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$1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM !vfubj igfhkhhrp t VOL. 9 NO. 12 29 KISLEV 5769 .en ,arp DECEMBER 26, 2008

INSIDE FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK REBUILDING CHABAD OF MUMBAI

MindBiz BY LARRY GORDON Esther Mann, LMSW 24 Asleep At The Switch Hannah Reich Berman 32 Left, Right, Wrong Letters To The Editor Do you know why there is outright repugnance at the Our Readers 45 no longer any tolerance in presence of Feiglin and oth- Israeli politics for so-called ers, and the impression is cre- Cooking Concepts extreme right-wing positions? ated that riding him out of Naomi Ross 50 And why democratically elect- contention for a Knesset seat, ed candidates like Moshe for example, will help save A Chanukah Rematch Feiglin and others are maneu- tiny Israel from being con- R’ Chaim Cohen 54 vered around so as to skirt the sumed by its very self. I think democratic process, under the the main reason for this is The Hebrew Academy of Long Beach (HALB) 5th-grade boys and girls ran a guise of implementing it, in that whether you are Labor, bake sale to raise funds for Moishe Holtzberg, whose parents were murdered in Mumbai. Rabbi Shmuel Klammer (second from right) and Rabbi Dovid order to keep them from Likud, or Kadima, when you Plotkin (far left) presented a check in the amount of $4,794 to Rabbi ascending to elected office? Zalman Wolowik (second from left), rabbi of the Chabad of the Five Towns, There is a virtual display of Continued on Page 6 accepting it on behalf of Chabad of Mumbai. At far right is Jeremy Feder. HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE THE TIME IS NOW Nineteen Years B Y RABBI PESA CH Chabad lights up Long Beach. LERNER BY LARRY GORDON in Israel. It was raining and it See Page 75 was stressful. A year had For me, the story began This coming Shabbos— passed, but we were still at a about 17 years ago. I sincere- Shabbos Chanukah—I will be loss to understand how we as ly hope and pray that it ends observing the 19th yahrzeit for his children, and my mother soon. my father, Rabbi Nison as his wife of 44 years, were I joined the professional Gordon, may his memory be a going to deal with this very staff of the National Council blessing. It’s almost two painful void in our lives. I was of Young Israel (NCYI) in decades and, granted, that’s a comforted by the fact that I October 1991. One of the fairly long period of time. wasn’t the first or only person first things I began doing was I can easily recall how our to lose a parent and that this visiting the many Young Israel family observed that first was the natural, expected yahrzeit, all of us gathered at Continued on Page 11 Jonathan Pollard his graveside in Bet Shemesh Continued on Page 12 Kulanu Annual Scholarship Dinner. See Page 75 A Contrast In Scandals The Merkin KEEPING Affair WARM Madoff, Ponzi, and Another Mother’s Musings Halachah, Part 2 BY PHYLLIS J. LUBIN BY RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN Leaves Leaves fall Most of the yeshivas that Orange leaves lost money in the Madoff Soft leaves scandal did not lose it by in- Green leaves vesting directly with Bernard Yellow leaves Susan Settenbrino to be Madoff. Instead, they invested Leaves are so much fun! honored at Aleh Dinner. with Ezra Merkin’s Ascot —Yosef Lubin, Grade 3, See Page 55 Partners Fund, who, unbe- Room 207 Is it possible that not only the judicial system but also our very own Jewish knownst to them, invested it Yussie has been published! CANDLE LIGHTING community views the burgeoning scandals surrounding Bernard Madoff in Madoff’s “fund.” During the first week of (above, left) and the Rubashkin family with somewhat of a double standard? Dec. 26 – 4:16 PM While Mr. Madoff is under house arrest, Mr. Sholom M. Rubashkin (above, The question is, according school, I saw a flyer in Yussie’s Jan. 2 – 4:21 PM right) has been denied bail and is being detained in jail in Iowa pending trial. See story by Shmuley Boteach, Page 72 Continued on Page 15 Continued on Page 10 2 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 3 4 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 5 FROM THE EDITOR Jerusalem Post of December 23: FEATURES Continued from Front Cover “Defense Minister Ehud Barak held a meeting on Monday to review the use of Around The Five Towns 55 close your eyes at night and there are artillery in a potential conflict with P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 no pollsters, diplomats, or anyone else Hamas. Ministry legal experts have rec- 516-984-0079 around, in your heart and in your mind ommended that Israel avoid firing shells [email protected] Ask The Sensei [email protected] your thoughts and feelings about the into populated areas used to launch Warren Levi 64 situation in Israel are the same as Kassam rockets [into Israel].” LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON Feiglin’s thoughts and emotions. And So this is what we are dealing with Publisher/Editor Managing Editor Classified Ads 70 YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON that is troubling to those who have today in this absurd and deteriorated Sales Managers those feelings and ideas. CHANA ROCHEL ROSS Cooking Concepts Whether it’s Ehud Barak of Labor, Editorial Assistant Naomi Ross 50 Tzipi Livni of Kadima, or Benjamin SIDI BARON Netanyahu of Likud, there has not been It essentially translates YAKOV SERLE Hock Of The Rock a time in the careers of these people JERRY MARKOVITZ when they have not advocated the mer- Sales Representatives Eli Shapiro 33 ciless bombing or other militarily offen- to, “We know we should SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC sive operation aimed at locales from Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor Insights On The Torah which rockets were fired or from which be fighting to protect CONTRIBUTING EDITORS other terrorist activities were emanat- Irwin H. Benjamin, Hannah Reich Berman Rabbi Yanki Tauber 43 ing. And rightfully so. Unlike what the Anessa V. Cohen, Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg Chevrah Lomdei Mishnah 44 out citizens, but we Toby Klein Greenwald, Michele Herenstein new Israeli thinkers maintain—that Rabbi Yair Hoffman, Miriam Horowitz Israel’s weakness is her strength—the Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky Letters To The Editor 45 continued reality is that Israel’s won’t do it.” Shmuel Katz, Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann Rochelle Miller, Martin Mushell, Naomi Ross strength is precisely that: its strength. Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher Luach 8 Israel’s past as well as future leaders MICHAL WEINSTEIN, BINYAMIN RHODES (they happen to be the same people, it DOV GORDON MindBiz seems, for now) are not bent on fighting political nightmare in Israel. Hamas and Staff Graphic Artists Esther Mann, LMSW 24 fire with fire; rather, they seem commit- Islamic Jihad (is there a difference?) IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS ted to fighting terror not with generals, orchestrate the launching of rockets Staff Photographers Quick & Kosher infantry, or tanks but with lawyers. In into Israel that crash into stores and FRANKEL & CO. the aftermath of the relentless firing of people’s homes on a bad day, and near a Design & Production Jamie Geller 27 rockets on S’derot over the last week- school yard on a good day. Today’s Israel TALIYE CORLEY end, Defense Minister Ehud Barak responds by gathering together legal Art Director Real Estate conferred with attorneys to get a legal opinions to ascertain specifically what SUZETTE LEE Anessa V. Cohen 30 opinion about where in Gaza Israel international law would say about Israeli Assistant Art Director could legally and properly return fire. liability for bombs landing errantly in The Five Towns Jewish Times is an independent weekly news- That’s The Way It Is! If I didn’t read of this conference pursuit of terrorists. paper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not myself I certainly would have taken it to Ehud Barak has been at the helm of necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not Hannah Reich Berman 32 responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or be some kind of lurid or unsuccessful Israel’s military for a quite a few forays establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times. attempt at comedy. Here it is, from the throughout the West Bank, as well as

6 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES into Lebanon and other areas, in defense of Israel. Livni as well as Olmert, along with others, were inti- mately involved in the Lebanon war of 2006, in which Israeli planes dropped bombs and none of them knew precisely where they would land or who they would kill or hurt. For his part, Bibi Netanyahu has overseen, at different levels of government over the years (including that of prime minister), military incursions that killed and wounded Palestinian men, women, and children who he did- n’t know to be necessarily guilty of anything specifically warranting this type of treatment. And the great irony in all this is that, yes, the Arab terrorists and rag- tag “security forces” that are really mil- itant groups, which are allowed to arm themselves and flourish in Gaza, the West Bank, and southern Lebanon, fire indiscriminately into Israel’s populated areas. Their goal is to kill innocents— women and children, if possible. But Israel does not function with that kind of reverse morality which is fueled by depravity and corruption. And that’s good and that’s the way it should be. That’s not who we are as Jews and that’s not Israel. But Israel today has taken this honorable notion and turned it on its head. Prime Minister Olmert said this week that he knows how to respond to the rockets being shot at S’derot from Gaza. He also said that “a responsible government neither runs to battle, nor runs from it.” In a vacuum it would be a nice statement. In today’s context it essentially translates to, “We know we should be fighting to protect out citizens, but we won’t do it.” Essentially and with different word combinations and phrases, Olmert has said that the policy of his broken-down administration is to remain stationary, to do nothing as the rockets explode on top of people’s homes. Moshe Feiglin is not a military man. He and those who support him are not calling for war. No one is. No one wants it and, most importantly, no one wants to have to attend the senseless funerals of young boys who die defend- ing a policy of indecision, as was the case in Lebanon in 2006. Feiglin wants to restore Israel to the Israel of old. He wants a strong and mighty army to be feared so that it does not have to utilize its resources and send its boys into battle. He wants an Israel that is the home of a Jewish nation based on faith and belief in G-d. (That doesn’t mean that everyone has to observe Shabbos and keep kosher.) Israel today—that is, its leadership—is, however, running in the opposite direction. Kofi Anan, former Secretary General of the United Nations, once said that it was not possible that over 150 member countries of the UN feel one way, and Israel and a few other countries feel another way, and that the tiny minority is right and the many are wrong. I don’t know that Anan was that convincing, but he seemed to easily convince Israeli leaders that it just can’t be that little Jewish Israel is right in its claims to Jerusalem, etc., and everyone else is wrong. To that end, they’ve been trying to figure out how to

Continued on Page 13 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 7 CALENDAR LUACH Dec. 24 – Jan. 3 ZIP Code: 11516

27 Kislev Wednesday, December 24 3rd day Chanukah Wednesday evening: 4th Chanukah light Sunset: 4:32 pm; Nightfall: 5:19 pm 29 Kislev – Erev Shabbos Friday, December 26 5th day Chanukah Daf yomi: Kiddushin 79 Z’manim*: Earliest tallis/tefillin: 6:18 am Sunrise: 7:18 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 9:00 am Gr’a 9:36 am Friday afternoon: 6th Chanukah light Candle Lighting (Shabbos): 4:16 pm 30 Kislev – Shabbos Chanukah Saturday, December 27 6th day Chanukah 1st day Rosh Chodesh Teves Shabbos Parashas Mikkeitz Shabbos ends**: 5:21 pm 72 min. 5:47 pm 1 Teves Sunday, December 28 7th day Chanukah 2nd day Rosh Chodesh Teves 6 Teves – Erev Shabbos Friday, January 2 Daf yomi: Bava Kamma 5 Earliest tallis/tefillin: 6:20 am Sunrise: 7:19 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 9:02 am Gr’a 9:38 am Candle Lighting: 4:21 pm 7 Teves – Shabbos Saturday, January 3 Shabbos Parashas Vayigash Shabbos ends**: 5:26 pm 72 min. 5:53 pm * from MyZmanim.com ** add a few minutes for tosefos Shabbos according to your minhag Municipal Calendar For 5 Towns and NYC December 13–29 Free parking at metered spaces in Cedarhurst lots, Monday–Friday after 12 noon, all day Saturday–Sunday. Wednesday, Dec. 24 – Friday, Jan. 2 Winter recess at public schools Wednesday, Dec. 24 Extra LIRR Far Rockaway train from Penn Station at 3:48 pm. Thursday, Dec. 25 & Jan. 1 NYS banking holiday; local post offices closed; NYC parking regulations suspend- ed; no garbage collection. Transit: Sunday schedule. Off-peak fares in effect on LIRR December 25–28 and January 1.

Deadline for Advertising in the Next Issue is Monday, December 29 at 5:00 P.M. Call 516-984-0079 8 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 9 Mother’s Musings Rosenfeld, who blesses our home with a I usually keep him two grades behind to the usual sports activity, Brandeis Continued from Front Cover visit almost every Sunday. (In fact, I just his “chronological” age. First grade will invited the kids from Friendship Circle had an e-mail from one of my readers be a very new experience for him, since to their school’s Chanukah party. Yussie knapsack advertising a “Live at Five” seeking a res.-hab. worker in Far until this year his visits to HAFTR have is so excited to be going to another party! (for Public School No. 5) newspaper Rockaway for a 12-year-old boy. If any- been in the nursery/kindergarten build- Last night we had our annual family club meeting every Tuesday morning, a one is interested, kindly give Bais Ezra a ings. I pray that he will be able to learn Chanukah get-together at the Lubin half-hour before the start of the school call, or drop me an e-mail and maybe we from this new experience and I hope abode. While the men (Lenny, Naftali, day. I had already scheduled extra help can make a shidduch.) that he enjoys celebrating Chanukah Zayde Donald and Zayde Ike) were in with his speech therapist, Mrs. Yosef and our family have certainly with the children of HAFTR. shul for Minchah and Maariv, Yussie Schaefer, for that half hour, and then I met a lot of wonderful people through On Monday nights throughout the proudly showed off his poem in the “Live had a thought: What if Mrs. Schaefer this adventure called “trisomy 21.” My month of December, under the auspices at Five” newspaper to his Grandma would accompany Yussie to the heart goes out to all the wonderful and guidance of the Friendship Circle of Esther and Bubby Bernice. Big sister Tuesday-morning meeting? It could be young people who have given their the Chabad of the Five Towns—thanks Rivka then gave a very moving reading of an extra mainstreaming experience, at Leaves to a happy audience. I think both the same time getting Yussie more Yussie and Lea really enjoyed the gift involved with expressing his thoughts. receiving—and wow, did they receive an We tried it the first week, and Yussie has abundance of gifts! Toys, clothes, toys, attended Tuesday mornings ever since. Children don’t see a child with and more toys. And the smiles on their When Tuesday morning arrives, Yussie faces were my biggest presents. reminds me that I have to drive him to Down syndrome; they see a child This year we were honored to cele- school for “Live at Five.” It warms my brate an extra simcha during Chanukah: heart seeing him climb the steps to my parents’ wedding anniversary! school with the other “reporters.” All who needs a little extra help. Rochel spent hours decorating a cake in that we parents of “special children” their honor, and the cake was scrump- want (or almost all) is for our children to tious. We are so blessed to be able to be included. celebrate another year of their wedded This has been a big publicity week for time to make Yussie’s life fuller! to both Batsheva Bronstein and Rabbi bliss together—here’s to many, many Yosef Binyamin Lubin! Just take a gan- Children are remarkable people. Meir Geisinsky for organizing the more to come! der at page 82 of this past week’s Five They don’t see a child with Down syn- event—both Yussie and Lea attend And so, as I look out my window and Towns Jewish Times or at the poster that drome; they see a child who needs a lit- “Sports Night.” Much thanks to Coach see that the leaves are all gone and snow is up near the exit of Gourmet Glatt: a tle extra help. Every year, Yosef attends Kolb, Dr. Spivak, Rabbi Claudio J. and ice are now covering the trees, we beautiful picture of Yussie, along with HAFTR for the winter break through Kupchik, and the sixth- through eighth- can look forward to slipping and sliding his friend Jon Savage, as an advertise- the care and support of Kulanu. He graders at the Brandeis School who have and bundling up for the winter, and ment to work for Ohel/Bais Ezra! Yussie enjoys attending the same school that opened up their hearts (and their school) hopefully the lingering lights of the was lucky enough to attend Bais Ezra’s many of his siblings attend, and I think to working with the “special kids” and menorah will keep us warm in the cold end-of-summer camp, and that is when he enjoys the experience of meeting new some of their siblings, shooting hoops, months ahead. O he first had occasion to meet Jon. Upon children and bonding with new shadows running around, and having a fun time Phyllis Joy Lubin is an attorney with Rosenfeld & Jon’s advice, we had the nerve to send from the HAFTR Middle School. Lea, in their gym. Lea loves the opportunity Maidenbaum, LLP, who resides in Cedarhurst Yussie on his first Yachad Shabbaton. Yussie’s six-year-old sister, especially to be included in Yussie’s special activi- with her husband Leonard and six children: Naftali, Shoshana, Rivka, Rochel, Yosef, and Yosef currently has a wonderful res.- looks forward to the visit from her big ty—and Yussie loves running around! It’s Lea. She welcomes your questions and comments hab. worker through Bais Ezra, Rachel brother. Because of his slower progress a win-win situation. Tonight, in addition at [email protected].

