ב”ה
IN APPRECIATION OF George ^ Pamela Rohr
DEDICATEDIn the merit of IN bringing LOVING the conceptMEMORY of the OF National Jewish Retreat to fruition and their ongoing efforts to bring theMr. love ofSami Torah toRohr Jews worldwide, ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ר‘ ,happiness שמואל ,health ב’ר with יהושע they be blessed אליהו mayז’ל nachas from all their loved ones and Patron and benefactor of Torah extraordinary success in all their endeavors. institutions the world over, marking his second yahrtzeit on Program Guide י’ז מנחם אב xה’תשע”ד August 13, 2014 And in loving memory of
2 3 Mr. Sami Rohr ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: x ר‘ of שמואל ב”ר in appreciation יהושע Andאליהו ז”ל Patron and benefactor of Torah George ^ Pamela Rohr institutions the world over, In the merit of bringing the concept of the marking his second yahrtzeit on National Jewish Retreat to fruition and their ongoing efforts י”ז מנחם אב ה’תשע”ד to bring the love of Torah to Jews worldwide, August 13, 2014 may they be blessed with health, happiness, Nachas from all their loved ones and extraordinary success in all their endeavors.
www.JRetreat.com • 1-877-JRetreat :
THE ROHR JEWISH LEARNING INSTITUTE AUGUST 6–10, 2014 • 10–14 AV, 5774 822 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11213 PALMER HOUSE HILTON 718-221-6900 • www.myJLI.com Chicago, Illinois ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Welcome
Shalom, and welcome to the ninth annual National Jewish Retreat. The Torah study at this year’s retreat is dedicated in .ר‘ שמואל ב”ר יהושע אליהו ז”ל ,loving memory of Mr. Sami Rohr Our exceptional faculty members come from all over the world to bring you the best in Jewish learning. Our presenters are leaders in their fields and include rabbis, scholars, scientists, musicians, authors, and political pundits. Program Highlights: Our program offers you a wide variety of topics, and the sessions vary in style from lecture to interactive to pure entertainment. In order to help you customize your experience, we have classified each session according to style:
B These sessions are designed to challenge your mind. P These sessions include hands-on activities or will provide practical guidance and insight into action-oriented Jewish practices. H These sessions present human interest stories and talks that stir your emotions, ignite your soul, and move your spirit. M Jewish Medical Ethics Track Medical technology is advancing at a rapid pace, and the ethical questions it raises demand a Jewish response. Patients and their families face unprecedented challenges. Medical professionals grapple with their own dilemmas concerning these emerging treatments and encounter extraordinary circumstances. This series of lectures on Jewish Medical Ethics will prime doctors and laymen alike to embrace the future of ethical medicine. W Rosh Chodesh Society Women’s Day Program : Dedicated in honor of Elana Leah bas Rochel Shaindel. May she be blessed with a complete and speedy recovery. The Rosh Chodesh Society’s full-day seminar focuses exclusively on the Jewish woman, featuring a series of lectures and workshops that explore the role of the modern woman in an ancient religion, ensuring a brighter future for the Jewish people.
2 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Welcome
L Jewish Law Conference The forum will compare and contrast the civil and Talmudic legal perspectives on relevant, hot-button issues. It includes interactive discussions between participating attorneys and legal experts on current, new, and emerging ethical issues from a Jewish and common law perspective. Through thoughtful analysis of a wide range of topics, lawyers can expand their understanding of modern-day ethical and moral concerns. S Beit Midrash The unique study method, perfected in the great Jewish academies of ancient Babylonia and Israel, has lived on in yeshivahs across the globe. Now it makes its way to the Retreat in the Beit Midrash series, a collection of classes that departs from the usual lecture format and invites you to experience authentic yeshivah-style learning. The chavruta system pairs students together to study the original texts, encouraging them to sharpen their critical thinking skills as they probe, question, and discover. The chavruta session is followed by a shiur, a class that reviews the material and further explores the topic. R Roundtable An opportunity for a small group of interested participants to partake in an intimate dialogue with the speaker on subjects of their choosing. These sessions are limited, so be sure to show up early. C Sinai Scholars Symposium The Sinai Scholars Mentor-Protégé Program pairs college students with mentors to research literature related to a Jewish topic of their choice, to develop an innovative approach and fine-tune the idea to articulate its modern-day relevance. Enjoy a unique opportunity to discuss and debate the ideas our finalists have passionately researched. You will hear from academics as they share their thoughts, questions, and feedback.
Tune In and Enjoy Tune in to channel 58 in your rooms to learn how you can continue your Retreat experience upon your return home, through additional JLI educational offerings. WiFi For your convenience, there is a free WiFi connection in the main lobby and in the tearoom. While you’re connected, don’t forget to“check in” to the National Jewish Retreat on Facebook!
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1 WABASH 5 MADISON 9 CRESTHILL
2 INDIANA 6 MARSHFIELD 10 SALON 12
3 KIMBALL 7 WILSON
4 LOGAN 8 CRYSTAL
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3 WATER TOWER PARLOR
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Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
x Dr. & Mrs. Jerome & Shaindel Kasle Mr. & Mrs. Yitzchok & Leah Gniwisch Mr. & Mrs. Dovi and Ruthie Sperlin Ellen Marks Dr. Michael S. Maling & Mrs. Beatrice Crain of the Crain-Maling Foundation The Scan Group Locke Lord, LLP Greenberg Traurig, LLP Katten Muchin Rosenman, LLP Much Shelist, P.C.
Schiller DuCanto & Fleck LLP
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August 6 / 10 Av Wednesday Wednesday
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 9 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 9:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m. Breakfast Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Registration Mezzanine
11:00 a.m. H Finding Your Mission in Life Monroe, 6th Floor Charlie Harary Without some greater goal to aim for, life is a boring cycle of sleep, eat, work, repeat. We each have a mission, something that drives us and gives meaning to our lives. Living with this awareness adds color to grey, spice to the bland. Discover how we can connect to our purpose as individuals, and as part of our nation. B The Chassidic Personality Test Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Chaya Epstein Forget Briggs Myers. To get a true glimpse of your personality, it’s time to enter the fascinating work of the sefirot, the ten character traits that form who we are. Kindness, pride, fortitude; we’re each a composite of these ten building blocks. Knowing what they are and how they work helps us better understand ourselves and the people around us. S What in the World Are the Four Worlds? Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Baruch Epstein Chassidic philosophy abounds with references to the four worlds. What are they? Where are they? And how do they help us understand life? Delve into original Chassidic texts and study these fundamental ideas at their source.
10 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 12:15 p.m.
L The Case for Israel and Jerusalem Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, Alyza Lewin Moderated by Harold L. Kaplan It’s a sixty-year-old question that the world still insists on asking: Does Israel have a legal or ethical right to exist? Do historical bonds count for anything in modern law? What about competing claims to the land? This session takes a compelling look at the complex legal issues surrounding Israel and its capital, Jerusalem.
12:15 p.m. S How to Maximize Your Retreat Experience Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Shais Taub How can we stop information from going in one ear and out the other? This rich talk draws on pedagogical principles found in Tanya, which will facilitate taking full advantage of the lessons learned at the Retreat. The goal of Torah learning is not just to encounter it, but to integrate with it and take the lessons with us into our lives. This lecture outlines how. S Seekers of the Lost Ark Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Flinkenstein Hidden deep in the Temple Mount in Jerusalem is the Ark of the Covenant. For thousands of years this Temple treasure has lain shrouded in darkness and mystery. What exactly does it look like? Where is it? When will it be discovered? Join in a detailed study of the Maimonidean texts that will lead us to the answers. L King Solomon’s Sword: Jewish Ethics of Shared Child Custody Water Tower Parlor, 6th Floor Honorable Grace Dickler, Rabbi Yona Reiss Moderated by Donald C. Schiller In the event of divorce, how does a court decide the fate of the children? Join a timely discussion with Judge Dickler and Rabbi Reiss on the rights of fathers and mothers—and protecting the best interests of the children—comparing the legal position to the Torah perspective.
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L Religion in the Public Domain: Supreme Court, 2014—Town of Greece v. Galloway Adams, 6th Floor Nathan Lewin, Professor Sheldon Nahmod Moderated by Michael H. Traison A 2014 U.S. Supreme Court decision, permitting chaplains to open legislative sessions with a prayer, set the legal world on fire. Was it a victory for religious freedom or a blow to the Establishment Clause? The law aside, what ethics underlie this gripping debate? Two of America’s leading constitutional scholars make their case. M Final Moments: End-of-Life Decisions and Jewish Law Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Tzvi Flaum Introduction by Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman The value of life is immeasurable—but is the same true for its increments? Are the medical advances some see as life- supporting in fact simply death-prolonging? This session discusses important end-of-life decisions many families face today, and offers the Jewish perspective on dying with dignity. P Sima’s Creative Confections Logan, 3rd Floor Sima Silverstein Learn from the master confectioner, Sima Silverstein, the secrets to creating breathtaking and sensational Royal Icing cookies. This hands-on workshop will teach you to decorate like a pro so that at your next party you can design your own beautiful creations and impress your guests. Each participant will leave with her own set of uniquely designed cookies. This class is suited for the beginner decorator, and will also challenge the more advanced. Skills will include icing consistency, techniques for outlining, flooding, quilting, wet on wet techniques, and more.
