5Tjt Education Forum

See Pages 49 & 79

See Pages 3, 4 & 5 $1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM VOL. 10 NO. 36 6 TAMMUZ 5770 ,ej ,arp JUNE 18, 2010 INSIDE FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK NEW CHAREIDI PROTESTS Promoting Peace BY LARRY GORDON Rabbi Dovid Weinberger 26 Gutsy Or Nutsy Living With The Rebbe Hannah Reich Berman 31 Who would have ever MindBiz thought back then that some- Esther Mann, LMSW 36 day the Lubavitch worldwide Fifth Of Tammuz community would have to live Larry Domnitch 41 without the personal presence of the Rebbe, Rav Menachem P h o

Mendel Schneerson, zt’l? This t Right Of Return o B y A

week, we marked 16 years since s s

Rabbi Avi Shafran 47 o c i a t e

his passing, and he was virtually d P r e s out of commission for quite a s while prior to that. So, it’s been The Israeli police are preparing for the possibility of nationwide a long time, but also the oddest disturbances by charedi protesters following a high court decision to of times for a movement that imprison parents who flouted a ruling in which the court declared that policies at an Orthodox elementary school in Emmanuel result in ethnic was supposed to dissipate as segregation. Officials are urging restraint, in an attempt to minimize violent clashes between police and civilians as are known to occur Continued on Page 6 Lubavitcher Rebbe during large protests. See Page 74 5TJT EDUCATION FORUM HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE Guide To Local Keep A Garden(er) Party Oliner elected mayor of Boys’ Yeshivas BY LARRY GORDON challenged, are those otherwise Lawrence. See Page 53 Holding On innocuous flowers that pop out Weeds were everywhere of a usually unkempt lawn and B Y RENEE JERET The Year In Israel, Part 3 across an otherwise fairly nice are the type of growth that usu- BY TALMID X and sprawling lawn both in ally inhibits the ability of other Summer is approaching. front and back of the house. Not plant life in the area to flourish. Students are thinking about Ahhh . . . June! It’s the most knowing too much about gar- So what happened to my gar- final exams and summer camp, wonderful time of the year. The dening, I’d just been walking by dener? Was he okay? Did he hopefully in that order. Parents weather’s getting warmer, the and taking cursory glances over return for a visit to South are worrying a bit about both. days are getting longer, and these last few weeks and think- America and fail to come back Eighth-graders are looking for- school’s almost out. Normally, ing nothing of it. Silly me—little for some reason? I was at a loss. ward to graduation ceremonies these are all good things. did I know that this was my gar- I just did not know. Over the and the challenges of high But not for us. Not this year. dener’s way of expressing that last decade he has become a school. These boys and their For seniors graduating from he wasn’t happy with us, our silent member of my family. He house, or our garden. Continued on Page 15 Continued on Page 14 Weeds, for the horticulturally Continued on Page 12 White Shul BBQ. See Page 75 Great Cantorial Event Ladies, It’s A PAINFUL CRY Not Just Men! FOR KAVOD BY SHOSHANA KAHN, MD HATORAH B Y RAV ARYEH Z. When we hear about it, we GINZBERG think that it’s something just for CHOFETZ CHAIM TORAH CENTER men, like the announcement for z’man keriyas Shema that they As most of the readers of my make in shul in the morning. articles over the years surely Well, take it from me, it’s defi- know, the goal of my writings MAY softball champs. nitely not just for men. And it’s in general is to try to convey to See Page 56 definitely a problem. the best of my abilities the Heart disease is not just a thoughts and hashkafos of my The annual cantorial concert in memory of Moshe Ehrlich took place last man’s problem. Women get it great rebbeim and/or of the CANDLE LIGHTING week at Congregation Beth Sholom in Lawrence. Performing at the too. Heart disease is the lead- gedolei ha’dor in relation to concert were Chazzan Yitzchak Meir Helfgot and Beth Sholom’s own June 18 – 8:10 PM Chazzan Joel Kaplan. Above (L–R): Alan Bankhalter, concert chairman; ing cause of death for contemporary issues. June 25 – 8:11 PM Joel Wiener, co-sponsor; Lester Henner, past president of Beth Sholom; Chazzan Helfgot; and Ben Brafman, co-sponsor. See Page 56 Continued on Page 16 Continued on Page 20 2 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 3 4 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES FEATURES

Around The Five Towns 53 P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 516-984-0079 Beneath The Law [email protected] [email protected] Daniel Friedman, Esq. 42 LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON Classified Ads 68 Publisher/Editor Managing Editor YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON Daf Yomi Insights Sales Managers Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow 27 CHANA ROCHEL ROSS Editorial Assistant The Dish SIDI BARON Elke Probkevitz 30 YAKOV SERLE Sales Representatives Five Towns Simcha SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC Suri Adams Photography 75 Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor Naomi Cohen/Glamorous Pics 77 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Ira Thomas Creations 78 Hannah Reich Berman, Anessa V. Cohen, Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg, Toby Klein Greenwald, Insights On The Torah Rabbi Yair Hoffman, R’ Yanki Tauber 40 Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, Shmuel Katz, Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann, Rochelle Miller, The Legendary . . . Elke Probkevitz, Naomi Ross, Dr. Rachael Schindler, Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, . . . Danny O’Doul 34 Rabbi Avi Shafran, Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher, Samuel Sokol Luach 16 DOV GORDON, ELISHEVA ELEFANT Staff Graphic Artists MindBiz Esther Mann, LMSW 36 IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS Staff Photographers Mother’s Musings FRANKEL & CO. Phyllis J. Lubin 39 Design & Production TALIYE CORLEY Puzzle Art Director Yoni Glatt 45 COREL THEUMA Assistant Art Director Real Estate Anessa V. Cohen 49 The Five Towns Jewish Times is an independent weekly newspaper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not That’s The Way It Is! responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or Hannah Reich Berman 31 establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 5 FROM THE EDITOR The crowds were immense. I saw Continued from Front Cover many of my old friends, perhaps with a little more gray in their hair or beards time went on. than the last time. It seems that as each I try to make it my business to visit the year passes, those overseeing this event Rebbe’s kever in Cambria Heights, Queens come up with new and more efficient several times each year and in particular approaches that enable them to accom- on the day of his yahrzeit, which was this modate such a large crowd in such a past Tuesday, the third of Tammuz. I small area over this relatively small win- reside nearby—maybe a 15-minute dow of time. Two single lines were drive—so I have, at times, felt uncomfort- formed for men and women that spilled able taking up space on line next to peo- out onto the sidewalk. Above the heads ple who’ve just flown in from Russia or of those waiting online were large-screen California and are returning directly after video monitors of some old weekday their few minutes of communing in the fahbrengens that were wisely recorded stone structure that houses the burial for posterity a long time ago. As the peo- grounds of the Rebbe and his father-in- ple inched along, they could either read law, the previous Rebbe, Rav Yosef or study some of the liturgy or literature Yitzchok Schneerson, zt’l. I could hop pertaining to the yahrzeit that was being over there anytime, at the spur of a distributed. P h o t o f r o m C O L L i v e P h o t o f r o m C O L L i v e

moment. The yahrzeit, however, is differ- The tens of thousands who assembled ent and even unusual. there over the previous few days were At what point in that 24-hour period chassidim and/or admirers of the Rebbe is it best to go? Over the years I have for any combination of reasons. Many found the quietness and the solitude at felt close and were indeed intimates of the Ohel late at night to be the most the Rebbe. Many of these men and satisfying and fulfilling. This past women on line and milling around this Monday night, shortly after the sun large and expansive burial ground never had set and the scattered minyanim for met or even saw the Rebbe during his life- Maariv had begun, it quickly became time. Most likely there is no event like clear that this was going to be one very this that takes place at a cemetery outside busy yahrzeit for the Rebbe. The first of Eretz Yisrael. sign was the impossibility of finding a My memories of the Rebbe come from parking space unless it was a few various events and experiences I can blocks away from the entrance to the assign to different stations in life. For cemetery. In addition, the New York example, I remember visiting the Rebbe a City police were everywhere. If you week or so before my bar mitzvah. It was thought of slowing down or double a weekday and the sun was shining parking for just a few moments, there through the windows of his office on was almost instantly a police car with a Eastern Parkway. He stood in front of his flashing light behind you strongly sug- gesting that you move on. Continued on Page 8 6 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 7 FROM THE EDITOR birthday. I can’t say I do it every day, but ular attendee of the Shabbos afternoon niggunim. I found a used whiskey cup Continued from Page 6 on the days that I do recite that section of fahbrengens that were the centerpiece of and someone poured a little mashkeh Tehilim, I also catch a glimpse of that Crown Heights for so many years, some- into it. I offered it up into the direction desk, I think even leaning partly against almost-13-year-old boy, a little nervous but thing got into me to pack into my moth- of the Rebbe, muttering the word “l’chay- the desk in what seemed to be a comfort- standing there intently listening. er’s house with my four small children. im” repeatedly, waiting to make eye con- able position. I stood opposite the Rebbe I visited again with my future wife a That Shabbos afternoon, instead of tact. Then he did, nodding his head in with my father at my side. The Rebbe few weeks before we were married. A going to sleep, I went to 770 and to the what looked to me like my direction, wished me well on traversing this great decade later, I passed the Rebbe in a pri- fahbrengen. I immersed myself in the and I drank it all up. threshold in Jewish life. He also advised vate session with my extended family crowd that was gathered and listened to That was a great day for me. I didn’t me to say the chapter in Tehilim daily after we arose from shivah for my father. English translations of the Rebbe’s talks know exactly why or what I was doing that corresponds to my age at my next A few years later, though I was not a reg- when he paused as the chassidim sang there on that Shabbos, but it became clearer during the ensuing week. During that week, the Rebbe collapsed while visiting his father-in-law’s graveside. Amongst other things, as a result of a stroke, the Rebbe lost his ability to speak. I had attended the last formal fahbrengen. I had heard him speak for the last time. Then there were the little things that I remember about the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Like me playing outside the shul on an early Shabbos morning and watching the Rebbe walk to shul. Or on some other Shabbos days observing the Rebbe walking down Kingston Avenue just like any of us on the way to visit his mother. Then there was another time as we were on the way to the airport to bury my father and the funeral procession drove by 770 Eastern Parkway. The Rebbe was 86 years old and had ceased personally participating in levayas. It was a cold, snowy Thursday morning and someone on the inside told me that when we pulled up to the front of the building, the Rebbe grabbed his coat and ran outside to join the others to bid a final farewell to my dad. The Rebbe’s love for his fellow Jews was unparalleled. He struggled and

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8 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 9 FROM THE EDITOR Continued from Page 8 worked relentlessly to connect all of us as well as the entire people of Israel with our destiny—the endeavor to realize peace and harmony in the world with the arrival of Mashiach. He pushed for this with all his heart and soul. This is the point where we get to the most sensitive and even controversial aspect of the Chabad movement. And that is the iden- tification of the Rebbe with the concept of Moshiach and the nature of that dynamism and the fashion in which the concept interfaces with the occurrence of the Rebbe’s passing away 16 years ago. Clearly, despite vast amounts of discussion of the subject in numerous sefarim, the circumstances surrounding the ultimate redemption of the Jewish people, along with the purpose of G-d’s intended plan for creation, remains obscure and even mysterious to us. From that perspective it remains nothing less than exploita- tive to bandy about the subject of the life of the Rebbe from the simplistic stand- point of academicians trolling for sensa- tionalism that can cause a furor, ignite disputes, and sell some books. Such is the case with the recent release of The Life and the Afterlife of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, by Professors Samuel Heilman and Menachem Friedman. The book floats the suggestion that Rabbi Schneerson decided to pursue becoming the Rebbe after it seemed that the idea of becoming an engineer and living in Paris began to fall apart with the advent of World War II. Obviously the authors’ approach was to deal with the subject matter of the Rebbe’s brilliance and scholarship from a mundane and even crass perspective that would potentially appeal to the broadest and most simple-minded critics of the Rebbe and Lubavitch. Heilman and Friedman, it seems, easily mistook the Rebbe’s humility and introspection for self-centeredness and lack of interest. They may have just trans- ferred the common values that are present in men and women of every level of accomplishment today and projected those values and ways of thinking to a very uncommon man—the last Lubavitcher Rebbe. Chabad could probably continue to exist and even flourish without imping- ing on the lives or approaches of others, except for the fact that its very definition is to reach out and impact on others. So unlike other Chassidic sects on our community’s landscape, keeping to themselves and being concerned exclusively with their own is just not their way. That is probably why almost everyone seems to have a strongly held opinion about Chabad and the Rebbe. This probably explains why vocal support as well as crit- icism of Chabad today is both quite amplified and even presents a market for exaggerated and speculative theories that generate gossip but little more. The Third of Tammuz drew thousands from every corner of the world. And all they wanted was to stand in solemn silence at the Ohel, recite some prayers, and pay tribute to a life of accomplishment and a life that fascinat- ingly continues to accomplish. There is nothing exaggerated about that. O Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at [email protected]. 10 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Administration’s misguided American- it is receiving from the international Irish Catholic, stood up in defense of Peter King—A Israeli foreign policy and the absurd media. He directly questioned the the Jewish people and the State of charade of America’s presence on the direction Turkey, in its provocative Israel. For this he has earned our eter- UN Human Rights Council at a press support of the IHH flotilla, has chosen nal thanks and gratitude. Man Of Principle conference this week at the United in defiance of its relationship with the Though Congressman King does not Nations. West. He fought back against the have an exceptionally large identifiable BY CHASKEL BENNETT King lashed out at the overwhelm- biased and grossly one-sided UN Jewish constituency, he nevertheless has ing and blatant prejudice Israel has Human Rights Council in its repeated been a most outspoken and passionate Amongst the hustle and bustle of a been subjected to from the flawed and irrational condemnations of busy NYC Sunday morning and in the world body and the unfair treatment Israel. Above all, Peter King, a proud Continued on Page 13 shadows of the United Nations, America saw a determined leader, a lone voice of courage, one congressman who decided enough was enough and stood up to the world and to its madness. Time and again, politicians make principled state- ments, but what is rare is the commit-

He directly questioned the direction Turkey, in its provocative support of the IHH flotilla, has chosen in defiance of its relationship with the West.

ted leader who takes that moral imperative and translates it into meaningful and decisive action. Long Island’s Peter King, veteran congressman and famously outspoken defender of core American values, publicly challenged the Obama

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 11 HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE the fore this week is that a few days ago hedges. “No,” he answered. “The money Too Much Information. And he added Continued from Front Cover my gardener of the last ten years rang the owed is for work that has already been that now because expenses have doorbell asking that he be paid in full done.” I disagreed and said that if the increased, or because he wants to punish seems to always be there, blowing some whatever he was owed up to that point. work that was supposed to be done was me or teach me a lesson, trimming the leaves around the property or sprinkling The total was about $500, which repre- already done then the lawn and hedges bushes is now $100 additional. what looks like baby powder on my sented about two months of past work would not look the way they do. Let me just say that I’ve never really lawn so it at least looks like something is plus an additional few dollars for some “Listen,” I said to the unidentified, gotten involved in gardening issues. I being done. But over the last few weeks, extra planting and trimming that we usually unassuming, well mannered, consider the entire matter as something since spring has sprung, I’ve noticed (out asked him to do. I wasn’t home, but I was and rather quiet gardener, “I do not that just exists and is a fact of life out- of the corners of my eyes) that some- reached on my phone and I asked him want anything from you or anyone else side of my daily existence. The gardener thing wasn’t right. The bushes in front what was going on. Why were there so for nothing.” I added that for ten years I is there. He’s part of the landscape, so to that cover the façade of the house all of many weeds spread across the lawn and had always paid him everything he speak, does his thing, gets paid, and a sudden have begun growing wildly. It that’s it. But now he’s not doing his work became obvious that they were not and he’s complaining to me about pay- being cared for any longer in traditional ments, which I always make anyway. gardening style. What can I do if the combination of too The truth is, I hadn’t known who my The gardener is there. He’s part of many other people has him in a tight gardener was for the last decade. All I economic situation? I have no problem knew was that there was an older man with him quitting the job. I am planning caring for the lawn, the trees, and so on the landscape, so to speak, does on paying him in full this week and let- when I moved here 17 years ago. Then ting him just move on. one day he knocked on my door to tell his thing, gets paid, and that’s it. In the meantime I called a young man us that he was retiring, and we just from Woodmere, whom I have to admit picked this guy who was working at our I’ve been thinking about calling for a few neighbor’s home and that was that—he years. The problem with retaining him to was ours and we were his. do our lawn was that there was no prob- I’ve always been somewhat enam- why did the bushes in front of the house wanted, so what exactly was the problem with the current guy, so I just left ored by the relationship between home- look like no one has lived there for the lem now. He says into the phone, “Just whatever was good enough alone. Why owners and those who oversee proper- last few months? forget it,” hands the phone to my wife, fix it if it’s not broken? ties making certain that they are clean He said that it looks like that because and he’s gone. But last week it broke and that’s when and properly manicured. I don’t pay him on time. I took some Later, when I returned home, my wife I immediately looked up David Konig’s An additional interesting thing about minimal umbrage, because the way told me that he said he is owed thou- phone number. I called him up and two gardeners in frum communities is that things go with these guys is that they sands of dollars by people and is having a hours later he was at our home; and two they know not to work on Shabbos. It let the bill slide for a few months and very hard time collecting the money. I’m hours after that, his crew was at my used to be that they would work on their then show up like this one did; they get listening but thinking that this is way too house taking care of the weeds, and they own on Shabbos, but now when you paid, and everyone goes on merrily bad for him, but if others aren’t paying are coming back this week to do whatev- engage a new gardener who’s not obser- with their lives. him why is it that he has to crack down er else needs to be done. David’s been vant or Jewish, they will usually ask So I said to him that I have no issue on me? taking care of my kids’ home in whether you object to them puttering with paying him in full but if I do that I now know that the chemical that dis- Woodmere since they moved in a couple around outside your house on Shabbos. I’m paying for work that hasn’t been poses of the weeds costs him $45. I’d say of years ago, and you know that he does- Anyway, the thing that brings this to done, like weeding and trimming the that comes under the heading of TMI— n’t have to be told not to work on

12 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Saturday. He has been in business quite Peter King a few years, and he is somewhat of an Continued from Page 11 anomaly. Sure, many Jewish kids have evolved into adults who have an affinity defender of Israel and the role it plays as for gardening, but not too many of us America’s greatest ally. actually become gardeners with crews Sadly, as we know all too well, we are fanning out around the Five Towns and surrounded by numerous elected officials the bordering Queens neighborhoods to who have no shame in telling us what we work and till the land. want to hear only to lose their voice and I don’t know why I didn’t call David a their principles when it matters most. long time ago and just tell him the job is Not Peter King. his. Maybe I felt bad for the guy that was Congressman King has never been shy already raking and plowing (well, not about America’s fight against Islamic really plowing) the rest of our block, and fanaticism, and as the ranking member I didn’t want to be the guy who messes and former chairman of the Homeland with a system that seemed to be work- Security Committee, he has been a ing just fine for a very long time. After staunch advocate for American values all, there were greening and ecological and a major leader in increasing America’s factors that we would have preferred vigilance against ever-increasing threats keeping in balance—the greening of the from a radicalized enemy. Five Towns. This week Mr. King introduced the In any event, I’m sorry my gardener America Stands with Israel Act. This was having collection problems. No legislation reaffirms America’s support question that it’s tough out there and for Israel by calling for the removal of that the global economic shift has the U.S. from the United Nations apparently trickled down to the guy Human Rights Council and prohibiting who mows your lawn as well. No one the use of American taxpayer dollars to is being spared. But I was paying my fund a U.N. investigation into the landscaping bill, and I did not have to flotilla incident. be read the riot act by the gardener. Rep. King has called on his fellow So I made the change—actually it was elected officials, both Republican and forced on me—but now I’m already Democrat, to join him in co-sponsoring glad I did. I already got a kick out of this vital legislation. Bill H.R. 5501 already watching a guy with a yarmulke and has 38 original co-sponsors. tzitzis pulling up to the front of my Mr. King correctly states that this bill house in a pickup truck with the back is not a political issue but a human one. filled with rakes, bags of sod, and We couldn’t agree with him more and seed. I’m already having nachas from call on all elected officials, Democrat the change. O and Republican, to lend their name to Mr. King’s important legislation. The Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at [email protected]. world is watching. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 13 Talmid X us chose to attend different high schools. that I sound as if I’m 50-something, com- We just had our graduation trip this Continued from Front Cover But that time, the end felt so much less plaining about aging. But it’s scary how past week. I watched as we clicked so monumental, so much less final. Besides, true the old adage “time flies” has proven nicely together. We all sat on the coach high school, these days are among the it was easy to keep in touch since we to be. Suddenly, as opposed to arguing bus and chilled in our hotel rooms. It most bittersweet that we’ve lived knew we would see each other in shul about Pokémon and Disney movies, we’re occurred to me that I really might not through. Sure, it’s practically summer— know these guys at all in about three but we all know what that means. It’s months. This trip was celebrating that the last time we, as a class, will be very idea! together. For most of us, that’s a pretty Don’t get me wrong. I’m already great sobering thought. Were the scribbled pleas to friends with a whole group of guys I’ve been with many of my current who’ll be attending my yeshiva in Israel friends through schools and camps for a “stay tight” that were sure to be next year. I look forward with much long, long, time. I remember sitting anticipation to meeting the others excitedly on the bus, new classmates all whom I don’t yet know. I also don’t love around, as our short first-grade legs dan- inscribed in our yearbook’s pages all every single one of my current pals all gled anxiously from the seats. We were that much. But still, I find myself rather all so nervous, but had such bright frightened of what is approaching. Will hopes. As we shyly began to strike up doomed to be devoid of meaning? I really give up so many meaningful and conversation with our seat buddies, we deep relationships over such a short felt the beginning of something special. period of time? Yet now, when we’re driving ourselves It seemed such an obvious contrast, on Central Avenue to go grab some and around the community in general. discussing cars, shavers, and colleges such a simple matter to distinguish pizza, the same bunch of guys turned It seems as if someone has hit the fast (although still the occasional Disney between. Back then, on that first day of teenagers, we know we’re at its end. forward button on our lives (or touched movie). We’re bigger and tougher, but elementary school, we all sat nervously in No longer will we be together. It’s a the screen where the fast forward option we’re really the same kids inside. Except one another’s presence, not sure how to strange concept for most of us. Of course, was—whatever). It’s like the world was now, we’re expected to make important channel our thoughts into words. Now, things were shaken up after our eighth designed to start moving at a more accel- life decisions and to take responsibility though, we (or at least those of us that grade graduation as well, when many of erated pace as we grow older. I recognize for our actions. Yikes! were in both that first grade group and the twelfth) sat casually, leaning over the bus’s seat tops in order to hear the central conversations, with everyone adding their thoughts and insights about the matter at hand. As I sat looking at one of my best friends, one who will not be with me next year, as he was arguing his side of our heated little discussion, it hit me like a truck. Would I really not keep in touch with him, leaving aside all the others for a moment? Were the scribbled pleas to “stay tight,” those that were sure to be inscribed in our yearbook’s pages as soon as we got them, all doomed to be so empty and devoid of meaning? We’ve all experienced so much together. We’ve taken the good times with the bad, and grown from both. While it’s quite likely most of us will manage in Israel to build similar relationships, there’s no need for them to come at the cost of old ones. I vividly remember the last sleepover I had with a few of my old closest friends from eighth grade, some of the ones who wouldn’t be joining me the following year. It was the weekend before we were scheduled to set off to different summer camps, and the overwhelming mood was one of nostalgia and longing. But we felt the eventual break between us was inevitable, and the party had the feel of us getting together for one “last hurrah.” I look back, and I am filled with regret. I bare- ly know these people today. And yet, the same incident gives me determination. I will not, and cannot, allow that to happen again. My friends mean too much to me. We joke about how the end’s coming, how I’m never going to talk to any of them again but it’s no laughing matter. I’ve got to keep these connections alive. June. The month of freedom and bright skies. It’s the month of graduation, the end of high school. But it won’t be the end of those high school relationships. We’ve got to fight. We can’t just let the most wonderful time of the year so easily become the most heartbreaking. O

