BH Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation Newsletter
Menachem-Av/Elul 5775 - August, 2015
Holy Temple & Jerusalem by Artist Baruch Nachshon
MAIN CONTENT PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
We are now very close to PAGE 2 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE our AGM and I hope that you have already renewed PAGE 3 SYNAGOGUE NOTICES your membership for this PAGE 3 GUIDE FOR JEWISH EDUCATION coming year, if not, please call our office ASAP. PAGE 4 A WORD FROM OUR RABBI Prior to our AGM, it would PAGE 5 WOMEN’S BREAKFAST EVENT be great if some of you PAGE 6 MOVIE NIGHT AT OUR HALL decide to join our board of management this year. We still have no nominations for PAGE 7 ISRAEL - THE IRAN DEAL Treasurer and Vice-President so please put your hand up PAGE 8 ASK THE RABBI for the job.
PAGE 9 JONATHAN POLLARD This year again I will make myself available for the position of President, this is of course if there is nobody PAGE 9 ARTS & CULTURE - JERRY LEWIS else to take this position. It has been a privilege for me PAGE 10 INTERNET FOR SENIORS to serve our Congregation during all these years.
PAGE 11 SPIRITUALITY - MONEY TALKS This year will be a very eventful year for us all. Starting with, I believe the most exciting of all, our Shule hosting PAGE 12 FAMILY - KIDS TO LOVE OTHERS the 'Anne Frank Exhibition'. The exhibition will be on PAGE 13 PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT display at our Katranski Hall for 5 weeks, from the end of October to the 1st of December. You will soon receive a PAGE 14 HEROES IN OUR MIDST personal invitation as a member of the Congregation for the official opening event of the exhibition. PAGE 16 ANNE FRANK EXHIBITION
PAGE 18 CHARLIE CHAPLIN JEWISH IDENTITY Our evening with our dear friend Ari Sacher who related to us about the 'Iron Dome' Missile defence system was PAGE 19 OMAR SHARIF & THE JEWS a great success, we thank Ari for his inspiring PAGE 20 HEALTH - SLEEP DISORDER presentation.
PAGE 22 MI-SHEBERECH PRAYER LIST We also held a fun and educational Camp Gan Izzy for our communal children over the school holiday. We PAGE 23 NEW LECTURE SERIES thank our youth leaders Shterna Gurevitch and Chana PAGE 24 LAUGHTER - THE BEST MEDICINE Ben-Amu for their dedication and giving the children a memorable experience. PAGE 25 CHEF’S CORNER The upcoming function for the ladies in our community PAGE 26 BOOK REVIEW is our "Annual Mikveh Breakfast" to be held on Sunday PAGE 27 ADVERTISEMENTS the 9th of August at 8:00am. Please check the flyer on page 5 for more information. PAGE 28 SUNSHINE CLUB FOR SENIORS On Sunday the 16th August we are holding our AGM PAGE 29 PHOTO PAGES followed by a very inspiring movie ‘Above and Beyond PAGE 31 SHULE ANNOUNCEMENTS un Boy Run’ and a light supper. This will follow the New Year Chagim period with Rosh-Hashanah, Yom-Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah. As you can see, Baruch Hashem, we have plenty of Simchas ahead.
The articles printed in this magazine are not necessarily the views or policies of the GCHC David Rebibou pyright © 2015 President GCHC
The Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation Newsletter 2 Menachem–Av 5775 - August 2015 Edition
SYNAGOGUE NOTICES THE GUIDE FOR JEWISH EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES
OFFICE HOURS Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 8:30am – 1:00pm Monday - weekly at 7:30pm - Assorted Topics and Kabbalah @ the Shule’s Katranski Hall SHOP HOURS Shop is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday: Thursday Talmud class - 7:00pm at the Rabbi’s 9:30am – 1:00pm home.
SERVICE TIMES Shabbat afternoon Topical insights: @ 6:00pm
WEEKDAYS Personalised learning with the Rabbi - Please tel. Shacharit: Monday & Thursday - 6:30am Rabbi Gurevitch 0419 392 818 Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday - 6:55am
Women Learning Classes with Rebbetzin Dina SHABBAT Gurevitch- Please tel. 0405 100 149 Kabbalat Shabbat: Friday at 5:15pm
Shacharit: 9:00am. Shiur class at 8:40am Women Rosh Chodesh Group - takes place every Mincha and Ma’ariv: 5:15pm Jewish new month where women of all SUNDAY AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS backgrounds and affiliation come together to Shacharit: 8:00am learn, schmooze and enjoy a scrumptious supper Mincha and Ma’ariv: 5:15pm and interesting speaker. To join us please contact our office on 5570 1851 or Rebbetzin Dina Gurevitch on 0405 100 149
THE GOLD COAST HEBREW CONGREGATION After School Cheder - Every Sunday during school term from 9:30am - 11:30am. For ages ADDRESS 5-13 34 Hamilton Ave, Surfers Paradise P.O. Box 133. Surfers Paradise Q 4217 At Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation. 35 Markwell Ave entrance, Surfers Paradise OFFICE Administrator - Belinda Werb During your school hours - We come to you Phone: 5570 1851 Fax 5538 6712 Email: [email protected] Surfers Paradise State School - Every Wednesday @ 11:50am RABBI NIR GUREVITCH Mobile: 0419 392 818 Benowa State School - Every Friday @ 10:00am Email: [email protected] Bellevue Park State School - Every Thursday @ PRESIDENT 1:55pm David Rebibou Email: [email protected] Phone: 0449 988 398
WEBSITE: http://www.goldcoasthc.org.au
3 Precision Measurements
For a builder, the tape measure is critical; so too when we are building G-dliness and goodness into the world, we must use the tape measure of the soul.
What does this mean? It means we have to be careful with our abilities and talents, to be conscientious with our opportunities, not to waste the smallest particular of who we are and what we can do. We must use what G-d has given us in the fullest measure, to the last iota, and for the G-d given purpose of serving the Creator.
When fulfilling a mitzva (commandment), it must be done down to the last detail, going the extra step ( known as hiddur, or beautifying, the mitzva).
The same precise measurements apply to our use of time - whatever we're doing, we can use every moment to serve G-d. We can conduct our business in an ethical manner, we can converse without speaking badly of another person, we can eat and drink kosher food after Have you ever tried to build a bookcase? What about having recited a blessing over the food. We can relax and put a bike together? Maybe you're trying to replace sleep knowing that after resting we will be reinvigorated some widget in an appliance. Hang wallpaper or retile a to serve G-d in a complete and precise manner. room. Maybe you're more ambitious, and you're putting an addition on your house. If we've measured out our activities for twenty three hours and fifty-nine minutes - allotting exactly the right Whatever you're building or repairing, you know that to portion of it to prayer, to study, to mitzvos, to work, to build or construct properly, you need to measure eating, sleeping and relaxing, as necessary - we still can't precisely. Very precisely. If the measurements are off allow ourselves to waste that last minute. even a fraction of an inch, a smidgen of a millimeter, the whole project could fall apart. This applies not only to ourselves, but to our part of the world, our sphere of influence and contact with others, Edges have to match; nuts-washers-screws have to be and our activity with and use of the material of the earth. the same size and the right size. A misaligned window, even slightly, and all sorts of leaks can start. When each of us uses our G-d-given abilities precisely and accu-rately, to elevate ourselves and our surroundings, so In a sense, every Jew is a master builder, and a precision that no speck or scrap is left over, superfluous, extra or engineer. For we are commanded "build Me a sanctuary, unused, then we, and others, and the world itself fulfill that I may dwell among them." Just as the sanctuary the mission and task of creation, to transform the world made of stone and other material had to be built to the into a dwelling place - a properly and precisely built exact measurements and specific detail, so too each of dwelling place - for G-dliness. us must build our "mini-Sanctuary" - our lives and our section of the world according to the specifications in our "instruction manual," the Torah.
