2008 Campaign Challenge Heshvan/kislev/Tevet 5768 november/December 07 – th e G r e a t e r D e s M O i n e s $1,000,000 – 950,000 Jewish Press – Published as a Community Service by the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines online at jewishdesmoines.org • volume 24 number 2

900,000 Tifereth Israel Synagogue – C e l e b ra t e I srael at 60 Cantor Adds 850,000 hAPPY The Keshet Eilon Trio in Depth to – Hanukah Concert, November 12 Services From Israel’s world-renowned Keshet Eilon master vio- The superb voice one Begins on the evening 800,000 lin program comes two young virtuoso violinists, 1st hears from the bimah of December 4 prize winners in international competition, Semion at Tifereth Israel – Gavrikov and Hed Yaron-Meirson. A brilliant pianist, Synagogue these days is Julia Gurvitch, rounds out the ensemble. The trio that of the synagogue’s 750,000 will perform a program of Brahms, Shostakovich, newly appointed can- Massenet and Sarasate, 7:00 pm at The Caspe tor, Deborah Bletstein. – Terrace. As a special treat, the program will be intro- Cantor Bletstein earned 700,000 duced by Maestro Joseph Giunta, Music Director Cantor Deborah investiture and a and Conductor of the Des Moines Symphony. Bletstein Master’s in Sacred Music – Co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation and the from Jewish Theological Federation’s Partnership with Israel region, the Seminary in May and began work at the 650,000 Western Galilee. The program is free of charge. synagogue during the latter part of the sum- Semion Gavrikov, born in Ukraine in 1985, mer. In September, she conducted High – Senior News began playing the violin at age five under Igor Holiday services along with Rabbi Padorr. Kuzmienko. A laureate of the Odessa competition An article about both Rabbi Padorr and 600,000 this month… - page 2 (1994, 1996), he was 1st prize winner of the Young Cantor Bletstein recently appeared in the through Jewish Family Services, you helped to provide Virtuoso, Ukraine (1996, 1998), and New Names (1996). Moving to Israel in 1998, he Des Moines Register and was carried in the – studied at the Israel Conservatory of Music, Tel Aviv, with Lena Mazor and continues to Chicago Tribune, as well. case-management for 104 seniors by a licensed social worker and study with Irena Svetlova at the Buchmann-Mehta School of Music, Tel Aviv University. “We are all very excited to welcome 550,000 psychologist. We provide daily services that include: purchasing A laureate of the 2004 Rubin Academy Competition and 1st prize winner of the 2006 Cantor Bletstein on board,” said Dr. Marty Claremont Competition, Tel Aviv, Semion has been supported by the America-Israel Rosenfeld, the synagogue’s president. “The – medical equipment, visiting nurses, in-home health care, Cultural Foundation, Joshua Rabinovich Foundation, Buchmann-Heyman Foundation, skills and talents she brings have already 500,000 housekeeping services, nutritional services, medical supervision, daily Isaac Stern Foundation and Zfunot Tarbut. He is a graduate of the Jerusalem Music Center begun to enhance our worship services and phone calls, volunteer social interaction that includes transportation Young Musicians Unit, Perlman Music Program, and the Keshet Eilon Mastercourse, attend- we know that she will become very popular – ing masterclasses with Itzhak Perlman, Ivry Gitlis, Ida Haendel, Shlomo Mintz, Vadim in our congregation and in the community.” to doctors and for groceries, exercise, reading, social visits and Gluzman, Zakhar Bron and Pinhas Zukerman. He has appeared as a soloist with the Israel continued on page 9 450,000 outings. These services keep our senior community healthy, happy Philharmonic, Ukraine Philharmonic, and Moskovia Chamber Orchestra. Family Mission to Hed Yaron-Meirson, born in Israel in 1989, began violin studies at age four, instructed community – and independent in their own homes! by Sali Bokel, Mira Massin, David Chen, and currently by Hagai Shaham at the Jerusalem Hanukah Israel - page 3 Academy of Music. He was 1st prize winner in the 2005 Turjeman (Israel) and 2006 Janacek 400,000 (Vienna) competitions and laureate of the 2005 Israel Broadcasting Authority and 2006 Celebration, Jerusalem Academy competitions. He performed with the IBA and the Thelma Yellin High December 5 – imagine what we can School of the Arts orchestras. Appearances in concerts and festivals in Israel and Europe were Come enjoy the second night of Hanukah broadcast by Israel Radio and TV and by French and Austrian Radio. continued on page 15 with friends at The Jewish Federation 350,000 Community School’s Community do together next month! An Inter-religious Thanksgiving Hanukkah Celebration, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, – on Wednesday, December 5th. Join the Service, Nov. 18 community for dinner, crafts and games for 300,000 the kids, and a candlelighting program led The Jewish Community Relations Commission will partner with Faith Lutheran Church of by Cantor Deborah Bletstein and Cantorial – Clive in presenting the area’s first Inter-religious Thanksgiving Service, Sunday, November The 2008 AnnuAl CampaigN Soloist Laura Berkson. Dance to the tunes 250,000 18, 6:00 pm at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Members of all faith communities are invited of the Java Jews Klezmer Band. Location: – chaired by Neil Salowitz and Judy Deutch Jewish Federation to participate in the program, in thanksgiving for our religious freedom in America. The Tifereth Israel Synagogue. RSVP to JFCS Community service was constructed by Rabbi David Kaufman of Temple B’nai Jeshurun and Pastor so we can make enough latkes and sufganiot – The Jewish Federation offers a central coordinating body for the Jewish Community. Dave Nerdig of Faith Lutheran Church. For information contact Dorothea at the Jewish for everyone. Contact [email protected] or Of all of the roles the Federation plays, none is more important than providing an opportunity School - page 4 Federation at 277-6321 x 218 or [email protected]. Refreshments will be served. call 277-5566. 200,000 for you to care and join with others. Whether you are new in the community or a familiar face, – somewhere along the way the Federation will touch your life… We invite you to help build our Jewish community to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines Non-Profit Organization 150,000 Find out how to help by visiting www.jewishdesmoines.org. Make your tax-deductive gift on- [inside] 910 Polk Boulevard U.S. Postage line by clicking “Ways to Give.” Des Moines, IA 50312-2297 Paid – Des Moines, IA 6 Torah talk - Truth Permit No. 2506 100,000 Address Service Requested 7 Consolation, Justice and Healing October 1, 2007 – $54,220. 00 – 50,000 9 Save the environment – 13 Chef du Jour: Ron Rosenblatt Don’t forget, you can designate Jewish Family 0 Services when you donate to United Way! 18 Story of a Daughter of Zion

20 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 2-1 10/16/07 10:12:26 AM [history] Book from page 16 the Morris’ critique is worth reading in its entirety and is online at www.standwi- thus.com/pdfs/flyers/Response%20from Hanukah %20Benny%20Morris.pdf “Mearsheimer and Walt build their Hanukah is one of the few Jewish holidays not mentioned in the Bible. The detail when, where, and how the Hanukah lights should be lit. case mainly by means of omission: they tell story of how Hanukah came to be is contained in the books of 1 and 2 Completed approximately 600 years after the events of the certain facts while omitting others, some- Maccabees, which are not part of the Jewish canon of the Hebrew Bible. Maccabees, the Talmud contains the extant version of the famous [ ] times more apt and crucial. And occasion- These books tell the story of the Maccabees, a small band story of the miraculous jar of oil that burned for eight days. The calendar ally they distort facts and figures. of Jewish fighters who liberated the Land of Israel from the Talmud relates this story in the context of a discussion about the The thesis of their study, which was Syrian Greeks who occupied it. Under the reign of Antiochus IV fact that fasting and grieving are not allowed on Hanukah. In order november • december supported by the John F. Kennedy School Epiphanes, the Syrian Greeks sought to impose their Hellenistic to understand why the observance of Hanukah is so important, the of Government at Harvard University, culture, which many Jews found attractive. By 167 BCE, Antiochus Rabbis recount the story of the miraculous jar of oil. is that America’s support of Israel runs intensified his campaign by defiling the Temple in Jerusalem and Perhaps the Amoraim--the sages of the Talmud--were retelling Thursday, November 1 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace contrary to American national interests, banning Jewish practice. The Maccabees-- led by the five sons of the an old oral legend in order to associate the holiday with what they and that it is not grounded in “a compel- priest Mattathias-- especially Judah-- waged a three-year campaign believed to be a blatant, supernatural miracle. Although the seem- 7:00 pm JELI classes at The Life Center ling moral case.” To establish the latter that culminated in the cleaning and rededication of the Temple. ingly miraculous victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greeks contention, they deny that Israel is the Since they were unable to celebrate the holiday of Sukkot at was certainly part of the holiday narrative, this event still lies within Saturday, November 4 10:00 am James Steadham Bar Mitzvah in Ames weaker party in the Arab-Israeli conflict; its proper time in early autumn, the victorious Maccabees decided the natural human realm. The Rabbis may have felt this to be insuf- and that it is a democracy; and that Sunday, November 4 noon Tifereth Torah Fund Luncheon and Musical Program that Sukkot should be celebrated once they rededicated the Temple, ficient justification for the holiday’s gaining the legal stature that “Israel’s conduct has been morally supe- which they did on the 25th of the month of Kislev in the year 164 would prohibit fasting and include the saying of certain festival rior to [that of] its adversaries.” … Tuesday, November 6 6:30 pm The Impressionists & Glass Art Class at BCE. Since Sukkot lasts eight days, this became the time frame prayers. Therefore the story of a supernatural event centering on the In their introduction, Mearsheimer adopted for Hanukah. oil --a miracle --would unquestionably answer any concerns about The Caspe Terrace and Walt tell their readers that “the About 250 years after these events, the first-century Jewish the legitimacy of celebrating the holiday. facts recounted here are not in serious historian Flavius Josephus wrote his account of the origins of the Hanukah gained new meaning with the rise of Zionism. As the Thursday, November 8 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace dispute among scholars.... The evidence holiday. Josephus referred to the holiday as the Festival of Lights and early pioneers in Israel found themselves fighting to defend against on which they rest is not controversial.” not as Hanukah. Josephus seems to be connecting the newfound attacks, they began to connect with the ancient Jewish fighters who Saturday, November 10 10:00 am nathan Buchsbaum Bar Mitzvah at the Temple This is ludicrous. I would offer their liberty that resulted from the events with the image of light, and the stood their ground in the same place. The holiday of Hanukah, readers a contrary proposition: that the holiday is still often referred to by the title Josephus gave it. with its positive portrayal of the Jewish fighter, spoke to the reality Sunday, November 11 9:30 pm JFCS Book Fair & Kushkova program at the Temple “facts” presented by Mearsheimer and By the early rabbinic period about a century later--at the time that of the early Zionists who felt particularly connected to the message Walt suggest a fundamental ignorance of the Mishnah (the first compilation of oral rabbinic law included in the of freedom and liberty. Monday, November 12 7:00 pm keshet Eilon concert at The Caspe Terrace the history with which they deal, and that Talmud) was redacted--the holiday had become known by the name of Hanukah began to find new expression in the years leading up the “evidence” they deploy is so tenden- Hanukah (Dedication). However, the Mishnah does not give us any to the founding of the modern state of Israel. In the post-Holocaust Tuesday, November 13 6:30 pm The Impressionists & Glass Art Class at Caspe tious as to be evidence only of an acute details concerning the rules and customs associated with the holiday. world, Jews are acutely aware of the issues raised by Hanukah: bias. That is what will be not in serious It is in the Gemara (a commentary on the Mishnah) of the oppression, identity, religious freedom and expression, and the need Thursday, November 15 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace dispute among scholars. Babylonian Talmud that we are given more details and can clearly see to fight for national independence. Hanukah has developed into a –Benny Morris, a professor of Middle East his- the development of both the holiday and the stories associated with it. holiday rich with historical significance, physical and supernatural Saturday, November 17 9:00 am elisabeth Pusin Bat Mitzvah at Tifereth tory at Ben-Gurion University, is the author, The discussion of Hanukah is mentioned in Tractate Shabbat. Only miracle narratives, and a dialogue with Jewish history. most recently, of The Birth of the Palestinian three lines are devoted to the events of Hanukah while three pages Courtesy of www.myjewishlearning.com Sunday, November 18 6:00 pm interfaith Thanksgiving program at Tifereth Refugee Problem Revisited (Cambridge University Press). Monday, November 19 7:00 pm Federation Board of Directors at The Caspe Terrace On this topic, CAMERA.org updates links to articles and reviews. United Way Donors Jewish Family Services Tuesday, November 27 5:00 pm iJSLC Board Meeting Did you know that you can designate part senior news Saturday, December 1 10:00 am Paul DeShetler Bar Mitzvah at the Temple or all of your United Way contribution to Sunday, December 2 6:00 pm Zarnow 50th Anniversary Concert at Beth El Jacob Babysitters Jewish Family Services? Upcoming Wednesday, December 5 5:30 pm JFCS Community Hanukah Celebration Wanted Luncheons: by local Jewish families, The money received through these designations helps the Sunday, December 9 5:00 pm Tifereth Gala Hanukah Dinner Thursday, December 6th JR/SR High School age. Federation pay for... For more information call contact 12:00 Noon, at Temple B’nai Jeshurun Monday, December 17 7:00 pm Federation Executive Committee at the Federation Jewish Family Services - Individuals, families, seniors and children WHAT’S NEW FOR MEDICARE IN Lyanna Grund - 277-5566 Senior Adult Programs - Senior Adult luncheons and case management 2008- PART D AND MORE. The latest in- Saturday, December 22 7:00 pm grant Oxer Bar Mitzvah at the Temple Resettlement Program - Case management and health services to immigrants formation on Medicare drug coverage for 2008 and other changes to Medicare will Jewish Family Life Education be highlighted in a program offered by the Outreach - Baby baskets, welcoming newcomers PEER Advocate Program. A counselor, We all had a very eventful and wonder- Volunteer Opportunities - Numerous volunteer projects Gail Hutchinson, with the Senior Health Insurance Information Program(SHIIP) ful time at Prairie Meadows. Everyone Come see the difference between Tzedakah - last year assisted 180 community members in need will present the program. SHIIP will dis- enjoyed a free buffet lunch and partici- dressed and well-dressed... cuss changes to Medicare drug plans for pated in many activities such as the the next year, explain two types of plans live band music and dancing, playing Thank you offered, and share news about Medicare table games or enjoyed themselves at to all who have contributed through United Way. Please remember Part B premiums, deductibles and the slot machines. that your gift to Jewish Family Services through United co-payments. Way has to be re-designated each year. Thursday, January 10th 12:00 Noon at Tifereth Israel Synagogue We are looking forward to having Federa- tion President and storyteller, Neil Salow- itz, entertain us with his delightful talent. It Patronize our will be a fun and enjoyable time! Advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press. Seniors enjoy interacting with a volun- teer at a recent luncheon! outreach, activities and services [ To advertise in the Jewish Press, for independent seniors call us at 277-6321! ] The Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines is a beneficiary of United Way JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES

2 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 19

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 2-3 10/16/07 10:12:29 AM Iowa Jewish Historical Society Message from the President the greater des moines Friends– As I write this, it’s mid-October. The weather, which has been unseasonably warm, has suddenly turned cool and brisk. This morning, I put on my favorite sweater. It felt like a hug from an old friend. Jewish By the time you read this, it will be November or December. The days will be short and cold, the nights long. At this time of year, can there be a better holiday than Chanukah? The beauty of the lights in the chanukiah, the aroma of frying latkes, the laughter of children playing dreidel—what a great way to bring light and life to the chill of late autumn. Press Story of a Daughter of Zion Chanukah, of course, celebrates the military victory of a small band of Jewish zealots over a much larger and bet- Published 6 times annually by the ter-equipped Syrian-Greek army. It’s also a celebration of Jewish identity. Our ancestors chose to fight for their faith. Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines Written By Bernard C. Marks in February of 1980 Neil Salowitz They knew that the odds were against them, but were willing to die fighting rather than assimilate. They didn’t have under the auspices of the Jewish (Excerpted by Janice Rosenberg; IJHS President) President to think about their Jewish identity—they lived it. Community Relations Committee When I was a sophomore in college, my Psychology 101 professor gave the class an exercise to complete. Advisory Committee Born in Vilkija, Lithuania five days before Pesach in 1882, Dina many hoof beats pierced the darkness. She tried to run faster. Water He handed out a sheet of paper, on which was printed, twenty times, one under the other, the phrase, “I am ______.” Heidi Moskowitz, Chair* Mary Kwesky was the middle child of the five children of Kopple splashed everywhere. She clutched her throat; her collar was cutting He instructed us to quickly complete the twenty phrases, writing the first things that came to mind. The exercise was Gil Cranberg* and Baileh Kwesky. At the tender age of ten, Dina Mary was appren- into her neck. She gasped, struggling as she felt herself being lifted designed to make us think about how we see ourselves and all the roles we play in our interaction with others. Debbie Gitchell* ticed to a dressmaker, earning by some force above her. She The first few were easy: “I am a man.” “I am a student.” “I am hungry.” After that, however, it became more Harlan Hockenberg* but one ruble a week. was carried to the riverbank. difficult to define myself. By the eighteenth phrase, I was writing things like, “I am bored out of my skull in this class.” Sheldon Rabinowitz* When her father died and A Cossack horseman had pre- To my surprise, among the first things I wrote, however, was, “I am Jewish.” My Jewish identity had just begun to Mark S. Finkelstein,* Editor conditions became bad, she was vented her escape. reawaken after years of neglect. I was one of those kids whose Jewish education ended with Bar Mitzvah. For most of Thomas Wolff, Art/Marketing Director determined to find employment Dina Mary spent the night junior high and high school, my Jewish identity lay dormant. Thanks to a perceptive and caring campus rabbi (who as a seamstress in the United at the police headquarters and remains a friend to this day), I rediscovered who I was. *Editorial Board States. Eagerly, she accepted was sent home the next day. If you completed the exercise I’ve described, where would you place, “I am Jewish”? Would it be first or second, Neil Salowitz, the opportunity to live with Several weeks later, she right up there with, “I am a woman (or man),” “I am a resident of Des Moines,” or, “I am a tennis player?” Would it President, Jewish Federation and to help her ailing great aunt tried again with a new driver, be somewhere further down the list? Would it appear on the list at all? JCRC Chair Besheh Rubinovitch (Bessie and was successful. At Bremen, We live in a wonderful country, at a wonderful time. Overt anti-Semitism is rare in this country. The Gentile Robinson, 1833-1907), who was Germany she booked passage world no longer forces us to acknowledge our Jewish identity. Our employment, marriage and lifestyle choices are no Elaine Steinger, living in Des Moines, Iowa. on the USS Maryland and longer dictated by the outside world, or by the iron fist of tradition. Our choices are endless, and therein lies a trap. Executive Director, Jewish Federation Leaving Lithuania was embarked on a 12 day voyage, Today, we have to CHOOSE to be Jewish. Most of us are born Jewish, of course, but is that enough? Will an The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press not an easy matter. Dina Mary landing in New York City in the accident of birth sustain us as a community and as a people? 910 Polk Blvd. Des Moines, IA 50312 made two attempts. The first spring of 1899. It seems to me that in ‘07, if we’re to retain those characteristics that make us Jewish, it’s not sufficient merely to say that 515-277-6321 [email protected] was foiled by the agent hired to Shortly thereafter, on May we’re Jewish. We need to do the things that nurture our Jewish identify, things that remind us of who we are, and why. Opinions expressed in The Greater haul a group of emigrants to the 16, the second day of Shavuot, You’ve heard the old joke that if there are two Jews, there will be three opinions. There are as many opinions Des Moines Jewish Press are not neces- German border. Anticipating Dina Mary continued her jour- about halacha and Jewish practice as there are Jews in this community. Nonetheless, there are things on which we can sarily those of the Jewish Federation of a reward, no doubt, he had ney to Des Moines. On January all agree. Among these are the ideals embodied in Isaiah 58, the passage we read during our Yom Kippur fast: Greater Des Moines, its committees, or informed the local police. 15, 1900 she married her great “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the fetters of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the its staff. Unsigned editorials express the It was dusk when the horse- aunt’s son Louis Robinson oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are opinion of the paper’s Editorial Board. drawn wagon reached its des- (1875-1952). They made their cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him, and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” tination, a shallow point along home in a small room at the Paid advertising by candidates for elec- the river boundary. The wagon back of his hardware store and We are not Jewish by virtue of being compassionate, caring and generous. We are these things BECAUSE we tive office is welcome but does not con- halted and the anxious group began housekeeping with a table, are Jewish. Jews certainly don’t have a monopoly on compassion or generosity, but our sacred texts and our tradition stitute endorsement by agencies affiliat- was cautioned to descend qui- 2 chairs and a bed. elevate these concepts to the level of holiness. ed with the Jewish Federation of Greater etly and then to “RUN!!!” Dina Mary and Louis The Jewish Federation’s 2008 All-in-One Campaign is one way to express your Jewish ideals and identity. Des Moines. Inserts to the Jewish Press The men, Dinah Mary Robinson had three children: Throughout the year, you are solicited by a variety of charities. None, however, are as immediately beneficial to your may not necessarkly bear endorcement asserted, had no difficulty. This Jack Stanley (1902-1973), Rose Jewish community as a whole as the Federation’s Campaign. Though your gifts, you can have an immediate impact. of the Jewish Federation was not her case however, nor (b.1904) and Zisel (1914-1917). You give our children a Jewish education, you care for our elderly, you support and defend Israel and fight against the We are always happy to receive articles that of another woman who This story was written by Bernard resurgence of anti-Semitism in this country. But, as well, we should all be thinking about what we can do to build and contributions for consideration. was traveling with a young son. Marks who is the son of Rose a future for our people. Just imagine what we can do -- together – to ensure there will be a bright future for our We reserve the right to edit submissions In the time it took for them to Dina Mary Kwesky and Louis Robinson (aka Leib Rubinovitch) (Robinson) and Norman Marks. grandchildren and their children. for space considerations and clarity. climb down, the border guards at their wedding in Des Moines on January 15, 1900. Bernard was kind enough to You’ll be hearing more about our Campaign. You may be asked to volunteer some time to help with the fundrais- Vol. 24 No. 2, Nov/Dec 2007 stationed on a hill nearby were According to their grandson, Bernard C. Marks: Louis was 25; send photos and stories of the ing effort. I hope that you’ll answer the call of your Jewish heart and be generous with your time and your money. alerted to the activity below. Dina Mary 17. Trained as a seamstress in Kaunus, Lithuania, Kweskin Family from Lithuania As you kindle the Chanukah lights, think about what it means to YOU to be Jewish. Dina Mary lifted her skirt she made her wedding gown. It was of a light blue fabric to the Jewish Historical Society. May the light of the candles warm your heart during the cold days of December. and dashed into the cold water. and with white lace trimming. Her fan and veil were also Are there any more relatives in the Angry shouts and the sounds of white, and she wore a gold watch and chain. Des Moines area? B’Shalom, Neil festive and formal He will be missed, he will be remembered A Family Mission to invitations for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Slava Dukarsky Israel Set for June ‘08 weddings, graduations and other Slava Dukarsky, our dear friend… Death caught him when he was aboard the plane head- Be part of the excitement! Come celebrate special occasions ing to New York. He was going to meet his friend to celebrate the friend’s anniversary. It Israel’s 60th anniversary of independence • calligraphy services seems that fate has decreed otherwise… – in Israel – with friends and family, on a • professional assistance The news about Slava’s death was shocking and inconceivable. It is absolutely impossible special Mission prepared by the Jewish extraordinary gifts for family and friends to imagine him dead, he was so lively, energetic, athletic-looking, handsome, always Federation in conjunction with Amiel Tours. The ten day trip is scheduled to depart • baby boutique smiling. Open and outgoing, he was the heart of every company and a very welcome visitor in every Russian-Jewish home. Thursday, June 5th and return on Sunday, • wedding accessories June 15th. Subsidies will be available from Across the nation and • shower gifts Slava’s background is that of the most exceptional and brightest person: gold medal from high the Jewish Federation to qualified appli- around the world, celebra- school, diploma with honors from the Technical University, and a position of manager at one of cants. For more information, contact the tions are plannedFEDERA toTI comON- of Greater Des Moines the most prestigious scientific institutes in Moscow. A talented engineer and scientist, he was memorate Israel’s 60th Clocktower Square Federation at 277-6321 x 214 or e-mail to also intellectual and comprehensively educated. There is hardly a field of knowledge he wasn’t 2900 University Avenue [email protected] year of independence. In an expert on - science, literature, history, music, theatre, languages, to name just a few. West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 Central Iowa, the Jewish 515-223-6205 Slava was a devoted father and grandfather, and he was faithful to the memory of his late Federation invites you to wife whose burial urn he brought from Moscow. “She will be with me till my very last day,” join in the year-long cel- he said. Now, she is forever with him, as their urns are buried side by side. ebration – including con- certs, a film series, discus- Like a bright comet, Slava Dukarsky flashed out on Iowa’s firmament to make our life brighter, sions, a birthday party, and and vanished suddenly from sight. But not from our hearts where he will remain evermore. a family Mission to Israel Milla Verkhov-Karno, scheduled for June 08. On behalf of the Russian-Jewish community members The fun starts now!