“Talmid X” is preparing for graduation from a high school in the Five Towns/Far Rockaway community and is enrolled in a well-known yeshiva for the 2010–2011 academic year. Comments and questions for him are welcome at [email protected]. 14 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Guide To Yeshivas Continued from Front Cover parents have already determined a course of action for next year and, hopefully, completed enrollment in the “perfect” yeshiva high school. Which is the best yeshiva high school? This is impossible to answer. More importantly, which is the best high school for your child? Also not an easy one. Last year, we visited three schools and were thoroughly impressed with the options in the Far Rockaway- Five Towns area. Our son was graduating from eighth grade and

Which is the best yeshiva high school? This is impossible to answer.

a decision had to be made. We did our best to research the options and make an educated, informed decision. There is so much inaccurate information and rumor that it can be difficult to uncover the truth. We and our son, who just finished ninth grade, are delighted with our selection. Of course, dear reader, we may not have the same priorities and goals for our children. If you have a son in seventh grade, you may have already started the process of accumulating information and started preliminary family discussions in preparation for this important decision. After the yomim tovim, applica- tions will begin. Autumn will bring open house season. Deposits and decisions will be following in short order. Wouldn’t it be great if someone could do the preliminary legwork on your behalf? Five Towns Jewish Times to the rescue! Over the past month we have submitted a series of questions to the local boys’ yeshiva high schools. We are looking for truth, not politics or posturing. The questions are all straightforward and intended to portray an accurate representation to the readership. Class size, dress code, night seder, sports leagues, AP courses, beis medresh program, SAT prep courses, post- high school plans, and tuition fees are all included. What about the girls who will be applying to high school? This same approach could be used to highlight some of the excellent girls’

Continued on Page 16 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 15 It’s Not Just Men! Nine Steps To A Healthy Heart lesterol should be greater than 50 mg/gl. Guide To Yeshivas Continued from Front Cover 1. Make an appointment with your 7. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. A Continued from Page 15 doctor or cardiologist to start your heart lot of them. Try to have five servings of women in the United States. It kills healthy program today. vegetables and two servings of fruit daily. yeshiva high schools in the community. four times as many women per year 2. Know what your blood pressure is Eat salmon or other oily fish at least However, as my inaugural article on this as breast cancer and is also one of the and keep it under control. This can be twice weekly, limit saturated fat to less topic, I decided to limit the scope to leading causes of disability among done by limiting salt as well as com- than 10% of your diet. only boys’ schools. Besides, I had just women. bining this with some excellent med- 8. Maintain a healthy weight. It’s gone through this same decision with The most common cause of heart dis- ications that are available. The ideal important. Having a BMI (body mass my son, so I felt somewhat qualified to ease is the narrowing or blockage of the blood pressure is 120/80mm Hg. Drug index) greater than 30 places you at tackle the boys first. coronary arteries. Coronary arteries are therapy is recommended for those increased risk for heart disease. Keep your What about schools outside the Five the blood vessels that supply blood to our with blood pressure over 140/90mm Hg weight within 20 pounds of ideal body Towns and Far Rockaway? There are cer- heart. When these vessels narrow or get (with kidney disease or diabetes, thera- weight. Know your BMI. tainly many excellent options outside of blocked by junk it is called coronary py is recommended for those over 9. Try to de-stress. Stress is a risk factor our immediate area. In fact, there are artery disease. 130/90 mm Hg). too. many 5TJT readers outside the Five It is not something that just happens 3. Exercise regularly. Plain and simple. Remember, the older we get, the Towns area as well. Once again, a deci- all of a sudden. It is the kind of thing Exercise prevents heart disease. 30 min- more likely we are to get heart disease. sion was made to start off with a more that happens slowly over time. And utes, at least three times per week. It It is true that the greatest risk to women manageable task this first year. Tofasta then, BAM! Rachmana litzlan. It’s the should be of moderate intensity, like a begins at the age of 55, but we should all meruba lo tofasta. This should not be major reason why people have heart brisk walk. start these steps even earlier. misunderstood as a slight against the attacks. What is particularly sad is that 4. Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, stop. One last thing: Don’t ignore chest other fine mosdos. two out of every three women who 5. Get tested for diabetes. If you have it, pain, shortness of breath, or fatigue. It is The tabulated results will appear in the have had a heart attack do not make a take your Metformin and keep it under better to be safe than sorry. O autumn, prior to the open house pro- full recovery. control. grams. We expect the information to be Dr. Shoshana Kahn is a board-certified The good news is that there is a lot 6. Know your cholesterol and triglyc- cardiologist and heart rhythm specialist affiliated useful to all parents—and give us all great that can be done to prevent it. Ladies, eride levels and keep them under control. with North Shore LIJ. If anyone has any questions pride in the excellent options in the Five or concerns please feel free to make an take these steps seriously. It can save Ideally the “bad” cholesterol, or LDL should appointment by calling 516-812-5066. Her office is Towns and Far Rockaway area. If you your life. be less than 100 mg/dl, and the “good” cho- located at 141 Washington Avenue in Lawrence. have a son in seventh grade, you will find the article an exceptionally useful resource in making your decision. Until then, enjoy a relaxing summer! O CALENDAR LUACH June 18–June 26 ZIP Code: 11516

6 Tammuz Friday, June 18 Daf yomi: Makkos 14 Z’manim*: Earliest tallis/teﬁllin: 4:16 am Sunrise: 5:24 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 8:33 am Gr’a 9:09 am P’lag ha’minchah: 6:54 pm Candle Lighting: 8:10 pm 7 Tammuz – Shabbos Saturday, June 19 Parashas Chukkas Avos: Ch. 5 Shabbos ends**: 9:20 pm 72 min. 9:41 pm 13 Tammuz Friday, June 25 Daf yomi: Makkos 21 Earliest tallis/teﬁllin: 4:17 am Sunrise: 5:26 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 8:35 am Gr’a 9:11 am P’lag ha’minchah: 6:55 pm Candle Lighting: 8:11 pm 14 Tammuz – Shabbos Saturday, June 26 Parashas Balak Avos: Ch. 6 Shabbos ends**: 9:21 pm 72 min. 9:42 pm * All times from MyZmanim.com ** add a few minutes for tosefos Shabbos according to your minhag Municipal Calendar For 5 Towns and NYC Sunday, June 20 Father’s Day. 16 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 17 Next In Line

BY RABBI MEIR ORLIAN BUSINESS HALACHA INSTITUTE

In last week’s parashah, we read that in response to Korach’s challenge of Aharon’s priesthood, G-d confirmed the priestly succession of Aharon to his descendents. Does the crown of Torah also pass from a rabbinic leader to his descendants? NNN The invitation to the annual shul dinner announced in bold letters: “This year’s Guest of Honor will be our beloved mara d’asra, Rabbi Shlomo Davis, in celebration of over forty years of dedicated service to the shul.”

“I am entitled to succeed my father and inherit his position.”

Rabbi Davis had come to the community as a young rabbi, when the 20 member families were still arguing over the height of the mechitzah and the need for separate dancing at weddings. Over the years, he succeeded in leading the trans- formation of the shul into a vibrant one of 300 families, with well-attended daily shiurim, a creative chesed committee, and a thriving preschool program. After renewing Rabbi Davis’s contract three times, the shul voted to award him a lifetime contract. However, three months before the dinner, the rabbi made a shocking announcement: “It has been my privilege to serve the shul for over forty years. Due to a medical condition, I will have to retire at the end of the year.” The hot topic of discussion in shul immediately became, “Who will be the next rabbi?” Advertisements were placed in major Jewish newspapers: “Large Orthodox synagogue seeking dynamic full-time rabbi. Please send résumés and references to the search committee at rabbisearch@ rshul.org.” Among the many candidates was Rabbi Asher Davis, the rabbi’s son. Although not as dynamic or experienced as his father, Rabbi Asher had notable cre- dentials and had always filled in during his father’s absence. Attached to his résumé was a letter that read: “It is superfluous to mention the distinction with which my father served the community for over forty years. His dedicated leadership of the shul earned him a lifetime appointment. As such, I am entitled to succeed my father and inherit his position, in accordance with the ruling of the Rema. “Respectfully, Rabbi Asher Davis.” This letter puzzled the committee chair, Alan Spiegel. He knew of many other cases in which rabbis retired and 18 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES their sons did not succeed them. Yet, Rabbi Asher claimed that this was a ruling of the Rema! He asked Rabbi Tzedek if the search committee could meet with him, and then e-mailed its members: “I received a letter from Rabbi Asher Davis claiming that he is entitled to inherit his father’s position. Meeting tomorrow night 9:00 p.m. with Rabbi Tzedek to clarify this point.” Rabbi Tzedek advised them: “There is a major dispute among the poskim as to whether the son of a lifetime rabbi inherits his father’s position. Therefore, you are not obligated to appoint him if you prefer someone else, but you should give him special consideration, even if there are others slightly more qualified.” N NN Rabbi Tzedek explained: “The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 1:7) rules that for all appointments of authority, if the son is a worthy successor he inherits his father’s position. The Rema (Y.D. 245:22), citing the Rivash, applies this ruling also to rabbinic positions. And while ‘inheritance’ typically applies only after death, some poskim extend the law of succession to situations where the father is no longer capable of serving—in particular where the son had already assisted his father. “Nonetheless, the issue is not clear-cut, for three reasons.” “Why not?” asked Mr. Spiegel. “First,” said Rabbi Tzedek, “a number of Acharonim disagree with the Rema and claim that the rabbinate is not a position of authority, but rather one of instructing Torah and mitzvos. Unlike the crown of priesthood and the crown of monarchy, which were awarded to specific families, the crown of Torah is available to all. Therefore, there is no concept of succession in Torah (Maharshdam Y.D. No. 85; Magen Avraham O.C. 53:33). However, many maintain, in support of the Rema, that the rabbinate nowadays entails not only instructing Torah, but also commu- nal authority, and therefore the son is entitled to succeed his father (Chasam Sofer O.C. No. 13). “What is the second reason?” asked another committee member. “The Rema concludes that in places where the common practice is to appoint the rabbi for a limited time or to choose whomever the community wants, they can do so. Since nowadays almost all positions of authority are time-limited and chosen through a democratic process, it is highly questionable whether Rabbi Asher can demand the right to succeed his father. However, it is still proper to give him special consideration, even if others are slightly more qualified.” “And the third reason?” asked Mr. Spiegel. “According to many opinions, the son is entitled to succeed his father only if he is acceptable to the majority of the people (Rashi, Kerisus 5b s.v. b’zman; Avnei Nezer Y.D. No. 312). Therefore, Rabbi Asher’s claim has validity only if he proves to be a serious contender.” O

Rabbi Meir Orlian is a faculty member of the Business Halacha Institute, which is headed by HaRav Chaim Kohn, shlita, a noted dayan. For questions regarding business halacha issues, or to bring a BHI lecturer to your business or shul, please call the confidential hotline at 877-845- 8455 or e-mail [email protected]. To receive BHI’s free newsletter, “Business Weekly,” e-mail [email protected]. This article is intended for learning purposes and not to be relied upon as halacha l’maaseh. There are also issues of dina d’malchusa to consider in actual cases. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 19 Kavod HaTorah synagogues. This unified call for condem- absolutely nothing. The concept of da’as I have no doubt that, despite these words, Continued from Front Cover nation of the breach of tzniyus and meso- Torah, emunas chachamim, and kavod for some will make it so). It’s just the idea of rah was unprecedented in that similar talmidei chachamim are all ancient ideas bringing this concept of “Maharat” or On very rare occasions, I will use this calls were heard from the Rabbinical that are to be tossed to the side, along with “Rabbah” (or whatever term her mentor platform on behalf of the gedolim, or Council of America (albeit in different our ancient mesorah, all for the sake of from Riverdale conjured up of late) and on behalf of some of my distinguished words) and from the roshei yeshiva of feminism and perceived equality. bringing it to our community in a very rabbinic colleagues, to voice a protest Yeshiva University’s Rav Yitzchak Several months ago, when this issue public display of bizayon gedolei Torah. and cry out in pain. This is one of those Elchanan Seminary, led by the gaon and came to the forefront and the gedolim all There would be no issue should Ms. rare occasions. posek Rav Herschel Schachter, shlita. spoke in a unified voice as to the dangers Hurwitz have come as a private citizen, or Prior to writing on a sensitive subject, The unprecedented public outcry at that this brings to our community, some as a lecturer for the women of the com- I try to weigh my words to hopefully get this breach in mesoras Yisrael that was took a different position and publicly munity. But to be invited as a scholar in my message across and avoid stirring up heard from every Orthodox organization, attacked the position of the gedolei residence to address the entire shul in a any resentment against myself, or, more including the National Council of Young Yisrael. It seems that some members of public display, with e-mails and advertise- importantly, the gedolei Torah whose Israel, resulted in the rabbi and initiator our community took it upon themselves ments that both “invite and encourage” views I attempt to convey. In this case, I communitywide participation (and while know many will not be pleased, some the wounds from the very public contro- will even possibly be angry at me for stir- versy just several months ago have not ring the pot. But I have been asked by When they were made aware that they must yet healed) is a reason that our voices of one of the senior gedolei ha’dor, as well protest must be heard. as by several of my distinguished col- also submit themselves to talmidei chachamim Someone involved in the process told leagues, to bring to the attention of the me that it was just an opportunity to bring general community the great bizayon and gedolei Torah, who are flesh and blood, this in an inspiring speaker to the community. haTorah, the degradation of the gedolei I beg to differ. In the last few weeks, the Torah, that took place in our community was too difficult to accept. Five Towns community was zocheh to this past Shabbos. have wonderful, inspiring speakers [This article has been reviewed and address us. These included Rav Matisyahu approved by several other community Salomon, Rav Yissocher Frand, Rav rabbanim as well, whose names will be of this idea and the young woman who to continue that dismissal and disagree- Ephraim Wachsman, Rav Herschel available from the editor upon request.] was the subject of this new role back- ment with the gedolei Torah and invited Schacther, etc.; and wonderful women Several months ago, the Moetzes tracking from their position—not the subject of that controversy to spend a speakers as Rebbetzin Tarshish, Mrs. Shira Gedolei HaTorah of America, which com- because they agreed that it was wrong, Shabbos here—highlighting her ability to Smiles, and our local great source of chizuk prises a distinguished group of elder but only that it was ill-timed. fill that role. and inspiration, Rebetzin Tehilla Jaeger. To roshei yeshivos and chassidic rebbes, after To the contrary, Ms. Sara Hurwitz, in sev- I want to emphasize a thousandfold reach out to someone who is at the center days of intense discussion and consulta- eral public addresses and in an interview in and to be very clear that this has absolute- of what the gedolei Torah view as a breach tion issued an unprecedented public the Jewish Week, said that she relishes her ly nothing to do with the intellectual of our mesorah to inspire, is an insult to proclamation (a kol korei) denouncing in new role but will have to wait a while for capacity or even book knowledge of Ms. our intelligence and sense of yashrus. the strongest of terms the decision of one the title that comes with it to be more Hurwitz (whom I never met). She may be And even the argument that a local maverick individual, a rabbi from acceptable to the public. Those words sent proficient in the entire Shach and Taz shul can do whatever it chooses to do in Riverdale, who felt that the time has come a loud and clear message to all who heard (which I have no way of knowing, yet I am its own home; while very true, does not to ordain women rabbis and have them them: the unified words of our gedolei highly doubtful). This has absolutely noth- apply in this case. Numerous e-mails were officiate in a rabbinic role in Orthodox Torah and distinguished rabbonim mean ing to do with any personal factor (though sent out to the entire Five Towns commu-

20 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES nity inviting everyone to partici- and objection, in the strongest gedolei Torah which we were the issue of women’s minyanim where I was a young rav. At that pate in this public demonstra- of terms, to what she represents compelled to accept on Har was the “flavor of the year” issue time, a much older colleague tion of bizayon haTorah. Hence, be in line with following and Sinai? I think not. for feminists. Such a group the majority of the community respecting the words of the I remember years ago when formed in the community Continued on Page 22 that tries to live their lives following the lead of da’as Torah of our gedolim have every right to be offended and to protest this effort to our treasured mesorah. The Chasam Sofer asked why it was necessary for Hakadosh Baruch Hu to hold Har Sinai over the heads of Klal Yisrael in order to persuade them to accept the Oral Torah. Didn’t they just say, “Na’aseh v’nish- ma—We shall do and we shall listen”? He explains this with an important lesson for us. While standing before Har Sinai, Klal Yisrael agreed to humble themselves before Hashem. However, when they received the Oral Torah and they were made aware that they must also submit themselves to talmidei chachamim and gedolei Torah, who are flesh and blood, this was too difficult to accept. So Hashem picked up the mountain and held it over them and said, “If you do not accept this then you will be buried right here. If you do not humble your- selves before the gedolei Torah, it is considered as being buried alive, and then you won’t even have the written Torah either.” Would inviting someone so soon after the gedolei Torah unanimously voiced their pain

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 21 Kavod HaTorah But I have no doubt he would tell me to Continued from Page 21 cry out in protest at this bizayon haTorah that took place in our community. supported this practice and women Those involved in bringing this con- began to join in this group. While I felt troversy to our wonderful community strongly that this was wrong and the should think long and hard, not for an gedolei Torah spoke out publicly on this apology or mea culpa, but rather for issue, I felt that lama’an hashalom, for the some introspective soul searching as to sake of peace in the community, I would what was their true motivation for doing just ignore the whole thing. so, at the expense of causing a rift in the I went to consult with my beloved and community. Even individuals who may revered Rebbe, the rosh hayeshiva of have consulted with others if this is Yeshivas Chofetz Chaim, Rav Henoch something that could be done should Leibowitz, zt’l, who was the quintessen- not have done so without consultation tial ish hashalom. Not only did he always with other colleagues and leaders of the speak to us about running away from community at large. machlokes, he himself saw his beloved As we are about to begin the period of father and Rebbe suffer greatly from the Three Weeks of mourning for the Beis being on the receiving end of a group that Hamikdash, it’s worth focusing on the waged a bitter machlokes with him. powerful words of the Midrash in I asked what should be my role here, Yirmiyahu and internalize its eternal mes- expecting him full well to tell me to avoid sage. The Midrash comments that getting involved at all costs. To my sur- Hashem assured the Navi Yirmiyahu that prise, he looked at me and said, “There is though the Beis Hamikdash will be nothing more important for you to do destroyed, Klal Yisrael will survive than stand up and fight for da’as Torah, because they have the great zechus of hav- for kedushas Yisrael, for tzniyus, and for ing followed Moshe and Aharon into the kavod haTorah.” He added that no matter desert when they left Mitzrayim. what will come from it, no matter how The Midrash concludes that in every many people will not understand your subsequent generation that has its position, there is nothing more impor- roots in Churban Bayis, our only guar- tant you can do as a rav than stand up for antee for survival and salvation is by the kavod of the gedolim who feel so following the gedolei Torah of the gen- strongly about this issue. He was so insis- eration, the successors of Moshe and tent on this that the very next morning, Aharon. Only this aspect of following the rosh hayeshiva, zt’l, called and asked da’as Torah can and will guarantee the me about what I had done so far to speak survival of Klal Yisrael. out for kavod haTorah. As a result of this manifestation of Unfortunately, with my Rebbe’s pass- bizayon haTorah, this coming Tishah ing over two years ago, I don’t have him B’Av, we will have something else to to consult with on these types of issues. cry about. O

22 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 23 problems that his father, Reb Nison publications. It is a monumental collec- A Voice From The Past Gordon, z’l, a journalist as well, had tion and wealth of work that scales the written in his time with the same pas- heights and plumbs the depths of Lessons For The Present, not only the happenings in the Five sion and need for solutions. Jewish life from his perspective.” I Protecting The Future Towns, but also the many interesting This past February, Larry wrote about became excited about the project and BY VICTOR COHEN articles as well as the editorials of his undertaking a project “to unearth found it necessary to translate his Larry Gordon. His editorials show a some 3,000 newspaper articles, plus one father’s articles and book. I found that It’s been quite a while that I have deep concern for his community, for book, that my father, R’ Nison Gordon, his father’s description and analysis are been reading the Five Towns Jewish the Jewish community at large, and for z’l, wrote in the course of his almost worthy and necessary for us to read so Times. Every Friday night it has Israel. Reading his editorials reminded half-century career as a Yiddish journal- that the mistakes which blinded us in become somewhat of a ritual to read me of the description and analysis of ist for several noteworthy and scholarly his times are not repeated. While reading that editorial, I began to reflect on my own days as a youth. I had the privilege of growing up in a home where Yiddish was spoken; one can say that it was my first language. We lived with my paternal grandparents, z’l, and my grandmother refused to let me speak English, which she termed “goyish,” fearing that I would assimilate into the non-Jewish environment. For example, when she heard me calling my father “Daddy,” she became irritated and insisted I call him “Tatte.” When I visited my maternal grandparents, z’l, for Shabbos, my grandmother would read to me Reb Nison Gordon’s column in the Yiddish newspaper. She found his articles interesting in that he analyzed the situations and the problems facing the Orthodox community. His concerns and emotions were reflected in his answers to the many questions that were troubling religious Jews, both immigrants and American-born. My grandmother wanted me to listen and eventually read his articles so that I should become concerned enough to be involved in community affairs. I never forgot those

24 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES moments. Later, some of my yeshiva I’ve written previously, on a personal chaverim and I became involved with level I believe there is a great deal of groups concerned with perpetuating insight—even messages to the future— religious life in America. that can be excavated from these thou- I would like to bring to your atten- sands of articles . . . I am approaching tion a statement at the beginning of this undertaking as both an exciting Reb Nison Gordon’s book, Old and New personal research project . . . If I had to in Israel: “The Orthodox world in give it a name, maybe I would dub it America in general and the rabbinical ‘backward text messaging.’ After all, world in particular have in R’ Nison this work consists of his texts and I’m

My grandmother wanted me to listen and eventually read his articles so that I should become concerned enough to be involved in community affairs.