10 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The Time Is Now NCYI and the Pollard cause have and Israeli government officials. ed, agrees. Members of the United Continued from Front Cover been intertwined ever since. Jonathan understands and accepts States Senate and House of My involvement in the Pollard case that he was to be punished for his Representatives agree. Vice branches. During the first few years of has taken me to the halls of the crime. But as he begins his 24th year President-elect Joe Biden agrees. The my employment at NCYI, I visited Knesset, to the offices of the Israel in the American federal correctional Conference of Presidents of Major almost all of the more than 150 Young Defense Ministry in Tel Aviv, to the system, the time is overdue for American Jewish Organizations Israel branches throughout the United Israeli Embassy in Washington, DC, Jonathan Pollard to go home—to agrees. The Israeli Knesset and all liv- States and Canada. and to the waiting rooms and offices Israel, to his family. ing past and present chief rabbis of During that time, I heard about an of current and former Israeli govern- Israel agree. Elie Wiesel and Natan event that was scheduled to take place ment ministers and officials. I have Sharansky agree. Hundreds of Jewish at the Young Israel of Manhattan met with current and former members and non-Jewish national organiza- (located on the Lower East Side), of the United States Senate and It is time for tions agree. Hundreds of thousands, which was to focus on sharing infor- House of Representatives and other if not millions, of Jews (and non-Jews) mation and raising awareness about U.S. government officials. I have Jonathan to go in the USA and in Israel agree. Jonathan Pollard. I thought that sought advice and direction from Now is the time for us to do all that attending the event would be a great Torah sages throughout Israel and the free, to go we can to help ensure that President way to meet the members of the shul United States. I have visited numer- Bush also agrees that Jonathan and to learn something about Jonathan ous leaders of both Jewish and non- to Israel, to live Pollard’s 23 years in prison are more Pollard, a name that I recognized but Jewish national organizations. than enough. did not really know much about. I I have met countless caring and the life still The National Council of Young attended the event, where not only did concerned individuals from countries Israel is working hard to obtain I meet members of the shul, but I also and cities throughout the world, in clemency for Jonathan Pollard, as are heard a startling story about Jonathan person, over the telephone, and via e- before him. many other organizations and individ- Pollard, who spied for Israel and mail. I have been interviewed about uals. We are requesting that received a life sentence. The Pollard the Pollard case for newspapers, mag- President Bush release Jonathan for story bothered me, as I had too many azines, television, and radio. I have After completing 23 long and hard time already served—23 years— questions and not enough answers. I addressed synagogue and school years in prison, it is time for our lead- which is considerably longer than started researching the Pollard story, groups and I have spoken at numer- ers to view this case with a sense of many others who have been convict- asking questions, and inquiring into ous rallies. compassion and to make an honest ed of spying for not just allied the activities of the Jewish community My understanding of the Pollard and fair request to free Jonathan nations, but enemy nations as well. on his behalf. case has deepened over the years, and Pollard, at least on humanitarian We encourage everyone to call, write, When I reported my findings to the my commitment to help a fellow Jew grounds. There are so many who or fax the White House daily. We urge Executive Board of the National has only intensified. My personal rela- agree that Jonathan’s 23 years in you to ask President Bush to let Council of Young Israel, they encour- tionship with Jonathan, whom I have prison are more than enough. James Jonathan Pollard go. aged me to continue my research and written to, spoken to, and visited so Woolsey, former director of the CIA, This past week, I accompanied to keep them informed. Young Israel many times, has been deeply agrees. Senator Charles Schumer and Rabbi Yonah Metzger, Chief Rabbi of has always prided itself on doing what enhanced. former Mayor Rudy Giuliani of New Israel, and Shlomo Mostofsky, the was right, not necessarily what was Jonathan committed a crime, and York agree. Former Senator Dennis President of the National Council of politically popular. I continued my he admits to that. He has expressed DeConcini of Arizona, who was Young Israel, to Butner, North research and I met with Jonathan remorse for his activities, in writing Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Pollard in prison soon thereafter, and and personally, to many American Committee when Pollard was arrest- Continued on Page 13

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 11 HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE Thursday, which meant that my brother those in my immediate and extended on a mountain that looks over at the Continued from Front Cover and I would not get to Israel until early family. Zaide had passed away—some- hills of Judea. Though I was stunned Friday morning. This meant that there what suddenly, definitely unexpectedly. and exhausted, I could still feel the order of things. And I think that being would be no choice for us but to spend There were still things that I needed to small car I was riding in from the airport forced, in a sense, to observe the the intervening Shabbos in Israel. say to him, things to talk about and dis- to Bet Shemesh accelerate and lurch yahrzeit in Israel with its enchanting While waiting in the airport in New cuss. Most importantly, I was stripped forward as it tried to navigate a steep hill and inspirational surroundings addi- York for the flight to board and take off, of the prerogative of our saying to one to make it up to the top. That hill hasn’t tionally comforted us all. we received our introductory taste to another that “we will continue this dis- changed, and as I turn left from the I think we were emotionally wound- what the life of a Jewish mourner was. cussion tomorrow.” highway to drive up that mountain ed on a number of levels. The main You see, as is wont to happen at the time And this event did not just transpire when I visit Israel, I can still feel the feeling was that my father was always of day that this flight was scheduled to resistance that comes with the steep- the man who had the ability to make leave, there was someone in the El Al ness of the mountain as it resists pedes- things right in our lives, no matter the area of the airport looking to put a min- trian efforts to scale her circular incline. situation. But it was clear that—at yan together for Minchah. Unbeknownst He once told me—and I Those of you who have followed least on the level we had grown accus- to the two of us (my brother and me), as think he was serious— these chronicles over almost a decade tomed to—that was not going to be the we were waiting somewhere in a corner of publication are familiar with my case anymore. of the lounge, this young man was that we will enjoy the inner conflict on this matter. These Then there was this matter of the counting us into his minyan. events required my interrupting my choice to be buried in Israel. His par- When he had assembled the ten view of the Judean hills Chanukah early that first year, as well ents and other relatives had all been men required for a minyan, someone as my feeling compelled to leave and buried conveniently nearby, in Queens. whispered in his ear while pointing in from the top of this finish the celebration in Israel, as my That would have meant taking a long our direction that the two of us were mountain. father had planned and anticipated. black limousine from the funeral service not halachically countable for the min- This year, however, I took the liberty of to the cemetery in Queens and then yan. You see, prior to the burial of his going to Israel and the cemetery in Bet back to our parents’ home in Brooklyn loved one, Jewish law places new Shemesh almost a month early. Over to mourn and observe a proper shivah. mourners somewhere in a state of sus- on any day. It happened during the several summer-like days, I spent hours Well, we got our black limo ride, but pended animation. They’re there, but night leading into the sixth day of on that mountain soaking in the expe- it was to the airport, where we went to then in a sense they’re not all there. Chanukah. That Thursday was a rience from the perspective of nearly a lounge and had to wait like everyone Their status is such that while they are washout for us, but we did manage to 19 years on. else for that long ride to Israel. I had very much physically there, there is light both a Chanukah menorah and Not that much has changed up there, barely slept the night before, when my something that is temporarily missing Shabbos candles in some hotel in except that it has become a bit more Dad passed away, and I recall feeling from their composition that discounts Jerusalem as we marked the completion crowded. My father talked about this that, considering the unexpected nature them and leaves them in limbo. At the of our first official day as mourners and place for about a decade prior to his of all this, there was little chance of end of the process there were just saying Kaddish for our Dad and ushered passing. He once told me—and I think experiencing the innocence and com- twelve of us—exactly a minyan, in this in Shabbos Chanukah in Israel. he was serious—that we will enjoy the fort of a few hours’ sleep anytime soon. case—to daven Minchah together. Despite the passage of a significant view of the Judean hills from the top of If there was any Divine intervention Yes, it was indeed the most difficult amount of time, those days—indeed, this mountain in Bet Shemesh. Frankly, apparent in these events—and it seems journey I’ve ever endured. I was sitting those moments—are still, and will most from the perspective of where my father to me that there definitely was—then on a plane to Israel but I was also sitting likely always be, vivid to me. One of the is interred, the view is not really that part of it was that all the above events on a line of demarcation that would for- memorable things about the ride to the transpired on a Wednesday night and a ever change my life, and the lives of cemetery in Bet Shemesh is its location Continued on Page 14

12 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The Time Is Now Continued from Page 11

Carolina, to visit Jonathan in prison. We spent several intense hours together. We discussed his case, the situation in Israel, and the upcoming holiday of Chanukah. We experienced Jonathan’s unbelievable emunah, his faith in G-d, and his daily sacrifices to keep kosher and do mitzvos. We experienced his love for the Jewish people and for the Land of Israel. We shared in his hope that he be reunited soon with his wife, Esther, in Jerusalem. There are only a few weeks before the president completes his term in office. During these next few weeks, the White House will be considering the numerous requests for pardons and clemen- cies that they have received. Please call the White House daily at 202-456-1111 or 202-456-1414, Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. EST, and ask the president to commute Jonathan Pollard’s prison sentence. Please add a daily prayer for Yehonatan ben Malka, Jonathan the son of Malka. It is time for Jonathan to go free, to go to Israel, to live the life still before him. My involvement began 17 years ago, and my hope is that this chapter will soon come to a close. I pray that my next visit to Jonathan will take place in Jerusalem very soon. O

For additional information about the Pollard case, please visit www.jonathanpollard.org. For more information about the current grass roots campaign, please visit www.freepollardnow.com. Rabbi Pesach Lerner is the executive vice-president of the National Council of Young Israel. He can be reached at [email protected].

FROM THE EDITOR Continued from Page 7 wiggle out of this need for a country that has these uncomfortable—not to mention unpopular—biblical roots. And then Feiglin comes along and gets enough votes in a strong, main- stream Likud party to be in the 20th position in the February elections. If that’s the case, that would be a step in the direction of the small minority gaining strength at the expense of the big majority in Israel. It’s odd how the Likud and other political parties have room for leftists and others who want to dismantle the State of Israel, but no room for the balance that a right-lean- ing candidate would provide. And then Chanukah rolls into town. And just when we are trying to figure out if using Israel’s military forces to protect its citizens is rightist or leftist, we find ourselves uttering a rather timely and opportune prayer three times daily. It says, in reference to the military nature of the Chanukah observance: “You deliv- ered the strong into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few, the impure into the hands of the pure, the wicked into the hands of the righteous, and the willful sinners into the hands of the diligent students of Your Torah. For Yourself You made a name that is great and holy in Your world, and for Your people Israel You performed a victory of great magnitude and salvation as this very day.” Happy Chanukah. O Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at [email protected]. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 13 HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE dark by the time I get there, and I don’t Continued from Page 12 even know if the place has lights. The car rolled slowly past the majestic view much. You have to take time to walk of Ramot, then down to Mevaseret around—which I have started doing Tzion, the Arab village of Abu Ghosh, only over the last few years—to gain an and then slowly past Telshe-Stone up appreciation for the location of this on another hill to the right. mountain and its beauty. I’m figuring that I had good inten- But that’s really not my usual con- tions, and I’m already on my way. cern. When I’m there, I tend to think Maybe the place is lit, I don’t know; I about those first moments when I was can’t turn back. Though the daylight is introduced to this place. Beyond that, I fading already, it seems to linger here contemplate the Midrashic commentary on the outskirts of Jerusalem. I don’t that says that just as the G-dly soul in see the sun in the sky anymore, but nei- our bodies desires to be uplifted and ther is it really anywhere near dark yet. rejoin its original G-dly source, so is the I see the sign for the Bet Shemesh converse also true. That is, after separa- exit and then there’s yet another sharp tion of body and soul, the soul, or a rep- curve in the road. The cars are moving resentation of it, tends to hover around faster now as I come around one of the place that the body was interred, these curves. Off to the left is my yearning to be rejoined with it in the mountain/cemetery. Just on top of the aftermath of the arrival of the Messianic mountain now is the most majestic era and the resurrection of the dead. large ball of sun getting ready to say Just a few weeks ago, as my wife met good night and dip behind my moun- up with a friend in Jerusalem, I found tain. What a sight! And if I hadn’t been myself with a few hours and decided to caught in such painfully slow traffic, I get into my car and make a beeline for would never have caught a glimpse of Bet Shemesh and my usual hangout— this scene. As I marvel at the blazing the cemetery. It was already 4 o’clock, sun hanging over that mountain, the but I figured that without traffic I idea occurs to me that maybe this is could be there in half an hour. Except some of that beauty that my father was that it’s wrong to figure that there will so taken by and alluding to all those be no traffic when you are trying to years ago. I’m alone in the car so I’m leave Jerusalem at 4 p.m., and for sev- free to speak—okay, shout it out—as eral hours after that. loudly as I want. And I find myself say- Traffic was virtually bumper-to- ing, after almost two decades of visit- bumper. I was inching forward and ing this spot, “You never said anything sometimes not at all. I began to have about the sun—you never mentioned some doubts about this reflexive plan this gorgeous sunset.” O that I had just hatched: What am I Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at going to do? It’s probably going to be [email protected].

14 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Halachic Musings Continued from Front Cover to halachah, did Merkin misrepresent what he was doing to his investors, and would he be at all liable to repay any of the funds that the yeshivas invested with him? Also, how would halachah look at Merkin’s fund? Is it a loan, or is it a shutfus (a halachically valid partnership)? If it is a shutfus, is the general partner (Merkin) obligated to look into the investment? How might a beis din look at the issue? Any analysis of this sort, of course, must take a look at the initial offering memorandum. In Merkin’s case, the latest “offering memorandum” (hence-

It seems that he did try to obscure the fact that he was investing completely in Madoff.

forth OM) for the “C class” members was written in November 2006. The OM clearly shows that the investment must be looked at as a partnership, where Merkin is responsible for managing the shutfus. If one reads the memorandum carefully, one can tell that Merkin was planning all along to place any moneys solicited into the Madoff fund. Since he also assessed a fee (1.5%) for his services, it seems that he did try to obscure the fact that he was investing completely in Madoff. Nonetheless, this is neither illegal nor is it in technical violation of any halachah. Merkin’s offering memorandum stated: “The Partnership’s investment objective is to provide limited partners with a total return on their investment consisting of capital appreciation and income by investing in a diverse portfolio of securities. Generally, the Partnership engages primarily in the practice of index arbitrage and options arbitrage, in which individual or bas- kets of securities are purchased and/or sold against related securities such as index options or individual stock options. These strategies are used to take advantage of price disparities among related securities.” Merkin could easily make an argument that he liked Madoff’s strategy of supposedly engaging in index and options arbitrage, and therefore chose that investment objective in his offering memorandum. Since he did plan to invest it in third-party funds, it was probably not deceptive to state that this was his investment objective. Since he was a partner and it seems that he was not acting deceptively— even though he did obscure who he was doing the investing with, and that he was investing only with that party— he would not be considered like a part-

Continued on Page 20 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 15 16 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 17 18 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 19

