Baltimore, MD - Sept. 27, 2024  -  With the approach of Rosh Hashana, when we partake of fresh fruits and other traditional foods, STAR-K reminds everyone about the need to check many of the items carefully prior to use.

Checking instructions for all Rosh Hashana Simanim are listed below.

For your convenience, we are also including information and links about Yoshon, as well as the Halachos of Fasting, Schach Guidance and Sukkos-related videos — basically all the information you need to prepare for the Yamim Tovim.

STAR-K wishes everyone a k'siva v'chasima tova and a sweet new year!

ROSH HASHANA SIMANIM CHECKING INSTRUCTIONS

APPLES/BEETS/CARROTS/POMEGRANATES: No checking required.

DATES*: Open a few dates in each container and visually inspect. If no insects can be seen, the rest may be eaten without further checking.

FIGS*: Open each one and check carefully for infestation (typically wasps, beetles or worms). NOTE: Figs are particularly difficult to check.

 * Checking instructions for dates and figs apply even if they have a hechsher, due to the possibility of improper storage.

GOLDEN RAISINS: 

Should not be used at this time due to infestation and the difficulty involved in checking them. (There is no concern with red (black) raisins or currants. Keep these properly sealed and store in a cool dry place, as improper storage can lead to infestation.)

BLACK-EYED PEAS:

Preparation

  • Dried peas should first be boiled in water. After they have been fully cooked, allow the peas to soak in the water for 2-3 hours. The peas will then swell and the peel will become translucent. Then check as instructed below. 
  • Canned or frozen peas may be checked straight out of the can/bag; there is no need to boil or soak.

Checking Instructions

  1. Inspect the peas for holes or dark-colored stains, as these may indicate an insect beneath the thin peel. 
  2. If there is a dark spot on the peel, remove the thin skin and check if there is a cavity with a bug in it.

NOTE: The black "eye" spot is not a sign of infestation. Similarly, orange-colored stains on the surface are not signs of infestation. Only dark or black stains are of concern.

LEEKS: 

Examine the outside for any leaf miner trails. Check in between the layers for thrips or other insects. 

SPINACH:

Check using the Thrip Cloth Method.

THRIP CLOTH METHOD:

  1. Wash the produce well. Fill a basin with warm water and a non-toxic dishwasher detergent so the water feels "slippery."
  2. Add produce to the basin and agitate vigorously in the solution for 15 seconds.
  3. Remove the produce from the basin and shake excess water over the basin. Set produce aside.
  4. Line a colander with a thrip cloth and pour the water through it.
  5. Place thrip cloth over a light box and check for insects.
  6. If insects are found, repeating steps 1-5. This can be repeated up to 3 times. If insects are still found on the third try, the produce should not be used.

GREEN CABBAGE:

For fresh cabbage: Separate all leaves and wash well. Then check using the Thrip Cloth Method.

For stuffed cabbage: After freezing the head, defrost and separate all leaves and wash them well. Then check using the Thrip Cloth Method.

For green cabbage only: If one does not have a thrip cloth, cabbage may be checked carefully leaf by leaf, using a lightbox or under a strong light.

HONEY: Pure honey does not need a hechsher (Clover, Wildflower, Blossom, Orange, etc., are types of honey, not flavors). Flavored honey needs a hechsher.

Click on any of the links below for downloadable PDFs and for additional Yom Tov-related information.