Gordon an extremely reliable and con- looking for messages.” scientious friend; better yet, our own There is much that Reb Nison Gordon journalist whose pen is constantly on can say to us. In the articles that have guard for all our religious people.” This already appeared in translation in the quote is from the approbations by Five Towns Jewish Times and in those Rabbi Pinchas M. Teitz, z’l, of the presid- that iy’H will appear, his message is loud ium of the Agudas HaRabbanim; Rabbi and clear. We are living in trying times, Avraham N. Avrutik, z’l, president of the not only in Israel but wherever there is Histadrus HaRabbanim; and Rabbi Meir a Jewish community. It is imperative Greenberg, z’l, president of the Igud that we become aware of situations; we HaRabbanim, who were members of must become serious in our listening, in the publication committee. our discussions and in our responses. So, it is not surprising that I wrote to Complacency can become a disease Larry Gordon, offering to translate his which can cause an ailment to spread father’s articles when I read, “Once I and infect the Jewish body and soul. It had the material at my fingertips . . . has never worked and it never will. Read what would I do with all that work? As his articles and reflect. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 25 transgression of Korach as being great, behave for generations. Korach should have realized that having Promoting Peace but we must understand this in the con- We see that Moshe went out of his just left Egypt and having gotten the text of his greatness. What for us would way to approach Dasan and Aviram to Torah from Har Sinai directly from Mussar of the Alter of Slobodka be a very small sin, for Korach and what thwart this controversy, and we are told Hashem, it would only be with the sup- BY RABBI DOVID was expected of him would be consid- that this attempt was pivotal and felt to port of Hashem that any of this could WEINBERGER ered an abomination. have been an absolute obligation from have truly occurred. Korach had ample CONGREGATION SHAARAY TEFILA Fundamentally, Korach felt that he the perspective of Moshe and Hashem. opportunity from living in this age of had a true reason to contest the authori- Moshe could have easily argued that to miracles and seeing firsthand the rela- At first glance, the story of Korach ty of Moshe and felt that he had an obli- approach Dasan and Aviram would have tionship of Moshe and Hashem just what seems rather straightforward. We learn gation with relation to Hashem to stay been below his dignity, but as the dignity that relationship was and should have that Korach represented the epitome of firm. It is clear that what began as a of Hashem was at stake, he was able to understood the truth in the integrity of jealousy and this forges a permanent neg- potentially very legitimate contention to make this his core focus. Moshe under- Moshe Rabbeinu’s approach and dedica- ative command of making sure we do not the leadership role of Moshe spiraled out stood that Korach was ultimately not tion to Hashem and his Torah. All of Klal allow jealousy to overtake us, literally of control. The Netziv mentions that this only challenging his authority, but truly Yisrael had tremendous expectations “not to be like Korach and his followers.” particular controversy had the potential that of Hashem directly. We see that upon them, having been privy directly to Yet, as we see in the form of the approach to become something akin to the famous when it comes to thwarting controversy, an unprecedented glimmer of Divine of the Alter as a recurrent theme through ongoing and time-honored controversy there is no limit to the expectation upon intervention, and the obligation upon his writings and philosophy, what seems between Hillel and Shammai—an ongo- us to endeavor for peace, no matter how Korach, one of even greater stature, was on the surface as something straightfor- ing series of arguments that were all for remote our ultimate possibility of suc- thus further elevated. ward is hardly so. the sake of Hashem and that the course cess. We also see from this that this was- We know that controversy surrounds We know that Shmuel would come of such controversy would ultimately n’t truly a confrontation between Korach us. We know from our own experience from Korach and that for this time of the only strengthen the understanding and and Moshe, but truly between Korach that we often wait for someone else to generation of the desert, he was essential- depths of respect for Torah. Yet we see and Hashem. ask for forgiveness or to back down or ly deemed a great leader and a great that despite the golden potential of this So where was Korach wrong? Given forget or breed peace. We see that if man—a true leader of Klal Yisrael and situation, that by only veering off course the very high level of Korach, he should Moshe was prepared to stoop to any level those who followed him were justified in at first the slightest bit, ends up becom- have understood that this series of necessary for the sake of what we see was understanding much of his greatness. We ing a cornerstone for our own under- events that enabled Moshe to gain a huge controversy, and was willing to know that the Chumash speaks of the standing of how not to act and not to authority came directly from Hashem. expend whatever effort was necessary, then how can we, facing controversies of far less magnitude, not be willing and anxious to put in any effort, no matter how futile, to attempt to arrive at peace? We always must be willing to take the ini- tial step forward and not allow any controversy to continue in Klal Yisrael. We further see that by not thwarting controversy, it is considered as though we are ultimately propagating it. So Korach makes a very small error in perception and finds that a series of events propels him toward further and further controversy, and then Moshe finds that he faces a series of subtle obli- gations, yet takes on the responsibility to try to end the controversy. And as guilty as the Torah shows us that Korach was, we see that Moshe was seemingly just as obligated to take the steps he did to try to end this dispute. Had Moshe not acted in the fashion he did, he would have been considered throughout history not very different than Korach and just as wrong. We also understand that Moshe was further compelled to intervene given the sheer number of those being misled, even if for the right reason, and the required need to not let so many err. We also see that what applies to Moshe certainly applies to us in all areas of controversy, and controversy certainly as it applies to our own people. This was not Moshe Rabbeinu going beyond the letter of the law, but rather upholding and helping forge the law. Our own avoidance of dispute and working diligently to quell it is also not considered a step above or beyond, but truly adher- ence to the command of Hashem, and our failure to do all that we can do to avoid such controversy is a transgression of our law. If we let controversy continue, by its very nature, just as in this instance by Korach, it easily can begin its own spiraling process. So we see our obligation is to not only promote peace, but take a very active role to not sit idly by, but rather put an end to controversy amongst ourselves, and do all that we can to make sure we always actively resolve our differences. O

In memory of Levi Yitzchak ben Rav Avraham Elimelich, a’h. Prepared for publication by Dovid Steiner and the Five Towns Jewish Times. 26 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Just Plane Foolish

The other day I told my class a story explanations of the pasuk in Koheles which included the mention of TWA. (5:9) “Umi oheiv behamon lo tevuah.” One of my students asked me what TWA Rav Ashi offered the following was. I was taken aback. However, since “Whoever loves to learn in a group will TWA ceased to exist in 2001, he was eight merit to acquire Torah.” Rebbe Yosi B’ years old the last time that a TWA-brand- Rebbe Chanina goes even further and ed jet flew. While researching this article states “Sages who learn alone deserve a

Torah study has deep sevaros and secrets. These can only be properly understood by an animated give-and- take with other individuals.

I came across Eastern Airlines. I had no punishment by the sword.” The recollection of them. They went bank- Maharsha says that if you meet an indi- rupt in 1991. I was definitely older than vidual who says he consistently learns eight when they last flew! Is there really Torah in a group, yet appears to be an a connection between Eastern Airlines ignoramus, you know that he is a liar. and the daf? I’m going to try to wing it. I The Torah guarantees that an individual hope you like my approach. The Gemara in Makos offers various Continued on Page 28

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 27 DAF YOMI INSIGHTS “And from where do we know that Continued from Page 27 someone who learns alone that Hashem gives him reward . . .” It is evi- can reach new planes of Torah under- dent that if you receive reward for an standing if he learns Torah in a group. action, then it must be proper. His claim that he is a part of Torah The Gemara makes one more state- study group must have been concocted ment about one who learns alone, he will out of thin air. become foolish. This can be best Even if we can understand why group explained by the following anecdote: learning is better, why does the Gemara Eastern Airlines Flight 885 took off practically state that it is a sin to learn from Miami International Airport at alone? What is the basis for this? The 08:56 on May 5, 1980. They were flying a Maharsha explains that Torah study is three engine Lockheed Tri-Star. The not like any other area of human knowl- flight was to Nassau International edge. It has deep sevaros and secrets. Airport in the Bahamas. They were carry- These can only be properly understood ing 162 passengers and 10 crew members. by an animated give-and-take with other At 09:15, during an ascent through 15,000 individuals. One who studies alone is feet, an indicator warning light went on equating Torah knowledge to the study indicating problems with Tri-Star’s #2 of aviation. He is viewing the Torah as a Lockheed Tri-Star once used by the no longer extant Eastern Airlines. engine. This engine then flamed out. A simple textbook that one can read alone decision had to be made—should they and cram for the Regents. This is a dis- continue on to Nassau which was only grace of Torah and can make one liable not join a chaburah is not disgracing cult to learn alone and one who never- 54 miles away, or return to Miami which for punishment. the Torah by learning alone. Just the theless does, deserves great reward. Rav was 110 miles away? The captain elected This is only true if one willfully for- opposite, he is showing heroic courage Yaakov Emden proves that someone to return to Miami to land. This was due goes a Torah chaburah that is fitting for by overcoming the evil inclination who cannot join a chaburah should to the poor weather conditions in him and instead learns alone. One who against the study of Torah and learning nevertheless learn by himself from an Nassau. It would have taken more time is in a place or situation where he can- by himself. It is often much more diffi- explicit Mishnah in Pirkei Avos (3:2) to land in Nassau than to land in Miami. (In response to a lawsuit, this decision was proven to be the correct one in a flight simulator.) En route back to Miami, warning lights for engines 1 and 3 illuminated. At 09:28, at an altitude of 16,000 feet, engine 3 flamed out. At 09:33, engine 1 flamed out. While the flight crew attempted to restart engine 2, cabin lights went off and flight deck instruments stopped working. The aircraft descended without power from about 13,000 feet to about 4,000 feet, at which point the crew suc- cessfully restarted engine 2 and executed a landing at Miami. None of the 172 passengers and crew aboard was injured in the incident. The odds of an engine failing in mid- flight in this particular plane were estimated at one in a thousand. The odds of two engines failing simultaneously are one in a million. The odds of all three engines failing simultaneously are one in a billion. Was this an extremely rare and bizarre accident? The NTSB concluded otherwise. The same two mechanics serviced all three engines. They failed to seal the oil tanks properly with “o-rings” and all the engine oil leaked out. They made the same error three times. In fact, internal documents later showed that they made the same mistake numerous times before. When one learns Torah by himself he is prone to make mistakes. He can mis- understand one concept and then continually make the same error over and over again. With a chaburah, the mistake can be realized and corrected. The Gemara is saying that learning alone is plane foolish. Occasionally we see this in my daf yomi chaburah. Either I or any other participant has a preconceived notion about a certain topic. It is only through the group discussion that our mistaken view is corrected. It is clear from the Gemara, that much importance is placed on group learning. Therefore, one should try his utmost to join a Torah chaburah to be able to soar to new heights in Torah. O

Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead and is a rebbi at Mesivta Kesser Yisrael of Willowbrook. He can be contacted at [email protected]. 28 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 29 All About Bulb Vegetables

To most serious cooks, onions and gar- tionally popular vegetable. An unpeeled lic are staples in almost every dish. Their garlic clove doesn’t have a very strong aromatic flavors make dishes come alive. scent, but once the clove’s body has been However most people don’t know that damaged, a pungent odor is released. these bulb vegetables are related, mem- Sautéed or roasted garlic delivers a sweet bers of the lily family. They might be used and fragrant flavor. When cooking one raw in sandwiches, salads, or salsas to add must be very careful not to burn the gar- punch. Yet when they are lightly sautéed lic, which can happen very easily since or slowly roasted, their flavors mellow out garlic cooks very quickly. and the natural sweetness is brought out. Pearl onions. Very small onions valued Garlic soup Bulb vegetables have two categories: for their sweet, delicate flavor and usual- Spring bulb vegetables include scallions ly served as an accompaniment. Pearl depending on the recipe either the long States, and can be yellow, red, or white. If and ramps, and need refrigeration. The onions can be creamed, roasted, or glazed green hollow leaves or the white bulbous a recipe simply calls for “an onion,” a bulbs should be white and firm and the with balsamic vinegar in Italian dishes or ends will be used. Recipes usually require Spanish onion is the one to use. greens should be bright, not limp or tamarind for Middle Eastern cuisine. that scallions be chopped. They should Sweet onions. Sweet because they have brown. Storage bulbs are the onion-like Since peeling such small onions can be a be used soon after purchase. a lower concentration of sulfur, allowing vegetables—round, thin-skinned vegeta- chore, look for frozen pre-peeled ones at Shallots. Looks more like garlic than the sugar content to stand out. These are bles that can be kept in a dry, dark place. your market. an onion because of its small, bulbous a good alternative for those who dislike Cipollini. This Italian onion distin- Red onions. Also known as purple cluster and thin dry brownish skin. the stronger taste of onions. Some of the guishes itself from its cousins by its flat onions, the bright reddish-purple skin Individual shallot cloves resemble over- most well-known varieties are the Vidalia top and squat shape, but it is growing in makes this onion hard to miss and is sized garlic cloves with their pointed and Bermuda onions. These don’t keep as popularity in the U.S. Its taste is less pun- most commonly used in salads. Use raw tapered ends, except that the shallot has well as other storage onions, so try to use gent than that of its relatives, making it onions sparingly since most find it to be a purple-tinted hue. Its flavor is milder them up as soon as possible. ideal for creamed or glazed onions. And the sharpest variety. To soften the taste, than an onion’s, but its bite is still sharp White onion. Named for the color of because of the cipollinis’ size and shape, chill raw onions in ice water for 20 min- when uncooked. It is most popular in its thin skin and flesh, this variety is more they’re easy to cook and serve whole. Try utes before serving. French and southeast Asian cuisine. tangy than sweet or sour. This is the them roasted or grilled on skewers. Scallions. Also known as green onions. Spanish onion. A relatively mild onion onion of choice when making Latin and Garlic. Garlic comes in many forms, This spring onion’s flavorful bite makes it that is round, with a thin, brownish, Central American dishes, especially from whole bulb, already-peeled cloves, a popular ingredient in Asian cooking. papery skin, Spanish onions are the most pre-sliced, and minced. This is an interna- The scallion is entirely edible, but common type of onion in the United Continued on Page 32

30 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES planned. He called it ‘foolhardy’. So much since I was responsible for the safety of for the navigational knowledge of the my children, I haven’t changed my mind Sunderland family! They’ve said that, as about any of it. Color me yellow, for cow- born again Christians, they chose to rely ardly. But the flip side to that is that we on the grace of G-d and prayer to get their never had to call upon search and rescue daughter through this adventure. But G-d teams to bail our kid out of a mess that might appreciate a little help now and was of our own making. then. If only people would use some com- Naturally I have little input with mon sense. regard to the activities that my children Daddy-o also said he realized that most allow my grandchildren to participate in, Gutsy Or Nutsy people will think the undertaking was and I don’t always agree with all of their sheer stupidity but that anyone with a parental decisions, but so far so good. Last week the news was filled with brought up on and around boats, and that passion for the sea will understand. Hopefully Hashem will be kind and it reports about Abby Sunderland, the 16- she was fully prepared and equipped to Hubby and I also had a passion but it will remain that way. year-old girl from California who was keep herself alive in the event of a was for the safety of our children. Of When one family calls upon govern- missing somewhere in the Indian Ocean. mishap. They knew the risks and felt that course, we may have carried things too ment agencies to go out and look for The news is good. She was found and res- she would be able to handle them. far because the closest we ever came to their child and to hopefully rescue the cued. Because she was able to manually Clearly these people are knowledgeable allowing our youngsters to participate in child, who foots the bill? And what hap- activate the two emergency beacons that sailors but that hardly explains why they water sports that required determination, pens when there are two or more emer- were attached to the boat as well as to her allow their children to take these risks. strength, and skill was to permit them to gencies occurring simultaneously? If a survival suit, people were alerted and Sailing experts who weighed in with go to a water park. And any boating that fishing vessel runs into serious trouble, immediately set out to look for her. A an opinion said that Abby was ill-advised we might have encouraged them to par- with a dozen or more souls on board, to massive search and rescue mission was to leave California in January because she ticipate in would have to have been on a which crisis do the rescue teams launched. A French fishing vessel was would very possibly arrive in the Indian small lake, watched over by a lifeguard. respond first? It’s not a numbers game— Ocean at the start of the winter season. One of our kids used to complain that we saving one life versus saving several—it’s One source said that, given the mountain- hovered like helicopters. But I still feel also the idea that the men aboard those ous seas and huge wind strengths of win- our way was best. The only other possible ter in that area, the trip was poorly And, although many years have passed Continued on Page 33 explanation is that they feel it their duty to keep search and rescue operation crews, the world over, on their toes.

diverted to her location in an area between Australia and Madagascar. And an Australian aircraft flew overhead and made contact with her. The frenetic activity got underway when her worried parents, after losing contact with Abby, made anxious pleas to the authorities to search for their daughter. Her boat was roiling around in treach- erous seas while the parents remained safe and dry in the comfort of their home. And this isn’t the first time they’ve allowed one of their offspring to do this. Not long ago, Abby’s older brother did the same thing. He was 17 at the time. Abby is one of seven children and chances are that, when they come of age, these parents will allow the others to do the same thing; sail solo around the world. If the parents aren’t crazy the only other possible explanation is that they feel it their duty to keep search and rescue operation crews, the world over, on their toes. Post rescue, when Abby’s joyous parents were interviewed, they explained that she is an expert sailor, that she was

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 31 THE DISH Continued from Page 30 Mexican food. If you cry while cutting onions, you can either freeze them for a few minutes before- hand or wear goggles, which are available especially for this use. And if your hands retain that pungent odor after handling onions and garlic, run your hands under cold water and then rub them against anything stainless-steel, such as the kitchen faucet or a piece of silverware.

Roasted Garlic Soup With Parmesan Cheese The Parmesan can be left out for a pareve soup Ingredients: 26 garlic cloves (unpeeled), plus 18 garlic cloves, peeled 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 2 Tbsp. ( ⁄4 stick) butter substitute 1 2⁄4 cups sliced onions 1 1⁄2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme 1 3⁄2 cups vegetable stock or broth 1 ⁄2 cup pareve whipping cream 1 ⁄2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place 26 garlic cloves in small glass baking dish. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss to coat. Cover baking dish tightly with foil and bake until garlic is golden brown and tender, about 45 minutes. Cool. Squeeze garlic between fingertips to release cloves. Transfer cloves to small bowl. Melt butter substitute in heavy large saucepan over medi- um-high heat. Add onions and thyme and cook until onions are translucent, about 6 minutes. Add roasted garlic and 18 raw garlic cloves and cook 3 minutes. Add stock; cover and simmer until garlic is very tender, about 20 minutes. Working in batches, purée soup in blender until smooth. Return soup to saucepan; add cream and bring to simmer. Season with salt and pepper. If using, divide grated cheese among 4 bowls and ladle soup over and serve. Eating quality, delicious meals is easy when all the work is done for you. Hire a personal chef to prepare your dinners, Shabbos meals, or small parties. For more information, contact Take Home Chef personal chef services by calling 516-858-0215, writing to [email protected], or visiting www.TakeHomeChef.net.

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32 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

THAT’S THE WAY IT IS! Continued from Page 31 boats are adults and that they’re out there because they need to make a living and not because they have a passion to satisfy. But a child alone is a priority in terms of need, which might then put the fishermen at greater risk as they wait their turn. Yellow isn’t my only color. Color me red, for anger; anger that parents would allow a child to subject herself to such huge risk and anger that they then need to rely on, and possibly deplete, resources of assistance. The Sunderland parents are lucky that I’m not in charge of search and rescue missions because if I were, I would tell them to keep their children at home until they have the matu- rity and the wisdom to decide what activities they should and should not be undertaking. In short, I would issue the following warning; “If this happens again, either to Abby or to any of your younger children, don’t call us! We definitely feel for you, but there will be no ships or planes sent out again to find a kid of yours, a kid who is too young to be out there in the first place. Call it a threat if you wish. Call it whatever you choose. What you’re doing is not gutsy. It’s nutsy!” That would be my message. But for now I’m wondering when dad is going to write a book, or maybe go on the lec- ture circuit. If he does that, he may be somewhat less nutsy than it appears, at least with regard to money. His parenting skills remain questionable. Before they put another child “out to sea” they should be made to put down a “rescue deposit” to be used in case a rescue is needed. I have better things to do with my money than to rescue some self-serving child! O

Hannah Berman lives in Woodmere and is a licensed real-estate broker associated with Marjorie Hausman Realty. She can be reached at [email protected] or 516-902-3733.

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 33 bushy as the mighty Cedars of Lebanon. and perversely making Old Helen into the Sure, she’s an Arabist and supporter of the new poster child “victim” of the omnipo- phantom “Palestinians” and the mythic tent “Jewish-owned media machine.” kingdom of “Palestine.” But she did come They have reinvigorated, emboldened, down to a Jewish Heritage Day festival and satisfied the anti-Semitic mob of and offered nice advice for Jewish chil- internet yahoos who spew forth hatred dren hoping to enter the fourth estate of of our people over the web at an alarming journalism. I hardly think she came down algorithmic and exponential rate. And, Time To Lay Low In The Goldene Medina there just to “stick it” to the kids’ parents by telling them that Jews should “get the The Wicked Witch of the West Wing throne not three feet from the presiden- hell out of Palestine.” reared her haggard ugly head this week, tial podium. So let’s step back and say I think that maybe she was served Old Helen was just capping a truly remarkable and remark- “Thank you, Helen,” for all the laughs. some bad herring or greasy latkes which ably amusing-to-watch journalism career Now, as for this week’s punking of Old combined to put her in a foul mood, or some chum that was with a rambling tirade against our fellow Helen by the rabbinic equivalent of maybe she was just putting it on for the Jews in “Palestine.” As old Helen Thomas Stuttering John from the old Howard cameras—thinking that this was the put before our eyes by probably remembers the Balfour Stern Show, that, in its own way, was the Wizards audition her agent promised her. Declaration firsthand—and maybe even pinnacle of her long-time television Of course, there is another possibility— a “fishing rabbi” who the Russian pogroms, and possibly even appearances. If you watch the whole that she actually thought she was being our expulsion from Spain in the 15th cen- video on YouTube, you can appreciate it interviewed by Howard Stern’s “people” was trying to set tury—many Americans have long as a screen test for her audition as the and that she was actually doing a “pre- admired her spunk, tenacity, and youth- Wicked Witch of The West Wing in the emptive punking” on Howard. records on YouTube. ful good looks. How many of us have not upcoming remake of the Wizard of Oz— Whatever the case, I think that had at least six good chuckles over the to be set in Washington D.C.—tentatively Abraham “Sly” Foxman should have course of her illustrious career—turning code-named The Wizards of O. relaxed a little and laughed it off. He and the spit, poking the barbecue fork, and But seriously folks, the Ancient One is the Jewish media outlets made such a this is why it may be time for us to “lay a pressing the spatula against current and actually of admitted Arab descent—hail- tzimmes over the otherwise lo-fi internet, little bit low,” as that great Jewish capital- past American presidents, perched on her ing from old Lebanese stock as old and giving the comments too much publicity ist, Lloyd Blankfein, had previously advised his senior management at Goldman Sachs. Speaking of Goldman Sachs, they, along with Bear Stearns and Lehman Brothers, have the distinction of bearing the brunt of internet chat room anti- Semitism of the most virulent strain. Questionable politicians of the Tea Party persuasion such as Rep. Ron Paul and his son, Rand Paul, have thinly-veiled ram- blings of investigating and ending the Federal Reserve Banking System and its current chairman Benzion Bernanke and Alan Greenspan (emphasis made to their Jewish roots). The only “Paul” who has not maligned the Jewish people in any way is RuPaul! This extremely threatening situation which we find ourselves in may, unfortunately, become more precarious if we push our luck and publicly diss every minor bit player who makes an unfortu- nate or possibly, intentional, remark with limited shelf-life in the media, if left unstoked. We should save our “high noon” and “last stands” for our enemies who are worth it. Like Paul, Paul, and Duke, the Iranian tie-less fashion plate, Hezbollah, and the United Nations. We were spot on with our defense of the Israeli response to the flotilla, but Old Helen was just some chum that was put before our eyes by a “fishing rabbi” who was trying to set records on YouTube. Why do we fall for such stupidity? Finally, if any of you are actually wondering when the tide began to turn for Jews in America, and indeed, internationally, it was all after our arch nemesis, Mel Gibson, made his views known. I’m not

34 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES referring to his famous “perp-walk” inter- s”xc view with the policemen who arrested him and his resulting anti-Semitic solilo- quy, but rather his earlier rabidly obscurely Catholic rendering of a modern cinematic passion play, The Passion, which ignited old nasty clichés and re- awakened ancient dormant hatred unfortunately disguised as Christian Pride, by both religious and secular Christians internationally. I vividly remember talking head anchors and “experts,” alike, professing their belief, love, and allegiance to Christian tenets to shocked Jewish leaders on cable news networks and arguing why The Passion was so important to make and be seen by every Christian in the world. Fox News acted accordingly as did MSNBC and CNN—people who had lived and even covered the Watergate hearings and had admittedly lost their faith in government and even read the New York Times pro- claiming that G-d is dead back somewhere in the early 1970’s. Shocking and scary, to say the least. That’s when I, personally, started thinking about how beautiful the Negev is and how I would love to move there someday soon! So, let’s put this all in perspective— let’s lay low and don’t waste our arrows! Old Helen is just not worth it. And, for that matter, neither is that spankin’ new Porsche, Mercedes, Maserati, or Bentley you just leased, or your newly extended home in the garden of the Finzi Continis. Sell your Prada and Jimmy Choos on eBay and renew your passport quick . . . because I’m telling you straight—“Word Up!” This is the Legendary Danny O’Doul signing off and wishing all of you a Great Good Shabbos—one in which your thoughts are on menuchah, tefillah, and Yishuv Eretz Yisrael! O

Because you did not believe in Me (Bamidbar 20:12)

[At the burning bush,] Moshe said:“But, behold, they will not believe me” (Sh’mos 4:1). Said G-d to him:“They are believers, the sons of believers; you, however, will ultimately fail to believe.They are believers, as it is written,‘And the people believed’ (ibid. v. 31); the sons of believers, as it is written ‘And [Abraham] believed’ (Bereishis 15:6); whereas you will ultimately fail to believe, as it is written:‘Because you did not believe Me.’”