18 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 3

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 18-19 10/16/07 10:09:06 AM [education] B’nai Mitzvah Website Highlights Music During the The Connection Jewish Federation Community School Elisabeth Pusin by Stephen P. Blend, M.H.A., Executive Director, an almost ineffable emotional outpouring Saturday, November 17 Holocaust Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center amongst those gathered around the almemar HANUKKAH BEYOND PRESENTS [From ORT, www.ortamerica.org] World Accompanying these musings is a photo- - in the presence of the Shechinah. From “Tastes of Jewish Tradition” page 76 Tifereth Israel ORT has launched the single most exten- graph of Sally Frank, her daughter Chava, To be with our residents and their When most kids think about Hanukah, they tend to envision gifts and gelt. It’s a challenge to sive online resource for researching music and myself. This picture was taken on Rosh families, during this season of renewal, retain the spiritual significance of the holiday that often gets lost in the abundance of gifts. Lana and Boris Pusin during, and associated with, the Holocaust. Hashanah, after Sally had led The Life is a truly moving experience. Far from a Creating an atmosphere of moderation while children are young is the key to getting are delighted to an- By clicking on http://holocaustmusic. Center’s divine service. feeling of seeing residents adrift from their back to the true meaning of Hanukah. As a family, you can start new traditions that are nounce that our daugh- ort.org internet users can learn about a This year, we had the largest atten- lifetimes of connection with their loved both fun and rejuvenating by replacing some of the material gifts with personal or spiritual ter Elisabeth will be called to the Torah as a barely explored aspect of the Shoah with dance, in recent memory, at our services. ones and their community, there persists a gifts. Every night of Hanukah can be devoted to a special project or activity that will initiate Bat Mitzvah. Please join us for the ceremo- interactive maps, authoritative articles by Residents, their families, and community strong sense of deep-memory and belonging some thought, feelings, and conversation in your family. ny and the celebration. some of the world’s leading experts, and members joined together to reflect on the - an enduring sense of Connection. Idea 1: The “Grateful” Menorah: When you light the hanukkiah, ask everyone at the A Kiddush luncheon will be served follow- – most evocatively – audio of 68 pieces of year past and to make a commitment to love We are very grateful to Sally (and table to share something they are grateful for. ing the Morning Service. music including songs written in the camps and compassion in the year to come. Chava), as well as to Mark Forman, who Idea 2: Hanukah Mitzvah Fairy: Draw names from a hat and be a secret pal for the next and sung by survivors. Audio includes previ- Recent years have seen dramatic chang- led our Yom Kippur observance, for ensur- three days. Do a favor, leave coupons or sweet notes, complete one of their chores, or leave ously unheard recordings made by the Jewish es in both the physical and cognitive status ing a continuity of religious observance a small treat for the person you picked. Mazel Tov Historical Commission, in Munich, 1946, of Life Center residents. Along with these which serves, at its core, to maintain that Idea 3: Phone a friend or a relative and as a family, sing one of your favorite Hanukah Brad and Tami Goldman announce of survivors singing songs from the camps remarkable changes, the inevitable question Connection which sustains, honors, and songs over the telephone, and then wish them a Happy Hanukah. the birth of their son, Samuel Cohen as well as those, also recorded in 1946, by arises as to the extent to which our residents enriches the lives of our residents. Idea 4: Potluck Hanukah Brunch: Invite some friends and/or family over for a Sunday Goldman, born on Aug 10. research psychologist Dr. David Boder, who are able to fully appreciate the religious lit- morning brunch. Assign a festive dish for everyone to bring. Have a treasure hunt for hid- Muriel and Ed Sheppard celebrated interviewed survivors as they disembarked in urgy. The simple answer is that, while there den gelt. Share Hanukah songs and stories. their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug 11. New York. might not always be a full appreciation of Idea 5: Bake and decorate Hanukah Cookies as a family project and bring some to some- the ebb-and-flow of the service, the power To Jerry Hadenfeldt, honored among one who doesn’t have many family members or friends nearby. of Connection is still much in evidence. a select group at the Friends of Iowa Civil Tifereth Israel Women’s League cordially Idea 6: Create-A-Coupon Potpourri: Use your imagination and design coupons for future During the Rosh Hashanah services, the Rights Awards Luncheon for Exceptional invites you to services for family and friends, i.e. free back or foot massage, bake cookies, wash dishes, signs of recognition amongst the residents of Service. Jerry is Vice-President of Gov- A VERY SPECIAL TORAH FUND brush the dog. a connection to past, more robust, lives were ernment Relations at Meredith Corporation. LUNCHEON Idea 7: Hanukah Joke and Talent Night: Share your talents. Put together skits and make almost palpable. There was a recognition of up Hanukah jokes. For example: What has four feet and plays dreidel? (Two children) Why Sunday, November 4, 2007 are some menorahs like old cars? (They both burn oil.) Share Your at noon in the Social Hall. Idea 8: “Zot Hanukah” (This is Hanukah): The eighth night is called the climax of the $15.00 per person C e l e b ra t e I srael at 60 festival. What would be a special tradition for your family to start on this night? Leave the Good News Babysitting available upon request Seeds of Sun to Perform Jan 19 most awesome gifts for last. How about candle-making, or a candle light dinner with all the Send a photo and/or announcement of Featuring: “KOL ISHAH” lights turned off in the house? graduations, anniversaries, births and Cantor Deborah Bletstein, accompanied forms 7:00 pm Saturday January 19th at The awards by Nov. 26, for publication in by Karen Hutzell, will perform a variety of Caspe Terrace as part of the series celebrating the Jan/Feb ‘08 edition. Send to: Jewish music including Cantorial Gems, Israel’s 60th anniversary. This Award win- ning and critically acclaimed ensemble has by local Jewish families, Press, 910 Polk Blvd, Des Moines, IA selections from the Yiddish Theater and Babysitters Wanted transformed old-school Israeli music into JR/SR High School age. For more information call contact Lyanna Grund - 277-5566 50312 or by e-mail to [email protected] Broadway Musicals. Jewish Federation Community School students celebrate Sukkot an exciting eclectic mix of Jazz-Fusion and Call Gwen Griger at 537-1454. Brazilian grooves with a world beat. Tickets Pay at the door. In Cedar Rapids A New York-based five piece band which are $5 for adults, free for children 13 and Dershowitz to Speak brings new perspectives on World Jazz through younger. For additional information, call the JFCS BOOK FAIR on Israel Nov. 8 In Memoriam Israeli and South American influences per- Federation at 277-6321 x 214 Fill Gaps in Coverage Choose from over 100 titles • Something for everyone! Noted author, Harvard professor Alan We note with sorrow the recent passing of Auschwitz Survivor Visits Camp Dodge Dershowitz will present a defense for Israel’s Omaha’s Institute for Holocaust Education ment. He was liberated at Brescia, Italy in Sun, Nov. 11 9:30 am - 1:30 pm right to exist in peace at 7:30 pm, Thursday, Svyatoslav Dukarskiy (IHE) enabled Mr. Sami Jalilov to April of 1945 by troops from Iowa. Left, Temple B’nai Jeshurun Social Hall Nov. 8, at Coe College, in Cedar Rapids. Rose Epstein attend a reunion of the 34th Infantry Mr. Jalilov with with Our Money – This event is co-sponsored by the Religion Division to express gratitude for his lib- JCRC Director Join us for an exciting preview of new books, old favorites, plus Rachel Leiserowitz and Philosophy Department of Coe College eration by American troops during WW II. Mark Finkelstein, toys and CD’s. Orders taken will arrive before Hanukah. along with the Temple Judah Foundation. Arnold Levine Mr. Jalilov, a member of the Red Army, and on behalf of If you are unable to attend but would like an order form, please Tickets are free to the public, available of the Islamic faith, was taken prisoner by the IHE and Not Yours contact: Lyanna Grund, Director, JFCS at 277-5566 or [email protected] Mary Rubin through the Sinclair Auditorium Box Office the Nazis, sent to Auschwitz and forced on the Jewish com- Anna N. Kushkova will lecture title Inter-Ethnic and Inter-Confessional Relations: at (319) 399-8600.. Harold Schwartz a forty-day death march to another encamp- munity. Offering of Matzoh. Anna has a PH.D. in History and works at the Petersburg Judaica Medicare doesn’t cover all your medical expenses. Center/Ethnology Department for the European University at St. Petersburg, Russia. You need comprehensive Medicare supplement insurance She will speak between 10:00 am and 11:30 am at the Temple. to help pay the bills it doesn’t cover. You deserve to keep your hard- Anna will take orders for a selection of books published by the Petersburg Judaica Center. freshness: /fresh/adj 1: is deter- earned equity in your home We are excited to have the opportunity for Anna to speak in our community. mined from the time the fish is out of the For your free rate quote and information about the water to the time it gets to your table...and benefits and limits, call: nobody gets it there faster than Waterfront LuGene Isleman capture lasting memories with Seafood Market Restaurant • Wholesale • Licensed Real Estate Agent Steven Jay Frederick, President/A Life for Giving 515-229-2243 – Cell 666 Grand Avenue, 18th Floor-Suite 1818 a gift that lasts forever... 3220 100th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 HONOR YOUR GRANDPARENTS Urbandale, IA 50322 WEDDINGS Waterfront Seafood E-mail: 515-245-LIFE(5433) cell: 515-556-3750 [email protected] BIRTHDAYS Market • Restaurant Website: BIRTHS Wholesale dsm.nextgenerationrealty.com BAR / BAT MITZVAHS LuGene: CELEBRATE YOUR CHILDREN - Newcomer Agent of REMEMBER YOUR LOVED ONES the Year in 2005 “One person cannot plant a forest, Neither American Republic not our agents are affiliated with Medicare, Social Security or any other - #2 Agent in 2006 government agency. Rates based on attained age (except in AZ, GA and MO). but a community can plant a forest one tree at a time.” - $4,990 to sell any Clocktower Square priced home © 2006 American Republic Insurance Company, National Headquarters, Des Moines, IA 50309 Purchase a tree certificate – a gift that lasts forever. 2900 University Avenue Guarding your Real Estate Equity Policy Form Series: A-3146, A3161-62, A4027-30, A-4080m A-3404 et al. In MO, A-3403 et al. Jewish Federation Community School - 924 Polk Boulevard - Des Moines, IA 50312 West Des Moines, IA 50266 Not all policies available in all states. For $36, a tree certificate will be mailed to the recipient. Your $36 goes towards the 515-223-5106 Your Success is My Success! z-1099 purchase of trees, care and maintenance.

4 American The Republic Greater ad.indd Des Moines 1 Jewish Press 10/3/07 9:00:00 AM november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 17

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 4-5 10/16/07 10:12:35 AM Jewish Community Relations Commission Project Elijah Book by Mearsheimer and Walt Contending Jewish/pro-Israel Grand Opening of Project Elijah Manipulation of America Deemed “Malignant, Dishonest” Kosher Meal Packaging Facility A Letter from Janice Rosenberg, Project Elijah Foundation There has been controversy flowing from the First, they have argued that the “Israeli “[Other than for some relatively minor on the Israelis. … Yet one learns this recent publication of The Israel Lobby and U.S. government and pro-Israel groups” have changes] the book remains true to the agenda only at the end of The Israel Lobby. The Project Elijah Foundation is really rolling along! Thank you to Foreign Policy, by university professors John J. shaped President Bush’s “grand scheme for malignant and dishonest spirit of the[ir] …In their original-sin perspective, there has everyone who sent in your very generous contributions during our Mearsheimer and Stephen M. Walt. (Farrar reordering the Middle East.” … This argu- article. It represents the most sustained been no tangled spiral of causes and effects; Yom Kippur 2007 Appeal. If you have not yet contributed, there is still a Straus Giroux. 484 pp. $26) The authors ment is debatable. But it is at least as likely attack, the most mainstream attack, against only Israel’s actions and policies have desta- need and we will welcome your gifts. contend that “the Israel lobby” has manipulated as Walt and Mearsheimer’s naive belief that the political enfranchisement of American bilized the Middle East. …” Hopefully as this article reaches you, we will have opened our Project Congress, the media, and American administra- “the U.S. has a terrorism problem in good Jews since the era of Father Coughlin… – Samuel Freedman, October 7, 2007, Elijah Foundation Food Packaging Operation in West Des Moines. tions into supporting Israel against the interests part because it is so closely allied with Israel” The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Washington Post. http://www.washingtonpost. We will share this facility with other like-minded groups in the Des Moines of the United States. -- the equivalent of arguing that Britain had Policy is a book of continuous astonish- com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/10/04/ Community to package nutritious meals to send to starving children and their families in A variety of book reviews and other articles a Nazi problem in the 1930s because it was ments. Each chapter contains assertions of AR2007100402101.html?referrer=emailarticle Des Moines and in many parts of the world. The Project Elijah Foundation Kosher Meals have appeared which take Mearsheimer and so closely allied with Czechoslovakia. Jewish misbehavior, or criminality. The his- “ [T]he sheer recklessness of your analy- will be sent to Ieladeinu, a Jewish Orphanage and Care Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina Walt to task for their shoddy scholarship and for Walt and Mearsheimer are careful to tory of the Arab- Israeli conflict recounted sis is, in my view, bound to make progress that cares for over 250 Jewish children who are the victims of abuse, neglect and poverty. playing on the most sinister Jewish stereotypes. say they are not anti-Semitic or conspiracy- here is comically one-sided, even by the towards a two-state solution more difficult. Watch your Synagogue and Temple bulletins, the Jewish Press and your mail boxes for our Excerpts from a number of reviews are pro- minded. But their main inference -- that standards of Israel’s revisionist historians. The controversy that has surrounded your “Grand Opening Event!” vided below, so that readers can get a generalized Israel, the Israel lobby and Jewish neo- In Mearsheimer and Walt’s telling, Israel is earlier paper and now the book will do What exactly will we be doing at the Project Elijah Foundation Kosher Meal packaging facil- view of the matter. It is recommended conservatives called the shots for Bush, perpetually the aggressor; it has never made a little to elevate the discussion and debate; it ity? We will be packing highly nutritious kosher meals to send to hungry Jewish children that readers follow-up by examining the Cheney, Condoleezza Rice, Stephen Hadley, serious move toward peace and compromise; will, because your work is so tendentiously and their families. These meals will consist of enriched soy, rice, dehydrated vegetables, critiques in their entirety. The evaluation by Colin Powell and Donald Rumsfeld -- is and its existence has never been threatened argued, put those within the Jewish com- and a vitamin/mineral flavoring mix. We will be packaging these meals in several produc- historian Benny Morris, referenced below, is of not only rubbish, it is dangerous rub- by the Arabs, who are portrayed as out- munity who actively advocate a two-state tion lines with 12 people per line, measuring and scooping the ingredients into the bags. particular importance. bish. As “mainstream” scholars, Walt and numbered, out-funded, and under-armed solution on the defensive lest their advocacy The bags will be sealed and boxed to send to Buenos Aires to be distributed there. Any questions or requests for further infor- Mearsheimer cannot avoid the historical victims of Zionist aggression. The Israel of seems to put them in league with you… mation on this topic may be directed to jcrc@ pedigree of this kind of charge. Every gen- Mearsheimer and Walt is simply unrecog- Methodologically, the book is a mess, Our formula for the meals has been evaluated and approved by the Iowa State University dmjfed.org eration has seen accusations that Jews have nizable to anyone who is halfway fair and adding unconnected little truths to one Food Science and Human Nutrition Department. These meals have a 3 year shelf life. To “Last year, Stephen Walt of Harvard dual loyalties, promote war and secretly halfway learned about the Middle East.” another as if together they constitute one prepare these meals, one only needs to add boiling water. The meals cost around 25 cents and John Mearsheimer of the University control political structures. – Jeffrey Goldberg, October 8, 2007 in The New big truth; relying far too heavily on second- and that includes shipping. Rabbi Yossi Jacobson of the Judaic Resource Center will be in of Chicago published a paper accusing These academics may not follow their Republic http://www.tnr.com/doc.mhtml?i=200 ary sources such as newspaper clippings charge of the Kosher certification of our meals. the “Israel Lobby” of having “unmatched claims all the way to anti-Semitism. But 71008&s=goldberg100807 and OpEd columns; riddled with internal In other news, the Project Elijah Foundation recieved a $4000 Discretionary Grant power” and managing to “manipulate the this is the way it begins. This is the way it I would have no such problems with contradiction.” presented to Alan Zuckert by Dr. Eric Schockman, the President of Mazon: A Jewish Re- American political system” into actions always begins. Mearsheimer and Walt had they openly – Leonard Fein, http://peacenowconversation. sponse to Hunger to Ieladeinu for the purchase of food. I know the children and the staff that undermine U.S. interests. . . Accusations – Michael Gerson, September 21, 2007 written the prescriptive book that hides org/?p=87 posted Sept. 27, 2007 were very glad to receive that gift. He has expressed interest in our Project Elijah Founda- of disproportionate Jewish influence are Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost. within this putatively dispassionate one. A substantive, historically-referenced tion meal packets and we are excited to introduce him to our program. as old as the pharaohs. The novelty here com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/20/ They want the United States to tilt toward criticism of Mearsheimer and Walt’s 2006 See you in the kosher food packing lines! is the endorsement of respected, main- AR2007092001959.html?hpid%3Dopinionsbox the Palestinians in the Middle East conflict academic paper was issued by Benny Morris stream academics … 1&sub=AR and to impose a geopolitical compromise in May 2006. continued on page 19 Janice Rosenberg, Project Elijah Foundation, Executive Director 1515 Linden Street Suite 205, Des Moines, Iowa 50309-3131 (515) 246-8001

f o r u p - t o - d a t e c o m m u n i t y s c h e d u l i n g jewishdesmoines.org

CONNECT WITH THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER DES MOINES

16 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 5

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 16-17 10/16/07 10:08:58 AM Trio from page 1 Hed has attended mas- It is easy for us to imagine the debauchery of position as a palliative care social worker patient who wandered away from a fam- Torah Talk terclasses with Itzhak Rashkovsky, Ida the ancient times…we can envision Sodom for Iowa Health Homecare. Because of her ily gathering. Although a suburban police Haendel, Miriam Fried, Arnold Steinhard and Gomorrah; we can even apply to our severe pulmonary illness, they must choose department had been notified of a missing Truth by David Friedgood and Julian Rachlin. He has been supported times a sense of lost moral boundaries and whether to eat or have the medications that person bearing this description, when the by the America-Israel Cultural, the Ronen, other modern transgressions. But I truly can allow this patient to breathe. gentleman was brought to the station, the As I write this piece pleased and congratulatory, I new there was Where did Eve come from? Rabbinical and the Buchmann-Heyman Foundations. wonder how often we take stock of our own So today we come, in all of our human- police—not recognizing that he was the miss- Yom Kippur has passed. room for improvement. My Bubbe, on the scholars have argued about these and many An alumnus of the Keshet Eilon lives and ask ourselves if we are doing our ness, before our merciful God who loves ing person—asked that this man—who was In the Synagogue we other hand, made me feel perfect. However other Biblical inconsistencies for millennia. Mastercourse, he plays a violin owned by prophetic best. us. We come in large numbers today to wearing one shoe—be returned to the area are ready to return to meager my accomplishment, it was the best In 1656 Baruch Spinoza was excommuni- the late violinist and composer Baruch This last Thursday evening, Sandra and confess our sins, to pray for forgiveness and where he was found. Only the action of a the beginning, B’reshit in her eyes - never equaled in the history of cated by a Rabbinical court in Amsterdam Liftman, donated to the Keshet Eilon loan I had the tremendous pleasure of welcoming to resolve to do better. Each of us fails on compassionate and persistent citizen empow- (Genesis). Our cycle mankind. When she scolded or corrected for daring to question Biblical literal truth. program by his family. to our class the Reverend Carmen Lampe a daily basis to be the person that we desire ered the resolution of this sad story. My hope of Torah readings has my frequent transgressions, I sensed, even Rambam (Rabbi Moses Maimonides - 12th Julia Gurvitch, Russian-born pianist, Zeitler who is the Director of Children and to be…and yet, fundamentally, I believe that for myself this year, is that I can be a bit more been handed down through generations of at an early age, the chastisements of love. century) details how these Bible statements graduated from the Gnesin Music Academy Family Urban Ministries. Carmen is one we are good, that we are created in the beau- alert to the simple needs of others; to be a bit Jews for over 2000 years. As our ancestors (Even perfection could be better.) So, what and other stories are designed for us, with in Moscow. She was a soloist and an accom- of our annual speakers and we begin our tiful image of our God. And therefore, we more patient, a bit less busy; that I can be and did, we start each fall season (on Simchat does my childhood experience with different our limited human understanding, so that panist with the Moscow Philharmonic for semester with her lecture on the people can continue on this earthly journey, every speak the prophesy: do justice, act with love Torah) with our story of creation; having parenting methods have to do with ultimate we can get a glimpse of that which is beyond 11 years. Gurvitch performs extensively in who come every day to share the breakfast day reaching out a little bit farther, being a and mercy and walk humbly with my God. just completed reading the books of Moses truth? Let me explain with some examples: comprehension. They are to be understood Israel and abroad, and is presently a faculty and dinner, the mentoring and the relation- bit more loving, caring a little more. That I can do what is mine to do. That I can (the first five books of the Bible) ending In the first chapter of Genesis God allegorically, not literally. The Bible teaches member of the Buchmann-Mehta School of ship that is nurtured in the confines of When I consider what it is that I be, and know, that I am enough. This is my with the story of Moses’ death. It is an says: “Let us make man in our image, after us lessons, not literal facts. Music, Tel Aviv University. She has been a their agency on 8th St. between College believe our God is calling us to do today, hope for all of us at this New Year. endless circle of reading, kept alive by Jews our likeness... And God created man in My mother would have me learn my pianist at Keshet Eilon since the inception and Clark, in what is known as the “inner I think of the following: We need not be In the words of poet, Judy Chicago: the world over. These Torah readings are His image.” (Genesis 1:26-27). Are we to Bible lessons and report the story details of the project. city” of Des Moines. She comes to talk to the one person who develops the cure for And then all that has divided us will merge the centerpiece of our Shabbat and holiday assume then that each of us human beings specifically. In response to my questions For information about our Partnership our students about poverty: about the real- cancer; we need not be the contributor of And then compassion will be wedded to power service. In the ancient words, carefully looks like God? Or, does God have a form I can see her demeanor change ever so with Israel, view www.jewishdesmoines.org. ity that the people that her agency serves millions of dollars to rebuild New Orleans. And then softness will come to a world that is transcribed by the hands of pious scribes, and substance (face, nose, limbs) so that slightly and I know it is time to be quiet Journey from page 7 are not indigent people who choose not What we can do to change lives is merely to harsh and unkind is ultimate truth - or so we are taught. But He looks like us? No. This would dimin- and stay on task. She would not care for The words of the Prophets come to to work. They are immigrants who have perform the random acts of loving kindness And then both men and women will be gentle what is truth? How are we to understand ish God, subtracting from his all-inclusive my deviating off course and taking side us from the periods in our history when, left homes and families in other countries, that present themselves each day. We can And then both women and men will be strong the message rolled up in the yellowed parch- uniqueness. Our God is One. We think trips which lead to silly questions and clearly, we have turned against our God, pri- seeking sustenance for their children and phone or email our legislators to ask them And then no person will be subject to another’s will ment scrolls of Torah? of our creator as the mystics do - as Ein Sof which distract my attention. Bubbe, on marily by turning from each other. From fleeing violence. They are women and chil- to fund the soon to be abolished healthcare And then all will be rich and free and varied This time of year I reflect on my fam- (without end). He has no form and cannot the other hand, smiles. With her gaze she the Prophets of the Assyrian exilic period dren who have fallen into poverty through bill that insures millions of uninsured And then the greed of some will give way to the ily, now departed, whose influence still be contained or defined in our language. pats my head and I know that I please her. we hear: Isaiah chap. 10: and Amos chap. divorce and abuse. They are men who are children in our country; we can speak for needs of many drives my view and belief. My mother, His magnificence is not in any way like my Every question is wonderful. Every nuance 4: and Micah chap. 3: educated and willing to work, but suffer our brothers and sisters in Israel by simply And then all will share equally in the Earth’s though having passed some 30 years ago, image. Another example occurs in the end and innovative way of looking at Biblical Over and over, throughout the from devastating mental illness. They are attending an AIPAC gathering to support abundance is still alive in my thoughts. I still won- of the same verse. “Male and female He cre- text is good. There is not one path to truth. prophetic stories, we hear of simple people two-parent families who cannot pay rent and learn. But most importantly, we can And then all will care for the sick and the weak der how she would perceive my actions. ated them” (Genesis 1:27). Man and woman In fact there are infinite directions to take. Happy is the man who finds wisdom, who are called by God and respond with and struggle to access transportation to ask ourselves, on this Day of Atonement, and the old She was a loving, tough-minded woman who, were created together, as equals. Chapter 2 I do not know where the end of my travels The man who attains understanding.... trepidation and sometimes significant hesi- work because the bus lines do not service “WHAT IS MINE TO DO?” We can, if And then all will nourish the young despite her many responsibilities, always contains the better-known version of cre- are, but know that each deviation brings Her ways and pleasant ways, tation. The Prophets proclaim what God their area of town. These are families who, nothing else, find some small way to bring And then will cherish life’s creatures made sure her oldest child (me) knew what ation where woman is formed from Adam’s me closer. What is the final objective? And all her paths, peaceful. has done, in the merciful deliverance of the when the weekly childcare bill is paid, find hope, comfort or peace to one person. And And then all will live in harmony with one was expected. I, on the other hand, was less rib (though Rabbi Kushner has her formed Who knows? Truth is not reached by She is a tree of life to those who grasp her, Israelites from slavery only to witness their that there is not enough left over to buy that is enough. We are enough. another and the Earth than perfect and always sensed that I did at his side). So what are we to believe? completing this journey. It is the trip that And whoever holds on to her is happy. contemporaries enslaved again by self-cen- food. They are the husband and wife who This last week, we read in the newspaper And then everywhere will be called Eden not fully measure up. Even when she was What is the truth? Do we look like God? is filled with wonder. (Proverbs 3:13, 17-18) teredness and a hunger for power and gain. I visited this week in their home, in my about the story of a 61 year old Alzheimer’s once again.

