1 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 כאן צוה ה’ את הברכה CommunityNewspaper

פרשת צו | י"ד אדר ב, תשס”ח | בס”ד weekly vOL. i | NO 20 March 21, 2008 | Adar II 14, 5768 The Zalman Shimon Dvorkin

Shimshon: “You are all invited to the grand Purim The Crown Heights Seuda. I’ll be watching from above to make sure that Vaad Hakohol you are there and in would like to wish happy spirits. everyone a Safe Don’t forget to say L’chaim andFreilachen because I’ll be Purim, and a very watching.” Gut Shabbos

Are you tired? Page 15 You lack water! Beis Din of Crown Heights 390A Kingston Avenue, , NY Tel- 718~604~8000 Fax: 718~771~6000 A. Osdoba: ❖ Monday to Thursday 10:30AM - 11:30AM at 390A Kingston Ave. ☎Tel. 718-604-8000 ext.39 or 718-604-0770 Sunday-Thursday 9:30 PM-11:00PM ~Friday 2:30PM-4:30 PM ☎Tel. (718) - 771-8737 Rabbi Y. Heller is available daily 10:30 to 11:30am ~ 2:00pm to 3:00pm at 788 Eastern Parkway # 210 718~604~8827 ❖ & after 8:00pm 718~756~4632 Rabbi Y. Raitport is available by appointment. ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 Rabbi Y. Zirkind: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 Erev Shabbos Motzei Shabbos Rabbi S. Segal: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 ❖ Sun ~Thu 5:30pm -9:00pm or ☎718 -360-7110 Rabbi Y. Osdoba ☎718~604~8000 ext 38 ❖ Sun~Thu: 10:0am -11:30am ~ Fri 10:am - 1:00 pm or ☎ 6:52 7:52 718 -604-0770 Rabbi S. Chirik: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 38 ❖ Sun~Thu: 5:00pm to 9:00pm Gut Shabbos 2 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 The Vaad Hakohol The Purim Seuda on Erev Shabbos Come One, Come All! By Rabbi Shlomo Segal the Rashab was in Vienna. For Baruch Hashem, we are really excited about the upcoming Shimson and Martha Member of Crown the Purim seuda, Lubavitcher Chas- Stock Community Purim Seuda. As always, the beloved and talented Dovid Heights Bais Din sidim arrived and also Polish and Shalom Pape will be our host. He has such a special way with people, making Hungarian Jews. It was a very nice everyone feel welcome and happy that they came. B’rov Am Hadras Melech. Question: When which lasted from 2 to 8 PM. Everybody will be treated like a king or queen. Bring your friends and associates one conducts the Then they davenedK abbolas Shabbos and make it into a real festive Purim where everyone’s requests will be granted Purim Seuda that followed by the Shabbos Seuda until through their fulfilling the mitzvah of Ad D’lo Yada and L’chatchila Ariber in has extended into 1AM. Ariber. A gut Shabbos and a Freilichen Purim. פורס Shabbos, he is covers A similar story to this was told by the) מפה ומקדש the Challah and Previous Rebbe regarding Purim 5667 makes Kiddush (1927). In his letter dated the 15th of in the middle of the seuda) to allow the Cheshvan 5668, or late 1927 [published extension of the seuda. When does one in his Igros vol.1 pg. 632], he writes, daven Kabbolas Shabbos – is it in the “The beginning of the seuda was around middle of the seuda or after the seuda? 4:00, and around 7:00 was already in And if the Kabbolas Shabbos is in the the middle of the seuda. Prior to the middle of the seuda, does he still say Al recital of the Maamor Chassidus, we Hanisim in benching after the seuda? davened Maariv and then continued the seuda with drinking, rejoicing, Answer In the Sefer Sheloh (Mesechta words of awakening and nigunim until Megila begin. paragraph “Purim”) he the morning.” writes: “There was a big controversy between myself and some communities From all the above, we see that the outside of Israel regarding people who Rebbe’im would daven Maariv in the eat after Mincha and do not notify middle of the seuda. people to come to Maariv. There are two things which are wrong with But we could refer to what the Magen this conduct, nullifying a tefila with a Avrohom (Orach Chaim chapt. 695:9) minyan, and the people are intoxicated, mentioned about a controversy of the forgetting Maariv which was already poskim regarding one who davens in accepted now as an obligation (as middle of the sedua, if he needs to say the other Tfilos) and Krias Shema Al Hanisim. which is a commandment. Is it appropriate that in a day in which the It seems from the Mordechai (one of Jews had ‘light’ which alludes to Torah, the Rishonim) that one does say Al certain commandments should be Hanisim, yet in the minhagim cited in Oholei Menachem/ has recently completed two separate eradicated? Will this find favor in the different seforim it states not to sayA l entrance atriums to serve as men’s and women’s entrances to simchas. The con- eyes of Hashem?” Hanisim. The Magen Avrohom con- struction project cost 50K and was inspired by a call from Beis Din Rabbonim, cludes, “Therefore, it seems to me that Rabbi Osdoba, Rabbi Segal, and Rabbi Zirkind, to enhance observance of tznius The Sheloh continues, “Because of one should first bench and then daven at simchas, bringing standards to the highest level befitting of Lubavitch. The the above mentioned reasons, people Maariv to avoid making a decision in should leave in middle of their seuda this controversy.” to come to shul to daven Maariv. This is not considered an interruption of TheA lter Rebbe in his the seuda, because they are leaving (chapt. 188: 17) writes, “One who has their family members by the sueda, eaten on Shabbos (the same is relevant and davening in middle of a seuda is for Purim) and his seuda extended into not considered an interruption.” The the night, even if it was many hours into Sheloh adds that “Al Hanisim should the night, when he benches he needs to be said, even if one davened Maariv in mention Shabbos “R’tze” (or Purim) in middle of the seuda.” the benching, because we follow the beginning of the seuda which was in The PreviousR ebbe in his sicha of Shab- the daytime. This is conditional on the bos Chal Hamoed Sukos 5700 (1940) fact that he did not yet daven Maariv, [published in Sefer Hasichos 5700 pg. but if he davened Maariv even it was 37] recalls Purim of 5663 (1903) when still daylight, he does not mention the event of the day.”

Newspaper But the Pri Megadim, in the Eshel Community the 15th of Adar. Nevertheless, it is old entrance is soon to be closed up, Avrohom, comments on the Magen 392 Kingston Avenue mentioned in poskim, including the allowing for the exclusive use of the Avrohom’s words [“One should first Brooklyn, NY 11225 Mishne Brura (chapt. 693), that if one new atriums. Additionally, the bench and then daven Maariv”], and Published & edited weekly by the Vaad Hakohol mistakenly said “Al Hanisim”, he does hopes to have a shomer at simchas to writes, “The custom is not so in the of Crown Heights. not need to repeat the davening because direct people to adhere to the new communities; they probably rely on the , Rosh Hakohol “Al Hanisim” is related to these days. entrance rules. Sheloh” (mentioned above). Dr. Tzvi (Harvey) Lang, Chairman It is unlike the seuda of Shabbos that Rabbi Plotkin, Secretary is extended into Motzoei Shabbos--if Layout: SimplyUnique ([email protected]) We can possibly explain the custom of one davened Maariv in middle of the All material in this paper has been copyrighted. It is the the Rebbe’im and the communities that exclusive property of this newspaper, unless otherwise meal and mentioned Havdala in the Maariv after Purim does not contradict attributed., and cannot be reproduced without the consent davening, he can not recite “R’tze” in of the publisher. Purim. It is known that there are many the benching at the end of the seuda, Composition responsibility: This newspaper will not be poskim who have the opinion that on because this would be considered as liable for errors appearing in advertising, beyond the cost the 15th of Adar one needs to say “Al of the space occupied by the error. Advertiser assumes two aspects contradicting each other. Hanisim” also, despite it stating in the responsibility for errors in telephone orders. All adver- See also Nimukei Orach Chaim and tisement designed and prepared by the CHCommunity Shulchan Aruch (chapt. 693:2) that Shaarei Tshuva who have explained Newspaper are the property of the newspaper and cannot one should not say “Al Hanisim” in be reproduced without the consent of the publisher this difference. March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 3 From Shedlitz to Safety

