Host Rabbi Zvi Goldberg and guest panelists Rabbi Zvi Holland, Rabbi Chananya Jacobson and Mr. Jonah Ottensoser will review the key issues any Shomer Shabbos should consider before deciding on an appliance purchase.

The discussion will include:

• Specific features consumers should be aware of before making the decision on which appliance to buy

• The impact that technological advances in new "smart" appliances is having on the Shomer Shabbos consumer

• A review of different cooktop options, including glass, gas and induction

• Pros and cons of buying an oven with and without a Sabbath Mode feature

• Issues arising from using a refrigerator on Shabbos, including lights, sensors and ice makers

• YOUR questions!

Rabbi Zvi Holland is Director of Special Projects at STAR-K. As the founding Rosh Kollel of the Phoenix Community Kollel, he and his wife were dedicated to promoting Torah study and building the community.

Rabbi Chananya Jacobson recently assumed a role as Kashrus Administrator for STAR-K Appliance certification, while also supporting STAR-K's operations in India and Southeast Asia. He frequently serves as a liaison between the STAR-K head office in Baltimore and its satellite offices overseas. He received his rabbinical ordination from Beth Medrash Govoha in Lakewood, NJ.

Mr. Jonah Ottensoser has a degree in mechanical engineering and enjoyed a decades-long career with the U.S. Navy. Over the course of the last 25 years, he singlehandedly revolutionized the adaptation of technologically advanced appliances to meet the needs of the Sabbath-observant consumer. He has helped dozens of companies to incorporate Sabbath Mode technologies into their products. Today, there are thousands of STAR-K certified appliances in the marketplace which bear his imprint.

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