PDF of the Rosh Hashana Simanim Checking Guide

STAR-K Insect Checking Chart

PDF of What Do Bugs Look Like Chart

PDF of Baltimore Establishments Yoshon/Pas Yisroel Chart

STAR-K Yoshon Info & Yoshon Alert Sign-up

Kashrus Kurrents Article about the Halachos of Fasting

STAR-K Yamim Noraim & Sukkos Video Channel

5785 Schach Mat Guidance

PINNED
Scroll for more news
As the new year arrives, we often reflect on our blessings and challenges. For many Israeli families, the struggle to make ends meet and overcome financial difficulties is a daily reality. The question remains: Can we truly call it a "Happy New Year" if our neighbors and fellow citizens are struggling? At Paamonim, we believe in "The Responsible Way." We help Israeli families take control of their financial situations and regain stability. But we can't do it alone. This New Year, help us help others. Your donation can make a real difference in helping as many Israeli families as possible overcome their financial hardships. By donating to Paamonim, you're giving families the tools to succeed and create a better, brighter future. We need your donation. Together, we can make thi...
PINNED
Scroll for more news
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 6, 2024 - The Baltimore Esrog Center is proud to partner with Shearith Israel Congregation, the renowned Glen Avenue Shul in Baltimore. As a historic Orthodox synagogue with deep roots in Northwest Baltimore, Shearith Israel has long served as a beacon of tradition, guided over the years by esteemed leaders such as Rabbi Shimon Schwab and now Rabbi Yaakov Hopfer. This revered congregation, integral to the fabric of Baltimore's Jewish community, has played a key role in the establishment of the Baltimore Esrog Center. In collaboration with Shearith Israel, the Baltimore Esrog Center is dedicated to offering the finest Arbah Minim, upholding the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Our boutique is a celebration of heritage and excellence, and we are hon...
PINNED
Scroll for more news
As Yom Kippur approaches, the Frid family humbly stands before the community with a heartfelt plea for help.  Rochel Frid has been fighting a battle that no one should face alone. Her husband, a kind and loving father, is battling life with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a cruel disease that has robbed him of his ability to move, speak, and live independently. Despite the tremendous physical and emotional challenges, Rochel remains steadfast in her love and care. ALS is not only devastating because of its impact on health, but it also brings overwhelming financial burden. The cost of specialized equipment, full-time care and at-home medical treatments is immense, leaving Rochel struggling to keep her husband at home where he feels safe and loved, while at the same ti...
PINNED
Scroll for more news
Shomrei Emunah's Annual Sukkos Sale! Extraordinary Arba Minim!Lulav Holders!Support Shomrei’s Youth Department! Sale Hours: Thursday, October 10: 8:00PM – 10:30PM Friday, October 11: 9:00AM – 12:00PM Motzei Shabbos/Yom Kippur, October 12: 9:00PM – 11:00PM Sunday, October 13: 10:00AM – 10:00PM Monday & Tuesday, October 14-15: 9:00AM – 12:00PM & 7:00PM – 10:00PM Wednesday, Erev Sukkos, October 16: 9:00AM – 12:00PM Location:Shomrei Emunah6221 Greenspring Ave, 21209 For more information:Email: office@shomreiemunah.org
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 9, 2024  - BGE crews are headed to Florida to help with Hurricane Milton. 15 crews departed for Tampa on Wednesday morning to help repair damage expected from Hurricane Milton. “It can be sheer destruction when we get down there so we could be starting to rebuild electrical infrastructure," saidBryan lee, a lineman with BGE. "I mean we’re going to have Americans out of power, so our goal is to get them back in power as quickly as possible.” BGE is sending more than 40 employees, including lineworkers, fleet specialists, and other support personnel. "Staying safe, taking our time, and doing what we can do to get people back in service,” said Joe Braun, Overhead Supervisor for BGE. BGE previously sent more than 40 employees to Georgia fo...
Read More
PINNED
Scroll for more news
Baltimore, MD - Sept. 22, 2024 -  As always, Shabsi's Judaica looks forward to assisting you with all your Yom Tov needs. Click on the graphic below for a larger, printable version of Shabsi's Judaica Yom Tov season schedule!  
Joppa, MD - Oct. 9, 2024 - (FOX45) An all-electric 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning caught fire while charging outside a home in Joppa, MD, damaging the garage and two other vehicles. The owner sustained minor burns while trying to disconnect the charging vehicle. The fire spread to the garage but was contained before reaching the house, which sustained heat, smoke, and water damage. The family of four is displaced but is self-assisting. The fire originated from the vehicle's battery pack, and smoke alarms inside the home did not activate as the fire was outside.
Izzat al-Rishq, a member of the political bureau of Hamas, ruled out the possibility of an agreement with Israel under which the leadership of Hamas in the Gaza Strip will be deported to Sudan. "Deporting Hamas or its leaders from Gaza is an Israeli dream and illusion that will not come true," he stated. "The report in one of the enemy's newspapers regarding the deportation of Hamas leaders to Sudan is a stupid statement," al-Rishq said. "We said in the past and we repeat and say now, that Hamas is in Palestine, fighting the enemy that is occupying Palestine." He added that "logic requires that the criminal occupier leave and the original inhabitants of the land remain." The Hamas official’s comments follow a report on Reshet Bet radio which said that, in September...
Parsha Hashavua
Daily Dvar Halacha - Oct 9. Tishrei 7. Light The Havdalah Candle From An Existing Flame This Year After Yom Kippur?