among the older bochurim. Every A Young Jew’s Story of Survival Shabbos, after I finished davening and eating, I went with some of my friends trips normally occurred at night. We had regular classes at set times: By Rabbi Shimon Goldman to observe how the older bochurim Rabbi Gustman gave the shiur for the prayed. As mentioned earlier, the upper The yeshiva inV ilna sponsored many of older boys, and a new Exerpted from the book with the author’s floor of our building housed the ladies the bochurim who wanted to join these was appointed to teach the younger permission gallery. Older bochurim used this quiet transports. Yeshiva students had no class. The new teacher was Reb Zal- Continued from last week and unobtrusive location to meditate on money of their own, and could hardly man, a close friend of Rabbi Gustman Chassidus before starting their lengthy afford to pay their share of the hefty and a former student of the Grodno Reb Yakov Trukenheim was another prayers. This was the way: to bribes. However, the yeshiva paid the yeshiva. familiar figure among the refugees. avoid fanfare, to serve G d without organizers of the transports only after Before the war, Reb Yakov had been a showy demonstration. My friends and the bochurim actually reached Vilna. Our new teacher was also the son-in- member of the Senate — an assembled I spent hours watching from the sides law of the brother of the illustrious body of delegates that had greater power of the ezras noshim. Totally oblivious I remember the day when Reb Mendel Lithuanian Torah scholar, Reb Boruch than the Polish Sejm. Reb Yakov had to our presence, the bochurim sat lost Tenenbaum and Reb Shmuel Dovid Ber of Kaminetz. Reb Zalman taught lost all his wealth and prestige, and sat in thought, davening slowly as they Raichik arrived in Vilna. After joining superbly. His classes quickly became now like so many others sitting and contemplated deeply into the Chassidic one of these transports, the two bochu- famous throughout Vilna, to the extent studying the holy words of Likkutei discourses they had studied. Their rim spent the entire night crossing the that other roshei yeshiva began send- Torah. prayers were permeated with spiritual border between and Lithuania. ing their children to the Lubavitcher sweetness, with the special fervor At one point, Reb Shmuel Dovid fell yeshiva just to hear Reb Zalman teach! During all this time, we anxiously that comes with the study of Chabad behind the rest of the group. Imagine These roshei yeshiva knew full well that awaited the actual occupation of Vilna Chassidus. the fright of a young boy lost in com- operated and prac- by Lithuanian forces. The occupation plete darkness, left standing alone on ticed like a true Chassidic yeshiva, yet was considered imminent, and we could Reb Mendel Tenenbaum and Reb Zev dangerous territory! they had no qualms about sending their hardly rest until we knew for certain Greenglass were among these bochu- own children to learn with us. These that the Lithuanians — who were far rim, as was Reb . Reb Reb Shmuel Dovid Raichik included such famous roshei yeshiva better than theR ussians — would gain Zev stood with his elbows propped on Reb Mendel Tenenbaum as Reb Reuven Grozovsdy of Kaminitz control of the city. When that day finally a wooden lectern, gently swaying back did arrive, the joy on the streets was pal- and forth as he contemplated Chassidus pable. I cannot remember the exact date and davened. Reb Zev’s unusual powers the occupation began, but I remember of concentration were readily apparent; it occurred on a Shabbos morning. We he seemed totally divorced from his rushed out onto the streets, staring surroundings. As he stood there lost in wide-eyed as the Lithuanian soldiers thought one Shabbos afternoon, Reb marched proudly through the city. Zev lost his balance and fell backwards, causing the lectern to overturn and fall Overnight, the local economy improved on top of him. Thankfully, Reb Zev dramatically. Until then, the prevalent suffered no physical harm, yet precisely lack of merchandise had forced many this incident left an unforgettable mark merchants to close their doors, and on me, underscoring once more what the stores that did remain open were it truly meant for a chassidishe bochur full of empty shelves. Now however, Luckily for Reb Shmuel Dovid, his (Reb Boruch Ber’s son-in-law), Reb to daven. after the Lithuanian takeover, all the friend Reb Mendel was also part of Naftali of Radin, Rabbi Kalmanovitz stores re-opened for business and their the transport. “Mendel!, Mendel!,” of Mir, and many others. Another remarkable personality I met shelves fairly groaned under the weight he called frantically, trying to locate in Vilna was Reb Yakov Hoffman. of assorted merchandise. Lithuania the group. Reb Shmuel Dovid was In retrospect, I now realize that these Originally from Dokshitz — the same had once again become a democratic from Malava, where locals could not special days in Tomchei Tmimim of town as Reb Yochanan Gordon, my country. We yeshiva students joined enunciate the Hebrew letter lamed Vilna forged my unshakable bond future father-in-law — this special the local residents in hoping that better properly, and his pronunciation came with Lubavitch. The warm Chassidic Chassid could always be found learning times were finally upon us. out as “Mendew, Mendew.” Amused atmosphere, the advanced level of study, Torah. Even as he walked the streets, his by his unusual accent, members of the the fervent prayers — all these imbued lips moved constantly as he reviewed Despite the improved environment, transport smiled at each other in the us with a sense of spiritual bliss. Dur- the holy words of Mishnayos and none of us felt comfortable living in dark before quickly locating the lost ing Succos, I joined my friends on the . Reb Yakov was a sickly person, Vilna. We all had close family stranded boy. Thanks to his quick thinking,R eb streets, stopping passersby and asking always suffering from one ailment or in Poland — parents and siblings, aunts Shmuel Dovid was soon reunited with them to recite the blessing over the lulav another. His wife and daughter were and uncles, cousins and friends. We did his group, joining them as they crossed and esrog. In those days, these activities also unwell. Yet, physical suffering and not feel as though Vilna had become the border and entered Vilna. were not yet called “mivtzayim,” but we pain could not diminish Reb Yakov’s our new home, a safe haven from the did it anyway. constant preoccupation with the study ongoing calamities. Instead, we viewed Reb Zev Greenglass, another new of Torah. Vilna as a transit stop, another resting arrival, caused somewhat of a stir when Reb Elya Moshe Liss was the mashgiach point on the long road to our destina- he arrived in Vilna. His short jacket, for the younger students. He ensured Reb Yakov began teaching Tanya for tion — the United States of America, reddish complexion and blonde hair that we came on time to class and the people who frequented our shul. where the Rebbe Rayatz lived. seemed strange to us, but we quickly utilized our time properly. Reb Elya Reb Shmuel Zalmanov had started the realized that Reb Zev was an excep- Moshe taught us Tanya and Likkutei shiur, but when he leftV ilna, it was Reb New Faces, New Figures tional bochur. Reb Zev possessed a Torah and, aside from these scheduled Yakov who continued the class. Scores wealth of knowledge far beyond his classes, he gave of his personal time to of learned Jews who never opened With the passage of time, more and years, a truly extraordinary grasp of talk and farbreng with us. These infor- a Tanya in their lives sat transfixed more Tmimim joined our yeshiva. A Chassidus. He was a real chassidishe mal get-togethers had a tremendous around Reb Yakov, thirstily absorbing large number of people managed to bochur, someone who spent hours impact on us. Reb Elya Moshe spoke his every word. Many Polish Jews enter Vilna while the border separating immersed in prayer. to us with sincerity and warmth, with erroneously thought that Tanya was Russia and Lithuania remained open. words that truly emanated from the a complex, mystical text, filled with Others joined special transports, guided Reb Zev Greenglass heart. His captivated the abstruse ideas far beyond the reach of by expert smugglers who knew vulner- students, pulling us steadily closer to ordinary laymen. Reb Yakov dispelled able spots along the border. They bribed The yeshiva grew steadily as more and the world of Lubavitch. this myth through his superb classes, the border guards with exorbitant sums more refugees arrived. Each new face enabling many people to understand of money, ensuring the guards would strengthened the core of students, until Another indelible impression that and appreciate this holy book. People look the other way while the transport our classes resembled a normal yeshiva remains with me from those days is even said that Reb Yakov knew the crossed the border. These suspenseful operating under peaceful conditions. the special mode of prayer I witnessed entire Tanya by heart. 4 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 Our Heroes

Horav Hagaon Hachossid Reb (1901-1985) Part I Reb Zalman Shimon studied for thir- and confiscated his property, most of In 1926, Reb Zalman Shimon married teen years in Tomchei Tmimim. There the students in Rostov went home. Rebbetzin Tzivia, the daughter of the By: Rabbi Michoel Seligson he absorbed the Chassidic richness and The Previous Rebbe’s arrest, as well Gaon and Chossid, Reb Menachem as the hunger and rag- Mendel Dubrowsky, who served as the Reb Zalman Shimon Dworkin, the ing disease, led to the Rav in the Russian city Krolevetz. Rav and Mora D’asra of the Crown closure of the yeshiva Heights community for twenty years, in Rostov. A year after his wedding, Reb Zalman was born in 1901 in Rogotchov to Reb Shimon was appointed the Rav and Yerucham and Rivka. Reb Zalman “Reb Binyomin Shlomo shochet of Warunuk, a city in Ukraine. Shimon’s father was a G-d fearing Gansburg, in business After several years he moved to Stardov, person and a teacher of unique caliber dealing with foreign where he served as the Rav of the city. who taught children unable to afford coins, told the bochu- tuition. Despite his resultant poverty, rim that there was food From year to year, as the communist Reb Yerucham moved his son from in Poltova and that government became more entrenched, the where he was learning to Anash there would the physical and spiritual condition the cheder of Reb Elozor Garelik. Reb support the yeshiva. of the Jews in Russia degenerated, Elozor was an expert and sought after Rabbi Ganbsurg, Rabbi particularly from the persecution of teacher whose students generally were Shlomo Itkin, Rabbi religious Jews in general, and of Rab- from more affluent families. Shmuel Dobroskin and bonim and those working in Jewish additional members mosdos, specifically. Despite all this, Our sages taught us to “Be careful with of Anash took on the Reb Zalman Shimon exerted himself to children of poor families, because from responsibilities of spon- continue spreading Torah, conducting them Torah will come.” Aware of his soring the yeshiva. shiurim for scholars and the Jewish young son’s abilities, Reb Yerucham populace at large. At times, he had to realized that to fulfill his potential, “I entered the Previous remain hidden, and he and his wife had Zalman Shimon needed to attend Rebbe’s room for Yechi- very little to live on. a Yeshiva. When he was eleven years dus and inquired about old, his father brought him to Yeshivas traveling to Poltova. The In 1937 and 1938, government’s per- Tomchei Tmimim in Lubavitch, at Rebbe rejoiced upon secutions escalated, and thousands that time considered a “manufactur- pride that streamed from every corner hearing the suggestion and with a shin- of Rabbonim and Chassidim were ing plant” of students who excelled of the yeshiva: from the students, ing face blessed me and added, ‘When arrested and tortured. The Rav of in Torah, fear of G-d, Chassidus, and Ovdim and Maskilim, who were great you arrived in Rostov, you were greeted Stardov was not spared. Reb Zalman refined personal character traits. in Torah and fear of Hashem; from with hunger and by the KGB. Hashem Shimon managed to escape in a miracu- the mashpiim, giants in knowledge of should grant that this trip should be lous way. He was on his way home Reb Zalman Shimon was enrolled in chassidus and in the ways of service successful and a good beginning for the when the agents came to arrest him. the division for the younger students to Hashem; and above all, from the opening of Yeshivas Tomchei Tmimim Reb Zalman Shimon’s wife signaled to who were supported by their parents presence of the Rebbe Rashab and in Poltova.’ We traveled to Poltova by her neighbor, who told him not to go and relatives. When there was no sup- the Previous Rebbe. As a “cemented train. At one of the stops, we were forc- home. He immediately left the city and port available, Reb Zalman Shimon container that does not lose a drop”, ibly removed from the train, and when traveled indirectly to Leningrad. After fulfilled his Torah study as our sages Reb Zalman Shimon preserved the we attempted to get back on, we were a short period of time, his wife has able have stated, “Eat bread with salt, sleep memory of it all, which remained fresh prevented at gunpoint. We walked the to join him. In this large city, Reb Zal- on the ground, and a painful living and alive until his last day in this world. remainder of the way, and on the Friday man Shimon worked as a book binder you should experience.” Reb Zalman In addition to this, he himself remained, before Shavuos, we reached Poltova. to support them both. He continued Shimon devoted himself to Torah in his essence, as a “Lubavitcher yeshiva spreading Torah, conducting shiurim study and was very successful. His bochur”, even after he left the yeshiva, “Over the course of the summer, stu- on the and its commentaries. melamed, Reb Yehoshua Arsh, a gifted until his last breath. dents from many different cities flocked and devoted teacher, was so impressed to Poltova where we remained until With the outbreak of World War II, by his talented and hard-working In the course of his studies in the right before Pesach of 1923. After Leningrad was surrounded by German student that when Reb Zalman Shi- yeshiva, he became friends with Reb Pesach I received a letter that theK GB troops. Reb Zalman Shimon and his mon became Bar Mitzva, his teacher Yehuda Eber, who would later become has closed the yeshiva, and it was being wife were left in distress. In addition personally sponsored the Bar Mitzva a famous gaon with whom he remained relocated in Kharkov.” to the many people who were killed seuda and bought him a pair of Tefillin close. Another friend was the famous during the famous siege of Leningrad, mehudorim. tomim Reb Avrohom Elya Akselrod. In 1924, the yeshiva in Kharkov was hundreds of thousands of citizens died Their correspondence was filled with closed, and the students left for Ros- of hunger and cold. Bodies were piled In the following years, Reb Zalman Shi- expressions of mutual warmth and tov. In 1924, at the end of the winter, in the streets. Reb Zalman Shimon, a mon reached the “Zal” where the older feeling. Reb Akselrod later settled in the Rostov yeshiva closed, and the member in Chevra Kaddisha, would bochurim studied, and he excelled not Baltimore, MD where he was the Rav Rebbe moved to Leningrad. TheR ebbe bring the bodies to the cemetery. When only in his studies but in his personality in his community. requested that a group of six bochurim the siege was finally over,R eb Zalman which was characterized by sincerity should remain in Rostov and study Shimon, his wife and other refugees, and modesty. People would describe During World War I and the Russian shechita. swollen from hunger and little more him as an extremely pnimiusdicke revolution, destruction, chaos, hun- then skin and bones, were removed person and not in vain did he merit ger and sickness reigned throughout While studying in the yeshiva in from Leningrad. kiruvim and praise from the Rebbe the whole country. When the Rebbe Lubavitch, Reb Zalman Shimon was Rashab and the Previous Rebbe. Rashab and the Previous Rebbe moved instructed by the Rebbe Rashab to They were transported to SouthR ussia from Lubavitch to Rostov, the yeshiva study Halochos: Yore Deah, Choshen where they began to recuperate and Reb Zalman Shimon’s in remained without a means of support, Mishpat and Even Hoezer. He eventu- regain their strength. In 1943, after nigleh, Gemorah and Mishnah was and the students dispersed. Reb Zalman ally received Smicha, rabbinic ordina- much wandering, they settled in Samar- Reb Shmuel Borisover, known for his Shimon was among the students who tion, from great Rabbonim, amongst kand, where a large number of Anash depth and clear logic, and his mashpia remained in Lubavitch, and in 1918, them the famous Rogotchover Gaon, refugees lived. Reb Zalman Shimon in chassidus was Reb Shmuel Gronam, these students and the yeshiva moved Reb Yosef Rozin in Dwinsk. Although worked as a guard in a government whose explanations, insights, stories to Kremenshug, in 1920 to Rostov, and Reb Zalman Shimon was also an expert hospital. Communal leaders among and Farbrengens deeply rooted them- eventually, in 1921 to Poltova. in conducting circumcisions, as well as the Chassidim organized a Yeshiva selves in his soul. Their influence and being handy in many different areas, he Tomchei Tmimim, which began to impact lasted his entire life. Reb Zalman Shimon recalled, “After did not want to work as a Mohel. grow. There was a need for a Rosh they arrested the Previous Rebbe Yeshiva, and Reb Yona Kahan, who March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 5