the miracle of light

Wishing a Happy Hanukah To All

Hanukah is a festival celebrating the miracle of light. Miraculously, a single day’s supply of consecrated oil continued to flame for eight days.

This year, Gail and I celebrated Hanukah on July 30. Miraculously, it was on that day that we experienced the miracle of life. Along with that precious gift, we received early gifts in the form of your prayers and best wishes; gifts which we will remember forever. How long the flame in my heart will continue to glow is beyond my power to control, but there is not a morning or night that I do not give thanks to God for the gift given to me.

May the flame in your hearts continue to glow in health and well being, and may you always appreciate the miracle of life.

With all our love and thanks,

Gail and Stan Richards

6 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 15

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 6-7 10/16/07 10:12:37 AM Partnership with Israel (P2K) Perspective on Judaism Leadership Course to be A Journey to Consolation, Justice and Healing Offered in the Western Galilee By Barbara Hirsch-Giller Delivered on Yom Kippur at the Alternative Service at Tifereth Israel Synagogue Each Fall, for the past four years, my While I clearly do not face the reality as anti-Jewish discourse, a mood and tone reports of the incidents that led up to this Twenty Israeli participants attended a institutions – people with an orientation dear friend and colleague, Sandra McGee and daily grind of racial discrimination, whenever Jews are discussed, whether in racial conflict, have essentially deleted an preliminary meeting about the leadership toward, and experience in, the fields of and I stand before a classroom filled with because “we” can generally “pass” for white, the media, at universities, among the liberal important fact of the story: the genesis of the course to be held by the Partnership in the leadership, management, entrepreneurship students enrolled in the Master of Social all we need to do is read our email or look media elite or at dinner parties of modish confrontation began with the beating of an coming year. and development. Work Program for the University of Iowa. in the paper. The worldwide Jewish popu- London. To express any support for Israel or African American student who mistakenly Israeli Partnership chairman Rami Raz The course will consist of ten sessions We are both veterans of Polk County Crisis lation has not faced the type of ferocious any feeling for the right of a Jewish state to sat under what was understood by the white along with Education and Community Task and will address a variety of issues relevant and Advocacy Services; we each bring to anti-Semitism that now exists since the exist produces denunciation, even contempt.” students at the school, as the “white tree.” Force chairpersons Dalia Feirman and Avi to the training of future Partnership lead- the classroom a lifetime of challenges and early Twentieth Century. I read from an And in our country, from an article in The next day nooses hung from the tree and Hatchuel, welcomed the participants and ers, such as: decision making, time manage- radically different but similar experiences; article published in the Washington Post on the New York Post: the specter of the lynching years rose again. shared with them their personal perspec- ment, leadership, marketing and public rela- we are challenged to coach a class of 30 or September 4, 2007; the column was written November 12, 2006 – “The number of While the white students were suspended tives on the project. tions, entrepreneurship, communication, more students to become culturally com- by British journalist, Denis MacShane: hate crimes in the city is up almost 8 per- from school, the African American students, At the meeting the participants learned managerial skills, volunteer activity, the petent social workers. Sandra is African “Hatred of Jews has reached new cent from last year, with attacks on Jews and one in particular, faced felony charges that about the project’s objectives and the unique Jewish world and its organizations. American; I am an eclectic Jew. We teach heights in Europe and many points south gays spiking the most, according to NYPD would have demanded years in prison. model on which Partnership 2000-Western Most of the course sessions will be in the diversity component for the MSW pro- and east of the old continent. Last year I stats. The number of crimes against Jews And the bottom-line is that Sandra and Galilee operates. the form of workshops of several hours’ gram: the class is entitled Discrimination, chaired a blue-ribbon committee of British surged 28 percent, to 95 from 74. Anti-gay I share a history and we are bound at the The goal of the course is to expand duration; there will also be a two-day Oppression and Diversity. parliamentarians, including former minis- crimes jumped 20 percent, to 47 from 39. soul level by the trauma of economic need the circle of Partnership 2000 activities sleepover study trip to Jerusalem, and the Sandra and I both grew up in families ters and a party leader, who examined the There were 42 crimes against gays in all of and hatred against our communities. So on by increasing the number of individuals possibility exists of an additional study trip who struggled everyday to make the dollar problem of anti-Semitism in Britain. None 2004 and 44 in all of 2005.” Thursday evenings from 5-8 p.m., we stand actively involved in the Israeli side of P2K. to the Jewish Partnership communities in cover daily necessities; we both learned by of us are Jewish or active in the unending The latest Federal Bureau of Investigation before our students and share life and expe- In conducting this program, P2K is hoping the United States. the example of our parents that compassion debates on the Israeli-Palestinian question. statistics for Crime in the United States rience and pray that, in some small way, we Join us in experiencing the great Italian tradition to develop a new cadre of individuals com- Participants will be expected to attend and respect for all human life would be the Our report showed a pattern of fear deals with hate crimes concerning religion will assist each other in developing small handed down and still very much alive today, mitted to the partnership idea, its goals and all of the course sessions, to submit indi- guiding principle by which we lived. We among a small number of British citizens and the breakdown looks like this: but mighty prophetic voices. Our students its modes of operation – people capable of vidual projects, and to play an active role in both grew up understanding that the world -- there are around 300,000 Jews in Britain, Bias Incidents Victims teach us and we teach them. a festive and joyous occasion for eating out. joining the existing Task Forces and evolv- partnership activities for a period of at least did not necessarily love us: Sandra lived of whom about a third are observant -- that Anti-Jewish 954 1,076 In order to utilize our religion, our ing into the partnership’s future generation two years. through the Civil Rights movement of the is not acceptable in a modern democracy. Anti-Islamic 156 201 faith, as a vehicle toward becoming our own Your hosts Bob and Amy Tursi of leaders. Organizers of the project will be con- sixties and while she is the first member of Synagogues attacked. Jewish schoolboys Sixty nine percent of the hate crimes brand of prophet, a catalyst toward Tikkun The participants included energetic ducting candidate interviews soon. her family to graduate from college (and is jostled on public transportation. Rabbis are directed against Jews, 11 percent Olam, we might begin within our Hebrew individuals from Akko, Mateh Asher To become involved with the Des completing her doctoral dissertation as we punched and knifed. British Jews feeling against Muslims. Facts that truly shock the Scriptures. Both Torah readings for today, and the region’s organizations, as well as Moines/Israel Partnership, contact 277- speak), she is still followed through stores compelled to raise millions to provide pri- general public. (from Leviticus and Numbers) establish an employees of the Partnership 2000 partner 6321 x 214. by clerks who suspect that she will pocket vate security for their weddings and com- Sandra’s community has witnessed ancient foundation for the atoning/healing an item and walk out of the store; the munity events. On campuses, militant anti- ghosts from the last three hundred years rituals that we celebrate today. We concep- 2200 Hubbell Avenue • Des Moines, Iowa 50317 [world] trauma of a high school guidance counselor Jewish students fueled by Islamist or far-left haunt the southern U.S. again this week, as tualize the ritual in these readings, but it is telling her that she was really only suited hate seeking to prevent Jewish students six young men are charged with attempted to the Prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures Phone: (515) 266-4466 for domestic work lurks in her memory, to from expressing their opinions. murder for an attack on a white youth in that we turn for a deep understanding of Iranian Opposition Group attack her self esteem periodically. More worrisome was what we described Jena, Louisiana. Most interestingly, our news the why of atonement. continued on page 15 Claims Iran Building Secret Underground Nuclear Facility

By VOA News 27 September 2007 An Iranian President Mahmoud Iranian opposition group says the Iranian Ahmadinejad said in his United Nations government is building a secret under- speech on Tuesday that Tehran’s nuclear ground military nuclear facility near its program is peaceful and transparent. existing complex at Natanz in the central France said Thursday it does not believe part of the country. him. The spokesman for President Nicolas The opposition National Council of Sarkozy said Paris has some very strong Resistance of Iran made the assertion at a clues indicating that Iran’s nuclear program news conference in Paris. The claim cannot also has military goals. be independently verified, and the group The National Council of Resistance did not provide any evidence. of Iran is the political arm of the People’s The group said its information came Mujahedin of Iran, which the United States from sources within Iran, and indicates that and European Union consider to be a ter- the underground facility is five kilometers rorist group. from the Natanz complex and will be opera- The group five years ago disclosed tional in six months. information about two hidden nuclear The United States and its allies accuse sites, including the one at Natanz, helping Tehran of trying to build a nuclear weapon uncover Iran’s nuclear program. However, and want to impose tougher international the group has made other claims in the past sanctions against Iran. that have not been verified.

Dog from page 10 (Mek., Mishpaim, 20, ing. So he hastened to eat it all up and fell on Ex. xxii. 30). Especially noteworthy is down dead, having thus saved his masters’ the fact that the story of the faithful dog lives. In gratitude, the shepherds reverently which Dunlop (“History of Prose Fiction,” buried the faithful dog, and erected a monu- ch. vii.; see Index, s.v. “Gellert”) and Benfey ment to him which is still called “The Dog’s (“Panchatantra,” 1859, i. 482) have traced Monument.” The Jewish belief was that the through the various literatures of the East howling of dogs betokened the presence and the West, is found for the first time in of the angel of death, or death itself in the Yer. Ter. viii. 46a and Pesich. x. 79b as one vicinity (compare Wuttke, “Der Deutsche of R. Meïr’s fables used as a haggadic illustra- Volksaberglaube,” 1869, §268); their cheer- tion of Prov. xvi. 7. Some shepherds had cur- ful (sportful) barking the presence of the dled milk for a meal, when in their absence prophet Elijah—that is, some joyful event a serpent ate of it and thus (as was the belief) (B. 60b). “If one goes out to select a wife instilled poison into it. The dog, which had for himself and hears the barking of dogs, witnessed the act, began to bark when his he may divine in their voices an omen of masters, on their return, proceeded to eat it; good or of evil” (Gen. R. lix.; the reading, but they would not heed his voice of warn- however, is doubtful).

14 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 7

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 14-15 10/16/07 10:08:53 AM [in profile:] [chef du jour] In the Kitchen With Ron’s friend Steve Physioc, now a well The Rosenblatts took a family vaca- I had the privilege of dining on this Michael Sachs known personality in the sports-casting tion to Australia in August and plan recipe of Old English Prime Rib at the Ron arena, did the evening sports report for to visit Scotland soon. Next is New Rosenblatt home. It’s divine to eat and was From lessons with Ziggy Elman at age six to first chair in the Cleveland Orchestra the local TV station where a very cute Susy York for Thanksgiving and then skiing such fun to watch Ron crack the meat out He has performed under the greats, including to the fall open house at her elementary That’s how I ended up getting a History and flexibility. I do about a 45 minute warm- Rosenblatt Robinette also worked. So Susy’s and Ron’s in Utah in December. of its hard salt crust. Ron does the cooking Leonard Bernstein, Sir Georg Solti, and Pierre school. Music in our school system was degree from UCLA. I was about 19 or 20 up routine of fundamentals at the start of by Karen Engman first date was a “fix-up” and they attended a Ron won’t be idle since he’s formed in the Rosenblatt/Robinette household and Boulez and continues to impress critics with his very strong. The elementary school band before I was certain I wanted to try to make every day. From there I typically will do any- Kansas State football game. a partnership with a longtime friend of this is a tasty recipe that’s perfect for the “magisterial gifts,” “spectacular chops” – refer- played, and a kid got up and played a my living playing professionally, and I only where from an hour to three hours of prac- The rest is history because they now 50 years from New York to sell Lifetime winter months. I think it would be great ring to the strength and agility of his playing trumpet solo. (“Never on a Sunday,” I think really buckled down and focused solely on tice (the latter broken up into two hour and a have two lovely daughters, Betsy, a junior Settlement Insurance. His clients will be paired with potato latkes for Chanukah! – and his “radiant tone.” Recognized interna- it was.) I thought it was the most amaz- my trumpet playing when I got to New York, half sessions, usually). On a heavy concert at the University of Pennsylvania and 65-85 years old and he explained it to me The JEWISH PRESS thanks Ron for tionally as a leading soloist, recitalist, chamber ing thing I’d ever heard and immediately at age 21, to study at the Juilliard School. or rehearsal day I’ll do a warm-up and that’s Katherine, a freshman at Tufts University. as the business of treating insurance as an sharing this recipe with our readers. If you musician, teacher, author and clinician, Michael begged my parents for lessons. There was JP: Time out, for a moment, while I pres- all. At the end of every day I also do a cool In the past, Ron has served as the trea- asset. He would also like to return to teach- have a recipe to share, call (515-274-3300) or Sachs is principal trumpet in the world-class only one catch: I had no front teeth at the ent some additional biographical information down, not unlike a runner stretching at the surer for the Jewish Federation board and is ing at one of the local colleges. email ([email protected]). Cleveland Orchestra. It is a position he has held time, so I had to wait two years for them to about you, Mr. Sachs. Prior to joining the end of a taxing run. Conditioning is very currently on the finance since 1988. His artistry may be heard on more come in. At that point my mom took me Cleveland Orchestra, you were a member of important as I need to be strong yet remain committee for Planned than 125 compositions recorded by the Cleveland to the local music store where she heard the Houston Symphony Orchestra and taught fresh and flexible. Each week the repertoire Parenthood of Iowa. Old English Prime Rib Orchestra and on other recordings. there was a terrific teacher. It turned out at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice changes so my needs physically change as Golf and skiing A Recipe from Ron Rosenblatt Meat Despite all his accomplishments, Michael that it was the famous big band trumpeter University. Another interesting tidbit about well. I need to stay in a shape that can allow are his favorite sports. Sachs remains one of the most down to earth, easy- Ziggy Elman – and Mr. Elman became you is that John Williams (composer of the me to flow with my schedule and not ever He was a caddy in high Minced garlic from the bottle or fresh to-chat-with people one would hope to find. my first teacher. [Elman is famous for his music for Star Wars and an eminent conductor) feel too tired or beat up at any point. school but didn’t start 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Jewish Press: Mr. Sachs, we’re delighted to hot klezmer solo on “As the Angles Sing,” wrote his “Concerto for Trumpet” for you, as JP: You noted that in your youth you playing golf until he was 1 tsp paprika have you with us. Tell us a bit about the recorded with Benny Goodman. –ed.] commissioned by the Cleveland Orchestra. listened to the recordings of the NBC Ron Rosenblatt was born in 1947 in New York 25. Now he can play all musical environment you grew up in? JP: How easily did you take to playing? That was in 1996. You are the author of two Symphony and later, presumably, record- City. He grew up in Scarsdale, Westchester he wants since they live Salt and lots of pepper to taste Michael Sachs: Thank you for having MS: Getting my embouchure [muscles texts, “Daily Fundamentals of the Trumpet” ings of other great orchestras. Were you County, NY with four brothers and a sister. As a on Glen Oaks golf course Choice prime or standing rib roast me. We lived in Santa Monica, California. around the mouth] set up from the beginning and “Mahler: Symphonic Work, Complete very attentive to who, particularly, occupied high school freshman, he tutored sophomore Liza in West Des Moines. Ron (1/2 lb per serving) My mother loved playing piano, especially and making a sound on the trumpet seemed Trumpet Parts.” And I might mention that you the first chairs on these recordings? Minnelli in biology. Ron said Ms. Minnelli was says “it’s like heaven.” Ice cream salt music of Beethoven, Chopin, and Brahms, very natural for me. While the physical serve as the Head of the Trumpet Department MS: Yes, I quickly became aware of very sweet and served him home baked cookies but They have the requisite and also loved listening to the recordings aspects of playing came together well for and Chairman of the Brass Division at the the tremendous trumpet players in those he didn’t realize until years later that she was the golf cart which makes of Toscannini and the NBC Symphony me over the years, I was always extremely Cleveland Institute of Music. orchestras. Players like Harry Glantz very famous singer, Judy Garland’s, daughter. it easy for the girls to – and anything with Leonard Bernstein. So diligent with my practicing and routine. After Mr. Sachs, who is the most communi- of the NBC Symphony, Bud Herseth of He attended Columbia University, get up to the pool dur- Combine Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic, salt and pepper; rub into meat. Line heavy music was a large part of my earlier years all these years, I still work very hard at cative conductor you have played under? the Chicago Symphony, Tom Stevens of where he majored in art history and minored ing the warm summer roasting pan with foil; cover bottom of roaster with layer of ice cream salt. Dampen salt lightly around my house. My father, however, was improving my playing and musicianship. MS: Probably Pierre Boulez would be the the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Armando in economics during his undergrad years and months. They ski in Park with water until just moist. Place roast on salt in standing rib position. Cover roast completely not musical at all. He ran an advertising JP: Did you know early on that you wanted “clearest.” He uses an economy of motion Ghitalla and Roger Voisin of the Boston then earned a masters degree in economics. City, Utah and now that with ice cream salt; repeat dampening procedure. Do not cover. agency focusing on children’s toys. to play professionally? and doesn’t necessarily say that much, but Symphony, and Phil Smith and William Ron taught history, social studies and eco- Ron has recently retired Bake in preheated 500 degree oven for 12-20 minutes per pound, depending on degree of JP: How did you get interested in the MS: Well, both my parents, while very sup- his hands communicate everything needed. Vacchiano of the New York Philharmonic nomics at George Washington High School from American Home doneness desired. Remove from oven. Crack salt with mallet; pull salt sections away from trumpet? portive of my trumpet playing, felt I would Christoph von Dohnanyi (musical director dur- were all great role models for me. Then before receiving his PhD in economics from Mortgage, he’ll have more meat. Brush all salt particles from roast. Place roast on serving platter; cut into serving portions. MS: Funny story. I have a sister a year be best served to get a broader education ing my first fourteen years with the Cleveland over the years I was very fortunate to meet the University of Idaho. He then taught for time for playing golf, ski- older than me. When I was four, I went in college and not get a music degree. Orchestra) always had strong musical ideas and spend quite a bit of time with all but one eight years at Kansas State University. ing and traveling. and a clear view of the end goals he wanted. of them, Mr. Glantz. He was terrific to work for. The same can JP: Having studied the styles and sound be said for my current boss, Franz Welser- ideals of the trumpeters of the past genera- Moest, as well as other favorite conductors tion, do you detect a difference in today’s I’ve had the pleasure to work with, includ- sound ideal? ing Georg Solti, Leonard Bernstein, John MS: That’s hard to say. There are definitely Williams, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Robert Shaw, subtle changes in how most trumpeters Michael Tilson Thomas, Seiji Ozawa, and play now as compared to 50 years ago. Kurt Masur. All of these conductors brought Back then most of these players were immi- a particular energy and vision that made grants and sons and daughters of immi- playing for them exciting and inspiring. grants. Their stylistic concepts were much JP: Boulez conducts Stravinsky; a 1996 record- more rooted in European culture while ing with the Cleveland Orchestra features now most players in American orchestras you among the seven solo ensemble musi- are American born and trained with a dif- cians on “The Soldier’s Tale.” This is a very ferent perspective. This evolution is also colorful and rhythmic piece that readers due to today’s almost unlimited access to might obtain to get a flavor of your playing. recordings. Fifty years ago you played in What impressed you about that recording an orchestra and were much more iso- session with Mr. Boulez? lated from other styles of playing, so many MS: Any time I’ve had the chance to work performers developed their own unique with Mr. Boulez has been a tremendous approach. With recordings and technical honor for me. He is one of the most bril- information becoming increasingly avail- liant and nicest persons I have ever met. able, there is now a much more homoge- Especially on a piece like “L’Histoire,” which neous stylistic approach, as compared to because it’s only involving seven players is back then. That said, just like everyone’s so intimate, it really gave us all a chance DNA is distinctive, so every player has his to get a clear window into his concepts or her own particular style and tastes. of the piece. Mr. Boulez has an uncanny JP: One final question. Would you share Premiums shown are for Term 10 Plus, a renewable term life insurance policy that guarantees the premium to remain level for 10 years from the Policy Date. The premiums quoted are based on the age of the insured at nearest birthday and specified underwit- way of choosing perfect tempos and (with with us one anecdote about being Jewish? ing classification and are subject to change without notice. Premiums for issued policies may be different than the premiums A b a c o va s e shown based upon actual underwriting classification. Generally, in the absence of fraud, after an amount of insurance has been his conducting mannerisms) the ability to MS: Sure. I had my Bar Mitzvah in my in effect for two years during your lifetime, we cannot contest that amount due to a false statement made in the application. In just feed your line to you in a way that you backyard. A good friend of the family was by salviati the event of death during the first two policy years by suicide or self destruction while insane, only the premiums paid will he returned as death proceeds. FlexTerm Series policies (Form 92-TR-1 and any state variations) are underwritten and issued by can’t help but sound good. [Readers can studying to be a rabbi and we just decided Ohio National Life Assurance Corporation, Cincinnati, Ohio. Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuer. access excerpts of this recording online by to have me study with him for a couple of Product, product features and rider availability vary by state. Company not licensed to conduct business and products not distrib- uted in AK, HI and NY. Form 2942 Rev. 6-07 googling “Boulez” “L’Histoire”] years at home and then put a tent up and