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Sunday night at the movies
Screening one of the most uplifting movies of hope and spirit. Would you risk everything - your future, your citizenship, even your life - to help a brother in need?
In 1948, just three years after the liberation of Nazi death camps, a group of Jewish American pilots answered a call for help. In secret and at great personal risk, they smuggled planes out of the U.S., trained behind the Iron Curtain in Czechoslovakia and flew for Israel in its War of Independence. As members of Machal – “volunteers from abroad” – this ragtag band of brothers not only turned the tide of the war; they also embarked on personal journeys of discovery and renewed Jewish pride. ABOVE AND BEYOND is their story.
Sunday, 16 August, 2015 Time: 6:00pm Following the AGM
For information & booking please contact our office: Tel. 5570 1851
ABOVE AND BEYOND
In 1948, a group of World War II pilots volunteered to fight for Israel in the War of Independence. As members of 'Machal' -- volunteers from abroad -- this ragtag band of brothers not only turned the tide of the war, preventing the possible annihilation of Israel at the very moment of its birth; they also laid the groundwork for the Israeli Air Force. ABOVE AND BEYOND is their story. The first major feature-length documentary about the foreign airmen in the War of Independence, ABOVE AND BEYOND brings together new interviews with pilots from the '48 War, as well as leading scholars and statesmen, including Shimon Peres, to present an extraordinary, little-known tale with reverberations up to the present day.
Filmed in the U.S., Israel and the United Kingdom, ABOVE AND BEYOND is produced by Nancy Spielberg (Elusive Justice) and directed by Roberta Grossman (Blessed Is the Match), with cinematography by Harris Done (The Last Days), special effects by Industrial Light & Magic and an original score Watch the trailer at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K78MY3EcBFU from Hans Zimmer’s Studio
- The Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation -
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Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel and many other critics ISRAEL - of this deal describe it as merely a delay, while the Obama administration seems to be suggesting by its rhetoric that Dershowitz: Does This Deal the deal will prevent Iran from ever obtaining a nuclear weapon. Prevent Iran From Developing a Nuclear Weapon? By Alan Dershowitz The devil is not so much in the details as in the broad outlines of this deal and its understanding by the parties. Does it or does it not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons after a relatively short moratorium? Iran certainly seems to believe that it does, Israel certainly believes that it does, and many in Congress-both Republicans and Democrats– seem to believe that it does. But the President seems to be telling the American public and the world that these critics are wrong: that Iran will never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon under this deal.
Yet, just a few months ago, he seemed more cautious and candid in discussing his “fear” that “in year 13, 14, 15, they have advanced centrifuges that enrich uranium fairly rapidly, and at that point the breakout times would have Does the proposed deal with Iran actually prevent the shrunk almost down to zero.” He also said that we have Mullahs from ever developing a nuclear weapon? Or assurances of a yearlong breakout time “for at least well does it merely delay them for a period of years? That is over a decade,” implying that after that indeterminate the key question that has not yet been clearly answered. time frame, the assurances will no longer be in place.
In his statement on the deal, President Obama seemed Obama’s statement, despite its confusing and ambiguous to suggest that Iran will never be allowed to develop a context, has raised deep concerns among critics of the nuclear weapon. He said that this “long-term deal with deal. Moreover, the text of the deal includes time frames Iran… will prevent it from obtaining a nuclear weapon.” of 8 years, 10 years and 15 years, which also generates He then repeated this assurance: “because of this deal, confusion at a time when clarity is essential. the international community will be able to verify that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not be able to develop a So which is it? Congress has a right to know, and so do the nuclear weapon.” American people. Is it a postponement for an uncertain number of years – 8, 10, 13, 14, 15 – of Iran’s ability to These seemingly categorical statements were intended develop a nuclear weapon? Or is it an assurance that to assure the world that President Obama would keep “Iran will not be able to develop a nuclear weapon?” his earlier promise that Iran will never be allowed to develop nuclear weapons. The Obama administration insists that this is not a “treaty,” but rather a “deal.” A deal is a contract, and for But is that what the deal itself does? Or, as stated by its a contract to be valid there must be a “meeting of the critics, does it actually assure that Iran will be allowed to minds.” But has there been a meeting of the minds over develop a nuclear arsenal after a short delay of several the central issue of whether this deal allows Iran to years? That is the key question that the Obama develop a nuclear weapon after a moratorium whose administration has refused to answer directly. It must do precise time frame is unclear? And if there has been a so before Congress can be asked to buy a pig in a poke meeting of the minds over this issue, what exactly is it? for the American people. Certainly the words of the Iranians are not the same as There is an enormous difference between a deal that the words of President Obama. Whose words accurately merely delays Iran’s development of a nuclear arsenal represent the meaning of the contract we are being asked for a period of years and a deal that prevents Iran from to sign? ever developing a nuclear arsenal.
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Continue…ISRAEL - Ask The Rabbi -
The time has now come to be crystal clear about the meaning of this deal. If it is intended to prevent Iran from How to Change a Daughter-in-Law ever developing nuclear weapons, the President must say By Aron Moss so in the clearest of terms and he must get the Iranians to express agreement with that interpretation. Ambiguity may be a virtue at the beginning of a negotiation, but it is Question: a vice in interpreting and implementing a deal with such high stakes. My son just got engaged to a wonderful Jewish girl, thank G d. We love and adore her—she is so good to Recall that President Bill Clinton made similar assurances him. But there is one issue: She has zero interest in with regard to North Korea back in 1994 – as the chart Judaism. She thinks it's “mostly rubbish,” but I know below shows. But within a few short years of signing a deal this is out of ignorance. I go to classes at my synagogue that he assured us would require the dismantling of North and ask her if she wants to join, but she never does. Korea’s nuclear program, that country tested its first She eats ham and cheese sandwiches! How can I show nuclear weapon. It now has a nuclear arsenal. How can we her, involve her, embrace her, without being the be sure that Iran will not act in a similar fashion? revolting jam-it-down-your-throat type? I want to explain to her how easy keeping kosher is, how The deal with Iran has been aptly characterized as a “leap wonderful it is to keep a Jewish home, how it adds to of faith,” “a bet” and a “roll of the dice” by David Sanger in your life and does not detract, etc. a news analysis for the New York Times. The gamble is that by the time the most restrictive provisions of the deal What do you think I can say to turn her around? expire, Iran will be a different country with more reasonable leaders. But can the world and especially the Answer: nations most at risk from an Iranian nuclear arsenal, depend on faith, bets and dice, when they know that the Here is the best thing you can say to her: nothing. last time the nuclear dice were rolled, they came up snake -eyes for America and its allies when North Korea ended Don't mention Judaism. Don't tell her about the great up with nuclear weapons. Jewish book you have been reading. Don't explain to her why you braid the challah. Don't invite her to come The burden of persuasion is now on the Obama to classes with you, and don't give her a rundown administration to demonstrate that President Obama was afterwards of what she missed. accurately describing the deal when he said that it will “prevent” Iran from “obtaining a nuclear weapon.” It is a Just do your thing. Be an example of a Jewish woman heavy burden that will be – and should be – difficult to whose life is enriched by Torah. Be good to her, nice to satisfy. her, accepting of her. Embrace her as she is right now. This will speak louder than any lecture you could give.
If one day she asks you a question about Judaism, give her an honest and meaningful answer. But wait for the interest to arise from within her.