lived in Tashkent at the time, came mental in rebuilding the Crown Heights questions to him, as well as those were the rightists and the leftists in to Reb Zalman Shimon’s house and Mikva. In addition, he instructed many with personal dilemmas that needed the higher heavens. The leftists did not farbrenged privately with him. In the different communities in the building a bright and caring individual to assist want to allow additional time [for me] morning, Reb Yona had reached his of Mikvos based on the Rebbe Rashab’s them. He was known for treating to live, but the rightists gave me another goal: Reb Zalman Shimon accepted guidelines. When a Rav or an organiza- every individual, no matter who he seven days.” the position of Rosh Yeshiva. tion objected, Reb Zalman Shimon or she was, with great sensitivity and was able to bring original sources and understanding. In matters of Sholom His relative did not understand his Reb Zalman Shimon traveled with the material to disprove them to the extent Bayis, families knew him as a practi- words, but it became clear to him when yeshiva to the Refugee camp of Wald- that they would retract their psak and cal and a compassionate advisor. The Reb Zalman Shimon was nifter exactly shtat Poking, Germany, and in 1948, approve Reb Zalman Shimon’s. Reb Rebbe once declared in public, “He is a week later. they all relocated to Brunoy, France. Zalman Shimon introduced features, my Moro D’Asra” (my Rav). such as filters, to attract new users to In 1985, on Motzoei Shabbos Parshas In 1950, a group of shochtim began to mikvoas in outlying communities. It is noteworthy to mention the spe- Ki-Siso, the 17th of Adar, he asked for a travel from Paris to Ireland to produce cial zechus of Reb Zalman Shimon, drink and made the brocho shehakol. It kosher meat for Jews in Israel. After the In matters of Kashrus, Rabbonim chosen by the Rebbe to represent him is mentioned in seforim that tzadikim first group left, another group arrived. from other communities received in 1981 at the siyum of the first Sefer would ask for something to drink Reb Zalman Shimon was appointed the guidance from Reb Zalman Shimon; Torah Hakloli for children in Israel. before their passing, in order to make Rav to supervise the whole operation. for example, nikur--how to remove the The siyum was followed by days of a brocho. forbidden chelev or fat from the meat commemoration. On Friday night, the 10th of Shvat of the animal. Reb Zalman Shimon was nifter close that year, Reb Zalman Shimon had a “Shlucho shel odom k’moso”, an emis- to midnight, and the levaya took place dream in which Rebbetzin Rivka, the Regarding dairy, Reb Zalman Shimon sary is as if the one who sent him was the next day. Many rabbinic dignitar- Previous Rebbe’s grandmother, rushed issued a verdict based on the Alter himself present. Reb Zalman Shimon ies came, paying their last respects to the Holy Ark, grabbed a Sefer Torah Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch that vessels participated as the Rebbe’s representa- to Reb Zalman Shimon. The Rebbe and left the room.R eb Zalman Shimon need to be kashered at 212 degrees, tive and was greeted with full honor. participated in the Levaya, and Reb awoke very disturbed. He knew that prior to using them for Cholov Yisroel Zalman Shimon was interred directly something terrible had happened in the milk. Recognized Rabbinical organiza- In Iyar 1976, Reb Zalman Shimon was behind the Holy . Previous Rebbe’s house. He was later tions follow this directive to this day. widowed. Although he remained alone informed that the Previous Rebbe was in his home, he adamantly refused any His modest personality and busy sched- nistalek on Shabbos morning. Today, many Lubavitcher Rabbonim offer of help. As he aged and became ule of community affairs prevented throughout the world use the Halachic unwell, his workload remained undi- Reb Zalman Shimon from publishing In 1953, Reb Zalman Shimon and his rulings that Reb Zalman Shimon issued minished. He dedicated himself even his halachic verdicts and his insights wife arrived in the United States and as their guide. more to the community and especially on the Torah. They remained as notes were invited by Reb Sholom Posner, to the Rebbe’s matters, remaining an in the margins of his Shulchan Aruch. the Previous Rebbe’s Shliach in Responsa that he issued still need to be Pittsburgh, and a close friend of prepared for publishing Reb Zalman Shimon, to settle in Pittsburgh, AP , where he was Reb Zalman Shimon was gifted with appointed as the magid shiur in the a phenomenal memory. The stories highest grade of the Yeshiva Achei and events in the history of Chabad Tmimim. Over the course of the remained with him. In fulfilling the years, many Torah scholars from Rebbe’s request for a written record different circles were niskarev to of his memoirs, Reb Zalman Shimon him, connecting to him through his compiled a vast amount of topics shiurim in nigleh and Chassidus. and stories, of which some have been Thanks to his warm relationship published. Sefer Shmuos v’Sipurim with every individual, he was suc- contains a significant amount of stories, cessful in being mekarev them in and additional writings were published a pleasant way and greeting them in the sefer “Kovetz Razash,” which graciously at all times. contain some of his stories and Halachic responses. In 1960, Reb Zalman Shimon moved to Brooklyn. A large Lubavitch Next week: A few hours of the Rav’s community was present in Crown long day. Heights. Schools had been created for boys and girls, and many central With Reb mosdos for spreading Yiddishkeit were established. With the growth of It is difficult to describe how far reaching inward chossid connected and devoted the community, there was need for a was his Rabbonus and the many areas to the Rebbe with the core of his soul. G-d fearing Rav of unique Torah and it encompassed. Reb Zalman Shimon One of the last statements he uttered On The Front Page: Halachic stature. It was vital that he attended to the needs of a large and before his petira was, “However it have experience in Kashrus, Mikvaos expanding community, which included was and how it will be, I can say that I Group picture: and would be able to issue Halachic advising and finding solutions for the worked with all my energy; in the day verdicts on the complicated questions problems of the youth and for the many [the heat] consumed me and at night Left to right - : Y. Hendel, S. arising from the new developments of couples, newly niskarev to Yiddishkeit [there was frost which deprived my Posner, Krieger, P. Hirshprung, the the time. and living in Crown Heights. Reb sleep]”. This alludes to the expression Rashag, M.P. Katz, Mayor Beame, JJ Zalman Shimon also traveled widely, of our forefather Yaakov describing Hecht, ZS Dworkin, Yosef Goldstein, This included counseling and advising visiting Chabad Houses and assist- the tiring work for many years that he Yosef Weinberg, Mordechai Harlig, of families who found themselves in ing Shluchim in building Mikvaos, toiled in the house of Lavan (Breishis , Yaakov Hoffman, and problematic situations. Kashrus, and many other issues. 31:40). Lindenbaum. Reb Zalman Shimon merited serving In addition, Reb Zalman Shimon Reb Zalman Shimon became very ill. This picture was taken in theR ashag’s in the last several decades of his life as acted as the Rebbe’s agent in many A week before Reb Zalman Shimon’s office in the early 1970’s at a dedica- the Rav and Moro D’Asra of Lubavitch confidential matters that the Rebbe petira, he was visited in the hospital by tion of the new Lubavitcher Yeshiva in Crown Heights. accomplished through Reb Zalman a relative. His illness was already at an on Ocean Parkway Shimon. The Rebbe was very fond of advanced stage. Reb Zalman Shimon, Reb Zalman Shimon was very involved Reb Zalman Shimon and would refer who was napping, suddenly woke up in building Mikvaos. He was instru- people with complicated halachic and said in an excited voice, “There 6 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008