NOT A DEPOSIT NOT FDIC INSURED NOT GUARANTEED BY ANY BANK JP: How much practice do you put in to do it that way. I had a wonderful time and MAY LOSE VALUE NOT INSURED BY ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY keep your skills finely honed? because of this setup, I was involved in MS: How much I practice can vary depend- many parts of the service. Really a terrific For more information, please call ing on my rehearsal- or concert- schedule education for me… Steven Jay Frederick, President/A Life for Giving and the demands of those services. I try JP: Thank you so much for the interview. It 666 Grand Avenue, 18th Floor-Suite 1818 to approach playing trumpet much like an is a pleasure to introduce you to readers. Best 400 East Locust Street #3 400 East Locust Street #4 Des Moines, Iowa 50309 athlete – the lip is like any other muscle in wishes for continued success, Mr. Sachs. East Village • DM East Village • DM 515-245-LIFE(5433) cell: 515-556-3750 the body and needs training both for strength MS: Thank you. 515-284-8882 515-284-8877

8 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 13

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 8-9 10/16/07 10:04:37 AM [people] commentary Cantor from page 1 Originally from West Bloomfield, MI, Bletstein received her Bachelor’s in Music Debbie Gitchell Joins ICRC Jews Must Do More To Save Environment with distinction from Ohio Northern Debbie Gitchell, of tee. There are twenty-six cities within Iowa By Rabbi Steve Gutow energy independence and global warming address our current energy demands. University in 1992. In addition to perform- Ames, past president that have such committees, and they form As the energy crisis and the ominous reality are equally important in the long run and Investments in the use of these fuels ing with both the opera and musical theatre of both the Jewish part of Iowa’s League of Human Right of global warming loom larger in the public’s deserving of the same level of attention. are investments this country must make. departments, she created the position of Federation and JCRC, Agencies, which solicits guidance on issues mind, there is little doubt the United States While our tradition may not favor a par- At home, in our synagogues and in lead singer for both of the ONU Jazz Bands, has been appointed from the ICRC. must immediately engage this issue head on. ticular policy, it is hardly silent. Deuteronomy our communities we can take substantive which had historically never appeared with to a six year term A second, important task of the ICRC Fortunately the solution to both concerns explicitly forbids destroying fruit-bearing actions by reducing our energy footprint, a vocalist. This led to an opportunity to on the Iowa Civil is to craft and work on a legislative agenda. require the same shifting of policies, the same trees when attacking a city. The verses ask the making smart consumer choices, driving open for Marvin Hamlisch at The Veteran’s Rights Commission. Among the agenda items of the agency are courageous actions and the same discipline. question: “Are the trees of the field human to less and exchanging inefficient light bulbs Memorial Convention Center in Lima, She becomes one sexual orientation and gender equity issues Carbon emissions that are destroying withdraw before you into the besieged city?” for efficient CFL bulbs. As activists, you can Ohio. She went on to earn her Master’s of seven commissioners on the state as pertain, for example, to employment, the earth of our children and grandchildren, Our tradition understands that trees are not make a difference by holding events, and of Music from Carnegie-Mellon University agency headed by Ralph Rosenberg housing, extension of credit and education. and a world dependent on tyrants such as able to act in their own self-defense and need calling and writing your senators, congress- in Pittsburgh, where she majored in classi- (Executive Director) and chaired by Alicia It was largely due to the ICRC’s efforts Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, even more protection than humans. The men and other elected officials to tell them cal voice. While at CMU, she performed Claypool of Des Moines. The Commission that a bill protecting civil rights Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and Torah and the Talmud say that Jews are not that you believe America deserves a smart, leading roles in opera and musical theatre meets bi-monthly, usually at the Grimes regardless of sexual orientation went Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir are not allowed to destroy or waste anything. comprehensive energy policy. productions, and received rave reviews for Building at the Capitol Complex where the through the state legislature and was signed realities in which Jews can safely relax. Unfortunately, this fundamental rab- We are in a battle for survival. Our her portrayal of Golde in Fiddler on the Roof. ICRC is housed. into law by the governor. The Jewish community, which has binic mandate of “not destroying anything,” physical world, our immediate and future A member of Actor’s Equity Association, she Debbie offers the following about the This year, ICRC hopes to bring to pub- a particular stake in this race because known rabbinically as “bal taschkit,” is not security, even the air we breathe are at great has appeared on the summer stock stages of work of the Commission: lic attention the time limit established with- of Israel’s vulnerability to enemy nations well known. It should be. In Psalms the risk. We are a people who from our history The New London Barn Playhouse and The The primary task of the ICRC is to in which one can file a claim with ICRC. whose power is derived from the flow of Lord says that the Earth “is the Lord’s and understand the need to engage. Energy con- Hampton Playhouse, as well as Theatreworks field and process complaints brought to At present the law provides an Iowan 180 petrodollars, must do more. everything that is in it.” As Jews, action in servation and reducing greenhouse emissions USA in New York and Walt Disney World’s it by Iowans. ICRC’s case work consists days to file a claim of discrimination. ICRC Recently I sat with a group of senators in the world is a basic fabric of our theology and are not luxuries for those who just want to MGM Studios in Orlando. of processing complaints of unfair or dis- would like to ask the state legislature to Washington and presented concerns of the the most important proof of faith in God. see a “better world,” they are necessities and In 2002, Cantor Bletstein began her criminatory practices in employment, public increase the filing period to 300 days. Jewish community about energy and the envi- Indeed, to be silent and dormant flies in the an obligation we have to the world. After all, studies at H.L. Miller Cantorial School at accommodation, education, housing, and In addition to its duties above, the ronment. Among the leaders on hand from face of the fundamental nature of Judaism. the Earth is really not ours; it is the Lord’s the Jewish Theological Seminary, in New financial lending. Complaints are based Commission also holds workshops to Jewish organizations were David Harris of the From a holistic standpoint there are two and it should not be wasted or destroyed. York City. She spent her second year of on race, national origin, color, sex (gender), explain issues and attends various human American Jewish Committee and Howard sides of the energy equation: We can use less Discipline, innovation and investment the program studying at The Conservative sexual orientation, gender identity, disabil- rights events occurring around the state. Kohr of AIPAC. Harris made a presentation oil and we must increase production of power will not wait for the next decade or even the Yeshiva in Jerusalem as well as ulpan at ity, retaliation, religion, age, familial status, To members of the Jewish community, on Israel; Kohr presented on Iran. from existing renewable sources. We must next year -- they are needed now. Buckminister Hebrew University. Bletstein has served as and marital status. In addition, the ICRC Debbie adds the following: “It is important The senators clearly saw climate and reduce our bloated energy consumption by Fuller, a sage though not a Talmudic one, guest hazzan and speaker at numerous con- is concerned with immigration issues, in for members of our community to know energy policy as a paramount concern of tapping into the strength of our disciplined stated: “If the success or failure of this planet, gregations throughout the US, and is sought relation to human rights, ensuring employer that religion is one of the areas in which the day, and the responsible question is if tradition and being more cognizant of what and of human beings, depended on how I after as a concert artist for her abilities to compliance with the National Disability individuals are protected by law against our community is paying enough attention we consume. We must open our minds to the am and what I do, how would I be? What seamlessly cross over genres of opera, musi- Act, protection of rights through hate crimes discrimination.” She advises those with to these issues. Sadly, it is not. continuing dialogue of new and innovative would I do?” cal theatre, classical hazzanut, contemporary legislation, federal pay discrimination issues, a prospective complaint to consult with The Jewish community is right to make solutions. We must also seek out alterna- It is our call. Jewish music, jazz, pop and folk stylings. Her and combating predatory lending practices. either ICRC or the human rights com- Israel’s safety and thwarting Iran’s pur- tive sources of energy such as wind power, Rabbi Steve Gutow is the executive director of writing is published in the inaugural issue of As an intake agency, complaints of mission in their city, if one resides in Des suit of nuclear weapons top priorities, but solar power, bio-fuels and geothermal heat to the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. CJ: Voices of Conservative/Masorti Judaism. discrimination may be filed with the ICRC Moines or Ames. by calling 1-800-457-4416. The process Debbie, was on the Ames Human for filing a complaint goes from intake, Rights Commission for about six years jurisdictional review, screening, mediation, and served as its chair for a few years. “I’ve investigation, cause decision to the decision always had a passion for civil rights,” she to proceed to a public hearing, a proposed said. “I’m honored to have been select- decision, commission decision, to possible ed to serve the people of our state on District Court review or an Appellate Court the Commission.” review if necessary. The goal is to have the With her wide experience, dedication, process completed in 90 days. sound judgment, and sense of voluntarism, Of course, human rights complaints Debbie has set a high standard for others to may alternately be directed to a city’s follow in improving the quality of life for human rights or human relations commit- all Iowans. European Day of Jewish Culture BRUSSELS (EJP)---On September 2, Europe tours as well as special views of their archi- celebrated Jewish culture during the 8th tecture and a number of arts events taking annual European Day of Jewish Culture, a place across the country. day that this year took place in 30 countries In Manchester, the Jewish Museum fea- to discover the cultural and historical heri- tured personal and taped testimonies from tage of Judaism. Jews talking about life in the Cheetham Hill Thanks to open doors, circuits, exhi- area while in London’s West End, the West bitions, lectures and concerts, the wider London Synagogue held a special concert. public is invited to get to know Klezmer In Leeds, the annual Jewish arts festival music, contemporary art, theatre and to starts on Sept. 2 and runs until Sept. 6. visit synagogues, old cemeteries, ritual baths In France, from 2 to 9 Sept. a series and ancient Jewish quarters. of conferences and visits of museums fea- The chosen theme for this year, tured the life of personalities of the Jewish “Testimonies”, enabled communities to community, daily life, architecture, Jewish highlight the imprints which have been left heritage and its integration in the national by the Jews everywhere they have lived. culture. Several cities, such as Paris and In Austria, Belgium, Bosnia- Strasbourg emphasized Jewish cooking Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech traditions.(www.jecj-france.org). Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Over 10,000 volunteers and institu- Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, tional persons participated in organizing the Luxembourg, Macedonia, Norway, Poland, events: Jewish associations, tourist boards, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, municipalities, museums, artists, students. Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Last year, the day attracted more than 2843 Ingersoll Avenue • 274-4004 Turkey, Ukraine and United Kingdom. 125,000 visitors in 30 countries. In the UK, synagogues built in the Courtesy of the European Jewish Press, at www. 18th and 19th century presented guided ejpress.org

12 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 9

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 12-13 10/16/07 10:04:46 AM Jewish Encyclopedia of 1906 [health] Israel’s Nutrinia brings the magic of mother’s milk to baby formula By Sharon Kanon for Israel 21 C to the benefits of mother’s milk - specifi- and usually destroyed in formulas. We devel- “It shows the importance of oral insu- DOG In the first 24 hours of life, a nursing cally the massive amounts of natural insulin oped a new technology to keep the insulin lin for babies, especially during the critical By: Solomon Schechter and Kaufmann Kohler probably unknown. retaining his food in the stomach for three mentioned as dangerous to handle (Gen. baby gets a big zing of power from its moth- found in mother’s nectar. bioactive. We also have a usage patent.” first four months,” said Devir, a physician The dog referred to in the Bible is the —In Rabbinical Literature: days (Shab. 154b; Beah 21a). At times, R. lxxvii.), as is also a young dog (‘Er. 86a). er’s milk. “This is a mother’s first gift to The result of that alarm is InsuMeal, a InsuMeal is comprised of a mixture of with extensive experience in management semi-savage species seen throughout the East, Two different dogs are mentioned: the however, he eats his excrement (B. 92b). A mad dog is so dangerous that he may be her child,” says Professor Naim Shehadeh, bioactive insulin protein that can be added insulin, vitamin C and maltodextrin, a carbo- and biotech investment. held in contempt for its fierce, unsympathetic ordinary dog and the small Cyprian (not, The excrement of dogs is used for tanning killed even on Sabbath (Shab. 121b). Rabies head of the Pediatric Diabetes Clinic at to commercial infant formulas to make them hydrate derived from starch. Nutrinia’s tech- “We reached the conclusion that if habits, and not yet recognized for his nobler as commonly explained, “the farmers’ dog.” (Ber. 25a; Ket. 77a). The barking of dogs at is the effect of an evil spirit or of witchcraft; the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, closer to mother’s milk. InsuMeal is the first nology micro-encapsulates the mixture (so that insulin is so high in human milk, and qualities as the faithful companion of man. The former species resembles the wolf; the midnight (Ber. 3a) gives people a feeling of and its signs are: the dog keeps the mouth describing the nutrients and vitamins that product to emerge from Nutrinia, the company it stays bioactive) and creates a powder. It can important for the gut, then it should be He is used chiefly by shepherds or farmers to latter the fox; and the crossing of these safety, wherefore the rule is given: “Dwell open; his saliva is constantly flowing; his mother’s milk provides the newborn. Shehadeh founded together with Dr. Sharon then be added to any commercial formula. given to bottle-fed babies as a nutritional watch their sheep or their houses and tents, is forbidden as “kilayim” (mixture of spe- not in a town where no barking of dogs is ears hang down; his tail lies closely upon Especially insulin. Devir CEO of New Generation Technologies Other leading manufacturers have intro- supplement,” added Shehadeh. and to warn them by his loud barking of any cies; Kil. i. 6; compare Aristotle, “Historia heard” (Pes. 113a). “A dog in a strange city his loins; he walks on the sideways of the “Insulin is 100 times more concen- (NGT), and Maabarot Products Ltd., whose duced probiotic supplements to formulas The next step is the launch of a major possible danger (Job xxx. 1; Isa. lvi. 10). He Animalium,” viii. 27, 8, where the one will not bark, and it takes him seven years street, and does not bark (Yoma 83b). The trated in the first milk a mother gives her subsidiary is Materna Laboratories, the lead- since 2002. Bioactive fatty acids were the first clinical study, with 100 pre-term and full-term lives in the streets, where he acts as scavenger, species of dogs is declared to be a crossing to feel at home” (‘Er. 61a). cure for hydrophobia is the eating of a part baby than in the blood. Nature must have ing manufacturer and marketer of Materna supplement product added to commercial babies, which is expected to begin this fall, feeding on animal flesh unfit for man, and of dogs and wolves, and the other [the The Keeping of Dogs. of the dog’s diaphragm (Yoma viii. 6; see a reason for enriching the first milk and infant formula (Israel’s largest manufacturer formulas. But Nutrinia’s InsuMeal is the first with the approval of the Hospital Helsinki often devouring even human bodies (Ex. xxii. Laconian] a crossing of dogs and foxes). The dog is the most shameless of Folk-Medicine). helping the newborn get over the shock of of baby formula). Nutrinia began as a startup bioactive insulin supplement, and Nutrinia’s Committee. The babies will be recruited by 31; I Kings xiv. 11, xvi. 4, xxi. 23; II Kings While the ordinary dog is counted by R. animals (Ex. R. xlii.); he was one of those The Faithful Dog. the first 24 hours,” explains Shehadeh, who project at NGT, a government-backed incuba- first product in a range of bioactive protein Professor Nehama Linder and her staff at the ix. 10, 36; Jer. xv. 3). At night he wanders Meïr among domestic animals (“behemah”), who would not abstain from cohabitation In the course of time a certain affection specializes in pediatrics and endocrinology, tor in Nazareth. supplement products designed to bring infant Beilinson Medical Center in Tel Aviv. in troops from place to place, filling the air the Cyprian dog is declared to be a wild ani- in the Ark (Gen. R. xxxvii.). The Mishnah for the dog seems to have been developed and is also on the faculty of the Technion Giving a big impetus to the need for formula closer to mother’s milk. “We believe that InsuMeal is a vital with the noise of his barking (Ps. lix. 7-14; mal (“chayyah”; Yer. Kil. 27a). In the dusk (B. vii. 7) forbids the keeping of dogs unless among the Jews. In Hor. 13a the dog is said Institute Medical School. the product is research cited by Shehadeh The global wholesale infant formula nutritional supplement. When the results compare Ex. xi. 7), and it is dangerous to seize the former is difficult to distinguish from they are chained; in cities, near the seacoast to be distinguished from the cat in that he Major benefits gained from breastfeeding, that has shown a positive effect of insulin market is estimated at $8.5 to $9.5 billion of the forthcoming clinical trials are pub- him by the ear in order to stop him (Prov. the wolf (Ber. 9b). As a rule, the dog does or the frontier, they may for safety’s sake recognizes his master while the latter does in addition to bonding, have been touted by on the gastro-intestinal tract. “The GI tract per year. The market has shown dynamic lished, and the health benefits demonstrat- xxvi. 17). He is of a fierce disposition (Isa. lvi. not scratch and tear like beasts of prey (ul. be let loose at night (B. 83a). According to not. In the more recent versions of Tobit vi. pediatric research for years. Breastfed babies has receptors for insulin. We have found growth in the last few years, driven mainly ed, we will need a manufacturing base ready 11; A. V. “greedy”)and therefore the type of 53a), but when driven by hunger he tears Tosef., B. viii. 17, and B. 80b, the raising of 1 and xi. 4 (see Grimm’s commentary ad usually have fewer infections, the incidence that insulin has a very positive effect on the by socio-economic changes, especially in to meet the demand,” said Shehadeh. violent men (Ps. xxii. 17 [A. V. 16], 21 [20]). and devours young lambs (B. K. 15b); he small Cyprian dogs is allowed. These seem loc.; but compare Abrahams in “Jew. Quart. of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) entire system, and leads to rapid matura- urban areas, where working mothers face The company recently finished a round Treacherous and filthy (Prov. xxvi. 11), his bites men, but does not break a bone (Pes. to be the little dogs that “eat of the crumbs Rev.” i. 288) the dog follows Tobias on his is much less, and colic and other digestive tion of the intestinal enzymes. When a longer working hours, shorter maternity of financing and is looking for investors to name is used as a term of reproach and self- 49b). “With his sharp scent he smells the which fall from their master’s table” (Matt. journey from home and back. According problems are usually less prevalent because premature bottle-fed baby is given insulin- leave and hectic lifestyles. participate in additional investment to broad- humiliation in such expressions as: “What is bread hidden three fists deep in the soil” xv. 26, 27). In the time of the Amoraim to Rab, in Gen. R. xxii., the sign given by mother’s milk is easier to digest than formula. enhanced formula, its GI tract interacts Shehadeh tested the InsuMeal by add- en the clinical trials in Europe and Israel, and thy servant, which is but a dog” (II Kings viii. (Pes. 31b). Shepherd-dogs are fed on bread the ordinary dog does not appear to have God to Cain (Gen. iv. 15) is to be explained But Shehadeh’s research kept coming back to with insulin and matures faster,” Shehadeh ing it to the commercial formula consumed to begin the regulatory process and marketing 13, R. V.); or “Am I a dog’s head?” (II Sam. iii. made of flour and bran (challah i. 8). Two been regarded as ferocious; for it is said: that he was given a dog as companion or the emphasis on the need for insulin. told ISRAEL21c, adding that the effect is by eight premature babies. and sales efforts. As supplements given with 8); or “After whom dost thou pursue? after a shepherd-dogs are required to save the flock “One should not raise a bad dog in the guardian. Idle housewives were known to An expert in juvenile diabetes, local, meaning the insulin does not go into “Their increase in weight was faster formula for babies become an accepted part dead dog?” (I Sam. xxiv. 15 [A. V. 14]; compare from the attack of wolves (B. M. vii. 9). house, this being a transgression of Deut. play with dogs (Ket. 61b). “For his friendly Shehadeh and others observed the higher the blood and interfere with the natural than babies in the control group; the time of modern motherhood, Nutrinia believes II Sam. ix. 8, xvi. 9; Cheyne’s emendation in While dogs hate one another, they are ready xxii. 8, ‘Thou shalt not bring blood upon conduct at the exodus of the Hebrews when incidence of the disease among children sugar/insulin balance. needed for a full oral feeling was shorter, that InsuMeal will become synonymous with “Encyc. Bibl.” s.v. “Dog,” seems unnecessary). to unite against the attacking wolf (Pes. thine house’” (B. 16b, 46a: compare Shab. he did not ‘move his tongue against man or who had not been breastfed. “We looked on the market and we did and they were more satisfied,” he reported. healthy baby nutrition. “Our vision is to The dog known to the Hebrews in Biblical 113b; Sanh. 105a). The dog depends chiefly 63a; Yer. B. vii. 6a, with reference to Job beast’ (Ex. xi. 7), God compensated the dog “An alarm went off in my head,” he not find any baby formula with insulin. It According to the startup company’s spe- make milk replacement formula as healthy as times was the so-called pariah dog, the shep- on the nourishment furnished him by man, vi. 14, “A dog before the house withholds by telling the people that the meat forbid- told ISRAEL21c, and the first seed was was lacking in all,” said Shehadeh. “The rea- cial adviser, Dr. Michal Devir, the double blind mother’s milk,” said Shehadeh. herd-dog (Job xxx. 7) being the more fero- but is as a rule greatly neglected, wherefore kindness from one’s neighbor, because no den to them should be cast unto him” planted for an idea for a formula for non- son insulin is not in formula, is because it is study conformed to strict safety factors and For more interesting news about Israel, see www. cious species. The Assyrian hunter’s dog was God has provided him with the faculty of one can enter the house.” A wild dog is continued on page 14 breast-fed babies that would come closer very sensitive to heat and mechanical stress, produced no adverse reactions or side effects. israel21c.org

J e w i s h F e d e r a t i o n o f G r e a t e r D e s M o i n e s

THE CASPE Best Wishes TERRACE for a Happy Hanukah! 3 3 1 5 8 U t e A v e n u e Bruce Sherman • Anniversaries Dave Lettween • Baby Showers and families • Bar and Bat Mitzvahs • Birthday Parties • Britot • Family Reunions • Graduations • Weddings Happy Hanukah!

Jim and Shirlee Marcovis Make life’s milestone Nashi and Bobbi Khalastchi, Jenny and Danny We are here to care for your Frank and Janel Marcovis, Karen, Mike and Jeff celebrations memorable... David Marcovis Eyewear needs – at The Caspe Terrace Eye Exams are available 1801 Ingersoll Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309 for the location nearest you call 1-888-367-2020 Usage of The Caspe Terrace is limited to the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, its employees, 515-243-7431 • toll-free 800-222-7027 Jewish Federation Members and to United Way affiliates. Events are limited to Federation community e-mail: [email protected] programming; for Members of the Federation for occasions that are significant life stage events and reli- gious in nature. A maintenance fee shall be charged to individuals to cover costs incurred of these events.

