panorama of halacha 6

The following issues are discussed by Rabbi Raskin in this week’s episode: Why, in the Alter Rebbe’s Nusach, do we say in Shmone Esrei: מחול לנו, whereas in most other Sidurim it is either מְחָל לָנוּ or מְחַל לָנוּ?[1] We have recently switched to ותן טל ומטר. Why is this dictated by the Civil Calendar? If lighting a Menora in a studio to be broadcast live on national media, may one recite the Brochos as normal? [2] Having lit Menora, I wish to light a large Menorah in front of the house. Do I make a brocho? Is Pomace olive oil equally acceptable for the Chanukah lights? [3] We place our Menorah in the doorway, facing the Mezuzah. Friday evening, once the flames are out, may the Menorah be moved out of the doorway? [4] Reuven is traveling during Chanukah and is unable to light Menorah en route. Is there value in Shimon lighting Reuven’s Menorah at Reuven’s house? [5] Gluten-free pancakes; do they have an issue of Pas Akum or Bishul Akum? [6] May cat litter be switched on Shabbos? [7] Making tea on Shabbos (כלי שלישי), is the coloration of the bag an issue? [8] Internal tiled floors with grout – is sweeping allowed on Shabbos? [9] A  child born bein hashmoshos between- let’s say – the 2nd and the 3rd of the month: is their birthday on the 2nd or the 3rd? [10] Revisiting the adding of water to wine.