Purim

Text of a Purim Rebbe’s direc- Purim 5739 (1979) What lesson can it teach?” This question can be answered by Message by The tives for Purim Published and copyright © by Sichos In posing another question. Three people English Rebbe on Friday attended the wine party described in the Megillah: Haman, Achashveirosh, (adapted from Chabad.org) 1. Translator’s note: The Rebbe Shlita Purim “Solidarity with and Esther. Of those three, Haman opened this farbrengen in a different Jerusalem” and Achashveirosh were both in high On the festival of Purim, when we all manner than he usually does. He stated, spirits, yet Esther had to beg for her listen carefully to the reading of the [Adapted from Likutei Sichos vol. 21 “Since it’s Purim, rather than begin with life. Was this just? Particularly after Megillah and ponder upon the story pg. 490] a talk, we’ll begin with a niggun (song).” Esther had demonstrated her dedica- it tells us, let us all remember a few The Chassidim followed by singing tion to her people--should she have important details and facts that took When Purim falls out on Friday, in the Purim niggun, and the Rebbe led been subjected to such circumstances: place in those days at this time: Yerusholayim the holy city, the joy and everyone in a long and vigorous round How could the Jews, particularly after commemoration of Purim is extended of hand clapping. Afterwards, he contin- they had attained the spiritual level of There arose a Haman, who issued a until the following Sunday with the ued, “The custom of drinking wine on “Yehudi” (the term with which they decree to murder and destroy all Jews seuda, the Purim rejoicing, and Shlach Purim is a Law (Rabbinical). Therefore, were referred to in the Megillah) be at a fixed date. manos, etc. everyone should say ‘L’Chaim’ now threatened by a decree calling for their (exclusively on wine).” Then theR ebbe total extinction? Queen Esther then calls upon Morde- Immediately at the outset of the golus, said “L’Chaim” himself and drank a cup chai to “gather all the Jews and fast” and with the destruction of the first Bais of wine. Afterwards he remarked, “‘Nu,’ Wine provides us with a lesson which then she would go and plead with the Hamikdosh, Jews took upon themselves time is being wasted. Say L’Chaim. I answers these questions. The Torah King to rescind the terrible decree. not to forget Yerusholayim, remember- would like to suggest that someone regards wine very highly. Psalms ing her and mentioning her on all joyous who can speak English announce Hurry describes wine as “rejoicing both Mordechai thereupon goes and gathers occasions as King David mentioned in Up! Everyone should now say L’Chaim G-d and man.” It was considered an tens of thousands of Jewish children his Psalms (chapt. 137:5-6). a second time.” honored drink in Persia as well. Due and teaches them the Torah; he teaches to that importance, Achashveirosh felt them the procedure of offering the Therefore, it would be very appropriate The announcement was made and it appropriate that Esther tell him her Omer when the Beit-Hamikdash would that Jews everywhere should increase the Rebbe continued; “Since once request at a wine-party. be rebuilt. on the Sunday of Parshas Shmini something has been done three times, with many aspects of joy: in words of Halachah considers it a surety; there- Wine is not found naturally. Wine is All the children are so enchanted by Torah which make the heart rejoice, fore, everyone should say L’Chaim a contained in grapes and released when the new spirit that Mordechai had to make Jews rejoice permeated with third time.” the grapes are squeezed. If the grapes inculcated into them, that even facing loving a fellow Jew, and if necessary - are of high quality, they produce wine the danger of death, they exclaim: ‘We through Shlach Monos and Matonos He paused and continued, “This would after only slight pressure. If they’re of stick with Mordechai and the Torah - for Lo’evyonim, gifts for the poor, and have been sufficient for the other festi- a lower quality, you have to squeeze life or death!’ especially by making gatherings for the vals. However, on Purim the celebration harder to extract the wine. Of course, purpose of strengthening Yiddishkeit, must be ‘Od-d’lo-yada’ — totally the squeezing is not intended as a In that very same day the decree permeated with the Yerusholayim beyond all bounds. Therefore, everyone negative action but rather to elevate becomes null and void. Haman’s down- spirit, as our sages explain that the name should say L’Chaim a fourth time and the grapes to a higher state. Grapes fall is already assured, and the Jews are “Yerusholayim” ( ) is an acronym afterwards ‘all those who add on — are do not have the qualities of “rejoicing ירושלים saved, even though they learn of it only for Yireh Shlema ( ), full fear to be praised accordingly.’ L’Chaim.” ,G-d and man,” only wine. Therefore יראה שלימה after a number of months. of Hashem. wine requires a different and special He paused and continued again; “In brocha. This added quality is produced The experience of our fathers is a lesson In particular, making children rallies, this case, the principle ‘When in doubt through taking the grapes and squeez- to us all. being that each child, including infants, follow the stricter opinion,’ applies. If ing them. are members of . someone is unsure whether he said Let us remember that one of the chief L’Chaim four times or not, he should The above serves as a parable explain- means of frustrating the Hamans of our All this should be permeated with true do so again now. L’Chaim Ul’borcha.” ing the position of the Jewish people. time, bring about their downfall, and joy, as it is stated in the end of Shulchan Then the Rebbe led the Chassidim What was the purpose of Haman, bring light and joy to our people is: Aruch, Orach Chaim, Hilchos Purim, in the singing of his father’s Hakafos Achashveirosh, and the entire decree? “A good heart always rejoices.” Niggun. To squeeze the grapes, to bring out TO GATHER JEWISH CHILDREN the “wine” held within each and every AND TEACH THEM TORAH AND All this is based on the above-mentioned 2. The Talmud prescribes, A“ person Jew. Then the Jewish people showed a YIDDISHKEIT! theme to unite with Yerusholayim, must become drunk of Purim.” Rashi complete and total dedication to G-d, which to her we turn every day in prayer comments that he must drink wine. to the point of self-sacrifice. Our Sages To tell them that the true and complete (as King Solomon said): “They will What is the reason for this law? One considered their level of service then to redemption really lies in our own pray to Hashem by way of the city that of the answers usually given is that be higher than at the time of Receiv- hands, for as soon as we Jews return you chose,” that Hashem has chosen the miracle of Purim is closely con- ing of the Torah at Mt. Sinai, as the to G-d in complete repentance, we and inherited to each Jew and every nected with wine. Many of the crucial Gemorah comments, “They affirmed are redeemed immediately, by our Jew – forever. episodes of the Megillah happened at (at Purim) what they accepted before Righteous Messiah. wine-parties. (at the Giving of the Torah).” We should merit that as in the time To tell them further, that our Holy of Mordechai and Esther there was That answer merely shifts the question To emphasize this idea, the celebration Beit-Hamikdash will be rebuilt soon, light, happiness, joy and honor with on to the Megillah. Everything that of Purim is connected with wine. From and we must all be worthy and prepared all its meanings, so this redemption happens is controlled by G-d, and G-d then on Purim is celebrated with much to serve our G-d in the Holy Sanctuary. should connect with the upcoming does not create anything without a happiness and will continue as a festival On the day when the Jewish children true and complete redemption through purpose. Since the purpose of a Jew’s forever. So shall it be for us. May the are imbued with this spirit and are Moshiach Tzidkenu. life is the service of G-d, it follows that Jews have “light, happiness, joy, and ready to exclaim - “We remain with G-d directs everything that happens honor.” thee, our Torah, for life or death” - on [All the references appear in Likutei Sichos to him. Therefore, everything which that very day, our Torah assures us, all vol. 21 pg. 490]. a Jew sees or hears must serve as a the Hamans will be defeated, and all lesson for him in his service to G-d. Jews will have ‘light, gladness, joy, and Since we see the correlation between respect,’ speedily in our time. the Purim miracles and wine, we must immediately search for a conceptual understanding of that relationship, asking ourselves, “Why is it important? March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 7