10 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 11

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 10-11 10/16/07 10:04:40 AM Jewish Encyclopedia of 1906 [health] Israel’s Nutrinia brings the magic of mother’s milk to baby formula By Sharon Kanon for Israel 21 C to the benefits of mother’s milk - specifi- and usually destroyed in formulas. We devel- “It shows the importance of oral insu- DOG In the first 24 hours of life, a nursing cally the massive amounts of natural insulin oped a new technology to keep the insulin lin for babies, especially during the critical By: Solomon Schechter and Kaufmann Kohler probably unknown. retaining his food in the stomach for three mentioned as dangerous to handle (Gen. baby gets a big zing of power from its moth- found in mother’s nectar. bioactive. We also have a usage patent.” first four months,” said Devir, a physician The dog referred to in the Bible is the —In Rabbinical Literature: days (Shab. 154b; Beah 21a). At times, R. lxxvii.), as is also a young dog (‘Er. 86a). er’s milk. “This is a mother’s first gift to The result of that alarm is InsuMeal, a InsuMeal is comprised of a mixture of with extensive experience in management semi-savage species seen throughout the East, Two different dogs are mentioned: the however, he eats his excrement (B. 92b). A mad dog is so dangerous that he may be her child,” says Professor Naim Shehadeh, bioactive insulin protein that can be added insulin, vitamin C and maltodextrin, a carbo- and biotech investment. held in contempt for its fierce, unsympathetic ordinary dog and the small Cyprian (not, The excrement of dogs is used for tanning killed even on Sabbath (Shab. 121b). Rabies head of the Pediatric Diabetes Clinic at to commercial infant formulas to make them hydrate derived from starch. Nutrinia’s tech- “We reached the conclusion that if habits, and not yet recognized for his nobler as commonly explained, “the farmers’ dog.” (Ber. 25a; Ket. 77a). The barking of dogs at is the effect of an evil spirit or of witchcraft; the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, closer to mother’s milk. InsuMeal is the first nology micro-encapsulates the mixture (so that insulin is so high in human milk, and qualities as the faithful companion of man. The former species resembles the wolf; the midnight (Ber. 3a) gives people a feeling of and its signs are: the dog keeps the mouth describing the nutrients and vitamins that product to emerge from Nutrinia, the company it stays bioactive) and creates a powder. It can important for the gut, then it should be He is used chiefly by shepherds or farmers to latter the fox; and the crossing of these safety, wherefore the rule is given: “Dwell open; his saliva is constantly flowing; his mother’s milk provides the newborn. Shehadeh founded together with Dr. Sharon then be added to any commercial formula. given to bottle-fed babies as a nutritional watch their sheep or their houses and tents, is forbidden as “kilayim” (mixture of spe- not in a town where no barking of dogs is ears hang down; his tail lies closely upon Especially insulin. Devir CEO of New Generation Technologies Other leading manufacturers have intro- supplement,” added Shehadeh. and to warn them by his loud barking of any cies; Kil. i. 6; compare Aristotle, “Historia heard” (Pes. 113a). “A dog in a strange city his loins; he walks on the sideways of the “Insulin is 100 times more concen- (NGT), and Maabarot Products Ltd., whose duced probiotic supplements to formulas The next step is the launch of a major possible danger (Job xxx. 1; Isa. lvi. 10). He Animalium,” viii. 27, 8, where the one will not bark, and it takes him seven years street, and does not bark (Yoma 83b). The trated in the first milk a mother gives her subsidiary is Materna Laboratories, the lead- since 2002. Bioactive fatty acids were the first clinical study, with 100 pre-term and full-term lives in the streets, where he acts as scavenger, species of dogs is declared to be a crossing to feel at home” (‘Er. 61a). cure for hydrophobia is the eating of a part baby than in the blood. Nature must have ing manufacturer and marketer of Materna supplement product added to commercial babies, which is expected to begin this fall, feeding on animal flesh unfit for man, and of dogs and wolves, and the other [the The Keeping of Dogs. of the dog’s diaphragm (Yoma viii. 6; see a reason for enriching the first milk and infant formula (Israel’s largest manufacturer formulas. But Nutrinia’s InsuMeal is the first with the approval of the Hospital Helsinki often devouring even human bodies (Ex. xxii. Laconian] a crossing of dogs and foxes). The dog is the most shameless of Folk-Medicine). helping the newborn get over the shock of of baby formula). Nutrinia began as a startup bioactive insulin supplement, and Nutrinia’s Committee. The babies will be recruited by 31; I Kings xiv. 11, xvi. 4, xxi. 23; II Kings While the ordinary dog is counted by R. animals (Ex. R. xlii.); he was one of those The Faithful Dog. the first 24 hours,” explains Shehadeh, who project at NGT, a government-backed incuba- first product in a range of bioactive protein Professor Nehama Linder and her staff at the ix. 10, 36; Jer. xv. 3). At night he wanders Meïr among domestic animals (“behemah”), who would not abstain from cohabitation In the course of time a certain affection specializes in pediatrics and endocrinology, tor in Nazareth. supplement products designed to bring infant Beilinson Medical Center in Tel Aviv. in troops from place to place, filling the air the Cyprian dog is declared to be a wild ani- in the Ark (Gen. R. xxxvii.). The Mishnah for the dog seems to have been developed and is also on the faculty of the Technion Giving a big impetus to the need for formula closer to mother’s milk. “We believe that InsuMeal is a vital with the noise of his barking (Ps. lix. 7-14; mal (“chayyah”; Yer. Kil. 27a). In the dusk (B. vii. 7) forbids the keeping of dogs unless among the Jews. In Hor. 13a the dog is said Institute Medical School. the product is research cited by Shehadeh The global wholesale infant formula nutritional supplement. When the results compare Ex. xi. 7), and it is dangerous to seize the former is difficult to distinguish from they are chained; in cities, near the seacoast to be distinguished from the cat in that he Major benefits gained from breastfeeding, that has shown a positive effect of insulin market is estimated at $8.5 to $9.5 billion of the forthcoming clinical trials are pub- him by the ear in order to stop him (Prov. the wolf (Ber. 9b). As a rule, the dog does or the frontier, they may for safety’s sake recognizes his master while the latter does in addition to bonding, have been touted by on the gastro-intestinal tract. “The GI tract per year. The market has shown dynamic lished, and the health benefits demonstrat- xxvi. 17). He is of a fierce disposition (Isa. lvi. not scratch and tear like beasts of prey (ul. be let loose at night (B. 83a). According to not. In the more recent versions of Tobit vi. pediatric research for years. Breastfed babies has receptors for insulin. We have found growth in the last few years, driven mainly ed, we will need a manufacturing base ready 11; A. V. “greedy”)and therefore the type of 53a), but when driven by hunger he tears Tosef., B. viii. 17, and B. 80b, the raising of 1 and xi. 4 (see Grimm’s commentary ad usually have fewer infections, the incidence that insulin has a very positive effect on the by socio-economic changes, especially in to meet the demand,” said Shehadeh. violent men (Ps. xxii. 17 [A. V. 16], 21 [20]). and devours young lambs (B. K. 15b); he small Cyprian dogs is allowed. These seem loc.; but compare Abrahams in “Jew. Quart. of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) entire system, and leads to rapid matura- urban areas, where working mothers face The company recently finished a round Treacherous and filthy (Prov. xxvi. 11), his bites men, but does not break a bone (Pes. to be the little dogs that “eat of the crumbs Rev.” i. 288) the dog follows Tobias on his is much less, and colic and other digestive tion of the intestinal enzymes. When a longer working hours, shorter maternity of financing and is looking for investors to name is used as a term of reproach and self- 49b). “With his sharp scent he smells the which fall from their master’s table” (Matt. journey from home and back. According problems are usually less prevalent because premature bottle-fed baby is given insulin- leave and hectic lifestyles. participate in additional investment to broad- humiliation in such expressions as: “What is bread hidden three fists deep in the soil” xv. 26, 27). In the time of the Amoraim to Rab, in Gen. R. xxii., the sign given by mother’s milk is easier to digest than formula. enhanced formula, its GI tract interacts Shehadeh tested the InsuMeal by add- en the clinical trials in Europe and Israel, and thy servant, which is but a dog” (II Kings viii. (Pes. 31b). Shepherd-dogs are fed on bread the ordinary dog does not appear to have God to Cain (Gen. iv. 15) is to be explained But Shehadeh’s research kept coming back to with insulin and matures faster,” Shehadeh ing it to the commercial formula consumed to begin the regulatory process and marketing 13, R. V.); or “Am I a dog’s head?” (II Sam. iii. made of flour and bran (challah i. 8). Two been regarded as ferocious; for it is said: that he was given a dog as companion or the emphasis on the need for insulin. told ISRAEL21c, adding that the effect is by eight premature babies. and sales efforts. As supplements given with 8); or “After whom dost thou pursue? after a shepherd-dogs are required to save the flock “One should not raise a bad dog in the guardian. Idle housewives were known to An expert in juvenile diabetes, local, meaning the insulin does not go into “Their increase in weight was faster formula for babies become an accepted part dead dog?” (I Sam. xxiv. 15 [A. V. 14]; compare from the attack of wolves (B. M. vii. 9). house, this being a transgression of Deut. play with dogs (Ket. 61b). “For his friendly Shehadeh and others observed the higher the blood and interfere with the natural than babies in the control group; the time of modern motherhood, Nutrinia believes II Sam. ix. 8, xvi. 9; Cheyne’s emendation in While dogs hate one another, they are ready xxii. 8, ‘Thou shalt not bring blood upon conduct at the exodus of the Hebrews when incidence of the disease among children sugar/insulin balance. needed for a full oral feeling was shorter, that InsuMeal will become synonymous with “Encyc. Bibl.” s.v. “Dog,” seems unnecessary). to unite against the attacking wolf (Pes. thine house’” (B. 16b, 46a: compare Shab. he did not ‘move his tongue against man or who had not been breastfed. “We looked on the market and we did and they were more satisfied,” he reported. healthy baby nutrition. “Our vision is to The dog known to the Hebrews in Biblical 113b; Sanh. 105a). The dog depends chiefly 63a; Yer. B. vii. 6a, with reference to Job beast’ (Ex. xi. 7), God compensated the dog “An alarm went off in my head,” he not find any baby formula with insulin. It According to the startup company’s spe- make milk replacement formula as healthy as times was the so-called pariah dog, the shep- on the nourishment furnished him by man, vi. 14, “A dog before the house withholds by telling the people that the meat forbid- told ISRAEL21c, and the first seed was was lacking in all,” said Shehadeh. “The rea- cial adviser, Dr. Michal Devir, the double blind mother’s milk,” said Shehadeh. herd-dog (Job xxx. 7) being the more fero- but is as a rule greatly neglected, wherefore kindness from one’s neighbor, because no den to them should be cast unto him” planted for an idea for a formula for non- son insulin is not in formula, is because it is study conformed to strict safety factors and For more interesting news about Israel, see www. cious species. The Assyrian hunter’s dog was God has provided him with the faculty of one can enter the house.” A wild dog is continued on page 14 breast-fed babies that would come closer very sensitive to heat and mechanical stress, produced no adverse reactions or side effects. israel21c.org

J e w i s h F e d e r a t i o n o f G r e a t e r D e s M o i n e s

THE CASPE Best Wishes TERRACE for a Happy Hanukah! 3 3 1 5 8 U t e A v e n u e Bruce Sherman • Anniversaries Dave Lettween • Baby Showers and families • Bar and Bat Mitzvahs • Birthday Parties • Britot • Family Reunions • Graduations • Weddings Happy Hanukah!

Jim and Shirlee Marcovis Make life’s milestone Nashi and Bobbi Khalastchi, Jenny and Danny We are here to care for your Frank and Janel Marcovis, Karen, Mike and Jeff celebrations memorable... David Marcovis Eyewear needs – at The Caspe Terrace Eye Exams are available 1801 Ingersoll Avenue Des Moines, IA 50309 for the location nearest you call 1-888-367-2020 Usage of The Caspe Terrace is limited to the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, its employees, 515-243-7431 • toll-free 800-222-7027 Jewish Federation Members and to United Way affiliates. Events are limited to Federation community e-mail: [email protected] programming; for Members of the Federation for occasions that are significant life stage events and reli- gious in nature. A maintenance fee shall be charged to individuals to cover costs incurred of these events.

10 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 11

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 10-11 10/16/07 10:04:40 AM [people] commentary Cantor from page 1 Originally from West Bloomfield, MI, Bletstein received her Bachelor’s in Music Debbie Gitchell Joins ICRC Jews Must Do More To Save Environment with distinction from Ohio Northern Debbie Gitchell, of tee. There are twenty-six cities within Iowa By Rabbi Steve Gutow energy independence and global warming address our current energy demands. University in 1992. In addition to perform- Ames, past president that have such committees, and they form As the energy crisis and the ominous reality are equally important in the long run and Investments in the use of these fuels ing with both the opera and musical theatre of both the Jewish part of Iowa’s League of Human Right of global warming loom larger in the public’s deserving of the same level of attention. are investments this country must make. departments, she created the position of Federation and JCRC, Agencies, which solicits guidance on issues mind, there is little doubt the United States While our tradition may not favor a par- At home, in our synagogues and in lead singer for both of the ONU Jazz Bands, has been appointed from the ICRC. must immediately engage this issue head on. ticular policy, it is hardly silent. Deuteronomy our communities we can take substantive which had historically never appeared with to a six year term A second, important task of the ICRC Fortunately the solution to both concerns explicitly forbids destroying fruit-bearing actions by reducing our energy footprint, a vocalist. This led to an opportunity to on the Iowa Civil is to craft and work on a legislative agenda. require the same shifting of policies, the same trees when attacking a city. The verses ask the making smart consumer choices, driving open for Marvin Hamlisch at The Veteran’s Rights Commission. Among the agenda items of the agency are courageous actions and the same discipline. question: “Are the trees of the field human to less and exchanging inefficient light bulbs Memorial Convention Center in Lima, She becomes one sexual orientation and gender equity issues Carbon emissions that are destroying withdraw before you into the besieged city?” for efficient CFL bulbs. As activists, you can Ohio. She went on to earn her Master’s of seven commissioners on the state as pertain, for example, to employment, the earth of our children and grandchildren, Our tradition understands that trees are not make a difference by holding events, and of Music from Carnegie-Mellon University agency headed by Ralph Rosenberg housing, extension of credit and education. and a world dependent on tyrants such as able to act in their own self-defense and need calling and writing your senators, congress- in Pittsburgh, where she majored in classi- (Executive Director) and chaired by Alicia It was largely due to the ICRC’s efforts Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, even more protection than humans. The men and other elected officials to tell them cal voice. While at CMU, she performed Claypool of Des Moines. The Commission that a bill protecting civil rights Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and Torah and the Talmud say that Jews are not that you believe America deserves a smart, leading roles in opera and musical theatre meets bi-monthly, usually at the Grimes regardless of sexual orientation went Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir are not allowed to destroy or waste anything. comprehensive energy policy. productions, and received rave reviews for Building at the Capitol Complex where the through the state legislature and was signed realities in which Jews can safely relax. Unfortunately, this fundamental rab- We are in a battle for survival. Our her portrayal of Golde in Fiddler on the Roof. ICRC is housed. into law by the governor. The Jewish community, which has binic mandate of “not destroying anything,” physical world, our immediate and future A member of Actor’s Equity Association, she Debbie offers the following about the This year, ICRC hopes to bring to pub- a particular stake in this race because known rabbinically as “bal taschkit,” is not security, even the air we breathe are at great has appeared on the summer stock stages of work of the Commission: lic attention the time limit established with- of Israel’s vulnerability to enemy nations well known. It should be. In Psalms the risk. We are a people who from our history The New London Barn Playhouse and The The primary task of the ICRC is to in which one can file a claim with ICRC. whose power is derived from the flow of Lord says that the Earth “is the Lord’s and understand the need to engage. Energy con- Hampton Playhouse, as well as Theatreworks field and process complaints brought to At present the law provides an Iowan 180 petrodollars, must do more. everything that is in it.” As Jews, action in servation and reducing greenhouse emissions USA in New York and Walt Disney World’s it by Iowans. ICRC’s case work consists days to file a claim of discrimination. ICRC Recently I sat with a group of senators in the world is a basic fabric of our theology and are not luxuries for those who just want to MGM Studios in Orlando. of processing complaints of unfair or dis- would like to ask the state legislature to Washington and presented concerns of the the most important proof of faith in God. see a “better world,” they are necessities and In 2002, Cantor Bletstein began her criminatory practices in employment, public increase the filing period to 300 days. Jewish community about energy and the envi- Indeed, to be silent and dormant flies in the an obligation we have to the world. After all, studies at H.L. Miller Cantorial School at accommodation, education, housing, and In addition to its duties above, the ronment. Among the leaders on hand from face of the fundamental nature of Judaism. the Earth is really not ours; it is the Lord’s the Jewish Theological Seminary, in New financial lending. Complaints are based Commission also holds workshops to Jewish organizations were David Harris of the From a holistic standpoint there are two and it should not be wasted or destroyed. York City. She spent her second year of on race, national origin, color, sex (gender), explain issues and attends various human American Jewish Committee and Howard sides of the energy equation: We can use less Discipline, innovation and investment the program studying at The Conservative sexual orientation, gender identity, disabil- rights events occurring around the state. Kohr of AIPAC. Harris made a presentation oil and we must increase production of power will not wait for the next decade or even the Yeshiva in Jerusalem as well as ulpan at ity, retaliation, religion, age, familial status, To members of the Jewish community, on Israel; Kohr presented on Iran. from existing renewable sources. We must next year -- they are needed now. Buckminister Hebrew University. Bletstein has served as and marital status. In addition, the ICRC Debbie adds the following: “It is important The senators clearly saw climate and reduce our bloated energy consumption by Fuller, a sage though not a Talmudic one, guest hazzan and speaker at numerous con- is concerned with immigration issues, in for members of our community to know energy policy as a paramount concern of tapping into the strength of our disciplined stated: “If the success or failure of this planet, gregations throughout the US, and is sought relation to human rights, ensuring employer that religion is one of the areas in which the day, and the responsible question is if tradition and being more cognizant of what and of human beings, depended on how I after as a concert artist for her abilities to compliance with the National Disability individuals are protected by law against our community is paying enough attention we consume. We must open our minds to the am and what I do, how would I be? What seamlessly cross over genres of opera, musi- Act, protection of rights through hate crimes discrimination.” She advises those with to these issues. Sadly, it is not. continuing dialogue of new and innovative would I do?” cal theatre, classical hazzanut, contemporary legislation, federal pay discrimination issues, a prospective complaint to consult with The Jewish community is right to make solutions. We must also seek out alterna- It is our call. Jewish music, jazz, pop and folk stylings. Her and combating predatory lending practices. either ICRC or the human rights com- Israel’s safety and thwarting Iran’s pur- tive sources of energy such as wind power, Rabbi Steve Gutow is the executive director of writing is published in the inaugural issue of As an intake agency, complaints of mission in their city, if one resides in Des suit of nuclear weapons top priorities, but solar power, bio-fuels and geothermal heat to the Jewish Council for Public Affairs. CJ: Voices of Conservative/Masorti Judaism. discrimination may be filed with the ICRC Moines or Ames. by calling 1-800-457-4416. The process Debbie, was on the Ames Human for filing a complaint goes from intake, Rights Commission for about six years jurisdictional review, screening, mediation, and served as its chair for a few years. “I’ve investigation, cause decision to the decision always had a passion for civil rights,” she to proceed to a public hearing, a proposed said. “I’m honored to have been select- decision, commission decision, to possible ed to serve the people of our state on District Court review or an Appellate Court the Commission.” review if necessary. The goal is to have the With her wide experience, dedication, process completed in 90 days. sound judgment, and sense of voluntarism, Of course, human rights complaints Debbie has set a high standard for others to may alternately be directed to a city’s follow in improving the quality of life for human rights or human relations commit- all Iowans. European Day of Jewish Culture BRUSSELS (EJP)---On September 2, Europe tours as well as special views of their archi- celebrated Jewish culture during the 8th tecture and a number of arts events taking annual European Day of Jewish Culture, a place across the country. day that this year took place in 30 countries In Manchester, the Jewish Museum fea- to discover the cultural and historical heri- tured personal and taped testimonies from tage of Judaism. Jews talking about life in the Cheetham Hill Thanks to open doors, circuits, exhi- area while in London’s West End, the West bitions, lectures and concerts, the wider London Synagogue held a special concert. public is invited to get to know Klezmer In Leeds, the annual Jewish arts festival music, contemporary art, theatre and to starts on Sept. 2 and runs until Sept. 6. visit synagogues, old cemeteries, ritual baths In France, from 2 to 9 Sept. a series and ancient Jewish quarters. of conferences and visits of museums fea- The chosen theme for this year, tured the life of personalities of the Jewish “Testimonies”, enabled communities to community, daily life, architecture, Jewish highlight the imprints which have been left heritage and its integration in the national by the Jews everywhere they have lived. culture. Several cities, such as Paris and In Austria, Belgium, Bosnia- Strasbourg emphasized Jewish cooking Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech traditions.(www.jecj-france.org). Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Over 10,000 volunteers and institu- Greece, Holland, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, tional persons participated in organizing the Luxembourg, Macedonia, Norway, Poland, events: Jewish associations, tourist boards, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, municipalities, museums, artists, students. Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Last year, the day attracted more than 2843 Ingersoll Avenue • 274-4004 Turkey, Ukraine and United Kingdom. 125,000 visitors in 30 countries. In the UK, synagogues built in the Courtesy of the European Jewish Press, at www. 18th and 19th century presented guided ejpress.org