12 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 1:15 p.m.
1:15 p.m. Lunch Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Steven B. Nasatir David T. Brown
2:30 p.m. H The Brains behind the Book Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz Interview by Mrs. Molly Resnick A discussion with Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, author of My Rebbe. S Do I Exist? Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shais Taub It’s a funny question, but not to the theist. If G-d not only created the world, but the very concept of existence, then do I really exist as an independent person? Am I not just a figment of G-d’s imagination? These basic but gripping philosophical questions are tackled and resolved in this in- depth study of traditional Chassidic texts.
P AquaTread (for Women) Pool Malkie Raskas AquaTread™ is a unique comprehensive total body cardiovascular aquatic workout that develops, strengthen and tones muscles, burns fat, significantly improves range of motion and flexibility, and builds stamina, all with no stress on joints and little muscle fatigue. It is the fitness program of the future, available to you today. This session requires swim attire.
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L Merchants of Venice: The Ethics of Debt Insolvency Adams, 6th Floor Harvey Miller, Steven Resnicoff, James Sprayregen Moderated by Judge Jack B. Schmetterer When large corporations cannot meet their obligations, the livelihood of thousands of families, the financial health of numerous creditors, and sometimes the economy of entire cities are at stake. How can attorneys help ensure the best possible outcome and avoid economic disaster—and what’s Jewish law’s view of responsibility for debt? Don’t miss this enlightening panel discussion with two of the nation’s leading restructuring attorneys and a legal scholar. M A Heart Quandary: Turning Off the Pacemaker Madison, 3rd Floor Dr. Alan Kadish Millions of Americans are walking around with implanted pacemakers and defibrillators. When should these devices be deactivated to allow nature to take its course? This session addresses this important question from the perspective of Jewish ethics, and sheds light on similar end- of-life medical quandaries.
3:45 p.m. H Cries of Joy at the Wailing Wall Water Tower Parlor, 6th Floor Avraham Duvdevani Interview by Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie On June 7, 1967, the Israel Defense Forces captured the Temple Mount and returned it to Jewish hands for the first time in two thousand years. One of the first people to reach the holy stones of the Wall was a young soldier named Avraham Duvdevani. We travel with him through the winding streets of Jerusalem, racing toward the Wall as gunfire rings out, on the way to liberate the eternal heart of the Jewish people.
14 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 3:45 p.m.
B Hobbits and Hebrews: The Biblical Vision of J.R.R. Tolkien Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik J.R.R. Tolkien’s books about Hobbits, dwarfs, wizards, and elves are known to millions around the world. What is not well-known is the Jewish link to his stories—and how that knowledge can impact our appreciation of Judaism today. S Can a Hamburger Be Holy? Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shais Taub Judaism is not stuck in the synagogue. It affects everything in our lives. Everything we touch must be made holy. The way we eat, the way we sleep, the way we do business, but should there be a limit to our attempts to sanctify the mundane? What can we try to uplift, and what must be left alone? This class is a textual study of Judaism’s quest to engage the physical world in spirituality.
P Pilates (for Women) Salon 1, 3rd Floor Malkie Raskas This Pilates group provides an engaging environment and opportunities for individual guidance and attention. Outstanding for both beginners and advanced exercise enthusiasts, classes focus on developing core strength and flexibility, as well as building muscle, which helps to facilitate weight loss. L Tevye and the Rich Man: Investments, Partnerships, and the Ethics of Business Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, Jack Levin Moderated by Jerry H. Biederman Joint business ventures and financial investments are serious business. How does one protect one’s financial investments and ensure the best return while maintaining high ethical standards? Jack Levin, a prominent business attorney, who wrote the textbook on venture capital and entrepreneurial investments, will share effective legal strategies. Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe will provide the Jewish legal perspective on the ethics of financial partnerships and business investments.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 15 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 5:00 p.m.
L Taking Doctors to Task: M The Ethics of Medical Malpractice Lawsuits Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman, Professor David Hyman Are doctors being unfairly targeted with malpractice lawsuits? Are these lawsuits driving up the cost of medical care and limiting its availability? Professor Hyman, a leading national authority on health law, will analyze the problems and benefits of the medical malpractice system. Rabbi Dr. Reichman will discuss Jewish law’s perspective on the accountability of doctors as healers in their communities. P Sima’s Creative Confections Logan, 3rd Floor Sima Silverstein Learn from the master confectioner, Sima Silverstein, the secrets to creating breathtaking and sensational Royal Icing cookies. This hands-on workshop will teach you to decorate like a pro so that at your next party you can design your own beautiful creations and impress your guests. Each participant will leave with her own set of uniquely designed cookies. This class is suited for the beginner decorator, and will also challenge the more advanced. Skills will include icing consistency, techniques for outlining, flooding, quilting, wet on wet techniques, and more.
5:00 p.m. L Talmudic Ethics: How an Ancient Value System Informs Modern Practice Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz Interview by Gil Soffer Throughout the generations, the Talmud has long been the moral compass of Jews and non-Jews alike. But few of us today deal with goring oxen, clay vessels, or our neighbor’s fruit tree. What do the ethical principles of Jewish law contribute to our lives in an era of sophisticated financial markets, intangible intellectual property and digital communication? P Orientation 3rd Floor Please find the room labeled with the number on your name tag. A series of community building and ice-breaker exercises.
16 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Wednesday / 6:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m. Minchah Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor
6:15 p.m. Dinner State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Daniel I. Schlessinger Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet
8:00 p.m. L Keynote Panel: Waterboarding, NSA Snooping, and the War on Terror in U.S. Courts Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, Mrs. Devorah Halberstam, Nathan Lewin, Michael Mukasey Moderated by Walter D. Jacobson Protecting our country from suicidal religious fanatics who target civilians as they go about their daily life is a daunting task. Add to it the restrictions placed by respecting civil liberties and presuming innocence, and we seem particularly vulnerable to another September 11. Our esteemed panel will discuss this conflict from the American law, Jewish law and ethical perspectives. B Apollo 613: The Jewish View of Space and Science Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe : Dedicated By Jennifer Pick in memory of her grandparents, Austin Hannam and Lester and Marie Pick The Torah focuses on humanity’s role in this world. Does it say anything about life on other planets? Does Judaism believe in extraterrestrial life? And what is the overall Jewish approach to science? The answers to these questions provide crucial insight into a seldom explored area. H Movie: Peace Upon the Land Adams, 6th Floor A flashback to Israel’s military successes and failures, Peace Upon the Land spells out a clear formula for peace and security in the Middle East. The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s messages during these trying times contain timeless lessons for contending with any circumstance.
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9:15 p.m. H Am I Happy Yet? (Will Someone Please Make Up My Mind?) Wilson, 3rd Floor Herschel Lazaroff Do we really know what makes us happy? Are our daily actions in line with this goal? And is happiness real or imagined? This lecture shakes up the common conceptions of what brings us happiness—money, success, recognition— and gives us an entirely new understanding of what brings us true joy. B Crossfire! Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Shais Taub, Rabbi Asher Crispe, Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe Moderated by Mrs. Molly Resnick Join this panel of insightful Jewish minds as they address the most important issues of the day. Explore weighty issues with these highly intelligent and knowledgeable scholars. No subject too controversial, no challenge shirked. H Sacred Shepherds: Moses and the Lubavitcher Rebbe Monroe, 6th Floor Dr. Simcha Leibovich A piercing look at why some leaders succeed and others fail. Those at the helm greatly affect their communities, and even entire generations. What makes a layman into a leader, a civilian into a captain? This lecture examines the impact of two towering leaders in Jewish history—Moses and the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
10:15 p.m. Maariv Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor
18 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 9:15 p.m.
August 7 / 11 Av Thursday
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7:00 a.m. B Dusting Off the Siddur Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Chaim Block In this lecture Rabbi Chaim Block will unravel the deep mysteries of the Jewish prayer book, presenting an overview of the order of prayers and the siddur’s structure. From the indecipherable siddur of the Kabbalists, to the 1486 Soncino print, discover the story of this special book that has served our people so faithfully. W Awakenings! Movement for the Soul Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Chavi Epstein Let the teachings of Chassidut flow into your prayers and inspire your personal conversation with G-d.
7:00 a.m.
P Awakenings! Movement for the Body (for Women) Kimball, 3rd Floor Malkie Raskas This Pilates group provides an engaging environment and opportunities for individual guidance and attention. Outstanding for both beginners and advanced exercise enthusiasts, classes focus on developing core strength and flexibility, as well as building muscle, which facilitates weight loss.
7:30 a.m. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Women Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Chavi Epstein Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d.
20 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 8:00 a.m.
Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Men Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Chaim Block Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Advanced Service Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor A traditional minyan, designed for men and women fluent in Hebrew reading who regularly participate in organized prayer.
8:00 a.m. Breakfast State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
9:15 a.m. B The Founding Father at the Chupah: A Reflection on America’s Founding Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik In 1787 a signer of the Declaration of Independence attended a Jewish wedding in Philadelphia. His incredible letter describing this event affords us a deeper appreciation of the Jewish marriage ceremony—and of the founding of America. B The Separation of Synagogue and State Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Yona Reiss, Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe Moderated by Rabbi Baruch Epstein Does Jewish law have its own version of the First Amendment? Does Judaism legislate itself out of the public square? Would it challenge this most American of values? Explore the Torah’s perspective of one of today’s most polarizing issues: the clash between religion and government.