Halachic Musings Continued from Page 15

ner who placed the money in investments not agreed upon. According to the Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat, 176:11) the halachah of a partner who uses the moneys given to him in a manner not agreed upon is as follows: All profits from these moneys would be split between the partners. All losses entailed must be borne solely by the partner who misappropriated the money. Since it seems that Merkin did not misappropriate these funds, according to the halachah the losses would be split amongst all the partners, not just him. Merkin would be a victim just like anyone else and would not be held responsible for the losses. We did, however, say that it was “probably” not deceptive. An argument might be made that Merkin’s memorandum was slightly misleading. It did seem to imply that Merkin himself was implementing the general strategy himself, and that he meant to do this by investing with third-party managers. He obscured the fact that he was relying on the third-party manager to implement the strategy in its entirety. There are three paragraphs that strongly give this misimpression. Here are the paragraphs in question (the numbering is our own): 1. “The Partnership primarily follows a strategy in which the Partnership purchases a portfolio of large-cap U.S. equities drawn from the S&P 100. In order to hedge its exposure to these securities, the Partnership simultaneous- ly purchases a put option and sells a call option on the S&P 100, each with a notional value that approximates the value of the Partnership’s long portfolio. The purchase of the put option allows the Partnership to partially hedge its portfolio against downward movement in the S&P 100. The sale of the call option allows the Partnership to partially finance the purchase of the put option while at the same time partially hedging the Partnership’s portfolio against any downward movement in the S&P 100. 2. “The Partnership will make investments through third-party managers, using managed accounts, mutual funds, private investment part- nerships, closed-end funds and other pooled investment vehicles (including special purpose vehicles), each of which is intended to engage in investment strategies similar to the Partnership’s (collectively, “Other Investment Entities”). 3. “The General Partner 20 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 21 22 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Halachic Musings Continued from Page 20 intends, to the extent circumstances permit, to adopt a selective approach in evaluating potential investment situations, generally concentrating on rela- tively fewer transactions that he can follow more closely. The General Partner is expected to engage in hedging and short sales. There can be no assurance that any of the hoped-for benefits of the foregoing approach will be realized.” Merkin did, however, cover himself by adding the following sentences and caveats: 1. “Moreover, the General Partner reserves the right to deviate from the foregoing approach to the extent he deems appropriate. To the extent that the Partnership trades in commodities and futures and related options, the Partnership will incur additional risks… 2. “The General Partner reserves the right to alter or modify some or all of the Partnership’s investment strategies in light of available investment opportunities to take advantage of changing market conditions, where the General Partner, in his sole discretion, concludes that such alterations or modifications are consistent with the goal of maximizing returns to investors, subject to what the General Partner, in his sole discretion, considers an acceptable level of risk. 3. “The descriptions contained herein of specific strategies that the Partnership may engage in should not be understood as in any way limiting the Partnership’s investment activities. The Partnership may engage in investment strategies that are not described herein, but that the General Partner considers appropriate. The Partner- ship’s investment program is specula- tive and may entail substantial risks. Since market risks are inherent in all investments to varying degrees, there can be no assurance that the Partnership’s investment objectives will be achieved. In fact, certain investment practices described above can, in some circumstances, substantially increase the adverse impact on the Partnership’s investment portfolios. (See “Certain Risk Factors.”) 4. “Independent Money Managers. The General Partner may delegate investment discretion for all or a portion of the Partnership’s funds to money managers, other than the General Partner, or make investments with Other Investment Entities. Consequently, the success of the Partnership may also be dependent upon other money managers or investment advisors to Other Investment Entities.” A beis din would probably view the four caveats above as clearly stating that Merkin would not be violating the terms of the shutfus as originally agreed. Another argument could be made that Merkin promised to look after the third-party investments as much as possible but did not actually do so. Generally speaking, partners are supposed to look after the items of the partnership, according to the Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat 176:8). They have the halachic status of a paid watchman, a shomer sachar. Since he took responsibility for doing so, and got

Continued on Page 29 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 23

Dear Esther, He has dementia of some sort and is I absolutely feel like I’m losing my getting progressively worse. At first I mind. I’m in my late seventies and my didn’t think it was anything to be con- husband is in his early eighties. We’ve cerned about, but now there is no get- been together a very, very long time. I ting around the fact that he is really can’t say that we’ve ever had a wonder- failing mentally. ful marriage. Joe was not an easy man We have three grown children. Our to please or to get along with. I tried— daughter lives in Manhattan and our I always tried to be a good wife and do two sons live in New Jersey. They all the very best that I could. But the very work and are busy with their own lives

I just can’t imagine throwing him in some strange place and feeling good enough to go about enjoying my life.

best was never good enough. But way and children. They call often and visit back then, we did what we had to do. when they can, but basically, on a day- Who looked for happiness or fulfill- to-day basis, I’m on my own. Several ment? Who expected a great marriage? months ago, it got to the point where I We put up with a lot and were grateful felt I had to hire live-in help. I resisted to be healthy, and we focused on our doing this until it was absolutely nec- children rather than ourselves. That’s essary, mainly because we have limited the way it was back then. funds, but also because I felt very My husband’s health has been declining over the past five years or so. Continued on Page 26

24 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 25 MINDBIZ million Americans provide extensive thrilled to hear that you’ve found an take turns spending Sundays with you, Continued from Page 24 home care for ill or disabled relatives aide, but just as there are many fish in while Joe is being cared for by the hired every year. This process usually cre- the sea, there are also many aides look- help. It sounds as though you haven’t guilty having someone else do the work ates great stress and guilt-inducing ing for work. If the one you now have is felt very comfortable asking for much that I believe I should be doing. Also, ambivalence among those individuals moody and difficult, keep looking until from your children. Maybe it’s time you our apartment is small, and I feel doing the caregiving. Even the most you find someone who is the right fit started. Regarding their insistence that claustrophobic having another person vigorous caretakers often suffer from both for Joe and for you. You need to you put Joe in a nursing home, ask living with us. very high rates of depression, anxiety, feel comfortable with this person and them to respect your judgment. If and My three children are all pressur- and physical health problems. And I’m not resent her presence in your home. when the time is right for such a move, ing me to put Joe in a nursing home. referring to situations in which the After all, it’s still your home, and you you will know in your heart that it’s the They feel that my health is declining recipients of the help were once capa- need to feel safe and relaxed there. best place for him. Meanwhile, no one due to all the pressure I’m under. ble of loving and nurturing relation- Once you find someone that you but you can be the judge of that. After all, I’m still living with a man ships with the caregivers, before they like and trust, get moving! Expand During this time, more than ever, who is ungrateful and can still became needy. In other words, even your horizons and build an interesting your spiritual beliefs can help bolster scream at me relentlessly, for no rea- under the best former conditions, the life for yourself. Take advantage of positive meanings for the challenges son. Additionally, I have to deal with new reality of caregiving can create places to go, things to do, and people you are going through. Shiurim might the moods of our aide, who runs hot many excruciating emotional and to meet with, and give yourself permis- be a great place to find the encourage- and cold and who likes to complain. physical consequences. sion to start enjoying yourself—per- ment and reinforcement you require. She seems to be pretty good with In your case, because you don’t seem haps for the very first time. Don’t let And now more than ever, self-care is Joe, so I put up with her difficult to have many, if any, happy or fulfilling feelings of guilt keep you planted on vitally important for you. Join that yoga personality. memories to comfort you during the your sofa, serving as the recipient for class you’ve been thinking about for I have all sorts of horrible thoughts difficult times you now experience, Joe’s outbursts. Who knows? Maybe if years, be sure to remember to take about Joe, and then I torture myself your situation becomes that much more you’re around less, Joe will be calmer your vitamins, and maybe relax with a with feelings of guilt because of these trying and acute. It’s no wonder that and actually scream less. massage every now and then. Get thoughts. When I think about putting you feel as though you are losing your Consider joining a support group so some exercise, eat well, and have some Joe in a nursing home, I really feel mind. Certainly you must be feeling you can meet others who are in the fun. Do all the things that lend them- such intense guilt, I can’t handle it. I overwhelmed, underappreciated, and, same situation as you. You’d be sur- selves to optimum health and the just can’t imagine throwing him in to some degree, alone. As none of your prised to see how many people are liv- reduction of stress. some strange place and feeling good children live nearby, they can’t possibly ing lives parallel to yours. You will find No one else is expecting you to sac- enough to go about enjoying my life. witness what you are living with on a that these enriching connections will rifice yourself for Joe, so don’t ask it of I have so many mixed feelings. I just daily basis, so their phone calls proba- feel very supportive and ultimately very yourself. I’m sure you’ve done a great don’t know what to do. But I have to bly don’t really make the grade in terms loving. By building alliances among job for all these years, against all odds, wonder when my turn starts. When do of helping you feel less isolated and others who understand you and can being a good wife and mother. Take I get to have some peace of mind and alone in having to decide what the best truly empathize with you, you will no comfort in that and move from guilt to actually enjoy my life a little? When course of action should be. longer feel so alone. love—in particular, self-love. does that start? It seems it’s gone from Though Joe’s well-being is definitely Think about reworking family obliga- Esther hard to harder, and I’m becoming a serious matter of concern, you should tions. I’m sure your children are very resentful and bitter. also be equally concerned with finding busy with their own lives, but perhaps Esther Mann, LMSW, has a private practice in Lawrence. Esther is a psychotherapist and life Resentful a balance in your life between caring they can alternate having you and Joe coach and can be reached at 516-314-2295 or Dear Resentful, for him and not only sustaining your- for Shabbosos. Or, if Joe does best at [email protected]. She works with individu- The fact of the matter is that 50 self, but even nurturing yourself. I’m home with his aide, perhaps they can als, couples, premarital couples, and families.

26 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES about theme parties, and today’s theme is BYOD—Bring Your Own Dessert. While delegating is very importante, be sure to exercise some Quick & Kosher control over the situation. Don’t leave B Y JAMIE GELLER it to the whims of your guests, because you’ll end up with three different ver- sions of chocolate-chip cookies and three unique interpretations of the Chanukah: The Final season’s hottest new cake. Put someone on brownie duty, put another on pie patrol, and assign only one cookie Countdown captain, please—because how does the saying go, “Too many captains…”? And something about a ship? Alas, not Step 4: Main Menu, Continued Caesar salad. And don’t underestimate really sure about that joke, but I’m Okey-dokey: As promised, here’s the the power of homemade Herb- sure I want a crazy fabulous forget- rest of the anticipated menu for the Seasoned Croutons, the ideal comple- your-diet dessert buffet. My only con- Geller Chanukah party. ment to Caesar. tribution will be my homemade super- Ingredients: I say “anticipated menu,” because I duper-easy sufganiyot. Try them, enjoy, 2 romaine hearts, shredded about 1 hereby reserve the right to call an audi- The Last And Final Step 5: BYOD and have a sweet and bright ⁄4-inch thick 1 ble at the last minute—fickle woman What Chanukah bash is complete Chanukah this year! ⁄2 cup croutons 1 that I am, I have been known to do without a fresser-lover’s-overdone- ⁄2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, such things. That scenario goes a little only-the-way-Jews-know-how-to-over- Sun-Dried Tomato Caesar Salad chopped something like this: After the best-laid do-a-dessert-buffet buffet? This is Prep time: 9 minutes grape tomatoes, halved (optional) plans, shopping, and prep, I suddenly where all my lovely guests come in— Cook time: none decide I must make my most heavenly which is why it’s super-handy that I Chill time: none and delicate Goat Cheese Walnut invited about 60 of them. I am all Yields: 6 servings Continued on Page 28 Salad in place of the planned Sun- Dried Tomato Caesar Salad. No matter how much you labor over a menu—no matter how many opinions you get and how many sample holiday meals, cookbooks, and web- sites you scour—you always have second thoughts. At least you do if you’re like me. I’ll have this crazy internal dialogue with myself: “The goat-cheese salad is such a ‘chick’ dish, and the Caesar is a salad that men will love, too.” “But I always make the Caesar; I am soooo bored of it.” “I always make it because everyone always loves it.” “But since Hubby doesn’t like the goat-cheese salad and I absolutely, positively adore it, when do I ever have the chance to make it except for a party like this, when he will have plenty of other things to eat!”… And thus goes the dialogue. But can it be called that? It’s actually between me, myself, and I. Is that classified as a monologue? Is it classified as any -logue, considering it was never even spoken aloud? After much inner torture, I will usually just settle on the hard but easy way out and decide to make both. Hard because it’s more work, yet easy because we all know how truly hard it is to make a decision, any decision— especially one as super-important as this one. So this new super plan most probably will include leaving the goat-cheese salad for the last minute and then running out of time to shop for it and make it. So, alas, the Caesar with sun- dried tomatoes and homemade croutons will go out on its own, with zero competition, left to shine as the only salad star of our Chanukah bash. And, G-d willing, it will be a huge hit, as always. Needless to say, our heavy, Italian- style carb extravaganza is best tem- pered by this fabuloso Sun-Dried Tomato Caesar Salad that even men— yes, men—love. Using this recipe at a dairy meal allows for the addition of fresh-grated Parmesan, a traditional ingredient in 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 27 QUICK & KOSHER Herb-Seasoned Croutons a subtle hint of sweetness. Continued from Page 27 Prep time: 8 minutes Cook time: 10–15 minutes Sufganiyot (Jelly Doughnuts) For dressing: Chill time: 30 minutes Prep time: 8 minutes 1 ⁄4 cup light mayonnaise Yields: 6–8 servings Cook time: 10 minutes 4 Tbsp. olive oil Ingredients: Rest time: 20 minutes 1 Tbsp. Dijon-style mustard 5 thick slices day-old bread (challah, Yields: 14 doughnuts 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce white bread, sourdough, or whole Ingredients: 1 3 cubes frozen crushed garlic, or 3 wheat), cubed 2 ⁄2 cups self-rising flour cloves fresh garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. dried oregano 16 oz. low-fat vanilla yogurt 1 Tbsp. dried parsley or 2 Tbsp. 1 Tbsp. dried parsley flakes 2 Tbsp. vanilla sugar fresh parsley, minced 1 Tbsp. onion powder 2 eggs 1 Tbsp. onion powder 1 Tbsp. garlic powder 6 cups canola oil 3 2 Tbsp. water 1 tsp. kosher salt ⁄4 cup confectioners’ sugar 1 1 ⁄4 tsp. kosher salt ⁄2 cup olive oil 1 cup seedless strawberry jelly 1 ⁄2 tsp. coarse black pepper Directions: Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 425°F. 1. In a large bowl, place flour, Directions: 2. Lightly grease two 9" x 13" pans yogurt, vanilla sugar, and eggs. 1. Place romaine in a large salad with non-stick cooking spray. 2. Knead until all ingredients are bowl. 3. Divide bread cubes evenly combined and a sticky, doughy batter 9. Roll each doughnut in confec- 2. Add croutons and sun-dried between prepared pans. is formed. Cover with a kitchen towel tioners’ sugar. Or shake 3 doughnuts at tomatoes. 4. Sprinkle with oregano, parsley, and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes. a time in a paper bag filled with con- 3. In a separate bowl, whisk togeth- onion and garlic powders, and salt. 3. Heat 6 cups canola oil in a 6-quart fectioners’ sugar. er dressing ingredients until smooth 5. Drizzle with olive oil. stockpot, covered, over medium heat. Tip. I just read this fabulous tip from and creamy. 6. Bake at 425° for 10 to 15 min- 4. When dough is ready, uncover oil Joan Nathan for filling your sufganiyot 4. Pour over salad and toss lightly. utes, until light brown and crisp. and raise heat to high. with jelly: Once cooled, she makes a 5. Serve immediately with grape 7. Allow croutons to cool at room 5. Scoop out a tablespoonful of batter pocket in each roll by using the handle tomatoes, if desired. temperature for 30 minutes and use to and drop in oil. Don’t make the dough- of a wooden spoon, pushing to but not Tip. That fab cook Auntie Rachey, garnish salad. nuts too big, so they can cook through. through the opposite end. This creates the one I’ve told you (and told you, and Make-ahead tip. Croutons will last 6. You should be able to fry about 7 a nice space for the jelly. Then she uses told you…) about, adds a squeeze of at least two weeks, if cravings can be doughnuts at a time. Using a slotted a plastic squeeze/condiment bottle or lemon juice to brighten this dressing controlled and they’re stored properly. spoon, turn doughnuts when halfway piping bag to fill it. Sounds cool—I am and totally swears by it. Once they are fully cooled, keep them browned, about 30 seconds to 1 going to try it this year. O Note. Although sun-dried tomatoes in large, sealable plastic bags. minute. Fry for another 2 to 3 minutes are not traditional ingredients for Note. Homemade croutons are or until entire doughnut is deep gold- Caesar salad, they’re perfect at my always a big hit. Until I discovered how en brown and cooked through. table because I love tomatoes and my easy it is to make them, I used to omit 7. Remove doughnuts and let cool on Happy husband doesn’t. He can pick around croutons from all recipes that called paper-towel-lined plates. Repeat previ- them and we’re both happy. The idea for them. (The store-bought ones did- ous two steps with remaining batter. Chanukah! comes from our favorite restaurant, n’t appeal to me at all.) I love to make 8. Fill a squeeze bottle with jelly and Bistro Grill in Great Neck. my croutons out of challah, which has inject a little into each doughnut.