12 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 9

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 12-13 10/16/07 10:04:46 AM [in profile:] [chef du jour] In the Kitchen With Ron’s friend Steve Physioc, now a well The Rosenblatts took a family vaca- I had the privilege of dining on this Michael Sachs known personality in the sports-casting tion to Australia in August and plan recipe of Old English Prime Rib at the Ron arena, did the evening sports report for to visit Scotland soon. Next is New Rosenblatt home. It’s divine to eat and was From lessons with Ziggy Elman at age six to first chair in the Cleveland Orchestra the local TV station where a very cute Susy York for Thanksgiving and then skiing such fun to watch Ron crack the meat out He has performed under the greats, including to the fall open house at her elementary That’s how I ended up getting a History and flexibility. I do about a 45 minute warm- Rosenblatt Robinette also worked. So Susy’s and Ron’s in Utah in December. of its hard salt crust. Ron does the cooking Leonard Bernstein, Sir Georg Solti, and Pierre school. Music in our school system was degree from UCLA. I was about 19 or 20 up routine of fundamentals at the start of by Karen Engman first date was a “fix-up” and they attended a Ron won’t be idle since he’s formed in the Rosenblatt/Robinette household and Boulez and continues to impress critics with his very strong. The elementary school band before I was certain I wanted to try to make every day. From there I typically will do any- Kansas State football game. a partnership with a longtime friend of this is a tasty recipe that’s perfect for the “magisterial gifts,” “spectacular chops” – refer- played, and a kid got up and played a my living playing professionally, and I only where from an hour to three hours of prac- The rest is history because they now 50 years from New York to sell Lifetime winter months. I think it would be great ring to the strength and agility of his playing trumpet solo. (“Never on a Sunday,” I think really buckled down and focused solely on tice (the latter broken up into two hour and a have two lovely daughters, Betsy, a junior Settlement Insurance. His clients will be paired with potato latkes for Chanukah! – and his “radiant tone.” Recognized interna- it was.) I thought it was the most amaz- my trumpet playing when I got to New York, half sessions, usually). On a heavy concert at the University of Pennsylvania and 65-85 years old and he explained it to me The JEWISH PRESS thanks Ron for tionally as a leading soloist, recitalist, chamber ing thing I’d ever heard and immediately at age 21, to study at the Juilliard School. or rehearsal day I’ll do a warm-up and that’s Katherine, a freshman at Tufts University. as the business of treating insurance as an sharing this recipe with our readers. If you musician, teacher, author and clinician, Michael begged my parents for lessons. There was JP: Time out, for a moment, while I pres- all. At the end of every day I also do a cool In the past, Ron has served as the trea- asset. He would also like to return to teach- have a recipe to share, call (515-274-3300) or Sachs is principal trumpet in the world-class only one catch: I had no front teeth at the ent some additional biographical information down, not unlike a runner stretching at the surer for the Jewish Federation board and is ing at one of the local colleges. email ([email protected]). Cleveland Orchestra. It is a position he has held time, so I had to wait two years for them to about you, Mr. Sachs. Prior to joining the end of a taxing run. Conditioning is very currently on the finance since 1988. His artistry may be heard on more come in. At that point my mom took me Cleveland Orchestra, you were a member of important as I need to be strong yet remain committee for Planned than 125 compositions recorded by the Cleveland to the local music store where she heard the Houston Symphony Orchestra and taught fresh and flexible. Each week the repertoire Parenthood of Iowa. Old English Prime Rib Orchestra and on other recordings. there was a terrific teacher. It turned out at the Shepherd School of Music at Rice changes so my needs physically change as Golf and skiing A Recipe from Ron Rosenblatt Meat Despite all his accomplishments, Michael that it was the famous big band trumpeter University. Another interesting tidbit about well. I need to stay in a shape that can allow are his favorite sports. Sachs remains one of the most down to earth, easy- Ziggy Elman – and Mr. Elman became you is that John Williams (composer of the me to flow with my schedule and not ever He was a caddy in high Minced garlic from the bottle or fresh to-chat-with people one would hope to find. my first teacher. [Elman is famous for his music for Star Wars and an eminent conductor) feel too tired or beat up at any point. school but didn’t start 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Jewish Press: Mr. Sachs, we’re delighted to hot klezmer solo on “As the Angles Sing,” wrote his “Concerto for Trumpet” for you, as JP: You noted that in your youth you playing golf until he was 1 tsp paprika have you with us. Tell us a bit about the recorded with Benny Goodman. –ed.] commissioned by the Cleveland Orchestra. listened to the recordings of the NBC Ron Rosenblatt was born in 1947 in New York 25. Now he can play all musical environment you grew up in? JP: How easily did you take to playing? That was in 1996. You are the author of two Symphony and later, presumably, record- City. He grew up in Scarsdale, Westchester he wants since they live Salt and lots of pepper to taste Michael Sachs: Thank you for having MS: Getting my embouchure [muscles texts, “Daily Fundamentals of the Trumpet” ings of other great orchestras. Were you County, NY with four brothers and a sister. As a on Glen Oaks golf course Choice prime or standing rib roast me. We lived in Santa Monica, California. around the mouth] set up from the beginning and “Mahler: Symphonic Work, Complete very attentive to who, particularly, occupied high school freshman, he tutored sophomore Liza in West Des Moines. Ron (1/2 lb per serving) My mother loved playing piano, especially and making a sound on the trumpet seemed Trumpet Parts.” And I might mention that you the first chairs on these recordings? Minnelli in biology. Ron said Ms. Minnelli was says “it’s like heaven.” Ice cream salt music of Beethoven, Chopin, and Brahms, very natural for me. While the physical serve as the Head of the Trumpet Department MS: Yes, I quickly became aware of very sweet and served him home baked cookies but They have the requisite and also loved listening to the recordings aspects of playing came together well for and Chairman of the Brass Division at the the tremendous trumpet players in those he didn’t realize until years later that she was the golf cart which makes of Toscannini and the NBC Symphony me over the years, I was always extremely Cleveland Institute of Music. orchestras. Players like Harry Glantz very famous singer, Judy Garland’s, daughter. it easy for the girls to – and anything with Leonard Bernstein. So diligent with my practicing and routine. After Mr. Sachs, who is the most communi- of the NBC Symphony, Bud Herseth of He attended Columbia University, get up to the pool dur- Combine Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic, salt and pepper; rub into meat. Line heavy music was a large part of my earlier years all these years, I still work very hard at cative conductor you have played under? the Chicago Symphony, Tom Stevens of where he majored in art history and minored ing the warm summer roasting pan with foil; cover bottom of roaster with layer of ice cream salt. Dampen salt lightly around my house. My father, however, was improving my playing and musicianship. MS: Probably Pierre Boulez would be the the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Armando in economics during his undergrad years and months. They ski in Park with water until just moist. Place roast on salt in standing rib position. Cover roast completely not musical at all. He ran an advertising JP: Did you know early on that you wanted “clearest.” He uses an economy of motion Ghitalla and Roger Voisin of the Boston then earned a masters degree in economics. City, Utah and now that with ice cream salt; repeat dampening procedure. Do not cover. agency focusing on children’s toys. to play professionally? and doesn’t necessarily say that much, but Symphony, and Phil Smith and William Ron taught history, social studies and eco- Ron has recently retired Bake in preheated 500 degree oven for 12-20 minutes per pound, depending on degree of JP: How did you get interested in the MS: Well, both my parents, while very sup- his hands communicate everything needed. Vacchiano of the New York Philharmonic nomics at George Washington High School from American Home doneness desired. Remove from oven. Crack salt with mallet; pull salt sections away from trumpet? portive of my trumpet playing, felt I would Christoph von Dohnanyi (musical director dur- were all great role models for me. Then before receiving his PhD in economics from Mortgage, he’ll have more meat. Brush all salt particles from roast. Place roast on serving platter; cut into serving portions. MS: Funny story. I have a sister a year be best served to get a broader education ing my first fourteen years with the Cleveland over the years I was very fortunate to meet the University of Idaho. He then taught for time for playing golf, ski- older than me. When I was four, I went in college and not get a music degree. Orchestra) always had strong musical ideas and spend quite a bit of time with all but one eight years at Kansas State University. ing and traveling. and a clear view of the end goals he wanted. of them, Mr. Glantz. He was terrific to work for. The same can JP: Having studied the styles and sound be said for my current boss, Franz Welser- ideals of the trumpeters of the past genera- Moest, as well as other favorite conductors tion, do you detect a difference in today’s I’ve had the pleasure to work with, includ- sound ideal? ing Georg Solti, Leonard Bernstein, John MS: That’s hard to say. There are definitely Williams, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Robert Shaw, subtle changes in how most trumpeters Michael Tilson Thomas, Seiji Ozawa, and play now as compared to 50 years ago. Kurt Masur. All of these conductors brought Back then most of these players were immi- a particular energy and vision that made grants and sons and daughters of immi- playing for them exciting and inspiring. grants. Their stylistic concepts were much JP: Boulez conducts Stravinsky; a 1996 record- more rooted in European culture while ing with the Cleveland Orchestra features now most players in American orchestras you among the seven solo ensemble musi- are American born and trained with a dif- cians on “The Soldier’s Tale.” This is a very ferent perspective. This evolution is also colorful and rhythmic piece that readers due to today’s almost unlimited access to might obtain to get a flavor of your playing. recordings. Fifty years ago you played in What impressed you about that recording an orchestra and were much more iso- session with Mr. Boulez? lated from other styles of playing, so many MS: Any time I’ve had the chance to work performers developed their own unique with Mr. Boulez has been a tremendous approach. With recordings and technical honor for me. He is one of the most bril- information becoming increasingly avail- liant and nicest persons I have ever met. able, there is now a much more homoge- Especially on a piece like “L’Histoire,” which neous stylistic approach, as compared to because it’s only involving seven players is back then. That said, just like everyone’s so intimate, it really gave us all a chance DNA is distinctive, so every player has his to get a clear window into his concepts or her own particular style and tastes. of the piece. Mr. Boulez has an uncanny JP: One final question. Would you share Premiums shown are for Term 10 Plus, a renewable term life insurance policy that guarantees the premium to remain level for 10 years from the Policy Date. The premiums quoted are based on the age of the insured at nearest birthday and specified underwit- way of choosing perfect tempos and (with with us one anecdote about being Jewish? ing classification and are subject to change without notice. Premiums for issued policies may be different than the premiums A b a c o va s e shown based upon actual underwriting classification. Generally, in the absence of fraud, after an amount of insurance has been his conducting mannerisms) the ability to MS: Sure. I had my Bar Mitzvah in my in effect for two years during your lifetime, we cannot contest that amount due to a false statement made in the application. In just feed your line to you in a way that you backyard. A good friend of the family was by salviati the event of death during the first two policy years by suicide or self destruction while insane, only the premiums paid will he returned as death proceeds. FlexTerm Series policies (Form 92-TR-1 and any state variations) are underwritten and issued by can’t help but sound good. [Readers can studying to be a rabbi and we just decided Ohio National Life Assurance Corporation, Cincinnati, Ohio. Guarantees are based on the claims-paying ability of the issuer. access excerpts of this recording online by to have me study with him for a couple of Product, product features and rider availability vary by state. Company not licensed to conduct business and products not distrib- uted in AK, HI and NY. Form 2942 Rev. 6-07 googling “Boulez” “L’Histoire”] years at home and then put a tent up and

NOT A DEPOSIT NOT FDIC INSURED NOT GUARANTEED BY ANY BANK JP: How much practice do you put in to do it that way. I had a wonderful time and MAY LOSE VALUE NOT INSURED BY ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY keep your skills finely honed? because of this setup, I was involved in MS: How much I practice can vary depend- many parts of the service. Really a terrific For more information, please call ing on my rehearsal- or concert- schedule education for me… Steven Jay Frederick, President/A Life for Giving and the demands of those services. I try JP: Thank you so much for the interview. It 666 Grand Avenue, 18th Floor-Suite 1818 to approach playing trumpet much like an is a pleasure to introduce you to readers. Best 400 East Locust Street #3 400 East Locust Street #4 Des Moines, Iowa 50309 athlete – the lip is like any other muscle in wishes for continued success, Mr. Sachs. East Village • DM East Village • DM 515-245-LIFE(5433) cell: 515-556-3750 the body and needs training both for strength MS: Thank you. 515-284-8882 515-284-8877

8 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 13

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 8-9 10/16/07 10:04:37 AM Partnership with Israel (P2K) Perspective on Judaism Leadership Course to be A Journey to Consolation, Justice and Healing Offered in the Western Galilee By Barbara Hirsch-Giller Delivered on Yom Kippur at the Alternative Service at Tifereth Israel Synagogue Each Fall, for the past four years, my While I clearly do not face the reality as anti-Jewish discourse, a mood and tone reports of the incidents that led up to this Twenty Israeli participants attended a institutions – people with an orientation dear friend and colleague, Sandra McGee and daily grind of racial discrimination, whenever Jews are discussed, whether in racial conflict, have essentially deleted an preliminary meeting about the leadership toward, and experience in, the fields of and I stand before a classroom filled with because “we” can generally “pass” for white, the media, at universities, among the liberal important fact of the story: the genesis of the course to be held by the Partnership in the leadership, management, entrepreneurship students enrolled in the Master of Social all we need to do is read our email or look media elite or at dinner parties of modish confrontation began with the beating of an coming year. and development. Work Program for the University of Iowa. in the paper. The worldwide Jewish popu- London. To express any support for Israel or African American student who mistakenly Israeli Partnership chairman Rami Raz The course will consist of ten sessions We are both veterans of Polk County Crisis lation has not faced the type of ferocious any feeling for the right of a Jewish state to sat under what was understood by the white along with Education and Community Task and will address a variety of issues relevant and Advocacy Services; we each bring to anti-Semitism that now exists since the exist produces denunciation, even contempt.” students at the school, as the “white tree.” Force chairpersons Dalia Feirman and Avi to the training of future Partnership lead- the classroom a lifetime of challenges and early Twentieth Century. I read from an And in our country, from an article in The next day nooses hung from the tree and Hatchuel, welcomed the participants and ers, such as: decision making, time manage- radically different but similar experiences; article published in the Washington Post on the New York Post: the specter of the lynching years rose again. shared with them their personal perspec- ment, leadership, marketing and public rela- we are challenged to coach a class of 30 or September 4, 2007; the column was written November 12, 2006 – “The number of While the white students were suspended tives on the project. tions, entrepreneurship, communication, more students to become culturally com- by British journalist, Denis MacShane: hate crimes in the city is up almost 8 per- from school, the African American students, At the meeting the participants learned managerial skills, volunteer activity, the petent social workers. Sandra is African “Hatred of Jews has reached new cent from last year, with attacks on Jews and one in particular, faced felony charges that about the project’s objectives and the unique Jewish world and its organizations. American; I am an eclectic Jew. We teach heights in Europe and many points south gays spiking the most, according to NYPD would have demanded years in prison. model on which Partnership 2000-Western Most of the course sessions will be in the diversity component for the MSW pro- and east of the old continent. Last year I stats. The number of crimes against Jews And the bottom-line is that Sandra and Galilee operates. the form of workshops of several hours’ gram: the class is entitled Discrimination, chaired a blue-ribbon committee of British surged 28 percent, to 95 from 74. Anti-gay I share a history and we are bound at the The goal of the course is to expand duration; there will also be a two-day Oppression and Diversity. parliamentarians, including former minis- crimes jumped 20 percent, to 47 from 39. soul level by the trauma of economic need the circle of Partnership 2000 activities sleepover study trip to Jerusalem, and the Sandra and I both grew up in families ters and a party leader, who examined the There were 42 crimes against gays in all of and hatred against our communities. So on by increasing the number of individuals possibility exists of an additional study trip who struggled everyday to make the dollar problem of anti-Semitism in Britain. None 2004 and 44 in all of 2005.” Thursday evenings from 5-8 p.m., we stand actively involved in the Israeli side of P2K. to the Jewish Partnership communities in cover daily necessities; we both learned by of us are Jewish or active in the unending The latest Federal Bureau of Investigation before our students and share life and expe- In conducting this program, P2K is hoping the United States. the example of our parents that compassion debates on the Israeli-Palestinian question. statistics for Crime in the United States rience and pray that, in some small way, we Join us in experiencing the great Italian tradition to develop a new cadre of individuals com- Participants will be expected to attend and respect for all human life would be the Our report showed a pattern of fear deals with hate crimes concerning religion will assist each other in developing small handed down and still very much alive today, mitted to the partnership idea, its goals and all of the course sessions, to submit indi- guiding principle by which we lived. We among a small number of British citizens and the breakdown looks like this: but mighty prophetic voices. Our students its modes of operation – people capable of vidual projects, and to play an active role in both grew up understanding that the world -- there are around 300,000 Jews in Britain, Bias Incidents Victims teach us and we teach them. a festive and joyous occasion for eating out. joining the existing Task Forces and evolv- partnership activities for a period of at least did not necessarily love us: Sandra lived of whom about a third are observant -- that Anti-Jewish 954 1,076 In order to utilize our religion, our ing into the partnership’s future generation two years. through the Civil Rights movement of the is not acceptable in a modern democracy. Anti-Islamic 156 201 faith, as a vehicle toward becoming our own Your hosts Bob and Amy Tursi of leaders. Organizers of the project will be con- sixties and while she is the first member of Synagogues attacked. Jewish schoolboys Sixty nine percent of the hate crimes brand of prophet, a catalyst toward Tikkun The participants included energetic ducting candidate interviews soon. her family to graduate from college (and is jostled on public transportation. Rabbis are directed against Jews, 11 percent Olam, we might begin within our Hebrew individuals from Akko, Mateh Asher To become involved with the Des completing her doctoral dissertation as we punched and knifed. British Jews feeling against Muslims. Facts that truly shock the Scriptures. Both Torah readings for today, and the region’s organizations, as well as Moines/Israel Partnership, contact 277- speak), she is still followed through stores compelled to raise millions to provide pri- general public. (from Leviticus and Numbers) establish an employees of the Partnership 2000 partner 6321 x 214. by clerks who suspect that she will pocket vate security for their weddings and com- Sandra’s community has witnessed ancient foundation for the atoning/healing an item and walk out of the store; the munity events. On campuses, militant anti- ghosts from the last three hundred years rituals that we celebrate today. We concep- 2200 Hubbell Avenue • Des Moines, Iowa 50317 [world] trauma of a high school guidance counselor Jewish students fueled by Islamist or far-left haunt the southern U.S. again this week, as tualize the ritual in these readings, but it is telling her that she was really only suited hate seeking to prevent Jewish students six young men are charged with attempted to the Prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures Phone: (515) 266-4466 for domestic work lurks in her memory, to from expressing their opinions. murder for an attack on a white youth in that we turn for a deep understanding of Iranian Opposition Group attack her self esteem periodically. More worrisome was what we described Jena, Louisiana. Most interestingly, our news the why of atonement. continued on page 15 Claims Iran Building Secret Underground Nuclear Facility

By VOA News 27 September 2007 An Iranian President Mahmoud Iranian opposition group says the Iranian Ahmadinejad said in his United Nations government is building a secret under- speech on Tuesday that Tehran’s nuclear ground military nuclear facility near its program is peaceful and transparent. existing complex at Natanz in the central France said Thursday it does not believe part of the country. him. The spokesman for President Nicolas The opposition National Council of Sarkozy said Paris has some very strong Resistance of Iran made the assertion at a clues indicating that Iran’s nuclear program news conference in Paris. The claim cannot also has military goals. be independently verified, and the group The National Council of Resistance did not provide any evidence. of Iran is the political arm of the People’s The group said its information came Mujahedin of Iran, which the United States from sources within Iran, and indicates that and European Union consider to be a ter- the underground facility is five kilometers rorist group. from the Natanz complex and will be opera- The group five years ago disclosed tional in six months. information about two hidden nuclear The United States and its allies accuse sites, including the one at Natanz, helping Tehran of trying to build a nuclear weapon uncover Iran’s nuclear program. However, and want to impose tougher international the group has made other claims in the past sanctions against Iran. that have not been verified.

Dog from page 10 (Mek., Mishpaim, 20, ing. So he hastened to eat it all up and fell on Ex. xxii. 30). Especially noteworthy is down dead, having thus saved his masters’ the fact that the story of the faithful dog lives. In gratitude, the shepherds reverently which Dunlop (“History of Prose Fiction,” buried the faithful dog, and erected a monu- ch. vii.; see Index, s.v. “Gellert”) and Benfey ment to him which is still called “The Dog’s (“Panchatantra,” 1859, i. 482) have traced Monument.” The Jewish belief was that the through the various literatures of the East howling of dogs betokened the presence and the West, is found for the first time in of the angel of death, or death itself in the Yer. Ter. viii. 46a and Pesich. x. 79b as one vicinity (compare Wuttke, “Der Deutsche of R. Meïr’s fables used as a haggadic illustra- Volksaberglaube,” 1869, §268); their cheer- tion of Prov. xvi. 7. Some shepherds had cur- ful (sportful) barking the presence of the dled milk for a meal, when in their absence prophet Elijah—that is, some joyful event a serpent ate of it and thus (as was the belief) (B. 60b). “If one goes out to select a wife instilled poison into it. The dog, which had for himself and hears the barking of dogs, witnessed the act, began to bark when his he may divine in their voices an omen of masters, on their return, proceeded to eat it; good or of evil” (Gen. R. lix.; the reading, but they would not heed his voice of warn- however, is doubtful).

14 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 7

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 14-15 10/16/07 10:08:53 AM Trio from page 1 Hed has attended mas- It is easy for us to imagine the debauchery of position as a palliative care social worker patient who wandered away from a fam- Torah Talk terclasses with Itzhak Rashkovsky, Ida the ancient times…we can envision Sodom for Iowa Health Homecare. Because of her ily gathering. Although a suburban police Haendel, Miriam Fried, Arnold Steinhard and Gomorrah; we can even apply to our severe pulmonary illness, they must choose department had been notified of a missing Truth by David Friedgood and Julian Rachlin. He has been supported times a sense of lost moral boundaries and whether to eat or have the medications that person bearing this description, when the by the America-Israel Cultural, the Ronen, other modern transgressions. But I truly can allow this patient to breathe. gentleman was brought to the station, the As I write this piece pleased and congratulatory, I new there was Where did Eve come from? Rabbinical and the Buchmann-Heyman Foundations. wonder how often we take stock of our own So today we come, in all of our human- police—not recognizing that he was the miss- Yom Kippur has passed. room for improvement. My Bubbe, on the scholars have argued about these and many An alumnus of the Keshet Eilon lives and ask ourselves if we are doing our ness, before our merciful God who loves ing person—asked that this man—who was In the Synagogue we other hand, made me feel perfect. However other Biblical inconsistencies for millennia. Mastercourse, he plays a violin owned by prophetic best. us. We come in large numbers today to wearing one shoe—be returned to the area are ready to return to meager my accomplishment, it was the best In 1656 Baruch Spinoza was excommuni- the late violinist and composer Baruch This last Thursday evening, Sandra and confess our sins, to pray for forgiveness and where he was found. Only the action of a the beginning, B’reshit in her eyes - never equaled in the history of cated by a Rabbinical court in Amsterdam Liftman, donated to the Keshet Eilon loan I had the tremendous pleasure of welcoming to resolve to do better. Each of us fails on compassionate and persistent citizen empow- (Genesis). Our cycle mankind. When she scolded or corrected for daring to question Biblical literal truth. program by his family. to our class the Reverend Carmen Lampe a daily basis to be the person that we desire ered the resolution of this sad story. My hope of Torah readings has my frequent transgressions, I sensed, even Rambam (Rabbi Moses Maimonides - 12th Julia Gurvitch, Russian-born pianist, Zeitler who is the Director of Children and to be…and yet, fundamentally, I believe that for myself this year, is that I can be a bit more been handed down through generations of at an early age, the chastisements of love. century) details how these Bible statements graduated from the Gnesin Music Academy Family Urban Ministries. Carmen is one we are good, that we are created in the beau- alert to the simple needs of others; to be a bit Jews for over 2000 years. As our ancestors (Even perfection could be better.) So, what and other stories are designed for us, with in Moscow. She was a soloist and an accom- of our annual speakers and we begin our tiful image of our God. And therefore, we more patient, a bit less busy; that I can be and did, we start each fall season (on Simchat does my childhood experience with different our limited human understanding, so that panist with the Moscow Philharmonic for semester with her lecture on the people can continue on this earthly journey, every speak the prophesy: do justice, act with love Torah) with our story of creation; having parenting methods have to do with ultimate we can get a glimpse of that which is beyond 11 years. Gurvitch performs extensively in who come every day to share the breakfast day reaching out a little bit farther, being a and mercy and walk humbly with my God. just completed reading the books of Moses truth? Let me explain with some examples: comprehension. They are to be understood Israel and abroad, and is presently a faculty and dinner, the mentoring and the relation- bit more loving, caring a little more. That I can do what is mine to do. That I can (the first five books of the Bible) ending In the first chapter of Genesis God allegorically, not literally. The Bible teaches member of the Buchmann-Mehta School of ship that is nurtured in the confines of When I consider what it is that I be, and know, that I am enough. This is my with the story of Moses’ death. It is an says: “Let us make man in our image, after us lessons, not literal facts. Music, Tel Aviv University. She has been a their agency on 8th St. between College believe our God is calling us to do today, hope for all of us at this New Year. endless circle of reading, kept alive by Jews our likeness... And God created man in My mother would have me learn my pianist at Keshet Eilon since the inception and Clark, in what is known as the “inner I think of the following: We need not be In the words of poet, Judy Chicago: the world over. These Torah readings are His image.” (Genesis 1:26-27). Are we to Bible lessons and report the story details of the project. city” of Des Moines. She comes to talk to the one person who develops the cure for And then all that has divided us will merge the centerpiece of our Shabbat and holiday assume then that each of us human beings specifically. In response to my questions For information about our Partnership our students about poverty: about the real- cancer; we need not be the contributor of And then compassion will be wedded to power service. In the ancient words, carefully looks like God? Or, does God have a form I can see her demeanor change ever so with Israel, view www.jewishdesmoines.org. ity that the people that her agency serves millions of dollars to rebuild New Orleans. And then softness will come to a world that is transcribed by the hands of pious scribes, and substance (face, nose, limbs) so that slightly and I know it is time to be quiet Journey from page 7 are not indigent people who choose not What we can do to change lives is merely to harsh and unkind is ultimate truth - or so we are taught. But He looks like us? No. This would dimin- and stay on task. She would not care for The words of the Prophets come to to work. They are immigrants who have perform the random acts of loving kindness And then both men and women will be gentle what is truth? How are we to understand ish God, subtracting from his all-inclusive my deviating off course and taking side us from the periods in our history when, left homes and families in other countries, that present themselves each day. We can And then both women and men will be strong the message rolled up in the yellowed parch- uniqueness. Our God is One. We think trips which lead to silly questions and clearly, we have turned against our God, pri- seeking sustenance for their children and phone or email our legislators to ask them And then no person will be subject to another’s will ment scrolls of Torah? of our creator as the mystics do - as Ein Sof which distract my attention. Bubbe, on marily by turning from each other. From fleeing violence. They are women and chil- to fund the soon to be abolished healthcare And then all will be rich and free and varied This time of year I reflect on my fam- (without end). He has no form and cannot the other hand, smiles. With her gaze she the Prophets of the Assyrian exilic period dren who have fallen into poverty through bill that insures millions of uninsured And then the greed of some will give way to the ily, now departed, whose influence still be contained or defined in our language. pats my head and I know that I please her. we hear: Isaiah chap. 10: and Amos chap. divorce and abuse. They are men who are children in our country; we can speak for needs of many drives my view and belief. My mother, His magnificence is not in any way like my Every question is wonderful. Every nuance 4: and Micah chap. 3: educated and willing to work, but suffer our brothers and sisters in Israel by simply And then all will share equally in the Earth’s though having passed some 30 years ago, image. Another example occurs in the end and innovative way of looking at Biblical Over and over, throughout the from devastating mental illness. They are attending an AIPAC gathering to support abundance is still alive in my thoughts. I still won- of the same verse. “Male and female He cre- text is good. There is not one path to truth. prophetic stories, we hear of simple people two-parent families who cannot pay rent and learn. But most importantly, we can And then all will care for the sick and the weak der how she would perceive my actions. ated them” (Genesis 1:27). Man and woman In fact there are infinite directions to take. Happy is the man who finds wisdom, who are called by God and respond with and struggle to access transportation to ask ourselves, on this Day of Atonement, and the old She was a loving, tough-minded woman who, were created together, as equals. Chapter 2 I do not know where the end of my travels The man who attains understanding.... trepidation and sometimes significant hesi- work because the bus lines do not service “WHAT IS MINE TO DO?” We can, if And then all will nourish the young despite her many responsibilities, always contains the better-known version of cre- are, but know that each deviation brings Her ways and pleasant ways, tation. The Prophets proclaim what God their area of town. These are families who, nothing else, find some small way to bring And then will cherish life’s creatures made sure her oldest child (me) knew what ation where woman is formed from Adam’s me closer. What is the final objective? And all her paths, peaceful. has done, in the merciful deliverance of the when the weekly childcare bill is paid, find hope, comfort or peace to one person. And And then all will live in harmony with one was expected. I, on the other hand, was less rib (though Rabbi Kushner has her formed Who knows? Truth is not reached by She is a tree of life to those who grasp her, Israelites from slavery only to witness their that there is not enough left over to buy that is enough. We are enough. another and the Earth than perfect and always sensed that I did at his side). So what are we to believe? completing this journey. It is the trip that And whoever holds on to her is happy. contemporaries enslaved again by self-cen- food. They are the husband and wife who This last week, we read in the newspaper And then everywhere will be called Eden not fully measure up. Even when she was What is the truth? Do we look like God? is filled with wonder. (Proverbs 3:13, 17-18) teredness and a hunger for power and gain. I visited this week in their home, in my about the story of a 61 year old Alzheimer’s once again.