In time, she may come to it herself, in her own way. You have to let her travel her own path. This may not come naturally to you, but it will be better in the end. Pushing her will only push her away, from Judaism and from you.
Many people turn to religion when they witness an open miracle. Well, you can perform a miracle right now. When she sees her passionate and outspoken mother-in-law letting her be, she will have to concede that indeed there must be a G d.
8 ISRAEL - ARTS & CULTURE-
Source: Jonathan Pollard Likely to Jerry Lewis, Legendary Jewish Comic be Released Later This Year and Humanitarian, Stays Relevant at 89 Author:Dovid Efune By Robert Gluck JNS.Org
Through appreciation of both his comedy and The U.S. Department of Justice is “seriously” considering humanitarian work, legendary Jewish entertainer Jerry the release of Jonathan Pollard later on this year, a Lewis is staying relevant at age 89. source with knowledge of the matter revealed to The Algemeiner on Friday. The only comic to ever be nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, Lewis added another award to his trophy case in Pollard, who was jailed in 1987 after he admitted to April, when he received the 2015 Distinguished Service passing classified information to Israel, would be Award from the National Association of Broadcasters released on Nov. 21 when he is eligible for parole, (NAB). Gordon Smith, NAB’s president and CEO, said the according to the source, who did not wish to be named organization was “honored to recognize not only [Lewis’s] due to the sensitivity of the matter. comedic innovation, but also his remarkable philanthropic efforts that have bettered the lives of thousands of The release would come at the 30th anniversary of his children.” arrest and amid a number of reports in recent years of his ill health and hospitalization. Pollard will be 61 years old on Aug. 7 and is being held at a federal prison in Butner, N.C.
The source stressed that the release is not connected in any way to the Iran nuclear deal announced this week on Tuesday, which has been a major source of tension between the U.S. and Israel.
There will be “no special exemptions,” the source said.
Last November, a group campaigning for the release of Pollard said a parole board denied a request to free him after American officials said the release would send the wrong message, The Times of Israel reported. At the Jerry Lewis (far left) in “At War with the Army.” time, the group said it would release information Photo: www.doctormacro.com. pointing to the White House’s attempts to prevent Pollard from going free, according to the report. Previous recipients of the NAB award include Jorge Ramos, Bob Schieffer, Michael J. Fox, Mary Tyler Moore, Pollard canceled a parole board hearing at the last President Ronald Reagan, Edward R. Murrow, Bob Hope, minute in April 2014 amid reports that his release could Walter Cronkite, Oprah Winfrey, and Charles Osgood. be secured as part of a political deal at the time to salvage U.S.-brokered peace talks between Israel and Born Jerome Levitch in Newark, N.J., to Russian-Jewish the Palestinians, The Times of Israel said. parents, Lewis is best-known for his entertainment career—spanning comedy, acting, singing, film Pollard is believed to be the only American ever to production, screenwriting, and film directing, all infused receive a life sentence for passing classified information with his slapstick humor. But he has made arguably as to an ally of the United States. Israeli officials, American significant of a mark in philanthropy, most notably as the and Israeli activist groups, and American politicians who longtime national chairman of the Muscular Dystrophy see his punishment as unfair have lobbied continuously Association (MDA), where he raised more than $2 billion for a reduction or commutation of his sentence. for MDA’s “Jerry’s Kids” initiative and hosted the organization’s annual Labor Day Telethon for more than 40 years.
9 FREE INTERNET & COMPUTER SKILLS FOR SENIORS @ K-HALL
Have you ever wondered what the Internet is?
Broadband for Seniors is funded by the Australian Government to provide senior Australians, aged 50 years and over, with free access to computers, Internet and basic training to help build their confidence in using new technology.
“It’s one of these occasions where an artist of strong gifts somehow gets out of his own self and transcends it. Jerry’s movies are filled with multiple identities and he plays multiple characters frequently,” said Levy. Decades later, in 1996, Eddie Murphy would play seven characters in the remake of The Nutty Professor.
Levy said Lewis’s entertainment career and humanitarian work combine to give him a unique Since it was announced in 2008, around 2,000 multifaceted legacy.“He has a real legacy as a Broadband for Seniors kiosks have opened across filmmaker and a comedian that is genuinely deserved, Australia with approximately 250,000 seniors and he gets overlooked sometimes, but he gets enjoying the benefits! rediscovered,” said Levy. “The muscular dystrophy work that he’s done, the concept of the telethon… and Broadband for Seniors aims to even being able to talk about muscular dystrophy. I truly believe that if it wasn’t for Jerry Lewis, we would • Provide senior Australians with access to not be able to have that conversation.” computers and the Internet via free Internet kiosks; • Support seniors to gain confidence and build skills in using new technology; • Address the issue of senior Australians feeling isolated and ‘left behind’ in a technological age; and
WE PROVIDE FREE INTERNET AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT EVERY WEDNESDAY FROM 10:00 - 11:30AM AT OUR KATRANSKY HALL - 35 MARKWELL AVE, SURFER PARADISE.
For more information contact our office on 5570 1851
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Here are eight monetary terms that, when redefined, SPIRITUALITY - can help us see money as a means for changing “never short-changing“ the world into a state of e MONEY TALKS, DO WE LISTEN? pluribus unum, where out of the many there becomes one, and where 'In God We Trust.' EIGHT FINANCIAL SECRETS WALL STREET WISHES IT KNEW By Rabbi Simon Jacobson HARD CASH -
It can mean one of two things: 1) cash is hard because it makes us hard; or 2) cash is hard because it is hard to come by. But money is meant to make us soft, to make the world more pliable, to ease burdens rather than increase them. It is much harder for money to make us soft than to make us hard. This ideal is indeed hard to come by. But it is well worth it.
LOOSE CHANGE -
Change is what we get back after we make a The lover of silver will not be sated with silver - purchase, the difference between the cost of the Ecclesiastes 5:9 item and how much we gave for it. Change is what we get back after we invest in the world - the Money is one loaded word. difference between the item as it was when we found it and the beauty it became after we touched Our approach to money very much reflects our it. approach to life. Money can be a catalyst for sublime change, but money can also be a catalyst INFLATION RATE - for extreme dysfunction. Inflation could be a good thing or a bad thing. If When they become adults, children often fashion money inflates us, we had best beware; but if money their monetary mentalities after the monetary is used to build up others and to build up the world, mentalities they grew up with. If the stresses of then it is humbling. money were always at the familial forefront, then children may grow up to have an unhealthy take on INVEST MEANT - money. We like quick returns, instant gratification, fast But what if money is seen as a means for us to money. It took the Creator six days to create the exchange with one another and change the world? market that is the world. Why not create it in one day, or one moment? Creation of the lasting sort There is a beautiful custom to hand out Chanukah takes time, investment, and maturation. We should gelt, 'Hanukkah money,' to children. The logic is not be deterred if at first we do not see the fruits of simple, but the psychological implications are our labor. It takes a minute to buy one apple; but it profound: Chanukah gelt says that instead of being takes a little longer to cultivate an apple orchard. We synonymous with selfishness, corruption, and are in the orchard business. greed, money is synonymous with light, joy, and miracles.
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HIGH INTEREST - When we are not interested in something, we approach it with indifference. By FAMILY - showing interest in money - studying not only how it is but also why it is - we begin to understand the 3 Simple Ways to Teach Your divine purpose behind its creation. Sure, money Children to Love Others by Adina Soclof earns interest. But even more: interest earns us the inner, soulful dimension of money. Love without judgment starts at home.