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B Exploring the Mystical Dimensions Wabash, 3rd Floor Dr. Yaakov Brawer An introduction to the unique world of the maamar—the Chassidic discourse. Using the text from the maamar, “V’yivchar Lanu” Dr. Brawer will introduce you to the style, method and process involved in understanding the profound and mystical meanings embedded within ostensibly simple verses and ideas in Jewish tradition, and how these meanings are illuminated through the lens of Chassidic thought. M Why Be Ethical? B Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz Interview by Dr. David I. Koenigsberg, MD : Dedicated in tribute to the memory of Dovid Shmuel ben Zalman Gershon Rock Why is there a need for a universal system of ethics? Isn’t a good conscience enough? Do the right intentions guarantee good moral decisions? This discussion with Talmudic scholar Rabbi Adin Even Yisroel Steinsaltz will explore the Jewish perspectives on classic ethical quandaries, and provide an ethical base for making even the most difficult decisions. W PRAY TELL! Text Messages —A Text-Based Study of Personal Prayer Wilson, 3rd Floor Mrs. Feige Slavaticki Prayer is a personal conversation with G-d with infinite potential. By looking closely at the prayer liturgy, we discover how to initiate this conversation, sustain it, and how to get the most out of it. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shais Taub
22 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 10:30 a.m.
10:30 a.m. B For G-d and Country: Jewish Life in Public Service Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Michael Mukasey Interview by Nathan Lewin When President George W. Bush nominated Michael B. Mukasey to be the 81st Attorney General of the United States, it was not a responsibility that the Orthodox Mukasey took lightly. How was Mukasey, as attorney general, and as a federal judge before that, shaped by his deeply held Jewish beliefs and ideas? H Reclamation of the Millennial Generation Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski : Dedicated By Jennifer Pick in memory of her grandparents, Austin Hannam and Lester and Marie Pick Are they that bad? Is the current generation, the Millennials, really as narcissistic as accused? Is there a glimpse of selflessness to be seen in the thicket of reality TV shows, tweets, and selfies? This talk makes a powerful case for the potential of today’s youth to be the most sensitive and empathetic in history. Find out how we can give inspiration to this scorned generation. B The Kabbalistic Origins of Liberalism and Conservatism Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Asher Crispe The level of political tension between liberals and conservatives seems to be continually intensifying. Which side is the Torah on, or is there even a Torah side? How can we heal this rift? In this session we will strive to uncover the roots of an authentically Jewish view of political science, while simultaneously contemplating its relevance to the modern world. S Sound the Great Shofar Wabash, 3rd Floor Dr. Yaakov Brawer A detailed analysis of the Maamar—Chassidic Discourse— “V’yivchar Lanu.” Dr. Brawer will lead the group on a journey into the depths of the profound and mystical meanings hidden within the mitzvah of sounding the shofar on Rosh Hashanah.
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M Pro-Life or Pro-Choice? Jewish Perspectives on the Beginning of Life Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Tzvi Flaum In this session we will address abortion, one of the most polarizing issues in contemporary discourse, from the perspective of Jewish law and ethics. Does a woman always have the right to terminate her pregnancy? Or does life begin at conception, and is destroying a fetus tantamount to murder? W Glass Ceilings in Ivory Towers: Women and Torah Education Crystal, 3rd Floor Mrs. Sara Lieberman The previous century witnessed the revolution of Torah study for women. As the Jews emerged from the shtetl to the free world, the Jewish woman emerged from the home into the classroom. This content-rich and inspiring lecture examines authentic ancient Torah education as it applies to the contemporary Jewish woman. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Charlie Harary
11:45 a.m. H Jewish Response to Terror Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Mrs. Devorah Halberstam When Devorah Halberstam lost her son to a terrorist attack on American soil, she set out on a mission to memorialize her son’s memory, building a slew of institutions that stretch across the world. B Love Tales from the Talmud Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Dov Greenberg In the thick tomes of the Talmud are buried stories of romance and courtship that rival today’s best novels. It seems that the sages were as much experts in affairs of the heart as they were in Jewish law. But what lessons do these heartwarming episodes have for us? Can the flame of love that flickered centuries ago cast light on our lives today?
24 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 11:45 a.m.
H Strategies of Success Crystal, 3rd Floor Charlie Harary Where does success lie? Is it innate or can it be learned? This talk delves into the science, psychology, and spirituality that can empower you to find more success in the things that matter most to you. S Why Yom Kippur Is Just like Purim Wabash, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Cohen Believe it or not, the silliest and most serious day of the Jewish year have a lot in common. Find out why in this textual analysis of the antithetical yet overlapping components of Purim and Yom Kippur. Understanding the appropriate times and places for revelry and seriousness in Jewish law and philosophy will foster a closer relationship with our Creator. M The Stem Cell Debate: A Jewish Perspective Wilson, 3rd Floor Dr. Alan Kadish Breakthroughs in stem cell research have caused much excitement about the vast potential of using embryonic stem cells to cure various diseases. But what are the moral implications of destroying these embryos in the process? What is the Jewish view? Should an embryo in a Petri dish be considered a life? W Comedy and Healing Monroe, 6th Floor Ms. Saranne Rothberg Three students walk into a bar. Nope, that’s not the beginning of your weekend, but a joke—and Saranne Rothberg has plenty of them. Look on the bright (and funny) side of life with the founder of the ComedyCures Foundation, the acclaimed organization that brings joy, laughter, and therapeutic humor to kids and grown-ups living with illness. You’ll also learn to put the power of humor to good use in your own interactions.
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R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Mrs. Molly Resnick
C Sinai Scholars Academic Symposium
Salon 12, 3rd Floor Panelists: Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, Dr. Simcha Leibovich, Professor Richard L. Kaplan, Dr. Richard Herman The Sinai Scholars Mentor-Protégé Program is a research initiative that seeks out gifted young scholars from college campuses across North America and brings them together for creative collaboration in a one-to-one mentoring relationship. With the guidance of a mentor, students research literature related to a Jewish topic of their choice, to develop an innovative approach and fine- tune the idea to articulate its modern-day relevance. Ideas are presented in a research paper for review by an academic panel, and finalists present their research papers before scholars and businesspeople during this national symposium session. Enjoy a unique opportunity to discuss and debate the ideas our finalists have passionately researched.
• The Existence of Evil and Theodicy Alexa August, University of Delaware
• The Infinity of the Finite: Using Jewish Text in Conjunction with Spinoza’s Ethics to Understand G-d’s Presence Oren Lefkowitz, Concordia University
P Sima’s Creative Confections Logan, 3rd Floor Sima Silverstein Learn from the master confectioner, Sima Silverstein, the secrets to creating breathtaking and sensational Royal Icing cookies. This hands-on workshop will teach you to decorate like a pro so that at your next party you can design your own beautiful creations and impress your guests. Each participant will leave with her own set of uniquely designed cookies. This class is suited for the beginner decorator, and will also challenge the more advanced. Skills will include icing consistency, techniques for outlining, flooding, quilting, wet on wet techniques, and more.
26 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 1:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. Lunch State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
2:15 p.m. H Diamonds: The Legacy of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s social, religious, and educational campaigns all drew from one unshakeable belief: the infinite value of the individual Jew. Learn how, in a movement that quickly grew to encompass thousands of people and places, the Rebbe’s focus always remained on the single Jew—and the conviction that he or she is worth the world. B The Ages of the World: The Thirteen Cycles of Time and the Dating of the Cosmos Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Asher Crispe We hear plenty about the fiery debates between New World creationism and macro-evolutionary cosmology. As it turns out, neither of these views sufficiently describes the age of the world. Join us as we discuss a multitude of opinions and how, in totality, they respond to what has seemed to be the unanswerable question. S The Four Guardians Wabash, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shais Taub Jewish law has a highly sophisticated system that governs the responsibilities of the guardian of another person’s property. Is he liable for the loss or damage to the property? If so, to what extent? Why? This yeshivah-style, beginner- friendly workshop traces the development of the law from its Talmudic origins to its current application.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 27 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 2:15 p.m.
M Genetics and the Jewish Family Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman Of all the medical advances in the 21st century, few have impacted the Jewish community more than the field of genetics. From adult carrier testing to fetal testing, to the incorporation of DNA testing into Jewish law, to pre- implantation genetic diagnosis, this session will explore the modern world of genetics from a Jewish perspective. W Well Bread Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor Mrs. Sara Briman, Mrs. Dinie Rapoport This hands-on challah baking workshop, showcases Mrs. Sara Briman of Mexico City, Mexico, winner of the prestigious American Academy of Hospitality Sciences’ Five-Star Diamond Award for the best challah in the world! R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Mr. George Rohr
C Sinai Scholars Academic Symposium
Salon 12, 3rd Floor Panelists: Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, Dr. Simcha Leibovich, Professor Richard L. Kaplan, Dr. Richard Herman
• Old Traditions, New Art: The Ongoing Relationship between Judaism and Comic Books Andrew Muller, University of Waterloo
• What Is the Defining Feature That Makes a Jew Jewish? Sami Steinbock, Kings College London
28 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 3:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m. B Crossfire! Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet, Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie, Rabbi Dov Greenberg Moderated by Mrs. Molly Resnick Join this panel of insightful Jewish minds as they address the most important issues of the day. Explore weighty issues with these highly intelligent and knowledgeable scholars. No subject too controversial, no challenge shirked. B Maimonides and the Rebbe: The Hidden Connection Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Moscowitz The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s passion for the Rambam (Maimonides) and his works is legendary. Thirty years ago the Rebbe began a daily learning program of the Rambam’s classic Mishneh Torah, which tens of thousands of Jews have enthusiastically embraced. In this multimedia presentation, discover the remarkable similarities between these two great visionary global leaders and scholars born 800 years apart in different parts of the world. B The Uroboros, Cybernetics, and Nanotechnology: Torah Insights into the Reprogrammable Universe Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Asher Crispe The frontier of science today has become the new alchemy, with the promise of making virtually anything out of anything. Our mastery over matter is giving rise to a whole new sense of the physical universe. Armed with the prescience of the kabbalists stretching back over millennia, we hope to demonstrate how novel technologies transforming the dense, opaque, and inert qualities of materiality need no longer mask the inherent spirituality hidden therein.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 29 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 3:30 p.m.