the miracle of light

Wishing a Happy Hanukah To All

Hanukah is a festival celebrating the miracle of light. Miraculously, a single day’s supply of consecrated oil continued to flame for eight days.

This year, Gail and I celebrated Hanukah on July 30. Miraculously, it was on that day that we experienced the miracle of life. Along with that precious gift, we received early gifts in the form of your prayers and best wishes; gifts which we will remember forever. How long the flame in my heart will continue to glow is beyond my power to control, but there is not a morning or night that I do not give thanks to God for the gift given to me.

May the flame in your hearts continue to glow in health and well being, and may you always appreciate the miracle of life.

With all our love and thanks,

Gail and Stan Richards

6 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 15

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 6-7 10/16/07 10:12:37 AM Jewish Community Relations Commission Project Elijah Book by Mearsheimer and Walt Contending Jewish/pro-Israel Grand Opening of Project Elijah Manipulation of America Deemed “Malignant, Dishonest” Kosher Meal Packaging Facility A Letter from Janice Rosenberg, Project Elijah Foundation There has been controversy flowing from the First, they have argued that the “Israeli “[Other than for some relatively minor on the Israelis. … Yet one learns this recent publication of The Israel Lobby and U.S. government and pro-Israel groups” have changes] the book remains true to the agenda only at the end of The Israel Lobby. The Project Elijah Foundation is really rolling along! Thank you to Foreign Policy, by university professors John J. shaped President Bush’s “grand scheme for malignant and dishonest spirit of the[ir] …In their original-sin perspective, there has everyone who sent in your very generous contributions during our Mearsheimer and Stephen M. Walt. (Farrar reordering the Middle East.” … This argu- article. It represents the most sustained been no tangled spiral of causes and effects; Yom Kippur 2007 Appeal. If you have not yet contributed, there is still a Straus Giroux. 484 pp. $26) The authors ment is debatable. But it is at least as likely attack, the most mainstream attack, against only Israel’s actions and policies have desta- need and we will welcome your gifts. contend that “the Israel lobby” has manipulated as Walt and Mearsheimer’s naive belief that the political enfranchisement of American bilized the Middle East. …” Hopefully as this article reaches you, we will have opened our Project Congress, the media, and American administra- “the U.S. has a terrorism problem in good Jews since the era of Father Coughlin… – Samuel Freedman, October 7, 2007, Elijah Foundation Food Packaging Operation in West Des Moines. tions into supporting Israel against the interests part because it is so closely allied with Israel” The Israel Lobby and U.S. Foreign Washington Post. http://www.washingtonpost. We will share this facility with other like-minded groups in the Des Moines of the United States. -- the equivalent of arguing that Britain had Policy is a book of continuous astonish- com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/10/04/ Community to package nutritious meals to send to starving children and their families in A variety of book reviews and other articles a Nazi problem in the 1930s because it was ments. Each chapter contains assertions of AR2007100402101.html?referrer=emailarticle Des Moines and in many parts of the world. The Project Elijah Foundation Kosher Meals have appeared which take Mearsheimer and so closely allied with Czechoslovakia. Jewish misbehavior, or criminality. The his- “ [T]he sheer recklessness of your analy- will be sent to Ieladeinu, a Jewish Orphanage and Care Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina Walt to task for their shoddy scholarship and for Walt and Mearsheimer are careful to tory of the Arab- Israeli conflict recounted sis is, in my view, bound to make progress that cares for over 250 Jewish children who are the victims of abuse, neglect and poverty. playing on the most sinister Jewish stereotypes. say they are not anti-Semitic or conspiracy- here is comically one-sided, even by the towards a two-state solution more difficult. Watch your Synagogue and Temple bulletins, the Jewish Press and your mail boxes for our Excerpts from a number of reviews are pro- minded. But their main inference -- that standards of Israel’s revisionist historians. The controversy that has surrounded your “Grand Opening Event!” vided below, so that readers can get a generalized Israel, the Israel lobby and Jewish neo- In Mearsheimer and Walt’s telling, Israel is earlier paper and now the book will do What exactly will we be doing at the Project Elijah Foundation Kosher Meal packaging facil- view of the matter. It is recommended conservatives called the shots for Bush, perpetually the aggressor; it has never made a little to elevate the discussion and debate; it ity? We will be packing highly nutritious kosher meals to send to hungry Jewish children that readers follow-up by examining the Cheney, Condoleezza Rice, Stephen Hadley, serious move toward peace and compromise; will, because your work is so tendentiously and their families. These meals will consist of enriched soy, rice, dehydrated vegetables, critiques in their entirety. The evaluation by Colin Powell and Donald Rumsfeld -- is and its existence has never been threatened argued, put those within the Jewish com- and a vitamin/mineral flavoring mix. We will be packaging these meals in several produc- historian Benny Morris, referenced below, is of not only rubbish, it is dangerous rub- by the Arabs, who are portrayed as out- munity who actively advocate a two-state tion lines with 12 people per line, measuring and scooping the ingredients into the bags. particular importance. bish. As “mainstream” scholars, Walt and numbered, out-funded, and under-armed solution on the defensive lest their advocacy The bags will be sealed and boxed to send to Buenos Aires to be distributed there. Any questions or requests for further infor- Mearsheimer cannot avoid the historical victims of Zionist aggression. The Israel of seems to put them in league with you… mation on this topic may be directed to jcrc@ pedigree of this kind of charge. Every gen- Mearsheimer and Walt is simply unrecog- Methodologically, the book is a mess, Our formula for the meals has been evaluated and approved by the Iowa State University dmjfed.org eration has seen accusations that Jews have nizable to anyone who is halfway fair and adding unconnected little truths to one Food Science and Human Nutrition Department. These meals have a 3 year shelf life. To “Last year, Stephen Walt of Harvard dual loyalties, promote war and secretly halfway learned about the Middle East.” another as if together they constitute one prepare these meals, one only needs to add boiling water. The meals cost around 25 cents and John Mearsheimer of the University control political structures. – Jeffrey Goldberg, October 8, 2007 in The New big truth; relying far too heavily on second- and that includes shipping. Rabbi Yossi Jacobson of the Judaic Resource Center will be in of Chicago published a paper accusing These academics may not follow their Republic http://www.tnr.com/doc.mhtml?i=200 ary sources such as newspaper clippings charge of the Kosher certification of our meals. the “Israel Lobby” of having “unmatched claims all the way to anti-Semitism. But 71008&s=goldberg100807 and OpEd columns; riddled with internal In other news, the Project Elijah Foundation recieved a $4000 Discretionary Grant power” and managing to “manipulate the this is the way it begins. This is the way it I would have no such problems with contradiction.” presented to Alan Zuckert by Dr. Eric Schockman, the President of Mazon: A Jewish Re- American political system” into actions always begins. Mearsheimer and Walt had they openly – Leonard Fein, http://peacenowconversation. sponse to Hunger to Ieladeinu for the purchase of food. I know the children and the staff that undermine U.S. interests. . . Accusations – Michael Gerson, September 21, 2007 written the prescriptive book that hides org/?p=87 posted Sept. 27, 2007 were very glad to receive that gift. He has expressed interest in our Project Elijah Founda- of disproportionate Jewish influence are Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost. within this putatively dispassionate one. A substantive, historically-referenced tion meal packets and we are excited to introduce him to our program. as old as the pharaohs. The novelty here com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/09/20/ They want the United States to tilt toward criticism of Mearsheimer and Walt’s 2006 See you in the kosher food packing lines! is the endorsement of respected, main- AR2007092001959.html?hpid%3Dopinionsbox the Palestinians in the Middle East conflict academic paper was issued by Benny Morris stream academics … 1&sub=AR and to impose a geopolitical compromise in May 2006. continued on page 19 Janice Rosenberg, Project Elijah Foundation, Executive Director 1515 Linden Street Suite 205, Des Moines, Iowa 50309-3131 (515) 246-8001

f o r u p - t o - d a t e c o m m u n i t y s c h e d u l i n g jewishdesmoines.org

CONNECT WITH THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER DES MOINES

16 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 5

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 16-17 10/16/07 10:08:58 AM [education] B’nai Mitzvah Website Highlights Music During the The Connection Jewish Federation Community School Elisabeth Pusin by Stephen P. Blend, M.H.A., Executive Director, an almost ineffable emotional outpouring Saturday, November 17 Holocaust Iowa Jewish Senior Life Center amongst those gathered around the almemar HANUKKAH BEYOND PRESENTS [From ORT, www.ortamerica.org] World Accompanying these musings is a photo- - in the presence of the Shechinah. From “Tastes of Jewish Tradition” page 76 Tifereth Israel ORT has launched the single most exten- graph of Sally Frank, her daughter Chava, To be with our residents and their When most kids think about Hanukah, they tend to envision gifts and gelt. It’s a challenge to sive online resource for researching music and myself. This picture was taken on Rosh families, during this season of renewal, retain the spiritual significance of the holiday that often gets lost in the abundance of gifts. Lana and Boris Pusin during, and associated with, the Holocaust. Hashanah, after Sally had led The Life is a truly moving experience. Far from a Creating an atmosphere of moderation while children are young is the key to getting are delighted to an- By clicking on http://holocaustmusic. Center’s divine service. feeling of seeing residents adrift from their back to the true meaning of Hanukah. As a family, you can start new traditions that are nounce that our daugh- ort.org internet users can learn about a This year, we had the largest atten- lifetimes of connection with their loved both fun and rejuvenating by replacing some of the material gifts with personal or spiritual ter Elisabeth will be called to the Torah as a barely explored aspect of the Shoah with dance, in recent memory, at our services. ones and their community, there persists a gifts. Every night of Hanukah can be devoted to a special project or activity that will initiate Bat Mitzvah. Please join us for the ceremo- interactive maps, authoritative articles by Residents, their families, and community strong sense of deep-memory and belonging some thought, feelings, and conversation in your family. ny and the celebration. some of the world’s leading experts, and members joined together to reflect on the - an enduring sense of Connection. Idea 1: The “Grateful” Menorah: When you light the hanukkiah, ask everyone at the A Kiddush luncheon will be served follow- – most evocatively – audio of 68 pieces of year past and to make a commitment to love We are very grateful to Sally (and table to share something they are grateful for. ing the Morning Service. music including songs written in the camps and compassion in the year to come. Chava), as well as to Mark Forman, who Idea 2: Hanukah Mitzvah Fairy: Draw names from a hat and be a secret pal for the next and sung by survivors. Audio includes previ- Recent years have seen dramatic chang- led our Yom Kippur observance, for ensur- three days. Do a favor, leave coupons or sweet notes, complete one of their chores, or leave ously unheard recordings made by the Jewish es in both the physical and cognitive status ing a continuity of religious observance a small treat for the person you picked. Mazel Tov Historical Commission, in Munich, 1946, of Life Center residents. Along with these which serves, at its core, to maintain that Idea 3: Phone a friend or a relative and as a family, sing one of your favorite Hanukah Brad and Tami Goldman announce of survivors singing songs from the camps remarkable changes, the inevitable question Connection which sustains, honors, and songs over the telephone, and then wish them a Happy Hanukah. the birth of their son, Samuel Cohen as well as those, also recorded in 1946, by arises as to the extent to which our residents enriches the lives of our residents. Idea 4: Potluck Hanukah Brunch: Invite some friends and/or family over for a Sunday Goldman, born on Aug 10. research psychologist Dr. David Boder, who are able to fully appreciate the religious lit- morning brunch. Assign a festive dish for everyone to bring. Have a treasure hunt for hid- Muriel and Ed Sheppard celebrated interviewed survivors as they disembarked in urgy. The simple answer is that, while there den gelt. Share Hanukah songs and stories. their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug 11. New York. might not always be a full appreciation of Idea 5: Bake and decorate Hanukah Cookies as a family project and bring some to some- the ebb-and-flow of the service, the power To Jerry Hadenfeldt, honored among one who doesn’t have many family members or friends nearby. of Connection is still much in evidence. a select group at the Friends of Iowa Civil Tifereth Israel Women’s League cordially Idea 6: Create-A-Coupon Potpourri: Use your imagination and design coupons for future During the Rosh Hashanah services, the Rights Awards Luncheon for Exceptional invites you to services for family and friends, i.e. free back or foot massage, bake cookies, wash dishes, signs of recognition amongst the residents of Service. Jerry is Vice-President of Gov- A VERY SPECIAL TORAH FUND brush the dog. a connection to past, more robust, lives were ernment Relations at Meredith Corporation. LUNCHEON Idea 7: Hanukah Joke and Talent Night: Share your talents. Put together skits and make almost palpable. There was a recognition of up Hanukah jokes. For example: What has four feet and plays dreidel? (Two children) Why Sunday, November 4, 2007 are some menorahs like old cars? (They both burn oil.) Share Your at noon in the Social Hall. Idea 8: “Zot Hanukah” (This is Hanukah): The eighth night is called the climax of the $15.00 per person C e l e b ra t e I srael at 60 festival. What would be a special tradition for your family to start on this night? Leave the Good News Babysitting available upon request Seeds of Sun to Perform Jan 19 most awesome gifts for last. How about candle-making, or a candle light dinner with all the Send a photo and/or announcement of Featuring: “KOL ISHAH” lights turned off in the house? graduations, anniversaries, births and Cantor Deborah Bletstein, accompanied forms 7:00 pm Saturday January 19th at The awards by Nov. 26, for publication in by Karen Hutzell, will perform a variety of Caspe Terrace as part of the series celebrating the Jan/Feb ‘08 edition. Send to: Jewish music including Cantorial Gems, Israel’s 60th anniversary. This Award win- ning and critically acclaimed ensemble has by local Jewish families, Press, 910 Polk Blvd, Des Moines, IA selections from the Yiddish Theater and Babysitters Wanted transformed old-school Israeli music into JR/SR High School age. For more information call contact Lyanna Grund - 277-5566 50312 or by e-mail to [email protected] Broadway Musicals. Jewish Federation Community School students celebrate Sukkot an exciting eclectic mix of Jazz-Fusion and Call Gwen Griger at 537-1454. Brazilian grooves with a world beat. Tickets Pay at the door. In Cedar Rapids A New York-based five piece band which are $5 for adults, free for children 13 and Dershowitz to Speak brings new perspectives on World Jazz through younger. For additional information, call the JFCS BOOK FAIR on Israel Nov. 8 In Memoriam Israeli and South American influences per- Federation at 277-6321 x 214 Fill Gaps in Coverage Choose from over 100 titles • Something for everyone! Noted author, Harvard professor Alan We note with sorrow the recent passing of Auschwitz Survivor Visits Camp Dodge Dershowitz will present a defense for Israel’s Omaha’s Institute for Holocaust Education ment. He was liberated at Brescia, Italy in Sun, Nov. 11 9:30 am - 1:30 pm right to exist in peace at 7:30 pm, Thursday, Svyatoslav Dukarskiy (IHE) enabled Mr. Sami Jalilov to April of 1945 by troops from Iowa. Left, Temple B’nai Jeshurun Social Hall Nov. 8, at Coe College, in Cedar Rapids. Rose Epstein attend a reunion of the 34th Infantry Mr. Jalilov with with Our Money – This event is co-sponsored by the Religion Division to express gratitude for his lib- JCRC Director Join us for an exciting preview of new books, old favorites, plus Rachel Leiserowitz and Philosophy Department of Coe College eration by American troops during WW II. Mark Finkelstein, toys and CD’s. Orders taken will arrive before Hanukah. along with the Temple Judah Foundation. Arnold Levine Mr. Jalilov, a member of the Red Army, and on behalf of If you are unable to attend but would like an order form, please Tickets are free to the public, available of the Islamic faith, was taken prisoner by the IHE and Not Yours contact: Lyanna Grund, Director, JFCS at 277-5566 or [email protected] Mary Rubin through the Sinclair Auditorium Box Office the Nazis, sent to Auschwitz and forced on the Jewish com- Anna N. Kushkova will lecture title Inter-Ethnic and Inter-Confessional Relations: at (319) 399-8600.. Harold Schwartz a forty-day death march to another encamp- munity. Offering of Matzoh. Anna has a PH.D. in History and works at the Petersburg Judaica Medicare doesn’t cover all your medical expenses. Center/Ethnology Department for the European University at St. Petersburg, Russia. You need comprehensive Medicare supplement insurance She will speak between 10:00 am and 11:30 am at the Temple. to help pay the bills it doesn’t cover. You deserve to keep your hard- Anna will take orders for a selection of books published by the Petersburg Judaica Center. freshness: /fresh/adj 1: is deter- earned equity in your home We are excited to have the opportunity for Anna to speak in our community. mined from the time the fish is out of the For your free rate quote and information about the water to the time it gets to your table...and benefits and limits, call: nobody gets it there faster than Waterfront LuGene Isleman capture lasting memories with Seafood Market Restaurant • Wholesale • Licensed Real Estate Agent Steven Jay Frederick, President/A Life for Giving 515-229-2243 – Cell 666 Grand Avenue, 18th Floor-Suite 1818 a gift that lasts forever... 3220 100th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 HONOR YOUR GRANDPARENTS Urbandale, IA 50322 WEDDINGS Waterfront Seafood E-mail: 515-245-LIFE(5433) cell: 515-556-3750 [email protected] BIRTHDAYS Market • Restaurant Website: BIRTHS Wholesale dsm.nextgenerationrealty.com BAR / BAT MITZVAHS LuGene: CELEBRATE YOUR CHILDREN - Newcomer Agent of REMEMBER YOUR LOVED ONES the Year in 2005 “One person cannot plant a forest, Neither American Republic not our agents are affiliated with Medicare, Social Security or any other - #2 Agent in 2006 government agency. Rates based on attained age (except in AZ, GA and MO). but a community can plant a forest one tree at a time.” - $4,990 to sell any Clocktower Square priced home © 2006 American Republic Insurance Company, National Headquarters, Des Moines, IA 50309 Purchase a tree certificate – a gift that lasts forever. 2900 University Avenue Guarding your Real Estate Equity Policy Form Series: A-3146, A3161-62, A4027-30, A-4080m A-3404 et al. In MO, A-3403 et al. Jewish Federation Community School - 924 Polk Boulevard - Des Moines, IA 50312 West Des Moines, IA 50266 Not all policies available in all states. For $36, a tree certificate will be mailed to the recipient. Your $36 goes towards the 515-223-5106 Your Success is My Success! z-1099 purchase of trees, care and maintenance.