GOING BROKE - We can go broke while still The Talmud teaches that the second temple in Jerusalem remaining whole, just as we can make it rich while was destroyed because of sinat chinam, baseless hatred of one another. In every generation the Jewish people are still being completely broken. Losing money is not called upon to rectify this by practicing ahavat fun, but it is a whole lot better than losing sight of chinam, loving others freely without judgment. It’s not our selves and our purpose. The formula goes like easy but we can do it and it starts at home. this: the more fixed and wholesome we are in the things that truly matter - soul, purpose, meaning- Here are three simple ways to teach our children to love the less likely it is for us to be broke. freely without judgment:
1. He probably didn't mean it: CAPITAL & DIVIDENDS - The fact that we exist means that we have some major capital. We are Teach your kids the concept of giving others the benefit of here because the Creator of the market made an the doubt. initial investment in us. It is our job to make that The best way to do that is by role modeling. We can train investment pay big dividends. The Creator of this ourselves to think well of our family members and avoid global enterprise invests in us because the Creator attributing ulterior motives to their behavior. believes in us. We create an astronomical return on this investment by believing in the Cosmic CEO, “My husband left his bowl in the sink, because he is in the CEO's Divine business plan and, of course, by inconsiderate!” implementing it. “My daughter is not cleaning her room because she is BOTTOM LINE - Everybody makes money: only lazy!” some make more, some make less. Making money is easy; making a difference is not. “My son took apart his toy because he doesn’t appreciate or take care of his things.” The Creator of the market did not create us to make When we attribute negative motives to our family’s money. The Creator of the market created us to behavior, it generally makes us angry. And when we’re make a difference. Money is a bankable way to do angry, we tend to say what we think out loud, accusing that. them for their lack of consideration, appreciation, and their laziness.
If we assume that their intentions were positive then we are less likely to get angry, it is easy to judge our family in a favorable way:
“My husband is generally thoughtful, he must have been in a big rush this morning to leave his bowl in the sink like that.”
“My daughter is acting like a regular teen. Cleaning is not high on their list of priorities.”
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“My son loves to take things apart and see how things work. He is just being curious.” Personal Development: We can tell our family members about our thought process, giving them a living example of how giving the Growing Each Day benefit of the doubt works: “I was pretty upset about By Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski your broken toy, but then I figured I would give you the benefit of the doubt. You really wanted to see how it worked, huh?” You shall honor an elderly person, and you shall 2. Teach them to think of others: fear your G-d, for I am G-d (Leviticus 19:32).
It's the summer time, perhaps your child is a veteran This mitzvah is of particular importance in our camper at his summer camp. Kids are generally times, when many people are living to an older age. egocentric and they don't know how to put themselves in another person’s shoes. They might not even think Living longer does not always bring the joys of the that he can help those new campers navigate the golden years that some people expect. The "fifty- choppy waters of making new friends. It’s best if we two weeks of vacation a year" after retirement are point out ways that they can help often not a blessing; finding themselves with much
time on their hands, many retired people are When our children come home from their first day we can ask: extremely bored. “Any new kids in your bunk? What did you do to make them comfortable?” Not all couples age together; as our life spans increase, so does the possibility of losing our If we send our kids to sleep away camp, before they get partner and remaining alone for many years. on the bus we can give them a quick reminder to help Children may live far away, and even when close, the new kids in their bunk. they may lead busy lives with little time to devote to their aging parents. The wear and tear diseases - 3. Don’t Speak Gossip: emphysema, arthritis, osteoporosis - may make many people housebound. Failing sight and hearing We all know that speaking gossip is damaging, yet make the radio and television useless companions. children overhear it all the time. While we pray for long life, the "golden years" may “I can’t believe that Stan bought that house. What a be very, very lonely. dumb move it is falling apart!” In a society which prizes productivity, the elderly do “That Sara is such a klutz - this is the second accident she not have much value, and although society may pay got in!” its debt to them (albeit in inadequate payments), it “Did you see what Shana was wearing yesterday? She may be done with an attitude that is characteristic has no clue how to dress.” of a debtor to a creditor: resentment.
Listening to a constant stream of negativity teaches our As is evident in the construction of the verse cited kids to judge others and poisons relationships. Our kids above, the Torah equates honoring the elderly with can grow fearful, worried honoring G-d Himself. that they will also be judged just as harshly. So be aware of your speech and strive to make your home a gossip- Today I shall... free zone. do something to make the life of an elderly Teaching kids to love others without judgment is one of person a bit more pleasant. the most important lessons we need to impart. Teaching them to give the benefit of the doubt, reminding them to think of others, and avoiding gossip are three effective ways to impart this value.
13 Preceding the Japanese occupation of Singapore in - New Monthly Column - February 1942, Albert sent his wife of two years, Leah,
Heroes in our midst and their three month old son, Hertzel, to Bombay where he believed their safety could be assured. In fact
by Lynn Santer the ship carrying them was bombed, but they survived and were rescued by another vessel heading to Bombay. Albert planned to leave on the next ship, after tying up Jewel of the Orient his exporting and retailing business, but it was not to be.
During the first three months of the Japanese The ever effervescent Norman Lelah really didn't want occupation, Singapore was a virtual ghost town as strict me to talk about him in this column. Rather he wanted curfews were imposed. Shop owners were ordered to the story to focus on his father. Albert's story is more provide Japanese Army Officers any goods at no cost and than noteworthy but I will get to that in a moment. in June 1942, the Japanese gave an order for all Jews to assemble for registration. Albert declared himself an Iraqi subject, fearing for his life. As such, he and his brother were sent to infamous Changi Prison - where they were interned for three and a half years.
Albert Lelah AH
The first thing that struck me as I entered the office in Norman's Home Furnishings was an enormous menorah.
"Oh yes! Come and see," Norman gushed excitedly. "It's solid brass and set with semi precious gems. It weighs 14 kgs!!"
To the side of this exquisite piece lay a 200 year old silver Megillah with ivory handles and a magnificent Jewish incense burner of the same age - both from Morocco. To Norman Lelah at his warehouse display room the rear of the office were two enormous silver-plated copper urns from Ishaban, Iran. The urns are destined for Following the occupation, the family were reunited in Sotheby's in London while the other objet d'art are to be Singapore and with reparations paid by the British sold privately. Government, Albert opened a business in Bencoolen Street. Three years after the war, his business relocated Norman's history is steeped in the equatorial tropics of to the famous Change Alley. During those years he Singapore, where his father emigrated (from Iraq) in established loyalty among some high profile clientele. 1938. Ties between Arabs and Jews were worsening at Among the luminaries who Albert called "friend" were that time and rumours were rife about the fate of the Tungku Abdul Rahman (the former Prime Minister of Jewish people. Malaysia) and Khoo Teck Phuat (Chairman of Goodwood Park Hotels).
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The first Jewish people he met here were Gerald & Continue….. Heroes in our midst Lynette Moses. Gerald immediately became his
accountant and Norman subsequently joined our Shule where he has served on the Board under five separate Baby Norman had joined the family clan by then (born in Presidents - on three occasions as Vice President. He also 1947) and was raised in times during which "Albert became heavily involved with JNF while Viola busied Store" became the signature store in Change Alley. Albert herself with the Ladies Guild. All three Lelah brothers Store was the only shop bestowed with the prestigious have been instrumental in their local Jewish Certificate of Cooperation from the Singapore Tourist communities. His brother Donald built the first Sephardic Promotion Board and Albert was made Vice President of Shule in Melbourne and now conducts tours of the the Change Alley Merchants Association - an office he Melbourne Holocaust Museum. His brother Hertzel is held for fifteen years. involved with the second Synagogue in Singapore and the construction of a Jewish school for 250 students, costing During his retirement years, Albert dedicated his life to $140 million. (Contributions for both have been provided the Singapore Jewish Community and touched lives all by an extremely wealthy benefactor and friend of the over the world. He held office with the Jewish Welfare family from Singapore, the late Jacob Ballas.) And as we Board and regularly donated to The University all know, you will also see the Lelah name all over our Endorsement Fund, The Community Chest, Rabbi Meir Shule. Baal Ha Nes and Bayit Layeled - an orphanage in Jerusalem. "My father was my inspiration," Norman told me proudly. "He was a pure Zionist who supported many Norman was born right next door to the family's organisations and I have followed in his footsteps. My Singaporean Shule, Maghain Aboth. He was Bar deepest wish is that more people would come to our Mitzvahed there and he was married there. Unlike his Shule, attend functions and generally share friendship father, however, he did not marry a local girl. with each other."
