A Few Timely Comments

Here is the kiddush that DH used last Purim, in case any of you would like to use it. There may be a revised version by tomorrow.

(Halakhic note: It has been brought to my attention that Ha-gafen covers all beverages just as Ha-motsi covers all foods, so you do not have to -- indeed, should not -- make a separate blessing on the scotch.)

(Note on the note: If this doesn't mean anything to you, feel free to ingore it, or consult your local Rabbi :))

On a very different note, please note (no pun intended; I'm just tired) that today, Ta'anit Esther, is Agunah Awareness Day. An Agunah (pl. agunot) is a woman who has been abandoned by her husband but is unable to remarry because he has denied her a get (religious divorce). You can learn more about the problem and potential solutions here. A prayer for agunot from the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance can be found here.

To those who are fasting, I wish an easy and meaningful fast. To those celebrating Purim tonight and tomorrow, a chag sameach!

UPDATE: This year's kiddush for Purim can be found in DH's Live Journal.