Read More
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 9, 2024  - It is with regret that Baltimore Jewish Life  (BJL) informs the community of the petira of Mrs. Hindy Kaplan, a'h, daughter of Rabbi and Mrs. Menachem Dreyfuss. The Levaya took place this morning in Lakewood. Shiva will be observed at 120 14th Street Lakewood, NJ, 08701 through Erev Yom Kippur. Bila HaMaves LaNetzach…
SimchasSimchas Simcha
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 9, 2024 -  BJL wishes a hearty Mazel Tov to Uriel Arnson & Bina Stern on their engagement. Mazel Tov to Scott & Yaffa Arnson and Naftali & Chana Stern   יה"ר שיזכו לבנות בית נאמן בישראל. אמן!  
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant arrived today (Wednesday) for a visit with Unit 9900 of the Intelligence Corps, which gathers visual intelligence, and mentioned Israel's plans to retaliate for Iran's massive ballistic missile attack last week. He received an overview of the unit's activities for the preparation of the latest strikes in Lebanon, and commented on the level of preparedness for the expected attacks in the various theaters of the ongoing war. Gallant told the members of Unit 9900: "I have a lot of appreciation for what the unit and the entire formation are doing, which is very, very impressive. In fact, thanks to you, we see the entire Middle East - Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, Iraq and everywhere else, we see very precisely and clearly, very focused wherever we ...
Nichum AveilimNichum Aveilim Aveilim
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 9, 2024  - Maryland's top candidates for U.S. Senate, Larry Hogan (R) and Angela Alsobrooks (D), will meet in a Thursday televised debate. Hogan, Maryland's previous governor, trails Alsobrooks, the current Prince George's County executive, in the polls. The election could determine which party has the Senate majority. The race has focused on Hogan's abortion stance and Alsobrooks' recent tax mishap. The one-hour debate will likely address both matters. The debate airs statewide on Maryland Public Television this Thursday at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. MPT will also stream the debate at mpt.org/vote2024 at 7 p.m. The program will then air at 8 p.m. on: C-SPAN WBAL-TV and WBAL-AM in Baltimore WRC-TV in Washington, D.C. ...
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 9, 2024 - Effective Wednesday, October 9: Fitness Too and Karate Studio are now open. Please note, we will need to keep the door slightly open for ventilation as we wrap up the drying out process. Group Fitness Studio will remain closed. Some classes from this space will be moved to the Gymnasium on Thursday. For adjusted schedules for group fitness, visit jcc.org/schedules.
Job Listings Jobs
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 9, 2024 -  BJL wishes a hearty Mazel Tov to Mr. and Mrs. Naftali Langer on the birth of a daughter. Mazel Tov to grandparents Rabbi & Mrs. Eliezer Langer יה"ר שיזכו לגדל בתם לתורה, לחופה, ולמעשים טובים. אמן!
Baltimore, Md - Oct. 9, 2024 -12:04PM - The blue BMW involved in last month’s robberies in front of three shuls has been recovered, and arrests have been made. Appreciation goes out to the Baltimore Police Detectives who prioritized this case and worked closely with the community to hold those responsible accountable.
Classifieds Classifieds
With Sukkos fast approaching, many travelers have raised questions regarding the transport of Arba Minim. In response, Chaim V’Chessed reached out to the office of Israel’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Moshe Abutbul, to clarify the ministry’s current rules for passengers arriving at Ben Gurion Airport. Ministry officials explained that travelers are permitted to bring one esrog for personal use. However, the other three minim – lulav, hadassim, and aravos – are prohibited from being imported into Israel. Any such items found during inspections will be confiscated. To mitigate the inconvenience, the Agriculture Ministry has assured travelers that confiscated sets will be replaced with a new set of Arba Minim, free of charg...
Baltimore, MD - Oct. 9, 2024  - A Northwest Baltimore community said a summer's worth of concerns surrounding open-air drug markets have gone unanswered. Residents said it's been a lingering issue on Glengyle Avenue at Surrey Drive. Fox45 News captured images of the suspected open air drug market--young men doing business on the block.In the video, it shows a suspected drug dealer holding a bagged substance. Money is exchanged and the product then given to someone in a car. It's suspected open-air drug dealing caught on camera in May.The issue resurfaced again Tuesday with emails sent from residents to Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley and other city leaders asking for help. Their concerns carrying over from the summer to fall. Jacob, who concealed his ide...
Chesed Chesed
Baltimore, MD – Oct. 9, 2024  - BJL wishes a hearty Mazel Tov to Mr. and Mrs. Chanani Pheterson on the birth of  Triplet Sons Mazel Tov grandparents Rabbi and Mrs. Menachem Pheterson, Mrs. Rozzie Wax and Dr. and Mrs. Shmuel Wealcatch יה"ר שיזכו לגדל בנם לתורה, לחופה, ולמעשים טובים. אמן!
More articles