A multi-millionaire friend of the family had repeatedly Friendship has indeed been a hallmark of Norman's life. invited Norman to visit Australia, so he decided to have This year marks the 60th anniversary of Norman's peers his 21st birthday here. Staying in the pool house of the who grew up together in Singapore. In celebration of North Shore Sydney home of their wealthy friend, their friendship, over one hundred people flocked back Norman met Viola. Viola was also enjoying their mutual from every corner of the globe to a Havana themed friend's hospitality, prior to a sea voyage she had planned Purim Party reunion. What a jewel of a night in the to Vanuatu with her sister. Orient that must have been!
When they met, Viola was hanging out with Frank Goldstein, Gerald & Judah Moses and the gang from the Gold Coast. Norman had never heard of the Gold Coast but was intrigued to visit following Viola's invitation.
After a stay in Cavil Avenue, Norman returned to Singapore unsure of where his relationship with Viola might be going. Although they kept in touch through correspondence, he travelled to London, New York and Israel but there was no one to compare to Viola. In 1971, he invited his bride-to-be to visit Singapore.
It was then he proposed and they were married a year later. Although life was good in Singapore, Viola was homesick. You know what they say: Happy wife - happy life. They moved to the Gold Coast shortly thereafter.
solid brass Menorah set with semi precious gems.
15 Anne Frank Exhibition, Let Me Be Myself the story of Anne Frank, coming to Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation in October.
Dear Friend,
The Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation together with The Anne Frank Australia Foundation, are proud and privileged to announce the opening of the new exhibition Let Me Be Myself – The Story of Anne Frank at The Katranski Hall 35 Markwell Avenue Surfers Paradise. The exhibition will run for five weeks commencing 26 October through 1 December 2015.
The exhibition was compiled by the Anne Frank Stitching in Amsterdam and is being shown for the first time on the Gold Coast. It includes Anne’s story and the historical context of her time as well as modules that specifically highlight the contemporary relevance of the story of Anne Frank. The Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation are delighted and honoured to present and host this exhibition. We look forward to welcoming visitors from a broad spectrum of the Gold Coast community who want to connect with, and learn from Anne’s story.
Seventy years after her death at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, Anne Frank’s story still speaks to those who are concerned with injustice. This outstanding exhibition depicts the spirited and hopeful nature that has made Anne a role model for young people around the world and shares important lessons about standing strong against prejudice and discrimination. This exhibit is sure to move anyone who takes the time to visit.
Let Me Be Myself contains seven historical modules designed to enable visitors to identify with the personal story of Anne Frank. The story of the Frank family is interlaced with information about the important historical events happening at the time and demonstrates the consequences the anti- Jewish measures had on one particular family. The film The Short Life of Anne Frank will be shown in a separate area.
The exhibit is open to the public for self-guided visits. Guided tours for school, community and private groups are encouraged and may be arranged during operating hours. Bookings for group tours are essential. Entry is by gold coin donation.
Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9.30am to 5pm, Friday 9.30am – 12pm and Sunday from 10am-4pm. For information regarding bookings, please contact the Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation at (07) 55701851 or email [email protected]. For details about the content of the exhibit, please contact iet Fuijkschot 0419 465516 or email [email protected].
For further information please visit the website: www.annefrank.org.au
16 BH
Katranski Communal Hall Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation
Monday 26 October - 1 December 2015 35 Markwell Ave, Surfers Paradise. Gold Coast. Queensland
Opening times: 9:30 am to 5pm Monday to Thursday Sunday 10am to 4pm Friday 9:30am to 12pm
Gold Coin Donation. Special guided viewing times for schools and groups by appointment Tel. Our office on (07) 5570 1851 - Email: [email protected] For more information and details please visit: www.annefrank.org.au
17
Though agents speculated that Chaplin's family might Was Charlie Chaplin Really have Russian origins, the MI5 was not able to resolve suspicions about the place of Chaplin's birth. The agency Israel Thornstein?
could not find any records of the actor's birth in England By ALEXANDRA LUDKA and RYM MOMTAZ under either name. It also said there was "no evidence His comic genius has been celebrated for a century, but that Chaplin's name is or ever has been Israel was Charlie Chaplin also a master of deception? Thornstein," or that he had been born in France.
According to newly released documents, both the FBI While a Washington-based MI5 liaison officer and Britain's MI5 spent years trying to determine if the determined that Chaplin had given funds to "communist star of silent films was actually a Communist born in front organizations," the agency also found no reason to France under the name Israel Thornstein. believe he was a spy.
On Friday, the British National Archives released "It is curious that we can find no record of Chaplin's birth, previously classified documents compiled by MI5 in the but I scarcely think that this is of any security 1950s revealing extensive cross-Atlantic surveillance of significance" wrote John Marriott, the head of MI5's the British actor for suspected communist ties. counter-subversion branch, in 1952.
It was the height of the McCarthy era in the U.S., the FBI Film historian Matthew Sweet told the AP that rumors was keeping a close eye on left-leaning Hollywood stars about Chaplin's biography had been circulating well and the bureau's staunchly anti-communist chief, J. Edgar before the McCarthy era. Hoover, privately derided Chaplin as "one of Hollywood's parlor Bolsheviks," MI5 historian Christopher Andrew The story about a French birthplace apparently told the Associated Press. originated with a film magazine article from the 1910s that said Chaplin was born while his mother was on tour near Paris. Rumors that Chaplin was Jewish became widespread after "The Great Dictator," in which Chaplin portrayed both a Jewish barber and Hitler-esque despot. Chaplin did little to correct the record.
Raised in London in poverty, Chaplin moved to the United States at 21 and became an international superstar with his downtrodden, bowler-hat-wearing alter-ego, the Little Tramp.
The iconic silent film star, who starred in such classics as "The Gold Rush" and "The Great Dictator," was effectively exiled from the U.S. in 1952, when Hoover arranged for the Immigration and Naturalization Service to block his return after a trip abroad. He returned to the U.S. in 1972 to receive an honorary Oscar, and also received a British knighthood in 1975, two years before his death at age 88. The honor was delayed 20 years because of Britain's concern over America's reaction.
The FBI asked its British counterpart to investigate Chaplin's personal background and political allegiances in a bid to ban him from the U.S. for fear of Soviet infiltration. Chaplin, whose mother and father were English entertainers, said he was born in London in 1889. The Americans wanted to see if he was actually born in France under the name Israel Thornstein, and if he was a Communist spy.