4 American The Republic Greater ad.indd Des Moines 1 Jewish Press 10/3/07 9:00:00 AM november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 17

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 4-5 10/16/07 10:12:35 AM Iowa Jewish Historical Society Message from the President the greater des moines Friends– As I write this, it’s mid-October. The weather, which has been unseasonably warm, has suddenly turned cool and brisk. This morning, I put on my favorite sweater. It felt like a hug from an old friend. Jewish By the time you read this, it will be November or December. The days will be short and cold, the nights long. At this time of year, can there be a better holiday than Chanukah? The beauty of the lights in the chanukiah, the aroma of frying latkes, the laughter of children playing dreidel—what a great way to bring light and life to the chill of late autumn. Press Story of a Daughter of Zion Chanukah, of course, celebrates the military victory of a small band of Jewish zealots over a much larger and bet- Published 6 times annually by the ter-equipped Syrian-Greek army. It’s also a celebration of Jewish identity. Our ancestors chose to fight for their faith. Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines Written By Bernard C. Marks in February of 1980 Neil Salowitz They knew that the odds were against them, but were willing to die fighting rather than assimilate. They didn’t have under the auspices of the Jewish (Excerpted by Janice Rosenberg; IJHS President) President to think about their Jewish identity—they lived it. Community Relations Committee When I was a sophomore in college, my Psychology 101 professor gave the class an exercise to complete. Advisory Committee Born in Vilkija, Lithuania five days before Pesach in 1882, Dina many hoof beats pierced the darkness. She tried to run faster. Water He handed out a sheet of paper, on which was printed, twenty times, one under the other, the phrase, “I am ______.” Heidi Moskowitz, Chair* Mary Kwesky was the middle child of the five children of Kopple splashed everywhere. She clutched her throat; her collar was cutting He instructed us to quickly complete the twenty phrases, writing the first things that came to mind. The exercise was Gil Cranberg* and Baileh Kwesky. At the tender age of ten, Dina Mary was appren- into her neck. She gasped, struggling as she felt herself being lifted designed to make us think about how we see ourselves and all the roles we play in our interaction with others. Debbie Gitchell* ticed to a dressmaker, earning by some force above her. She The first few were easy: “I am a man.” “I am a student.” “I am hungry.” After that, however, it became more Harlan Hockenberg* but one ruble a week. was carried to the riverbank. difficult to define myself. By the eighteenth phrase, I was writing things like, “I am bored out of my skull in this class.” Sheldon Rabinowitz* When her father died and A Cossack horseman had pre- To my surprise, among the first things I wrote, however, was, “I am Jewish.” My Jewish identity had just begun to Mark S. Finkelstein,* Editor conditions became bad, she was vented her escape. reawaken after years of neglect. I was one of those kids whose Jewish education ended with Bar Mitzvah. For most of Thomas Wolff, Art/Marketing Director determined to find employment Dina Mary spent the night junior high and high school, my Jewish identity lay dormant. Thanks to a perceptive and caring campus rabbi (who as a seamstress in the United at the police headquarters and remains a friend to this day), I rediscovered who I was. *Editorial Board States. Eagerly, she accepted was sent home the next day. If you completed the exercise I’ve described, where would you place, “I am Jewish”? Would it be first or second, Neil Salowitz, the opportunity to live with Several weeks later, she right up there with, “I am a woman (or man),” “I am a resident of Des Moines,” or, “I am a tennis player?” Would it President, Jewish Federation and to help her ailing great aunt tried again with a new driver, be somewhere further down the list? Would it appear on the list at all? JCRC Chair Besheh Rubinovitch (Bessie and was successful. At Bremen, We live in a wonderful country, at a wonderful time. Overt anti-Semitism is rare in this country. The Gentile Robinson, 1833-1907), who was Germany she booked passage world no longer forces us to acknowledge our Jewish identity. Our employment, marriage and lifestyle choices are no Elaine Steinger, living in Des Moines, Iowa. on the USS Maryland and longer dictated by the outside world, or by the iron fist of tradition. Our choices are endless, and therein lies a trap. Executive Director, Jewish Federation Leaving Lithuania was embarked on a 12 day voyage, Today, we have to CHOOSE to be Jewish. Most of us are born Jewish, of course, but is that enough? Will an The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press not an easy matter. Dina Mary landing in New York City in the accident of birth sustain us as a community and as a people? 910 Polk Blvd. Des Moines, IA 50312 made two attempts. The first spring of 1899. It seems to me that in ‘07, if we’re to retain those characteristics that make us Jewish, it’s not sufficient merely to say that 515-277-6321 [email protected] was foiled by the agent hired to Shortly thereafter, on May we’re Jewish. We need to do the things that nurture our Jewish identify, things that remind us of who we are, and why. Opinions expressed in The Greater haul a group of emigrants to the 16, the second day of Shavuot, You’ve heard the old joke that if there are two Jews, there will be three opinions. There are as many opinions Des Moines Jewish Press are not neces- German border. Anticipating Dina Mary continued her jour- about halacha and Jewish practice as there are Jews in this community. Nonetheless, there are things on which we can sarily those of the Jewish Federation of a reward, no doubt, he had ney to Des Moines. On January all agree. Among these are the ideals embodied in Isaiah 58, the passage we read during our Yom Kippur fast: Greater Des Moines, its committees, or informed the local police. 15, 1900 she married her great “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the fetters of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the its staff. Unsigned editorials express the It was dusk when the horse- aunt’s son Louis Robinson oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are opinion of the paper’s Editorial Board. drawn wagon reached its des- (1875-1952). They made their cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him, and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” tination, a shallow point along home in a small room at the Paid advertising by candidates for elec- the river boundary. The wagon back of his hardware store and We are not Jewish by virtue of being compassionate, caring and generous. We are these things BECAUSE we tive office is welcome but does not con- halted and the anxious group began housekeeping with a table, are Jewish. Jews certainly don’t have a monopoly on compassion or generosity, but our sacred texts and our tradition stitute endorsement by agencies affiliat- was cautioned to descend qui- 2 chairs and a bed. elevate these concepts to the level of holiness. ed with the Jewish Federation of Greater etly and then to “RUN!!!” Dina Mary and Louis The Jewish Federation’s 2008 All-in-One Campaign is one way to express your Jewish ideals and identity. Des Moines. Inserts to the Jewish Press The men, Dinah Mary Robinson had three children: Throughout the year, you are solicited by a variety of charities. None, however, are as immediately beneficial to your may not necessarkly bear endorcement asserted, had no difficulty. This Jack Stanley (1902-1973), Rose Jewish community as a whole as the Federation’s Campaign. Though your gifts, you can have an immediate impact. of the Jewish Federation was not her case however, nor (b.1904) and Zisel (1914-1917). You give our children a Jewish education, you care for our elderly, you support and defend Israel and fight against the We are always happy to receive articles that of another woman who This story was written by Bernard resurgence of anti-Semitism in this country. But, as well, we should all be thinking about what we can do to build and contributions for consideration. was traveling with a young son. Marks who is the son of Rose a future for our people. Just imagine what we can do -- together – to ensure there will be a bright future for our We reserve the right to edit submissions In the time it took for them to Dina Mary Kwesky and Louis Robinson (aka Leib Rubinovitch) (Robinson) and Norman Marks. grandchildren and their children. for space considerations and clarity. climb down, the border guards at their wedding in Des Moines on January 15, 1900. Bernard was kind enough to You’ll be hearing more about our Campaign. You may be asked to volunteer some time to help with the fundrais- Vol. 24 No. 2, Nov/Dec 2007 stationed on a hill nearby were According to their grandson, Bernard C. Marks: Louis was 25; send photos and stories of the ing effort. I hope that you’ll answer the call of your Jewish heart and be generous with your time and your money. alerted to the activity below. Dina Mary 17. Trained as a seamstress in Kaunus, Lithuania, Kweskin Family from Lithuania As you kindle the Chanukah lights, think about what it means to YOU to be Jewish. Dina Mary lifted her skirt she made her wedding gown. It was of a light blue fabric to the Jewish Historical Society. May the light of the candles warm your heart during the cold days of December. and dashed into the cold water. and with white lace trimming. Her fan and veil were also Are there any more relatives in the Angry shouts and the sounds of white, and she wore a gold watch and chain. Des Moines area? B’Shalom, Neil

festive and formal He will be missed, he will be remembered A Family Mission to invitations for Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Slava Dukarsky Israel Set for June ‘08 weddings, graduations and other Slava Dukarsky, our dear friend… Death caught him when he was aboard the plane head- Be part of the excitement! Come celebrate special occasions ing to New York. He was going to meet his friend to celebrate the friend’s anniversary. It Israel’s 60th anniversary of independence • calligraphy services seems that fate has decreed otherwise… – in Israel – with friends and family, on a • professional assistance The news about Slava’s death was shocking and inconceivable. It is absolutely impossible special Mission prepared by the Jewish extraordinary gifts for family and friends to imagine him dead, he was so lively, energetic, athletic-looking, handsome, always Federation in conjunction with Amiel Tours. The ten day trip is scheduled to depart • baby boutique smiling. Open and outgoing, he was the heart of every company and a very welcome visitor in every Russian-Jewish home. Thursday, June 5th and return on Sunday, • wedding accessories June 15th. Subsidies will be available from Across the nation and • shower gifts Slava’s background is that of the most exceptional and brightest person: gold medal from high the Jewish Federation to qualified appli- around the world, celebra- school, diploma with honors from the Technical University, and a position of manager at one of cants. For more information, contact the tions are plannedFEDERA toTI comON- of Greater Des Moines the most prestigious scientific institutes in Moscow. A talented engineer and scientist, he was memorate Israel’s 60th Clocktower Square Federation at 277-6321 x 214 or e-mail to also intellectual and comprehensively educated. There is hardly a field of knowledge he wasn’t 2900 University Avenue [email protected] year of independence. In an expert on - science, literature, history, music, theatre, languages, to name just a few. West Des Moines, Iowa 50266 Central Iowa, the Jewish 515-223-6205 Slava was a devoted father and grandfather, and he was faithful to the memory of his late Federation invites you to wife whose burial urn he brought from Moscow. “She will be with me till my very last day,” join in the year-long cel- he said. Now, she is forever with him, as their urns are buried side by side. ebration – including con- certs, a film series, discus- Like a bright comet, Slava Dukarsky flashed out on Iowa’s firmament to make our life brighter, sions, a birthday party, and and vanished suddenly from sight. But not from our hearts where he will remain evermore. a family Mission to Israel Milla Verkhov-Karno, scheduled for June 08. On behalf of the Russian-Jewish community members The fun starts now!

18 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 3

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 18-19 10/16/07 10:09:06 AM [history] Book from page 16 the Morris’ critique is worth reading in its entirety and is online at www.standwi- thus.com/pdfs/flyers/Response%20from Hanukah %20Benny%20Morris.pdf “Mearsheimer and Walt build their Hanukah is one of the few Jewish holidays not mentioned in the Bible. The detail when, where, and how the Hanukah lights should be lit. case mainly by means of omission: they tell story of how Hanukah came to be is contained in the books of 1 and 2 Completed approximately 600 years after the events of the certain facts while omitting others, some- Maccabees, which are not part of the Jewish canon of the Hebrew Bible. Maccabees, the Talmud contains the extant version of the famous [ ] times more apt and crucial. And occasion- These books tell the story of the Maccabees, a small band story of the miraculous jar of oil that burned for eight days. The calendar ally they distort facts and figures. of Jewish fighters who liberated the Land of Israel from the Talmud relates this story in the context of a discussion about the The thesis of their study, which was Syrian Greeks who occupied it. Under the reign of Antiochus IV fact that fasting and grieving are not allowed on Hanukah. In order november • december supported by the John F. Kennedy School Epiphanes, the Syrian Greeks sought to impose their Hellenistic to understand why the observance of Hanukah is so important, the of Government at Harvard University, culture, which many Jews found attractive. By 167 BCE, Antiochus Rabbis recount the story of the miraculous jar of oil. is that America’s support of Israel runs intensified his campaign by defiling the Temple in Jerusalem and Perhaps the Amoraim--the sages of the Talmud--were retelling Thursday, November 1 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace contrary to American national interests, banning Jewish practice. The Maccabees-- led by the five sons of the an old oral legend in order to associate the holiday with what they and that it is not grounded in “a compel- priest Mattathias-- especially Judah-- waged a three-year campaign believed to be a blatant, supernatural miracle. Although the seem- 7:00 pm JELI classes at The Life Center ling moral case.” To establish the latter that culminated in the cleaning and rededication of the Temple. ingly miraculous victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greeks contention, they deny that Israel is the Since they were unable to celebrate the holiday of Sukkot at was certainly part of the holiday narrative, this event still lies within Saturday, November 4 10:00 am James Steadham Bar Mitzvah in Ames weaker party in the Arab-Israeli conflict; its proper time in early autumn, the victorious Maccabees decided the natural human realm. The Rabbis may have felt this to be insuf- and that it is a democracy; and that Sunday, November 4 noon Tifereth Torah Fund Luncheon and Musical Program that Sukkot should be celebrated once they rededicated the Temple, ficient justification for the holiday’s gaining the legal stature that “Israel’s conduct has been morally supe- which they did on the 25th of the month of Kislev in the year 164 would prohibit fasting and include the saying of certain festival rior to [that of] its adversaries.” … Tuesday, November 6 6:30 pm The Impressionists & Glass Art Class at BCE. Since Sukkot lasts eight days, this became the time frame prayers. Therefore the story of a supernatural event centering on the In their introduction, Mearsheimer adopted for Hanukah. oil --a miracle --would unquestionably answer any concerns about The Caspe Terrace and Walt tell their readers that “the About 250 years after these events, the first-century Jewish the legitimacy of celebrating the holiday. facts recounted here are not in serious historian Flavius Josephus wrote his account of the origins of the Hanukah gained new meaning with the rise of Zionism. As the Thursday, November 8 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace dispute among scholars.... The evidence holiday. Josephus referred to the holiday as the Festival of Lights and early pioneers in Israel found themselves fighting to defend against on which they rest is not controversial.” not as Hanukah. Josephus seems to be connecting the newfound attacks, they began to connect with the ancient Jewish fighters who Saturday, November 10 10:00 am nathan Buchsbaum Bar Mitzvah at the Temple This is ludicrous. I would offer their liberty that resulted from the events with the image of light, and the stood their ground in the same place. The holiday of Hanukah, readers a contrary proposition: that the holiday is still often referred to by the title Josephus gave it. with its positive portrayal of the Jewish fighter, spoke to the reality Sunday, November 11 9:30 pm JFCS Book Fair & Kushkova program at the Temple “facts” presented by Mearsheimer and By the early rabbinic period about a century later--at the time that of the early Zionists who felt particularly connected to the message Walt suggest a fundamental ignorance of the Mishnah (the first compilation of oral rabbinic law included in the of freedom and liberty. Monday, November 12 7:00 pm keshet Eilon concert at The Caspe Terrace the history with which they deal, and that Talmud) was redacted--the holiday had become known by the name of Hanukah began to find new expression in the years leading up the “evidence” they deploy is so tenden- Hanukah (Dedication). However, the Mishnah does not give us any to the founding of the modern state of Israel. In the post-Holocaust Tuesday, November 13 6:30 pm The Impressionists & Glass Art Class at Caspe tious as to be evidence only of an acute details concerning the rules and customs associated with the holiday. world, Jews are acutely aware of the issues raised by Hanukah: bias. That is what will be not in serious It is in the Gemara (a commentary on the Mishnah) of the oppression, identity, religious freedom and expression, and the need Thursday, November 15 6:30 pm Pastels Art Class at The Caspe Terrace dispute among scholars. Babylonian Talmud that we are given more details and can clearly see to fight for national independence. Hanukah has developed into a –Benny Morris, a professor of Middle East his- the development of both the holiday and the stories associated with it. holiday rich with historical significance, physical and supernatural Saturday, November 17 9:00 am elisabeth Pusin Bat Mitzvah at Tifereth tory at Ben-Gurion University, is the author, The discussion of Hanukah is mentioned in Tractate Shabbat. Only miracle narratives, and a dialogue with Jewish history. most recently, of The Birth of the Palestinian three lines are devoted to the events of Hanukah while three pages Courtesy of www.myjewishlearning.com Sunday, November 18 6:00 pm interfaith Thanksgiving program at Tifereth Refugee Problem Revisited (Cambridge University Press). Monday, November 19 7:00 pm Federation Board of Directors at The Caspe Terrace On this topic, CAMERA.org updates links to articles and reviews. United Way Donors Jewish Family Services Tuesday, November 27 5:00 pm iJSLC Board Meeting Did you know that you can designate part senior news Saturday, December 1 10:00 am Paul DeShetler Bar Mitzvah at the Temple or all of your United Way contribution to Sunday, December 2 6:00 pm Zarnow 50th Anniversary Concert at Beth El Jacob Babysitters Jewish Family Services? Upcoming Wednesday, December 5 5:30 pm JFCS Community Hanukah Celebration Wanted Luncheons: by local Jewish families, The money received through these designations helps the Sunday, December 9 5:00 pm Tifereth Gala Hanukah Dinner Thursday, December 6th JR/SR High School age. Federation pay for... For more information call contact 12:00 Noon, at Temple B’nai Jeshurun Monday, December 17 7:00 pm Federation Executive Committee at the Federation Jewish Family Services - Individuals, families, seniors and children WHAT’S NEW FOR MEDICARE IN Lyanna Grund - 277-5566 Senior Adult Programs - Senior Adult luncheons and case management 2008- PART D AND MORE. The latest in- Saturday, December 22 7:00 pm grant Oxer Bar Mitzvah at the Temple Resettlement Program - Case management and health services to immigrants formation on Medicare drug coverage for 2008 and other changes to Medicare will Jewish Family Life Education be highlighted in a program offered by the Outreach - Baby baskets, welcoming newcomers PEER Advocate Program. A counselor, We all had a very eventful and wonder- Volunteer Opportunities - Numerous volunteer projects Gail Hutchinson, with the Senior Health Insurance Information Program(SHIIP) ful time at Prairie Meadows. Everyone Come see the difference between Tzedakah - last year assisted 180 community members in need will present the program. SHIIP will dis- enjoyed a free buffet lunch and partici- dressed and well-dressed... cuss changes to Medicare drug plans for pated in many activities such as the the next year, explain two types of plans live band music and dancing, playing Thank you offered, and share news about Medicare table games or enjoyed themselves at to all who have contributed through United Way. Please remember Part B premiums, deductibles and the slot machines. that your gift to Jewish Family Services through United co-payments. Way has to be re-designated each year. Thursday, January 10th 12:00 Noon at Tifereth Israel Synagogue We are looking forward to having Federa- tion President and storyteller, Neil Salow- itz, entertain us with his delightful talent. It Patronize our will be a fun and enjoyable time! Advertisers. Tell them you saw their ad in the Jewish Press. Seniors enjoy interacting with a volun- teer at a recent luncheon! outreach, activities and services [ To advertise in the Jewish Press, for independent seniors call us at 277-6321! ] The Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines is a beneficiary of United Way JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES

2 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07 november/december 07 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press 19

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 2-3 10/16/07 10:12:29 AM 2008 Campaign Challenge Heshvan/kislev/Tevet 5768 november/December 07 – th e G r e a t e r D e s M O i n e s $1,000,000 – 950,000 Jewish Press – Published as a Community Service by the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines online at jewishdesmoines.org • volume 24 number 2

900,000 Tifereth Israel Synagogue – C e l e b ra t e I srael at 60 Cantor Adds 850,000 hAPPY The Keshet Eilon Trio in Depth to – Hanukah Concert, November 12 Services From Israel’s world-renowned Keshet Eilon master vio- The superb voice one Begins on the evening 800,000 lin program comes two young virtuoso violinists, 1st hears from the bimah of December 4 prize winners in international competition, Semion at Tifereth Israel – Gavrikov and Hed Yaron-Meirson. A brilliant pianist, Synagogue these days is Julia Gurvitch, rounds out the ensemble. The trio that of the synagogue’s 750,000 will perform a program of Brahms, Shostakovich, newly appointed can- Massenet and Sarasate, 7:00 pm at The Caspe tor, Deborah Bletstein. – Terrace. As a special treat, the program will be intro- Cantor Bletstein earned 700,000 duced by Maestro Joseph Giunta, Music Director Cantor Deborah investiture and a and Conductor of the Des Moines Symphony. Bletstein Master’s in Sacred Music – Co-sponsored by the Jewish Federation and the from Jewish Theological Federation’s Partnership with Israel region, the Seminary in May and began work at the 650,000 Western Galilee. The program is free of charge. synagogue during the latter part of the sum- Semion Gavrikov, born in Ukraine in 1985, mer. In September, she conducted High – Senior News began playing the violin at age five under Igor Holiday services along with Rabbi Padorr. Kuzmienko. A laureate of the Odessa competition An article about both Rabbi Padorr and 600,000 this month… - page 2 (1994, 1996), he was 1st prize winner of the Young Cantor Bletstein recently appeared in the through Jewish Family Services, you helped to provide Virtuoso, Ukraine (1996, 1998), and New Names (1996). Moving to Israel in 1998, he Des Moines Register and was carried in the – studied at the Israel Conservatory of Music, Tel Aviv, with Lena Mazor and continues to Chicago Tribune, as well. case-management for 104 seniors by a licensed social worker and study with Irena Svetlova at the Buchmann-Mehta School of Music, Tel Aviv University. “We are all very excited to welcome 550,000 psychologist. We provide daily services that include: purchasing A laureate of the 2004 Rubin Academy Competition and 1st prize winner of the 2006 Cantor Bletstein on board,” said Dr. Marty Claremont Competition, Tel Aviv, Semion has been supported by the America-Israel Rosenfeld, the synagogue’s president. “The – medical equipment, visiting nurses, in-home health care, Cultural Foundation, Joshua Rabinovich Foundation, Buchmann-Heyman Foundation, skills and talents she brings have already 500,000 housekeeping services, nutritional services, medical supervision, daily Isaac Stern Foundation and Zfunot Tarbut. He is a graduate of the Jerusalem Music Center begun to enhance our worship services and phone calls, volunteer social interaction that includes transportation Young Musicians Unit, Perlman Music Program, and the Keshet Eilon Mastercourse, attend- we know that she will become very popular – ing masterclasses with Itzhak Perlman, Ivry Gitlis, Ida Haendel, Shlomo Mintz, Vadim in our congregation and in the community.” to doctors and for groceries, exercise, reading, social visits and Gluzman, Zakhar Bron and Pinhas Zukerman. He has appeared as a soloist with the Israel continued on page 9 450,000 outings. These services keep our senior community healthy, happy Philharmonic, Ukraine Philharmonic, and Moskovia Chamber Orchestra. Family Mission to Hed Yaron-Meirson, born in Israel in 1989, began violin studies at age four, instructed community – and independent in their own homes! by Sali Bokel, Mira Massin, David Chen, and currently by Hagai Shaham at the Jerusalem Hanukah Israel - page 3 Academy of Music. He was 1st prize winner in the 2005 Turjeman (Israel) and 2006 Janacek 400,000 (Vienna) competitions and laureate of the 2005 Israel Broadcasting Authority and 2006 Celebration, Jerusalem Academy competitions. He performed with the IBA and the Thelma Yellin High December 5 – imagine what we can School of the Arts orchestras. Appearances in concerts and festivals in Israel and Europe were Come enjoy the second night of Hanukah broadcast by Israel Radio and TV and by French and Austrian Radio. continued on page 15 with friends at The Jewish Federation 350,000 Community School’s Community do together next month! An Inter-religious Thanksgiving Hanukkah Celebration, 5:30 – 7:30 pm, – on Wednesday, December 5th. Join the Service, Nov. 18 community for dinner, crafts and games for 300,000 the kids, and a candlelighting program led The Jewish Community Relations Commission will partner with Faith Lutheran Church of by Cantor Deborah Bletstein and Cantorial – Clive in presenting the area’s first Inter-religious Thanksgiving Service, Sunday, November The 2008 AnnuAl CampaigN Soloist Laura Berkson. Dance to the tunes 250,000 18, 6:00 pm at Tifereth Israel Synagogue. Members of all faith communities are invited of the Java Jews Klezmer Band. Location: – chaired by Neil Salowitz and Judy Deutch Jewish Federation to participate in the program, in thanksgiving for our religious freedom in America. The Tifereth Israel Synagogue. RSVP to JFCS Community service was constructed by Rabbi David Kaufman of Temple B’nai Jeshurun and Pastor so we can make enough latkes and sufganiot – The Jewish Federation offers a central coordinating body for the Jewish Community. Dave Nerdig of Faith Lutheran Church. For information contact Dorothea at the Jewish for everyone. Contact [email protected] or Of all of the roles the Federation plays, none is more important than providing an opportunity School - page 4 Federation at 277-6321 x 218 or [email protected]. Refreshments will be served. call 277-5566. 200,000 for you to care and join with others. Whether you are new in the community or a familiar face, – somewhere along the way the Federation will touch your life… We invite you to help build our Jewish community to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines Non-Profit Organization 150,000 Find out how to help by visiting www.jewishdesmoines.org. Make your tax-deductive gift on- [inside] 910 Polk Boulevard U.S. Postage line by clicking “Ways to Give.” Des Moines, IA 50312-2297 Paid – Des Moines, IA 6 Torah talk - Truth Permit No. 2506 100,000 Address Service Requested 7 Consolation, Justice and Healing October 1, 2007 – $54,220. 00 – 50,000 9 Save the environment – 13 Chef du Jour: Ron Rosenblatt Don’t forget, you can designate Jewish Family 0 Services when you donate to United Way! 18 Story of a Daughter of Zion

20 The Greater Des Moines Jewish Press november/december 07

nov dec 07 print spreads.indd 2-1 10/16/07 10:12:26 AM