28 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Halachic Musings s”xc Continued from Page 23 paid to do it, he might have some liability. He does, however, specifically exclude such responsibility, which might be sufficient to get him off the hook. Indeed, the Rama (C.M. 176:8) rules that he only has the status of a shomer chinam, an unpaid watchman. If we look carefully at the wording, however, he only writes that he will take care in selecting the manager and monitoring the results—not in the means by which the third-party manager makes the money. He takes on this promise in the following paragraph: “Although the General Partner will exercise reasonable care in selecting such independent money managers or Other Investment Entities and will monitor the results of those money managers and Other Investment Entities, the General Partner may not have custody over the funds invested with the other money managers or with Other Investment Entities. Hence, the actions or inactions on the part of other money managers or the investment advisors to Other Investment Entities may affect the profitability of the Partnership. The risk of loss of the funds invested with other money managers or with Other Investment Entities may not be insured by any insurance company, bonding company, governmental agency, or other entity and the General Partner is not liable for any such loss.” Finally, we have the opinion of the Shach (C.M. 176 on the Rama) who disagrees with the aforementioned Rama and states that he does not even have the status of a paid watchman. Merkin would be able to use the argument of “Kim li k’hani poskim” to state that in his view the opinion is like the aforementioned Shach. “Kim li” is a legal argument that can be used to allow an aggressive legal position to be taken when the status of the money is not in the possession of the other liti- gant. Since the money is no longer in the hands of the investors, this argument might have validity to exempt Merkin from any violation of a fiduci- ary responsibility to look into what Madoff was doing. In short, the investors’ option would be to focus their efforts on seeing what they can get from Madoff as well as the moneys paid to the other investors above and beyond their initial investments, as we discussed in last week’s article. O

The author can be reached at [email protected].

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 29 been. Rates today are governed more opening for appraisals coming in at by internal bank politics than by any values lower than present local mar- indices and how they might be run- kets and can be problematic. ning up or down. As the lenders continue to make • Some banks are now doing their changes in how they provide mortgage own appraisal management. This money, we will have to overcome some means that they control who is actu- hurdles of inconvenience and try to Roller-Coaster Mortgaging property—always ascertained by the ally doing the appraisal and some- circumvent the roller-coaster of This has been a very interesting certified appraised amount.) This times it might also mean an outside changes that they invent and then week for people either looking for a means the lender will price the loan appraisal company—a non-local reinvent on the continual path of seek- new mortgage for a purchase or look- based on what they consider to be the appraisal company may be doing the ing the best mortgage rate out there on ing to refinance the mortgage on their risk—a 70% loan-to-value ratio on a appraisals for the lender. The nega- the best possible terms. current homes. The rates have been property poses less risk to the lender tive issue with this is that an out-of- A Happy Chanukah to everyone! O fluctuating, ranging anywhere from than 80%, etc. The lower the percent- area appraisal company is not going Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and is a 4.75% to 5.5%, depending on the time age of the loan-to-value, the better the to be conversant with local neigh- licensed real-estate broker (Anessa V Cohen of day (the rates have been changing rate that the lender will quote you, borhoods and values, and they are Realty) and a licensed N.Y.S. mortgage broker up and down like a yo-yo at least twice (A.C. Action Mortgage Corp.) with over 20 years of experience, offering full-service residential and a day lately) as well as on what we commercial real-estate services in the Five Towns might think to be a ridiculous number and throughout the tri-state area. She can be of factors. Some of these factors duly reached at 516-569-5007 or via her website, www.AVCrealty.com. Readers are encouraged to introduced by the bank read some- An out-of-area appraisal company send questions or comments to thing like this: [email protected]. • If you have a credit score over 720, you are home free and there are is not going to be conversant with no add-ons. (Add-ons being the possi- bility of a higher rate by adding an local neighborhoods and values. additional 0.25% to the rate or price to WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? adjust for the lender’s perceived risk.) • If you have a score of over 680 but WE WANT TO KNOW! less than 700, your add-on to the price of your mortgage might be an addition- given that their risk is lower. going to take values from closed E-MAIL US AT al 0.50%. • Whereas prior to this year the sales based only on mileage areas • Credit scores of less than 680 go interest rates on a 15-year mortgage and similar square footage and lay- [email protected] on in this vein, with a variety of add- might have been cheaper than on a out, as opposed to being aware of ons dependent on the score on a slid- 30-year mortgage, many lenders have values according to location desir- OR UPLOAD ing scale, down to a score of 601, instituted new changes to that prem- ability. For the banks looking to pro- YOUR COMMENTS AT which is the lowest the lenders will ise. Sometimes you will find that the tect themselves against appraisal consider under any circumstances. 15-year rate might be less; some- fraud, this may be of some assis- www.5tjt.com • The ratio of loan to value. (Loan- times it might even be more than a tance, but for the homeowner or to-value is the amount of the mortgage 30-year rate. There is no pattern to purchaser looking to get the proper you want divided by the value of the follow as there once might have market value it may leave a wide

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 31 past ten years. These messages destroy so many lives without as much warned—begged—the S.E.C. to inves- as a backward glance? tigate Madoff. But, to no avail! It never By comparison, this monster is mak- happened. Maybe these clowns didn’t ing last week’s headline-grabbing have the time. They were too busy gonif, the governor of Illinois, look bet- chasing the likes of Martha. ter. Blagojevich did the wrong thing, Madoff, so far as we know, didn’t but he didn’t destroy the lives of thou- kill anyone by his own hand, but in sands of innocent people. If Asleep At The Switch the end he is a murderer. Given the Blagojevich were Jewish—and thank fact that the Gift of Life Bone G-d he isn’t, because we have enough Will anyone ever forget the name Last week, when he was being Marrow Foundation has reported on our hands with Bernard Madoff— Bernard Madoff? It’s a sure bet that allowed outside in the light of day, the having received numerous calls he might have had an explanation. His the Securities and Exchange look of arrogance on his kisser was from major donors who no longer defense could have been that old Commission won’t. Where were these simply untenable. Far be it for anyone have the resources to honor their favorite, “temporary insanity.” He geniuses who went after that famed to make predictions about the out- pledges, who knows how many lives could say that he became confused domestic doyenne, Martha Stewart, come of such a nasty situation, but it may be lost? And this is just one of and thought he was selling a shul seat with a vengeance? Martha was wouldn’t be a surprise if, despite the several foundations that are in trou- instead of a Senate seat. charged with committing securities Jews know from seats! We buy them violations, conspiracy, and obstructing for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, justice, among other violations. And and—don’t let anyone tell you differ- she was nailed! Basically she went to ently—one way or another, we pay jail for “supposedly” having insider He could say that he became more for those better seats. A better information about her stock. seat in the men’s section might be any- After her stay in the Big House, the confused and thought he was selling where he desires to sit. In the women’s lady was released and then placed section it means a front-row seat, or under house arrest for five months one within the first few rows, so we more. She wore an electronic anklet a shul seat instead of a Senate seat. can see what’s going on downstairs or and was confined to her home except signal to a husband when necessary. for 48 hours a week of employment, But there’s more to it. Being seated up food shopping, doctor appointments, front lends one an air of respectability. and worship. security surrounding Madoff, a crazed ble. Others have already been forced The term “lend” is fitting, because Madoff, who has apparently turned investor wanted to take matters into to shut down. essentially it is a loan. In most shuls it peoples’ lives inside out to the tune of his own hands. Initially the wise-guys among us is also temporary, since the seats are $50 billion, was initially confined to And speaking of security, the said, “I only wish I had that kind of sold for the Yamim Nora’im only. Still, his $7 million penthouse only between Securities and Exchange Commission money to lose.” But when the full hor- having a seat oyven uhff, even tem- the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. members should be hanging their col- ror of what this man did—the whole- porarily, makes some people feel good Thankfully, within days, the feds lective heads in shame. It might prove sale devastation—came to light, all about themselves. slapped him with new, tighter restric- interesting if some relentless investiga- kibitzing stopped cold. Now we’re left It’s a different story with regard to tions, and a federal judge ordered that tive reporter could get his hands on the to wonder why a seemingly respectable men’s seats. Some men have a ten- he must remain in his home 24/7 many letters that some people claim to family man would perpetrate such a unless he’s due in court. have sent to the commission over the hoax. What would make someone Continued on Page 36

32 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES amidst this recent global financial crisis this year; and 99 families had already there has been a sharp reduction in on- asked for additional financial assistance time tuition payments to private schools for the 2009–2010 academic year. In and a sharp increase in requests for our area, many schools have lost signif- tuition assistance and scholarships. icant percentages of their endowments This has resulted in a tremendous as well as revenue from their larger sup- financial crisis for the yeshivos and day porters due to their own losses. Yeshivos schools of the Five Towns and and day schools in the Five Towns and The Yeshiva Bailout Proposal for the banks, who probably should not Rockaway. To put it simply, schools, Rockaway are reporting great concern Let me start by saying that I don’t have approved the mortgages in the like businesses and municipalities, over how they will be able to remain fis- think I’m breaking a story wide open first place. However, in the private- have projected budgets for the year. cally solvent. here. I don’t think I have the exclusive, school community, the biggest single Tuition dollars and pledges and gifts Now more than ever we need to pri- and I am quite sure you are well aware expense for a large family is often the make up part of the revenue that oritize our expenses. I will go out on a of what I am about to tell you. expense of education. In many cases, allows them to cover expenses such as limb here and state that I believe there Apparently there seem to be some over time it exceeds the enormous teacher salaries and the cost of heat are few more worthy recipients of our issues with the strength of our econo- expense of homeownership and can be and electricity, etc. When the actual charitable dollars than the institutions my. Call it what you will—recession, the source of immense frustration for revenue is less than the projected rev- that educate our children and shape depression, regression, downturn—it our community with the values that we all spells B-A-D news for many individ- profess to hold dear. Now, when I say uals and businesses. I have heard the “shape our community,” it is because I current climate of our economy believe that the responsibility to sup- referred to as the “perfect storm” that Last I checked, our school admin- port these institutions extends beyond has long been brewing. the parent body of the school itself to Through years of mismanagement the community at large. Whether an and lack of sufficient oversight in the istrators don’t fly on private jets. individual has school-age children banking industry and stock market, we attending our yeshivos or not, the find ourselves in a place that many of us responsibility is no less diminished. thought was a relic of the early ’30s, hav- To add to the problem, Governor ing no place in our modern-day tech- parents when trying to meet the enue due to a decrease in paid tuition David Paterson has recently proposed driven world. In recent months, the requested amounts from community dollars or contributions, our schools the elimination of the Comprehensive financial difficulties of the corporate yeshivos and day schools. face a very real crisis. Attendance Program (CAP) for private world have trickled down and have had a For years now, there has been talk of A recent survey of 22 day schools in schools. This would result in a reduc- profoundly negative effect on individuals the “tuition crisis.” There has been the L.A. area, conducted by the Bureau tion in funding of nearly $55 million in the affected industries and beyond. much debate over whether the crisis is of Jewish Education of Greater Los from last year’s budget. Also affected For most of the country, an individ- due to tuition that is too high or to Angeles, identified a total of 170 fami- would be the Mandated Services ual family’s highest expense is usually improper prioritization of expenses by lies in economic distress. 125 students Reimbursement program for non-pub- the cost of homeownership. We cer- parents. The argument has been made had dropped out of school either just lic schools, further reducing funding tainly have seen that subprime borrow- that it is unfair for a family to spend mid- prior to the start of school or during the for non-public schools by 41 percent. ers have been unable to keep up with winter break in Aspen and still ask for a month of September; 10 students had This greatly reduces the revenue that this expense and have defaulted on reduction in tuition from their school’s dropped out of school in October; 60 payments, resulting in massive losses tuition board. But I digress. In truth, families had renegotiated tuition for Continued on Page 37

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 33 34 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 35 THAT’S THE WAY IT IS! Continued from Page 32

dency to talk in shul, and some others doze off from time to time. These people may choose to sit behind the bimah so they’re hidden from view and can’t be spotted when they chat or nod off. Most people hate being seated next to a pole, but I have one friend who loves it. He claims he needs to lean against it on Yom Kippur when his back hurts from standing too long. Others insist upon an aisle seat, despite the fact that they will be disturbed by young children squeezing in and out of the row a dozen times in an hour, stepping on feet as they go. But kids need access to their dads. And for some reason it’s always the fathers with the most active tots who sit dead center in the row. Seats are a big thing with us. Blagojevich, however, has never had any involvement with shul seats, so there was no confusion. No temporary insanity here. Simply put, he is an opportunist who knew what he was doing. He was dealing with a Senate seat and he wanted to capitalize on filling it. It’s called greed. Still, with all the corruption and greed in this world, plus the issue of self-importance that some people have, there remains much that is good. The current bright spot on the land- scape is Chanukah. Figuratively and literally, it doesn’t get any brighter than that. Menorahs are supposed to be placed facing the street, to pub- licize the miracle of Chanukah as much as possible. The ideal place is actually outside the door of the house, which is the prevalent custom in Israel today. But here in the United States we settle for a window. One need not be Jewish to light a menorah. Anyone can light one. There is no ordi- nance prohibiting it. Maybe the Securities and Exchange Commission members should think about doing that. They’ve been in the dark long enough. Happy Chanukah! O

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

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36 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES HOCK OF THE ROCK Continued from Page 33 our schools have counted on to cover expenses. These losses are real dollars that go to providing for our children’s education. It is with all this in mind that I propose a bailout for the yeshivos and day schools of our community. The bailout goes like this: Every family in the Far Rockaway/Five Towns Jewish community (approxi- mately 15,000) makes a commitment to give a contribution, according to its means, of between $100 and $500 to the yeshiva or day school of its choice. In order for it to count, this has to be on top of any other dues like the dinner or capital fund; that money is already part of the school’s budget. If the bailout averages a contribution of $250 per family, it would result in nearly $4 million infused into the Five Towns/Far Rockaway yeshiva/day school system. Now don’t get me wrong. If you want to give more, by all means do so. But this bailout may be the shot in the arm that our community’s schools need to implement effective long-term financial strategies. Let’s face it: our community schools deserve this a lot more than the insurance or auto industries. Last I checked, our school administrators don’t fly on private jets in an effort to better the workplace. For New York City residents, it appears that the annual homeowners property tax rebate check of $400 will be in the mail soon. This may be the unexpected extra few dollars that could go toward the bailout. Nassau County residents, keep in mind that, unlike tuition, this is a tax- deductible contribution, and if you act quickly you can get it applied for the 2008 tax year (consult your local tax advisor). Also, while it is shocking to many, I realize not all of the 15,000 families in the area read my column. Yes, I know it is dis- appointing, but here is where you come in. Every person should tell three friends to par- ticipate in the yeshiva bailout. When making your contribution, make sure to write on the check or tell the person taking your credit-card information that this is part of the bailout proposal, so we can monitor our efforts. And finally, don’t think of it as just a “contribution,” but rather as an investment in the continuity of your community. Well, that’s it for now. Have a happy Chanukah, thanks for your help, and I’ll keep you posted. O