P AquaTread (for Women) Pool Malkie Raskas AquaTread™ is a unique comprehensive total body cardiovascular aquatic workout that develops, strengthens and tones muscles, burns fat, significantly improves range of motion and flexibility, and builds stamina, all with no stress on joints and little muscle fatigue. It is the fitness program of the future, available to you today. This session requires swim attire. W A Double Vision Adams, 6th Floor Mrs. Faygie Matusof, Mrs. Dena Levin, Mrs. Eileen Bruskewitz, Mrs. Elaine Hamilton Meet the twins and their soul sisters! What are the ties that bind this fascinating quartet: twin sisters who grew up in a Chassidic enclave in Brooklyn, now residing thousands of miles apart on opposite coasts, and the soul sisters they met along the way? This unique session will take us on a journey without a speed limit, from the capital of Wisconsin, to Silicon Valley—the road will be anything but well-travelled.
C Sinai Scholars Academic Symposium
Salon 12, 3rd Floor Panelists: Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, Dr. Simcha Leibovich, Professor Richard L. Kaplan, Dr. Richard Herman
• The Jewish View on Compulsory Psychiatric Treatment Stephina Pascho, UCLA
• The Genesis of Nationhood Benjamin Miller, University of Ottawa
• All Kinds of Meshugas: The Temporary Insanity Defense through the Jewish Prism David Chernoblysky, UCLA
30 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 4:45 p.m.
4:45 p.m. B Can War Be Ethical? Wabash, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe When the bullets start flying and the tanks are rolling, do the standards of peacetime apply? It takes great moral authority to tell soldiers what they can and can’t do as they fight for their lives. That’s why the Torah lays down uncompromising rules of engagement that regulate the harsh realities of armed conflict. A sober and thorough look at the Jewish laws and ethics of warfare. B Israel’s Diplomacy: An Insider’s View Monroe, 6th Floor Mr. Shahar Azani Veteran Israeli diplomat Shahar Azani has argued for the Jewish State in boardrooms, high-level government summits, and conferences across the globe. Here, he takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour through the corridors of Israeli power. What are the challenges faced by the Jewish State? What are the solutions? And how can we help in the struggle to publicize the truth and attain peace. B Perfect Patriarchs and Marvelous Matriarchs Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Cohen Abraham and Sarah didn’t just have a model marriage, they were also superb parents. So were all the patriarchs and matriarchs. What was their secret, and how can emulating them help us become the spouses, parents, and human beings we wish to be? Be privy to a rigorous analysis of our forebears that forges a new path for us today. B The Eichmann Trial Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Dr. Deborah Lipstadt A discussion with the author of The Eichmann Trial. SS Lieutenant Colonel Adolf Eichmann’s trial in Jerusalem by an Israeli court electrified the world. The public debate it sparked on where, how, and by whom Nazi war criminals should be brought to justice was a watershed moment in how the civilized world found the means to deal with the legacy of unprecedented genocide.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 31 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 5:45 p.m.
W Panel Discussion Adams, 6th Floor Mrs. Julie Gniwisch, Mrs. Carolyn Hessel, Mrs. Alyza Lewin, Mrs. Sara Lieberman, Mrs. Chana Baila Schwartz, Moderated by Mrs. Joannie Tansky Witness our differences melt away as four diverse high- powered women from very different walks of life, in tandem with a dynamic moderator, share their individual challenges and successes, take us behind the scenes for a peek into their personal and professional stratosphere, and celebrate their Jewish womanhood. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Herschel Lazaroff P Sima’s Creative Confections Logan, 3rd Floor Sima Silverstein Learn from the master confectioner, Sima Silverstein, the secrets to creating breathtaking and sensational Royal Icing cookies. This hands-on workshop will teach you to decorate like a pro so that at your next party you can design your own beautiful creations and impress your guests. Each participant will leave with her own set of uniquely designed cookies. This class is suited for the beginner decorator, and will also challenge the more advanced. Skills will include icing consistency, techniques for outlining, flooding, quilting, wet on wet techniques, and more.
5:45 p.m. Minchah Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor
6:00 p.m. Dinner State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Presentation Sasha Pines JLI Teens Award
32 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 8:15 p.m.
Greetings Dr. Michael Maling
Joyfully sponsored by Dr. Michael S. Maling & Mrs. Beatrice Crain of the Crain-Maling Foundation
8:15 p.m. Concert — Ethan Bortnick Red Lacquer, 4th Floor : Dedicated to the valiant soldiers of the Israel Defence Forces who risk their lives on the front lines to protect our brothers and sisters in Israel
9:30 p.m. H 50 Children Monroe, 6th Floor Mr. Steven Pressman In the spring of 1939, a Jewish lawyer and his wife left their comfortable home and two children in Philadelphia and bravely travelled into the heart of the Nazi empire in an effort to save innocent lives. Their unlikely mission would turn an ordinary American couple into extraordinary heroes. Their incredible story has not been publicized—until now. Commentary and discussion with director Steven Pressman.
10:00 p.m. W Reflections Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson Together we are greater than the sum of our parts. Join in a soul-stirring roundtable discussion and share your thoughts, aspirations, and prayers for a better tomorrow.
10:15 p.m. Maariv Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 33 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Thursday / 10:15 p.m.
34 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 10:15 p.m.
August 8 / 12 Av Friday Friday
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 35 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 7:00 a.m.
7:00 a.m. B Exploring Judaism’s Ancient Key to Prayer Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie A Jewish prayer book, the siddur, can appear in countless different shapes and sizes. From the sweet-smelling yellowed pages of your grandfather’s well-used volume, to the brand new one adorning the shelf of a local Judaica store waiting patiently to be purchased, the siddur has been a key text in Jewish life for hundreds of years. H How to Pray with Passion and Purpose Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Matty Bryski Let the teachings of Chassidut flow into your prayers and inspire your personal conversation with G-d.
7:00 a.m.
P Krav Maga (for Men) Indiana, 3rd Floor Rabbi Michoel Shapiro Rabbi Shapiro is a certified instructor in Israeli self-defense systems Krav Maga and Haganah (F.I.G.H.T.). Drawing upon these systems, as well as elements of Brazilian Jujitsu and Mauy Thai kickboxing, Rabbi Shapiro’s techniques teach students how to defend themselves against an attacker who is stronger, more skilled, and even armed. His methods are easy to learn, and ideal for novice students as well as advanced martial artists. Rabbi Shapiro also instructs on conceptual principles of self-defense, the legalities of using physical force, and the perspective of Jewish law (Halachah) on self-protection. For men ages 13 and up. Participants are encouraged to wear loose-fitting clothing and tennis shoes or sneakers.
36 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 7:30 a.m.
7:30 a.m. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Women Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Matty Bryski Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Men Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Advanced Service Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor A traditional minyan, designed for men and women fluent in Hebrew reading who regularly participate in organized prayer.
8:00 a.m. Breakfast State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
9:15 a.m. H 50 Children Wabash, 3rd Floor Mr. Steven Pressman In the spring of 1939 a Jewish lawyer and his wife left their comfortable lives and two children in Philadelphia, and bravely traveled into the heart of the Nazi Empire in order to save innocent lives. Their unlikely mission would turn an ordinary American couple into extraordinary heroes. Their incredible story has not been publicized—until now. A discussion with author Steven Pressman.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 37 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 9:15 a.m.
H A Chassid in Camouflage: My Encounter with the Lubavitcher Rebbe Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech When Rabbi Benjamin Blech was asked by the Lubavitcher Rebbe to go on a speaking tour in the Far East, he balked. The counsel the Rebbe gave Rabbi Blech changed his outlook on Jewish identity forever, and inspired his philosophy of a Jewish solidarity that disregards our individual differences. H The Comedy of Marriage: Five Love Principles from the Five Books of Moses Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson You won’t find it there, but the Bible could easily fit in the relationships section of your local bookstore. This lecture surveys the classic stories and mitzvot of the Torah to extract five principles that define love in today’s world. Unearth the manual for powerful relationships that lies beneath the Torah’s surface. B The Talmudic Marriage of Henry the VIII Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik This lecture provides a crash course in British history in the age of the Tudor monarchy while also providing a strong understanding of the halachic parameters of yibum (levirate marriage), chalitzah (levirate marriage’s ritual dissolution), and the role of the expulsion of the Jews from England in the creation of the Church of England.
38 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 10:30 a.m.