Rabbi Hecht, is chairman of the board of the National Committee for advice from our clergy when there are was actually quite shaky. I told him to the Furtherance of (NCFJE), continuing the tradi- questions or differences - especially in go out, buy his wife a nice card telling tion of social services management and outreach that began with his the practical areas of life where most her how special he thinks their relation- father, the Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht A’H. He is a Rabbi and activist in the couples hit problems - for example ship is, and mail it to her. Knowing Jewish community, focusing on family crisis intervention, guiding and with leisure time activities, finances, how busy he was, I impressed upon advising troubled youth and their families, marriage counseling, and drugs and cults counseling and consultations. He can be reached at children and communication. him the importance of purchasing [email protected]. • the card himself and not leaving it to Rabbi Some of the smaller things we can do to his secretary. He followed my advice, strengthen our relationships - smaller, bought the card and sent it. About but no less effective or appreciated - are two weeks later, I was at his home, and On Relationships to write nice notes expressing apprecia- his wife showed me the card that her If you desired to do something unex- year would surely give us longer lasting tion and affection or to go out together husband bought her. pected to show appreciation to your dividends than a one time gift. to eat, without waiting for a special life time partner, what would you do? If occasion. One couple I know takes a I asked her, “Tell me, your husband gave you are like most people, you’re think- How can we put the gift of relation- ‘children-free’ night out once a month you two things in the past few weeks, a ing jewelry, chocolates or expensive ships to practical use? We can start by to rejuvenate their relationship. Others necklace worth close to $50,000.00 and dinners! These things are heavily acknowledging and devoting ourselves take walks together so they can spend a card that cost him $2.50. Which one advertised as proper expressions of to work on all the different connections some uninterrupted time talking with means more to you?” Surprisingly, she affection and appreciation.W hile such in a relationship - the emotional con- each other. answered, “I don’t know. Let me think gifts are very thoughtful, they are also nection, spiritual connection, physical about it.” Imagine that! A woman can superficial; there are other ways to connection, and intellectual connection even equate the two, one worth almost show our appreciation with which we - one at a time. Each time we commit $50,000.00 and one worth closer to can create more lasting and meaningful ourselves to work on one of these links Though it’s hard to imagine that it’s the $.50, and have to think about which is results. in our relationships, it is a separate gift small but personal touch that counts, I worth more! to our partner. have a friend that can vouch for it. My All relationships are infinite and have friend is, thank G-d, well off financially. Obviously, the message commercials many different levels. No matter how Another idea would be to give our For his 18th wedding anniversary, he give us - that gifts have to cost money long a couple is together and no mat- ‘significant other’ the gift of long-term made a lavish party and presented to properly express love - is a false one. ter which point their relationship is relationship courses or ‘couple week- his wife with a necklace set with 18 Meaningful gifts are those of time at, it can be improved with a stronger ends’. If time is an issue, a couple could diamonds. It was a very beautiful gift, spent giving to our relationships. If we connection. Even a happy couple can agree to attend individual classes which and it certainly wasn’t cheap. would use our ‘gift giving moments’ to learn to do more of the correct things in focus on marriage skills. strengthen our relationships and create greater depth. Many small, meaningful Soon after the anniversary party, my more spiritual depth, it can be a gift that acts of caring and love throughout the Yet another idea is to agree to ask friend confided in me that his marriage lasts a lifetime.

PURIM SAFETY FROM SHOMRIM & NYPD This year, as Purim falls on a Friday, everyone is going to be on a tight schedule and rushing to complete deliveries of Mishloach Manot as early as possible. As we all know, there are a lot of children running in the streets on Purim. If at all possible, do not double park as it makes it harder to see a child darting in the street Chas V'Sholom. • Absolutely do not park by a hydrant. Police will not tolerate cars blocking hydrants, and they will ticket. • Any child using a imitation gun as part of their costume has to have the barrel painted fluorescent yellow, pink or orange. A Happy Purim from the 71st Precinct and Shomrim 8 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 Shiduchim

Torah stresses that a single standard Yiddishkeit thrived and flourished, so Vedibarta Bam ~ Marriage of values must be maintained. Thus, make sure that af bemasa’ot — also we say a few times a day in the Shema in the new neighborhood you will that the same Torah applies and should be trailblazers and see to it that the By Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky The Midrash R( abbah Vayikra 7:5) be taught to posterity “Beshivtecha standards are no less than what you observes that the Mizbei’ach — Altar bebeitecha” — “When you sit in your were accustomed to. Our holy Torah is timeless. It is not — of Moshe’s Tabernacle was used home” and also “Belechtecha baderech” limited to any specific time, place, or for about 116 years, and was relocated — “When you are going on the road.” Finally, there is one more message circumstance. Yet, there are certain to various places. So even when the I want to impart, which is more of a commandments that were in effect only Mizbei’ach was in motion and in the This, in essence, is the message of the blessing than a message. Our holy texts when we had the Mishkan — Taberna- midst of traveling, the fire constantly commandment. We are instructed that equate the Mizbei’ach with the heart of cle — or in the Beit Hamikdash. Since, burned on it. “the flame on the Mizbei’ach should a person. It is the place that is analogous unfortunately, we lack the Temple be kept glowing and burning brightly to the fire on theA ltar — our emotions service today, we do not practice some Permit me to share with you the impli- af bemasa’ot” — not just when we are are glowing in their full strength. As of these laws. Nevertheless, we con- cations of this law in many facets of our home but also when removed from it. you stand under the Chuppah there is tinue studying them in anticipation of life as a message to you, dear Chatan a fire of love for one another burning in Mashiach at which time we will have and Kallah. To you, my dear loving couple, I your hearts. To you, dear Chatan, your the third Beit Hamikdash. also stress a few aspects where this Kallah is the most important person in The problems resulting from double applies. the world and you will do anything and Moreover, regardless of the contempo- standards are serious ones. O how many everything for her, and vice versa: You, rary relevance of the literal meaning people act one way on the outside and You have merited to have seen a vibrant dear Kallah, have the same reciprocal of the Torah verses, we derive lessons differently on the inside!Y ou know and Judaism in your childhood homes and feelings for your Chatan. from the law and its particulars, that I know of people who run strictly kosher schools. Make sure that af bemasa’ot — are applicable at all times. homes but who are lax when eating out now when you move out of your parent’s May it be G‑d’s will, that the warmth, or on vacation, etc. There are people homes, the same warmth and fervor for love, dedication and admiration burn- One such example is a commandment who are meticulously observant with Torah and Yiddishkeit you were taught ing this very moment so brightly within in the Parshah of Tzav that states “The the rituals in shul but who have a differ- should be present in the home you will your respective Altars — hearts — fire on the Altar shall be kept burning ent set of rules and halachot when out in be establishing and practiced by you in continue on with the same vitality af on it; it shall not be extinguished” the world of business. Unfortunately, a the world that you will be living in. bemasa’ot — throughout the journey (6:5). The Jerusalem Talmud Y( oma person, at times, may be the paragon of of life that you are embarking upon 4:6) comments “af bemaso’ot” — “also virtue, morality and devotion in his own An American tendency is for young together “biz 120.” while they traveled.” community, but maintain a second set couples to move to new developing of standards when “on the road.” communities. In the old neighborhood,

environment in which we live. To give Finding A Needle in a Haystack ladies. One shadchan’s opinion of the a few examples, having a sibling with a problem is that boys are much more By: Sarah Junik yes. All that has to be discovered by the seizure disorder or mental retardation marketable than the girls because of couple is if they have an affinity for each does not mean that a person will have a Continuing on the subject of research the PERCEPTION that there are more other. (I’ll return to the subject later child with either of these conditions. eligible girls than boys in the chareidi Like every thing else, just mentioning when we discuss dating.) community (Would the Eibishter make “Some conditions are acquired because the word shiduchim research in a group, On the other hand, overkill in research such a mistake as to have more boys of a difficult birth or subsequent acci- will bring conflicting and contradictory is not conducive to a good result. We than girls?). So, a boy can have a serious dent or illness, for instance, and not in opinions. Everyone knows the story of have previously discussed some inap- condition, and he will get a shidduch. any way genetic. Others follow a com- the Rov who was presented a case, and propriate questions. Another example And the girl? She can have a pimple, plex pattern of inheritance, involving after the first side speaks, he agrees with of an unsuitable question would be: and she won’t! It’s the law of supply combinations of many different genes. him. Then when the second side speaks, What kind of car do the parents drive? and demand. How sad that we reduce In addition, and most significantly, he agrees with him, so his wife asks him, It might indicate the financial level of creating a new branch of Klal Yisroel Hakadosh Baruch Hu has given us “How can they both be right?”, and he the family, but there are better and more to a marketplace transaction! advanced medical technology that responds to her, “You are also right!” direct ways to find that out. provides effective treatment for some Dr. Ilana Mittman wrote an article on So it is with research: there are those afflictions, like diabetes and hyperten- Someone said that unfortunately, we are genetics and shidduchim 101. Here are who say there is not enough research sion, and cures for others.” living in a culture that makes more of some excerpts from her article: done and that is why later problems defining a person by the subcategories “The bottom line is that none of us is may arise, and they are right. On the “Some may think that a woman bears of subcategories which they fit into ‘genetically flawless’. It is a fact that all other hand, there are those that say the child and is therefore solely respon- than by the nobility of their character. of us, regardless of our ‘stellar’ family that research has gotten out of hand, sible for the health of the progeny. This is indeed a sad state of affairs. medical history, carry a few deleterious and people ask questions that have no Nothing could be further from the And this is what we should avoid doing genes, whether we know it or not, which relevance to the character of the person truth! The term “it takes two to tango” in our research. Don’t ask question may never be expressed. Virtually all of in question--they are also right. I guess certainly works in the genetic world. to categorize people; ask questions us have a family history for at least one they can both be right. Both parents pass on their genetic that will reveal their personality and of the following: heart disease, diabetes, endowment equally to the next gen- Research is the parents’, mashpia’s, or character. hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, and eration. Each one of us carries about advisor’s job to do. If a girl or boy does certain cancers. An important aspect of research is 50,000 genes (units of heredity) on 23 not have a family to back them, then health. Not just the boy’s/girl’s health, pairs of chromosomes. A child inherits It is also a fact that two to three out of they should ask someone to help them but the family’s physical and mental half of his or her genetic material from every 100 newborn babies will have with this stage. Research can prevent health. This is not an easy thing to the mother and half from the father. some kind of a birth defect – most all sorts of problems later on. Make research, and you might not feel com- commonly, a heart defect. The vast sure the character presented is truly “It is essential, too, to remember that, fortable asking questions about this, majority of these cannot be predicted the character that is (as we showed while genes are certainly important to but it is nevertheless a very important by family history, and many of them last week). When the couple meets, it what we become, they work along with subject. Be aware that certain condi- are not genetic.” should be just to make sure they have the environment. Unlike Tay-Sachs tions are not genetic, and therefore a connection and are on the same disease and certain other conditions More on this subject next week. have no bearing on the future children wavelength. They should enjoy talking that are passed directly from parents the couple will have. If you are not sure Any constructive comments are to each other and be able to relate to to children in a simple fashion, most about a particular condition, consult welcomed by the editor. Write to each other. Going out should not be conditions pertaining to health are with the family doctor. CHP5768 @gmail.com or directly to about research. All that should be done governed by a host of genes that interact the author at [email protected]. in advance. That is how it is possible for Unfortunately, scrutiny on health issues with one another – and most impor- a couple to go out 5 or 8 times and say tends to be more rigorous for young tantly, interact with and respond to the March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 9 10 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 CHJCC

Call The MEGILLAH READING AT THE SHALOM CENTER Please Join Us at Shalom Senior Center CHJCC THE SHALOM SENIOR CENTER For An ELDER CRAFTSMEN IS HAPPY TO ANNOUNCE THAT 718~778~8808 “Artist in Residence” Project ONCE AGAIN THIS YEAR WE Funded by a grant from the Dept. for the Aging CHILD/FAMILY HEALTH and the Dept. of Cultural Affairs WILL HAVE THE MEGILLAH INSURANCE READING ON PURIM MORNING, TH ENTITLEMENT SERVICES FRIDAY MARCH 14 Stepping Forward, Looking Back

Rivka Shur...... ext. 24 10:00AM SHARP. A Creative Journey Portfolio

Eliezer Yarmush...... ext. 30 EVERY ONE OF ALL AGES IS Using music, writing (poetry & storytelling), drawing, painting, collage and VOCATIONAL COUNSELING & WELCOME TO HEAR THE other media you will “look back” through a guided creative journey of your life, experience and culture, and “step forward” by producing a SERVICES MEGILLAH READING. portfolio of creative works that will be shared with the community. !!!!ʭʩʸʥʴ ʯʫʲʬʩʩʸʴ ʠ In addition to the core group of workshop participants, the general Rivka Shur...... ext 24 membership of the senior center is invited to participate in the writing and Bela Vilenkin...... ext. 23 music workshops during the first four weeks. This project will culminate in a music and/ or storytelling performance at a local library or community center. The finished Portfolios will be exhibited FOOD STAMPS as well. A reception will be held for the artists.