(Talmud, Shabbat 97a)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 35 It all sounds nice and good in a short awful your childhood was. Becoming the column about forgiving and forgetting, parentafied child is unfair on so many but this is real life. My real life. And I’m levels. It does sound as though you wondering if you can even imagine how missed out on being a carefree child, with it feels to be me and carry all of this childish concerns. As the oldest sibling, around every single minute of every day. you carried the weight of the world on It’s unbearable. I think you need to view your small shoulders. It is quite amazing this story from the other side. The side of to hear about all of the responsibilities Dear Esther, them doing any of the things that I found the victim—the child. Me. that you handled at a time when you As I read last week’s column, I found myself doing. Hurt should have been playing with your myself starting to shake. Clearly, it wasn’t I never invited friends over. How could Dear Hurt, friends and worrying about your upcom- my mother writing in to you. However, I even begin to explain how weird my I’m sorry if I gave you the impression ing science project. the story could have been mine. I too house was? I pretty much didn’t even that I believe that I can truly ever feel the And all of that is small potatoes com- grew up with a mother who suffered have friends anyway. My time was so pain you’ve felt all of your life, living with pared to how frightening it must have from mental illness. I remember more filled up with responsibility that I had no a depressed mother and a father who felt for you and your brothers and sisters often than not, her staying in bed all day time to actually be a child, doing what to have a sick mother. A mother who with the blinds drawn, in total darkness. children naturally are supposed to do. often couldn’t even get out of bed during I knew when I wasn’t allowed to even I can keep going with stories of my the day. I suspect that no one was walk into her room, under any circum- crazy childhood. Thank G-d I got through It is in anyone’s best explaining to you what was going on and stances. It was like we all lived with this it, but I paid a very heavy price. And I still you probably could only imagine the very dark cloud hanging over us. carry around with me a lot of anger interest to make worst. Clearly you lived in terror and Since I was the firstborn, it quickly toward both my parents for allowing this dread amidst a lot of confusion. became my responsibility to care for my situation to take place. peace with their past, I get it, as much as anyone who didn’t younger brothers and sisters. My father So when I read about forgiveness, literally live it can get it. You were dealt wasn’t a bad guy, but he believed that moving on, all of those nice concepts, I so that they can an awful hand. You did miss out on your his office job came first, and so natural- really want to scream. How can you childhood. You can never get it back. Your ly I became first in command. I couldn’t expect anyone to forgive a parent who actually live in their parents have a lot of explaining to do, if have been more than six or seven when robs you of your childhood? This is some- they haven’t already done so. You are I was already making sure that my sib- thing that you can never get back, and it present. most deserving of profound apologies lings had breakfast in the morning, were affects your entire life. and immeasurable compassion. dressed for school, and made the bus. If I don’t want you to think that I don’t However, there are two important con- anyone missed the bus, there was no feel sorry for my mother. Yes, I agree, she cepts that ultimately help everyone make way any of us would make it to school. didn’t ask to have this illness in her life. sounds as though he pretty much it through the day, whether someone has Before long, I was in charge of home- But then why go and have a handful of checked out, in terms of caring for his small injuries to deal with or over-the-top work and even dinner. I started cooking children, if you’re not capable of caring children. Only someone who has literally ones, like yourself. And the first one, at an age when it should have been illegal for them? And how could my father walked in your exact shoes can begin to which seemed to have hit a raw nerve for someone so young to cook. I think have just gone about living his life, just empathize with your pain. But no two with you, is that of forgiveness. I think back and can’t believe I was dealing with assuming that I would pick up the slack? stories are ever exactly the same, which people often don’t entirely understand sharp knives and fire. As I look at my own How do you forgive such behavior? How means that your experience will always what forgiveness is all about. Some peo- children, who are living the way kids can a child move on from so much loss feel unique to you. their age should be living, I can’t imagine and injustice? I would never dare to minimize how Continued on Page 38

36 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 37 MINDBIZ Continued from Page 36 ple think it means that by forgiving another person, one is stating that their past behavior is all right and that it can be con- doned. But that isn’t why people forgive and totally misses the point. People forgive for what could actually be viewed as self- ish reasons. They forgive in order to feel better, to lighten their load, to stop giving the “guilty party” access to their thoughts on an ongoing basis. When you hold a grudge, no matter how justified that grudge is, you are the one suffering, not the person whom you’re thinking about. It can eat away at you, take over your mind, and bring a negative energy into everything you do. It can become an obses- sion, with a life of its own. For those reasons alone, it is in anyone’s best interest to make peace with their past, so that they can actually live in their present. It doesn’t mean that they like their past, or that what happened is O.K. in any which way, it only means that they’ve paid a steep enough price and are not willing to continue paying that price. The other important concept, which I touched upon in my last column, is the idea that we all can and should take responsibility for our adult lives. It does sound as though you’ve gotten married and have children of your own, whom you are raising the way you would have liked to have been raised. Good for you. That’s a fantastic accomplishment for you and I applaud you. However, I still do hear a great deal of anger coming from you, and so much blame. Some of it is definitely justified and some of it may not be. But as an adult, it’s never helpful to even go there. What for? There comes a time in our lives when we hopefully decide that we can make life choices and strive to be the very best we can be, either because of or in spite of some very crippling childhoods. I often say that we are all the walking wounded. Your wounds may be significantly deeper than your neighbor’s, but large or small, it is incumbent upon everyone to stay in the moment and look toward the future with optimism. Anger, grudges, and pity parties hold us hostage. Letting go, freeing our psyches, and feeling compassionate and loving toward others and ourselves is truly a better choice. Maybe the only choice if you want to know happiness. Esther

Esther Mann, LMSW, is a therapist and life coach in Lawrence. Esther can be reached at 516-314-2295 or [email protected]. She works with individuals, couples, and families. 38 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Summer: The Same Thing Only Different

The summer is upon us! Where did the Country Day as the expert baking assis- time go? As we are preparing for another tant, so I will still have another Lubin school year to end, we are anticipating staff member at camp this summer, and the fun we will have during our (all too) an “in” to get some fresh baked goods at brief summer break. the pool. Lea will be in the G3’s this year; Although I work in a law firm through- my baby is growing up! out the year, my summers have a different ingredient: Avnet Country Day. Somehow this will be my 15th summer at the pool and I can’t wait! I can’t wait to I can’t wait to see see the smile on children’s faces when they realize they can float without sink- the smile on ing and when they manage to swim across the width of the pool. Children can children’s faces accomplish a lot in a relatively short amount of time, and it’s absolutely won- when they realize derful to be a part of it! Each summer, although similar to the they can float last, is different. It is exciting to see the return of past campers, and how they without sinking. have matured over the year, and interesting to see their progress in the pool. In addition, every year my own children have different experiences. This year there is even more excite- This year, my eldest son, having just ment in the air. Yussie has been attending graduated with a degree in computer sci- Camp Anchor the past few summers. ence, is off in the working world. No Camp Anchor is a terrific program spon- more classes to keep him up late at night, sored by the Town of Hempstead for chil- but interesting projects at work to occu- dren with special needs in Lido Beach. py his mind during the day and beyond. This year we have decided to go a differ- He is maturing into a fine young man and ent route. Yussie will be “mainstreamed,” has a bright future ahead of him! The rest albeit with a shadow, into a regular bunk of the Lubin clan is also ready for new at Camp Hillel. Kulanu has a “camp with- experiences. in a camp” program there, and although My eldest daughter, having just fin- we have chosen to have him in a typical ished her second year in college, is now group, having Kulanu’s presence at camp being mentored by a doctor in the pedi- will hopefully help guide the group lead- atric emergency room at Columbia ers to better incorporate him into the Presbyterian Hospital. She has interesting bunk. stories to bring home and will surely We want Yussie to have as much main- have a taste of medicine she will not find streaming opportunities as possible, in any classroom. along with an opportunity to be within a Rivka is preparing to go off to sleep- Jewish environment. I pray that Yussie away camp this summer. I had her as a will make the transition to this different colleague at the pool last summer, but program smoothly. this year she has chosen to share her life- Stay tuned for updates on all of the guarding expertise with the lucky young Lubins’ summer progress! O girls at Camp Dina. We will miss her this Phyllis Joy Lubin is an attorney with Rosenfeld & summer, but she will have a chance to Maidenbaum, LLP, who resides in Cedarhurst have an “away” experience, and we wish with her husband Leonard and six children: Naftali, Shoshana, Rivka, Rochel, Yosef, and Lea. her only the best success! She welcomes your questions and comments at Rochel will still be working at Avnet [email protected].

Birthdays Birthdays come but once a year, A time to rejoice with those you hold dear! Cake and presents and happiness to share, And hopes and dreams for the future make you aware, How important it is to make the most of the time that you have, And make sure that you spend it making others enjoy life and laugh! June (Sivan) is quite busy for the Davidson and Lubin clan, Naftali, “Zayde Ike” (my father-in-law), Lenny, and “Grandma Esther” (my Mom) fill up the month with their birthdays, Each one is special in our family; we are all their fans! The message I am trying to impart with not too many words, Is that I love you all, in case you haven’t heard! A very Happy Birthday to you all!

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 39 Thus the laws of the Red Heifer are intro- the Torah from G-d, they were restored to duced by the Torah with the word “This is the original perfection in which man was the chok of the Torah,” as if to say: This is first created. The Torah reinstated the orig- the Torah’s ultimate chok, the mitzvah that inal, unadulterated bond between G-d and most vividly demonstrates the supra-ration- man, so that man was once more granted ality of its Divine commandments. “freedom from the Angel of Death.” But this time, too, the state of perfect The Mystery Of Death connection to G-d was short-lived. Forty Indeed, explains the Lubavitcher Rebbe days after the people of Israel stood at From The Chassidic Masters (in a talk delivered upon the conclusion of Sinai, they transgressed the Divine decree the Sheloshim of his rebbetzin’s petirah), of “You shall have no other gods before Me” the most incomprehensible of human by worshipping a calf of gold. The pesti- The Calf’s Mother experiences—the phenomenon of lence of death, introduced into the world death—can be sublimated only with the by Adam’s sin and banished at Sinai, was Certainly the most esoteric chapter in the most severe of all impurities; yet most incomprehensible of Divine mitzvos, reintroduced by the sin of the Golden Calf. the Torah is the one containing the laws those involved in its preparation become the ashes and water of the Red Heifer. This explains the connection between of the “Red Heifer” (Parah Adumah), com- ritually impure themselves. Physically and biologically, death the Red Heifer and the Golden Calf manded by G-d to Moshe as an antidote b) The Red Heifer must be completely makes perfect sense (indeed, it is the phe- expressed in the Midrashic parable: A to the state of ritual impurity engendered red (as few as two hairs of a different nomenon of life that defies explanation). maid’s child once dirtied the royal palace. by contact with death. The Midrash color disqualify it)—a color which has Yet we all—even a man such as Moshe— Said the king: “Let his mother come and describes how Shlomo haMelech, “the connotations of sin and deficiency in find death utterly incomprehensible and clean up her child’s filth.” By the same token, wisest of men,” was baffled by it and how Torah and Torah law; yet it must also be utterly devastating to our sense of reality. G-d says: “Let the Heifer atone for the deed of Moshe, the very vehicle of G-d’s commu- “perfect, without blemish.” Despite all the “evidence” to the contrary, the Calf” (Midrash Tanchumah, Chukas 8). nication of His Torah to man, turned pale c) The Torah commands that it be something deep inside us insists that life is In the world after the Golden Calf, the upon encountering the prospect of con- slaughtered outside the holy city of the natural, axiomatic state of the human imperfection in our relationship with G-d tamination by death. He found utterly Jerusalem (in contrast with other kor- being, and that its cessation is a violation finds its most noxious expression in the incomprehensible the process of its recti- banos, which must be slaughtered in the of the most basic law of existence. phenomenon of death. Contact with fication, crying out to G-d: “Master of the courtyard of the Beis HaMikdash). On the For such, in truth, is the fundamental death thus spawns the most severe form Universe! This is a purification?!” other hand, it must be slaughtered within nature of man. Yes, the human body is physi- of spiritual impurity, which can be miti- It’s not just that the law of the Red sight of the Mikdash and its blood is sprin- cal flesh, and as such shares the dissoluble gated only by the mother of the Golden Heifer cannot be logically explained; kled “toward the Holy of Holies”; accord- nature of all things physical. But it is animated Calf, the most supra-rational of the indeed, there exists an entire category of ing to one opinion, it must be slaughtered by a soul that is a “spark of the Divine” and for- Divine decrees—the Red Heifer. mitzvos, called chukim (“decrees”), whose by the Kohein Gadol himself, wearing the tified with the eternity and indestructibility of This was G-d’s reply to Moshe’s cry of defining criteria is that they transcend white garments reserved for the Yom its Source. In essence, human life is eternal. Master of the universe! This is a purifica- human understanding. What’s unique Kippur service in the Kodesh HaKodoshim. Indeed, the first man was created to live tion?! “Moshe,” G-d said, “it is a chok, a about the Red Heifer is that while the d) The two components of the purify- forever. But then he violated the Divine decree that I have decreed.” Certain things other chukim at least follow an internal ing mixture—ashes and spring water— Will, thereby distancing himself from his are so overwhelming to My creations that logic of their own, the laws of the Red represent two contradictory forces: fire, Source and introducing the phenomenon they can only be overcome by submitting Heifer are fraught with paradox and which represents the power of ascent, of death into the human experience. to an absolute command from an absolute inconsistency. For example: and water, which embodies the quality of Our Sages tell us that when the a) The ashes of the Red Heifer remove “settling down” and saturation. Children of Israel stood at Sinai to receive Continued on Page 46

40 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES calls from the local Polish clergy and they would be left alone. They went to The Fifth Of Tammuz: nobility to resist. A horrific slaughter their homes and returned with funds for of both Jews and Poles ensued. The ransom but were killed anyway. city of Uman became the city of the The penalty for any Haidamak found Remembering The Victims slaughtered. For the next six days, the helping a Jew was death. Following the massacre continued. massacre, as children who survived were BY LARRY DOMNITCH Gonta, hoping the Jews would not offer Some incidents of the Haidemak entry roaming around in hunger searching for resistance, sent an amiable letter to a are mentioned. food, some Haidamaks took pity and In 1768, the Ukrainian city of Uman local rabbi who replied that if Gonta Haidemaks seized the daughter of aided children. They too were killed. and its surrounding areas was the scene remained a Jewish ally, he would have Rabbi Moshe. They brought her to a well The estimates of the slaughter, as dur- of a horrific massacre, reminiscent of the the loyalty and friendship of the Jewish and attempted to force her to accept bap- ing earlier and subsequent pogroms, horrors of the Chmielnitski massacres in community. Gonta really had no inten- tism by threatening to drown her. She from the 17th to the 20th century, vary. the Ukraine 120 years earlier. tion of making a pact with the Jews. remained steadfast, refusing to submit. They range from 12,000 to 30,000—the In April of that year, a rebellion of On Monday, the fifth of Tammuz, the When some wanted to throw her in the figure cited in the account. The author of Haidemaks, paramilitary Ukrainian Haidamaks arrived at the outskirts of well, she cried out, “I am willing to die. I’ll the account stated that the Jews and bands, broke out against the Polish nobil- Uman. They declared they wanted access even offer you my neck.” Polish priests lay in piles of dead that ity. An insurrection of this nature imme- to the city that evening. As they Approximately 80 Jews were hiding in could not be contained by the space of a diately meant danger for the Jews who approached, its inhabitants sealed the a cellar. As each Haidamak entered with “Shabbat boundary—2,000 amot or were hated by the Haidemaks. Wherever outer walls thus prohibiting any possible sword in hand he was struck down. Soon, approximately 2/3 of one mile. Following the Haidemaks went, slaughter ensued. breach. Those who resided outside the they set the barn aflame, suffocating all. the attacks, many also perished from dis- The first attacks swept through the cities city because of a lack of space within During the carnage, many Jews fled to ease and starvation as a result of the of Lisyanka, Golta, Tulchin, Paulovich, were massacred that day. the main synagogue where they armed destruction. Fastov, Zhivotov, Granov, and then The next day, the Haidamaks gathered themselves and put up a stiff defense. The account’s author stated, “We need spread to Teityev. Jews and Poles fled to around Uman. Their leader, Maxim One, Rabbi Leibish, with sword in hand to cry day and night over this hour,” when the local fortified city of Uman for protec- Zhelyeznyak, contacted Gonta who along had managed to kill 20 of the enemy. Uman was attacked, “Let this day (the tion. Uman belonged to the estate of a with his followers had joined the Rabbi Moshe Menaker also killed several. fifth of Tammuz) be a monument to their member of the affluent Potocki family. Haidamaks. He asked Gonta to write a let- Seeing that the Jews could not be defeat- memory.” He controlled guards who were under the ter to the head of the city stating that any ed, the Haidamaks sealed off the syna- The Chassidic giant Rabbi Nachman command of Ivan Gonta despite the fact effort to fight them was futile. He also gogue perimeter, brought a canon, and spent the last several months of his life in that he was suspected of being a sympa- falsely stated that he had orders from fire-blasted its walls as they then threw Uman. Suffering from tuberculosis, he thizer with the enemy Haidamaks. Czarina Catherine II, who allegedly had themselves upon the many who had knew his passing was near. He felt a spe- Unlike other catastrophes which befell offered some support to the Haidamaks, taken refuge. Haidamaks ran through the cial kinship with the many martyrs of the the Jews of the Ukraine where accounts to kill all the Jews of southern Poland. streets in a frenzy, killing and looting massacre of Uman, and his fervent desire exist, information on this enormous The letter stated, “Either hand over the Poles and Jews. was to be buried near them. tragedy is limited. Jews or let us in to clean them out.” The Extortion was a common practice dur- The fifth of Tammuz was designated as The following is based upon one executive consented out of fear. But ing pogroms in the Ukraine. However, a day of repentance and fasting for the account by an anonymous author enti- Polish priests and nobility, along with the paying the sums demanded by the victims of the massacre of Uman and its tled, The Sword of Gonta: Jews, armed themselves and prepared for Haidamaks did not guarantee that one surrounding communities. May the After the Haidamaks attacked and battle. would be spared. Some Haidamaks went memories of those with pure hearts and destroyed the Jewish community of The executive soon opened the city to the city hall and informed the local souls who made the ultimate sacrifice be Teitov, they approached Uman. Ivan gates as per his agreement—despite Jewish merchants that for a high price, for a blessing. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 41 duck in a foolish effort to protect a period of months or years at a more man- newly-coiffed hairdo. ageable monthly figure. In the boom Beneath The Law The name of the game is to first pre- years, credit was offered at special teaser serve your capital, save your home, rates, as in the case of variable-rate mort- retain your car, and forget about your gages and home equity loans, or at 0% for What Banks Don’t Want You 5. Types of credit utilized (10% credit score. Banks are just not lending a period of months, as in the case of cred- To Know About Debt Repayment weighting) anymore anyway, and if you haven’t it cards, or low-interest rates on auto leas- BY DANIEL FRIEDMAN, ESQ. It is quickly evident that as servicing experienced it already, most credit card es and loans. However, in today’s climate your debt became a larger responsibili- issuers are cutting back your credit lines of restricted credit, a very different “real” How many of you have fretted over ty, consumers concerned with protect- ,and banks are canceling your lines of interest rate scenario has evolved. your “FICO credit score,” or credit rating, ing their credit scores took on more home equity. Even department stores Mortgages, while heralded as the “low- as if it were a holy vessel or precious arti- sources of credit (Category 5), thereby have gotten in on the game, though they est in a lifetime,” are in reality more diffi- fact that must be maintained in pristine increasing their debt load (Category 4), rarely cancel your card entirely. As you cult to obtain than during the boom condition, lest your world crumble like a and added to their overall recent debt may surmise, the latest wave of mort- years. Not only does the borrower need month-old hamantashen. This mindset (Category 2). Clearly, this was all done gage defaults, credit card delinquencies, to document his or her verifiable income was evident among those saddled by high and assets, but he must be able to put 20- debt load even during the boom years. 30% down “in cash” as a prerequisite for How many homeowners drew down 30 year financing. their home equity lines to pay off credit If the average house in the Five Towns debt, student loans, and multiple auto They are negatively impacting 50% sells for $600,000, this means that the payments, just so that their credit scores borrower must put down $120,000 and would remain untarnished? And now have the verifiable income and assets to that the economy has weakened to a pre- of their credit score components qualify for the loan. Parenthetically, this viously unseen level, for those homeown- is perhaps the leading reason for the soft ers or small businesses who increased to positively impact only 35%. national housing market. their debt loads, or more commonly, sub- In the realm of auto leasing, the “invis- stituted secured debt for unsecured debt, ible interest rate” known as a “money fac- the economic pressures of servicing such tor” has actually risen substantially, and debt have potentially much darker and coupled with the decreasing “residual more dire consequences. to maintain and protect their payment and late car payments have really value” of the car (estimated and assumed So how is your FICO score calculated? history. Using a mathematical odds spooked the nation’s banks and lending value of the auto after the term of the FICO scores are calculated from several approach, they are negatively impact- institutions and convinced them to err loan) has caused both the principal and sources of credit data in your credit ing 50% of their credit score compo- on the side of caution—meaning access interest portions of the car payments to report. Such information may be divided nents to positively impact only 35% of to credit will be extremely limited over rise by about 20-30%. Throw in the man- into five categories: the credit score components. As you the next few years. ufacturers’ tightening of incentives and 1. Payment history (35% weighting); can clearly see, such money manage- By the way, have you ever asked your- rebates on their cars, and you are left 2. Total amount of credit actually out- ment and prioritization of debt repay- self what the purpose of credit is? It is with a scenario that has made almost standing and owing (30% weighting) ment is counterproductive and similar borrowing money which you don’t cur- everyone think about driving cheaper 3. Length of credit history (15% weighting) to a man stuck in a dung pit who, as a rently have (or you do, but do not want to models than in the past and has priced 4. Most recent additions to credit (10% bird circles overhead, about to drop a spend such a large chunk at once) to weighting) bit of good luck upon him, proceeds to make a major purchase and repay over a Continued on Page 48