M Where Medicine Differs: The Search for an Immutable Foundational Ethic Crystal, 3rd Floor Dr. Yaakov Brawer Rapidly evolving social philosophies and ethical trends have significant impact on the way doctors practice. Ethical standards appear to be flexible and a reflection of the mores of the times. Nonetheless, a common perception persists, that medicine is grounded in timeless, lofty values consistent with high moral purpose. This session will explore the attribute of rachamim (compassion) as developed in the literature of Kabbalah and will postulate that as an underlying ethical constant it is immutable, especially applicable to physicians, and, as an absolute, can never be fully achieved. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski
10:30 a.m. H Finding Your Personal “Tipping Point” Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski “The tipping point” is that subtle moment when an idea suddenly catches on and establishes a new reality. Sometimes all it takes is that little extra something to effect exponential change. Do you know what one small step will propel you to a whole new level of spiritual and emotional self-actualization? This lecture offers inspiring and practical insights on how to discover and maximize your personal tipping point. H Mikveh, Marriage, Mazal Tov Adams, 6th Floor Mrs. Chaya Teldon What makes a Jewish wedding special? What is a chupah? Why is a glass broken at the apex of the ceremony? Join a lively and interactive workshop given by Chaya Teldon, as she guides participants through the intricate and fascinating details that comprise a Jewish wedding. Using her warm wit and humor Teldon draws her audience in, explaining the various ancient customs and laws that govern the wedding and the weeks leading up to this special time.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 39 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 10:30 a.m.
B The Innocence Project Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Krasnanski What would you do if you were convicted of a crime that you did not commit? What if you’ve exhausted every appeal, are penniless and everyone has forgotten you? The Innocence Project was established to offer a last ray of hope to those who have been falsely accused. Through the use of modern DNA analysis many innocent and abandoned prisoners have been exonerated. Learn about the triumphs and challenges of this organization. M The Jewish History of Medicine: A Tour of the International Museum of Surgical Science Meet at Registration Desk Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman From the relationships between great medical and Jewish personalities, to rabbinic responses to medical and scientific developments, this tour of the International Museum of Surgical Science will surely fascinate anyone with an interest in the history of medicine and the human body. This is a double session. Participants will leave the hotel at 10:30 am and return in time for lunch. Space is limited, advance reservation is required. Please note that as the museum may contain human remains, it is suggested that a Kohen not attend this session. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Chaim Block B The Jewish-American Position on Operation Protective Edge Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Mr. Shahar Azani, Dr. Simcha Leibovich, Mr. Bruce Backman Moderated by Rabbi Dov Greenberg As American Jews, what is our responsibility toward Israel? How can we make a difference from so far away? Hear from an Israeli government official, an academic scholar, and a media expert, as they shed light on the current situation in Israel and our crucial role in it.
40 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 11:45 a.m.
11:45 a.m. B Israel’s First Coins and the Stories They Tell Crystal, 3rd Floor Robert Messing The modern Israeli government is 66 years old, and the first coins she minted tell the story of more than 3,000 years of Jewish traditions. These coins give us insights into Jewish holidays, various holy objects used in the Temple, verses from the Torah, and Jewish history throughout the ages. B Jonas Phillips: The First Truly American Jew Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik On July 4, 1776 the Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress. Soon after, an American Jew by the name of Jonas Phillips wrote a letter, in Yiddish, about what had transpired in the newly formed United States. His life story gives us incredible insight into what America offered the Jews—and what our obligations as Jews in America must be today. B King David: Ruler, Warrior, Poet, and Scholar Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Chaim Block : Dedicated By Naftali Marrus in honor of Rabbi Chaim Block, Rabbi Yossi Marrus, and Rabbi Danny Cohen Relive the trials and triumphs of one of the most colorful personalities in Jewish history. Learn of David’s ferocious battles against the Philistines, hear the song of his harp, and follow the mighty king’s transformation into the sweet singer of Israel. Watch ancient Jewish history come to life and discover why our people have turned to the Psalms for solace and strength throughout the ages.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 41 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 1:00 p.m.
S The Veracity of Torah: How Can We Be So Certain? Adams, 6th Floor Dr. Yaakov Brawer Can you prove that G-d exists, or that Torah is from Heaven? This talk challenges the validity of the concept of “proof.” The talk addresses two general forms of knowledge: Cognition, knowledge derived from external sources, and cognizance, which is awareness from within. Dr. Brawer will demonstrate, using deceptively simple illustrations, that recognition of the truths of Judaism, although supported by cognition, is established beyond question through cognizance. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet
1:00 p.m. Lunch State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Presentation Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet Sinai Scholars Symposium Award
2:15 p.m. B Crossfire! Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson, Rabbi Aaron Raskin, Mrs. Chaya Teldon Moderated by Mrs. Molly Resnick Join this panel of insightful Jewish minds as they address the most important issues of the day. Explore weighty issues with these highly intelligent and knowledgeable scholars. No subject too controversial, no challenge shirked.
42 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 2:15 p.m.
B Farbrengens in the Age of Facebook: Is Chassidism Relevant? Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet Travel back in time to 17th-century Europe to learn how Chassidism was born and grew. Where did it spring from? What are its beliefs? And does it have any relevance to today’s society? Get a fresh perspective on this misunderstood movement and find out how we can still be mystics in a modern world. H How to Make Good Relationships Great Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski This inspiring lecture—spiced with humor, stories, and time-tested wisdom—demonstrates how even a slight adjustment in our perspective can open new doors to happiness, harmony, and gratification in the most important relationships of our lives. Gain insight into how we can build stronger bonds with our spouses, children, and loved ones. W Up Beat: The Chassidic Melody’s Path to Joy (for Women) Chicago, 5th Floor Mrs. Chavi Epstein Climb the six steps to joy through niggunim. Take an opportunity to welcome Shabbat with tranquillity and an uplifted spirit. This musical journey presents the time to reflect on and get in touch with the inner yearnings of your soul, and with joy, and discover a not always so accessible part of yourself. M Medical Ethics Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 43 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 2:30 p.m.
2:30 p.m. P A Tour of Jewish History Meet at Registration Desk Rabbi Yossi Brackman Discover Jewish history through the world-famous Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago. The tour includes Babylonian statues, Sennacherib’s Prism, ancient clay figurines and artifacts, and a good dose of Talmudic wisdom. The tour is led by Rabbi Yossi Brackman of the Rohr Chabad at the University of Chicago and Dr. Jack Green, Ph.D., chief curator of the Oriental Institute. Together, they have produced a unique experience that brings Biblical history to life. Please preregister at the registration desk.
3:30 p.m. B The Archeologist Who Searched for the Lost Ark Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech Rabbi Blech takes you with him on his incredible journey as he meets Vendyl Jones, the man who inspired the story of Steven Spielberg’s hero in his masterpiece, Raiders of the Lost Ark. Learn why the Lubavitcher Rebbe told Vendyl that his finds represent “one of the most important discoveries of our time,” and how this former Christian minister founded an international organization of non-Jews known as B’nai Noach, committed to observing the seven universal “Laws of the Descendents of Noah.” H The Pursuit of Happiness Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Shmuel Lew Is it possible to attain happiness in today’s lonely world? Learn how to navigate the incredible path Judaism sets to achieve a truly happy life.
44 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 4:30 p.m.
W Welcoming the Shabbat Queen (for Women) Chicago, 5th Floor Mrs. Matty Bryski As the sun dips below the horizon and dusk settles over Chicago, we welcome the Shabbat Queen. More than just a time for friends, family, and feasts, Shabbat is an island in time when we can rediscover ourselves and the important things in our lives. This inspiring talk readies us for this holy day, the preparations for which parallel our preparations for Moshiach’s arrival. B Zionism Through the Lens of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson He never visited Israel, but nevertheless the Rebbe was sought out by her prime ministers and generals. Why did they value his advice on the most intricate political and military issues? How did an American rabbi come to mean so much to a Middle Eastern country? Be privy to a revealing investigation of the Rebbe’s complex relationship with Zionism and modern Israel—and his fierce love for the land and her people. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky
4:30 p.m. Pre-Shabbat Reception Empire, Lower Level
5:30 p.m. B Fortune Tellers, Psychics, and Horoscopes Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Krasnanski Is astrology kosher? From the horoscopes in the newspaper to the psychics in the street, everyone claims they can see our future in the stars. But does Judaism claim that as well? Are such practices even permitted by Jewish law? Is there any room at all for astrology in our lives? Find the answer in this informative and entertaining analysis of astrology in Jewish thought.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 45 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Friday / 6:45 p.m.
B Tales of the Bible: The 2014 Edition Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet The Bible first hit the shelves some 3,300 years ago and hasn’t been revised since. How, then, does it remain relevant today? Do the stories of slaves and deserts and Canaanite tribes really matter anymore? An analytical look at the tales of the Torah reveals a wealth of contemporary meaning for our modern lives. B Wine and Dine the Shabbat Way: Everything You Need to Know about Shabbat Traditions Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Baruch Hertz The magical setting of the Shabbat meal ushers peace and harmony into Jewish homes around the globe. This is your chance to master the practices that make it so unique: Lighting the Shabbat candles and reciting the kiddush over wine. You will learn everything you need to know about these treasured traditions. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Mrs. Rivkah Kotlarsky
6:45 p.m. Candle Lighting Red Lacquer, 6th Floor Guided by Mrs. Chaya Teldon
6:45 p.m. Minchah and Kabbalat Shabbat Red Lacquer, 4th Floor
7:45 p.m. Shabbat Dinner State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson
46 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 6:45 p.m.