18
And yet it was but a few months ago that we were CULTURE- exposed to an eerily similar illustration of bigotry which
transcends any civilized norms of behavior. Omar Sharif and the Jews It was a selfie photo by the Israeli contestant in the Miss The Arab boycott against the actor Universe contest in Florida this year which started it. Miss and its contemporary sequel. Israel, Doron Matalon, wanted a souvenir and so she took
by Rabbi Benjamin Blech a picture of herself which included several others standing alongside. One of them unfortunately happened to be Miss Lebanon. On January 11, Matalon posted the picture Omar Sharif died last week. with the gleeful caption, “good morning from us.” And
that’s when the fireworks began. For those of us old enough to remember, Sharif was a cinema idol, a smolderingly handsome Egyptian leading The Arab world was incensed. After an avalanche of man of the 1960s embraced by Hollywood and criticism from within the Arab world, which frowns on catapulted into international prominence – as well as contact with Israel, Miss Lebanon, Saly Greige, issued a Oscar contention – for his role in Lawrence of Arabia. stunning repudiation of the image and even claimed to Success followed success and his fame became further have been avoiding Miss Israel throughout the cemented by his starring role in yet another sweeping competition. historical epic, Dr. Zhivago.
“The truth behind the photo,” she claimed was that “since the first day of my arrival to participate to Miss Universe, I was very cautious to avoid being in any photo or communication with Miss Israel (that tried several times to have a photo with me) … I was having a photo with Miss Japan, Miss Slovenia and myself; suddenly Miss Israel jumped in, took a selfie, and put it on her social media…this is what happened and I hope to have your full support in the Miss Universe contest.”
Translation: There is no way in the world I would ever have anything to do with a Jew so please don’t ostracize me for committing an unforgivable transgression. I swear I hate Jews just as much as you do. So please support me in achieving my goal in being named the most beautiful woman in the universe. Sharif had more than 100 films to his credit. He won three Golden Globe awards. In his personal life he was And this wasn’t the first time that Jew hatred affected the married to Egyptian cinema’s reigning screen beauty and Miss Universe competition. In 2002, Miss Lebanon together they were acknowledged as the glamour Christina Sawaya refused to join the competition because couple of their generation. Miss Israel Yamit Har-Noy was also competing.
Yet in spite of all this the matinee idol almost overnight It is sad beyond words that Omar Sharif was boycotted was transformed from superstar to villain, from celebrity more than half a century ago simply because of his to pariah. His crime was something that could not be relationship with a Jew. Sadder still is the realization that forgiven. Because of it his films were banned in his the unwillingness of much of the Arab world to this day to homeland as well as many other Arab countries. His sin? acknowledge the possibility for human contact and Sharif shared an on-screen romance with Barbra perhaps even friendship across racial and religious divides Streisand in the 1968 movie, Funny Girl. And Barbra of still defines contemporary reality. course is a Jew.
As the world mourns the death of Omar Sharif, perhaps it Sharif’s death brings back to mind a kind of irrational might take a moment to reflect on the irony that the hatred that would seem to be impossible of finding a cause of the boycott directed against him lives on in the parallel in our more enlightened times. continuing efforts of those who similarly seek to isolate present day Israelis and Jews.
19 HEALTH To Sleep, Perchance to Dream by Shira Isenberg |
Q: I toss and turn for hours every night, just staring at the clock. Is there anything I can change in my diet to help me get some rest?
A: You’re not alone; insomnia affects almost half (48 percent) of Americans, according to the National Sleep In the summer, if you have a late Friday night dinner, Foundation. This inability to get a good night’s sleep, you may have a harder time falling asleep on those either because you can’t fall asleep or stay asleep or evenings and possibly a harder time waking up for shul both, can be very frustrating and anxiety-provoking. In the next day as well. This can also be a problem for boys fact, feeling worried about not sleeping could be one who go to mishmar [late night learning sessions], as is reason you’re having a hard time drifting off. typical in many yeshivah programs.”
“Insomnia has a strong anxiety component,” explains TREATING INSOMNIA Clinical Psychologist Dr. Miriam Adler, executive director of Park Avenue Psychotherapy & Neurofeedback “One of the first steps in treating insomnia is ruling out Associates in Clifton, New Jersey. “For many people, part other causes,” says Kelly Brown, M.D., assistant of the insomnia loop is that they get anxious about professor of neurology at the Sleep Center at Vanderbilt whether they are going to have insomnia. It starts with a University in Nashville, Tennessee, who is a sleep night or two of difficulty falling asleep, and the next specialist. “Most of the time, when we treat the morning perhaps they can’t focus or they miss something underlying cause, the sleep difficulty resolves itself.” important. From that point onward, they become anxious in the evening, worrying, ‘Am I going to get up For example, undiagnosed sleep apnea (sleep tomorrow?’ They are so busy thinking about whether interrupted by breathing difficulties) can lead to non- they will get a good night’s sleep that their brains can’t restful sleep. Another fairly common condition, periodic relax enough to make that happen. limb movement disorder, leads people to “kick themselves awake all night,” describes Dr. Brown. “It “There is more shame when it’s a frum male who has goes along with restless leg syndrome - when an difficulty waking up in the mornings,” asserts Dr. Adler. individual is trying to fall asleep but feels like his legs “Religious observance becomes part of a person’s self- need to move.” Undiagnosed anxiety or depression may concept. Now, instead of ‘I have a hard time getting out also interfere with healthy sleeping. Dr. Brown has of bed,’ it’s ‘I don’t make minyan’—it becomes a bigger patients keep a sleep diary, tracking sleep habits like issue.” time spent in bed and amount of sleep to determine what is going on. Furthermore, because the Jewish calendar varies, it’s challenging to stick to a consistent sleeping schedule, Once alternate causes have been addressed, sleep generally a key component in treating insomnia. specialists use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients resolve sleep issues. “CBT works as well as “Obviously many people are able to have variances in sleeping pills in helping people fall asleep,” Dr. Brown their schedule without an insomnia problem,” Dr. Adler asserts. “It also offers long-standing benefits, whereas adds. “But for those who have more sensitive sleep-wake pills only work when the patient is taking them.” cycles or who have a history of sleep anxiety, a change in Sleeping pills have been associated with negative side an evening routine is a monkey wrench. Many people effects, like excessive drowsiness and increased need a certain amount of time to unwind before they can morbidity and mortality, adds Dr. Brown. transition into a sleepier state.
20 Researchers also identified a handful of nutrients that Continue….HEALTH may have a relationship to sleep. A lower intake of selenium (found in meat, dairy, grains and nuts) is linked to having a hard time falling asleep and an increased Creating a consistent healthy sleep routine, what’s intake of calcium (found in dairy products, fortified known as sleep hygiene, is one component of CBT for foods and certain vegetables, nuts and beans) is insomnia. (See sidebar for specific sleep hygiene associated with enabling one to fall asleep more easily. strategies.) “Just like for a young child we schedule dinner at X time, then bath, then bed,” describes Dr. However, iron aside, it’s not so helpful to focus on Adler, “sticking to a schedule [for adults] sets up both individual nutrients since foods contain a combination of body and mind to transition into sleep.” nutrients. An overall healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and other wholesome foods should help you Another strategy is sleep restriction—limiting the time get a good night’s sleep. spent awake in bed—which helps associate the bed with sleep. If you’re lying in bed unable to fall asleep, There’s a connection between large quantities of Dr. Brown recommends getting out of bed and doing a caffeine and insomnia: caffeine is thought to disrupt quiet activity like reading until you feel drowsy again. normal sleep cycles. Many people need to avoid consuming caffeine from the afternoon on. Alcohol may Because of the anxiety component, it’s helpful to learn similarly break up sleep during the night so it’s less to shut off worrisome thoughts that are keeping you restful, according to research. Alcohol also suppresses awake. Dr. Adler suggests focusing on relaxing and REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the stage in which you being comfortable, rather than thinking about falling dream. asleep. WHAT ABOUT KIDS? Relaxing does not come naturally to everyone, but training with a therapist can help. “People with The same types of strategies can be used for a child insomnia often benefit from learning calming activities struggling with insomnia (sleep troubles tend to run in like deep breathing and guided imagery, which help families): a consistent bedtime routine, a period of transition the brain into a less active, more tranquil winding down before bed and a strict no electronics rule state,” Dr. Adler says. in the bedroom. Children can be taught to release anxious thoughts, use guided imagery and focus on “In more extreme cases, I recommend neurofeedback, feeling comfortable in bed. a system which helps people monitor their brainwaves and train their brains to shift more easily into the Regardless of age, if sleep difficulties interfere with daily deeply relaxing delta brainwaves needed for satisfying activities, consider seeing a sleep specialist who will take sleep quality. Some people naturally have a deficit of a thorough history of your sleep habits to help delta brain waves,” Dr. Adler adds. determine the cause and best course of treatment.