42 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 43 44 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

5TJT Puzzle Page: Shakespeare

B Y YONI GLATT

Across 63. Lease a house again 1. Wound covering 64. A Baldwin 5. Kind of shorts 65. Definitely 9. Remain 66. Withered 13. Where Honolulu is 67. Smaller (than) 14. Place 68. You don’t give them in Australia 15. Burn crime Down 17. Impersonator 1. Fly 18. Peel 2. Guitar add on 19. Disgusting 3. “Pardon me” 20. Shakespeare’s tragic shidduch tale? 4. Part of FBI 23. Taylor of fashion 5. State in Brazil 24. Forerunner to “Because.” 6. Brockovich of note 25. With 37-Across, Comedy with a 7. E-mail option Hebrew Hero? 8. Islamic journey 32. Caspian water 9. “Come again?!” (slang) 34. Ipod ______s. Microsoft Zune 10. Sincerely exist (comparison) 11. Kinds of fungi 35. Italian volcano 12. Ox item Solution to appear in next week’s issue. 36. Coll. in the Windy City 16. Notable newspaper (init.) 37. See 25-Across 21. Where to watch Larry King 40. Suggestion 22. “Disgusting!” 41. bric-a-___ 25. Verbal bird 43. ______Deep 26. Preludes to virus and biotics 39. Check into 53. Undercover agent 44. First wife 27. Actor McGinley of “Scrubs” 42. One stating ownership 54. Like a famous office 45. Play about a Yiddish dictator? 28. Argentina’s most famous first lady 46. Inherent 55. Chisel (down) 49. Director Lee 29. Marine mammal 47. Australian boot 56. Many soccer scores 50. Recently deceased Kennedy 30. Coll. 48. Modify 57. Purse (Fr.) 51. Comedy with an anti-Semitic title? 31. Record 51. Sticky substance 58. Severely change 60. Smell 32. Sch. topic 52. False god of war 59. Not he’s 61. 8, alternatively 33. Ireland, locally 62. Where Moab now exists 38. Lady Macbeth had ______

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 45 legs to sunshine, are at even greater risk for times weekly (sunscreen with an SPF of levels are ascertained through a blood test Vitamin D low D, according to Dr. Helen Pappa, MD, a more than 20 should be applied immedi- known as “25 (OH) D”—or as it is also called, pediatric gastroenterologist at Children’s ately after sitting in the sun). Noted vita- “25 hydroxy vitamin D. This test is not to be Hospital in Boston, with whom I have con- min D expert Dr. Michael Hollick of Boston confused with “1,25-Dihydroxy,” which does Deficiency: sulted regarding this important topic. Medical Center—another expert with not test for deficiency. Moreover, the recent explosion in the whom I have conferred—advocates sitting To be continued . . . number of skin cancer cases has caused in the sun without sunscreen, five to thirty Eliezer Gruber, CN, educator, researcher, and A Silent Epidemic? the public to either avoid the sun altogeth- minutes a day, depending on the season, founder/developer of the Nutri-Supreme Research er or use more and stronger sunscreen, time of day, and skin pigmentation. line of supplements, lectures widely on the role of nutrition in achieving and maintaining optimal Part 2 which blocks vitamin D synthesis. Many Yet, given the skin cancer risks that have health. Mr. Gruber’s recommendations are based on experts, including the American Academy been associated with exposure to UV rays, cutting-edge science and ongoing communication BY ELIEZER GRUBER with leading medical experts. Nutri-Supreme acts as of Dermatology, feel that despite the evi- many experts are recommending that peo- official nutritional consultant for Kof-K Kosher In Part I , we began a discussion regard- dence supporting D’s importance, sun ple get their vitamin D from supplements. Supervision. Readers are invited to e-mail questions to Mr. Gruber at [email protected]. For ing the “epidemic” of vitamin D deficiency, exposure is imprudent, particularly when In a review for an edition of the Journal of information regarding a nutritional evaluation, call which has been linked to cancer and other it comes to children and infants. the American Academy of Dermatology, for 718-853-0644. serious conditions. The series continues Not everyone is on the same page, how- example, Dr. Barbara Gilchrest, MD, derma- this week with a look at optimal ways of ever, when it comes to sun exposure. An tology department chairman at Boston getting D into our bodies. article in the National Cancer Institute University, advises those already con- FROM THE CHASSIDIC MASTERS Journal maintains that some scientists are vinced by the body of evidence supporting Continued from Page 40 To Sun Or Shun beginning to suspect that avoidance of the vitamin D’s ability to fight disease to take While we can get vitamin D into our sun may be doing more harm than good. supplements rather than expose them- authority. I have therefore commanded bodies through our diets, one would have Also questioning the wisdom of shunning selves to the sun’s dangerous rays. laws to instruct you what to do when your to eat salmon several times a week or the sun is Edward Giovannucci, MD, ScD, lives are touched by death. These are drink at least ten glasses of milk a day—a professor of medicine and nutrition at What’s In A Number? supra-rational, even irrational laws, for dietary regimen most of us are not apt to Harvard University and Brigham and So what vitamin D levels are consid- only such laws can facilitate your recovery. follow—to satisfy the body’s requirements Women’s Hospital, who coauthored an ered optimal and how does one deter- It is only by force of an utterly incompre- for the important nutrient. (For people NCI-funded study that found a relation- mine if he or she is deficient? hensible Divine decree that you can recov- who are deficient, even those amounts ship between low blood levels of vitamin Dr. Robert Heaney, MD, professor of er from such utter devastation to a living would not be sufficient to bring D levels D and subsequent risk of colon cancer medicine at Creighton University being’s self-definition. up to par.) That’s why most experts agree among older women. His research shows Medical Center, and Dr. Bruce Hollis, PhD, Ultimately, however, there will come the that exposure to sunlight is the best possi- that deaths from colon cancer and other of the University of South Carolina, have day when the original bond between man and ble way of getting vitamin D. cancers that might positively respond to shared with me their view that adequate G-d will once more be restored. This time, our Getting the necessary amount of vita- the vitamin D one gets from sun exposure blood levels of vitamin D are between 40- prophets promise, it will be immune to disrup- min D from the sun is not as easy as it outnumber skin cancer deaths 30 to one. ng/ml to 60 ng/ml, with 40 ng/ml being at tion by sin, since G-d will “slaughter the inclina- sounds, however. For one thing, people in As a result of such research, some the low end of the optimal spectrum. And tion for evil” in the heart of man and “remove the Northern Hemisphere may have diffi- authorities now recommend routine limit- while appropriate vitamin D levels in the the spirit of impurity from the earth,” with the culty getting vitamin D in the winter due ed or “sensible” sun exposure. Dr. Catherine different pediatric age groups are still an result that “death shall cease forever.” O to infrequent exposure to direct sunlight. Gordon and her team at Children’s area of active study, Dr. Pappa maintains Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe; An interesting note: Children and adults in Hospital Boston recommend 10 to 15 that an acceptable level of vitamin D in adapted by Yanki Tauber. Courtesy of MeaningfulLife.com via Chabad.org. Find more the Orthodox Jewish community, who do minute periods of sun exposure at those children is between 30-40 ng/ml. Torah articles for the whole family at not generally expose their full arms and hours when the sun is strong, two to three In both children and adults vitamin D www.chabad.org/parshah.

46 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES from a reportorial voice off-camera. with a vacant expression and a baseball Whether one thinks the one-boy flag cap on sideways, who offers the inter- Right Of Return battalion foolhardy or fantastic probably viewer his own sage assessment. depends on whether one is or isn’t his “The only reason Israel is doing this,” parent. But it was hard not to smile at the he explains, though it’s not clear if he is BY RABBI AVI SHAFRAN Mere days before Ms. Thomas’s self- finger the teen metaphorically poked in referring to the Gaza blockade or to exist- revelation was publicly revealed, a similar the collective eye of the nearby mob. ing—“is because they got kicked out It’s always edifying when bigots who sentiment to hers was captured on cam- What I found most telling about the from, uh, the German . . . uh, whatever have managed to elude full exposure for era on the West Coast. Among the many clip, though, were its final seconds, when happened to them. So they’re trying to years suddenly slip and appear in full mass protests against Israel for having two decidedly un-angelic Angelenos, part take out their anger to someone else.” ingloriousness. dared, in the recent flotilla incident, to of the anti-Israel protest, appeared on “What about the Bible?” asks the Helen Thomas didn’t even need the actually enforce its embargo of a bad camera to answer questions. interviewer. alcohol that loosened Mel Gibson’s neighbor (which phrase presumably First came a young woman, hatred “The Bible?” the young man repeats, tongue and bared his sorry soul a few includes one who wishes to drive you pouring from her eyes like oil from an uncomprehending. years back. All it took for her was an into the sea) and against Israeli soldiers out-of-control gusher. Asked if she sup- “You know,” explains the interviewer. unguarded moment and an enterprising who had the chutzpah to shoot at people ported a “Palestinian state alongside “Solomon? Uh, the Jewish presence in blogger. But little doubt was left about her who were trying to kill them, was a Israel,” she rebukes the questioner angri- Israel in Biblical days?” own soul’s state by her sneering sugges- The response: “I don’t know about tion that Jews in Israel go “home” to that.” Poland and Germany. Presumably realiz- I’m sure he doesn’t. And, unfortunately, ing just how honest she had inadvertent- it would seem that he’s hardly alone. World ly allowed herself to be, she decided to They regard it as a sort of leaders and editorialists who speak and add “and America, and everywhere else,” write as if the Jewish presence in the Holy but what seemed to please her was clear- consolation prize for having Land is some modern development, that ly the prospect of Jews returning to places the justification for Jews to live in associated with their genocide. Jerusalem emerged ex nihilo from But the idea that Jews are somehow endured the Holocaust. European crematoria, are, if better-inten- newcomers to the Middle East, that the tioned, equally uninformed. And the infor- shtetl, not the Judean desert (despite its mation they are missing is truly central to name), is our natural habitat, is pernicious- the Israel-Palestinian conflict—and should ly widespread even among some politi- demonstration that took place on ly, wagging her finger and contorting her be central to any discussion of the same. cians and pundits who defend Israel Memorial Day near the Israeli Consulate face into a mask of anger. “No! No! No!” What they don’t realize, or choose to gloss uncompromisingly. While those who har- in Los Angeles. A mob chanted angry, she protests furiously. “The Jews”—speak- over, is that “Israel,” in the phrase “Land of bor a bit of Helenism (a new noun, inspired menacing slogans in the cause of peace. ing the word like it is a disfiguring dis- Israel,” refers not to a modern-day country by Ms. Thomas) cast Jews in Jerusalem as A widely viewed newscast video of the ease—“can live in a Palestinian state!” she but to an ancient people. criminal interlopers, there are also many demonstration made the rounds in sub- exclaims. “There should not be an Israeli That Jews over the past century haven’t untouched by the virus of Jew-resentment sequent days. It focused largely on a state.” Then, imagining her perfect world, come to the Holy Land. They have come who tend to view the Jewish presence in Jewish teenager who intrepidly walked she declares emphatically: “An Israeli back to it. O the Holy Land as a new development. They alongside the unholy warriors, holding state does not even exist!” © 2010 Am Echad Resources. Rabbi Shafran is regard it as a sort of consolation prize for aloft an Israeli flag and calmly, eloquent- Although she isn’t quite done, the cam- director of public affairs for Agudath Israel of having endured the Holocaust. ly, and pointedly answering questions era pans to her companion, a young man America.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 47 Beneath The Law tions have been extended to second mort- your gross income. There are possible legal methods is this: Do so only if you Continued from Page 42 gages and home equity loans, meaning provisions if you are otherwise “insol- absolutely must, and realize that your that a borrower can entirely clean up their vent,” which exceed the scope and pur- credit score will be affected by these some out of the market entirely. home-loan credit and begin paying a signif- pose of this article, but should first be dis- actions. However, as the alternatives for The last part of this puzzle is that the icantly reduced monthly payment. cussed with your tax preparer or CPA. many people are dire, and the advantages credit card issuers have almost universal- While there is no government pro- If you currently are in an auto lease to maintaining a high credit score are of ly eliminated 0% gimmicks and even low- gram for credit-card debt, a good legal which is draining your resources, and you ever-diminishing benefits, these debt-man- interest teaser rates, thus restricting advisor or credit counselor can cut down feel it is impossible to continue making agement strategies are life-savers to many. access to an alternative to auto loans and your existing credit-card debt significant- payments, you can look to swap your lease One last parting nugget: It has been business financing. ly. The only catch will be your ability and with someone who is looking for an speculated recently that the current FICO Now that you understand the current willingness to pay the settlement amount attractive automobile without the necessi- credit reporting system (which governs restrictive credit environment, you can (your original balance less the forgiven ty of putting up a capital cost reduction, the calculation of your credit score from appreciate how one can seek a legal advi- amount) which sometimes must be paid bank fee, and security deposit. If you only the three credit reporting agencies) will sor to guide you how to deal with your immediately, or over a period of several have a few months left on your current be dramatically overhauled in the near possibly overwhelming debt burden, future. If this revamping of the criteria without the need to file for personal occurs, all the people who strove so dili- bankruptcy. gently to maintain their scores in the face Firstly, of the few constructive programs A leasing company is probably not of mounting, staggering debt and “robbed (outside of “cash for clunkers”) which the Peter to pay Paul” to retain such scores, current administration has developed and will be like students who studied weeks implemented are the Homeowner going to go to the expense of for the final exam, only to find that their Affordability Acts which have led to many teacher had gotten ill the day before the homeowners gaining the ability to modify final, was in the hospital, and could not their existing mortgages into much easier repossessing a car they are scheduled prepare the test! payment terms without adding much to I invite your questions by e-mail at either the principal or the interest on the to receive back in a few months. [email protected]. O loan. This means that if you have missed mortgage payments for about a year, and Daniel Friedman, Esq. is a shomer Shabbos attorney located in Woodmere, New York and has even the property tax payments, your recently been added to the mortgage bank will add these amounts to months, depending on the credit card lease, your advisor may be able to request www.frumcentral.com-endorsed list of attorneys. Nothing appearing in this column should be the back end of your current mortgage issuer. In this environment most credit that your auto leasing company forgo the construed as legal advice, nor shall it be relied (thus modifying your balance amount card issuers and banks are taking a more balance of the payments until the end of upon without first consulting with an attorney. upward), but cut your interest rate to a gov- pragmatic approach and are more willing the lease, or negotiate a buy-back of the car ernment-mandated variable rate for the to settle, especially if you are very delin- at a reduced rate, thereby saving the cur- first five years—starting at 1% and rising quent on the account. rent payments due. yearly by an additional 1% until it reaches One thing to keep in mind is that you You must realize that a leasing compa- WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? the “cap-out amount” at the end of this must consult your accountant, because ny is probably not going to go to the period at, say, 4.75%. The remaining 25% of the amount of the “loan forgiveness” expense of repossessing a car which they E-MAIL US AT your mortgage will be paid at the 4.75% extended by the bank in the settlement are scheduled to receive back in a few fixed rate. Within the past few months, of the credit card debt is deemed by the months. The key to preserving your very [email protected] these government-mandated modifica- IRS as taxable income and will add to limited capital utilizing these perfectly

48 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Taking The Plunge young couples looking to purchase apart- Back when my friends and I got ments for their first home-buying experi- engaged, after the excitement and the par- ence, but also parents purchasing these The Candyman ties to celebrate the engagement, the first apartments for the newly married or to- order of business was searching for an be-married kids. These parents see it as an Those of you who don’t follow sports especially exciting that the Chicago apartment to live in. There were plenty of investment in their children’s future. They can probably skip the next few para- Blackhawks reached the finals this year buildings to choose from at that time. Co- also see the upside of potentially reaping graphs as you won’t be able to relate. (and were crowned champions). What ops and condos were not the norm of the the benefits financially from the future Watching (and attending) sporting events wasn’t so exciting was the schedule of day, and just about every apartment build- value of their apartment investment. is one of the things I miss here in Israel. games. Each game started at around 3:15 ing at that time was a rental building. With the other segments of the housing Yes, it was very cool when the Israel a.m. here in Israel. Since we wanted to Buying an apartment or house either market, homes, second homes, etc., open- Baseball League had its only season (we watch “live” and not take the chance of prior to marriage or right after a young ing opportunities for buyers with lower were Bet Shemesh Blue Sox season ticket getting the results before watching, we couple first married was an unheard of pricing, the coop and condo markets have holders). But, overall, with the exception woke up between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m. to luxury back then. also followed suit. The drops in pricing of football games (which air at night here), watch the games (fast forwarding Typically, a newly married couple would have created many investment opportuni- I really do not catch that many games. through commercials and breaks). rent an apartment for a few years, save for ties that are opening all kinds of possibili- I have a Slingbox connection to U.S. By the time Chicago won the series, I a down payment for their first house— ties for those with monies wanting to sports TV (which is how I get to watch my think I may have been happier that the usually one not that much larger than the invest in real estate, but finding houses a beloved Chicago Bears), but even when I games were over than about the fact that apartment they were presently living in, little too steep for their pocketbooks. tape other sports games to watch at a Chicago won. It was exhausting to be up but theirs just the same—and then live in Our neighborhood continues to be in later time, the time difference makes it every other day so early and a relief that I that starter house for however much time hot demand as the place to be and the place difficult to really enjoy watching. Most could go back to a normal sleeping pattern. it took them to move up to a larger home. to live. With that in mind, all apartments games that I tape are night games, and by Even the Friday night game was a Times have changed and the advent of the and houses for sale continue to be in the time I get home from work the next killer. Goldie and I had bought tickets for coop and condo market has introduced demand now more than ever for those who day, I almost always know the results in a comedy show on Motzaei Shabbat and other options and possibilities for young cou- take advantage of the times and jump in. O advance of watching, which ruins the instead of watching the game at 9:00 p.m. ples who would ordinarily rent or older cou- experience. If the specific game is really with Chaim, I watched it until 2:30 a.m. Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and is a licensed ples ready to sell their homes and move into real-estate broker and a licensed N.Y.S. mortgage important to me to watch, I end up when we got home. smaller spaces. Although rentals are still an broker with over 20 years of experience, offering full- spending the day avoiding all online The show, Comedy for Koby, was out- option, many opt for the purchase of a coop service residential and commercial real-estate services activity or speaking to anyone who may standing, so I am happy we went. Comedy (Anessa V Cohen Realty) and mortgaging services or condo, allowing them the opportunity of (First Meridian Mortgage) in the Five Towns and spill the beans (and even that is less than for Koby is an outstanding program of the an affordable home ownership alternative. throughout the tri-state area. She can be reached at 50% effective). Koby Mandell Foundation. Twice a year, a 516-569-5007 or via her website, www.AVCrealty.com. This year, with prices even more afford- Readers are encouraged to send questions or As a diehard everything Chicago able than ever, we are seeing not only comments to [email protected]. (except the hated White Sox) fan, it was Continued on Page 52

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 49 I hire a professional videographer, at ters of Baka or the German Colony, near Becoming A TV Star In Jerusalem their expense, to put my best face on the cafes and boutiques, yet in a quiet camera. So, in record time, I tracked enough enclave where she didn’t hear the B Y SIMA MENORA coming to Israel to shoot its reality TV down Harvey Stein, videographer extra- hustle-bustle of the street and could raise show called “House Hunters ordinaire, to record what I now refer to her kids in a warm, homelike atmosphere. About three months ago, Jonathan, International” and the powers that be at as my fateful screen test. (If my dear At the same time, she needed lots of one of the partners at my firm, sent me my firm decided that I should be the readers have nothing better to do, feel space. She loves to entertain, so the an email. That is, by the way, how we do realtor featured. For the uninitiated, the free to view my screen test at kitchen needed to be large, and some much of our correspondence—even if show follows the same format every http://vimeo.com/10687968). extra bedrooms for her overnight guests we’re sitting just desks apart! week: a realtor meets a client, asks the For the majority of you who do have would be a great plus. The email had as its subject “Do you client for his wish list—important something better to do, Harvey video- Wow, quite a long list, but happily we want to be a TV star?” My interest was things like location, budget, size, and taped me walking around our Wolfson had the perfect homes to show her—two piqued, yet my heart started to do some- then the little extras that will make or office, doing a close approximation to in Baka and one in the German Colony. thing that held an uncanny resem- break the deal—and then brings the working, and then showing one of our Well, time flies, and soon enough I blance to a break dance. I knew that client to three different homes that nearby villas for sale. He edited the tape found myself welcoming the House and once I opened this email there was no coincide with his requests. At the end of and voila, I was a shoe-in! Once I got the Garden film crew to our Wolfson office. turning back. Once Jonathan gets his the show comes the big ‘reveal’, which go-ahead, I chose my client, Hayley, a We start out by filming a short meet- mind on something—for instance this has the client settled into the home of vibrant young mother of four, and asked and-greet with Hayley and her friend column which started as a one-time his choice. her what she was looking for in a home. Joey (short for Joanna), who was asked guest column for Shmuel Katz and Well, we at Habitat like to do every- Well, Hayley was the perfect client. She along for a second opinion, and soon we turned into a weekly—well, I knew I thing right. Whereas the show request- was looking for an old Arab home, with were off to see the three homes from was in for something big. ed a few sentences about me and a high ceilings, stone arches, and inlaid which Hayley would choose her new It turns out Home and Garden TV is short video clip, the partners suggested ceramic floors in the cosmopolitan cen- Israel domicile. Home number one is a real handy- man’s special. Notwithstanding the over- million-dollar price tag, a lot of work needs to be done. In fact, it’s not even overpriced, as a fair amount of the reno- vation is already included in the price! Hayley, with her great sense of style, would clearly love to build her own home and put her own stamp on it, so this just may be the perfect home. Home number two is located in the German Colony, right near the ‘strip’, but the only noise you hear is the chirping of the birds. This one proves to be one dra- matic moment after another. We’re being filmed in the kitchen, chatting by the stunning earth-toned granite island when suddenly the doorbell rings. Who’s standing at the door? A young man carrying a huge birthday cake! It’s Joey’s birthday and her husband decides to surprise her on set (sounds real Hollywood, huh?) with a cake! No sooner do we settle back into filming, and the doorbell rings again! This time, a young woman toting an eight- month-old baby is standing at the door. She explains that she was born in this house and has always wanted to see what it looks like forty-odd years later, but there is never anyone home! She asks if we would mind if she takes a look around. Of course, sensing the potential for drama in the moment, we all jump at the opportunity and welcome her with open arms. Fifteen minutes and seven pairs of teary eyes later, we’ve got some amazing footage! Well, the drama alone might be enough to sell Hayley this house, not to mention its inlaid ceramic floors, high ceilings, and wonderful garden! And then we’re on to house number three: a completely redone garden duplex in the heart of Baka. The owners did a perfect job of mix- ing the old with the new—again the high ceilings, stone arches, and inlaid floors, but with much more, and a lovely garden with the cutest little cottage, to boot! Well, the filming lasted three days. Then Hayley and Joey went to one of Jerusalem’s most picturesque places to make their choice. Which did Hayley choose? I guess you’ll just have to wait with the rest of us to find out! O