August 9 / 13 Av Shabbat
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 47 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 8:00 a.m.
8:00 a.m. Breakfast State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
8:30 a.m. B A Peek into the Parshah: Va’etchanan Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech What better way is there to enhance your Shabbat experience than by diving into the weekly Torah portion? This workshop will explore Parashat Va’etchanan and Moses’s dramatic parting speech to the Jewish people. B Discovering the Purpose of Prayer Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Chaim Block What is the purpose of prayer? Doesn’t G-d know what we need? What should we really be praying for? To gain insight into these relevant questions, Rabbi Chaim Block will dissect the prayer of Chana, the mother of Samuel the Prophet, who offered the first silent prayer to G-d.
9:15 a.m. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Women Crystal, 3rd Floor Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Men Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Aaron Raskin Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d.
48 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 12:00 p.m.
Shacharit — Advanced Service Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Sermon: Rabbi Moshe Bryski Nachamu: An Optimistic Look at the Jewish World Today Antisemitism is rearing its ugly head in Europe; Israel faces new existential threats. It’s easy to grow pessimistic about the Jewish future. But do we have to feel that way? Drawing on profound Torah lessons and historical parallels, this talk offers an optimistic look at the future of the Jewish people.
12:00 p.m. Kiddush Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor Enjoy a light buffet. Shabbat lunch will be served at 1:15 p.m.
1:00 p.m. Shabbat Lunch State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky
2:30 p.m. B Honey, Heads, and Leeks: The Foods of Rosh Hashanah Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik Finally get to the bottom of why there is a fish head, a pot of honey, and a few leeks on the Rosh Hashanah table. An exercise in philosophical fusionism as Jewish tradition and thought engage the High Holiday culinary traditions. B Letters of Light: Numerology and Hebrew Alef-Beit Chicago, 5th Floor Rabbi Aaron Raskin Just as a carpenter employs wood to build a home, so G‑d utilized the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet to form heaven and earth. These letters are the metaphorical wood, stone, and nails, corner-posts and crossbeams of our earthly and spiritual existence. Explore the essence of these holy letters, and learn how they continue to be a source of creation, reflection, prayer, and inspiration in our everyday lives.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 49 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 4:30 p.m.
B Moshiach: What, When, Why? Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson Why do we need Moshiach? What exactly is this idea that has inspired so much hope and ignited so much debate? Billions of people share this dream: How is the Jewish one unique? Prepare to cast assumptions aside, peek into the future, and unravel the Moshiach mystery. H My Secret Mission Behind the Iron Curtain Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shmuel Lew When the Jews of the former Soviet Union suffered poverty and persecution, their brethren in the free world never forgot them. In a series of daring and clandestine trips to Russia these fearless activists brought help and hope to countless Jews. Take part in a unique and gripping firsthand account of these daring missions. M From Artificial Hearts to Ariel Sharon’s Brain: Jewish Medical Ethics Update 2014 Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman This session will address the latest developments and news items in the medical and scientific world from a Jewish perspective. Topics will include: genetics, the relationship between the Torah and DNA, the definition of parenthood in the 21st century, e-cigarettes, chimerism, printing human organs, artificial heart transplants, and the analysis of the brain activity of Ariel Sharon. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech
4:30 p.m. Minchah Red Lacquer, 4th Floor
50 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 4:45 p.m.
4:45 p.m. H Farbrengen! A Traditional Chassidic Repast for Mind, Heart, and Soul (For Men) Chicago, 5th Floor Rabbi Shmuel Lew, Rabbi Levke Kaplan A farbrengen is a warm Chassidic gathering where insightful thoughts and powerful stories are shared to inspire personal introspection and growth, in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. H Farbrengen! A Traditional Chassidic Repast for Mind, Heart, and Soul (for Women) Crystal, 3rd Floor Mrs. Chaya Teldon A farbrengen is a warm Chassidic gathering where insightful thoughts and powerful stories are shared to inspire personal introspection and growth, in an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.
6:00 p.m.
Seudah Shelishit (Third Shabbat Meal) Empire, Lower Level
7:15 p.m. B Like an Angel Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik Saying the second sentence of the Shema out loud— taboo the rest of the year—is emphatically encouraged on Yom Kippur. This in-depth group study of the origins of the Shema offers a new approach to this famous— and mysterious—tradition.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 51 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 8:45 p.m.
H The Moments That Change Our Lives Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Moshe Bryski There are two dimensions to every human being: who we are and who we can become. How can we bring the two together? The secret lies in zeroing-in on the auspicious moments of opportunity that dot our days. Following the example of Judaism’s heroic figures, learn how to identify and seize these moments—and build a happier, more meaningful life. H Yizkor Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet The solemn Yizkor prayer is Judaism’s way of remembering those who have passed. But what does it mean to remember? Is it to cherish the past or to connect to them in the present? Take part in this moving discussion on the bond between the living and those who have gone to their eternal rest—but are never gone. M My Brother’s Keeper: The Talmudic Approach to Live Organ Donation Wabash, 3rd Floor Rabbi Mordechai Dinerman : Dedicated By Jennifer Pick in memory of her grandparents, Austin Hannam and Lester and Marie Pick More than 100,000 people in the U.S. are currently on the waiting list for an organ transplant that could save their lives. Organ donations from recently deceased individuals cannot meet this great demand, and attention has turned to living organ donations. In this session we will explore sections of the Talmud and its commentaries relevant to the ethical principles regarding saving lives, and whether Jewish law forbids, permits, encourages, or obligates live organ donation. This session will include yeshivah-style cooperative learning (chavruta) and group discussion. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson
8:45 p.m. Maariv Red Lacquer, 4th Floor
52 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 9:00 p.m.
9:00 p.m. H Havdalah Ceremony Lobby Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson When darkness falls and the beauty of Shabbat fades, our hearts grow heavy. Restore your spirit with a sing-along musical Havdalah that is sure to energize your coming week.
9:45 p.m. P Motzoei Shabbat Live State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
“Challenge” In this inspiring video excerpt the Rebbe edifies growth, responsibility, and love. In all matters of life, the Rebbe teaches, one must never cease to strive ever higher.
Marc Weiner Comedian Marc Weiner entertains us with a hilarious spoof on all things Jewish.
10:45 p.m. Melave Malkah State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Bask in the afterglow of Shabbat as we escort the departing Shabbat Queen, and partake of a lavish buffet.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 53 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Shabbat / 10:45 p.m.
54 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 10:45 p.m.
August 10 / 14 Av Sunday
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 55 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 7:30 a.m.
7:30 a.m. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Women Marshfield, 3rd Floor Mrs. Chaya Teldon Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Beginners’ Service for Men Madison, 3rd Floor Rabbi Ronnie Fine Do you ever feel lost in the synagogue, alienated by fast- paced Hebrew texts? This beginners’ service will help you gain insight into the basics of prayer and the how-tos of talking to G-d. Shacharit — Advanced Service Exhibit Hall, 4th Floor A traditional minyan designed for men and women fluent in Hebrew reading who regularly participate in organized prayer.
8:00 a.m. Breakfast State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor
9:15 a.m. B Adams, Jefferson, and the Jews Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik John Adams and Thomas Jefferson were the intellectual architects of the American Revolution. Their very different perspectives on Judaism, as seen from their correspondence, reflect contrasting approaches to religion and its role in society.
56 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 9:15 a.m.
H Labels: Looking beneath the Surface Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet We are a judgmental people with labels for every type of individual: left wing, right wing, ultra-orthodox, secular. Is it ever possible to get along with someone with whom we don’t see eye-to-eye? B The Original Twelve Steps of Teshuvah Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Ronnie Fine The study of the Tanya is the work of a lifetime, but its lessons can be put to use from day one. In this deft and masterful overview of the first twelve chapters ofTanya , you’ll learn the fundamentals of Chabad philosphy, and how to apply these powerful tools to every area of your life. B 10 Commandments—or 613? Wabash, 3rd Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech Take a closer look at the Ten Commandments, the building blocks of religious civilization. Who made this list? What were the selection criteria? And how do they operate alongside the 613 commandments? A yeshivah-style study session. M The Case of Cloning: How Jewish Law Authorities Decide Bioethics Questions Adams, 6th Floor Professor Steven Resnicoff New technologies raise new ethical questions that require guidance. Every ethical system evaluates technological advances against the criteria of its moral code. In Jewish tradition, that touchstone is Halachah, the corpus of Jewish law and ethics. But how is Halachah applied to novel technologies that our ancestors could not even have imagined? In this session, Professor Resnicoff will present an outline of the halachic issues raised by cloning, and discuss how contemporary experts in Halachah have analyzed the related questions.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 57 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 10:30 a.m.