NUTRITION AND INSOMNIA SHOULD I TAKE MELATONIN
A key nutrient of concern in sleeping difficulties is iron. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland in the brain, is “Iron deficiency is associated with restless leg normally found in our bodies. It regulates circadian syndrome; it can go away once iron is replaced,” rhythms and helps you both fall asleep and stay asleep. explains Dr. Brown. As people get older, levels of melatonin drop off, which may partly explain why some older individuals have a A recent study from the Journal of Sleep Research used harder time falling asleep. Despite the fact that information from national surveys to pinpoint several melatonin is a hormone, in the United States, melatonin other food and lifestyle habits related to sleep is considered a dietary supplement by the Food and challenges. For instance, dieting and eating few foods Drug Administration. Though it is generally considered and calories make people more likely to be sleepy safe, it’s not subject to the same types of regulation as a during the day and have a hard time falling asleep at drug, and can be bought without a prescription in any night. This might be due to simple hunger; it’s hard to dosage. nod off when your growling stomach is telling you to head to the kitchen.
21
Continue….HEALTH
Taking too much melatonin at a time can cause side effects, such as feeling hungover. Supplemental melatonin may make you more tired; be wary if you’ll be driving or operating machinery after taking it. It also can lower blood pressure at night. As with any supplement, consult your healthcare provider before taking melatonin. Misheberch - Prayer for the sick Melatonin is not specifically recommended for children because of a lack of study on its safety and efficacy in this Jewish tradition ordains that whenever the Torah is age group. Some small short-term studies have focused read we are granted a special and uniquely opportune on certain subgroups, like children with attention deficit moment to invoke blessing for those in need of divine hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism, and have found intervention. From time immemorial it has therefore melatonin to be beneficial with little risk of side effects. been the custom to recite a "Mi Sheberach" (prayer for Talk with your pediatrician before giving melatonin or the sick) on behalf of people who are ill. We pray for any supplement to your child. the people below, and wish them a speedy recovery:
Men Shira Isenberg is a registered dietitian and writer with a private nutrition practice in Memphis, Tennessee. She Yehuda Avraham Ben Beila Chaya has a master’s degree in public health nutrition from Michael Ben Baila Chaya Hunter College in New York. Shmuel Ben Alter Chaya Reyna Daniel Ha'Levi Ben Rochel
Shlomo Ben Dahlia IMPORTANT NOTICE Adam Gideon Ben Leah Michael Ben Mina Dear friend, Mordechai Ha'Levi Ben Rochel Yishai Ben Sara As we are approaching the final stages of printing our Tom Ben Miriam Chaim Ha’Levi Ben Miriam communal Jewish Calendar which is distributed to the Mordechai Ben Chana wider community in time for Rosh Hashana -the Jewish Shimon Dovid Ben Sara New Year, we would like to give you the opportunity Michael Ha'Levi Ben Baila well in advance to extend your New Year greetings to Tzvi Avigdor Ben Chaya Shaindl your family and friends through the pages of the Zalmen Ben Rochel calendar. To avoid any disappointments for the lack of Shmuel Ben Sara space we kindly ask you to fax or email your appropriate Philip Ben Faygelle message and the size of the ad you wish to see appear in Aaron Ben Sara this widely used publication Yehushua Ben Leah Shalom Ben Simcha
You can drop into our office Monday-Friday between Women
9:30-1:00pm or simply fax us your message on 5538
6712. or email us on: [email protected] Sarah Bas Leah Dalia Bas Tziyona The greeting sizes and prices available are as follows: Tziyona Bat Chana Peryla Bas Chana 1/8 A4 PAGE: $25.00 Gittel Bas Chana Rivka Bas Sara ¼ A4 PAGE $50.00 Faygelle Bas Chana Sara Bas Chana ½ A4 PAGE: $150.00 Tatyana Baas Fayna FULL A4 PAGE: $300.00 Tirtza Bas Tikvah
22 - Our new series of weekly classes -
23
Laughter….The Best Medicine
Moishe Goldberg was on his death bed and asked Rabbi Solomon to come and visit him.
Rabbi Solomon said, "Now is the time to repent for all of the sins that you have committed. Acknowledge that all of your sins were foolishness, and you were tricked by Satan and your yetzer hara (evil inclination).”
The dying man said nothing so Rabbi Solomon repeated his order.
Still Goldberg said nothing.
Rabbi Solomon asked, "Why do you refuse to denounce Satan and your evil inclination?"
Moishe Goldberg said, "Until I know where I'm heading, I don't think I ought to aggravate anybody."
Two little old ladies, Gertrude and Zelda, were sitting on a bench in Central Park having a serious conversation.
"Gertrude," said Zelda, "I don't understand something. I simply have no appetite lately. No matter how much I try to eat, I have no appetite."
Gertrude said, "Listen Zelda, my doctor, the lovely Doctor Myers, once told me that if I didn't have an appetite I should take a little piece of herring before meals and I would soon get an appetite. I tried it and it was true. So take my advice, Zelda and try a little piece of herring before lunch and you'll see, you'll develop an appetite."
A few days later the two meet again in the park.
"Nu, Zelda, how do you feel now? Did the herring give you an appetite?"
Zelda sighed, "I took your advice. First I had a little piece of herring. Then I had a whole herring. I really wanted to give it a chance, so I ate six herrings. But Gertrude, your advice didn't work for me. Would you believe, when lunch time came, I had absolutely no appetite!"
Back in Poland, in the shtetl, Rabbi Felder sees a young farmer struggling to reload a cart that had lost its load of hay.
"You look hot young man," said the rabbi. "Why don't you rest a moment and then I'll give you a hand?"
"No, thanks," said the young boy. "My father wouldn't like it."
"Don't be silly," the rabbi said. "Everyone is entitled to a break. Come, have a drink of water. Rest in the shade."
Again the young man protested. "Oh, no, rabbi. My father would be real mad!"
Losing his patience, the rabbi said, "Your father must be a real slave driver. Tell me where I can find him; I'll give him a piece of my mind!"The young farmer replied, "He's right there under that pile of hay!"
24
Chefs Corner
Grilled Chicken Salad
Dressing/marinade: Ingredients: 1/4 - 1/2 cup oil (add a bit of water if using less oil) 1 bag cut up romaine or iceberg lettuce 1/4 cup sugar 1 box of cherry tomatoes 1/4 cup vinegar 3 pieces of boned chicken breasts 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 clove of garlic, crushed or minced into very fine pieces 1 teaspoon mustard 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Grill chicken separately for 6 minutes on each side until flesh is white in color. Cut each piece of chicken breast in half and diagonally cut into thin strips.
Shake all dressing ingredients together in a container/dressing bottle until thoroughly mixed. Add grilled chicken pieces and give another shake or two to coat the chicken with the dressing/marinade. Let chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 3-5 hours.