Sima Menora is a realtor in Jerusalem, specializing in sales of existing homes and new developments. Feel free to call her at 0528-342-390 or 1-718-989-3939, or e-mail [email protected]. If you happen to be in Wolfson, stop by to say hi! 50 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 51 ALIYAH CHRONICLE funny from start to finish), and when Avi Izzy was the candyman in Rabbi and something every kid in shul looked Continued from Page 49 Lieberman had a dialogue with my boss Rosenthal’s shul in Chicago (the shul is now forward to each week. Yet, as I look back, (who is also a local Modiin rabbi) and a Lubavitch high school). Each Shabbat, it was not the gum that made the biggest Jewish L.A.-based comedian, Avi skewered him, my entire week was made. every child in shul would go over to Izzy impact on me. The thing that stuck with Lieberman, brings three comedians for a With the lack of English-speaking and had to wish him a Good Shabbos and me the most was his insistence that every multi-city tour here in Israel. The show entertainment here outside the major shake his hand in order to receive the cov- child offer him a proper Good Shabbos plays to packed houses in Yerushalayim, greeting and that the boys shake his hand Tel Aviv, Haifa, Bet Shemesh, Modiin, when doing so. It lent a dignity and for- Raanana, and Efrat. With a private donor mality to his greeting. underwriting the tour, the shows raise He also had a special policy of hosting money to send children who are from By the time Chicago won the series, us for a meal when we would spend a families with terror victims to a terrific year in Israel. I still have the picture that summer camp program. I think I may have been happier that was taken at the Plaza Hotel’s patio break- We had heard about the show, but for fast when Yaakov Lopin (a childhood some reason, Goldie and I had not gone friend of mine from Chicago who dav- to one before. Our schedule did not allow the games were over than about the ened in the same shul) and I joined Izzy us to go to the Bet Shemesh show; there for breakfast. Very fond memories. instead, we went to the Modiin show fact that Chicago won. So I was dismayed to see the e-mail with two other couples, Jason and Chani notice of his passing and resolved to be Schwartz (Chani was a guest columnist in menachem avel his family. this space a few months back) and Dr. Upon arrival at the shivah house, all I Herman and Mia Weiss (olim from West had to say was that I was “one of the Hempstead). The Weisses had a friend cities (and even in the major cities the eted Bazooka gum that he would bring in Bazooka boys” and even though only his from West Hempstead with them as well, supply is limited), the Comedy for Koby from Israel on his annual trips. wife remembered me, the whole family Natasha Swirlowitz. show was a welcome oasis for us. We In the ’70s and ’80s, Israeli Bazooka “knew” who I was, so to speak. They told Everyone had a blast. The comedians eagerly anticipate their next tour. was generally only available in Chicago me how their father used to drive them were hilarious (we especially liked Bob A couple of days later I went to be men- for Pesach. Having him import boxes and crazy to make sure they shipped him gum Zany—great comedy name—who was achem avel the family of Izzy Naiman, ob’m. boxes of the stuff for us was a big treat when supplies were running low and how much joy he took in being the candyman in shul and in sharing the lives of all the kids of the community. I was glad I went because it gave me a chance to share with them what an impact Izzy had on my life. You see, I too am the candyman in shul and have been for quite some time. While my father also was a candyman (albeit in a different shul) and I certainly was motivated by him as well, it is Izzy’s dignity and formal- ity that I pass along in my shul as well. Each child, boy or girl, greets me with a Shabbat Shalom before they get their lollipop (gum provides too many opportunities to ruin furniture); the boys all shake my hand. I see the joy and anticipation in their eyes when they come to greet me and I know that I learned a special lesson from the candyman. You see, I don’t think he really cared one way or the other about the greeting or the candy, I know that I sure don’t. What is important is the message the kids get. They are excited to come to shul. They know that shul is a special place. A place of dignity where they are expected to act like adults and are made to feel important. That is the message that I learned from Izzy, a’h, and that is the message I hope to pass on to the next generation. Yehi zichro baruch. NNN Command Sergeant Major Yehoshua (Shuki) Sofer was shot and killed in an ambush by terrorists this week just south of Chevron. While the world media ignores the fact that another Jew was killed by terrorists in an ambush attack and continues to focus instead on the deaths of several terrorists who were killed by people who only shot in self- defense, we need to honor his memory and continue to support the Israeli Defense Forces whose only goal is the safety and security of our nation and our land. Shuki Sofer, z’l, was supposed to be married this September. Yehi zichro baruch. O

Shmuel Katz works at Machon Puah, a non-profit fertility organization that provides, worldwide, free halachic and medical counseling, independent supervision of fertility treatments, and educational programming. Shmuel, his wife Goldie, and their six children made aliyah in July of 2006. Prior to his aliyah, Shmuel was the executive director of the Yeshiva of South Shore in Hewlett. You can contact him at [email protected]. 52 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Blow by Dr. Robert Riemer (LBS member). Shabbat Kiddush, and shalosh seudos. Books available for purchase in the syna- Healthy Us; Session I—Eating Right gogue office—proceeds benefit LBS. and Light. Wednesday, July 28, 7:30 p.m.: Annual Amit Yom Iyun. Wednesday, July featuring LBS member Deena Chanowitz, 14, 9:30 a.m. Day of Learning and Lunch. raw food and health chef. Shabbat Chazon. Shabbos, July 17. Film Festival. Motzaei Shabbos July 31, Scholar-in-residence Richard Grazi, MD (a 9:30 p.m. Film to be announced. Movie gala luncheon kiddush will follow Dr. and discussion led by Sandy Sutain. A New Mayor In Town Book Club. Shabbos, July 3, shalosh seu- Grazi’s address). Annual BBQ. Sunday, August 8, 5:00 Lawrence resident Martin Oliner was dos—book chat about Secrets Of A Jewish Fast Of Tishah B’av. Monday, July 19, p.m. Music, petting zoo, fun! elected mayor on Tuesday in an uncon- Mother by Jill Zarin, Lisa Wexler, and Gloria 9:10 p.m. Eichah and Ma’ariv. Tuesday, Healthy Us; Session II—Shaping Up At tested election for the office. Oliner Kamen. Reviewer: Rebbitzen Mimi July 20 continuous screening of film in Curves Of Long Beach. Monday, August 16, replaces Mayor Simon Felder who won a Mehlman. Books are available for loan in the ballroom. 8:00 p.m.: An introduction to the Curves hotly sought after seat on the village the synagogue office. Shabbos, July 10, Shabbat Nachamu—Carlebach exercise and diet program. Board of Trustees. Felder was elected by a shalosh seudos—meet the author and book Shabbat. July 23–24. Featuring Cantor Eric significant margin over Faye Lowinger review, and signing for Making The Wind Stern and choir. Friday night dinner, gala Continued on Page 54

Martin Oliner and David Stein. Incumbent Ed Klahr was also reelected to a seat on the board. Mayor-elect Oliner said, “All the candidates were good and dedicated to the well being of the village.” He added, “All would have served with integrity and dignity.” The new board assumes office on July 1. O

Croton Softball League By Evan Blachman Sunday Crew 6, 5TLobos 2. After missing a few weeks due to a leg injury, Mikey Weiss returned in dominating fashion, giving two runs (zero earned). Sunday Crew’s catcher “T” called the game behind the plate and got them out of trouble by snagging two foul tips. The big blasts of the day were from Dave Offman (3RBIs) and Gordon Rich giving Sunday Crew their second win of the season. Meridian/Triple Net 5, Hitmen 4. Another pitchers’ duel, this time between Avram Schreiber and Yossi Eisenberger. After putting up zeros back and forth Meridian/Triple Net scored two in the third. Hitmen cut the lead by one but that wasn’t enough as Meridian/Triple Net tagged another two the following inning. Hitmen battling back and was down 4-3 in the sixth but Yakov Bodner came up big with his glove (thank you Srulie) for the second time that night saving at least two runs. Fall leagues are starting in August and play through October. If you want to join, e- mail [email protected]. To learn more, visit www.crotonsoftball.com. O

Lido Beach Synagogue Summer Events Women’s Learning Group Siyum. Shabbos, June 19 shalosh seudos. Graduation Celebration and Gala Kiddush. Shabbos, June 26 following morning services. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 53 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 53 Film Festival. Motzaei Shabbos, August 21, 9:30 p.m. Film to be announced. Movie and discussion led by Sandy Sutain. Rosh Hashanah Seminar With Rabbi Mehlman. Wednesday, August 25, 8:00 p.m. Annual Tea At The Rabbi and Rebbetzin’s Home. Shabbos, August 28. The Lido Beach Synagogue is located at Lido Boulevard and Fairway Road. To learn more, call 516-889-9650. O

Why Should You Go To The Priority-1 Dinner? By Abe Davidson Next week as Priority-1 celebrates more than two decades of service to the community, they will be looking back at a series of accomplishments and educational innovations that have influenced thousands of yeshiva students, families, and teachers worldwide. The dinner will feature the high school graduation of their Torah Academy’s 11th graduating class. The accomplishments of these students are tremendous and their graduation is not the typical affair we normally associate with events entitled “dinner” or “graduation.” Last year it was an emotionally moving ceremony, high- lighted by speeches by the students themselves. They didn’t give the usual valedic- torian speech about their goals and thanks to their teachers. They spoke from the heart and expressed their profound appreciation, while giving a taste of the challenges they have endured and overcome, with the help of a dedicated staff. The Priority-1 graduation gives us a glimpse inside the world of their high school and the way it changes students’ lives. It is a touching celebration of accomplishment and an opportunity to witness firsthand the important work Priority-1 does in our community. Priority-1 is well-known for working with teens at-risk and hosting seminars for educators both here in the United States and in Israel. However, it is not as well- known that Priority-1 is also very active in the “mainstream” yeshiva world. Their post- high school beis midrash in Bayswater, Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh, has more than 80 students. They are proud to have five members of the kollel celebrating their semichah from Rav Moshe Heinemann, shlita, at this year’s dinner: Rabbis Eli Zoldan, Shmuel Schwartz, Avi Rosenholtz, Eliyahu Olshan, and Chaim Goldenberg. Priority-1 also launched several programs in the last few years: a yeshiva in Israel, a mesivta high school, and a prepara- tory beis midrash program in Bayswater. Mesivta Yam HaTorah in Bayswater is a mainstream yeshiva high school that maintains small classes and individual- ized quality attention for each student. “Our focus,” says Rabbi Shaya Cohen, “is personal attention, interactive learning, and creating an excitement in limud haTorah.” Rabbi Cohen imbues his rebbeim and teachers with the vast experience that he has acquired from his rebbeim and as a result of his decades of experience as a premier educator. Rabbi Cohen is particularly pleased with their new post high school yeshiva—Ohr Hatzafon—in Jerusalem. The program is similar to Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh, but affords the students the

Continued on Page 56 54 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 55 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS helped to stem the sometimes downward Continued from Page 54 tide that has wreaked havoc in some very young lives.” Asked if he feels that the so- opportunity to continue learning in the called “at-risk” experience has peaked, same system, in Israel. Rabbi Cohen Rabbi Cohen reflects and says, “The good explains that in Israel, as well as here in news is that many of those who go off are the U.S., attention is paid to each talmid’s coming back to some extent.” specific needs as they are imbued with a Rabbi Cohen is hopeful about the love of learning. future of Jewish education and excited These programs are in addition to the about the impact Priority-1 has on the teacher training seminars which Priority- local, national, and international levels. 1 has been conducting for the past three This year Priority-1 and its affiliate insti- years, both in their yeshiva and in schools tutions will be celebrating their stu- nationwide. “It’s absolutely clear to me dents’ successes on June 23 at their that rebbeim and teachers are the key to a annual dinner, at the Lawrence Country successful Jewish future,” says Rabbi Club. For more information or dinner Cohen. “We have an obligation to devel- reservations call 516-295-5700 or visit op qualified, trained teachers and leaders www.Priority-1.org. O Mesivta Ateres Yaakov softball champions. for the next generation and, Baruch Hashem, we’ve had remarkable success in MAY Champs! that direction.” Mesivta Ateres Yaakov defeated game MVP Zach Hatten yielding only Beth Sholom Cantorial Concert Rabbi Cohen adds that just as impor- HAFTR 1-0 in the Yeshiva League varsity three hits. Hatten showed his mettle as On June 8, nearly 1,000 people attended tant as teacher training are the parenting softball championship game this past he worked out of a first and third, one the eighth annual Congregation Beth workshops that Priority-1 organizes and is Friday. In a tension-filled game, MAY out jam in the bottom of the sixth Sholom cantorial concert in memory of involved in around the country. “As a scored the lone run in the second which was HAFTR’s best opportunity to Cantor Moshe Ehrlich, z’l. The concert fea- community we’ve been through some inning on Josh Burstyn’s sacrifice fly. In tie the game. MAY students and rabbeim tured Cantor Yitzchak Meir Helfgot (Park tough times and we are confident that general, the hits were hard to come by rushed the field to celebrate their first East Synagogue), regarded as the world’s our contribution to the process has as both pitchers were outstanding, with championship title. O greatest cantor, and in their debut on

56 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Chazan Yitzchak Meir Helfgot with the Jesse Aronson Beth Sholom Choir. BBY students and parents visited interactive booths in the “Island of Health.”

Long Island, the Muller brothers, Cantor Bankhalter together with his co-chairs The first graders created a medical cen- dren focused on the facts and figures dis- Zev Muller (West Side Institutional Howard Wolf and Bernard Fuchs. O ter equipped with a waiting room, a “pedi- played at each exhibit. All visitors to the Synagogue) and Cantor Moshe Muller atrician,” “dentist,” and “eye doctor,” teach- “Island of Health” received a water bottle (Heichal Meir Synagogue, Tel Aviv). BBY Memorial Day Health Fair ing us how important preventative medi- to provide adequate hydration, and tast- Once again, Beth Sholom’s own can- By Mrs. Chavie Bodenheim, cine is. The second graders demonstrated ed a delicious and tasty smoothie. All tor, Joel Kaplan, and the Jesse Aronson General Studies Principal the role that bones and muscles play in who attended found it to be both educa- Beth Sholom Choir performed and the In conjunction with the theme of maintaining a healthy posture. The third tional and entertaining. O renowned Cantor Daniel Gildar accom- health awareness that Bnos Bais Yaakov is graders displayed a food pyramid and panied the cantors. Cantor Eric Freeman promoting this year, the school’s general showed us how to create good choices in Rabbi Dovid Weinberger: conducted the Beth Sholom choir and studies department ran an extraordinary creating menus, while the fourth graders Committed To Ahavas Yisrael the choir accompanist was Mimi health fair called “Island of Health” on championed safety awareness for every By Liba Lieberman (Kaplan) Levison. Memorial Day. And what a fair it was! The season. We were led on a journey through Shaaray Tefila is proud to announce its Concert chair Alan Bankhalter was lunchroom was redesigned to simulate a the five senses by the fifth graders as we 100th Annual Chai Dinner which will cul- pleased to note, “Once again the concert tropical island complete with the appro- learned how the senses contribute to our minate in the writing of a sefer Torah in was sold out and the performances were priate greenery and exotic birds. Parents physical well-being. And the sixth graders everlasting memory of the Kedoshim of truly magnificent.” and children enjoyed the ambiance, as taught us all about pollution, recycling, the Shoah. This year the shul is proud to The performance and collation was well as the exhibits produced by grades 1 and global warming, all of which affect honor Rabbi Dovid and Rebbetzin Adina sponsored by Ben and Lynda Brafman in through 6. Each class displayed a beauti- the continuity of our planet. Weinberger as they are soon entering memory of his parents, Solomon and Rose ful banner and interactive activities at To maximize the amount of informa- their chai year as the revered mara d’asra Brafman, z’l, and Dr. Sherry and Joel their booth, which both imparted vital tion that the children learned at each and rebbetzin. Their tireless efforts on Wiener, in memory of her father, Colman health information as well as provided booth, they were provided with a set of Steuer, z’l. The concert was chaired by Alan fun and excitement. questions to answer. This kept the chil- Continued on Page 58