R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shmuel Lew
10:30 a.m. H What the Rebbe Told Me: Community and Life Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Shmuel Lew Rabbi Shmuel Lew, one of the foremost Jewish leaders in London, was guided in his community outreach by the Lubavitcher Rebbe. From his personal conversations, phone calls, and countless letters from the Rebbe, Lew continues to draw inspiration from the Rebbe’s insight into community work and about life itself. H What Moses Knew That Ben-Gurion and Churchill Did Not Wabash, 3rd Floor Dr. Simcha Leibovich One was the leader of the Jewish people two thousand years ago, one was the leader of the Jewish state sixty years ago, and the other was England’s greatest Prime Minister. What did these leaders have in common? What were their differences? Does a leader ever need to step down? H Man-Made Security in a G-d-Given Land Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson G-d gave the Land of Israel to the people of Israel thousands of years ago, and by doing so separated it from the other countries of the world. Ever since its inception, Israel has waged a tough battle to garner favorable public opinion in the newspapers and television shows of the West. But facing years of international pressure on a host of issues, not least amongst them serious security concerns, do politicians in Israel have the right to bend to international pressure? This session will present a different approach to the issues, one rooted in the principles of our Jewish heritage, yet starkly realistic in its appreciation of what is happening on the ground in and around Israel today.
58 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 11:45 a.m.
H When the Matzah Falls Butter-Side Down Adams, 6th Floor Mrs. Chaya Teldon The variety of challenges we face daily is both exciting and exhausting. This free-wheeling session of inspiration and insight tells us how to dodge the curveballs life throws at us. We’ll have a lot to chew on when we unwrap these individual thoughts of wisdom and wit. M The Rebbe’s Doctor Monroe, 6th Floor Dr. Ira Weiss The challenges and rewards of providing medical care to the Lubavitcher Rebbe are unique amongst doctor-patient relationships. Every decision that cardiologist, Dr. Ira Weiss, made was amplified and watched by the Rebbe’s thousands of followers, creating a unique responsibility for ensuring the Rebbe’s health. Along the way, the doctor learned lessons from the Rebbe that would change his life. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Aaron Raskin
11:45 a.m. H In Search of Real Peace: The Arab-Israeli Conflict Explained Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Dov Greenberg More than ever, myths and mistruths swirl around Israel and the entire Middle East. The line between fact and fiction is blurred with blood and tears, creating false narratives that are replete with distortions. But behind the smoke and mirrors lies the hard truth which every thinking person must discover. B Judge Duty: Why We Can’t Jump to Conclusions Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Leonard Matanky We shouldn’t be quick to judge people. But what’s in it for me? Why should I fight the impulse to assume things? And how can I fight that powerful urge? In real and practical terms, this talk lays out why judging others favorably is well worth it.
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 59 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 1:00 p.m.
B My Father’s Teacher: Life Lessons the Rebbe Taught My Father Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet Seen through the eyes of his son, this lecture portrays Rabbi Immanuel Schochet’s unique and close relationship with the Lubavitcher Rebbe. A guided look at the correspondence between the late philosopher and his Rebbe, and the riveting stories he tells, allows us to extract important life lessons relevant to us today. M Medical Crossfire: Answering Your Medical Ethics Questions Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman, Rabbi Mordechai Dinerman The panelists will answer questions and address medically related ethical quandaries submitted by participants. No question is too basic or too complex. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Danny Cohen
1:00 p.m. Lunch State/Grand Ballroom, 4th Floor Closing Remarks Rabbi Efraim Mintz
2:15 p.m. B Crossfire! Red Lacquer, 4th Floor Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie, Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson, Rabbi Shmuel Lew, Mrs. Chaya Teldon Moderated by Rabbi Baruch Epstein Join this panel of insightful Jewish minds as they address the most important issues of the day. Explore weighty issues with these highly intelligent and knowledgeable scholars. No subject too controversial, no challenge shirked.
60 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 2:15 p.m.
H Hebron: A Story of Heartbreak and Hope Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Danny Cohen Hebron. A city whose connection to the Jewish people is even older than that of Jerusalem, dating back to Abraham’s purchase of burial grounds for his wife, Sarah. Today, Jewish prayer can once again be heard at the Cave of the Patriarchs, and the Jewish community of Hebron has been reborn. Yet what does the future of this ancient city hold? Rabbi Danny Cohen serves as the Chabad representative in the city of Hebron, where he works to encourage and support those who have chosen to make their homes in the ancient city, and the many selfless soldiers who risk their lives every day defending it. Join him as he retells not only his story, but ours. H If G-d Is Good, Why Is the World So Bad? Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Benjamin Blech Is belief in G-d a greater challenge than believing in the existence of evil? How can we witness the misery and suffering of humanity and still accept that He controls the world? This informative and comforting lecture addresses these painful questions and puts G-d back where He belongs—in the driver’s seat. B The Chicago Mystique — Past and Present Crystal, 3rd Floor Mr. Ephraim Moscowitz Jewish life in Chicago began back when the city was founded. Since then it has grown to be one of America’s largest Jewish communities, and a crown jewel among Jewish cities worldwide. Take a trip down memory lane and revisit the milestones and landmarks that mark the history of Jewish Chicago. R Roundtable Cresthill, 3rd Floor Rabbi Moshe Krasnanski
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 61 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Sunday / 3:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m. B Man: A Microcosm of the Universe Adams, 6th Floor Rabbi Ronnie Fine The teachings of Kabbalah give us a unique perspective on how to relate to all of G-d’s creations, from our fellow humans, to animals, to the stones upon which we tread. By gaining a deep appreciation for every bit of creation, we come to respect everyone and everything in our lives. B Yiddish: Metaphysics of Mameloshon Monroe, 6th Floor Rabbi Meir Soloveichik Enjoy a loving and joyful reflection on how Yiddish reflects the Talmudic way of seeing the world. P A Scribe Describes His Craft Wilson, 3rd Floor Rabbi Yochanan Nathan Ever wonder how the scrolls of the tefilin and mezuzot are made? Step into the Hebrew scribe’s workshop to see how parchment, ink, and quills are used to produce the exquisite calligraphy of Judaism’s holiest objects. H Chabad, Mossad, and the KGB Crystal, 3rd Floor Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie The true story of Chabad’s secret networks during the cold war in Mother Russia, and how these networks helped Judaism flourish after the wall came down.
5:00 p.m. Dinner to Go Empire, Lower Level
62 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Mr. Shahar Azani Consul for Media Affairs at the Consulate General of Israel, New York
Mr. Bruce Backman Senior Research Analyst, Fox News; Coordinator, National Jewish Retreat; Former Aide, Former New York Governor George Pataki
Rabbi Benjamin Blech Rabbi Emeritus, Young Israel of Oceanside, NY; Professor of Talmud, Yeshiva University
Rabbi Chaim Block Director, Chabad Lubavitch of South Texas; Executive Committee Member, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
Dr. Yaakov Brawer Professor Emeritus, McGill University
Mrs. Sara Briman Chef, Hotel Encanto Acapulco, Mexico; Recipient, 5-Star Diamond Award, American Academy of Hospitality Sciences
Rabbi Moshe Bryski Director and Spiritual Leader, Chabad of the Conejo, CA; Founder, Conejo Jewish Academy
Mrs. Matti Bryski Codirector, Chabad of the Conejo, CA
Rabbi Danny Cohen Director, Chabad of Hebron
Rabbi Dovid Cohen Rabbi, Young Israel of the West Side (New York City)
Rabbi Asher Crispe Executive Director, Interinclusion.org; Technology Futurist; International Speaker
Judge Grace G. Dickler Presiding Judge of the Domestic Relations Division in Cook County, IL; Board of the Illinois Judge’s Association
Mr. Avraham Duvdevani Chairman, World Zionist Organization
Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie Director, Chabad of North County, CA; Board Member, Renaissance and Renewal Pillar of the United Jewish Communities; Member, Advisory Board, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 63 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Mrs. Stella Eliezrie Codirector, Chabad of North County, CA
Rabbi Baruch Epstein Director of Community Development of Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois; Rabbi, Bais Menachem
Mrs. Chavi Epstein Codirector, Chabad Lubavitch of South Carolina; Lecturer and Musician; Founder, Niggun Workshop Seminar
Mrs. Chaya Epstein Assistant Principal, Lubavitch Girls High School of Chicago; Director, Women’s Educational Division of Chabad-Lubavitch of Illinois
Rabbi Hesh Epstein Chairman, Executive Committee, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute; Chairman, The National Jewish Retreat; Executive Director, Chabad Lubavitch of South Carolina; Executive Director, Columbia Jewish Day School
Rabbi Ronnie Fine Director, Chabad Queen Mary (Montreal, Quebec)
Rabbi Flaum Professor of Judaic Studies, Lander College; Spiritual Leader, Lander College for Women
Rabbi Dovid Flinkenstein Director, Chabad of Wilmette, IL; Instructor, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
Rabbi Dov Greenberg Executive Director, Chabad at Stanford University
Mrs. Devorah Halberstam Director, Foundation and Government Services at the Jewish Children’s Museum
Charlie Harary Associate Professor of Management and Entrepreneurship, Syms School of Business, Yeshiva University; Cofounder, H3 & Company; Founder and President, Milvado Inc.