Eli Shapiro can be reached at his group “I love Hock of the Rock” at facebook.com. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 37 38 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 39 40 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 41 42 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Bereishis 42:9). tions. And galus in all its guises, our The result of all this dreaming was sages tell us, is the outgrowth of our the Egyptian galus (exile)—the first first galus in Egypt. galus experienced by the Jewish people Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi and the source of all their subsequent explains that galus was born out of a exiles. The Children of Israel settled in succession of dreams because galus is Egypt, where they were later enslaved the ultimate dream. A dream is percep- by the Egyptians, and where they dete- tion without the discipline of reason. riorated spiritually to the extent that, Here are all the stimuli and experi- From The Chassidic Masters in many respects, they came to resem- ences we know from real life—sights ble their enslavers. When G-d came to and sounds, thoughts and action, and redeem them, He had to “take a nation exhilaration and dread. Indeed, every- The Cosmic Fantasy from the innards of a nation,” entering thing in a dream is borrowed from our into the bowels of Egypt to extract His waking lives. But everything is topsy- chosen people from the most depraved turvy, defying all norms of logic and Whither All These Dreams? eleven years before that, his repeated society on earth. credulity. In a dream, a tragedy might A significant part of Parashas retelling of his own two dreams had In the 3,300 years since, we have be a cause for celebration, a parent Mikeitz is devoted to a pair of dreams intensified his brothers’ envy of him, undergone many more centuries of might be younger than his child, or a dreamt by the king of Egypt. These provoking them to sell him into slav- galus, as we came under the hegemony cow may jump over the moon. dreams are actually recounted not ery. Indeed, Yosef carries every detail of Babylonians and Persians, Greeks Galus is a dream: a terrible, irra- once, but three times: first we read an of his two dreams with him wherever and Romans, Christians and tional fantasy embracing the globe account of the dreams themselves; and spanning millennia; a dream in then comes a more detailed version, as which crime pays, the good die young, we hear them described by Pharaoh to and G-d’s chosen people are slaugh- Yosef; and then comes Yosef’s reply to tered with impunity; a dream in which Pharaoh, in which he offers his inter- He inhabits the dream-world of what is right and true is seldom “real- pretation of the various components of istic,” and nonentities such as “igno- the dreams. galus, where antitheses coexist rance,” “death,” and “evil” are potent And these are but the last in a forces in our lives. sequence of dreams detailed by the The surreality of galus pervades our Torah in the preceding chapters. Yosef and inconsistencies are the norm. spiritual lives, as well. Only in galus is in Pharaoh’s palace interpreting his can a person arise in the morning, dreams because of another set of purify himself in a mikveh, pray with dreams, dreamt two years earlier in an ecstasy and devotion, study a chapter Egyptian prison. Back then, Yosef was he goes, and they serve as the basis Communists. We are still in galus of Torah, and then proceed to the incarcerated together with two of for his seemingly strange treatment today. We may be free, on the whole, of office for a business day of connivance Pharaoh’s ministers, each of whom of his brothers and father many years the persecutions and hardships we and deceit. “Hypocrisy” is not an ade- had a dream which Yosef successfully later, when he is ruler of Egypt and experienced in earlier generations, but quate description of this phenome- interpreted. his brothers come from famine- the Jew is still a stranger in the world, non—in many cases, his prayer is sin- And why was Yosef in that Egyptian stricken Canaan to purchase food still deprived of the environment that prison in the first place? Because (see Ramban’s commentary on nurtures his soul and feeds his aspira- Continued on Page 46

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 43 advancements” of ancient times. One the city elders, ‘This son of ours is way- of the devices on display was the ward and rebellious. He does not listen antique version of a baby bottle, which to us. He is a glutton and a drunkard.’ was actually a hollowed-out ox’s horn! [Consequently] He will be stoned to A small hole would be punctured in death” (Devarim 21:20–21). the narrow end, from which the There are numerous precise condi- youngster would sip his milk. tions that must be fulfilled in order for R’ Yitzchak Zilberstein (who record- such an individual to incur the death ed the account of the above-men- penalty, as outlined in the eighth chap- tioned exhibition) explains the ration- Mishnas Chayim ale of the devious Greeks. This decree was not just some whim of an evil and eccentric commander, but a well- One of the devices on On The Parashah thought-out calculation on the part of the enemy. The Yevanim were specifically targeting the youngest element of display was the antique The Right Foot HaMikdash and tried to force idolatry the Jewish population, attempting to on the Jews. inculcate their heretical ideas into Kindly take a moment to study Mishnas Chayim version of a baby bottle, in the merit of Nochum ben Mordechai haLevi, Milk. The Midrash (Bereishis them from the start. In other words, a’h, a fellow Jew who passed away with no rela- Rabbah 2:4) relates one of the bizarre they recognized the importance of a tives to arrange Torah study on behalf of his which was actually a neshamah. and cruel decrees issued by the “good start,” and sought to tear a Jew Yevanim. They forced their Jewish sub- away from the Torah from the very “Grant me wisdom from my ene- jects to inscribe the following declara- beginning, while he was still an infant hollowed-out ox’s horn! mies” (Tehillim 119:98). At times, we tion on the “horn of an ox”: “We have (Aleinu L’shabei’ach, vol. 1, p. 83). can extrapolate the best way for suc- no portion with the G-d of Yisrael.” This vital chinuch (Torah-educa- cessfully serving Hashem by taking a Many commentators struggle to tion) principle cannot be underscored lesson from the designs of our worst understand the particular venue the enough. “The end is good from the ter of Sanhedrin. This helps account enemies. The Yevanim (Greeks) of the Yevanim chose. They obviously were beginning,” states Shlomo HaMelech, for the fact that rarely (if ever) was Chanukah saga are no exception. trying to coerce the Jewish people into the wisest of all men (Koheles 7:8). there an actual case when someone As opposed to Haman the severing their connection with Chazal explain his words: When does was put to death under this law (see Amalekite, who sought the physical Hashem, G-d forbid. But this business an endeavor turn out well? When it Sanhedrin 71a). annihilation of the Jewish people, the with using an ox’s horn seems puz- gets off to a good start (Yerushalmi, There are specific “criminal acts” Yevanim were intent on our spiritual zling, to say the least. If they didn’t Chagigah, 2:1). that the ben sorer u’moreh must perpe- demise. As long as the Jews would for- have paper, couldn’t they just use the A clear manifestation of this phe- trate to be eligible for this sentence. sake Hashem and adopt foreign ways, classic papyrus? nomenon is the seemingly perplexing Generally speaking, they entail steal- the Yevanim would allow them to live R’ Leib Gurvitz (former rosh yeshiva topic of the ben sorer u’moreh (recalci- ing and then using the stolen funds to (see Mishnah Berurah 670:6). To this of the Gateshead Yeshiva) once trant son). Here the Torah mandates acquire and consume a portion of end, the Greeks issued a series of evil observed an exhibition of sorts that that if a youth displays certain way- meat and wine. While this behavior is decrees, forbidding such practices as shed some possible light on the subject ward tendencies, he can actually be not exemplary, it behooves us to under- Torah study and circumcision, for at hand. The exhibitors were demon- liable to the death penalty. example. They defiled the Beis strating some of the “technological Wine. “And the parents shall say to Continued on Page 46

44 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Not Minding My Own Biz added that “Lonely” might be every- Dear Editor, thing a man wanted from a wife but My wife and I generally enjoy and that “he just needs more in order for admire Esther Mann’s MindBiz col- his life to be balanced and fulfilled.” umn. Her acuity and insights usually Mrs. Mann went on to comfort Lonely hit the mark and are fodder for good, and suggested she find other pursuits constructive couple’s conversation. to fill her lonely days ahead. However, I must take strong exception With all due respect, I feel that this regarding her advice in this past week’s response is misguided both from a sec- edition (December 19) to 55-year-old ular and Torah approach to counsel- “Lonely.” “Lonely” wrote that she was ing. Dr. John Gottman, one of the not coping well with her husband of 33 country’s foremost relationship experts year’s decision to accept a lucrative and author of the NY Times bestseller and rewarding job opportunity out of The Seven Principles for Making town. He now spends all week away Marriage Work, wrote that after 25 from home, a three-hour-flight away, years of innovative research, he con- at a time in their lives when she was cluded that “the determining factor in hoping to spend more time together as whether wives feel satisfied with the their children were all grown and out intimacy, romance, and passion in of the house. “Lonely” added that it’s their marriage, by 70 percent, is the not like they needed the money and quality of the couple’s friendship. even if he did not work another day Likewise for men.” He added that the they would be fine. She added that the simple truth about happy marriages is second he waves goodbye and walks that they are based on a deep and inti- into the airport terminal, tears start mate friendship. “By this I mean a streaming down her face. mutual respect for and enjoyment of After validating Lonely’s feelings, each other’s company. In happy mar- Mrs. Mann argued that men needed riages spouses are well versed in each new opportunities and challenges to other’s likes, dislikes, personality keep them engaged and excited and quirks, hopes, and dreams. They have that they “love the hunt,” and going an abiding regard for each other, not after exciting business opportunities was what some men need. Mrs. Mann Continued on Page 47

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 45 FROM THE CHASSIDIC MASTERS tence. In the real world, a true rela- MISHNAS CHAYIM speaking, it applies only for the first Continued from Page 43 tionship with G-d can come only in the Continued from Page 44 three months following the day a boy context of a life consistently faithful to reaches the age of bar mitzvah; anyone cere, and his love and awe of G-d quite Him; in the dreamworld of galus, the stand why he is killed just for having a out of this age bracket is not subject to real. But he inhabits the dream-world imperfect individual can experience wild party. The Mishnah (ibid. 8:5) the punishment. of galus, where antitheses coexist and the Divine. In the real world, only the offers an explanation: “A ben sorer In other words, the Shem inconsistencies are the norm. impeccable soul can enter into the u’moreh is judged and punished based MiShmuel explains, the entire sec- In the real world, such absurdities Sanctuary of G-d; in the dreamworld on his end” (i.e., the eventual culmina- tion applies only to the very beginning were impossible. When the Holy of galus, G-d “resides amongst them, tion of his behavior). Elaborating on of adulthood. This reflects the para- Temple stood in Jerusalem and bathed in the midst of their impurity.” this idea, the Gemara (ibid. 72a) mount importance of a good reishis the world in Divine daylight, no man We daily await the Divine dawn explains that in the end, things will (beginning). If he starts out on such a with a residue of spiritual impurity that will dispel the cosmic fantasy become totally out of control. debased path, it is as if we can (tumah) could approach G-d until he which, for much of our history, has Compelled to satisfy his addictions, he already view any (future) wickedness had undergone a process of purifica- crippled us physically and spiritually. will take to marauding and murdering. he will commit as already in existence tion. That G-d is the source of life and But in the moments remaining to the Still, the idea seems difficult to right now. His sof (end) is really con- that sin (i.e., disconnection from the dream of galus, let us avail ourselves understand. In most other circum- tained in his reishis. Divine) is synonymous with death was of the unique opportunity to be “hyp- stances, the Torah adopts a principle of This is the secret that the Yevanim no mere conceptual truth, but a fact of ocritical” and “inconsistent” in the “ba’asher hu sham” (Bereishis 21:17), understood—to defile the Jews right life. In the real world that was, and to positive sense: by overreaching our judging an individual according to his from the beginning, feeding them evil which we will awake when the dream spiritual capacity, and by being and present deeds. Why does the Torah propaganda with their milk. And so let of galus will evaporate, the spiritual doing more than we are able by any seem to make an exception here? us gain “wisdom from our enemies” by laws of reality are as apparent and as rational measure of our merit and To further clarify this intriguing sec- employing the same tactic for the immutable as—indeed more apparent potential. O tion, the Shem MiShmuel (Parashas Ki good. By inculcating a love for and immutable than—the physical Seitzei) points out that there is actual- Hashem and His Torah into our chil- laws of nature. Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher ly a very small window for the applica- dren during the early stages of their However, says the Lubavitcher Rebbe; adapted by Yanki Tauber. Courtesy of tion of these laws. It does not apply to development, they will be assured of a MeaningfulLife.com via Chabad.org. Find more Rebbe, there is also a positive side to Torah articles for the whole family at an actual minor, nor to someone who successful and righteous career. our present-day hallucinatory exis- www.chabad.org/parshah. has reached real maturity. Practically The Shem MiShmuel stresses that this idea has many ramifications in our lives. A bar mitzvah, a wedding, Rosh Hashanah—every morning, in fact— all present a new beginning, an opportunity to start afresh. Beginning with the proper attitudes and pure inten- tions can go a long way in ensuring a meritorious day, year, and life. O

Mishnas Chayim is brought to you by Chevrah Lomdei Mishnah, a network of Torah scholars dedicated to bringing the merits of Mishnah study to the greater Jewish public. Encompassing Mishnah, Gemara, and a variety of other services, Chevrah Lomdei Mishnah primarily assists mourners interested in acquiring the merit of Torah study for their loved ones. They can be contacted at 732-364-7029 or at www.society- formishnahstudy.org.

Then spoke the chief butler to Pharaoh… “There was there with us a lad, a Hebrew, a slave… and he interpreted to us our dreams” (Bereishis 41:9–12) Accursed are the wicked, for they never do a kindness thoroughly. In mentioning Yosef, the chief butler speaks of him in disparaging language:“a lad”—unwise and unfitted for a high position;“a Hebrew,” who does not even know our language;“a slave,” and it is written in the bylaws of Egypt that a slave may neither become a ruler nor dress in princely robes. (Rashi)

46 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 45 just in the big ways but in the little ways, day in and day out.” This makes a long-distance marriage that is not born out of necessity a highly ques- tionable, if not tragic, choice. From a Torah perspective, a happy couple is described as rei’im ahuvim, beloved friends. It is the joy of daily frequent loving gestures and contacts that creates emotional closeness. But in this case there is an even deeper issue. Rabbi Sholom Arush, author of the popular Garden of Emunah, in his book on marriage, Gan HaShalom, explains that one’s connection with one’s wife is not merely of a deep friendship but mirrors and models our ability to relate to the Shechinah, Hashem’s presence in our lives. Based on the Zohar, he explains that our wives are mirrors reflecting back to us what areas within our personality and behaviors G-d wants us to improve upon. Our marriage provides the only context within which man can achieve his tikkun nefesh, the achievement of the purpose of his life. In this approach, our relationship with our wives is a microcosm of our relationship with Hashem. Men can score their own report card in how they are faring in G-d’s eyes accordingly. Mrs. Lonely’s tears at takeoff are not only her tears, but they are the tears of the Shechinah over the loss of this loving friendship and painful distance of Hashem’s presence in their daily lives. It behooves anyone in a position of influence to have Mr. Lonely reevaluate his com- mitments and to reorient his life in a way to make his wife’s happiness his first and foremost priority. This is the purpose of marriage. Period. Rabbi Jay Yaacov Schwartz, LMSW The Jewish Family Wellness Center Cedarhurst

We Are All Responsible Dear Editor, Scandals don’t happen in a vacuum. Fifty years ago it was unfortunately a commonplace occurrence to find an “orthodox” food establishment selling one hundred percent treif. In more recent years such events have thankfully become few and far between. The reason? Community standards. When we live with an appreciation that kashrus is governed by halachah, the societal fabric is such that it is less likely for a butcher, grocer, or store to contemplate such hideous action. It is safe to assume that the vast majority of people would never engage in the kind of outright fraud that has recently come to light. Nonetheless, no different than Shabbos and kashrus, extra sensitivity that business is governed by halachah can create an environment with a demand for proper standards. The recent terrible chillul Hashem should awaken us all to the urgent need to address this issue. Now for the good news. I have recently seen firsthand the wonderful work of Machon L’Choshen Mishpat under the leadership of Rav Chaim Kohn, shlita. They are committed to raising awareness and proficiency in