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 57 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 57 behalf of the kehillah and Klal Yisrael are world renowned. “It’s a special feeling, knowing that I am here at this turning point of the shul. Looking back, the bulk of the history of the shul precedes me, with many different rabbanim devoted to Torah, tefillah, and chesed for decades,” Rabbi Weinberger begins. “The shul has shifted in recent years, to accommodate demographic changes. I have seen my role in facilitating that change, to insure that no one group is alienated. The shul is still all encompass- ing, and services a broad array of people.” The rav continues. “I see this as a momentous opportunity for a recharging of energies within the shul, so that members involved in this historic moment will work to deepen and spread their commitment to harbatzas Torah, tzedekah, and tefillah. Everyone is infused with a vigor and vitality to make a quantum leap forward spiritually.” Rabbi Weinberger has been leading the congregation for 17 years; his arrival heralded a new era in Torah opportunities throughout the neighborhood. The regularly scheduled shiurim feature the rav’s outstanding breadth of knowledge and insight, but Rabbi Weinberger sees the shul’s uniqueness to be rooted in something else altogether. “What’s unique to this shul is the enormous variety of speakers we invite.” The list is impressive and spans the world of Yidden that includes IDF officers as well as chashuve rabbanim and roshei yeshiva from Bnei Brak and Yerushalayim. Rabbi Tzvi Flaum regularly gives shiurim, as does Rabbi Eliyahu Rominek. The list continues and includes such Torah luminaries as Rabbi Meir Goldvicht, rosh yeshiva of Yitzchak Elchonon in Bnei Brak; Rabbi Malkiel Kotler of Bais Medrash Gevoha in Lakewood; Harav Elya Mann, rosh yeshiva of Beis Hillel in Bnei Brak; Rabbi Hershel Schacter, rosh yeshiva and rosh kollel, Yeshivas Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchonon; and Rabbi Matisyahu Salomon, mash- giach, Bais Medrash Gevoha. “Someone once asked me if I feel threatened by all these people coming into the shul. I said no, it is the opposite; I like to bring in diversity. I try to invite a broad gamut of personalities,” Rabbi Weinberger notes. “The focus is all about Torah and people who represent Torah. I don’t care if they wear a black hat. I want to create a broad-minded approach in the community, to embrace all of Jewish life, to engender ahavas Yisrael and respect for Jews of all stripes, all colors. How does a community leader such as Rabbi Weinberger go about this sacred mission? “The major focus of my rab- banus here has been on teaching Torah, and informing people of what they need to know to live as Torah Jews and raise Jewish families. As part of that, I see to it that the shul sponsors as many shiurim as possible. Additionally, on every legal holiday, there is a shiur and continental breakfast for men and women. Most recently those shiurim have discussed practical issues in shidduchim, given by myself; checking vegetables, by Rabbi Yosef Eisen, director of the Vaad HaKashrus of the Five Towns; and a Torah response to volca- noes, floods, and tsunamis, by Rabbi Aryeh Zev Ginzberg, rav of Congregation Chofetz Chaim of Cedarhurst.” Scholars in 58 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES residence have included Lord Emmanuel then returns home to bake her loaf. Rabbi Jonathan Muscat, rav of Young davened in the yeshiva and afterwards Jacobovitz, zt’l, the former chief rabbi of How does a successful congregation Israel of Oceanside, and Rabbi Kesten pulled out a measuring stick and meas- England; Rabbi Zev Leff of Moshav celebrate its first hundred years? from Shaar Hashamayim in Oceanside. ured the windows for shades. (There were Mattisyahu; Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb, According to Rabbi Dovid Weinberger, Rabbi Yaakov Feitman delivered divrei no shades at the time.) R’ Koegel explained noted lecturer from Yeshiva Ohr the celebration itself becomes a stepping chizuk saying that a city with a yeshiva is that a beis medrash has to look nice and he Somayach; Rabbi Herschel Schacter, rosh stone into the future, infusing it with not comparable to a city without. He donated the shades. It was a big chizuk to yeshiva of Yitzchak Elchonon; and Rabbi possibilities that are both endless and shared a story: a wagon driver from Vilna the yeshiva, knowing that such a person Moshe Meiselman, rosh yeshiva of Toras inspiring. The historic significance of this was once driving a passenger. The passen- lives near the yeshiva and is machshiv Moshe in Yerushalayim. year’s annual dinner is matched by the ger expressed his surprise at how learned Torah. The yeshiva is very happy to have The shul also has a strong connection abundance of wide-ranging facets of the driver was. The driver explained that people like him as a super friend. O to Eretz Yisrael, and whenever possible, Torah and mitzvos that Congregation he was from Vilna, where a lot of talmidei offers chizuk and financial assistance. Shaaray Tefilla brings to the community, chachamim lived. The passenger asked, DRS Wildcat Champions Some of those projects have included giv- under the leadership of Rabbi “Are they your rabbeim?” The driver said, Proving once again that sports builds ing a bulletproof jeep to Chevron and Weinberger. May he continue to bring “No, but the people learning Torah rub character, DRS’s ninth and twelfth money for the resettlement of Gush Katif ahavas Torah to Klal Yisrael. O off.” The same holds true for a yeshiva in grade hockey team members faced off residents after the evacuation. a community. The koach of Torah rubs off against their tenth and eleventh grade Is there more to achieve for this vibrant Yeshiva Bais Shmuel Breakfast on everyone in the neighborhood and counterparts for Chai Lifeline. The congregation? Rabbi Weinberger answers Yeshiva Bais Shmuel of Oceanside held everyone gains from it. annual charity game raised $25,000, in the affirmative. “My vision is to con- its first breakfast this past Sunday, June 6. The honoree of the breakfast was R’ which will support year-round pro- stantly develop more programs and shi- It was a huge success. It was attended by Aryeh Leib (Lenny) Koegel. Rabbi Leiser, grams for seriously ill children and urim to enhance limud haTorah for men, the rosh yeshiva, said that one morning, women, and young adults,” the rav when the yeshiva first started, R’ Koegel Continued on Page 60 explains. Upon arriving to speak with the rav, this writer was greeted by a group of smiling women who were leaving the shul after attending Rabbi Weinberger’s weekly shiur on Pirkei Avos. The shul’s sisterhood arranges “Tea and Torah” Shabbos after- noons, inviting speakers into different members’ homes. Additionally, Rabbi Ari Bergman gives a shiur every Shabbos afternoon for men and women on Pirkei Avos as well as a hashkafah shiur Shabbos morning after the Nusach Sefard minyan. One very special activity among the women of the shul is the hafrashas challah event that takes place every erev Shabbos mevarchim. That Friday, women come to make challah in the shul after attending a shiur by the rav. Each woman Rabbi Leiser presenting award to Reb does hafrashas challah in the shul, and Lenny Koegel at Yeshiva Bais Shmuel.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 59 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS lings, and participation in Camp Menachem and Julia David and and eventually Menachem and Taina Continued from Page 59 Simcha and Camp Simcha Special, Chai Menachem and Taina Gross. were married. Menachem learned at the Lifeline’s overnight camps for children The Davids have been staunch mem- Talmud Torah of Seret-Viznitz in Haifa, their families. Among the activities in with life-threatening illnesses or seri- bers of the synagogue for several Yishuv Hachadash Yeshiva in Tel Aviv, and the Five Towns/Far Rockaway area that ous chronic conditions. O decades. Menachem is ever-present at upon his arrival to the United States went the daily minyanim, often gives the shiur to Telz in Cleveland where he learned between Mincha and Maariv, and has with R’ Chaim Stein, shlita, R’ Pesach and been actively participating in the daf Baruch Sorotzkin, a’h, and R’ Gifter, a’h. yomi for the past 18 years. Menachem Menachem ultimately left Telz and came graduated from Yeshiva Salanter (now back to NY to pursue a study in aerospace SAR), MTA, and City College, where he engineering in the evenings while attend- received a degree in accounting. He also ing yeshiva during the day. has an MBA in taxation, a CPA license, In the meantime Taina graduated high and currently has his own accounting school in Israel and went on to Bar Ilan practice, now located in Great Neck. The University. Menachem has worked for Davids have four children: Judah, who several major aerospace firms including The entire DRS junior varsity and varsity hockey teams; Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky, lives in Ramat Bet Shemesh with his Boeing and Grumman and is currently Menahel; Rabbi Elly Storch, assistant principal, Judaic Studies; Rabbi Eli Brazil, director wife Rivka, and family, Daniel, who lives employed as a composites technology of student activities; Larry Gross, head coach; Michael Davidman, assistant coach; and in Far Rockaway, Simcha, who lives in manager for the EDO Corporation. Levi Katlowitz, director of community development for Chai Lifeline. Woodmere with his wife Sorah and chil- Hashem has blessed Menachem and dren, and a daughter, Jordana (Weisz) Taina with three children, Dudi who lives who lives in Monsey with her husband, with his wife Esti and two children, Ilana will benefit from the students’ dona- YILB Annual Dinner, June 20 Eliezer, and children. and Liora-Bracha in Far Rockaway; tion are i-Shine, an afterschool program The Young Israel of Long Beach will Menachem and Taina Gross are both Racheli; and Shlomit who is married to for children living with illness or loss in be celebrating its 60th anniversary second generation Holocaust survivors Avrumi Friedman and lives in Baltimore. their communities, crisis intervention with a gala dinner. This year’s annual and after the war the remnants of both For the past several years Menachem services, counseling, Friends ‘N Fun event is being tendered in honor of families relocated to Akko, Israel. The two and Taina have been very involved with weekends for ill children and their sib- two distinguished couples— families were well known to each other the Young Israel. Menachem serves as gabbai rishon of the shul and executes his duties in a most exceptional and thor- ough manner. At the dinner, awards and acknowl- edgement will extended to Adin Diamond, son of Dr. David and Leya Diamond, for his outstanding volun- teerism and availability to assist the shul in any way possible. He will be presented with the amud habayis service award. Shoshana Gross, daughter of David and Penina Gross, will receive the youth leadership award, and Allie Schustek and Rina Schwartz will receive the Hebrew school excellence awards. The Young Israel of Long Beach was officially chartered in 1949 by a small group of summer residents who were anxious to ensure the presence of an Orthodox synagogue within the ‘City by the Sea’. Although the congregation had no permanent home and wan- dered through various locations, it ultimately purchased a house on Long Beach Blvd. which was converted to a sanctuary in the late 1950’s. The synagogue grew and ultimately played a pivotal role in the establishment of additional community organizations such as the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach and the Mesivta of Long Beach, two educational institutions which continue to thrive to this very day, and a community eiruv. For the past 21 years the Young Israel of Long Beach has been blessed with a dynamic spiritual leader, Rabbi Dr. Chaim Wakslak, who has heralded the congregation to build on their glorious past with new accomplishments. The congregation completed a new sanctuary, beis medrash, and social hall structure in 1994 which at the present time is straining to accommodate the increased membership and host of programs. There is constant activity with ongoing shiurim, lectures, holiday events, Talmud Torah classes, outreach initiatives, and youth programs which are recorded in a widely read newsletter published on a biweekly basis. The daf yomi participants look forward to celebrating their third siyum. The community boasts several kosher food establishments which are under the South Shore Vaad. All of these efforts 60 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES have made the community of Vocational Program at Yeshiva equipped for today’s economy. regular hours of operation. The offered for resale to ensure that Long Beach an attractive alter- Darchei Torah. Plum opened just over a donor is given a tax-deductible they meet Plum’s high standards native for families looking to The Rabenstein Center offers month ago and is under the receipt; the items are later care- relocate. an array of resources within the management of Mrs. Chava fully inspected before being Continued on Page 63 The dinner will take place on school setting for students with Lowy of Lawrence, a parent at Saturday evening, June 20, at learning disabilities and other Darchei Torah. She and her ded- the White Shul (Kenesseth challenges. The trailblazing icated staff go the extra mile to Israel) Far Rockaway, NY at 7:00 vocational program trains high assist each customer in finding p.m. Rabbi Jerry and Rebbetzin school students in marketable what they are looking for. Mrs. Chedva Kleinman and Haim trades such as carpentry, plumb- Lowy says that she agreed to and Erika Vinik serve as chair- ing, and electrical construction. lead the enterprise because “it’s persons of the event. A com- A new division, the Weiss a great idea, something the com- memorative journal will be Institute for Continuing munity can use.” published in honor of the Education, offers adults a All the items in the store are event. For further information chance to acquire new skills and donated; most donations are contact the synagogue office at reenter the workforce better brought to the store during its 516-431-2404. O

Plum: Not Your Average Thrift Shop By Benzion Kaplan A new store has opened in Cedarhurst, one unlike any other in the Five Towns. Plum, which bills itself as “an upscale resale boutique,” offers a diverse mix of new and slightly used home furnishings, women’s wear and accessories, fur coats, men’s suits and accessories, children’s clothing, and gift items— all in excellent condition and at bargain prices. What makes this venture unique, besides its exclusive focus on high-quality items, is the destination of all the store’s profits: local families. All proceeds from Plum’s sales support the Rabenstein Learning Center and Weiss

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 61 62 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Ohel Residents And Neighbors Heaven On Earth: Timeless Vessels, Wolowik. “This summer, through under- Continued from Page 61 Gather For A BBQ And A Fun Time Timely Lessons, June 30–July 14 standing the deeper mystical aspects of Over 100 members of the community Behind the note-filled cracks of the the Temple vessels and instruments, we of quality. Furniture donations are gathered on Tuesday evening, June 15 for Western Wall hide ancient secrets wait- will better connect to our own hearts and arranged by appointment. a delicious BBQ and a fun time with the ing to be revealed. Every beam, bracket, selves in a much deeper way.” “We sell designer clothing that run the Ohel members of the Avenue M residence and building both within and without Heaven on Earth utilizes the most gamut from Banana Republic to Prada and their families. The BBQ reflected the the Temple Mount hold spiritual signifi- profound spiritual teachings and the and everything in between,” Mrs. Lowy close bond between the neighbors in the cance to which few have been exposed. most advanced technology to bring stu- emphasizes, “as well as non-designer community and the Ohel residents and This summer, learn these secrets when dents through the Temple’s service. clothing. Some are brand-new, with the staff members. Many neighbors in the the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute Utilizing ancient mystical concepts and tags still on. We also have vintage wear, community have developed warm friend- course, Heaven on Earth, returns for a detailed PowerPoint presentations, stu- custom-made gowns that are unique and ships with the residents. Throughout the three-week kabbalistic “excavation” of the dents will gain a deeper understanding beautiful and aren’t being worn by ‘every- year, neighbors come every Motzaei ancient Temple instruments. of the spiritual functions of the Temple’s body else.’” She also makes a point of Shabbos for a Ma’ariv minyan in the “The Temple in ancient times served holy items, developing the means to highlighting Plum’s home furniture col- home. One of the neighbors gives a shiur not only as the heart of the Jewish home- channel the kabbalah of the vessels into lection, an impressive array of finely to the residents, learning parshah with land, but also as the heart of the Jewish their own lives. crafted pieces. them on a weekly basis. The Ohel resi- people,” said Rabbi Zalman Wolowik. Heaven on Earth will be offered local- Plum continually features new items; dence has certainly enriched the commu- “While it is not standing today, it still ly at Chabad of the Five Towns, 8:15–9:30 the store has an ever-changing inventory. nity and the community has played a wel- serves as the pulse of the collective p.m. on three consecutive Wednesday “We have a lot of happy customers, and coming and inviting role that has elevat- Jewish body and that which enlivens the evenings, starting on June 30 and running they keep coming back,” Chava declares. ed the lives of all. O entire Jewish nation,” added Rabbi through July 14. The fee is $36 for the She attributes Plum’s attraction to the series, which includes a full-color student fact that the store offers “an eclectic mix textbook. The Rohr Jewish Learning of merchandise that you can’t find any- Institute (JLI) is the adult education arm where else; it supports a local charity; and of Chabad-Lubavitch, and the world’s the customer gets great quality for a largest adult education network. For much reduced price.” reservations or for further information, Plum is a welcome development for please call 516-295-2478 or visit the Five Towns, an innovative enterprise www.chabad5towns.com. O that serves the dual purposes of offering consumers a good deal close to home and Graduates Of Masores Avos School local children who need extra help a Of Budapest To Pay Tribute To Reb brighter future. Duvid Moskovits, June 21 Plum is located at 85 Elderd Lane in By Ezra Friedlander Cedarhurst (across from Oh! Nuts). A very unique sheva brachos will Business hours are Sunday 12:00-5:00 take place b’ezras Hashem on Monday, p.m.; Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday June 21, at Kahal Yeshuos Yisroel of 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.; Wednesday 11:00 a.m.- Skulen in Williamsburg, in honor of 7:00 p.m.; and Friday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Mr. and Mrs. Duvid Moskovits, presi- For store information or to make a dona- tion, call 718-327-GIVE (4483). O Avenue M residents joined their Ohel neighbors. Continued on Page 64

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 63 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS ture which allowed for the continua- Continued from Page 63 tion of functioning shuls, shechitah, mikvah, and other basic religious dent of the Endowment for Democracy requirements. However, the key compo- in Eastern Europe and founder of nent of ensuring Jewish continuity was Mosdos Masores Avos School in lacking, due to the Communist control Budapest, Hungary. over education, that outlawed any type In addition to celebrating the marriage of education other than State con- of Mr. and Mrs. Duvid Moskovits’s son trolled. Upon the dissolution of Hershy to Zissy, the daughter of Mr. and Communism in Hungary in 1989, the Mrs. Mordechai Roth, this sheva brachos Skulener Rebbe, shlita, appealed to Reb will recognize the achievements and Duvid, a pillar in the Skulener kehillah, accomplishments of Mr. Moskovits by to lead the efforts of establishing a frum the graduates of the school that he found- educational network that will reignite ed 20 years ago in the immediate after- the mesorah of Hungarian Jewry and math of the collapse of the Communist provide a Torah education for the era in Eastern Europe. young generation. Budapest, in the post WWII era, Indeed, in 1990, the Masores Avos retained a Jewish religious infrastruc- School opened its door to the delight of

(L–R): Reb Duvid Moskovits; Liska Rebbe, shlita; and Skulener Rebbe, shlita.

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CERTIFIED AND ENDORSED BY THE KEHILAH KASHRUS

64 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES hundreds of Jewish parents who were home fresh vegetables for Shabbos. seeking to educate their children al pi Where did David catch this contagious masores avos, thus the name of the school enthusiasm for greenery? He says, “I was aptly given, Masores Avos. began gardening in diapers, as a young As the school flourished, hundreds of child growing up in the hills of Monsey, girls received a traditional Bais Yaakov NY. My wife and I promote and try to live education culminating in the marriage of our lives as whole and healthy as possi- its graduates to bnei Torah all around the ble—eating whole foods, etc. Really what world, with hundreds of families current- it comes down to is following the blue- ly raising their children al pi masores avos print for life that the Torah provides for residing in every large Jewish community us. We buy as much unprocessed food as across the globe. possible and grow as many fruits and veg- The sheva brachos is being organized gies as possible every year expanding our as a tribute to the revered founder of garden and activities for our children. This Masores Avos School, Reb Duvid year’s expansions include an apple tree, Moskovits, by its graduates in recognition peach tree, and an apple cider press that is of Mr. Moskovits’s leadership and guiding similar to what they used in the 1800’s.” force in the formation of their lives. Gan Chamesh and Gan Israel are The venue of the sheva berachos was thrilled that David has brought his selected to take place in the Skulener well planned curriculum, as well as his Bais Medresh of Williamsburg to demon- bag of tricks and fun antics, to help strate everlasting hakaras hatov to the We grew it all ourselves! round out their preschoolers’ educa- memory of the late Skulener Rebbe, zt’l, tion. If you would like to have David whose vision and far reaching concern plant an organic garden for your fami- to ensure a Jewish education for every duces a plant and more vegetables— borei pri ha’adamah.” The children from ly to enjoy, call 516-241-1177 or e-mail child was carried forth by his son, the keeping them in touch with Hashem’s Gan Chamesh and Gan Israel enjoyed [email protected]. O Skulener Rebbe, shlita and Mosdos miracles. Children learn berachos relating planting, watering, and cultivating the Chesed L’Avrohom. O to vegetables and what it means to say a seeds, watching them grow, and bringing Continued on Page 71

Growing The Gan With D. Mark Organic Gardens By Michele Justic A few years ago, David Mark, an ener- getic and fun-loving school psychologist, came up with a plan to let children connect with nature at a grassroots level (literally!). In an age when many parents reach for the wipes and the Purell as soon as they see dirt on their children’s hands, David decided to involve children in gardening. Bringing this idea to Chabad of the Five Towns’ Gan Chamesh Preschool and Camp Gan Israel seemed an obvious next step as David and his wife, Lisa, attend Chabad regularly and send their younger children, Orly, 4, and Tehila, 2, to the “gans” (baby Yehudah, 4 months, will certainly be a happy attendee as well). Gan Chamesh Director Susy Adler embraced the idea and introduced it at the Women’s Supperette two years ago to an enthusiastic crowd. With children spending more time indoors than at any other point in history, everyone involved in children’s development understands the crucial need to involve children in natural projects. The Gan Chamesh yeladim and yeladot loved getting their hands dirty, watching the sproutlets grow, and eating the results of their labor over the course of time. The program continued into the camp year where Gan Israel Director Hadassah Geisinsky incorporated this living, ongoing, science project into her curriculum as well. Anyone who spends time with children knows inherently that they love to make a mess. But this is more than that. David earned his BA from YU, an MS in school psychology from St. Johns, and an MSW from Wurzweiler. As a school psychologist for the NYC Department of Education and a teacher at DRS, David has expertise in creating curricula. He is known at DRS, at Gan Chamesh, and at Gan Israel for his engaging and exciting style. He’s not a “Please open your textbook to page 9…” kind of guy. He explains, “The main goal is for children to see that veggies don’t come from Brach’s or Gourmet Glatt; rather from the ground, to show them how a seed eventually pro- 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 65 Solution To Last Week’s 5TJT Puzzle: Prime Numbers

Puzzle appeared on page 35 of the June 11 issue.

66 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Your Ad Could Be Here. Call 516-569-0502

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 67 SERVICES SERVICES PROVIDED PROVIDED

Shomer Shabbos. Cheapest Rates ever Advance your guitar skills. from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem day or Experienced in all genres with a pas- night 180 Shekel four passengers + four sion for hard rock/and metal training. suitcases included. Call 050-6341-234 Advanced rhythm, soloing and jam ses- sions. Patient and attentive. Adaptable Speak to Shaul. lesson-plans to fit all playing levels. 45 Photography - Small Event Specialist min session $65. Bar/Bat Mitzva - Bris - Yeshiva/Shul Call Victor at 917-561-8486 Functions - Family Portraits New Table and Chair Gemach for Reasonable prices - Quality Work - Fast short-term simchas. 740 Mador Ct., Turnaround. Call Eli - 516-319-7709 Far Rockaway. Call 718-471-0368 The Computer Place Experienced and highly effective Computer Consultants, Technical Hebrew language tutor for all ages, and Support, Network, Internet Solutions. in particular for Regents Prep. Call 866-583-2443 Call 516-569-4030 or 917-817-7182

Menadvim— Furniture and Appliances. G'Mach Chasdei Yisroel — Lending Like new to Donate and Receive. Call money to people in Klei Kodesh & for 718-MEN-ADVIm (718-636-2384) We Klei Kodesh purposes. In the Far deliver. Rockaway-Five Towns area. Please call Nehora Tours Travel. Not a gimmick. 917-822-9910 for more info. Or email Best rates ever, best service JFK [email protected]. In Memory of NY/Newark NJ to Ben Gurion all credit R' Yisroel Ben Binyamin, a"h. cards accepted best deal all airlines. [email protected] Students Pre1A- 3rd grade Don’t wait! Prepare your child over the “Used or Abused” Before you buy a used summer for a strong start in school in car, come in for a free frame (structural) reading, Phonics, math. NYS State certified Board of Ed teacher will come to check. Precision Auto Body 691 Burnside you. 917-797-4539 Ave, Lawrence. 516-371-1137. Friends don’t let friends drive junk! Lawn sprinklers. Green Turf Irrigation. Sales and service for lawn sprinklers Study with Steve. One-on-one tutoring. and wells systems. 516-239-3434 SAT Math prep, regents, high school and elementary math, high school physics. Call 516-371-5522 Your Simchas Naava Share your simcha flowers! Be Real Estate, m’sameach other simchas! Donate your Service, or fresh flower arrangements! We will match your simcha date with Help Wanted Ad simchas following yours or deliver them to nursing home residents. Here Every To donate or obtain flower Thursday arrangements call 516-239-6066 In memory of a special friend, Naava Wassner Katlowitz

Coming to Israel? Or would you like to 100,000 readers help out your married children who are look forward to making Yom Tov in Israel? Someone what’s happening have a baby? Want to prepare Shabbos meals? Offering a variety of in the 5 Towns Heimish home-cooked catered dishes. by reading Full Menu filled with Delicious The Five Towns Gourmet Food. Excellent Prices, Delivery Available, References avail- Jewish Times. able upon request. Contact Tehila to have the menu Deadline is Monday e-mailed or faxed 845-364-7164, glattcooking.com at 5:00 p.m. 1 Week ...... $35 Help Kosiner Bikur Cholim maintain their apartments near Manhattan hos- 2 Weeks ....$60 pitals. Sponsor a Shabbos as a z’chus. Donations accepted. Tax deductible. 4 Weeks....$100 347-924-4205 Weekly Ads of up to Beautiful business-size cards with 25 words Kiruv websites, are available for free (to give to not-yet-Frum people). Call: 516-569-0502 Please text or call 718-501-2110 Fax: 516-977-0608 Small beginners Siddurim, and Shabbos guidebooks, both in Russian, are avail- Or E-mail ads to: able for you to distribute. Please call [email protected] Tashbar Publications at 718-438-9025 (leave message with address, Include payment info. IY"H we will mail them to you for free.) 68 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES SERVICES REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE PROVIDED FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE

Creative slideshow using your photos. Far Rockaway — 2 Family. All NU, For Sale Far Rockaway Oceanside — Brand new construction. Perfect entertainment for Bar/ Bat 3 over 1 Bdrm, 3 full baths. Great New to Market Brand new construction Beautiful CH col. Large 4 BR (1 level), Mitzvah, Sheva Brachos, or benefit. Location ...... $599K 2 family house 5 over 3. 5 full baths. 2.5 bths, granite EIK, FDR, den with fp, Very reasonable cost. Call Esther 718- Call 516-322-3555 Very spacious. Upper is a Duplex W/D full bsmt, in cul-de-sac, walk all, best price ...... $675K 327-2643, [email protected] hookup. Water views and beach rights. 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Far Rockaway — Quiet Cul-de-sac off Huge basement for Storage. Central air Reads Ln. 5 BR 3 Baths New Kitchen & HK Ilanas Agency — Provide you with and heat. Walk in closets. Great for Baths. Opt. apt rental. Reduced. Priced Cedarhurst — New construction. First screened, Experienced Nanny, family. Priced to sell. to sell ...... $799K 516-650-6005 show. Col. 9’ ceilings, 5BR, 2.5bths, full Housekeepers, Aids, Companion to the 2 Family house. 3 over 2. 3 full baths, basement, on quiet tree-lined street. Elderly. 21 years in the Industry. Upper is a Duplex Water views and West Hempstead — House for sale. Call for details ...... $799K Licensed and bonded. Maple Street. Prime Location!! 4BR, beach rights. Large basement for 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Call or 718-575-1700 718-575-0887 near YIWH! new Kosher Kitchen. LR, Storage. Perfect for young couple. DR, MBR, MIC. Asking ...... $545K Weissman Realty Group, LLC Cedarhurst: 1st Show Owner 516-505-0527 516-791-6100 1st FLR, FDR, 2BR. 2BTHS Terrace. HELP WANTED Views of Gdns, W/D, Lo maint, Grt. Far Rockaway — Open House Woodmere — Waterfront, 5-level split, loca’n, Walk all ...... $319K 1808 Everdell St. — [near Darchei 6BR, 5Bths, EIK, FDR, LR, 2 Dens, sep- 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 arate entrance, for M/D, w/permit, plus Torah] 12-1:30 p.m. Shevach High School seeking a General finished bsmt, all updated . . . . . $900’s New brick legal 2 family homes 6/6, fin- Lawrence/ Far Rockaway — 833 Science teacher for school year Dalia Fritz Realty 516-374-4411 ished basement with bth, garage, park- Central Ave. New to market. Spacious 1 2010/5771. Masters Degree required. Fax ing $380K-425K BR, light and bright, doorman/ elevator resume to 718-263-3759 or e-mail to: Spacious California ranch, huge finished Law: Hi Ranch. Must see, 4br, 2.5bth, building, walk all...... $210K [email protected] basement $900’s fam rm, CAC, 2 car garage, large Contemporary Col. with traditional feel 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 prop ...... $800sK F/T general help wanted for mini 4+BR den $810K Ced: Nu2Mkt, 2Fam, 3br/3br, 2fpl, House for sale by owner, on a very cute Lawrence — by appt. mart/butcher shop. Stock/cashier/deli deck, all new, grt loc, full bsmt 102 Harrison St. — 4BR split golf views block in Cedarhurst, 3 BR, 1 1/2 Bath, EIK, counter. Need valid driver’s license...... $795K $718K LR/DR and Finished Basement. Priced to Shomer Shabbos. Fax 516-280-4122 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 119 Hards Lane — short term rental sell. For more info please call 516-569-1685 $2400 (leave a message if no answer). 5 Towns Boys Elementary Yeshiva seek- Woodsburgh/Woodmere — Exquisite Co- Woodmere — by appt ing a Math 1 Regents teacher. Masters op. A room for every occasion. Huge 1103 Fulton St — Mint 8BR, new kosher Hewlett — Col. MIC, 4br, 2bth, 2fpl, full and license required. Great working DR, library, EIK, huge LR, 3 BR, 3 EIK, reduced $599K deck, wood flr, Lg. den. Walk to all. environment and competitive pay. bths, For the discerning buyer. Milky Forst Properties Inc...... $729K Please e-mail resume to Motivated. Esther Walfish 516-476-7764 516-239-0306 5 TOWN HOMES 516-322-3555 [email protected] Red. $400,000’s+ Hewlett — New to market. Beautiful 5 Kew Garden Hills — 3 bed 2.5 bath, lot Cedarhurst — Co-op. 2BR, 2bths, eleva- BR, 3 bths, split. All updated, in SD#14. size 55X100, 1 car garage attached, full tor building, underground parking, Separate entrance can be M/D with finished basement, EIK, Formal Din. recently updated, new granite kitchen, proper permits. Owner motivated, pres- ...... $879K very negotiable hardwood floors and A/C throughout, ent all offers...... $550K Please contact Jonathan 917-566-1225 loads of closets, close to all. 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 [email protected] Call for information. Open Houses — Far Rockaway: 2 Fam. All NU 917-747-4346 *539 Derby Ave. — Woodmere — 3 over 3 Br. 4Fbth, Dr, Full bsmt 11-1pm Totally renovated 3BR ranch, All features ...... $779K 5 Town Homes 516-569-5712 Call 516-263-6417 great yard, walk to all ...... $599K Cedarhurst: NU 2 Mkt. Lg LR, DR, 787 West Broadway — Woodmere — EIK, Den, 5BR, 3bth, Skilits, Cabana, Lawrence — Ours Alone!! 12-2PM Brick 4BR s/h colonial — Lg prop, IGPool, Walk to all . . . $659K Brick, C/H COL, Stately brick, w/old Finished basement, great yard. Totally world charm, Hi ceilings, 6Br, 4.5 bths, updated. Walk to Aish ...... $799K Far Rockaway— 2 houses. Brand new Kosher EIK, Lg. FDR, Library, Fin. 3 Ike Street — Woodmere — REAL ESTATE construction. Bsmt., Lg Prop., walk all. By appointment. Mint 5BR, Expanded Detached 1 family house, 3BR, 2.5bths, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Ranch on huge double buildable lot. FOR SALE beautiful kosher kitchen, private drive- ...... $899K West Hempstead — Double expanded way, full basement, porch +2 balconies, 637 Branch Blvd — Cedarhurst — wide line tape/ completely updated, convenient location. Priced to sell. By appointment. Huge high ranch. Far Rockaway — House for Sale by 3BR, 2bths, EIK w/ cathedral ceiling, $479K Reduced ...... $499K Owner. Newly constructed 5BR/ 3Bth LR/DR, finished bsmt, C/AC, new roof, 2 family 3/3, 4.5bths, beautiful kosher 372 Argyle Road — Cedahurst — Townhouse w/ 2-car-garage. Close to all dead end street, walk to all. kitchens, parking, full basement. Only By appointment. Totally renovated and shuls. Rent $2,950. 212-500-0042 Asking ...... $445K Call 516-238-7317 $599K Reduced to ...... $539K Cedarhurst — 2 BR, 2bth. Ground floor North Woodmere — By App’t. Far Rockaway— New to Market. Bayswater — AAA location. By owner. Apt for rent. Call for details. Decorator’s dream. Beautiful bi-level, Spacious Newly Constructed Town 4BR, 3bth, detached, large prop. brand Classic New construction — prices large granite kosher EIK, FDR, large House, 3 Floors, master bedroom suite new EIK, finished basement, tons of storage, 8 years old. 718-337-2991 from ...... $995K LR, den, 4BR, waterview, all systems, w/ Jacuzzi tub. 5BR 3.5bath, Stainless Lawrence/Cedarhurst — New walk all shuls. Owner motivated. Steel kosher kitchen, Den, lots of closets Construction. Grand entry, 6BR, CH Present all offers. Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth and storage, high ceilings and skylights. colonial. w/bsmt. Call for details. 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K Private beach rights. $650K Call 516-322-3555 ...... $1.450M Far Rockaway/ Lawrence—833 Central Cedarhust — New house Young contem- Cedarhurst — New Construction. 5BR 1BR co-op, huge LR/DR, updated Lawrence — Wonderful c/h col. house colonial w/bsmt on 175’ deep property. porary col. high ceilings, large win- kitchen, 24-hour doorman, Shabbos ele- on the nicest cul-de-sac there is. Brand ...... $995K dows, bright and light, 4 BR (1 level) vator, low maintenance. new kitchen, finished basement. Woodmere — 2 New Constructions. LR, FDR, large EIK, den, full finished Lawrence— 1 Roslyn Place— 1 BR apt, Asking ...... $875K Classic 5BR CH colonial. Large basement, large fenced yard. Walk all. 1 bth, LR/DR with terrace overlooking Call 516-902-0936 property. Walk to YI of Woodmere...... $3,000 Central Ave. Low maintenance, possibil- Hewlett Neck — Half acre Five Towns Realty 516-569-5710 Woodmere/Cedarhurst Oppty! ity of two parking spots. Asking price New construction spectacular 6BR, 12,000 sq. ft. approx. 90’x150’, Colonial, 2-story, entry foyer, 9’ ceilings. Cedarhurst — Motivated seller. Tudor $199K Please call Ari 516-521-8870 17 rooms, full bsmt. with hi ceilings, ...... $1.75M oversized rooms, great street, walk to Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 clean 2 car garage plus storage, 6 space South Shore Estates 516-569-4980 all ready to deal ...... $455K parking, 2 family, professional use, Woodmere — “Deal down” Incredible Woodmere, North — Updated, spacious, accountant, Esq., medical and/or educa- C.H. Col. Totally Redone, 6 BR, 3 bths, bright, airy 4 BR, EIK, 2.5 bths, high tional and religious uses. Grand colonial Classified Ads are Designer Magazine kitchen, walk to all, ceiling, basement, 2-car garage, den, with charm and great possibilities. 1-of-a-Kind ...... $1.1M deck, low taxes Hurry Mid $500’s Available at once . . . $875K Negotiable Continued on the Next Page. Levine Realty Group, LTD 516-295-4700 Renah Century21Yve.com, 516-295-2227 Owner 516-322-3555 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 69 CLASSIFIED ADS Continued from Page 69 FOR RENT FOR RENT FOR RENT

COMMERCIAL REAL Nicest house rental in Far Rockaway. Far Rockaway — Beautiful 6.5 rooms, 3 Lawrence — 18 Berkley Place ESTATE FOR SALE Beautiful, Ready to move in, 5 BR house BR, 2 baths, new kitchen, separate Center hall col., 4 BR, 3 bths, stunning on excellent block in Far Rockaway. cul-de-sac, best location . . $4K monthly entrance, own thermostat. Best block in Brand new kitchen and very spacious Call Irene 516-652-7099 Cedarhurst — Central Ave. corner 1 backyard. Call owner 917-617-0768 Far Rockaway. 718-868-1153 story retail building for sale. 1100 sq. ft. Valley Stream — All new beautiful large Great location...... $469K Lawrence — Coop Rental. 1BR. 1NU Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, 2 BR, EIK – FDR, upper of 2 family Call 917-704-2950 Bth, LR, DR, EIK...... $1,300 FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. house, quiet residential street, includes 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 heat and parking...... $1,700 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 COMMERCIAL REAL 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Far Rockaway — Large One Bedroom ESTATE FOR RENT Cedarhurst — All updated charming Apartment for rent. Beautiful elevator Valley Stream — First show! Lovely 4 Col. New granite EIK, FDR, LR with bldg. Nice tenancy. Great location at BR, 2 bths, in SD#14, LR, DR, den, on fireplace, 4+ BR, CAC, in the heart of Rockville Centre — 3,500 sq. ft., fully Neilson and Cornaga, near Shor Yoshuv, large property, walk all, ...... $2,350 Cedarhurst. Walk all. wired for Web, partitioned, will divide. transportation, and shopping. 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 Call 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 Call 516-322-3555 Asking $1,100. Call 718-692-2525 ext. 180 July in Jerusalem — On Palmach near Far Rockaway — 2 Huge Office Spaces. Far Rockaway rentals: Flatbush AveN/E4 — Newly renovated, Jerusalem Theater. Close to many 6,000 and 2,500 Sq Ft. 2nd Floor. Near 1, 2, and 3 BR apartments. some bal- 4BR, 1Bath, LR, DR, EIK, W/D, in pvt shuls, Batei Medrash, parks. 3BR, Subway & LIRR. Build to Suit. Can be conies. New kitchens, lots of closets, 24 house. Near all. Call 917-929-3118 2bths, glatt kitchen, patio, A/C, DSL, divided. Owner 917-359-9776 w/d. 011-972-77-500-5430, hr doorman, security cameras. Close to Lawrence/Far Rockaway — 833 Central [email protected] White Shul, Shor Yoshuv and train. Cedarhurst — Office rental: Executive Call Sherri 516-297-7995 2 Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., Ave. Jr 4 (2 BR) Spacious doorman/ ele- Cedarhurst — All new, bright 3 BR, 1.5 CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 vator building, walk all ...... $1,500 Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 bths, ground floor apt in 2-family house, 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Glendale/Ridgewood, NY — 5,500 sq. LR, FDR, EIK/ w new appliances, new Special Prices At Sand Castle For ft. available for immediate. High ceil- carpet, w/d included, yard and parking. North Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch in 5TJT Readers — Studios for $895. ings $5.50/sq. ft. Call 917-841-1580 Walk all ...... $2,150 MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. Includes utilities. No brokers’ fee! HW 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 floors, big windows, fully-equipped FOR RENT Cedarhurst — Garden apt. Nu 2 Mkt. kitchens, cable and internet connectivi- Far Rockaway — Lg. Hse Rental: 4br, 2BR. 2Bth, Mint, 1st Flr, heat & prk ty, closets. Gym, gourmet market, phar- 2bth, bsmt., hi-ceilings, NU bths, W\D. incld ...... $2,300 macy, Rabbi Korn's shul, and laundry Call 516-322-3555 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 facilities in BLDG. 711 Seagirt Ave. on Far Rockaway — House for Rent by the beach - convenient to subway, LIRR, Owner. Newly constructed 5BR/ 3Bth Inwood — Beautiful 1BR first floor apt. Valley Stream — Ranch house. 3BR, Townhouse w/ 2-car-garage. Close to all Full bth, EIK, LR/DR, private entrance. new EIK, quiet street, SD24, walk all. and Q113 bus. www.sandcastleny.com. shuls. Sale $639K. 212-500-0042 Call 718-954-0413 $2250 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Weissman Realty Group, LLC 718-471-2593

70 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

BUSINESS AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS OPPORTUNITY Continued from Page 65 New Roc Is The New Wave By Larry Gordon Become an Acai Berry Juice distribu- It’s cutting-edge catering just the way tor and earn commission immediately. you want it, and now it’s here in the Five Online trainer, work from home, no Towns/New York City area. It’s New Roc investment, e-mail [email protected] Glatt Caterers, a division of the first-class glatt kosher food emporium in New CARS FOR SALE Rochelle, founded and run by its owner, Shloimy Flaum of Cedarhurst. I met Shlomie over Pesach when I spent the chag at the Rye Town Hilton 2009 Pontiac G6 — V6 engine, 7K miles, in nearby Rye Brook, New York. We blue, black cloth interior, CD player, Satellite radio capable, power windows wanted to pick up a few things for the and door locks $13K. Call Rob 516-317-4217 kids and grandkids on erev Pesach and heard about this very classy supermar- ket and took a ride over. What a surprise MISCELLANEOUS and even a pleasure it was to see a friendly and familiar face greet us as we entered and help us out with what we carefully trained expert staff. needed. I asked Shlomie to take me For more information on New Roc The Ocean Corp. 10840 Rockley Road, around the store, and each section and Glatt Caterers, visit their website at Houston, Texas 77099. Train for a New display case was more impressive than www.newrocglatt.com or call Shlomie Career. *Underwater Welder. the previous one. Flaum at 914-636-2600. O Commercial Diver. *NDT/Weld Then, a few weeks ago, Shlomie called Inspector. Job Placement Assistance. to say he had received a number of Dime Savings Bank Financial Aid available for those who requests for parties and events in the Five Dime Savings Bank is now officially qualify. 1-800-321-0298 Towns and had adequately expanded his open for business with its new branch Deadline for staff to make it possible. Shlomie Flaum opening in Cedarhurst, right in the mid- understands Five Towns class and the dle of the shopping district at 432 Central Classified Advertising panache that is featured at Five Towns Avenue. Dime is perfect for Cedarhurst— events. “I’ve worked in the catering busi- it’s a real community bank that has been in next week’s issue is ness in the community for many years, serving residents and businesses for over and I am very familiar with what our cus- 140 years. Michael Devine, president and chief Monday, June 21 tomers are looking for at their special Joined by Dime corporate executives operating officer of Dime Savings Bank, at 5:00 P.M. events,” Shlomie said. Today each party, and community leaders, a mezuzah was and Rabbi Simcha Lefkowitz. whether it’s a bar mitzvah, Shabbos sheva affixed to the main door of its Cedarhurst Call 516-569-0502 brachos, or any other affair, features the branch by the well known and respected personal involvement of Shlomie and his Rabbi Simcha Lefkowitz. O Continued on Page 76

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 71 Young Israel of Far Rockaway 45th Anniversary Dinner Photos By Ivan H. Norman

Mrs. Fran Goldstein, Yaakov and Sharon Freud, (L-R): R' Avrohom Fruchthandler, Aishes Chayil Awardee. Young Leadership Awardees. president, Yeshiva Rabbi Chaim (L-R): Nochum Wolf, YIFR vice Berlin, and Michael Steinberg, president, and Rabbi Shaul Chill. YIFR president.

Dr. Abraham and Annette Tannenbaum, Guests of Honor, with children and grandchildren. Rabbi Chill dancing with YIFR congregants.

72 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 73 Community Unites In Support Of Emmanuel

BY SHMULIK GROSSMAN Emmanuel had separated Sephardi girls Ministry then instructed the local ble for enforcing the closure order. from 74 Ashkenazi girls, and the High authority to submit claims against the Jerusalem City Councilman Rabbi Some 10,000 police officers are prepar- Court ruled that the Sephardi girls parents with the police, indicating that Yosef Deitsch said that Sephardic girls ing to deploy Thursday throughout Israel should be incorporated in an equal fash- they had broken the mandatory educa- had been allowed to attend the school at beginning in the early morning hours in the heart of the protest. “The court did preparation for what chareidim have not discuss the core of the issue, but dubbed “the mother of all protests.” rather the racial wave and in this case it is The protestors plan to take to the not racial, it is religious. It is a fact that streets to demonstrate against Tuesday’s The split Jewish Orthodox community people named Elmaliach, Abutbul, and High Court of Justice decision to detain Biton study at the school, so how can it parents who refuse to withdraw what the has united, and this was our reward be racist?” he asked. court deemed a discriminatory policy from an Emmanuel school which their Protest Preparations girls attend. from what the court has caused. Police believe the protests will begin in Jerusalem in the morning and then move The Issue At Hand on to cities such as Bnei Brak during the Ministry of Education Director- day. Groups in Beit Shemesh have also General Shimshon Shoshani had issued ion and without discrimination. tion law. However, the local authority announced their intention to protest. a closure order against a temporary insti- However, parents of the Ashkenazi girls chose to defend the parents and left the A central demonstration is scheduled tution used as a school for Ashkenazi opposed the court’s decision. The par- Ministry to submit the claim itself. It for Yirmiyahu Street in Jerusalem, at 1:30 girls who have refused to study together ents announced they would refuse to was also discovered that the 74 p.m., and police expect around 30,000 with Sephardi girls. The Beit Yaacov allow their daughters to continue to Ashkenazi girls were studying in a tem- people to attend. Dozens of officers will school in the West Bank settlement of study at the school. The Education porary school. The police are responsi- deploy at roads leading to the capital and within it to direct traffic. Many protestors will arrive by bus, and the detained parents will also be trans- ported to holding cells in Jerusalem by bus. At around 3:00 p.m. protestors are expected to gather in the area of the holding cells for a giant rally, and at 5:00 p.m. the parents will enclose themselves within the cells. After this the couples will be separated and the men will be taken to Maasiyahu Prison while the women head off to Neve Tirza Prison. Dozens of officers will secure their passage. Police Commissioner Dudi Cohen held a meeting on Wednesday evening in which preparations for the next day were discussed. Police plan on deploy- ing many special units, such as officers on horseback and special forces equipped with riot dispersal equip- ment, in case riots break out. Police also said they would supervise vehicles belonging to rabbis. Chareidim are also preparing for the big day, with parents gathering at an Emmanuel school for a final consultation late Wednesday evening. In addition, efforts have been made to secure foster homes for children of jail-bound parents for the two weeks in which they will remain in prison. “Such cooperation doesn’t happen often. The split Jewish Orthodox community has united, and this was our reward from what the court has caused,” Rabbi Deitsch said. A representative of the parents, Yitzhak Weinberg, told Ynet, “We have no idea what will be. We are cautiously opti- mistic, but with cautionary pessimism. There are layers saying that we are heading for arrest, and there are those who are saying that the High Court will not intervene in the education of our children. We may be sent to prison. This is a reasonable possibility from my perspective.” Over the past weeks, bids were made to reach a compromise. Many contributed to this effort to reach a suitable conclusion. Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar intervened a week ago at the behest of Emmanuel Chief Rabbi Gershi Ezra. (Ynetnews.com) O

Ronen Medzini, Yaheli Moran Zelikovich, and Aviad Glickman contributed to this report. 74 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Beautiful Turnout For Madraigos Photos By Ira Thomas Creations A Five Towns Simcha Photos By Suri Adams Photography

Faiga Rochel Marcovich celebrated her bat mitzvah on Sunday, May 30 at Ateres Nechama Liba Hall with a Mexican theme. The catering was done by Carlos & Gabby's. The music and entertainment were provided by Danielle Jacobs. Below, she is standing with her grandparents, Leah and Isser Tisser.

Supporters came out in full force to participate in the annual breakfast for Madraigos, an organization in the Five Towns that provides crisis intervention and case management for at-risk teens and young adults. The breakfast was held on Sunday, June 13 at the new home of Madraigos. For more information regarding the Madraigos programs and to inquire about dedication opportunities for the new building, please contact the Madraigos office at 516-371-3250 or [email protected].

Founded in 2003 by Rabbi Dov Silver, Madraigos provides a broad array of programs and services for Jewish teens and young adults who engage in self-destructive behavior. Due to the unparalleled success that Madraigos has had in our community, other communities have asked Rabbi Silver to set up satellite programs to help their teens as well. Chicago has already launched a Madraigos Midwest, currently servicing over 120 teens. White Shul Barbecue Photo By Captured Images

Congregation Kneseth Israel–The White Shul held its annual barbecue dinner at the shul last week, paying tribute to two key active officers, Nesanel Feller (president) and Will Pearlman (man of the year).

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 75 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 71 Friendship Gathering For Frum Women With Cancer, July 6 Bikur Cholim of Boro Park, in partnership with Sharsheret and CancerCare, hosts monthly friendship gatherings for frum women who are in treatment for or have been in treatment for cancer. Their next confidential meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 6, 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., in Bikur Cholim of Boro Park, at 5216 11th Avenue, and will be free of charge. Come hear interesting guest speakers and have opportunities to meet others who understand, while enjoying a light, healthy snack. For more information, please leave a message for Yafa, at 718- 438-2020, ext. 7451, and tell her the most private way to reach you. This project is sponsored by the Caring Commission of the UJA Federation of Greater NY. O

Assemblywoman Pheffer Champions Re-Opening Of State Parks Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) is pleased to announce that the 58 New York State parks and historic sites on the budget chopping block will reopen after a three-way agreement was reached between the Assembly, the Senate, and Governor David A. Paterson. The original plan had included the closure of our local park, Bayswater Point State Park. Bayswater Park compromises 12 acres at the tip of Mott Avenue and juts out into the Mott Basin on the eastern shore of Jamaica Bay. The park is an ideal habitat for migrat- ing and nesting birds and is a favorite spot for fishing, nature study, and enjoying the beautiful sunsets over New York City. “Know that our economy has forced many New Yorkers to look toward ‘staycations’ as an option for summer enjoyment. Our state parks play a large role in provid- ing enjoyment and recreational opportunities for many. That is why I, along with my colleagues, worked diligently to ensure that our great state parks remain open for all to enjoy,” said Pheffer. The state park system includes 178 parks and 35 historic sites and is the source of 20,000 jobs throughout the state. The parks produce about $1.9 billion in annual sales for private businesses in areas near the parks, as well as $440 million in employment income. Considering the benefits of the parks versus the expenses incurred by the state in operating them, the parks generate $5 for every $1 spent. “The residents of our community are fortunate to not only have our wonderful public beach- es to enjoy, but they can now, once again, take pleasure in exploring the beautiful Bayswater Point State Park,” said Pheffer. O 76 June 18, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES A Five Towns Simcha Photos By Naomi Cohen of Glamorous Pics

Yakov Puderbeutel, son of Tzipi and Chaim Puderbeutel of Cedarhurst, celebrated his Bar Mitzvah on May 31 at Ateres Nechama Liba Simcha Hall. Yakov is a student at Yeshiva Darchei Torah. Catering for the affair was by Carlos & Gabby's. Music was played by Yitzy Bald and the entertainment was provided by The Magic Masters.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES June 18, 2010 77 A Five Towns Simcha Photos By Ira Thomas Creations

Yonah Fein, son of Toby and Avrami Fein of Woodmere, married Rachel Silverman, daughter of Jerry and Carol Silverman of Houston, at the Manhattan Beach Jewish Center on June 15. Music was by the Shloime Dachs Orchestra. The scrumptious catering was prepared by New Star Caterers. All arrangements were handled by Suri Brody of Woodmere.

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