Professor Richard Herman Former chancellor of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Rabbi Baruch Hertz Rabbi, Bnei Ruven, IL; Rabbi, Chabad of Lakeview, IL; Executive Director, Lubavitch Girls High School (Chicago, IL)
Mrs. Carolyn Hessel Executive Director, Jewish Book Council
64 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Professor David A. Hyman Director, Epstein Program in Health Law and Policy; H. Ross and Helen Workman Chair in Law and Professor of Medicine at the University of Illinois
Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson Director, Rosh Chodesh Society, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute; International Lecturer, Jewish Women’s Studies; Musician and Composer
Rabbi Yosef Y. Jacobson Editor-in-Chief, The Algemeiner Journal; Dean, TheYeshiva.net; Senior Fellow, Rabbinical Seminary, Chovevai Torah (Brooklyn, NY); International Speaker, Chassidic Teachings
Walter D. Jacobson Anchorman; News Personality; Television Guest Star
Dr. Alan Kadish, M.D. President and CEO, Touro College
Professor Richard L. Kaplan Peer and Sarah Pedersen Professor of Law, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign College of Law
Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky Vice Chairman, Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch—Lubavitch World Headquarters; Chairman, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute; Chairman, International Conference of Shluchim
Mrs. Rivkah Kotlarsky Beth Rivkah High School (Brooklyn, NY)
Rabbi Moshe Krasnanski Founder, Executive Director and Rabbi of Chabad of the Town, Montreal; Dean, Canadian Institute of Contemporary Jewish Law and Ethics
Rabbi Herschel Lazaroff Director, Center for the Advancement of Creativity and Human Potential, Baltimore, MD; Spiritual Healer
Dr. Simcha Leibovich North American Representative of the World Zionist Organization Executives
Attorney Jack S. Levin Senior Partner at Kirkland & Ellis; National Vice President of the American Jewish Committee
Mrs. Sara Lieberman Acclaimed educator and lecturer; Beth Rivkah Division of Higher Learning (Brooklyn, NY)
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 65 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Dr. Deborah Lipstadt Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Emory University
Rabbi Shmuel Lew Senior Chabad Emissary to London (UK); Headmaster, Senior Girls School, London
Attorney Alyza D. Lewin President of the American Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists; Lewin & Lewin
Mr. Nathan Lewin, Esq. Prominent Washington, D.C. Attorney; Renowned Advocate for First Amendment Rights; Former American President, International Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists; Lewin & Lewin
Rabbi Leonard Matanky Rabbi, Congregation K.I.N.S. of West Rogers Park (IL); Dean of Ida Crown Jewish Academy (Chicago, IL); President of the Rabbinical Council of America
Robert Messing Founding Member, American Israel Numismatic Association
Attorney Harvey R. Miller Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Rabbi Efraim Mintz Executive Director, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
Mrs. Shaina B. Mintz Director, National Jewish Retreat; Faculty Member, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
Rabbi Moshe Moscowitz Senior Rabbinical Coordinator, CRC
Judge Michael B. Mukasey Debevoise & Plimpton; Former U.S. Attorney General
Professor Sheldon H. Nahmod Professor of Law at IIT Chicago-Kent College of Law
Mr. Steven Pressman Writer, Director, and Producer of 50 Children
Malkie Raskas Certified Weight Management Consultant and Fitness Instructor
Rabbi Aharon Raskin Rabbi, Congregation B’nai Avraham, Brooklyn Heights, NY
66 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman Professor of Emergency Medicine and Professor of Education and Bioethics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine; Professor of Jewish Medical Ethics, Yeshiva University; Member, Advisory Board, Institute for Genetics and Public Policy
Rabbi Yona Reiss Av Beth Din (Presiding Judge) of the Chicago Rabbinical Council; Former Director of the Beth Din of America
Mrs. Molly Resnick Founder and Director, MATCK (Mothers Against Teaching Children to Kill and Hate); Former News and Documentary Producer for NBC, PBS, and Israel TV
Professor Steven H. Resnicoff Professor of Law, DePaul University College of Law, Chicago; Codirector, Center for Jewish Law and Judaic Studies
Mr. George Rohr President, New Century Holdings; Chairman, The Rohr Family Foundation; Principal Benefactor, The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
Mrs. Saranne Rothberg Founder and CEO, The ComedyCures Foundation
Donald C. Schiller Senior Partner, Schiller DuCanto & Fleck
Rabbi Yitzchak Schochet Rabbi, Mill Hill Synagogue; Chairman, Rabbinical Council of the United Synagogue; Frequent Panelist, The Big Questions, BBC; Columnist, The Jewish News
Dr. Stephen F. Serbin CEO and Medical Director, Family Medicine Centers of South Carolina; Chairman, Lay Advisory Board, National Jewish Retreat
Rabbi Michoel Shapiro Certified Instructor, Krav Maga, Hagana and Brazilian Jujitsu; Instructor, Jewish Perspective on Self-Protection
Sima Silverstein Sima’s Creative Confections
Attorney Gil M. Soffer Katten, Muchin, Rosenman’s Chicago office; Co-head, White Collar Defense, Internal Investigations and Compliance practice
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 67 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: Faculty
Rabbi Meir Soloveichik Director, Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought at Yeshiva University; Rabbi, Congregation Shearith Israel, New York City
Attorney James H.M. Sprayregen Kirkland & Ellis
Rabbi Adin (Even-Yisrael) Steinsaltz Founder, Shefa and The Israel Institute for Talmudic Publications; World-renowned scholar
Mrs. Joannie Tansky International Speaker; Coach and Writer
Rabbi Shais Taub Director, Conscious Contact, Pittsburgh; International Speaker, Scholar, and Teacher, Jewish Mysticism; Author, G-d of Our Understanding: Jewish Spirituality and Recovery from Addiction, The Map of Tanya, and JLI Course, Soul Maps
Mrs. Chaya Teldon Codirector, Chabad of Mid-Suffolk (NY)
Dr. Ira Weiss Cardiologist; Associate in Medicine-Cardiology, Northwestern University Medical School
Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe Dean, Institute of American and Talmudic Law in New York
68 NATIONAL JEWISH RETREAT 2014 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: National Jewish Retreat
The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute
x Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky Rabbi Levi Kaplan Chairman Director of Operations
Mr. George Rohr Rabbi Dubi Rabinowitz Principal Benefactor Administrator
Rabbi Efraim Mintz Executive Director
National Jewish Retreat
x Rabbi Hesh Epstein Rabbi Mordechai Dinerman Chairman Mrs. Mindy Wallach CME Conference Mrs. Shaina Mintz Administrator Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson Rosh Chodesh Women’s Day Mr. David Sharf Event Producer Mrs. Shevi Rivkin Layout and Design Mr. Bruce Backman Hotel Liaison Mendel Schtroks Layout Rochelle Katzman Program Coordinator Nechoma Rivkah Dubov Multimedia Rabbi Zalman Abraham Marketing Moshe Raskin Strategic Planning Multimedia
Mrs. Fraydee Kessler Rabbi Shmuel Loebenstein Operations Writer
Sara Abelsky Rabbi Mendel Sirota Administration Printing and Distribution
Mrs. Chana’le Dechter Rabbi Yossi Klein Guest Liaison Rabbi Shmuly Karp Shluchim Coordinators Rabbi Mendel Weg Founding Director Mushka Katzman Hostess Coordinator Rabbi Leibel Moscowitz Event Space Manager
PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 69 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: National Jewish Retreat
Registration and Hostesses Camp Staff Mrs. Chavi Epstein Chana Block Mrs. Shlomit Epstein Sari Hertz Shterny Epstein Musie Kantor Mrs. Shaindy Jacobson C.M. Moscowitz Shevi Katzman Chani Shanowitz Chani Katzman Dina Shanowitz Devorah Katzman Goldie Shemtov Mrs. Chaya Moscowitz Devorah Leah Staal Mrs. Shulamis Nadler Chana Vita Wolf Mushky Notik Mrs. Nava Rabinowitz Torah Café Raizele Shapiro Avraham Shimon Ezagui Mrs. Chanie Silman Aaron Kostiya Mrs. Ariella Weg Zalmy Margolin Esty Perman Sinai Scholars Getzy Raskin Rabbi Dubi Rabinowitz Rafi Roston Devorah Balarsky Mendel Serebryanski Devora Leah Notik Yisroel Silman Shloimy Werner
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PALMER HOUSE HILTON CHICAGO, IL 71 ב”ה
IN APPRECIATION OF George ^ Pamela Rohr
DEDICATEDIn the merit of IN bringing LOVING the conceptMEMORY of the OF National Jewish Retreat to fruition and their ongoing efforts to bring theMr. love ofSami Torah toRohr Jews worldwide, ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: ר‘ ,happiness שמואל ,health ב’ר with יהושע they be blessed אליהו mayז’ל nachas from all their loved ones and Patron and benefactor of Torah extraordinary success in all their endeavors. institutions the world over, marking his second yahrtzeit on Program Guide י’ז מנחם אב xה’תשע”ד August 13, 2014 And in loving memory of
2 3 Mr. Sami Rohr ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: x ר‘ of שמואל ב”ר in appreciation יהושע Andאליהו ז”ל Patron and benefactor of Torah George ^ Pamela Rohr institutions the world over, In the merit of bringing the concept of the marking his second yahrtzeit on National Jewish Retreat to fruition and their ongoing efforts י”ז מנחם אב ה’תשע”ד to bring the love of Torah to Jews worldwide, August 13, 2014 may they be blessed with health, happiness, Nachas from all their loved ones and extraordinary success in all their endeavors.
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THE ROHR JEWISH LEARNING INSTITUTE AUGUST 6–10, 2014 • 10–14 AV, 5774 822 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11213 PALMER HOUSE HILTON 718-221-6900 • www.myJLI.com Chicago, Illinois