Continued on Page 48 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 47 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR if it is already starting to wear off. Rav inspirational story or mashal (parable). really love each other because, as Jews, Continued from Page 47 Ephraim Wachman said, “We can’t let However, he spent a lot of time focused that is what we are supposed to do. this be another September 11th, where on another aspect of Yiddishkeit, name- Let’s learn these seforim in the the areas of monetary halachah. One we say that we will make changes and ly chesed and ahavas Yisrael, and he zechus of those Yidden who were taken of their very effective programs is a we have nothing to look back on.” If we penned two monumental works appro- from us in India. Let’s attempt to live Sunday morning Choshen Mishpat don’t start now, then this moment will priately named Ahavas Chesed and our lives with the same love for each chaburah. We started such a chaburah chas v’shalom escape us. Ahavas Yisrael. Let’s begin to study other as they did. Let’s start today! in our community a few weeks ago. I have heard rebbeim, friends, and these seforim, and we will be awakened Please spread the word by copying Within the first two weeks I saw first- people from all over convey the same to the beauty that achdus really entails. this letter, and passing it on to every- hand how this project heightened peo- idea: that during this time we were all We are urging everyone to start learn- one you know. Together we can make a ple’s sensitivity to halachah in areas of so close and did not care about the lit- ing these seforim today—a little bit real difference! financial dealings that previously tle differences between us. We acted every day or whatever you can; the If you would like to get more weren’t watched. I would strongly rec- as K’lal Yisrael should; we were unit- main thing is just to start. If we all take involved with this project or would like ommend contacting them at info@ ed—we were one. The idea cannot be on this limud (learning) as a continua- to send a comment or suggestion, machonmishpat.com and asking them expressed better than the way Rav tion of the feelings that K’lal Yisrael please contact [email protected]. to bring a similar project to your neigh- Rosenberg, Rivka Holtzberg’s father, had a few short weeks ago, it will Yitzchak Diamond borhood. The impact is immeasurable. articulated: “If K’lal Yisrael can man- change each one of us. It will change Rabbi Dovid Weinberger age to stay together, then the loss of K’lal Yisrael. It will change the world. From Advocate To Antagonist Congregation Shaaray Tefila these two precious souls would be We are now in the midst of celebrat- Dear Editor, worth all the pain.” ing Chanukah, a festival where we learn Until recently I thought I was the Make Achdus Their Legacy The time has come to show Hashem that great things can occur as a result of only one disturbed by the content Dear Editor, that his children are truly one nation. small things. It’s time to kindle the and tone of my friend Shmuel Katz’s I address this letter to my dear So where do we begin? We all know flame within each one of us and come articles over the last few months; but brothers and sisters around the world. and have heard of the Chofetz Chaim. together. The halachah tells us that all the last installment seems to have It’s only been a mere three short weeks When we hear his name, we all think the lights have to be on the same level. touched a raw nerve in many others, since the terrible attack in Mumbai. different things. Some think of the So too, we Jews are all on the same as well. When this horrific tragedy occurred, it Mishnah Berurah, others think of level, and no one is greater than the When our friend and neighbor made shook us to the core and yet it seems as shemiras ha’lashon, and yet others of an other. Let’s try to find it in ourselves to the courageous decision to make aliyah with his family a few years ago he continued his valued and dedicated service to the community by keeping a diary of the challenges, problems, and benefits of the aliyah process. I, like others, read with great interest and concern Reb Shmuel Katz’s journey to the land of our fathers, and the minor setbacks and frustrations that he and his family faced, culminating with a successful aliyah. His articles were informative, encouraging, even uplifting. I personally know of two families (and there probably were significantly more) that, after reading Shmuel’s weekly diary installments, were encouraged to take the final step to aliyah. V’chein yirbu. But something happened. In recent months, feeling the need to share with us some of the challenges of daily life in Ramat Beit Shemesh, in particular dealing with some of the extremists in the community; we have read descriptions of these chareidi extremists as gangsters, criminals etc.; the kind of terminolo- gy usually reserved by such secular Israeli newspapers as Haaretz or Yediot Achronot. Most disturbing is why Reb Shmuel feels that we need to hear the “dark side” of life in Eretz Yisrael, and how this helps people become motivated about aliyah to Eretz Yisrael. If a particular person should ask him about the communal difficulties in Ramat Beit Shemesh, and it would be determined that there would be a “toeles” (purpose) in relat- ing this information to that person, it would probably be acceptable to share this information; albeit without the name calling. However, what heter is there to speak lashon ha’ra about Eretz Yisrael in a public forum without any toeles whatsoever. On whose halachic authority was this public criticism of life in Eretz Yisrael allowed? Our Chazal point out that there were two terrible sins committed by Bnei Yisrael in the Midbar: one was the cheit ha’egel, and the other the sin of the meraglim. The fundamental difference between the two is that the 48 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES cheit ha’egel was forgiven, but the sin of the meraglim was not. Why is that so? I once thought to explain that it was because the eigel was a sin against Hashem, and he was mochel on his kavod. However, the sin of the meraglim was a sin against Eretz Yisrael and on that there is no mechila. Speaking publicly and dis- paragingly about Eretz Yisrael and about a specific group, no matter how disturbing, is a form of lashon ha’ra on the land, which the land does not forgive. Added to that is that the unacceptable categorizing of chareidim (even these extremists) as gangsters, etc. is unnecessary at best, prohib- ited at worst. How did we go from advo- cating for aliyah to becoming an antagonist against the chareidim, or “chareidi bashing” as it’s referred to? I once shared with your readers a story about the previ- ous Amshinover Rebbe, zt”l, of Bayit Vegan. One day, the Rebbe’s driver, who usually wore a jacket out of respect for the Rebbe, commented, “It is so hot today, would the Rebbe mind if I take my jacket off?” The Rebbe replied, “For my part you can take off your shirt, but please don’t speak lashon ha’ra about Eretz Yisrael.” The Gemara is replete with stories of how the Tannaim and Amoraim went out of their way never to utter a bad or unkind word about Eretz Yisrael, either the land or its people. It is related in Kesuvos (112A) that Rav Ami and Rav Assi would go from sun to shade and vice versa to avoid any feeling of discomfort in Eretz Yisrael. Is the price of a successful aliyah to feel like an Israeli and take sides in a war against chareidim—even against the most extreme of groups? This will not encourage aliyah, nor will it inspire more Ahavas Yisrael and tolerance against even the most intolerant of us. I miss the trials and tribu- lations of the aliyah process and the underlying love for the land and its people. I miss hearing of the experi- ences of the first yom tov, the first Chanukah, the kedushah of a Shabbos in Eretz Yisrael. And most of all I miss the wonderful inspiration that all of that gave to each and every one of us. The consistent diary of the life and challenges of aliyah was indeed a valuable service; the chareidi-bashing and tales of communal strife in Ramat Beit Shemesh are not. Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg Cedarhurst 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 49 1 1 envelope dry active yeast (2 ⁄2 tsp.) scraps to make more rounds. Place the 1 tsp. sugar doughnuts on lightly floured baking Cooking Concepts 4 cups white-bread flour, plus more sheets, spacing them apart, and cover for dusting/kneading lightly with a dry towel. Let rise in a 2 Tbsp. sugar warm spot until doubled in size, about The Perfect Sufganiyah my memory. 1 tsp. salt 30 to 40 minutes. B Y NAOMI ROSS We eat foods fried in oil during 2 large eggs, beaten Fill a heavy large pot with vegetable or Chanukah to remind us of the tremen- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted and canola oil, about 3 inches in depth. Heat Way back in my seminary days, the dous miracle Hashem did for us by cooled pot over medium-high heat until oil Jerusalem air breathed into us a pas- making the only sealed jar of oil found vegetable or canola oil, for frying reaches 350–360°F. Carefully drop the sion for the Torah we learned. Come in the Beis HaMikdash (the Holy cinnamon and sugar, for rolling risen doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at Chanukah time, the air was scented Temple) last for eight days and nights. doughnuts a time, until golden and puffed, turning with the intoxicating aroma of fresh We celebrate the light that illuminated Directions: once, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. sufganiyot emanating from every mako- the darkness of that time, during the In the bowl of a mixer, combine the Lift the doughnuts from the oil let (local market store) and bakery. Hellenist threat, and with each night warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of using a slotted spoon and drain on a Before Chanukah had even begun, of Chanukah we add a little more light sugar. Mix until dissolved. Set aside plate lined with paper towels. Roll word had already spread from one to cut through the black confusion of until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes. In doughnuts in a mixture of granulated yeshiva to the next about Uri’s suf- today—to distinguish Truth from a separate large mixing bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Transfer to racks ganiyot. “What? You never had one of among the lies that enshroud our flour, sugar, and salt and set aside. Add to cool completely. Uri’s caramel-filled sufganiyot?! What vision. Learning Torah is a spiritual the beaten eggs and melted butter to To prepare the doughnuts for filling, are you waiting for? Head yourself over vehicle for bringing Light into the the yeast mixture. Add the flour mix- push the blade of a small, sharp knife to Geula and have one before world…which is probably the reason ture by 1/4 cupfuls, continually incor- into the side of one doughnut about Chanukah is over—eizeh chavayah the sufganiyot I enjoyed while studying porating the flour after each addition three-fourths of the way to the opposite (what an experience)!” Torah will forever be sweet, and also until the mixture comes away from the side; remove knife. Insert tip of a pas- Being the dutiful seminary student the reason I try to re-create them in my sides of the bowl and forms a ball. Mix try bag filled with the caramel filling that I was, with every desire to drink in own home each year. the ingredients into a soft, slightly into the slit and press in filling until all that being in Israel for the year had to The following recipe is my own ren- sticky, dough. (You can do this in a center of doughnut bulges. Return offer, I made my way to Uri’s pizza shop. dition of Uri’s sufganiyot, and well mixer fitted with a dough hook.) If doughnut to rack. Repeat with remain- Although the line stretched out the door worth the effort. Eat them fresh—and kneading by hand, turn the dough out ing doughnuts. Doughnuts can be in anticipation of the oozing gooey have napkins on hand! onto a lightly floured surface and filled up to 2 hours before serving. Let doughnuts, I found each and every bite knead until smooth and elastic. stand at room temperature. Serve fresh worth the wait. Glistening beads of Crazy Caramel-Filled Sufganiyot Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled and enjoy. caramel sauce dripped down my fingers A fry thermometer is invaluable for bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled as I nearly inhaled the whole thing. ensuring that the oil is the right temper- in size, about 2 hours. Crazy Caramel Filling Oh my. ature. Too hot, and the doughnut will Punch down the risen dough. Turn Ingredients: 1 The sufganiyah was a delicious con- be burnt on the outside, raw on the out onto a lightly floured surface and 1 ⁄2 cups sugar 1 fection in its own right, but the experi- inside; too cold, and the doughnut will knead for a few seconds. With a light- ⁄3 cup water 1 ence of learning Torah in Jerusalem be greasy. ly floured rolling pin, gradually roll out 1 ⁄4 cups heavy cream 1 1 and being there to enjoy every part of Yields: approx. 20 doughnuts the dough to about ⁄2-inch thick. Cut ⁄2 tsp. pure vanilla extract the Jewish year made those sufganiyot Ingredients: out into 3-inch rounds with a lightly Directions: something doubly special to savor in 1 cup lukewarm whole milk floured biscuit cutter. Re-roll the Watch the mixture very carefully at

50 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES the end of caramelizing the sugar, as it will go from caramel to burnt very quickly! Mix the water and sugar in a medium heavy-bottomed sauce- pan. Cook over low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, until the sugar dissolves. Do not stir. Increase the heat to medium and boil uncov- ered until the sugar turns an amber brown (about 350°F on a candy thermometer), about 5 to 7 minutes, gently swirling the pan to stir the mixture. Be careful—the mixture is extremely hot! Turn off the heat. Slowly add the cream and vanilla— stand back to avoid splattering. The cream will bubble violently and the caramel will solidify; don’t worry, this is normal. Simmer over low heat, stir- ring constantly, until the caramel dissolves and the sauce is smooth, about 2 minutes. Allow to cool to room temperature, at least 4 hours. It will thicken as it sits. For thicker consistency, make in advance and refrigerate. Caramel sauce will last for many months in the fridge in a tightly sealed container. O

Naomi Ross teaches Cooking Concepts, courses on cooking skills and kitchen management for the Jewish woman. For more information, visit her website at www.JewishCookingConcepts.com. Naomi can be reached at [email protected].

And Yosef’s ten brothers went down to buy grain in Egypt (Bereishis 42:3) Why are they called “Yosef’s brothers” and not “Yaakov’s sons”? In the beginning they did not treat him with brotherly love but sold him; subsequently, however, they regret- ted it. Every day they would say, “Let us go and inquire about him and restore him to his father.” And when Yaakov bade them go down to Egypt, they all resolved to show him brotherly love [and seek to find him]. (Midrash Rabbah)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 51 52 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 53 ion of R’ Menachem Mirzburk, he In the Aruch HaShulchan’s treat- must light a single ner on his first ment of this question, there is mention Chanukah Musings night of lighting, even though every- of still another opinion—that in miss- one else is lighting two neiros. The ing a single night, one has completely BY RABBI CHAIM COHEN that if someone did not light the entire Rama rejects this position. lost his chiyuv to light ner Chanukah first night, he should begin the next Another novel opinion found in the and may no longer light neiros (with a What happens if a person either for- night and light just as everyone else, poskim is rejected by the P’ri Chadash and berachah) on any other night, similar got to light ner Chanukah one night or i.e., two neiros. The presumption here the Elya Rabba. According to this view, if a to the halachah regarding sefirah. He was in a situation where it was impos- is that he lights on each subsequent person missed a single night he should light too dismisses this view, just as the Beis sible for him to do so? If he missed the night with a berachah. the following night the requisite number of Yosef and Gr’a, citing the special ele- first night, for example, what should Both the Beis Yosef and Gr’a explain flames less one. So, on the last night of ment of temimos that is a requirement he do? Is he no longer able to light on that the halachah of ner Chanukah dif- Chanukah, when everyone else is lighting of sefirah, but not of ner Chanukah. the second and subsequent nights with fers in essence from that of sefirah, inas- eight neiros, he would be lighting only seven. Lastly, I found a rather interesting a berachah, as in the case of sefirah, or much as sefirah also entails a concept of The Shibbolei HaLeket §186, in p’sak in the Kaf HaChayim regarding an may he continue to light on the other “temimos.” Thus, if one failed to count discussing the case of one who forgot individual who had failed one night to nights with a berachah? even a single day of the omer, there can to light ner Chanukah, cites an even light ner Chanukah. When the person Also, should he light on the next no longer be a fulfillment of temimos. In more radical “solution.” According to was advised that we follow the above night only one ner—which is what he contrast, each night of Chanukah repre- this opinion, the person should light opinion of the Rama, and that in effect missed, but not the number of neiros sents a separate miracle, and therefore both the number of neiros he missed he had “lost” that day, he became visibly that everyone else is lighting? Or each night is a wholly separate chiyuv. and the number of neiros that every- agitated. Sensing this, the poseik pro- should his lighting follow exactly what Another difference in halachah one else is lighting. For example, if ceeded to tell the person that he might the tzibbur is lighting, i.e., two lights between sefirah and ner Chanukah is if the person missed lighting on the “compensate” for that day by adding to on the second night, three on the third one can “make up” in the daytime for third night, he would then light on the neiros an amount of oil that would night, etc., although in the process he not having performed the mitzvah the the next night three neiros, to make satisfy the shiur of oil for both nights. will entirely be missing his chiyuv of night before. Again, this has to do with up for the night that was missed, plus I must confess that this p’sak seems lighting a single ner on the first night? temimos. In the case of sefirah, as long four neiros (presumably in a different a little difficult to understand, since And finally, what happens to the as one counts the omer (albeit without location) to satisfy that night’s regardless of the quantity of oil that berachah of Shehecheyanu? Can a per- a berachah) in the daytime, he has still requirement. one uses, as long as it is in a single son recite that berachah even on the sec- satisfied the temimos requirement. In The Shibbolei HaLeket dismisses container it should only be considered ond or subsequent nights, if it is the first contrast, with ner Chanukah, pirsumei this view, as well. To do so, he argues, a single ner. Perhaps the p’sak was time that he is lighting neiros? Or, is nisa precludes one from lighting neiros would give the impression to observers intended either to reduce the ques- Shehecheyanu restricted to the first in the daytime, since the light of the that the person is violating the divrei tioner’s anxiety, or that he not be con- night of Chanukah, because Chazal ner is virtually ineffective in daylight. chachamim, by lighting too many sidered a choteh niskar, one who gains specifically prescribed that on the first The Rama is a little more expansive flames. Therefore, the day that was monetarily from a wrongful action. night of Chanukah one recites three in his Darchei Moshe on the Tur and missed cannot be made up. A Lichtige Chanukah to all, and may berachos, and therefore the berachah of cites two opinions on this matter. With respect to the berachah of we be zocheh soon to witness the oros Shehecheyanu may be recited only then? According to the Maharil and the Shehecheyanu when one did not light ner of Mashiach Tzidkeinu. O As one finds in most areas of Aguda, anyone who misses lighting for Chanukah on the first night, the Shibbolei halachah, there are divergent positions one night must light on the subse- HaLeket writes that there is no question The writer wishes to acknowledge recent discus- sions on this subject with Rabbi Dovid in the poskim on these questions. The quent night the same number of neiros but that he must recite this berachah Moskowitz, rav of the Chai Odom shul in Rama in Hilchos Chanukah §672 rules as everyone else, whereas in the opin- when he lights on the second night. Brighton, MA.