Eliezer Yarmush...... ext. 30 When: 12 Tuesdays: April 1, 8, 15, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 27; FAMILY SERVICES June 3, 17 Phyllis Mintz ...... ext. 28 Time: 10:15 am – 12:15 pm The HEAP Program AP ARTMENT LISTINGS FREE to the seniors and the senior center Penina Metal...... ext. 21 Is finished for this year To sign up please call the Shalom center, or if you have CRIME VICTIMS at the CHJCC any questions, please contact Jenya or Shimon at (718) 774-9213. Batia Brandel ...... ext. 22 If you need to register you will have to [email protected] go to 98 Flatbush Avenue. (c) 917~618~0279 Galina Pindrick...... ext. 31 718~771~9000 FEMA Fruma Junik ext. 10 718~774~3999 YAM~ Youth Action Movement Yosef Kanofsky March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 11 Parshas Hashavua

find three other words chanted with a yeitzer hara, but if he sees that “vayit- shalshelet: mahmah” — the yeitzer hara lingers Vedibarta Bam ~ Tzav on and does not want to give up — By Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky ad haboker” — the entire period of 1) When the angels told Lot to leave the “vayomar” — he should begin to study .galut until the break of dawn. When city of Sodom, we are told “vayitmah- divrei Torah and recite the Shema “זאת תורת העלה הוא העלה על מוקדה dawn breaks and the light of the Beit mah” — “and he lingered” (Bereishit But if “vayema’ein” — the yeitzer על המזבח כל הלילה עד הבקר ואש Hamikdash begins to shine for the 19:16). hara still refuses to give up — then המזבח תוקד בו” Jewish people, it will not be sufficient “vayishchat” — he should inform the 2) When Eliezer went to find a suitable “This is the law of to simply study about karbanot but yeitzer hara that Hashem will slaughter wife for Yitzchak, he prayed and we the burnt-offering: “ve’eish hamizbei’ach tukad bo” — one it one day — and upon hearing this the are told “vayomar” — “and he said” it is the burnt- must actually bring karbanot to be yeitzer hara will stop pestering the Jew (Bereishit 23:12). .to violate the Torah (שער בת רבים) .offering which shall burnt on the altar )בית יעקב מר’ יעקב הכהן ע”ה טראב When the wife of Potifar wanted (3 “ובשר זבח תודת שלמיו ביום קרבנו remain on the fire - מסלתון( Yosef to commit a sin, the Torah says יאכל” all night until the “ויעש אהרן ובניו את כל הדברים אשר ”morning, and the “vayema’ein” — “and he refused צוה ה’ ביד משה” .(fire of the altar “And the flesh of the sacrifice of his (Bereishit 39:8 should be kept aflame on it.” (6:2) thanksgiving peace-offerings; on the What connection is there between day of his offering it shall be eaten.” “And Aharon and his sons did all the QUESTION: 1) Why does it say “Zot these four expressions sung with a (7:15) things which G‑d commanded through torat ha’olah” — “This is the law of shalshelet? Moshe.” (8:36) the burnt-offering”? 2) The words “hi QUESTION: Usually an offering of ANSWER: The Gemara (Berachot ha’olah” are superfluous. lesser sanctity (kadashim kalim) such QUESTION: Rashi writes, “This 5a) says that a person should incite as the karban shelamim — peace offer- declares their praise that they did not ANSWER: In the time of the Beit his yeitzer tov against his yeitzer hara ing — may be eaten for two days and turn (deviate) to the right or to the left.” Hamikdash, a Jew was able to actu- (declare war against the yeitzer hara), one night; Why is the karban todah — What kind of praise is this for such ally bring a live animal as a karban to and if he manages to overcome the thanksgiving peace-offering — limited distinguished spiritual luminaries, that be offered on the altar. In addition, yeitzer hara it is good, but if not he to only one day and the succeeding they fulfilled the will of Hashem? whoever studies the Torah laws about should engage in the study of Torah. night? the burnt-offering is considered to If this does not defeat the yeitzer hara, ANSWER: Often when a person is actually have brought a burnt-offering ANSWER: A thanksgiving peace- then he should recite the Shema, and if asked to be a sheliach tzibur — commu- (see Menachot 110a). This is derived offering is brought in recognition of a he is still not successful then he should nity representative — or deliver a Torah from the words “torat ha’olah.” miracle that was done by Hashem on remind the yeitzer hara of the day of thought, he humbly shakes his head, behalf of the individual. Miracles hap- death. expressing a sense of unworthiness. By The darkest period in Jewish history pen daily and continuously, as we say According to commentaries, the “day of moving his head to the right and to the is galut — being in exile deprived of in the Amidah, “and for your miracles death” does not re­fer to the individual’s left, he is in effect saying, “Who am I the Beit Hamikdash. This period is which are with us daily.” Limiting the passing, which the yeitzer hara strives to perform such a prominent task?” In compared to “lailah” — night. When time when the karban todah may be for since he is also the angel of death reality, however, they are proud that the Jews have a Beit Hamikdash, their eaten teaches us that each day one (Bava Batra 16a). It is referring to they were asked and are anticipating lives are luminous, and such a period should be aware of and appreciate the dictum of the Gemara (Sukkah being approached again before giving is referred to as “boker” — morning. the new miracles Hashem constantly 52a) that in the future Hashem will their consent. The Torah is teaching us that “zot performs on his behalf. slaughter the yeitzer hara. Therefore, The praise of Aharon and his children )ר’ אברהם מרדכי זצ”ל מגור( torat ha’olah” — “this is the law of the the Gemara is saying that if one’s yeitzer burnt-offering.”W hen one studies these was that when they received a com- hara is manifesting itself, “yazkir lo “וישחט...” laws — “hi ha’olah” — it is as though mand, they immediately set out to do yom hamitah” — one should remind one is actually making a sacrifice on “And he slaughtered...” (8:23) it without moving their heads “to the him that he is going to be slaughtered the altar. right and to the left,” demonstrating QUESTION: The “trop” (cantillation) and that he should not be too proud of pseudo-humility and expecting to be It is important, however, to remember on this word is a shalshelet — a three- himself. (חתם סופר) .asked again that this is sufficient only “kol halailah tiered tremolo tone. In the Torah we A person must strive to restrain his

reconcile these two types of service: be celebrated each year in a new man- The Rebbe’s Sicha: Tzav 5744 the element of newness should be ner. And when it is celebrated in such a Published and copyright © by Sichos In English present every day, all day. introduced into constant, unchanging manner, its concepts are repeated each service; and new service should be year, as it is written: “These days shall There are directives to be learned from Parshas Tetzaveh, in contrast, talks of durable. be remembered and kept” — through the parshah - parshas Tzav. the kindling of the menorah. Although the proper remembrance, the days of the term “constant” is used to describe These two aspects of constancy and “Tzav” and “Tetzaveh” both mean Purim are reenacted anew. this service — “to keep the lamp con- newness are emphasized on Purim, the “Command.” The difference between stantly burning” (Shmos 27:20) — this theme of which is “they kept what they Simultaneously, this must be done is the two is that “Tzav” emphasizes the means only night after night. had already accepted.” This comprises a constant manner, meaning that this idea of urgency, as Rashi comments two points: lesson applies not just to this year, but (Vayikra 6:2): “‘Tzav’ denotes only This year is a leap year.W e have spoken to all years, although they are not leap ‘urgency’ — for the present and for at previous occasions of the theme of a 1) a new acceptance; years. [future] generations.” That is, “Tzav” leap year, which reconciles the solar and 2) acceptance of Matan Torah — some- stresses the concepts of urgency and lunar years: In man’s spiritual service, thing which had been always Present. Because “deed is paramount,” we must eternality (“for generations”). the solar year corresponds to durable, increase mightily — in a new manner Likewise, there are aspects to the way unchangeable service (like the sun’s — in all the matters of Purim, espe- This difference between the two parshas Purim is celebrated each year: light), while the lunar year corresponds cially the Purim campaign, enabling — that Tzav stresses the element of to new service (like the moon’s light 1) With the greatest joy, — i.e., every all our brethren to keep the mitzvos eternality — is reflected in their respec- which is constantly changing). Purim sees a new element of joy, tran- of Purim. tive contents. Parshas Tzav talks of the scending all limits; daily congregational offering offered Some aspects of service are the same [The Rebbe Shlita here spoke a sicha 2) this newness itself is constant and twice each day, once in the morning every day, for example, the recital of concerning the name of the Megillah eternal, as written: “These days of and once in the afternoon. The morning Shema and the text of the prayers. — “Megillas Esther” and explained Purim shall not pass from the Jews and sacrifice began the offerings of the day, Other aspects of service change and how this name describes the greatness their remembrance shall not cease from and the afternoon sacrifice was the day’s are new: Torah study in a manner of of the Jewish woman. The sicha was their seed.” Thus Purim, like a leap year, last offering. The conclusion of this constantly seeking new insights; and in delivered in connection to the “Week emphasizes the synthesis of the two passage is (Vayikra 6:6): “A constant prayer itself, although the text remains of the Jewish Woman,” which began at aspects of constancy and newness. fire shall be kept burning on the altar; it the same every day, a person’s needs Purim. The sicha has been published as shall not be extinguished.” Thus parshas for which he prays changes. The theme The lesson from a leap year is that a separate essay, titled “Esther — the Tzav talks of a constant, eternal matter, of a leap year in spiritual service is to Purim, which is an eternal matter, must Jewish Woman.”] 12 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 FELLOW JEW, IT’S UP TO YOU

to be activated by the rain while on hide in a cave, or seclude ourselves on water which represent the mystical Wind and Rain the surface drying up enough to allow top of a mountain, or even to conceal meanings of the Torah and one of the fruit and to ripen, birds to find their ourselves in a great solemn temple to ways that these waters must be spread By Moshe Nunez breakfast, cattle to move around, and achieve spirituality. The rain has to to the outside is by teaching the nations humans to be comfortable and free to go into the depth of the earth, but the in these essential and practical ways of Did you know that run around and do their business too. surface has to be normal for life to grow how to live good, wholesome, fulfilling, the Yidden are and thrive. In other words, we have to and G-dly lives. likened unto wind? The Gemara goes on to explain that just be very spiritual on the inside, but very Have you every as H-shem has spread the four winds practical on the outside. This is how the In addition to the charge of living our observed what of heaven around the earth so it could fruits of our soul ripen and we develop lives as practicing Jews, each and every happens right survive the rain, so too He has spread beautiful middos that bring goodness, one of us is imbued with a specific before it rains? us, the Jewish people to the four corners health, nourishment, and blessings to and individual mission to accomplish Have you noticed the wind that pre- of the world so it could endure. So, the world and to those around us. through the teaching, guiding, and ele- cedes the rain? The force of the wind just like it is impossible for the world vating of our gentile neighbors within removes leaves, twigs, and other debris to exist without winds (that make way Chassidus teaches us that water repre- our sphere of influence. I cannot do that no longer is attached to its source, for the rain, bring the clouds in the sents Torah and it is a sign of blessing your mission nor can you do mine. Like thus clearing the way for the rain to first place, and then dry to the surface as told to us by the . We the winds are spread to the four corners bathe, refresh, and revitalize earth, bringing normalcy after the rain falls), have already mentioned in the very first of the world, so have the Jewish people plants, animals, and humans alike. so is it impossible for the world to exist article of this series about the famous been spread everywhere for a blessing without Israel. answer that Moshiach gave the Baal and for the survival of the nations. In addition to making way for the rain, Shem Tov regarding his question of This is why we are spread throughout the wind actually brings the much Our sages teach that it is not good to when the master (Moshiach Tzidkeinu) the world, not as a punishment, but needed clouds to where they are needed learn Torah without an occupation would come. He answered: “When the for a magnificent purpose, which is in order to rain just in the right places (Pirkei Avot 2:2). Our instructions wellsprings of your wisdom spread to to illuminate the darkest corners of according to H-shem’s perfect plan. from the Abishter do not call for us to the outside…” These wellsprings are the world with the Torah of Truth. All this is before the rain falls, but does When meeting a fellow-Jew we should the wind have a function after the rain always exchange a word of Torah and has fallen? encourage each other. When meeting a non-Jew we should also share a word It certainly does and the explanations of the Torah that applies to the nations of this are found in Taanis 3b where the (Sheva Mitzvos Bnei Noach with all Gemara is in the middle of an intriguing their ramifications) and encourage discussion about the appropriate time Tue 3/25 that person to fulfill his/her mission of the year when to recite the blessing in life. This is not difficult at all. Just “mashiv haruach u’morid hageshem” be the Chassid that you are, let your (He makes the wind to blow and He ONE DAY SALE true self (Nefesh Elokis) be known, be makes the rain to fall) in the second enthusiastic, smile, show there is hope blessing of the Amidah. Albany Matza Bakery 460 Albany Ave for a better tomorrow by doing your best today. Throw coldkeit out the The Gemara asks, why do we even have door, and herald in an era of warmkeit to mention the wind? If we are asking Shleimos Matzos $14.75 in your life that will be visible to all, for rain, then let’s ask for rain…why even strangers. mention wind at all? The answer we Shworim Matzos $10.95 find is both obvious and clear: the wind Just as the wind blows away anything that comes after the rain is considered that is not attached to its source, part equally beneficial as the rain itself CASH & CARRY of our shlichus is to rectify and amend because in brings life back to normalcy. falsehoods and teachings that are The water is absorbed beneath the not attached to Toras Emes. Hence, surface of the earth, penetrating and we should be prepared to answer the energizing the life forces that await doubter, the confused, and the uncom- mitted. This makes way for H-shem’s Torah to rain down on a world that is thirsty for Truth. Who else will do it if not us? Can the Moslems, Christians, or Buddhists accomplish this? The philosophies and religions of the world have for long tried to fill the gap that only Israel can fill. May we fulfill our calling and prepare the way for H-shem’s final rainfall that will cause that “H-shem shall be King over the entire earth; on that day the H-shem’s name shall be One and His Name One” (Zechariah 14:9). Take a look around you and you will find someone that is ready for this rain shower of blessing and truth today and may all our efforts bring the long awaited and final Redemption for the world NOW! March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 13 Shleimus Haaretz

The Principles Underlying The Israel-Arab Conflict Peace For Peace Arabs make vociferous demands. Afraid danger to life is no longer a reason to of “cutting off our dialogue,” we make say, “No; no more,” what is? Published and copyright © by Sichos In in the history of Israeli-Arab relations concessions, agreeing to at least several English have concessions led to an attitude of of their claims. And shortly afterwards, It is high time we stopped merely conciliation and peace. Instead, the they demand more, explaining to us reacting and establishing our policies The proposition of exchanging land initial concessions have communicated and to the world at large that these in response to Arab claims. Instead, for peace is unheard of in the annals feelings of weakness and insecurity new claims are logical corollaries to the we have to be concerned with our own of history. Whenever has a nation that that have been exploited by the Arabs claims that we have already accepted. priorities. We have to know that there won territory in a defensive war sur- and have encouraged them to make are certain things that are simply not for rendered it to the very nations which further and more excessive demands. And there is a certain logic to their argu- sale. They will not be presented on the attacked it? Every retreat before pressure has called ment. After all, once Israel has accepted bargaining table. And this restriction is forth greater pressure to retreat even the basic premise that it is proper to not prompted by sentimental reasons; And will giving back land lead to peace? further. compromise its security to placate the it is simply that one does not take risks Let us look at the situation as it is. Never A pattern has been established: The Arabs, it is hard to draw red lines. If when lives are at stake.

the Previous Rebbe’s house and was and her resting place is in Tzfas. Adar Yahrzeits mekushar to the Rebbe. She was nifter This week we continue with the Yahrzeiten of people who lived in our shechuna. By in 1999, and her resting place is near 14th of Adar mentioning them, we come to “v’Hachai yiten el Libo”. We learn lessons from their the holy Ohel. Mrs. Soro Stock lives that we can incorporate into our own. This column includes the Yahrzeiten of the 11th of Adar through the 14th of Adar. Mrs. Chaya Soro Winner The daughter of Horav Hacho- sid Reb Shlomo Aharon The daughter ofH orav Hachosid Reb Men ist. He was born on the 14th of Nissan Kazarnovsky, she merited Yaakov, she was nifter in 1981.H er 1901 in Polotzk, Russia and was nifter to create and administer resting place is on Mt. Olives. 12th of Adar in 1977. His resting place is near the mosdos chinuch for girls, holy Ohel. spreading Yiddishkeit and Horav Hachosid Reb Chaim Zeidel 13th of Adar Chassidus in the United Solomon Horav Hachosid Mrs. Soro Rivka States and Canada. She Reb Yiz- Rosenblum was nifter in 1991, and The son ofH orav Hachosid Reb Avro- chok Gansburg her resting place is near hom Yitzchok Yaakov, he was nifter The daughter of Horav the holy Ohel. in 1986. His resting place is near the Hachosid Reb Arye Leib, The son of Horav holy Ohel. she was involved in commu- Mrs. Soro Hecht Hachosid Hatomim nal activities and helped many Horav Hachosid Reb Moshe Dov Ber, The daughter ofH orav Hacho- needy people. She was among the Hatomim Reb Yitz- he was born in Moscow in 1927 and sid Reb Yehoshua, she was nifter founders of the organization FREE chok Duber Ushpal nifter in 2006.H is resting place is near in 1957. Her resting place is near the for refugees from Russia and was nifter the holy Ohel. holy Ohel. in 1987. Her resting place is near the The son of Horav holy Ohel. Dear Readers: Hachosid Reb Shlomo Women Those who would like to have any of Elye, he was a Rosh Mrs. Zlata Wilshansky their relatives mentioned in the yahrzeit Yeshiva and dean in 11th of Adar The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb column, please email the name, father’s Yeshivas Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitch Alexander Sender Menkin, she was name, date of the petira and some details in Vilno. He served as Rosh Yeshiva Mrs. Chana Dvora Deitsch born in 1928. She was nifter in 1954, to [email protected]. A picture may and educator in the Lubavitch Yeshiva The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb be included. in Brooklyn and as a Rav in the shul Menachem Mendel, she was nifter in Anshei Lubavitch in Boro Park. He was 2000. Her resting place is near the one of the directors of the Lubavitch holy Ohel. Chevra Kadisha from the time of its foundation and was among the distin- Mrs. Malka Sheiner guished Lubavitcher Rabbonim. He was nifter in 1982, and his resting place The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb is near the holy Ohel. Moshe, she was nifter in 1997. Her resting place is near the holy Ohel. 13th of Adar Mrs. Mamele Keller Horav Hachosid Community Alert For Purim Hatomim Reb Shlomo The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb Shomrim has the following community alert for Yidden everywhere Shimanowitz Avrohom, she was nifter in 1986. Many people might be planning on spending this coming Shabbos/Purim The son of Horav The child Yehudis Abraham away from home. What they might not realize is that after they leave their Hachosid Reb Rafael, homes for Shabbos, people might leave Mishloach Manos outside their he was born in 1906 The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb doors for them. Please be aware that the last time Purim was on a Friday, in Lohoyusk and nifter Moshe Yaakov, she was nifter in 1967 many homes were burglarized because of this. in 1983. His resting place is near the and her resting place is near the holy holy Ohel. Ohel. Shomrim are urging all people to do the following: a) If you are delivering Mishloach Manos to a home close to Shabbos, and Horav Hachosid 12th of Adar they residents are not home - perhaps it would be safer not to leave it, and leave Hatomim Reb Cha- Mrs. Rivka Rochel Shiller them a voice-mail that you tried their home and they were not there. noch Hendel Lieber- man (Futerfas) The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb b) Arrange with a neighbor to ensure that the front of your doors are cleared Efraim Halevi, she was nifter in 2004. of all packages prior to the start of Shabbos. The son of Horav Hachosid Reb Mendel, Mrs. Zisle Maryasha Vile he studied in Tomchei Crown Heights Shomrim would like to wish everyone a Tmimim from 1913 to 1916 and was The daughter of Horav Hachosid Reb SAFE and a Freilichen Purim. instructed by the Rebbe to be an art- Mordechai, she merited to serve in 14 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008 Money Matters