Before serving, cut the cherry tomatoes in half and toss with lettuce. Pour the dressing/marinade with the chicken over the salad and mix. Enjoy.
Note: You can serve this salad as an entrée. Sprinkle lettuce on plate, then artfully design cherry tomatoes in a circle around the plate and place chicken pieces in the center. Pour dressing over the plate just before serving.
This salad dressing is also great on coldcuts. Combine lettuce, cherry tomatoes and bits of coldcuts, omitting the chicken, for a delicious coldcut salad.
By Aish.com
25 - Book Review -
The Jewish Olympics: The History of the Maccabiah Games Dov Levin and Zvie A. Brown; Jessica Setbon
While as a whole the Jewish people are often typecast as a cerebral people, more interested in academic pursuits than in physical prowess, Jews have at the same time held a deep love affair with sport. We take pride in the Jewish roots of major league players or and celebrate the moments when Jews have openly expressed their commitment to Judaism above the game. These celebrities allow us to think differently about the balance Judaism has set between the brain and the body, and to consider the history of Jews in sports as more than just a celebration of a great pastime with a Jewish twist.
Ron Kaplan’s new book, The Jewish Olympics: A History of the Maccabiah Games, has again sparked this conversation for the avid sports reader. At the same time, it may open anew this topic for those interested in the use of sport to celebrate Jewish peoplehood, combat anti-Semitism, foster Zionism, and build Jewish pride.
Kaplan, a sports and features editor for the New Jersey Jewish News, offers us a history of the Maccabiah Games from its inception in 1932 to the celebration of the nineteenth games in 2013. Following an introduction to the rise of Jewish sports clubs, the Maccabi Movement, and the realities of Jewish life in Europe in the late nineteenth century, The Jewish Olympics dedicates a chapter to each Maccabiah Games. To differentiate one Maccabiah Games from the next, Kaplan focuses on the surrounding history, athletes, and record of sports competition that makes each Maccabiah Games unique. At the same time, the author pauses on occasion to share “Maccabiah Profiles,” vignettes about athletes whose stories merit additional attention. It is a fun read for those who love anecdotes on sports, sports history, and the business of sports.
In addition, each chapter opens with a quote that reflects on the importance of the Maccabiah Games for the Jewish people and the State of Israel at that moment in history. For example, the chapter on the ninth Maccabiah Games, held in July 1973, opens with a quote by Chaim Wein—then Maccabiah Games Organizing Chairman—reflecting on the importance of an international Jewish sports event following the massacre of eleven Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics of 1972. By placing each Maccabiah Games within the larger context of Jewish history, the reader appreciates how this competition brings the Jewish people together to both celebrate and commemorate a yearning for global peoplehood and a love for Israel.
The Jewish Olympics concludes with a listing of Maccabiah athletes who have also won medals in the Olympics. While the topic of Jews in sports could be seen as a study for your next Jewish trivia game, Kaplan’s book does more than that. The Jewish Olympics provides both the sports aficionado and those interested more in Jewish history a window into how the Maccabiah Games has helped to transform Judaism and build the Jewish homeland. Less concerned with getting the sports record straight, The Jewish Olympics confirms one’s appreciation for the Maccabiah Games as a vehicle for engaging Jews from all over the world in ways that other aspects of Jewish life still struggle to do.
Review by Jonathan Fass
Skyhorse Publishing 2015 296 Pages Available at Amazon
26 - Our new variety of classes in our new weekly Series -
Our lessons probe the depth of contemporary Torah thought, with a special focus on issues surrounding spirituality, the human psyche, love and interpersonal relationships. Every experience offers meaningful and timely lessons – from the most timeless of texts. You will walk away surprised, inspired, and knowing more about who we are as Jews, and who you are as an individual. We invite you to browse through the topics in this catalogue of classes below and join us for a weekly dose of uplifting Jewish study. If you find any topics that you think may be of interest to your friends, please encourage them to come along. Checkout our variety of classes on page 22
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It’s not just about visitation.
It’s about friendship.
It’s about community.
The Sunshine Club is a unique volunteer program under the auspices of the Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation designed to bring cheer and companionship into the lives of Jewish seniors all throughout the Gold Coast.
Whether for seniors living on their own, in assisted living facilities or convalescent homes, the Sunshine Club matches up caring friends to be there with and for seniors - to visit, to assist and to uplift. To share experiences, to spend quality time, to celebrate special occasions and to create wonderful memories together.
Programs:
• Weekly Friendship Visits • Recreational Activities • Book-Reading • Arts & Crafts • Family Connections • Holiday Celebrations • Educational Materials • Cultural Events
If you would like to become a Sunshine Club Volunteer or if you are a senior – or know of a senior – who can benefit from the Sunshine Club, please call our office on 5570 1851 or Rabbi Gurevitch on 0419 392 818
28
PHOTOS OF THE MONTH Camp Gan Izzy --- Winter Day Camp 2015
29 PHOTOS OF THE MONTH
‘Mummy & Me’ toddlers weekly get together
Cheder Sunday School New artwork in our Katranski Hall
30 WE THANK THE YAHRTZEIT OBSERVANCE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR FOR THE MONTH OF ALIYA OFFERING Menachem Av-Elul - August
Alex Weimann We extend our wishes for long life to the Shmuel Cohen following who are observing a Yahrzeit: R.Emmanuel
Raphael Sebbag 16th Av-1st August Nir Gurevitch Son-in-law of Helga Herling David Rebibou
Gerald Moses 20th Av-5th August Norman Lelah Chana Shoshana Bas Fruma Malka- Larry Cohen Wife of Stanley Rubens Kim Gorris
Andrew Berkhut 27th Av- 12th August John Donath Mendel Jodaikin-Husband of Leonie Jodaikin Mr.Freedman
Daniel Gould 27th Av- 12th August Stephan Rebibou Toba Rabie-Grandmother of Isaac Zuliakha Pinchus Cohen
Isaac Zulaikha 28th Av - 13th August Tommy Berrebi Anna Malecki-Sister of Henry Malecki Frank Goldstein
Robert Nossbaum 28th Av - 13th August Vernon Jackson Ralph Tieman-Father of Clare Santer Lawrence Jackson
Harold Sachar 30th Av -15th August Andrew Berkhut Richard Eliakim-Husband of Denise Eliakim
nd th BIRTHDAYS FOR AUGUST 2 Elul- 17 August Halina Bialylew-Mother of Henry Malecki
Simone Cohen 1st 4th Elul-19th August Sam Goodchild 5th Fivel Ben Yisroel Halpern-Brother of Louis & Fae Gordon 7th Benjamin Halpern
Ros Pelerman 7th 7th Elul-22nd August Frank Goldstein 8th Orah Bat Levi
Maurice Sackvile 12th 10th Elul-25th August Geoffrey Heimann 14th Steven Robert Maxwell-Grandson of Helga Herling Louis Halpern 17th 11th Elul-26th August David Taylor 17th Betsy Semp-Mother of Myer Semp John Donath 30th 12th Elul-27th August Janet Klevansky 31st Rebecca Berkhut-Wife of Zelig Berkhut Godel Wroby 31st 13th Elul-28th August
We extend a Refuah Sheleyma Jacob Isadore Appelbaum-Father of Lynne a full and speedy recovery to: Appelbaum
ANNOUNCEMENTS Mike Simons, Henry Malecki and Zelig Berkhut 31
If undeliverable return to: POSTAGE PAID The Gold Coast Hebrew Congregation P. O. Box 133 AUSTRALIA Surfers Paradise 4217 Queensland, Australia
100003857