54 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Aleh Foundation’s Gala Event, January 8 The Aleh Foundation announced that its Gala Benefit for 2009 is scheduled to take place on Thursday evening, January 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Museum of Jewish Heritage–A Living Memorial to the Holocaust (36 Battery Place in Manhattan). The evening’s exciting

David and Tammy Friedman

program will be headlined by special guest Joe Piscopo (of Saturday Night Live fame). The evening’s fea- tured speaker will be Nonie Darwish, the courageous author of Now They Call Me Infidel. Ms. Darwish’s fascinating story is one that should not be missed. A private tour of the museum will be avail-

Nonie Darwish Continued on Page 56

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 55 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 55

able for event guests prior to the start. David Friedman, one of Aleh’s most prominent supporters, will serve as the evening’s master of ceremonies. Aleh is Israel’s foremost provider of care, treatment, and education of severely developmentally disabled infants, children, and young adults. Aleh’s facilities in Jerusalem, Gedera, the Negev, and Bnei Brak are home to more than 650 children with special needs, while thousands more from all across Israel attend as students and day patients. The proceeds from this event will help build a beautiful new Special Education School campus in Pardes Katz, near Tel Aviv. A special tribute will be presented to Yehuda Marmortein, director-general, and to Aleh’s past honorees, the “heroes” of Aleh’s special children. Several distinguished

Continued on Page 58

56 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 57 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 56

individuals will be recognized for their lifetime achievements by the board of directors of the Aleh Foundation. Susan D. Settenbrino, Esq., will receive 2009’s Humanitarian of the Year award, and Ellen Perecman will be honored as Woman of the Year. Ms. Settenbrino, a prominent attorney, has long been a strong advocate for the rights of disadvantaged and disabled children. Ms. Perecman is the artistic director of The New World Theater Project, which is devoted to keeping alive the legacy of the Yiddish Theater and the Yiddish language.

Peter and Jamie Lichtenberg and family.

Joining the Aleh Foundation’s dedicated staff to put this memorable event together are event chairpersons Peter and Jamie Lichtenberg and journal chairpersons Farnaz and Shahram Delafraz. The Lichtenbergs and Delafrazes, along with so many of Aleh’s supporters here in the U.S., have given their time, effort, and money to help the weakest among Israel’s population, and they should be saluted for their selfless acts of charity. Reservations and journal tributes can be made by calling the Aleh Foundation’s Brooklyn offices at 718-851-4596 or 800-317-ALEH, e- mailing [email protected], or Susan Settenbrino visiting www.aleh.org. O

58 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Melaveh Malkah In Memory Of HaRav Avrohom Blumenkrantz, zt’l On motazei Shabbos of Parashas Vayeitzei, December 6, a large crowd gathered at Bnos Bais Yaakov to partic- ipate in a special melaveh malkah ten- dered by Bais Medrash Ateres Yisroel in loving memory of their unforget- table mara d’asra, HaRav Avrohom Blumenkrantz, zt’l. The special guest speaker, Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, held the audience captive with his inspiring words and recollections about the rav. He also wished continued hatzlachah to the shul, which is now under the leadership P h o t o B y I v a n H . N o r m a n

Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, the guest speaker, enthralled the audience with his inspiring and uplifting words. P h o t o B y I v a n H . N o r m a n

Rabbi Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz is following in the footsteps of his illustrious father, Rav Avrohom Blumenkrantz, zt’l, by assuming the role of mara d’asra in Bais Medrash Ateres Yisroel. of Rabbi Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz. After a delicious meal prepared by the Katz family of Elite Caterers, Rabbi Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz spoke with emotion about his late father and with determination to keep Bais Medrash Ateres Yisroel a vibrant and vital asset to our community. As a poignant video, titled Preserving the Legacy, was shown, many in the audience were moved to tears as they heard Rabbi Blumenkrantz’s voice echo- ing his plea for Mashiach to come and end this long galus. Those who attended were presented with a complimentary copy of the video to take home. O

Personal Training: Fitness And Nutrition By Zev Rhodes Why exercise is important: Exercise is important for maintaining physical fitness and it contributes to maintaining a healthy weight. It builds and

Continued on Page 60 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 59 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 59

maintains healthy bone density, muscle strength, and joint mobility. It pro- motes physiological well-being, reduces surgical risks, and strengthens the immune system. Frequent and regular aerobic exercise has been shown to help prevent or treat serious and life-threatening chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, insomnia, and depression. Strength Training vs. Cardio: Which burns more fat? Cardio’s edge: Calorie for calorie, cardio has a slight advantage. You’ll burn several more calories a minute running or cycling, compared to weight lifting. To burn the greatest amount of fat during your cardio workout you should raise your heart rate between 70% and 80% of your maxi- mum heart rate. Max HR= 220 – age. Strength’s edge: Lifting weights gives you a metabolic spike for an hour after a workout because your body is trying hard to help your muscles recover. That means you’ll burn an additional 25 percent of the calories you just scorched during your strength session. So, if you burned 200 calories lifting weights, it’s really closer to 250 overall. And if you lift heavier weights or rest no more than 30 seconds between sets, you can burn off even more calories. Until your muscles fully recover, you will be constantly using energy to rebuild the tissue, there- by almost always burning more calories, even on your day off. And there’s more good news. For every 3 pounds of muscle you build, you’ll burn an extra 120 calories a day doing nothing because muscle takes more energy to sustain. Over the course of a year, that’s about 10 pounds of fat without even changing your diet. Proper nutrition is as important to health as exercise. When exercising, it becomes even more important to have a good diet to ensure that the body has the correct ratio of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, protein) while providing ample micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) in order to aid the body with the recovery process following strenu- ous exercise. Proper rest and recovery are also important to health; otherwise the body exists in a permanently injured state and will not improve or adapt adequately to the exercise. Fitness & Nutrition Class. The Fitness and Nutrition class is a free class for anyone wishing to join. The class will cover the following topics. Aerobic/Anaerobic Training; Type 1 and 2 muscle fibers; Weight loss; Understanding energy levels; Carbohydrates, Fats, Protein, Vitamins, Minerals; Food label reading, and much more. The class will be held at 119 Doughty Blvd, Inwood in The Center For Individual Growth on January 7 at 8:00. (Limited seating, please call Zev at 347-387-0044 to reserve.) O

Zev Rhodes is a level 5 Personal Trainer. Having a private gym in Inwood, Zev trains men with arthritis, post rehab, obesity, energy deficiency, and men who simply want to get into or stay in shape. Zev can be reached at 347-387-0044 or at [email protected]. Separate hours for women with a woman trainer.

Continued on Page 63 60 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 61 62 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS often the first port of call for someone alarming complaint by parents who felt sive and concrete acts of goodness and Continued from Page 60 in distress. Community members more abandoned in the lack of Jewish and kindness. The campaign aims to typically approach a rabbi than a psy- Orthodox support groups. It immedi- empower record numbers of people Mental Health Training Courses chiatrist when confronting issues of ately became clear that practical exam- with the menorah lights’ inclusive mes- For Rabbis Now Under Way mental health. The challenge is that ples would not be hard to come by. sage of unity and goodness. Unite the Nearly 100 pulpit rabbis attended rabbis are, understandably, not always In his opening remarks, Manny Lights asks everyone to join at least one the inaugural lecture of the Advanced informed as a mental-health resource. Wertman, COO of OHEL, conveyed the public or communal menorah lighting Mental Health Training in Pastoral This speaks to the critical importance important message “that one should be and/or to plan one with their own fami- Counseling series in Brooklyn at the of collaboration and mental-health careful not to think that those with a ly and friends as a call to action. end of October. From substance abuse training amongst pulpit rabbis. psychiatric disorder are violent or even “The horrible events in Mumbai to religious conflict, suicide to premar- It is the purpose of this workshop have a propensity to be violent.” Mr. have provoked a universal outcry and ital counseling, the intense ten-session series to educate community rabbis to Wertman attributed this misunderstand- tremendous goodwill by people across course now under way, given over be more informed and sensitive to an ing largely to frequent media hype and the entire spectrum who want to do seven months, focuses on a breadth of array of mental-health issues, and to conveyed that the reality was that a men- something meaningful,” said Rabbi Eli mental-health issues affecting the empower such community leaders with tally ill individual was more likely to be a Goodman of the BACH Jewish Center. Jewish community. the tools of early detection to encourage victim than a perpetrator of violence. The grassroots appeal of Unite the The National Council of Young Israel’s professional referral without delay. Importantly, the set of sessions will Lights has sparked the interest of Division of Professional Development of Rabbis are not expected to treat, but to also focus on the burnout of rabbis celebrities and political figures who the Department of Rabbinic Services, in use their influence, help, and assist. themselves and the public life of a will carry the message on their own conjunction with Ohel Children’s Home Proving that real life is more illumi- rabbi today—a reflection of the com- personal YouTube videos where they and Family Services and Touro College, nating than fiction, rabbis were asked plexity of emotional and mental chal- share their personal thoughts about has developed a course of study in psy- to share some immediate cases they lenges that can be faced by all. their involvement and the resolutions chological and social issues as well as have had to confront. They told of a Upon completion of the ten-course they made. basic counseling skills. boy planning to kill his father; a bipolar curriculum, each participant will receive The City of Long Beach Unite the In today’s world, the rabbi is most diagnosis; community hysteria; and the a certificate from the National Council Lights event took place on Sunday, of Young Israel, Ohel, and Touro College. December 21 at 5:00 p.m., as a member Applications are available through of the Holtzberg family lit the menorah the NCYI office and are subject to in tribute to innocent victims of the review. Space is limited. For questions Mumbai tragedy. Many elected officials, or to request an application, please clergy, and other community leaders contact the National Council of Young and dignitaries were in attendance. Israel’s Department of Rabbinic The campaign also encourages peo- Services at 212-929-1525 ext. 113 or ple to share their resolution with others by e-mail at [email protected]. O by posting photos and video clips of their participation at a Unite the Lights Unite The Lights event, on www.unitethelights.com. The “Unite the Lights” is a global campaign has the broad-based support Chanukah campaign that seeks to direct of Jewish organizations and anticipates the groundswell of sympathy and soli- wide participation in this event. For darity in the aftermath of the Mumbai Manny Wertman, COO of OHEL, addressing attendees at the Pastoral Counseling workshop. tragedy towards a commitment to deci- Continued on Page 65

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 63 karate school, I have watched Scott telling me that there were many days change and grow. Each belt attained is a that you had to force yourself to train tremendous sense of accomplishment at your karate school at 5:00 a.m., but and the children carry over this sense of that you could not have won world pride and determination to everything karate championships if you had not AskBY WARREN The LEVISensei else they do. They become more forced yourself to train every day. I focused and goal-oriented. even recall you telling me that when In addition, Scott loves all of the you were injured, you did not use this Dear Sensei, given him the courage to conquer some instructors at Sensei Warren’s school as an excuse and still trained every day My son, Scott has been studying of his fears. It has defined the true and I know that Scott will be exposed by avoiding certain exercises. Shotokan Karate at Warren Levi meaning of focus and discipline. But to different martial arts in a safe and In Control Karate since January 2006. This com- more importantly, it has taught him that structured environment. Scott is in the When I received this e-mail, it moti- ing month will mark the third year with perseverance, patience, and prac- prestigious Black Belt Club and looks vated me to write an article metaphor- Scott has completed in his martial arts tice he can achieve his goals. forward to reaching this goal! ically describing a person’s brain as study. At Warren Levi Karate, we have In Scott’s words, “Karate is a million Felice Soifer Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of his watched Scott transform from a shy times better than TV.” These are Dear Sensei, physical body. Not everyone can be a and determined boy, to an outgoing extraordinary words coming from an I follow your articles in the 5TJT. I CEO of a business enterprise, but and confident “Karate Kid.” eight year old. Scott absolutely loves met you at shul many years ago when I everyone can be the CEO of his body. Karate has offered him the ability to karate and wishes that he could go to was visiting South Africa. I still exer- Once you employ your brain to be the tackle his weaknesses and recognize his the dojo every day instead of attending cise every day as a result of your advice CEO of your body, you can acquire strengths. Karate has strengthened both school. As his mom, I love karate for to me to force myself to let my brain be his body as well as his mind and it has very different reasons. At Warren Levi’s in control of my body. I remember you Continued on Page 66

64 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Mr. Chaim Leibtag, CEO of ing its clients the most luxuri- tennis courts and the world- The hotel recently completed a Continued from Page 63 the National Council of ous and delicious options, and famous Biltmore pool with pri- multimillion dollar renovation Young Israel and a trained this commitment has earned vate cabana suites. The scholar of rooms and public areas. The more information, contact David Project instructor. SKA Kosherica its sterling reputa- in residence will be Rabbi Deauville has beautiful ocean- BACH Jewish Center at 516- is honored to be one of the tion as the premier kosher Marc Schneier. front grounds including an 897-2473 or Chanukah@ first schools to offer this cruise and Passover company. Deauville Beach Resort, oversized pool. The scholar in bachyouth.com. O course to adults. Kosherica’s “Kosher Stimulus Miami Beach. This is where residence will be Rabbi Lamm. Other Rosen Israel Package” provides a five-star legends were made. The Canyon Ranch, Miami SKA Adds To Religious Programs in SKA this year vacation experience, plus Deauville was the center of Zionism Curriculum include an exhibit, “Sixty Years Kosherica’s renowned glatt Miami Beach’s glamorous 60s. Continued on Page 67 As part of the Irving and of Israel Before Yom kosher, cholov Yisrael, pas Toni Rosen Israel Studies Haatzmaut,” open to all Yisrael gourmet meals, at Program, the Stella K. schools, with research assign- affordable, recession-busting Abraham High School for ments given to students; a chi- prices: Passover starting at Girls is offering two courses don (contest) to learn about $2,150 and cruises at $999! about the State of Israel in the land of Israel, run by the “Times are tough,” says conjunction with the David Hebrew Department; and art Yehuda Shifman, Kosherica’s Project in Boston. projects with the map of Israel. owner and CEO, “So people Seeking to expand on their With the use of smart want to get real value for their mission to inculcate in their boards and multimedia pre- vacation dollar. That’s why students a love for and commit- sentations, the messages we’ve launched our Kosher ment to Am Yisrael, Torat about Eretz Yisrael are given Stimulus Package.” He con- Yisrael, and Medinat Yisrael, immediacy. SKA students are tinues, “We know there are SKA’s curriculum now includes constantly growing in their many options in kosher travel, the History of Israel, a new appreciation and knowledge but only Kosherica’s Kosher course in the 10th grade, taught of religious Zionism and their Stimulus Package can boast by Dr. Nicole Brackman, and ability to counter negative true five-star glatt kosher luxu- focusing on the historical devel- onslaughts of the media. O ry at affordable prices.” opment of Zionism. The 12th- “Kosher Stimulus” Passover grade course, Limudei Ha’aretz, Kosherica Announces options include: taught by Mrs. Sheila Leibtag, ‘Kosher Stimulus Package’ The Miami Biltmore Golf focuses on enabling seniors to Kosherica, worldwide lead- Resort and Spa. A place of ele- become confident Israel advo- ers in the kosher cruise and gance, beauty, and calm, the cates on college campuses and tour industry, is proud to Biltmore is a luxury golf and beyond. announce its “Kosher Stimulus spa resort located in the ele- SKA parents now also have Package,” a dazzling lineup of gant Coral Gables area of the opportunity to learn more luxury vacations for Passover Miami. The resort features about the State of Israel, 2009, and cruises year round. grand hotel rooms and suites, a using curriculum from the From breathtaking Israel to the world-class spa and fitness David Project. This three-ses- razzle dazzle of Miami Beach, center, an 18-hole Donald sion course is being taught by Kosherica is committed to giv- Ross-designed golf course, 10

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 65 ASK THE SENSEI Continued from Page 64

power and control over your body. To run a successful company, a CEO would be required: • To instill a healthy and disciplined management structure. It is important to have a structure in place regarding your food intake and your exercise reg-

Scott Soifer

imen. As CEO of your body, prepare a viable and operative healthy eating plan and disciplined exercise routine. • To ensure adherence to the management structures put in place. You should therefore manage your food and exercise regimens in such a way that your brain is in control. • To be observant of any existing bad policies and to immediately implement a shift in the organization to control this. As CEO of your body, you are able to rationalize what will trigger you to go “on a binge” and to deter- mine what excuses you use not to exercise. Have methods in place to shift your mindset when this occurs. Perhaps, it is necessary for you to eat an additional nutritious “extra meal” a day to ward off hunger pangs. Simply force yourself to go to your exercise class (once you have started exercising, you will be able to see it through to the end and will feel much more positive afterwards). • To have loyal and supportive staff in his/her organization. Ensure that your friends, family, and colleagues are supportive of you as you build up your new business of a healthy body. • To be a leader. Do not allow your emotions or bad habits to “lead you.” Once your brain leads, your appetite and discipline will be the followers. • To make decisions. Whereas a CEO of a business never has true control over another person, you have total self-control over your own body and image. • Not to be weak when confronted with constant challenges and competition in the business world. Similarly as CEO of your body, do not succumb to temptations. View the “cheesecake” as a challenge and take it on. Enjoy the “taste” of being the victor. If you decide to become the CEO of yourself, I am sure that you will enjoy the prosperous rewards of good health and well-being. O