The Tax Breaks and Opportunities of Working Out of Your Home How To Spend Money By Mordechai of your home (or other building) you subject to certain limits. One exception: Even if your home isn’t Schachter, Agent New use for business cannot be used for any your principal place of business, you York Life Insurance non-business purpose. Exceptions: You Plus, you generally can deduct, in full, may qualify to take deductions if you Company do not need to meet the “exclusive” expenses directly related solely to your regularly use part of if exclusively to provision if you use a portion of your business area. If you carpet or paint meet with clients, customers or patients. Thanks in large part to home to store inventory or product just your home office space, 100% of So, if you are a marketing consultant the spread of computers samples, or if your home is a day-care that expense can be deducted. You can with a downtown office plus an office and a growing desire facility. also deduct a percentage of your home in your home, you should be able to among Americans to be their own for the wear and tear resulting from the deduct expenses at both locations, if bosses, the number of home-based 2. The area must be used on a continu- operation of your business. you (a) routinely meet clients in your businesses in this country is on the ing basis for business purposes. You will home (say, at least once a week); and (b) rise. Millions of men and women have not meet the test if your business use The above is intended to provide a use that home office space exclusively “set up shop” in the spare bedroom, is only occasional or incidental, even if general overview of home office deduc- for business. offered child care from the home, you do not use that area for any other tion basics. There are often fine-print retreated to the studio over the garage, purpose. Declaring the unused attic details that need to be considered. So, How Much Can You Deduct? or simply called home their business your “office” won’t cut it. talk to your accountant before you headquarters. transform the family room into your The amount is based on the percentage 3. This must be your principal place of business’s “world headquarters.” To of space devoted to business vs. private If this describes you, you should know business. If you have more than one learn about how life insurance and use. Any reasonable method is accept- about the many tax benefits to which business location, including your home, other financial products can help you able. The most common involve either you may be entitled. Here are the you must figure out if your home is your meet your business and personal goals, measuring square feet or counting the basics.1 principal place of business. Note that please contact Mordy Schachter, Agent, number of rooms, based on which gives your home doesn’t have to be where you Life Insurance Company, at you the higher deduction. In addition to your regular business generate most of your income. So, if you (718) 915-3438. expenses, you can deduct a portion paint houses for a living, but use that For example, if you have five rooms in of your utilities, rent, depreciation, ten-square-foot-nook off the kitchen 1 The primary technical source for this your home, and use one for business, home insurance and repairs if you meet to regularly—and exclusively—keep article is IRS Publication 587, “Business your business percentage would be several technical requirements: your books, do job estimates, schedule Use of Your Home.” 20% (1 divided by 5). Or if your home meetings and order supplies, you can is 3,200 square feet and your office 1. You must regularly use a designated take the deduction, provided you have If you’d like information on the insur- is 15 by 25, (375 square feet), your part of your home exclusively for busi- no other fixed locations where you ance products that can help protect business portion comes to 12% (actu- ness. The key word is exclusive. You conduct substantial administrative your hard-earned assets, please contact ally 11.7%). This is the percentage of cannot make quilts in your living room and management activities of your Mordy Schachter, Agent, New York utilities, homeowner’s insurance, and while the kids play at your feet and business. Life Insurance Company, at (718) other home expenses you can deduct, expect to take a deduction. The portion 915-3438.

My Cup Overflows… By Penina Metal in a jeweler’s box.

It was erev Purim a few years ago. My No, it was a coral-colored schnapps husband returned home from work with glass with a dainty handle. Although a surprise for me. It was nondescript I have come across similar clear glass shaloch manos from a childhood ones over the years, I have never seen acquaintance of mine. The blue paper ones with the lovely coral hue that dis- bag included the usual piece of fruit, tinguishes it from the scores of others raisins, some mezonos and a jewelry that I have seen. box, of all things. It is part of a set of glazelach that her I knew what the box contained without Bubby, the Rebbetzin, a”h, used to serve being told, but I am getting ahead of the Kiddush wine in every Shabbos. myself….. I always felt so grown up when I was I was amazed that Vivian, who sent the given my own little glass of wine. I package, understood how much this gift always held the dainty handle carefully would mean to me. so that it would not break.

She was several years my senior. We To me, it is more than a glass cup. It never traveled in the same circles. Yet will always be associated in my mind our mutual connection was her zaidy, with the loving remembrance of my my “Uncle Rebbe,” zt’l, about whom I dear “Uncle.” wrote several articles ago. Now, only one glass remains from the Vivian included a card in which she set. mentioned renovating her kitchen and coming across this item. Knowing And many decades later, it now graces how much her zaidy meant to me, she my Shabbos table. wanted me to have it. This is one Shaloch Manos that I can So what was this special, surprise gift, never forget! that was really not a surprise to me at all? Was it a piece of jewelry, an heir- A Freilichin Purim to one and all! loom of some kind? After all, it came March 21, 2008 ~ crOWN heights 15 Health Interest

the body’s water supply is responsible breast cancer by 79%; 50% less likeli- The RAMBAM Lifestyle for and involved in nearly every bodily hood of developing bladder cancer). By Yaakov Bam time, with the support of my wife and process, including digestion, absorp- Are you drinking the amount of water my Nutritional Advisor, I learned to tion, circulation, and excretion. you should every day? The Rambam: stay at the support group meetings Water is also the primary transporter Health Tips for Your Good and really listen to what it is all about: “A wise man eats only of food throughout the body, so it Lifestyle lifestyle change. one dish or two, eat- is necessary for all functions in the Make yourself an offer you can’t refuse. ing only enough to “Once I realized that, I knew I had to body. Water helps maintain normal sustain him. This is exercise too in order to make the most body temperature, and it is essential Before starting to reach your next goal, alluded to in King of my dieting efforts. I use my treadmill for carrying waste material out of the offer yourself a promise like this: “If I Shlomo’s statement: for 60 minutes, five times a week. body. Therefore, replacing the water reach my goal this (day, week, month), I “The righteous man that is continually being lost is very will treat myself to a well-deserved (fill “Because of my new eating habits eats to satisfy his soul.”(Proverbs 13:25) important. in a reward here, but not a food reward).” and the exercise, of course, I started (Hilchos Deos 5.1) Think of something you want, such as losing weight! As the numbers on the To keep the body functioning properly, new sefer, new clothes, or even a deposit Success story scale went down each week, I felt pure it is essential to drink at least eight toward a larger reward. Be creative, set validation. What a pleasure it was to be 8-ounce glasses of quality water each Concerned about Mendel’s high blood up rewards for yourself frequently, and told by wife and friends that my clothes day. While the body cannot survive pressure, his doctor recommended him make sure you give them to yourself hung so loose on me that they looked without food for about forty days, the to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Mendel when you reach your goal. ridiculous. body cannot survive without water for lost weight and threw away his blood longer than 3 days. Be a SMART planner! pressure medication. “Are there still days when I go back to my old eating habits? Yes. But I’ve Water Facts SMART means being Specific, Mea- Mendel relates: “I’ve struggled with learned that a single day isn’t going sured, Appropriate, Realistic, and my weight since childhood. In my 75% of Americans are chronically to wipe away months of progress, so Time-bound about what you plan to early-thirties I had a very stressful life dehydrated. (Likely applies to half I continue my efforts, and the pounds achieve. For example, if your goal is to situation. The more stress I had, the world population.) are melting away.” increase your physical activity, write more I ate, and the more depressed I In 37% of Americans, the thirst mecha- down the type of activity you plan to do, became about my climbing weight. It Nutrition Bits and Bytes. nism is so weak that it is often mistaken how many times you can realistically was a vicious cycle. Water for hunger. do it each week, and for how long each “I had started and re-started diets a few time. Start with small, short, and easier The human body is composed of One glass of water will shut down times over the years but always failed goals, and work your way up. approximately 70 percent water. In fact, midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% to make the changes permanent. This of the dieters studied in a University of It is a lifestyle change. Washington study. Don’t be depressed if you have a setback New! Chabadweekly.com Free! Lack of water is the #1 trigger of day- — tomorrow is a new day. Online bulletin for the Crown Heights time tiredness. To be continued. community and for Chabad everywhere. A mere 2% drop in body water can Yaakov Bam is a member of American trigger fuzzy short-term memory, Association of Nutritional Consultants. Updated every night -- Renewed every Sunday night. trouble with basic math, and difficulty He focuses on guiding and advising Section for full-page ads focusing on the computer screen or on institutions, families and private indi- Urgent information will be updated as soon as possible. a printed page. viduals in implementing the RAMBAM Lifestyle. Yaacov can be reached at Drinking 5 glasses of water daily Many Categories and More to Come! [email protected] or by phone, decreases the risk of many diseases, (347)564-2874. chas v’shalom, (colon cancer by 45%; 16 CROWN HEIGHTS ~March 21, 2008