Warren Levi may be contacted at 516-569-0808 or [email protected]. For more information about Warren Levi Karate & Mixed Martial Arts visit www.warrenlevikarate.com. 66 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 65

Beach. Stunning scenery, lavish accommodations, infi- nite pleasures, incredible dining—and that’s just at first glance. The Canyon Ranch, known for being the best spa in the U.S., has just completed a half-billion-dollar makeover. Rio Grande Gran Melia, Puerto Rico. Join Kosherica at the 5 star, AAA 4 diamond- rated Gran Melia Puerto Rico. Catering is by Prestige Caterers. All rooms are situat- ed in elegant individual two- story bungalows throughout the property amidst its spectacular gardens and tropical surroundings or facing the ocean. All Kosherica Passover programs include highly ac- claimed Passover cuisine, daily Orthodox religious services and lectures officiated by a rabbi scholar-in-residence, two magnificent sedarim, professional entertainment, and a full children’s program. “Kosher Stimulus” Cruises: Thirty cruises in 2009, including the first ever 6-star glatt kosher cruise to Israel and Egypt (August 11, aboard Oceania Cruise Line, the world’s most highly respected cruise operator). Luxury ships will sail to desti- nations around the world, including Spain, Greece, Italy, Russia, the Norwegian Fjords, Australia, Vietnam, and Alaska’s majestic Glacier Bay. The first voyages in the new year will take in the sights of the Panama Canal (January 18), Central America (January 18), and the Caribbean (January 18, 25, and February 25). All food is prepared under the strict supervision of the MGK (Maritime Glatt Kosher) and elegantly presented on china, white linen, and crystal. The scholar-in-residence program will include Rabbi Marvin Hier, Rabbi Shlomo Riskin, Rabbi Steven Wiel, and Rabbi Marc Schneier. Since its founding in 1996, Kosherica has hosted more Jewish cruises and Jewish cruise vacationers than all other kosher cruise compa- nies combined. 80% of their client base are repeat customers. “We believe in making our customers our family. We want this to be the best vacation they ever had,” says Yehuda Shifman, owner, “That’s why they always return.” Kosherica can be contacted at info@kosherica .com, by visiting www .Kosherica.com or by calling 877-724-5567. In Florida call 305-695-2700. O 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 67 68 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Your Ad Could Be Here

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 69 SERVICES CARS FOR SALE PROVIDED

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Owner 917-359-9776 West Lawrence — Open Houses Sunday The Five Towns much, much more. Price reduced. POR 12-2 p.m. Ced. — 3+ br apt, 1.5 bth, lg FDR, new Condos — New Construction Call Sherri 516-297-7995 EIK, on quiet street, walk to all . . . $2,200 1117 B. 12th St. Far Rockaway Gardens Jewish Times. Woodmere Park — Brand new N Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch in — Hi-end construction, granite EIK, MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. Mediterranean style construction. 6 BR, luxurious bths ...... $299K and up 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 3.5 Bths, kosher granit kitchen, Radiant 156 Beach 9th St. Sale/Rent — 2/3 bedrooms, luxurious designer kitchen and heat, Alarms, Camera equipped. POR Miami Alexander Hotel. 2 BR, 2 bths, Deadline is Monday bths. Steps from beach. magnificent ocean view, balcony, valet, Weissman Realty Group, LLC Milky Forst Properties Inc washer/dryer, beautifully furnished. at 5:00 p.m. 516-791-6100 516-239-0306 Short, long-term, Pesach. Call Shelly 516-481-7987 1 Week ...... $35 Far Rockaway: 2 Fam. All NU N. Wdmr:732 University St. . . . $739K 3 over 3 Br. 4Fbth, Dr, Full bsmt Nu 2 Mkt, MIC, Deco Dream, Nu Miami Alexander Hotel — Short or long All features ...... $779K Granite EIK, Nu Bths, Wtrvu, 4 BR, 2.5 term rental. 2 BR, 2 bths, luxury, 2 Weeks ...... $60 Call 516-263-6417 Bth, spa in yd. Shabbos elevator, swimming pool, bal- 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 4 Weeks...... $100 Far Rockaway/Lawrence: 2 BR/ 2 BA, cony, parking, beachfront. Newly Renovated, Dead-end street, Call Zeev Kolman 212-245-1715 Attention: Large property, corner or 917-287-5858 Price...... $539K Cedarhurst and Woodmere 150x100 apx. Weekly Ads of up to 25 words Call Owner: 516-750-9257 13 large rooms, 3 baths. Good for Lawrence — 18 Berkley Place kindergarten, elementary school, yeshi- Center hall col., 4 BR, 3 bths, stunning Lawrence — 18 Berkley Place va, synagogue, or other institution. Call: 516-569-0502 Center hall col., 4 BR, 3 bths, stunning Parking garage for 4 cars and 2 buses. cul-de-sac, best location. $4K monthly cul-de-sac, best location ...... $850K Immediate. Reasonable. Call Irene 516-652-7099 Fax: 516-977-0608 Call 516-902-0936 Owner 347-439-8234 Far Rockaway — Lg. Hse Rental: 4br, Or E-mail ads to: Hewlett — Col. MIC, 4br, 2bth, 2fpl, full Miami Beach — Tower 41. Ocean View. 2bth, bsmt., hi-ceilings, NU bths, W\D. deck, wood flr, Lg. den. Walk to all. 1 bdrm, 17th floor. Stunning. Call 516-322-3555 ...... $729K 732-522-0813 [email protected] 5 TOWN HOMES 516-322-3555 Far Rockaway: 2 Family. All NU, Classified Ads are Include payment info. Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth 3 over 1 Bdrm, 3 full baths. Great Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K Location ...... $599K Continued on the Next Page. Call 516-322-3555 Call 516-322-3555 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 71 CLASSIFIED ADS Continued from Page 71 FOR RENT MISCELLANEOUS MISCELLANEOUS FOR RENT Woodmere/Cedarhurst— 2 BR avail- FREE DIRECTV 4 Room System! 265 DIRECTV FREE 4 Room System! 265+ able. Secure buildings, new EIK, close Channels! Starts $29.99/month. Free Channels! Starts $29.99/month. Free to all and train station. HBO + Showtime + Starz! Free Call Sherri 516-297-7995 HBO + Showtime + Starz! Free Cedarhurst: Garden apt. Nu 2 Mkt. DVR/HD! 130 HD Channels! No Start Far Rockaway listings: DVR/HD! 130 HD Channels! No Start 2BR. 2Bth, Mint, 1st Flr, heat & prk Up Costs! Ends Soon! Local Installers! Neilson Street— Brand new construc- incld. $2,500. 1-800-306-1953 Up Costs! Ends Soon! Local Installers! tion. 3/ 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths central 5Town Homes 516-569-5710 1-800-973-9027 1-800-306-1953 air, laundry hook up, parking. No 1000 ENVELOPES= $10,000 guaranteed! Rental Fee. Call Avromy, 347-752-0948 1 BR apt for rent. Elevator building Receive $10 for every envelope stuffed WANT TO Purchase minerals and other near RR and houses of worship. 833 Central Avenue. 1 BR apt. secure wtih our sales material. Free 24 hour oil/gas interests. Send details to: Call Sonia 516-284-0262 doorman building Shabbos elevator. Call Sherri 516-297-7995 recorded information. 1-800-491-9377. P.O.Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201 Rockville Center — 3,500 sq ft, fully Plainview/ Beach 11— 4 BR, 2 bths, wired for WEB, partitioned, will divide. new construction, plenty of closets, Call 516-322-3555 washer/dryer hookup, parking, no rental fee. Reduced rent. Office for rent. Far Rockaway— 1600 Weissman Realty Group, LLC Central Avenue. First floor..6000 square 516-791-6100 feet. Available. Modern, elevator build- For the next issue, ing, fully built-out, reception area, Far Rockaway — 3 BR duplex apart- offices, conference room, men/women ment for rent, prime location. by owner bathrooms. Many non-profit tenants in 718-575-0100 the deadline for placing a building. Formally used by FEGS, good electric and AC systems, parking on Cedarhurst: Office rental: Executive 2 site, can be incorporated with sublevel Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., classified ad is and expanded to 12000 square feet. Call CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 718-375-9210 or 917-882-3404, e-mail [email protected] Cedarhurst — House Rental LR/FDR, den, 3br, 2.5bth, Fin. Bsmt . . . . . $2,300 Monday, December 29 Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, Call 516-322-3555 FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 at 5:00 P.M. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 FOR SALE Far Rockaway — Apartment available. Call 516-569-0502 Brand new construction. Furnished or unfurnished. 3 BR, 2bths. Cleaning and Silver Sony 20" flat screen tube TV laundry services available. Perfect for ...... $100 the elderly. Call Sherri 516-569-5450 Call 646-637-1310

72 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

who made good on Wall Street and even Jewish, the Modern Orthodox and Madoff And Rubashkin: brought the community pride by becom- Conservative movements have not ing chairman of Nasdaq. Rubashkin, by immediately launched a campaign, as contrast, was essentially a glorified they are doing with kosher meat, to A Contrast In Two Scandals shochet and butcher, the country’s evaluate firms that invest Jewish BY SHMULEY BOTEACH hundreds of illegal immigrants. But largest producer of kosher meat. money to ensure that they conform to Bernie Madoff allegedly ripped off $50 Rubashkin’s beard and black hat were the highest ethical norms in terms of When I was chosen this year to serve billion and took scores of Jewish chari- enough to unnerve many Jews. But that treatment of employees and (over)com- alongside Queen Rania of Jordan, ties to the cleaners, including the Elie his missteps at Agriprocessors highlight- pensation of deadbeat executives? Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Wiesel Foundation for Humanity. Yet ed what others consider the unsavory Why is it that only kosher meat is Richard Branson as one of the judges he’s sitting under house arrest at his $10 sight of Jewish ritual slaughter all but being singled out as being in need of for CNN’s Heroes, I met and befriended million East Side apartment! Rubashkin guaranteed Rubashkin’s total abandon- ethical reform? I suggest it is because an incredible woman named Carolyn and his wife Leah long ago surrendered ment at the hands of American Jewry. the Jewish community has an obvious Lecroy who runs the Messages Project, their passports to federal authorities, This explains why, in sharp contrast sense of discomfort with ritual obser- which videotapes prison inmates read- not to mention the fact that he was pre- to what is developing in the kosher vances that the non-Jewish world finds ing bedtime stories and communicating viously fitted with a GPS ankle bracelet. meat industry, there has been no move confusing or distasteful, rather than the with their children. As I watched So why did the judge deny a multimil- afoot to establish something akin to Jewish money machine, which, when it Carolyn’s work together with my own lion dollar bail package offered for his “Hechsher Tzedek,” a rabbinic certifi- works soundly, everyone rather enjoys. children on the DVD that CNN sent release, with 32 people offering mort- cate of ethical excellence, for financial To be sure, Judaism commands the me, tears streamed down from all of our gages on their homes to back the bond? institutions. After all, how is it that highest ethical treatment of animals, eyes. We immediately identified with In his November 20 decision, feder- when so many of the people going to the millions of children who have done al magistrate Jon Stuart Scoles offered jail from Wall Street turn out to be Continued on Page 74 no wrong but whose parents’ incarcera- the astonishing and disquieting ration- tion brings them unending suffering. ale that Rubashkin is a flight risk In this spirit, consider the case of because “under Israel’s Law of Return, Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin, the for- any Jew and members of his family mer chief executive of Agriprocessors who have expressed their desire to set- in Postville, Iowa, who has been denied tle in Israel will be granted citizen- bail and is being detained pending trial ship.” Huh? A federal judge designates in the Dubuque County jail, where his 5.5 million American Jews as potential wife can visit him once a week for 25 flight risks due to Israel’s Law of minutes and communicate only Return, and the Jewish community through videoconferencing. She is responds with silence? charged with looking after their ten It is possible that there are uncharita- children on her own, including their ble motives behind the absence of any 15-year-old autistic son, Moishe. Jewish outrage to a ruling with poten- What could this rabbi have done that tially devastating consequences to our would cause the justice system to be so community’s basic rights. Until he harsh? To be sure, the charges against imploded, Bernie Madoff was in a busi- him are serious, including child labor ness Jews consider sophisticated and violations and knowingly employing noble—finance. He was a secular Jew

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 73 Two Scandals mal doesn’t suffer. I for one hatred that Jewry feels for eerily like Germany just Goldman’s sister Leah married Continued from Page 73 applaud many of PETA’s goals Rubashkin cannot be com- before the rise of Hitler.” a young rabbinical student of ensuring humane treat- pletely divorced from his pro- Burg adds that “the Israeli from a Lubavitch family distin- including the commandment ment of animals, even as I fession as a giant kosher government would probably guished for its pedigree and to feed one’s livestock and decry some of its more radical butcher, any more than secu- soon pass the equivalent of vast philanthropy, including a pets before oneself. Indeed, a means, like their comparison lar Israelis’ natural scorn for the Nuremberg laws, with decades-old soup kitchen in basic requirement of shechi- of the slaughter of animals to the bearded settlers can be provisions like a prohibition Brooklyn that fed thousands. tah is the severing of an ani- the slaughter of Jews in the completely divorced from on marriage between Jews His name was Sholom mal’s carotid artery, leading to Holocaust. their view of them as religious and Arabs.” Mordechai Rubashkin, and sudden death so that the ani- But let’s be honest—the fanatics who are obstacles to Now who is more of a there was great chatter in our peace. Consider the fact that fanatic? The settlers or Burg, yeshiva because Leah was a Israelis have expressed no who equates Israel with ba’alas teshuvah (returnee to strong outrage against former Hitler but is largely given a Judaism). I had never met him, Knesset speaker Avrum Burg, pass because of his essential- but respected him for rejecting who published a book, highly secular bearing (diminu- some of the sillier ideas inher- lighted in the New York Times tive yarmulke notwith- ent in Orthodox courtship, recently, suggesting that standing)? including the fact that those “Israeli Arabs are like German When I was a teenager at a from religious backgrounds do Jews during the Second Reich Chabad yeshiva in Los not marry those who are new and that the entire society felt Angeles, my friend Dovid to Jewish observance. Those who read my columns know that I can be a sharp crit- ic of this kind of Orthodox excess. Still, I have always been extremely proud of my faith, just as I have encouraged my Christian and Islamic brothers and sisters to be proud of theirs. If Rubashkin is guilty, he will pay a terrible price. But our rejection of him as some kind of fiend before he even goes to trial says more about us than it does about him. (JPost.com) O

74 December 26, 20088 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Menorah Lighting In Long Beach Supporting Kulanu Photos By Richard Lobell Photography

At Kulanu’s Annual Scholarship Dinner on December 20, celebrating “One Heart, One Goal, One Community,” over 300 guests were treated to a gala evening of dairy delights, live entertainment, and an auction and raffles. A day of physical activity, from Wide numbers of Kulanu Young chicken dancing and parachute Leadership newcomers enjoyed the games to special olympics, for the night on the town. Proceeds from kids at Kulanu’s Sunday Acitivities the event support programs and Program on December 14. services aimed at including Above: At Chabad’s public menorah light- To learn more about Kulanu, please children with special needs into ing in Long Beach on Sunday night visit www.kulanukids.org. the fabric of our community. (L–R) are City Council Vice-President Mona Goodman, Legislator Denise Ford, N NN Mr. and Mrs. Rusgo of Lido Beach Synagogue, Rabbi Avrohom Holtzberg (brother of Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg, a’h), At left, teens from Kulanu’s SNAP Rabbi Eli Goodman of the BACH Jewish (Saturday Night Activities Program) Center, Councilmember Lenny Remo, having a quick bite with friends Councilmember Denise Tagney, Rabbi between roller-skating sessions at Gradofsky of Temple Israel, Roni Kleinman HotSkates in Lynbrook on of the Long Beach JCC, and Lenny Ross December 13. of Temple Israel. Left: Rabbi Avrohom Holtzberg and Rabbi Eli Goodman. N N N

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES December 26, 2008 75 76 December 26, 2008 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES