May 16,A.M.– From11:30 Services on May 15, Where He Will Talk from the Shabbat for Congregation Israel Beth at Guest Ber Eventsof During the Weekend

Michael Appel, special to the WJN HIAS presidentto speakinAnnArbor Deborah Deborah Renner at arerequired Sundayforthe brunch. RSVPto RSVPsbutevents,t these welcomeat is public The backgrounds. all of immigrants and gees refu assisting in play can community Jewish American the that role the and inception, its Jewishthat have traditions guided HIAS since internationally,HIAS’workresettlement the about speak will Aronoff brunch. preciation ap volunteer annualService’s Family Jewish at speaker keynote the be will he p.m., 12:30 bimah.Sunday,On May 16,a.m.– from11:30 services on May 15, where he will talk from the Shabbat for Congregation Israel Beth at guest ber eventsof during the weekend. He be will a speak to the Ann Arbor community at a num- from theIraq War. refugees them of most individuals, 50 over resettled JFS 2009, In background. ethnic or nationality religion, their for regard without need, in others and refugees immigrants, ish Jew - America—serving Latin and East, Africa U.S.,world,the including Europe, Middle the the throughout active is worldwide.HIAS ple peo million 4.5 than more assisted has 1881 the Jewish American communitysince and of greater Washtenaw area. County the in refugees resettle to works and HIAS, Family Services. JFS is an affiliate with partner mittee of Beth Israel Congregation and Jewish Com Action Social the by sponsored is visit community. Aronoff’s Jewish the and issues resettlement immigrant about talk to ances visit Annvisit Arbor,appear of number a making O email Michael Appel at events, other these on information more For work. advocacy and resettlement its in HIAS issues and explaining how people can support about current immigration and refugee policy talking locally time spend also will Aronoff you to attend. wish if principal U.S. coalition of non-governmental of U.S.coalition principal the USA, Council Refugee of leadership the in active is U.S.,and the in organization vocacy ad immigrant leading the Forum, migration Mira Sussman [email protected]. In thisissue… Aronoff, who grew up in East Lansing, will HIAS is the international migration agency In addition to the Beth Israel and JFS events, Aronoff serves as chair of the National Im National the of chair as serves Aronoff WASHTENAW Immigrant Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS), will Hebrew the of CEO and president Aronoff,Gideon 16, and 15 May n May 2010 Iyar/Sivan 5770 [email protected] Page 7 Torah celebrating Shavuot— [email protected]

t or or ------Gideon AronoffGideon the former Soviet Union.the former Soviet n of countries the in community Jewish the izing revital are who empowersyoungadults Jewish ering of Jewish learning that brings together and the steering committee of Limmud FSU, a gath of member a currently is movement.He Jewry cacy and other leadership positions in the Soviet worked for nearly a dozen years in policy, advo Aronoff HIAS, joining to Prior issues. tlement gees, asylum seekers, and a broad range of reset organizations focused on issues relating to refu amines the universal themes that the Holocaust NeverAgain”meaning, “Beyond ex of realm theHolocauststudying around theworld. centersdevotedinstitutesto 100 and more than Holocaust Memorial Museum, Yad Vashem, and UnitedStates the Again”from support won has Nevereducation, “Beyond adult of network est LearningInstitute theworld’s (JLI), Jewish larg Rohr the by Created class. audio-visual and bad House about the Holocaust, is a text-based Never Again,” a six-part course offered by Cha “Beyond Day), Remembrance Hashoah(Holocaust Yom with coincide to Timed Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, special to the WJN JLI course “Beyond Never Again”offers lessons for life Envisioned as a journey into the intense the into journey a as Envisioned Page 10 Argentina break in Spring

Volume XXXIV: Number 8 ------learning community.www.myjli.comVisit learning This unique feature has created global a true locations.affiliate worldwide all in currently forArbor sixconsecutive Tuesdays. Ann in run will 27, April began which Again, topertaining faith and suffering. Beyond Never angles on some of life’s most difficult questions responses to the Holocaust, personal and their provides articulate to relevant participants able en will that discussions facilitated of series a as formulated is course The nurtured. be may good and evil, and how empathy and conscience of nature the as such confront, to one forces I with had lost the ability to speak begin singing along involved on amore regularized basis. get to able be will community the of members ed-living facilities. With the new training, more Shabbat celebrations at some assist of local the provided steadily havevolunteers, individual as well congregations, as local The Jacobson. Lawrence- to accordingcelebrations,Shabbat regular so less but facilities, living assisted area offer holiday celebrationsJewish residents to at to able been has now,JFS Until candles. and challah, juice, grape “mini-Kiddush”with a as well as songs, and prayers Jewish familiar include will services Shabbat30-minute-long celebrations.The monthly the of locations and times the up setting JFS and basis, monthly a Havurahproviding training and volunteers Reconstructionist Arbor Annon the with tered, adminis jointly be will program The JFS. for Services Adult Older of director Jacobson, community,”Lawrence- the toR. Abigail said Havurahconstructionist to participate. year. per VolunteersRetothe belong not need celebrations these of 12 to one fromanywhere lead to up sign to then and training,receive to from being sought the local Jewish community area.Volunteers Arbor Annare the in facilities living assisted different at month every tions Aura Ahuvia, special to the WJN Shabbat celebrations for theelderly Every course offered by JLI is offered con “It was very moving to see someone who who someone see to moving very was “It “We’re this offer to able being aboutexcited will begin offering mini-Shabbat celebra mini-Shabbat offering begin will the Ann Reconstructionist Arbor Havurah n conjunction with Jewish Family Services, Page 18 tool teaching Holocaust offers Facebook Yedid Nefesh Yedid , with tears flowing down flowing tears with , Ann Arbor, MI48108 2939 BirchHollowDrive c/o JewishFederationofGreaterAnnArbor Washtenaw JewishNews ------

“Beyond Never Again.” about information up-to-the-minute for e-mail, via or 975-9045 at Ahuvia, Aura Havurah, Reconstructionist the for intern student binic about this collaborative effort, contact morethe rab out find or training, for up sign To appropriate for young teens or children. n not is it teenagers; mature and adults for is work This demand. sufficient is there offered if be may date second A p.m. 4:30 at 16, May Sunday, on place take will session training community. first JewishThe larger the of bers prayers or songs on occasion. of explanation of bit a for room be may there ish elderly, but non-Jewish also residents. Thus, Jew area serving be only not will celebrations likely to attend,” said Lawrence-Jacobson. These be would people more that insures it because them, for good is time p.m. 6/6:30 “The ner. din eat they which after naps, afternoon take formany because istiming this ofresidents the reason The basis. rotating a on facilities, living fered around 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m., at area assisted- unteer trainers. vol- the of one as serve now will and activities, such in involvement her continue to wishes forepassing away2008. inToday, Druckman in a numbera in memory-care facilitiesbe of local residents the of one herself mother,was Sylvia, own her because involvedgot Druckman ago. years few a celebrations Shabbat such lead helped who Havurah Reconstructionist the of member a Druckman, face,” Leora their said Lesson 6: When Night Will ShineLike Day Lesson 5: A Tree Life to Those of Who ICallTo theDepths Lesson 4: Out of You Lesson 3: In They Deaths Their Were Brother’sYour of Voice The 2: Lesson Lesson 1: Wrestling With God Course Themes The training session is also open to mem to open also is session training The of- be to Shabbattend celebrationsThe will Cling To It Not Parted Out Cries Blood [email protected]. Permit No.85 Ann Arbor, MI U.S. Postage PAID Standard Presort FREE - - - - -

I Letters

2935 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 AFSC committed to human rights voice: 734/971-1800 fax: 734/971-1801 Dear Editor, e-mail: [email protected] We write in response to a statement by Steven Pastner in the February issue of the Washt- www.washtenawjewishnews.org enaw Jewish News. Mr. Pastner, on page 9, stated that the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) and local Quakers are “pro-Palestinian,” implying that those who are pro-Palestinian are anti-Israeli. We hope that most readers of WJN are aware that the focus of Quakers and of the AFSC as well, is human dignity, human rights for all persons, the alleviation of suffering, Editor and Publisher and the peaceful resolution of conflict. To that end, the AFSC has a long tradition of working in Susan Kravitz Ayer Israel and with Israelis, as well as in the West Bank and Gaza and in countries around the world Calendar Editor and here at home. We can assure readers of WJN that Quakers locally and nationally do indeed Claire Sandler seek the well-being, peace equality, and human rights of Israelis, as well as Palestinians. The AFSC and Quaker individuals have worked in Israel and in the Palestinian territories Advertising Manager for over 60 years. Their cause has been peace. The renowned Friends Schools in Ramallah were Gordon White started in the 1800s, while Friends International Centre in Ramallah is a newcomer to the work. Starting in 1948 and continuing through this past difficult year, the AFSC has carried out inten- Design and Layout sive relief work among refugees in Gaza. The organization won a Nobel Peace Price in 1947. Dennis Platte The commitment of AFSC and of Quakers locally and nationally is to human rights for Staff Writers all people. Noa Gutterman, Sandor Slomovits The Ann Arbor Friends Meeting, Cassie Cammann, Clerk Contributing Writers Aura Ahuvia, Halye Aisner, Roann Altman, Michael Appel, Gal Beckerman, Laura Bergman, Stephen Paster responds: I stand by what I said. More than one member of the small Ari Bildner, Rabbi Lisa Delson, Marcy Epstein, synagogue-stalking group is affiliated with the Friends... and to paraphrase some wise Ellie Falaris Ganelin, Sue Fishkoff, Terri advice from the alcoholic beverage world: “Friends don’t (or shouldn’t) let Friends ha- Ginsburg, Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, Jeffry Herbstman, Deborah Huerta, Ron Kampeas, rass other faiths.” Adam Kirsch, Joan Levitt, Matan Naamani, Marcy Oster, Merrill Poliner, Dina Shtull, Henry Brysk responds: On behalf of the Ann Arbor Friends Meeting, Cassie Cammann Elliot Sorkin, Caryn Stairs, Leslie Susser, Mimi takes umbrage at Steve Pastner’s characterization of their political bias. Unfortunately, Weisberg, Moshe Yosef her letter only confirms this bias, particularly in its omissions. To be explicit, we con- sider it unFriendly (pun intended) that they have taken into their midst several of the The Washtenaw Jewish News is a free and inde- pendent newspaper. It is published monthly, False Witnesses that harass the synagogue and that advocate the complete destruction of with the exception of January and July. It is reg- Israel, and that they have participated in political actions furthering a similar ideology. istered as a Non-profit Michigan Corporation. There is no mention of any of that, and I look in vain for recognition of Israel’s right Opinions expressed in this publication do not to exist or for condemnation of the murder of Israeli civilians by Hamas. How do they necessarily reflect those of its editors or staff square Quaker pacifism with giving aid and comfort to terrorists? The praiseworthy humanitarian projects of the American Friends Service Committee are irrelevant to this discussion, which concerns the political activism of the local group. I do find it instruc- Member of tive that the letter stresses AFSC activities in Hamastan (Gaza), apart from a school in American Jewish Press Association Ramallah, and none in Israel. If they find it distasteful to help Jews, how about the needy Darfuri refugees that have fled to Israel? Or are they incapable of sympathy for any victims of Arab bombing?

WJN Editor Susan Ayer responds: In searching out AFSC’s position on the conflict in Israel, an often listed source is a group called Jewish Voices for Peace. According to a 2008 posting on CAMERA’s website, Jewish Voices for Peace (JVP) bills itself as an organization of “activists inspired by Jewish tradition to work together for peace, social justice, and human rights” who “support the aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians for ©2010 by the Washtenaw Jewish News. security and self-determination.” However, JVP’s moral outrage is decidedly one-sided, All rights reserved. No portion of the Washtenaw directed overwhelmingly at Israel. (http://www.camera.org/index.asp?x_context=2&x_ Jewish News may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. outlet=108&x_article=1498). Checking on other links from the AFSC website reveals a similar bias. Signed letters to the editor are welcome; they should not exceed 400 words. Letters can be emailed to the In 1947, the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) and British Friends Ser- editor at [email protected]. Name will be vice Council were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on behalf of Quakers worldwide. The withheld at the discretion of the editor. prize recognized 300 years of Quaker efforts to heal rifts and oppose war. In particular, Circulation: 5,000 it named the work done by the two recipient Quaker organizations during and after the Subscriptions: two World Wars to feed starving children and help Europe rebuild itself. The Prize was $12 bulk rate inside Washtenaw County not given for any work AFSC did in the Middle East. $18 first-class subscription We are told, “The commitment of AFSC and of Quakers locally and nationally is The deadline for the June 2010 issue of the to human rights for all people.” Speaking as a member of Beth Israel Congregation, I Washtenaw Jewish News is know that an active member of the Ann Arbor Friends Meeting has been picketing us Friday, May 7. on Shabbat now for seven years without his being censured by Quakers locally for his Publication date: Wednesday, May 26. reprehensible behavior. I am only referring to the picketers’ actions, not their beliefs. I Extra copies of the Washtenaw Jewish News see nothing in Cammann’s letter that indicates the Friends board feels such a censure is are available at locations throughout Washtenaw County. warranted. I wonder why the commitment to “human rights for all” excludes the right of Beth Israel members to worship without harassment.

IIn this issue… Advertisers...... 27 Israel...... 16 Youth...... 11 Books...... 22 On Another Note...... 23 Vitals...... 27 Calendar...... 26 Seniors...... 6 Washington D.C...... 19 Congregations...... 8 Teens...... 11 Women...... 4

2 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 ICommunity

Jazz pianist Fred Hersch to perform at KCH Ellie Falaris Ganelin, special to the WJN azz pianist Fred Hersch, considered among the best of his generation, has J a style all his own. The New York Times calls him “a master who plays it his way.” Having played a number of concerts at Ker- rytown Concert House in the past, he will return for a solo performance on Thursday, May 6, at 8 p.m. Hersch’s many accomplishments include a Evening & Weekend Appointments • www.SevickLaw.com 2003 Guggenheim Memorial Fellowship for composition, a Rockefeller Fellowship for a Free Initial Consultations • 734.480.9100 composition residency at the Bellagio Center 2002 Hogback Rd., Suite 11, Ann Arbor, MI 48105 in Italy, two Grammy nominations for Best Jazz Instrumental Performance and a 2006 Grammy nomination for Best Instrumental Composition. He has recorded more than two-dozen albums as a solo artist or band- leader and appears on over 100 recording projects as a duo collaborator, sideman or featured soloist. In 2008, a documentary about him was released called Let Yourself Go: The Fred Hersch Lives of Fred Hersch. He is currently a visiting professor at Western Michigan University. live recording with the Pocket Orchestra, as When asked by an interviewer, “Do you well as a solo album, Fred Hersch Plays Jobim. follow a spiritual tradition or practice?,” Hersh He is currently working on a long-form piece responded, “The closest would be Buddhism. to illustrate the dreams he had when he was I was raised Jewish, Americanized Reform in a coma. Hersch told The New York Times, Jew, so I guess that makes me a ‘Jew-Bu’!” “I’ve been through a lot, and I want to make Hersch, who has AIDS, suffered a near- something of it, musically.” death ordeal in 2008 as he battled with the The Kerrytown Concert House, located at virus. He had a grave case of pneumonia and 415 North Fourth Avenue, is an arts organi- went into a two-month coma that summer. zation focused on community engagement He has since gone through extensive therapy and bringing fine artists and their audiences and is now fully recovered. together. The concert house is available to the Hersch’s newest project has been the Pock- community, including educators, students et Orchestra, an unconventional instrumen- and organizations for recitals, meetings and tation featuring an all-star lineup: Jo Lawry events. Tickets for the concert are $15–$30 (voice), Ralph Alessi (trumpet) and Richie and are available by calling 769-2999. n Barshay (percussion). Hersch has released a Photography exhibit by Nancy Margolis at the JCC Mimi Weisberg, special to the WJN The Bobbie and Myron Levine Jewish Com- Levine, she agreed to share her photographs munity Center Cultural Arts Fund will pres- with the community. ent an exhibition of photographs by Nancy On the Eastern European tour, Gitelman Margolis at the Herb and Carol Amster Gal- shared thoughts from philosopher Abraham lery in the Jewish Community Center of Joshua Heschel, who inspired this exhibit Greater Ann Arbor. Entitled “Remembering with the following words: “We must retain the Our Glorious Past: Synagogues of the World,” Jewishness of our fathers (and mothers) and the exhibition will open May 1 and continue grandfathers (and grandmothers). Solidarity through June 15. The Opening Reception will with the past must become an integral part of be held Thursday, May 6, from 5–7 p.m., and our existence. We are in need of Jews whose is free and open to the public. Zvi Gitelman life is a garden, not a hothouse. Only liv- will be the speaker at the reception. ing Judaism can survive. Books are no more “Remembering Our Glorious Past: Syna- than seeds; we must be both the soil and the gogues of the World,” will feature over 40 atmosphere in which they grow…. The pres- photographs showcasing synagogues from all ent generation is still in possession of the keys over the world. to the treasure. If we do not uncover the trea- Margolis began taking photographs while sures, the keys will go down to the grave with on a 2002 tour with Gitelman that he led us, and the storehouse of the generations will through Eastern Europe, including Poland, remain locked forever. The Eastern European Lithuania, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. era can become a source of inspiration for all She thought the synagogues were exquisite of us. It is incumbent upon us never to for- and wanted to share them with friends and get the Jews that sacrificed their lives by their family, so she began creating note cards with proximity to heaven.” the images from her photographs. She then Margolis has lived in Ann Arbor for more traveled with her husband to Russia, China, than 40 years. Following a career in jour- Spain, and Norway, as well as with the Temple nalism and social work administration, she Beth Emeth choir to Romania, Bulgaria, and served the Jewish community as director of Greece, and later to Argentina. She continued the Jewish Federation and executive director her travels on a Greek island tour to Rho- of the Jewish Community Center. For further des and Istanbul. Wherever she traveled, she information about the Amster Gallery and made it a point to visit old synagogues. With the Margolis exhibit, contact Mimi Weisberg encouragement from the Bobbie and Myron at 971-0990 or [email protected]. n Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 3 IWomen

Jewish women gather for Federation’s Day of Learning, held in March Laura Berger, special to the WJN n Sunday, March 7, women from Naomi Feuchtwanger-Sarig presented Jew- across the community gathered at ish wedding customs and rituals in the Early O the Jewish Community Center of Modern period, focusing on the artistic cre- Greater Ann Arbor for an educational and ativity in everyday life. Eileen Pollack, direc- entertaining day of presentations and dis- tor of the MFA program in creative writing cussion about the role of Jewish culture in at the University of Michigan, took partici- the arts and media presented by the Jewish pants through the challenges and triumphs Federation of Greater Ann Arbor. she experienced in the writing and publish- Keynote presenter Debra Darvick is an ing of her first novel. award-winning author who has spoken at Happy Feigelson, who chaired the event, the JCC Jewish Book Festival in the past. said during the planning process that she Darvick delighted the audience with a pre- and the committee members would count sentation entitled, “Eight Steps for Pursuing the day as a success if “everyone has a chance Your Creative Dreams.” to learn something new related to Jewish life, The event was again presented in part- gain a new perspective on an old topic, meet nership with the Frankel Center for Judaic and connect with some really interesting Studies at the University of Michigan. Small- people, and have good conversation. At the group breakout sessions showcased Frankel end of the day, it is all about learning from Institute fellows, who are scholars spending each other and feeling good about being a visiting year in Ann Arbor. Chava Weissler part of this Jewish community.” discussed the role of artistic creativity in the For more information about the Jewish Jewish Renewal movement and its impor- Women’s Day of Learning, contact Laura tance to the practice of Judaism’s mystical Berger at the Jewish Federation; 677-0100 teachings in the Kabbalah and Hasidism. or [email protected]. n

1 2

1. Happy Feigelson 2. Chava Weissler 3. Beverly Bixler, Monica Schteingart, Kim Perlman 4. (l. to r.) Annette Fisch, Laura Berger, Eileen Pollack, Susan Fisher, Debra Darvick, and Happy Feigelson

4 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 “The Sole of Hadassah” event honors Maxine Solvay and Barb Bergman Caryn Stairs, special to the WJN oin the Ann Arbor Chapter of Hadassah for its 2009-2010 year-end gathering—a fashion show event honoring board members, Maxine Solvay and Barbara Bergman. Sole J Sisters, the fashion shoe and accessory store in downtown Ann Arbor will be bringing their shoes, handbags, jewelry and other items for a fashion show at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor on Sunday, June 6, at 10 a.m. A light brunch will be served and the cost is $5. Solvay and Bergman are being honored for their long service and dedication to Hadassah. Bergman is the outgoing chapter president, and has held various other board positions over the past 30 years, including chair of the Chocolate Extravaganza and the Silent Auction. Solvay has held all major positions on the chapter board, including past president. She is currently fundraising chair for the chapter and Keeper of the Gate liaison for the national board. “Maxine embodies

Maxine Solvay

Hadassah for us,” said chapter member Eileen Thacker. Everyone is invited, and women who join Hadassah at this event can attend for free. Items from Sole Sisters will be for sale and the store is donating 10 percent of their sales to Hadassah. They have agreed to extend this Barbara Bergman offer through the week following the event. n RSVP by June 1 to Caryn Stairs at [email protected] or 424-1701. A check for $5, payable to “Hadassah,” can be mailed to at 6842 Brassow Lane, Dexter, MI 48130, or can be paid at the door. Invest your tax refund dollars Ann Arbor ORT Spring Dinner in your most valuable asset~ Joan Levitt, special to the WJN he Ann Arbor chapter of ORT America will hold its annual Spring Dinner on Mon- You! day, June 7, at 6 p.m., at the Quarter Bistro, at 300 Maple Road in Ann Arbor. The T three-course dinner, offering a choice of three entrees, is $36 per person. The dinner provides ORT members and potential members the opportunity to dine with friends and to learn more about ORT America’s programs which help students around the world attain high quality educations. The chapter’s generous donors will be honored at the dinner. Naomi Harrison, who has been a member of the Ann Arbor chapter since it was founded in 1968, will also be As Featured in ® honored. Harrison has served on the board of the Ann Ar- NEW BEAUTY bor chapter for many years. She strongly believes in the The World's Most Unique Beauty Magazine importance of ORT America and is a treasured member of the chapter. The Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery ORT’s global network of schools and training programs offers a comprehensive array of rejuvenating products provide cutting-edge curriculums and robust educational and services to help you look and feel your best. initiatives in over 60 countries and reach over 300,000 students every year. ORT gives its students the tools to ob- TAKE ADVANTAGE OF BEAUTIFUL SAVINGS THIS TAX SEASON tain the high tech skills that prepare them for the demands on these Aesthetic treatments: Botox® Cosmetic, Dysport™, dermal of the local job market, while developing good citizens Save $50 Naomi Harrison fillers, photo facials, microdermabrasion, ultrasonic facials and laser hair reduction, through its emphasis on basic human and Jewish values. or a cosmetic consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons. Rides to the dinner are available to those who need them. For more information or to RSVP, contact Lisa Saulles at [email protected] by May 28. n When you come in for your appointment ask about SPECIAL SAVINGS on Latisse, the latest Aesthetic innovation to grow eyelashes.

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Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 WJNad_May_PRINT.indd 1 4/16/10 4:41 PM 5 ISeniors

May SPICE* of Life *Social, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural, and Educational Programs for Adults Merrill Poliner, special to the WJN Tuesdays 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m.— Music Appreciation with Laura Dun- bar, education and community outreach coordinator of the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra. Continues through June 8. Free for those over 65 through Washt- enaw Community College. Reg- ister at 971-0990 or at first class. 11 a.m.— Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 Noon— Homemade Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person 1 p.m.—Wii sports including bowling, tennis, golf and baseball. No sports or computer experience necessary. 1 p.m.—Games and Activities. Join in for variety of games Seniors Thursday discussion group with Heather Dombey. and activities including mah- (l. to r.) Mini Berki, Merrill Poliner, Heather Dombey, Ruth jong, quilting, art projects, Breslaw and Sol Saginaw and other card games. 1:30 p.m.— Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group). Open to the public as well as Uni- versity of Michigan faculty, staff and students; all ages and levels welcome. Beanster’s Café, ground floor, Michigan League. Free. For more information, call 936-2367. Wednesdays 10 a.m.–noon.— The Bible in Its Time with Dr. Liz Fried. Continues through June 16. Free for those over 65 through Washtenaw Community College. Register at 971-0990 or at first class. Thursdays 10 a.m.:—Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 11 a.m.— Current Events with Heather Dombey. A Jewish perspective on this week’s news. Bring items of interest for group discussion. Noon—Homemade Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person 1 p.m—Thursday Special Events and Presentations (see below for details) 2:15 p.m.— Literary Group facilitated by Sidney Warschausky, Call Merrill Poliner, 971- 0990, for more information and the current book. Fridays 1:30 p.m.—Yiddish Reading Group at the Jewish Community Center. Call Ray Juni for additional information at 761-2765 Tuesday special events and presentations May 4 1–2 p.m.— Welcome to the new Wii! Join SPICE for Wii sports. No experience or physical expertise necessary. Call Merrill at 971-0990 for more information. Wednesday special events and presentations May 12 2–4 p.m.: Fun with Yiddish – Music, Humor and Stories facilitated by Sara Mendel May 26 1–2:30 p.m.—Afternoon Delights concert featuring a Woodwind Quintet Thursday special events and presentations May 6 12:30 p.m.—Birthday celebration for all with May birthdays. Bring family and friends for lunch and birthday cake. 1 p.m. Join Eastern Michigan University professor Henry Aldridge in a discussion of the Jewish Film Festival film Hello Goodbye. May 13 12:30 p.m.— A registered nurse from Care Response will take and record blood pressures and address any questions. Free. (This event is repeated the second Thursday of each month.) 1 p.m. Join in to read from the book Grandmothers for Peace and create letters of peace for future generations. May 20 The JCC is closed for Shavuot May 27 1 p.m.—The Happiness Boys return with songs, humor and musical trivia.

6 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 IReligion/Shavuot

Mussar practice in everyday life Generations after Sinai: Shavuot 2010 Roann Altman, special to the WJN he period between Passover and generosity, and trust. For each middah, we with the Reconstructionist Havurah Shavuot provides a unique opportu- read classical texts, discuss how the material Marcy Epstein, special to the WJN T nity to prepare ourselves for receiv- relates to our lives today, and practice incor- his invitation begins with a wonder- at the stitching of summer and spring, gen- ing the Torah. How can we become better porating the suggestions into our everyday ful newsflash with back-story. eration to generation, Tuesday, May 18, 6:30 people, doing what we should be doing and behavior. Thus, for example, when study- Rabbi Sheila Peltz Weinberg, the p.m.–midnight at the Jewish Community not doing what we shouldn’t? One very use- ing the middah of honor, we might remind T mother of Abby Weinberg, an adult mem- Center of Greater Ann Arbor. ful tool is Mussar. Although ourselves that each person ber of the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist This year the group will pick up on the the Mussar tradition has ex- is a “candle of God.” This Havurah, has just published an “atypical re- themes of Shavuot with an exploration of isted within Judaism for cen- phrase can then serve to ligious memoir” (Surprisingly Happy, White collective memory, progressive religious turies, it has only recently been remind us to refrain from River Press, 2010). In it, she revisits some study, celebration of Torah, and intergenera- revived and become popular hasty judgment, to show of the great moments in personal life that tional sharing. The evening will begin with around the world. Some con- others more courtesy and collide in the creation of collective Jewish a potluck dairy vegetarian meal, with holi- sider it soul work, or spiritual kindness, and to feel great- memory: the summer of her father’s death, day delicacies prepared by Havurah mem- psychology. er openness and patience the sanctification and study of a Torah, and bers, plus songs, blessings, and introduction How does Mussar work? It toward the ideas of others. the way that Torah connects the author to to the holiday appropriate for people of all brings ethical study and prac- To experience how Mus- her father, her family to its faith, and a disap- ages. Rabbinical intern Aura Ahuvia will tices into the challenges of our sar can help people grow peared congregation (Adath Israel) of child- lead an exploratory teaching on Shavuot, everyday life. It makes us more and enjoy more rewarding hood to its many descendants among myriad with other lay-leaders to follow, paired study aware of what God expects of us in our rela- relationships, join the Mussar study session Jewish communities across the country. (chevruta), relaxing meditation, and more. tionships. And it helps us grow. Participants at Beth Israel Congregation for Shavuot, Stay tuned: The Havurah hopes to hear As the evening deepens, topics for these in the local Mussar study group, held over Tuesday evening, May 18. (See the Beth Is- more from R. Peltz Weinberg in a reading teaching include “Dor v’Dor: weaving Torah the past two years at Beth Israel Congrega- rael listings for complete information.) in Ann Arbor later this year. But not coinci- from Etz Chayyim though Spiritual Memoir” tion, appreciate the Jewish path it provides Joining a study group is the best way to dently, the rabbi’s narrative starts in summer, and “Repairing the Torah in Practice and for spiritual growth and its potent applica- experience the benefits of Mussar. A new the time hearkened by Shavuot, when the To- Interpretation,” to a reading of the Book of bility to everyday life. Mussar study group will meet this summer rah is thought to have originally been given, Ruth. Participants are encouraged to arrive The basic building blocks of Mussar are from June through August at Beth Israel when Jews paused in their wandering to make and depart as schedules and energies permit. the soul traits, or middot, upon which partic- Congregation. For more information, or to covenants dor v’dor, generation to generation Later, the group will continue with extended ipants focus for two weeks at a time. Sample register for this “Season of Mussar I” course and place to place, and the first outbursts of study and teaching with Rabbi Nathan Mar- traits that help move us along the spiritual sponsored by The Mussar Institute, contact summer harvest are offered. A Torah, in the tin, Rabbi Peltz Weinberg’s son-in-law and path and improve our relationships with course facilitator Roann Altman at roann@ rabbi’s story, finds attention, repair, and new associate director at U-M Hillel. Attendees others—whether at home, in the workplace, umich.edu or 483-8352 by May 21. n life, stitching together the heart of Shavuot should wear comfortable clothes and bring a or with God—include patience, gratitude, with its people. So it is that the Ann Arbor Re- chomesh (Torah text) if possible. All are wel- constructionist Havurah will come together come to attend. n This month– Lag B’Omer and Shavuot Moshe Yosef, special to the WJN Confirmation, Shavuot: a sacred connection he month of May brings us the op- With the exception of Lag B’Omer, the Terri Ginsburg, special to the WJN portunity to celebrate two holidays. 49 days between the second day of Passover hy is the Confirmation ser- Our Torah.” This name was given by the rab- The first is Lag B’Omer on May 2, and Shavuot are solemn days. These are the T vice usually held on or around bis to provide the holiday with greater sig- and the second is Shavuot, on May 19. Lag days of “The Counting of the Omer.” Each of Shavuot? An exploration of two nificance once the Temple was destroyed and B’Omer is a happy day observed with out- the seven weeks is associated with one of the W of the traditional names for Shavuot will help Jews were no longer an agricultural people. As door activities; picnics; bows and arrows; seven kabbalistic sefira that correspond to our explain the connection. One name is Chag Jews reenact the Exodus during the holiday of and bonfires. We are celebrating theyartzheit seven emotional/spiritual attributes. Each day Habikurim, which translates as the Holiday Passover, they imagine ourselves standing at of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. Rabbi Shimon within each week represents one of the same of the First Offerings. This name reflects the Sinai receiving the Torah during Shavuot. bar Yochai lived in the 2nd century C.E. and seven attributes in a minor capacity. This agricultural origins of Shavuot. In the Torah, The community is welcome to the TBE was the first to publicly teach the mystical gives us 49 combinations. We use these seven Shavuot is a festival marking the end of the Confirmation service on Friday, May 21, at aspect of the Torah known as Kabbalah. He weeks as an opportunity, each year, to refine wheat harvest that began on the second day 7:30 pm. Twenty tenth grade students will also was the author ourselves and be- of Passover. The word, shavuot, which means fully participate in this Shabbat service and of the seminal book come a better per- “weeks,” refers to the seven weeks marking will contribute their original thoughts and on this subject of son. Celebrations Each of us takes a different path the time from the first grains to the harvest. ideas on what it means to be a part of a com- Jewish mysticism, and even haircuts In the Talmud, Shavuot takes on an addi- munity and the responsibility they have for The Zohar. Since are discouraged as to bring us closer to God. tional name that is Z’man Matan Torataynu, maintaining it. n when is a yartzheit a we use this period which means “The Season of the Giving of happy event? Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai told to try to check our ego and keep it in its prop- his students to remember the day he died as er, humble (like matzoh) healthy perspective. “ the day of my joy.” So, we are taught, don’t So, on Lag B’Omer, get married, have a hair- feel badly about being happy. cut or otherwise enjoy yourself. Another reason we celebrate Lag B’Omer At the end of May, we celebrate the holi- is the cessation of the plague that killed day of Shavuot, the giving of the Torah at 24,000 of Rabbi Akiva’s students because, Mount Sinai. Moses brought down two tab- as the Talmud tells us, “They did not act lets. One tablet described the relationship be- respectfully towards each other.” Each of tween us and God (faith, the laws of Kashrut, Rabbi Akiva’s disciples felt that he, and only Shabbat, etc.). The other tablet described the he, truly understood his master’s ideas. Their relationship between us and our neighbors love for each other caused them to try and (prohibition against murder, robbery, adul- force their understanding on their peers. We tery, etc.). The art of being a well-balanced must realize that another’s understanding Jew is to hold those two tablets in balance in may take a very different form than our own, our lives. We should strive to be like Moses but still be very much the same in the sense in the way he brought the two tablets to us that it, too, is true. We all share the same one at Mt. Sinai, holding each tablet equally close God and the same one Torah. Yet, each of us to his heart. takes a different path to bring us closer to As on every Shavuot, Chabad House will God. So remember to embrace diversity and host all-night Torah study. Everyone in the extend love and acceptance to all who are community is invited to join in. n sincerely seeking to do God’s will. Rabbi Levy and this year's Confirmation class. Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 7 ICongregations

May activities at Beth Israel Congregation Elliot Sorkin, special to the WJN Lunch and Learn series May 18. Shavuot, the holiday commemorating Saturday of the month, and by Jessica Kander ter outings, primarily to serve in indoor events. Wednesdays, when there is no Jewish the giving of the Torah, is traditionally observed on the fourth Saturday of the month. The fami- Each activity will last approximately two hours holiday, Rabbi Robert Dobrusin, and Rabbi with an evening of study and this year’s pro- lies are invited to the regular Kiddush following on-site in an Ann Arbor location and will be Kim Blumenthal gram will offer many different types of sessions the Shabbat service at 12:15 p.m. where there appropriate for children ages seven and older. offer a lunch and for participants to choose from. are tot sized tables for the children. There is no minimum requirement to partici- learn opportunity The focus of the series of learning opportu- pate, just a willingness to learn how to help, an Lunch and Learn nities to take place through the night will be the Kehillat Shabbat, and Junior Congregation interest in teaching children about the value of sessions are held High Holidays. As the shofar sounded at Sinai, Kehillat Shabbat is a special program for 1st helping, as well as, understanding a larger pic- in the Garfun- so does it sound on Rosh Hashanah and the end through 5th graders, which begins at 11 a.m. ture of our community. For more information, kel -Schteingart of Yom Kippur to encourage Jews to engage in on May 8 and ends at 12:15 p.m. On May 1, 8, contact the Beth Israel office at 665-9897. Activities Center, teshuva (repentance) tefilla (prayer), and tzedakah and 29, an alternative Junior Congregation and 2010 Washtenaw (righteous deeds). These themes will be explored Moadon (gathering place) will be offered for New members in May enjoy 14 months from 12 p.m. to in a variety of ways throughout the evening. elementary aged children beginning at 10 a.m. of membership 1:15 p.m. Par- Sessions will focus on many different sub- Individuals and families who join Beth Israel jects including the need for continual self-ex- The Family Tikkun Project in May can sign up for 14 months of member- ticipants are asked Rabbi Robert Dobrusin The Family Tikkun Project is a new initia- to bring a dairy amination and repentance, one’s responsibilities ship, including the 2010 High Holidays, for the for tikkun olam—repair of the world—and tive in its beginning stages which aims to con- same 12 month membership fees. In addition, lunch. Dessert and drinks will be provided by nect Beth Israel families with social agencies the synagogue. The topics are: text study from the Machzor, the High Holiday $300 membership dues are available for new prayer book and from other sources in Jewish and work together in the Ann Arbor commu- members under the age of 35, for the first year, May 5 - “Memories of a Dark Weekend in nity over the course of an entire year. It is being November 1963 Part II,” considering the assas- tradition. In addition, there will be an opportu- including High Holiday tickets. nity for participants to explore the themes of the planned by a subcommittee of the Social Action sination of President Kennedy and how Rabbis Committee called the Family Tikkun Project. Open policy at Beth Israel and other clergy interpreted the event for their High Holidays using artistic creativity to express Planned activities for Family Tikkun may in- All of Beth Israel programs, services, and communities at the time; their own thoughts and a study session for teens. clude park trail cleanup days, serving dinners to educational opportunities are open to the gen- May 12 - “A Painted Ox and A Bag of Rai- The program continues until midnight when a people in need at Alpha House, helping out at eral community. For further information, call sins: Shavuot “the Holiday of the First Fruits” traditional cheesecake oneg will be served. the Food Gatherer’s warehouse, knitting warm 665-9897 or visit www.bethisrael-aa.org. You was a time of great joy during which the entire Facilitators will include Roann Altmann, co- woolies for kids in need, and other hands-on can now become a fan of Beth Israel Congre- people of Israel went on a road trip and even ordinator of Beth Israel’s Mussar Group; Ruth activities. gation on Facebook. The link is on the Beth the animals dressed for the occasion. This ses- Kraut and members of Beth Israel Congrega- The Family Tikkun Project at this time plans Israel home path, or you can google Beth Is- sion studies of one of the most elaborate and tion’s Social Action Committee; local Jewish to have six activities from May 2010–May 2011: rael Congregation Ann Arbor on your personal unusual celebrations in the history of the Jewish educator and Beth Israel member, Jack Love; Rabbi Robert Dobrusin; Rabbi Kim Blumen- three spring and summer outings, primarily to Facebook page. n people; outdoor service projects, and three fall and win- May 26 - “Miriam, Heroine of the Exodus.” thal; and others. This session will explore biblical and midrashic Following the 8 p.m. sessions, the festival texts that address the role of Miriam, sister of Ma’ariv service will take place at 9 p.m. and will Moses, in leading and supporting the Israelite feature singing and text study, The service will News from the Reconstructionist Havurah community. be followed by further Tikkun breakout sessions at 10 p.m. Details of session subjects and Aura Ahuvia, special to the WJN Women’s’ Study Groups times can be found at the Beth Israel Congrega- Learning Services continue prayer environment, how to construct effective Rabbi Blumenthal currently facilitates two tion website at bethisrael-aa.org Drop-in Learning Services continue month- mini-teachings and where to insert them; and study groups for women. For women in their ly at the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah. how to construct a good discussion question. 20’s there is “Study Shavuot (The Feast of Weeks Services— Designed to be highly interactive, the program The fruits of this group have already been felt in at Starbucks,” and celebrating the gift of Torah integrates active learning with prayer. Ques- the emergence of new leaders for entire services there is a separate The Ma’ariv service on Shavuot Eve will take tions are encouraged. or just for single prayers. “30’s/40’s” study place at 9 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18. The morn- The topic of the May 8 session will be “The The Reconstructionist Havurah holds musi- group.” Both ing Shavuot Services will take place on Wednes- Prophetic Voice.” Where do we hear the voice cal services with lay-leaders’ input on the fourth g r o u p s m e e t day, May 19, and Thursday, May 20, at 9:30 a.m., of the prophets in the prayer service? How Friday of every month, from 6:15–7:30 p.m. at monthly to look at in the Sanctuary. On the first day of Shavuot, does it compare and contrast with the other the Jewish Community Center of Washtenaw Torah and Jewish the 10 commandments are read and on the sec- voices found there? What is prophesy’s place County. For parents with younger children, tradition from a ond day selections from the Book of Ruth will today? Participants are encouraged to add pizza is served, with advance reservation, at 6:00 modern perspec- be chanted during the morning service. their own questions. p.m. A dairy/vegetarian potluck is held imme- tive, focusing on On the first day of Shavuot, Wednesday, The year-long Learning Service series con- diately following services. Non-members are issues of interest Rabbi Kim Blumenthal May 19, at 6 p.m., Beth Israel has scheduled a cludes June 5 with a celebratory siyyum, at welcome to attend. to the group. For more information, contact Delicious Dairy Delicacies Picnic Dinner. Par- which any of the year’s past participants will Rabbi Blumenthal at kblumenthal@bethisrael- ticipants are asked to bring their own dairy have the opportunity to share what they’ve Beit Sefer tours being booked now aa.org or 665-9897. picnic dinner and blanket to Beth Israel. The learned, and reflect on the personal impact this Families who are interested in enrolling congregation will provide desserts and drinks. new learning has had on their lives or attitudes. their students in the Ann Arbor Reconstruc- T- Shirt Shabbat with camp send off This rain or shine picnic celebrates community The group will also daven, in part, to the per- tionist Havurah’s Sunday morning religious T-Shirt Shabbat with Camp Send Off is and the love of Torah. It is customary to eat dairy sonal prayers composed by participants at prior school, called the Beit Sefer, are invited to ar- planned for May 15, starting at 9:30 a.m. At on Shavuot. While the origins of this tradition learning services. range for a personal tour while classes are in ses- this informal service, participants are encour- are not fully known, it is suggested that the Isra- Learning Services are held monthly from sion, between now and the last day of religious aged you to wear their favorite camp, college, elites refrained from eating meat as part of their 10 a.m.–noon at the Jewish Community Center school, May 23. The once-per-week program school or travel T Shirt. The Dvar Torah will be preparation for receiving the Torah at Mount of Washtenaw County. They are open to non- runs throughout the school year, for children given by Gideon Aronoff, the executive director Sinai. Following the picnic there will be a Minha members, and no RSVP is necessary. ages 5 though bar-mitzvah age. of Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, arranged by (afternoon) service and a Torah study session. The curriculum includes both self-paced the Social Action Committee. Children going to More information is available online at Lay leadership under development Hebrew language study, as well as a cultural and camp this summer will each be given a “goody www.bethisrael-aa.org or by calling 665-9897 The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah ethical component. The school is designed to bag” filled with things which can be used at to request the May “one page flyer” with the has been developing its lay leadership capacity, maximize participation both of students with- camp, complements of the congregation. Shavuot information. under the direction of its rabbinic intern, Aura in the Havurah’s services, holiday celebrations, Ahuvia. Since winter, a small group of inter- and volunteer events, as well as of Havurah Tikkun Leil Shavuot (Study on the Tot Shabbat and childcare ested Havurah members has come together members who may serve as volunteers in the eve of Shavuot) This month’s Tot Shabbat (for children on a monthly basis to explore and practice school. n Tekiah: Revelation and Re-creation will be through age 5 and their families) will be held leading services, while deepening their own the theme of Beth Israel Congregation’s annual on Shabbat morning May 8 and May 22 at For more information about Ann Arbor Recon- connections with the prayers. Past topics have structionist Havurah activities or to schedule a Tikkun Leil Shavuot. The community is invited 11:15 a.m. This is a free, kid centered learning included how to smoothly transition from one to participate in the study program beginning service with stories, songs, and participatory tour with a current Beit Sefer parent, contact Aura moment of the service to the next, how to work Ahuvia at 975-9045 or [email protected]. at 8 p.m. on erev Shavuot, Tuesday evening, activities, led by Peretz Hirshbein on the second with tempo, volume and rhythm to effect the

8 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 Temple Beth Emeth May events Rabbi Lisa Delson, special to the WJN Thirteenth Annual Mitzvah Day, May 1 Torah portion, Moses tells the Israelites This year TBE is partnering with Habitat about every seventh year is a Sabbatical year for Humanity on its 20th Anniversary. TBE and every 50th year is a Jubilee Year, where members will spruce up the Habitat homes all of the land is left untended and all inden- neighboring Perry Elementary School. Small tured servants are set free. teams will be working on projects from paint- On May 17, the group will be looking at ing decks, to building sheds, to making bird Parashat Naso, beginning in chapter four of houses and flower boxes. Two shifts of people Numbers. This Torah portion outlines laws will complete the work on 18 homes from about women and the Nazirite. For more 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a short lunch and service information, contact Cantor Annie Rose, at Perry School in the middle. The TBE Mitz- 665-4744. vah Day committee is thrilled that TBE members are able to be make a positive impact on a neighborhood in Washtenaw County. Jewish Hikers of Michigan JHOM hikes are designed to cultivate the love of nature, spirituality, social interac- tion and physical activities. They are target- ed for anybody who loves nature, and who likes to meet new people. Bring back packs, munchies and water. The hike will last 1 1 /2 to 2 hours. The hikes are not physically demanding, are friendly and scenic. For Men’s Torah Study, further information, contact Eli Avny at 883- Tuesdays, May 11 and 25, 7:30 p.m. 9522, or Rabbi Lisa Delson at 665-4744, or The group will discuss Be-Midbar email [email protected] (Numbers 1:1-4:20) on May 11 and on The May 16 hike will take place at the Farm Be-Ha’alotekha (Numbers 8:1-12:16) on County Park, at 2230 Platt Road, just south of May 25.There is always lively discussion, Platt Road and Washtenaw Avenue, at 1 p.m. with refreshments to enhance fellowship. Men’s Torah study is open to the public and Movie Tuesday always warmly welcomes newcomers. For Bee Season (2005) is the film for May. This further information, contact Roger Stutes- movie, starring Richard Gere and Juliette man at 327-9215 or online at rgstutesman@ Binoche, retells the story originally written sbcglobal.net. by Myla Gold- Spirituality Book Club berg. This with Cantor Annie Rose, movie charts Tuesday, May 4, 7:30–9 p.m. the progress This month’s selection is Invoking Angels of the young by Rabbi David A. Cooper. girl, Eliza Nau- “Have you ever experienced something mann, who so extraordinary as to leave you wondering unexpectedly whether some higher power or force were re- begins win- sponsible? We do not need to sit and wait for ning spelling the finger of Grace to tap us on the shoulder,” bee competi- explains Rabbi David A. Cooper, “rather, we tions. As she can practice gets closer to the invocation competing in a national spelling bee, the of angels— world around her changes because of her cultivating parents spiritual yearnings. Her father takes profound ex- up the study of the Zohar, and her mother periences that and brother take yet another path, leaving immediately Eliza to try to piece together her family. open us to The movie will be shown on Tuesday, guidance and May 11, at 1 p.m. As always, the movies are blessings from free and open to the public. Babysitting is the Divine.” available upon request. For more informa- Invoking Angels tion, email Rabbi Delson at ldelson@tem- is a book to help practitioners of any faith find plebethemeth.org. self-empowerment through an active relationship with angels, which Cooper views as en- Adult Education ergetics that serve as mediums through which Tikkun Leil Shavuot, God, humankind, and all of creation are inter- Tuesday, May 18, 9 p.m. connected. Readers are guided by this master Questions and Answers about God. Join Kabbalist and storyteller in a complete program Rabbi Levy and Rabbi Delson for a discussion of daily meditations on CD. about theological questions on chosen-ness, Rabbi David A. Cooper has been called the afterlife, and other topics. Cheesecake “one of today’s leading teachers of Jewish will be served. meditation.” An active student of the world’s Women’s Torah Study, great spiritual traditions, his many books in- Mondays May 3 and 17, 7 p.m. clude God Is a Verb (Riverhead, 1998). n This month, Cantor Annie Rose will lead the Women’s Torah study through two Torah portions. On May 3, the group will discuss the last Torah portion in the book of Leviticus, Behar-Bechukotai. During this

Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 9 ICampus

U-M Hillel Alternative Spring Break Jeffrey Herbstman, special to the WJN lowers and trees and butterflies ev- ite [i.e., Jewish] Mutual Association, AMIA, erywhere!” was what Marita, a seven the Argentine equivalent of the Jewish Feder- F year old girl, told us she wanted us to ation. At this site, in 1994, a car bomb explod- paint on the wall of the community center ed, killing 85 and injuring hundreds. Clearly adjoining her home. It was one of the few a defining moment for the Jewish population safe places for her to play and learn in the of Argentina, they recognized that they must sprawling shantytown nicknamed “Las Vil- rebuild, both spiritually and physically, open- las” by the residents of Buenos Aires. This ing a new building on the same site five years later. Although clearly ever present in the minds of those working and using the building, it was inspiring to see that the building was rebuilt and busy with enough activities to fill a 10 page newslet- ter. “Witnessing the strength and unity of the Jewish community in Buenos Aires provides incredible insight into what it means to build community,” commented Noam Kimelman, a masters in Pub- lic Health student. Speaking to what we are bringing back from our experience, Patrice Bazer, masters of Social Work student, said that she was “talking to everyone she knew about what a great experience [she] had” and Kendra Bostick, masters of Social Work student, said that she would never for- get how excited Marita was to design the mural for her community center, “She held my hand while telling me to

community center was one of the most moving places where our group of six graduate students sent by Uni- versity of Michigan Hillel traveled within the city to participate in service work. The week-long, graduate student Alternative Spring Break trip, the first of its kind at Hillel, Alternative Spring Break participants through U-M Hillel brought together volunteering in Argentina students from across disciplines from social work to business to make sure I understood…. We provided public health, to interact and dialogue with some of the supplies but that mural was all Argentine peers and the Jewish community hers in the end.” there. We sat around tables eating ice cream The trip not only provided an opportu- and discussed topics ranging from econom- nity to do service, but through some heart- ics to anti-Semitism to dating, learning from felt group discussions, we grappled with each other and exchanging ideas (except for some deep questions regarding where our dating, which was clearly the most inscru- responsibilities to engage in tzedek (social table problem). Dan Fellows, a masters in So- justice) work lie. cial Work student said, “I felt so comfortable Noam Kimelman put it best, “Although interacting with the students there, we had so the trip was brief, it was long enough to make much in common.” me reevaluate my decisions in where I focus Service was not the only focus of the my energies. Is it better to serve the global trip, we also had a chance to experience and community marginally or a specific commu- tour the Jewish side of Buenos Aires: visiting nity largely? And is that specific community the strongly Jewish textile district of Once, most appropriate as the Jewish community? walking around the Belgrano neighborhood Where am I best fit to affect positive change? and stopping at the L’Dor VaDor Elder and There are no easy answers to these questions, Child Care facility. One poignant moment but continuing to ask them is definitely a step occurred at our visit to the Argentine Israel- in the right direction.” n

10 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 ITeens/Youth

Always in fashion Noa Gutterman, staff writer ashion has always been a big ing others of your religion by keeping part of my life. My family yourself appropriately covered. We F embodies the idea that you wear tallitot and kippot when we pray should shop until you drop. Early in order to keep God with us, and to on, I learned that family vacations keep important Jewish symbols close required suitable walking shoes to our minds and bodies. The Has- and lots of sugar and/or coffee, (de- sidic movement institutes a dress pending on your age) in order to code to ensure appropriate modesty, make it through the rigorous day of especially among the women of this shopping. That being said, I love to Noa Gutterman movement. Even outside of the Has- shop. Whether it be gift shops or department sidic movement, there are fashion rules and regu- stores, thrift shops or strip malls, I just cannot lations. Excluding the traditional prayer garments Reason 48: get enough. I read fashion blogs online instead that other sects of Judaism choose to wear or not to of doing my homework. I pour over fashion wear, there is always a sense of piety in the clothes magazines late at night and on the weekends. I that we wear on Jewish occasions. In a sense, we even follow the trends in the Thursday style sec- elevate Jewish activity by the fashions we choose Each and every tion of the New York Times. On certain holidays, to wear. I think that prayer simply wouldn’t be as shopping even beats out eating in my family’s list meaningful if it was done in pajamas. of priorities. However, fashion is also dangerous Looking at American pop culture, Judaism territory. While there are classics like pearls and itself has become a fashion. Stars like Madon- student, striving for white button down shirts, trends are an entirely na and Britney Spears have begun to practice different story. No one, especially me, predicted certain types of Judaism, especially Kabbalah. that leather pants would make a comeback. Or While this experiment into Jewish mysticism that Ugg boots would stay popular no matter may have innocent intentions, some see it as a excellence. how much it looks like you’re walking around perversion of Judaism. After centuries of mis- with an exploded wool factory plastered to your treatment and exploitation, it certainly seems calves (I secretly love them!). strange that Judaism is in fashion. But no mat- Fashion in Judaism is an entirely different ter what happens with pop stars and their re- story. Traditional Jewish fashion is all about mod- ligious affiliations, to me, Judaism is a classic esty. However, modern American Jewish fashion fashion, just like pearls and white button down has become synonymous with Juicy tracksuits shirts. After all, it was popular long before togas and anything with a West Bloomfield area code. and strappy sandals were trends. Like Audrey Traditional Jewish fashion is about constantly re- Hepburn and Coco Chanel, I have faith that minding yourself of God’s presence and remind- Judaism will remain a classic for years to come. n

Ken Pardes announces Spring events Matan Naamani, special to the WJN

In the face of state budget cuts, disappearing programs, and

a lack of resources, the very things that make our public schools

special are being threatened. The Ann Arbor Public Schools

Educational Foundation is taking a bold stand. We are aiming to Campers and counselors celebrate Shabbat at Camp Tavor last summer raise one million dollars to help fund some of the very programs that Ken Pardes, the Ann Arbor chapter of the in- Tavor is located near Kalamazoo, about an an ternational Jewish Zionist youth movement hour and a half from Ann Arbor. Situated on could disappear. It’s never been more important to give. We can’t Habonim Dror, is bringing another academic the shores of beautiful Lake Kaiser, Camp Tavor year to a close. Ken Pardes aims to create a warm has been the home away from home for Jewish solve everything. But together we can all be part of the solution. and welcoming group for local Jewish youth youth from the Midwest for over 50 years. With where they can learn about Jewish traditions a lake, pool, kosher kitchen, dedicated and well- and history, and Israel, while exploring leader- trained staff, Tavor offers a fun, educational, and ship roles and community building. This year’s memorable summer. events have included a Tu B’shvat seder, where Habonim Dror around the world has been a participants discussed their impact on the natural strong presence in the Jewish community, pro- world; a Chanukah chagiga (party) with the local viding youth with a unique and enriching Jewish chapter from Detroit (called Ken Afikim), and and Zionist experience, as well as creating strong an outing to go ice skating at Campus Martius. leaders. Ken Pardes is always happy to welcome Ken Pardes holds events once or twice a new participants and is a great place to get in- month and is run by a tzevet (staff) of former formation about Camp Tavor. The calendar of chanichim (campers), who also often work as events for the remainder of the academic years madrichim (counselors) at Camp Tavor in the is as follows: summer. The tzevet works hard to create a com- • May 16—End of year Ken Pardes BBQ Join our quest for one million dollars at munity that is both close-knit and welcoming to • May 23—(tentative) Jewish history tour www.supportannarborschools.org new members as well as meaningful for mem- of Detroit (with Detroit area members Join our Facebook page and give us your reason at bers of all ages. Only a few months are left for the and families) Ken activities, so members are looking forward www.facebook.com/supportannarborschools For more information on Ken Pardes or to be added to, and beginning to count down the days to an- to the emailing list, contact Yael Warshai at 223- other summer spent at Camp Tavor. 8388 or [email protected]. For more informa- Camp Tavor is the summer camp affiliated with Habonim Dror and Ken Pardes. Camp tion on Camp Tavor, visit www.camptavor.org. Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 11 IYouth

JCC youth activities Deborah Huerta, special to the WJN Camp Raanana invites families to Hosts needed for Israeli counselors also needed to host several teenage members of Day School gym teacher Kim Braun will teach Each year two wonderful Israeli shlichim the Israel Scouts Friendship Caravan for one students a variety of old-fashioned outdoor annual Meet the Staff event night on Wednesday, July 28. games, including Spud, Kick the Can, and lots Camp Raanana, the Jewish Community join the staff of Camp Raanana, the Jewish If you would like more information or are of other favorites. Center of Greater Ann Arbor’s summer day Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor’s interested in serving as a host family contact Also on Wednesdays, a Lego Robotics class camp for children entering grades K–8, is summer day camp, to enrich the lives of the JCC as soon as possible. will be offered for students in grades K–1. This holding a free “Meet the Staff Bowling Extrava- campers and benefit the broader Ann Arbor class, led by Rocks & Robots staff, allows stu- ganza” on Sunday, May 23, from 3-5 p.m. The Jewish community. The shlichim are tal- JCC to offer Red Cross Babysitting Class dents to build Lego robots and then program Camp Raanana counselors and staff invite all ented young Israelis who have finished their The JCC will host a two-day American Red their robots using computer software. registered and pro- military service and chosen to spend their Cross Babysitting Class on Tuesday, May 4, and On Thursdays, a Yoga class for students in spective campers to Thursday, May 6, from 4–7 p.m. Pizza dinners grades K–5 will be offered. Taught by experi- join in an afternoon will be served both days. The class will teach enced yoga teacher Adele Kieras, this class gives of fun and bowling child safety, first aid, baby care, and develop- students the opportunity to enjoy warm-up at Colonial Lanes mentally appropriate play. Upon completion, games, learn partner and group poses, and ex- Bowling Alley, lo- students will receive a card showing that they plore breathing techniques. cated at 1950 South are certified by the American Red Cross. Also on Thursdays, there will be a basketball Industrial Hwy. The class is open to students ages 11–17; class for students in grades K–5. Benny Margolis There will be free students must have turned 11 by the start of leads this class, which teaches basketball tech- bowling and plenty the class or within two weeks to receive cer- nique, fun games, teamwork, and life skills. of snacks for all to tification. Students who are 10-years-old are Registration and payment for these classes enjoy, plus oppor- welcome to participate but will not receive cer- are due by April 29. Class fees vary. tunities to meet the tification. The cost is $75 for JCC members and camp staff and learn $90 for non-members. Third annual Middle School Game Night more about Camp Registration and payment are due by April The JCC will hold its third annual Middle Raanana. 23; late registrations will be accepted if space School Game Night on Saturday, May 8, from Located on a pri- is available. Registration forms are available at 6:30–10 p.m., at the JCC. For this event, the JCC vate beachfront at the JCC and at www.jccannarbor.org. will be transformed into a fun-filled arcade with Independence Lake games such as Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar Park, Camp Raa- Hero, Mario DDR, Wii Sports and more. A piz- nana is a great place za dinner will be provided and a movie will be for campers to ex- shown at 8 p.m. for those who want to give their plore new interests, fingers and legs a rest from gaming. gain self-confidence, The Middle School Game Night is open to build Jewish identity, middle school students as well as graduating and have fun out- fifth grade students. The cost for JCC members side. The camp offers is $20 (additional siblings: $18). The cost for nine one-week ses- non-members is $25 (additional siblings: $23). sions each summer Hannah Dubov welcomes campers with a smile Registrations and payment are due by Thurs- and provides swim summers serving as coun- day, May 6. Registration forms are available at lessons; arts and crafts; music; Judaics; nature the JCC and at www.jccannarbor.org. exploration; sports; free swim; Shabbat celebra- selors and Israeli special- ists at camps across North If you have a game, console, or accessories tions; and weekly special events or all-camp field that you would like to bring to add to the fun, trips. This year’s camp season will run from June America. Camp Raanana’s shlichim not only have a contact Deborah Huerta at deborahhuerta@jc- 21 to August 20, with extra program options cfed.org or 971-0990. available for the week of August 23–27. wonderful impact on the At Camp Raanana, campers entering grades campers, but they also Kid’s Night Out set for May 8 K–2 enjoy the benefits of experienced and nur- provide local families who Every other month, the JCC offers a Kids’ turing counselors and enriching activity ses- serve as host families with Night Out event featuring games, crafts, din- sions, including Red Cross swim lessons three an unparalleled experience. ner, and a movie or other special activities. The Carol Lessure, whose times a week. Campers entering grades 3–5 Gilad Bonfil and Erika Yasaityte, 2009 camp shlichim next Kids’ Night Out will be held on Saturday, participate in Camp Raanana’s swim lessons family hosted a shaliach for May 8, from 6:30–10 p.m., at the JCC. and other activity offerings, and also choose an several summers, remarked that their shaliach New JCC youth enrichment classes This Kids’ Night Out will feature the hilari- enriching specialty each week such as boating, quickly became part of the family and capti- The JCC is planning an exciting schedule ous movie Flubber, starring Robin Williams digital photography, martial arts, Lego Ma- vated her two young sons with stories of Is- of after-school classes for the March–April as an absent-minded professor who creates nia, yoga, drama, drumming, Clay Creations, raeli life. She said, “When we volunteered to session. Youth Enrichment classes for elemen- a rubbery substance that allows objects to fly World of Sports, and more. Campers enter- host one of the shlichim for the first time, I tary students will run for six weeks, beginning through the air. Participants will get to make ing grades 6–8 participate in Camp Raanana’s wasn’t sure our location and modest accom- Monday, May 3, and continuing through the their own slimy flubber concoction before en- Pioneer Adventure Program, featuring exciting modations would be sufficient. In fact, Camp week of June 7. These fun and stimulating af- joying the film and a pizza dinner. field trips and fun mitzvah projects each week. Rannana assured us that all the shlichim need ternoon classes run from 4:20–5:20 p.m. and Kids’ Night Out events are open to JCC The annual Meet the Staff bowling event is a is to be included in family activities and be are open to both JCC members and non-mem- members and non-members in grades K–5. great chance for campers to meet their counsel- given a private place to sleep. What you re- bers. Snack and supervision in the JCC’s after- Since this will be the last Kids’ Night Out of ors and fellow campers for this summer. Camp ceive in return is a life experience!” school programs before each class are included the year, this event is also open to students Director Deborah Huerta and Assistant Camp Two wonderful shlichim—one male and for all class participants. who will be entering kindergarten in the fall. Director Shoshana Jackson will be on hand at one female—will be sharing their talents and On Mondays, a Super Soccer class will be The cost for JCC members is $20 (additional this year’s event to answer parents’ questions enthusiasm with Camp Raanana this summer. offered for students in grades K–5. The class siblings: $18). The cost for non-members is and accept registration forms before the June 1 Jonathon Lerman lives in Reut and is looking will be taught by Hebrew Day School gym $25 (additional siblings: $23). Registrations registration deadline. Families are encouraged forward to serving as Camp Raanana’s Israel teacher Kim Braun and will include practice of and payment are due by Thursday, May 6. to submit their registration forms prior to the Culture Specialist this year. Adi Rinker of Haifa fundamentals and lots of fun games. Registration forms are available at the JCC Meet the Staff event, however, since sessions is also excited to be joining Camp Raanana as On Tuesdays, a class called The Art of Paint- and at www.jccannarbor.org. n may fill up earlier. a head counselor for the entering third grade ing will be offered for students in grades 1–5. For more information about Camp Raa- group this summer. Art teacher Katherine Wilson will introduce For more information on all JCC youth activities, nana or to RSVP for the May 23 event, contact Lerman and Rinker will be arriving in Ann students to a variety of painting techniques, contact Deborah Huerta at deborahhuerta@jc- Deborah Huerta at [email protected] Arbor around June 16 and staying for approxi- including textural paint, monoprints, tie-dye, cfed.org or 971-0990. or 971-0990. You may also visit www.Cam- mately nine weeks. The JCC is seeking several foil etchings, color resists and more. pRaanana.com to learn more about Camp host families who can host for about three On Wednesdays, there will be an Outdoor Raanana and read bios of all the staff. weeks for each of the shlichim. Host families are Games class for students in grades 2–5. Hebrew

12 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 13 IYouth

Distance learning with HDS alumna Julianna Scheiman Dina Shtull, special to the WJN ello Julianna! We are very excited Fifth graders asked Scheiman: “We read about learning with you.” Thus be- your HDS yearbook page, and you said you H gan a conversation on Wikispaces wanted to be a movie star. What made you between Hebrew Day School fifth grade stu- decide to become an astronaut?” dents and HDS alumna Julianna Scheiman. “I no longer want to become a movie star,” (Wikispaces is a computer hosting service answered Scheiman. “But the ability to speak that provides free online space to educators in front of a large crowd is an important skill and students.) Scheiman, a student at Dart- for an astronaut who visits many schools after mouth College, is teaching the HDS class a mission. Astronauts also have to keep their about her experience at National Aeronautics cool in high stress situations so that they can and Space Administration (NASA) where effectively complete a task.” In response to a question on when her interest in space began, Scheiman told the fifth graders, “I have always loved science. It has the amazing ability to answer the question ‘Why?’ If scientists don’t know the answer, they encourage students like you and me to create experiments to answer the question.” “In the photo you sent us, are you really in a space craft?” one student asked.

she served as an intern. Scheiman in- terned at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas, where astronauts are trained, and at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, where the rocketry is developed. “I am a huge fan of NASA,” wrote fifth grader, Zachary Bernstein, to Scheiman, “In the picture, I’m in the shuttle motion- “so I’m very excited that you are coming!” based simulator. It’s a lot like a ride at Dis- Following the dialogue on wikispaces, Schei- ney World in that it simulates take-off and man appeared on a large SMART Board landing by moving the capsule. It’s quite re- video screen in the classroom via Skype, alistic; during launch the simulator actually (a software application that allows users to puts you perpendicular to the floor and vi- make phone calls over the internet, and view brates to simulate the types of vibrations an the speaker). “Let’s test your NASA knowl- astronaut experiences. It has all of the exact edge,” Scheiman began. “What does NASA same controls as the real shuttle and is used stand for? How many astronauts can live on to train astronauts for launch and landing.” the International Space Station (ISS)? How The exchange between the fifth graders do astronauts train for weightlessness?” The and Scheiman continued with another ques- students did well on the first question. Their tion: “After you go into space, do you think answers varied on the others. you could come and visit our school?” asks “Up to six astronauts can live for a Mira Kaufman. prolonged period on the ISS,” explained “Of course,” answers Scheiman! “I’ll be Scheiman. “When a shuttle flight picks up sure to let you know if I get selected for the astronauts and drops off cargo, there can astronaut corp! Basic training for those se- be significantly more than six astronauts on lected is two years, and an additional year if board,” she continued. “To train astronauts you are selected to go on a mission. I’ll let for weightlessness, NASA uses the KC-135, you know if I get to go into outer space.” an aircraft which is maneuvered to create a What are the topics of upcoming lessons? weightless environment for up to 45 seconds. Scheiman will review the types of training Astronauts also use a Neutral Buoyancy Lab necessary to get ready for a mission as well (NBL), which is the world’s biggest swim- as the types of technologies that are needed ming pool. They go scuba diving in their to prepare for space entry. On a lighter note, space suites and practice their space walks in she will also talk about the food that astro- a life size model of the ISS.” nauts eat in space. Julianna Scheiman is studying math, phys- For more information about Hebrew Day ics and engineering, and preparing herself for School and its graduates, contact 971-4633 or astronaut training. She graduated from HDS visit www.hdsaa.org. n in 2000 and went on to study at Clague Mid- dle School and Huron High School.

14 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 Susurrus Rosanne Cash: The List Jordi Savall and La Capella Reial De Catalunya with Hesperion XXI and Tembembe Ensamble Continuo Paul Taylor Dance Company Mariinsky Orchestra Valery Gergiev music director and conductor Denis Matsuev piano Schubert Cycle Concert 1 Takács Quartet Jeffrey Kahane piano Jerusalem Quartet Sanki Juku: Hibiki: Resonance from Far Away Ushio Amagatsu artistic director Venice Baroque Orchestra Robert McDuffieviolin Django Reinhardt’s 100th Birthday Celebration The Hot Club of San Francisco 132nd Season The Hot Club of Detroit ONCE.More Festival: A 50th Anniversary Moment The Historic Concert | The Tallis Scholars ums10 11 Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán

Murray Perahia piano Stew and The Negro Problem with Heidi Rodewald Carolina Chocolate Drops Handel’s Messiah UMS Choral Union Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra Jerry Blackstone conductor Laurie Anderson’s Delusion

Renée Fleming soprano Grupo Corpo Joanne Shenandoah Sequentia Baby Loves Salsa The Cleveland Orchestra Franz Welser-Möst conductor Pierre-Laurent Aimard piano Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis

Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg violin New Century Chamber Orchestra Series packages on sale! Blues at the Crossroads Visit www.ums.org for complete details. Big Head Todd & The Monsters David “Honeyboy” Edwards Martin McDonagh’s St. Petersburg Philharmonic Hubert Sumlin The Cripple of Inishmaan Yuri Temirkanov conductor Cedric Burnside Druid and Atlantic Theater Company Nikolai Lugansky piano Lightnin’ Malcom Garry Hynes director Septeto Nacional Ignacio Piñeiro Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 Rafał Blechacz piano de Cuba Detroit Symphony Orchestra Vijay Iyer Trio and UMS Choral Union Schubert Cycle Concert 3 Rudresh Mahanthappa’s Apex Leonard Slatkin conductor Takács Quartet Jeffrey Kahanepiano Concertante and Rafał Blechacz piano Bach Collegium Japan Paul Katz cello Masaaki Suzuki conductor Merce Cunningham Dance Company John Feeney double bass Schubert Cycle Concert 2 Shakespeare’s Richard III Tetzlaff Quartet Takács Quartet and The Comedy of Errors Edward Hall director Tony Allen’s Secret Agent Kodo “Songs and Waltzes of Love” Scharoun Ensemble Berlin Chamber musicians of the Call the UMS Ticket Office for a free brochure! Berlin Phiharmonic 734.764.2538 | www.ums.org Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 AM to 5 PM Sat: 10 AM to 1 PM

A Washtenaw Jewish NewsAd May#2 2010— Washtenaw Jewish News First Proof of Ad Due: Thu, Apr 8 Final Ad Due to WJN: Mon, Apr 12 Size: 15 9.1875 x 12.75 Color: Full Color Ad Runs: May I Israel

Palestinian village and Israeli town build rare partnership across line By Sue Fishkoff WADI FUKIN, West Bank (JTA)—Mohammed together Palestinian and Israeli communities to before, and now they have become my friends,” fence should not go through this valley. Law- Mansara, a 70-year-old farmer who goes by the protect their shared water resources, fostering says Gridinger, showing off a scarf Mansara yers for the village are arguing on environmen- name Abu Mazen, indicates with a sweep of his peace and long-term cooperation based on brought back for her from Mecca, where he tal grounds—a first in a security fence dispute, arm the fruit trees and vegetables he grows on shared environmental interests. recently went on a haj, or pilgrimage. “Not be- Bromberg says. his small plot of land in this Palestinian village Tzur Hadassah resident Tamar Gridinger cause of the ‘great principles’ of the project. Abu The section of the fence proposed for Wadi in the West Bank, population 1,200. says FOEME’s project prompted her to visit Mazen is just a friend.” Fukin is a secondary barrier, Bromberg says. Then he points to a small green hill on the Wadi Fukin for the first time several years ago. Relations between Wadi Fukin are not as The primary security fence already stands east western side of the village topped by a tidy A group of Tzur Hadassah residents had been good with its Israeli neighbor to the east: Betar of Wadi Fukin, circling the Gush Etzion settle- cluster of red-roofed homes. That is Tzur Ha- buying organic fruits and vegetables from an- Ilit, a fast-growing ultra-Orthodox settlement ment bloc. The Wadi Fukin section is slated to dassah, an Israeli community of about 5,000 other source, she says. Then they learned that of some 35,000 residents on Mansara’s side of stop just south of the village, meaning villag- Jewish residents. FOEME had brought in permaculture experts the Green Line built in part on land originally ers, or anyone else, could walk around it and “Tzur Hadassah has such nice people,” he to help Wadi Fukin farmers give up pesticides belonging to the village. enter Israel. says in Hebrew. “They are great neighbors.” and return to the sustainable agricultural prac- Since construction began at Betar Ilit in “It makes a mockery,” Bromberg says. “If you Mansara could walk from his home to Tzur tices used by their grandfathers. 1985, Wadi Fukin’s 11 natural springs have have this open area a kilometer south of Wadi Hadassah in about half an hour, but it’s illegal. “When we realized that Wadi Fukin farm- dried up, and when Betar Ilit’s sewers back up, Fukin, why do you need a fence here at all?” Wadi Fukin sits smack on the Green Line, the ers were growing organic vegetables, it was like Mansara says, the effluent pours down the hill Following objections to the fence’s route in demarcation between pre-1967 Israel and the a gift,” Gridinger says. into the village fields. The Israeli government the Wadi Fukin area, a hydrological study and a West Bank. A portion of the West Bank security Now she and 25 other Tzur Hadassah fami- has sent notices to Betar Ilit to resolve problems study of the route’s environmental impact were fence is slated to go through the valley, cutting lies participate in a Community Supported Ag- caused to Wadi Fukin. performed, according to Israeli army spokes- off Wadi Fukin from Tzur Hadassah and from riculture project, where they pre-buy a month’s “The main spring is just a trickle now,” Man- man Avi Mayer. much of what remains of its agricultural land. supply of fresh produce from the village and sara says, showing visitors an empty reservoir “It was decided that the fence would be con- Similar stories repeat all along the Green pick up their allotment every week. (Israelis where water used to flow. “The water would go structed utilizing various engineering solutions Line, as Israelis and Palestinians jostle over the may cross the Green Line into the West Bank, into a channel and then to the fields. Now the that will limit environmental damage to a mini- route of the fence. but Palestinians need a special permit to cross channel is filled with garbage.” mum,” Mayer said, but the plan is still to build it What makes Wadi Fukin’s case different is the line into Israel.) On March 17, UNESCO declared that the along the original route. that it has strong allies across the Green Line: “Both sides gain from it,” Gridinger says. territory of Wadi Fukin and the neighboring vil- Even if Wadi Fukin manages to get the court Tzur Hadassah residents who buy fresh produce “We get inexpensive, organic fruit and vegeta- lage of Battir represent “the best preserved and to change that, it may only be a temporary stop- from village farmers, and Friends of the Earth bles, and they earn money.” continuously managed cultural landscape of its gap in the inevitable demise of the village’s ag- Middle East, or FOEME, an Israeli-Palestinian- Since 2001, relations between Wadi Fukin type in all the West Bank,” and merit protection ricultural lifestyle. Jordanian environmental organization that is and Tzur Hadassah have deepened. Wadi Fukin as a World Heritage Cultural Landscape. Mansara farms because his father, his grand- challenging the route of the security fence here farmers invite co-op members to an annual To farm, the villagers use terraced agricul- father and his grandfather’s father all farmed in Israel’s Supreme Court. hafla, or celebration, in the village, and Tzur ture, where water from natural springs is chan- this land. But none of his five sons have gone Three hundred Tzur Hadassah residents Hadassah residents have helped villagers navi- neled into more than 70 manmade pools and into the field. They are doctors, lawyers and en- have signed a petition against the fence being gate the Israeli bureaucracy. When one young used later to irrigate the fields. gineers, and have moved away from the village. built in their valley. villager with leukemia needed weekly medical “The farmers of Wadi Fukin have been About a dozen farmers remain in Wadi Wadi Fukin and Tzur Hadassah have had a treatment at Jerusalem’s Hadassah Hospital, co- using the same agricultural system for over Fukin, and Mansara is glad his children aren’t relationship since 2001, when they became two op members would pick him up and drive him 2,000 years,” says Gidon Bromberg, FOEME’s among them. of the first members of FOEME’s Good Wa- across the checkpoint reserved for Israelis, sav- Israeli director. “I didn’t want them to go into farming,” he ter Neighbor project. The project, which now ing him hours of waiting at the border. FOEME will use the UNESCO document says. “You can’t make a living from it.” n works with two dozen towns and villages, brings “I’d never met my neighbors in Wadi Fukin to back up its case that the West Bank security Multiple battlegrounds in fights over eastern Jerusalem By Marcy Oster JERUSALEM (JTA)—The day that Zacharia and left-wing demonstrators. The new Jew- without restriction, considering it distinct and Israeli property issue,” says Tali Nir, an Zigelman, 26, moved into a home in the Arab ish residents and counter-demonstrators have from Jewish settlements in the West Bank, attorney for the Association for Civil Rights neighborhood of Sheikh Jarrah, in eastern Je- also been accused of incitement; in one case, which Israel never annexed. But U.S. officials in Israel (ACRI). “This is a huge violation of rusalem, he got beaten up, he says. Jewish teenagers tore down a courtyard fence and others around the world do not recognize their basic rights for shelter and dignity, and “You get used to it,” Zigelman said of the in- erected by the al-Kurds. that distinction, calling Jewish neighborhoods of their property rights.” cident, which occurred about six months ago. The dispute in Sheik Jarrah is one of many built in the 27 sq. miles of eastern Jerusalem— Since annexing eastern Jerusalem, the Is- Zigelman, his wife and 5-month-old son, pitting Arab against Jew in the battle over including Gilo, East Talpiyot, Pisgat Ze’ev and raeli government has expropriated more than are one of seven Jewish families living in two eastern Jerusalem. Increasingly, this battle is Ramot, where Ramat Shlomo is—settlements. 6,000 acres of property privately owned by buildings from which members of an extend- the subject of international scrutiny and— Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not Arabs—more than a third of eastern Jerusa- ed Palestinian family were evicted last summer when it comes to Jews moving into eastern include the neighborhoods of eastern Jerusa- lem, according to ACRI. after Israel’s Supreme Court determined that Jerusalem—widespread condemnation. lem in the 10-month settlement construction According to Ir Amim, an Israeli group the property was owned by a Jewish group In Israel, it is the projects to settle Jews in freeze he began last November. that advocates for Palestinian rights in Jeru- called Nachalat Shimon. Several members of predominantly Arab neighborhoods like Sheik Perhaps the most controversial method salem, the Absentee Law also has been used to the al-Kurd family continue to live in a wing Jarrah that have proven most contentious. by which Jews have moved into eastern Jeru- expropriate sizeable parts of the Arab neigh- of one of the homes, which has only added to Overseas, any effort to house Jews across the salem has been through the use of the 1950 borhood of Silwan, which were then given the tension. Green Line—the line that divided Israel from Absentee Property Law, which allowed Israel over for construction of the City of David, a The home is one of several in the neighbor- Jordan between 1948 and 1967—has proven to seize the property of Arabs who fled Pal- Jewish archeological site and visitor’s center. hood that Jews and Arabs are fighting over. controversial lately. estine to enemy countries during Israel’s War Located downhill from the Old City, some So far, three Palestinian families have been Tensions between the Obama administra- of Independence and didn’t return by Sept. 1, 2,600 Palestinian families and about 70 Jew- evicted from their homes in the neighbor- tion and Israel reached an all-time high last 1948. After Israel captured eastern Jerusalem ish families live in the 30-acre area. hood, and Israel’s Supreme Court has ruled month following an announcement during a from Jordan in 1967, this law was also applied The dispute over the homes in Sheik Jarrah, that four other Arab families must vacate their visit to Israel by Vice President Joe Biden that to Palestinian property there—meaning that where Palestinian families are being evicted for homes. Six other cases are under deliberation, Israel planned to build 1,600 new housing properties in the area owned by Arab families non-payment of rent to the properties’ Jewish and two additional claims were filed last week units in the ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of living elsewhere could be subject to seizure owners, has proven no less contentious. by Nachalat Shimon, which purchased title to Ramat Shlomo. without compensation. The homes under dispute sit on a 4.5-acre the 4.5-acre property from its original Jewish Home to approximately 18,000 residents, Meanwhile, the Absentee Property Law parcel owned by Jews during the Ottoman era owners several years ago. Ramat Shlomo is one of many Jerusalem bars Palestinians from making claims on their that came under Jordanian rule when eastern Protesters have staged frequent demon- neighborhoods that today are fully Jewish but former dwellings inside Israel. Arab rights Jerusalem fell to Transjordan during the 1948 strations in front of the homes now occu- were built on vacant land Israel captured in the groups say the law is discriminatory. war. Between 1948 and 1967, 28 Palestinian pied by the Jews. At times, violent riots have 1967 war and annexed in 1980. Most Israelis Application of the law in eastern Jerusa- erupted, leading to the arrests of Palestinian believe in Israel’s right to build on this land lem “opens a Pandora’s box of the Palestinian continues on page 20

16 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 Scandal dooms chances of Olmert comeback By Leslie Susser JERUSALEM (JTA)—Whether or not he is found Before the first stones were laid, two questions guilty of taking bribes in the Jerusalem Holyland already were being asked: How did the developers corruption scandal, Ehud Olmert’s political ca- get such excessive building allowances, and how reer is almost certainly over. was such an architectural monstrosity approved At best, the former prime minister and ex- at both the city and regional planning levels? mayor of Jerusalem can expect many months, The anomalies were so blatant that the police if not years, of litigation that will further tarnish launched an investigation, but it was soon closed his already tainted reputation and leave him un- for lack of evidence. electable. At worst, he faces a long prison term. The evidence of major wrongdoing only Olmert had hoped to make a dramatic return came to light several months ago when one of the to political life as soon as three other pending cor- real estate experts, or “fixers,” Charney brought ruption cases against him were resolved: the Ris- in went to the police with a notebook and oth- hon Tours affair, in which he is accused of double er documentation detailing a long list of bribes billing on fund-raising trips overseas, the Talan- Charney allegedly had made to city officials, sky affair, in which he is alleged to have accepted police and at least one member of the regional cash from American Jewish businessman Mor- planning committee. ris Talansky in exchange for granting favors, and Apparently in trouble with creditors and the Small Business Authority affair, for allegedly claiming Charney hadn’t paid him all he was granting personal favors to attorney and ex-aide owed, the fixer offered to become a state wit- Uri Messer when Olmert was trade minister. ness in return for immunity and the settlement For months Olmert had been insisting that of some of his debts. Although the man with the the charges in the cases would disintegrate the notebook has been named as Shmuel Dachner, way a long list of allegations against him had in there is a gag order against naming him or any- the past, including improper conduct in his han- one else as the state witness. Police apparently are dling of a privatization tender for Bank Leumi looking for another suspect to turn state witness while he was finance minister, and his buying and to bolster their case. selling of two luxury homes in Jerusalem. The case could boil down to a battle between The implication was that as soon as his name the two ex-mayors, both of whom maintain they was cleared, Olmert would make a triumphant are innocent. Olmert claims he approved only comeback to politics and possibly even challenge the hotels, and that the upgrade to extensive resi- Tzipi Livni for the leadership of the Kadima Party. dential building rights was approved by his suc- But the new scandal, in which Olmert, as cessor, Lupolianski, who was mayor from 2003 to mayor of Jerusalem, is suspected of having taken 2008. Lupolianski claims it happened on Olmert’s nearly $1 million in bribes for extending build- watch, when Lupolianski was a deputy mayor. ing permits to the Holyland construction project, Both accounts are problematic. The approval is likely to put to rest any lingering thoughts of for a residential building came in 2002, when Ol- a comeback. Not only do the dimensions of this mert was still in charge. But the Charney family also new corruption affair dwarf the others, but the made huge donations to Yad Sarah, a well-known preponderance of allegations against Olmert re- charity for the sick and aged founded by Lupolian- inforces a perceived pattern of criminal conduct ski, and to a yeshiva run by Lupolianski’s son. that Olmert would be hard-pressed to shake off Police believe both mayors were deeply in- in the political arena. volved. Lupolianski already has been arrested; Ol- The Holyland scandal also involves Olmert’s mert is expected to be questioned soon. Messer, successor as Jerusalem mayor, Uri Lupolianski, who also was arrested, allegedly served as the con- and Messer, among others. duit for the cash bribes to Olmert. The extent of the alleged corruption raises two The Holyland case points to a City Hall riddled central questions: Was the Holyland affair an iso- with corruption. Dozens of officials, from low- lated case or, as seems more likely, part of a system? level clerks to the top elected officials, including And to what extent was the municipal corruption the city engineer and two mayors, are suspected in Jerusalem a reflection of a wider phenomenon of taking bribes. in municipalities and local councils across Israel? Over the past few years, dozens of Israeli may- The Holyland saga goes back to the mid- ors have been prosecuted for similar offenses. 1990s, when Hillel Charney, whose family owned Under the Israeli system, all building projects the original Holyland Hotel, received a permit to and rezoning of land must be approved by mu- build three new hotels on the 30-acre site. With nicipal and district planning committees, and are the Oslo process in full swing, Israel’s 50th anni- subject to a process of objections and reservations versary coming up and millennium celebrations from the general public. The process is cumber- around the corner, Jerusalem was in dire need of some and the laws complex, and ultimately leave more hotel rooms. On paper, the initial blueprint considerable power in the hands of the mayors. seemed reasonable. With land scarce and expensive, this appar- To help shepherd through the project, Char- ently has created strong incentives for bribery by ney brought in experienced real estate people who would-be developers who stand to make a fortune apparently convinced him he could do much bet- if they can get mayoral backing for their projects. ter with a mega-sized housing development. The Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is plan- plans were changed several times before the cur- ning a major land reform that on its surface will rent building complex was approved. give the mayors even more power. Netanyahu What started out as a plan to build about 300,000 wants to cut the red tape by canceling the regional square feet burgeoned to more than 3 million, trans- committee stage, leaving decisions in the hands of lating into hundreds of millions of dollars more in a small municipal body. He argues that this will revenues for the owners and developers. lead to far more building starts and reduce the It also resulted in a plan for 10 12-story build- cost of housing. Critics say it could lead to even ings and two 30-story buildings. About half of more bribery and corruption because the regula- those already have been built on the Holyland tory process will be weakened. site, breaking the Jerusalem skyline with what ex- The quandary Israel faces is how to reduce the perts and Jerusalem residents long have described red tape without increasing corruption. n as the city’s worst architectural eyesore.

Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 17 I On the Web

Facebook is home to a new kind of Holocaust remembrance By Gal Beckerman NEW YORK (Forward)—Anne Frank’s Face- and with the knowledge of his relatives — is makes them suitable for commemoration? I book page looks much like any other teenage Piotr Buzek, a 22-year-old history student can’t find anything because they are built on girl’s: The profile picture shows Anne leaning from Lublin who works at the Brama Grodzka the opposite principle. All the most recent against a wall; her hair is tucked behind her Cultural Center. According to Facebook’s poli- stuff comes first.” ears; and she stares off sideways, daydream- cy, profiles of people other than oneself are al- Those engaged in the more traditional ing perhaps, a slight smirking smile lifting up lowed only with permission from the profiled forms of Holocaust remembering — namely, the corner of her mouth. person or, in this case, from that individual’s museums and physical memorials — are most- The comments on her “wall” are typical, too. family. Buzek set up Henio’s page in August ly skeptical of this new, looser, virtual form. “We share the same birthday!” and “I hate 2009, and since then he has been dutifully David Klevan is the education manager this girl.” A string of teenage commentary fol- adding “friends” and posting photos and for technology and distance learning at the lows every one of the many photos that have frequent updates. The center where he works Holocaust Museum. He was one of the orga- been posted to the page. One, in which Anne is was set up to promote the multicultural heritage nizers of what was called an “un-conference,” standing outside in shorts and a gathering last December of a sunhat, elicits this remark: museum professionals partly “she had long legs! woah! to try to figure out how to model” In response, a prepu- better use new social-net- bescent boy named Ricky la- working platforms in ways ments, “she did have long legs that don’t trivialize the content. ……i hate hitler.” Klevan looks a little warily Whether the fact that Anne at the Facebook profile phe- Frank has a Facebook page (one nomenon because he worries set up for “fans”) strikes you as that those posting and those creepy and inappropriate or as reading the posts don’t have completely normal and even access to a full historical con- charming will depend largely text. Young people respond upon your age and the number directly and sometimes of hours you spend on a laptop thoughtlessly to the image each day. or words in front of them — But the reality is that Ho- like the photo of Anne Frank locaust memorialization is in shorts. The pieces of in- moving onto social-network- formation presented are ing sites like Facebook and disconnected from a larger presenting new opportuni- narrative, and in a way that ties for remembering the victims The Holocaust Museum has been providing does not allow for any follow-up —- and bringing a whole new questions or further study. set of complexities. One of the information on the individual stories of “We prefer to maintain as much most popular and disorienting of the context as possible,” Klevan forms that this new virtual victims to a Web site called footnote.com, said. “If people are going to learn commemoration is taking is the the stories of the victims, it’s pref- Facebook profile. Even the U.S. an online service that is trying to digitize erable that they have easy access to Holocaust Memorial Museum supporting information and also is now involved with providing historical documents and use them to create being aware of where the content is information to fill out the details of being encountered.” some of these profile pages. virtual memorialization projects. But the Holocaust Museum has The desire to personalize the been providing information on the identities of the six million Jews who per- of Lublin and has an archive of information individual stories of victims to a Web site ished in the Holocaust is not new. What is and material on Henio’s life. It is from this that called footnote.com, an online service that novel is the combination of this desire with Buzek has created his virtual identity. is trying to digitize historical documents and a platform that is premised on empowering Buzek doesn’t think it strange that he use them to create virtual memorialization anybody to project his or her individuality should be speaking in the voice of a long-de- projects. One of the service’s bigger endeavors far and wide. ceased Holocaust victim. As he sees it, this is is a complete online simulacrum of the Viet- There’s no more successful example of a way of engaging a younger generation with nam Wall Memorial, where information can this fusion than the Facebook profile page of what he calls “our tragic history.” Focusing be added to fill out the identities of those who Henio Zytomirski. A small boy who must be on Henio and in essence bringing him back died. Footnote.com has used the information no more than 7 or 8 years old appears in a to life through Facebook is his way of mak- provided by the Holocaust museum to create black-and-white photo in the box provided ing the Holocaust real. 600 Facebook profiles for Holocaust victims. for a profile picture. He looks full of joyful “We can’t commemorate six million peo- Unlike Henio’s profile, the Facebook pag- young life. But Henio has been dead since ple,” Buzek said when the Forward reached es created by footnote.com are different than 1942, killed in a gas chamber at the Maj- him in Lublin. “I can’t imagine this number. the pages that individuals make for them- danek concentration camp when he was 9. But I can imagine one person. This boy was selves. But they do still have all the usual fea- On March 25, which would have been his one of them. I can imagine him. And if you tures — a profile picture, and a “wall” where birthday, dozens of Facebook users wished want to feel something deeper, you should pictures and comments can be posted— and him a happy birthday on his “wall.” As of concentrate on one person. You can touch it. attempt to do the same thing: create a virtual April 12, he had 4,989 “friends.” You can’t touch six million people. You can space for the individual victim to emerge. One element unique to Henio’s profile is touch one.” “Our running tagline has been, “History that it is being used to recount a narrative of Henio Zytomirski’s Facebook profile got is biography,’ “ said Chris Willis, vice presi- this little boy’s life. In status updates written some attention for being one of the first to dent of social media for footnote.com. “If we in Polish, Henio seemingly tells his story in use the site for that purpose. More than a few are changing the form that that biography is his own voice. On Sept. 29 of last year, for people were puzzled that Facebook could be- being presented, it is only to make it more example, this entry was posted: “Winter has come a place for memorializing. accessible. It’s going to make it easier for arrived. Every Jew must wear the Star of Da- “The thing to remember is that many of people to add more information about a life, vid with his last name. A lot has changed. these new social-media platforms are fluid, maybe even add the kind of information that German troops walk the streets. Mama says and information posted on them is very will help that life seem more unique and, in that I shouldn’t be frightened, and always ephemeral,” said Evgeny Morozov, a blogger the end, much more compelling.” n that everything is just fine. Always?” and contributor for Foreign Policy magazine. This story first appeared at Forward.com. The person posting in Henio’s name — “What is it about Facebook or Twitter that

18 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 Grillin’ 1/16 pg -- color JUNE RUN-- WJN ad 2010 2.3125 x 3.125” IWashington D.C. A community celebration that fights hunger where we live

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or shine) y, Ju (rain unda ne 13 M S Farm C , 3-8 P Saline Road naw ounci rbor shte l Grou n A Liberal Jewish groups optimistic about Wa nds / 5055 An Tickets Adult/$50 ($60 at the gate) Stevens’ replacement Kids ages 3-13/$10 By Ron Kampeas and Ari Bildner (A portion of your ticket is tax-deductible) WASHINGTON (JTA) to purchase tickets online visit our website at www.foodgatherers.org The Jewish groups who or call us at 734.761.2796. liked John Paul Stevens as a Supreme Court justice are getting ready to dish out the same like to whomever replaces him. www.foodgatherers.org Most of the Jewish groups closely tracking court decisions favor Ste- vens’ liberal record, with minor qualifications, and Elena Kagan Diane Wood Merrick Garland do not believe that Presi- dent Obama will choose a replacement who president’s pronouncedly middle-of-the- deviates from the norm. road approach is frustrating some liberals. “I would say the vast majority” of poten- Ruth Marcus, a Washington Post columnist, tial nominees “that have appeared in the press and Glenn Greenwald, the legal scholar at the represent the consensus views of the Jewish online magazine Salon, fretted about the like- community as represented in polls and the lihood of a Kagan nomination in particular, positions of national Jewish agencies,” said noting that her record is spare because she has Rabbi David Saperstein, who directs the Re- never served as a judge. (President Bill Clin- form movement’s Religious Action Center. ton nominated her to a D.C. appeals court Court watchers have named three top post in 1999; the Republican-controlled Sen- contenders for the post: Elena Kagan, cur- ate allowed the nomination to lapse.) rently the solicitor general; Diane Wood, a Kagan, who was Harvard Law School federal judge on the Seventh Circuit Court dean from 2003 to 2009, hired conservative of Appeals, based in Chicago; and Merrick professors, saying the faculty needed ideo- Garland, a federal appeals court judge on the logical diversity. As a Clinton administra- District of Columbia circuit. Kagan and Gar- tion domestic policy adviser, she argued for land are Jewish. greater executive powers, now a red flag for In all, there are 10 names circulating; the liberals because of the Bush administration’s total impression suggests President Obama expansive understanding of how the execu- hopes to avoid a bruising confirmation battle. tive branch may upend privacy rights in mat- Like many of the others touted, Kagan, 49, ters of national security. However, Kagan’s and Garland, 57, are moderates and have al- arguments under Clinton were confined to ready accrued grudging “best we can expect” the executive branch’s regulatory powers, approval from conservative commentators. and were of a different stripe. Janet Napolitano, the homeland security sec- Still, it didn’t help that William Kristol, a retary, another possible nominee, success- neoconservative icon, endorsed her on Fox fully governed Arizona, a state that trends News Sunday over the weekend. Republican. Judge Sidney Thomas is seen as The liberal-leaning Jewish groups that one of the more moderate members of the track nominees are unworried. Sammie liberal Ninth Circuit Appeals panel, based Moshenberg, who directs the Washington in San Francisco, and hails from Montana, a office of the National Council of Jewish western, conservative-leaning state. Women, counted Kagan as an “outstanding” Wood, 58, presents a thornier challenge; nominee who would have “fidelity to the rule she is a liberal who has challenged some of of law and constitutional values.” Kagan has the rulings of a broadly conservative panel, written expansively about the application of and she has upheld a woman’s right to an First Amendment free speech rights. abortion (as opposed to other potential Marc Stern, the acting director of the nominees, who might be assumed to be pro- American Jewish Congress, noted that as choice, but have not written controversial solicitor general, Kagan argued in favor of decisions on the issue). keeping a war memorial cross in place on Stevens, who is turning 90 this month, federal land in the Mojave desert—a case was a reliable liberal stalwart who earned where liberal Jewish groups have gener- lavish praise when he announced last week ally aligned with church-state separation- that he was leaving. Saperstein’s only caveat ists, who wanted the cross, which was first was that Stevens occasionally swung right on erected in 1934, removed. church-state separation issues, for instance “We have taken the position that this is on Oregon. v. Smith, which upheld a ban on not a basis for criticism,” he said. “Since she’s an Indian tribe’s use of peyote; the Jewish the solicitor general, she didn’t have a whole community, in rare right-to-left consensus, lot of choice except to defend. Therefore it backed the tribe. would be wrong to criticize.” “We think the Jewish community benefits Kagan or Garland would bring the court’s by a strong implementation of a strong sepa- Jewish justices from two to three (out of nine)— ration of church and state and the free exer- and would completely remove Protestants from cise clause,” said Saperstein, who otherwise the bench, with Stevens gone. Additionally, Ka- called the judge “heroic.” gan or Wood would bring the number of wom- Obama is meeting with Republican and en currently on the bench to three. Democratic Senate leaders next week at the These were not concerns for Jewish White House to sound out strategies for as- groups, said representatives of several orga- suring an easy confirmation to replace Ste- nizations interviewed by JTA. vens by July, so the new judge can be installed “We’re not looking for someone who fits when the court reconvenes in October. The a profile,” Moshenberg said. n Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 19 I Washington D.C.

Jewish leaders caught between criticizing, defending Obama By Ron Kampeas WASHINGTON (JTA)—With anxiety over the adequately reaching out to Jews and to Israel, Robert Wexler, the former Florida congress- Lauder, by contrast, directly addressed White House’s Middle East policy mounting and partly because of the emergence of what man who was Obama’s chief Jewish proxy dur- Obama and suggested that the president was in some pro-Israel circles, several Jewish orga- appears to be internecine policy wars. ing the election and now heads the Center for sacrificing Israel to improve relations with the nizational leaders have found themselves in a “The real story of The New York Times sto- Middle East peace, suggested a more proactive Muslim world. discomfiting position: criticizing the Obama ry is not that he’s changing Israel policy,” said posture was in the offing. “The Administration’s desire to improve re- administration in public while stridently de- another leader of an organization that has not “Actions in the next several months will be- lations with the Muslim world is well known,” fending the president in private against the been shy about criticizing the Obama adminis- gin to reflect it,” he told JTA. said Lauder, an active Republican. “But is fric- most extreme attacks. tration. “The real story is, why are officials leak- Notably, Emanuel held a behind-closed- tion with Israel part of this new strategy? Is it It’s an upside-down version of what pro- ing” misrepresentations of his policy “to The doors meeting Tuesday with a group of leading assumed worsening relations with Israel can Israel groups usually do: lavishing praise on the New York Times?” Orthodox rabbis. improve relations with Muslims?” U.S. government of the day for sustaining the On the other side, one leader blamed the Ne- Meantime, Jewish leaders are walking a One of the Jewish leaders said the contrast “unbreakable bond” while making their criti- tanyahu government for sending mixed signals tightrope trying to balance traditional defer- was instructive. cisms known quietly, behind closed doors. on how to handle the tensions between Israel ence to the administration with concerns over “For all intents and purposes, the WJC’s The criticism has come in the form of mostly and the United States over settlement policy. the tensions. They also object to what they see relationship with the White House ended polite statements and newspaper ads question- “Some are saying quiet is the best answer as the unwarranted pressure on Netanyahu as last week,” he said of the group Lauder heads. ing Obama administration pressure on Prime and others are saying loud noise is the best an- opposed to relatively little pressure on the Pal- “That’s not a relationship that pro-Israel Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, swer,” the Jewish organizational official said. estinians to join talks that Israel has embraced groups can afford to have over the next couple particularly regarding building in eastern Jeru- The official cited reports that Netanyahu with enthusiasm. Israel, they hasten to argue, of years.” salem. Such criticisms are voiced as well in pri- personally approved public letters—from Ron- remains America’s best friend in the region. Abraham Foxman of the Anti-Defamation vate meetings with administration officials. ald Lauder, the president of the World Jewish Lee Rosenberg, the president of the Amer- League has publicly criticized the administra- The defense comes up in dealings with irate Congress, and Elie Wiesel, the internationally ican Israel Public Affairs Committee, made tion on several Israel-related fronts. Still, he donors and constituents, in phone calls, e-mails, known Holocaust survivor and Nobel Peace the Israel-is-our-best-friend case last week at said, Jewish leaders have a responsibility to addresses to small Jewish groups, shul talk. The laureate—criticizing Obama’s demand for a Israel Independence Day celebrations, shar- defend the president “when talking to those theme of the complaints is consistent, and shock- halt in Jerusalem building. ing the stage with Obama’s top political ad- who accuse him of being an enemy of Israel ing, said multiple leaders, who all spoke off the Despite mounting criticism by some Jewish viser, David Axelrod. or a Muslim.” record, and reflect the subterranean rumblings leaders, polls show that Obama’s support among “Israel stood by America in spirit and in ac- “For many years, you had a lot of Jews who about the president heard during the campaign: Jews in general remains strong. His backing has tion after the tragic events of 9-11,” Rosenberg didn’t vote for President Bush who would say, His sympathy lies with the Muslims, he doesn’t dropped from astronomical highs after he was said. “As both our great nations fight the same ‘I don’t like Bush but I love what he’s doing on care about Israel, he’s an anti-Semite. elected, but remains about 10 points stronger scourge of terrorism and Islamic extremism, Israel,’” Foxman said. The Jewish Federations of North America than in the general population. Moreover, to it is Israel which serves on the front lines as an “Now the paradigm is changing. A lot of is sufficiently concerned about the phenom- the degree that it has eroded, the dissatisfaction outpost of American interests in a dangerous Jews are saying, ‘I like Obama, but I don’t like enon to have convened a “fly-in” of Jewish or- with Obama appears to have more to do with part of the world.” what he is doing on Israel.” ganizational leaders to Washington for an as unhappiness over his handling of health care The Wiesel and Lauder letters offered Foxman added that the most frequent ques- yet unannounced date in May. The leaders will and the economy than it does Israel. a suggestive contrast over how to handle tion he hears when speaking to Jewish audienc- meet with White House, State Department and Those who are expressing their concerns, the tensions. es is whether Obama is a friend of Israel. congressional officials, in part to “to convey however, are among the most active members Wiesel’s critique was oblique, not naming “I say yes—but what’s wrong is the imple- concerns about U.S.-Israel relations”—but also, of the pro-Israel community and help set the Obama, and deferred to U.S. orthodoxy that mentation of what he promised. What’s flawed insiders say, to allay those concerns. tone for the trilateral U.S.-Israel-Jewish leader- a final-status agreement must accommodate is the strategy, not the goal,” Foxman said. One recent flood of anxious queries followed ship ties. Some are acquiring their information Palestinian claims to the city. The ADL leader quickly added that despite the Obama administration’s announcement from anti-Obama e-mail blasts and consistently “What is the solution?” Wiesel asked. promises to learn from past mistakes, the ad- earlier this month of its long-awaited nuclear partisan critics of Obama. “Pressure will not produce a solution. Is there ministration’s handling of Israel-related issues policy. The reality of the policy was a pledge not Richard Baehr, writing in the conservative a solution? There must be, there will be.” is “going from bad to worse.” n to threaten with nuclear weapons those nations online magazine The American Thinker, cited that provably disavow their nuclear weapons The New York Times’ misreading of Obama’s capability. Nations that continued to maintain remarks in arguing that “this president is the a threatening nuclear posture, the policy made greatest threat to the strategic alliance of the Multiple battlegrounds in Jerusalem, from page 16 clear, would still face the prospect of a U.S. U.S. and Israel since the founding of the mod- nuclear response should they attack the United ern Jewish state in 1948.” refugee families that fled Israel during the 1948 eviction proceedings against the Palestinian States or its allies. McLaughlin & Associates, a GOP polling war were settled on the property in exchange tenants who failed to pay their rent. No action Obama named Iran as such a nation. firm, touted signs last week that Jewish support for paying a symbolic rental fee and ceding has been taken against those who continue to Yet instead of being reassured, donors and for Obama was eroding, but the survey ques- their refugee status. pay their rent. members of national Jewish groups flooded tions were premised on shaky assertions. One In the early 1980s, years after the area was Chaim Silberstein, who helped bring togeth- Jewish leaders with anxious queries about a question posited that Obama would support a captured by Israel in the 1967 war, two Jewish er the Nachalat Shimon investors, said the case posture that they interpreted as being aimed at unilateral declaration of Palestinian indepen- organizations came forward with Ottoman-era is one of Palestinian families “living illegally on embracing a nuclear Iran and forcing Israel to dence, although U.S. officials have consistently documents showing the property belonged property that does not belong to them.” Before abandon its own reported nuclear capability. said they would oppose such a move. Another to them. Israeli courts upheld the documents’ eviction proceedings began, he said, Nachalat Another persistent—and unfounded— suggested that Obama was ready to force Israel authenticity, which Arab groups maintain are Shimon offered all of the Palestinian families rumor has it that Obama removed the phrase to give up the Jewish quarter in Jerusalem’s Old forgeries. In 1982, an attorney for the Palestin- currently facing eviction compensation to leave “Next Year in Jerusalem” from the White House City, although there has been no such pressure. ian families living on the property inked a deal voluntarily. seder in March. Administration defenders cite signs suggesting with the Jewish owners under which the Pales- Nachalat Shimon reportedly plans to raze “Where the **** are they getting this?” asked that beyond the settlement rhetoric, the relation- tinian families would remain protected tenants the existing buildings and create a 200-apart- a senior official at an organization that has been ship is improving: Obama has increased defense as long as they continued to pay rent. ment enclave for Jewish families in the Arab publicly critical of Obama since last summer. cooperation, for instance, and strategic consulta- But most of the families refused to pay the neighborhood. Angst was stoked, too, when Obama spoke tions between officials of both nations are more rent in part because it would recognize the Jew- It’s not the only property in Sheik Jarrah last week of peacemaking throughout the world frequent than they have been in a decade. ish groups as the rightful owners of the proper- owned by Jews. American Jewish businessman necessitated by the cost of “American blood and “Our bond with Israel is unshakable and ty, and because the families believed the United Irving Moskowitz purchased the Shepherd’s treasure” through involvement in conflicts. It unbreakable both as it relates to security, as it Nations had promised the land would be regis- Hotel area with the intention of turning it into didn’t help that a New York Times analysis sug- relates to a common set of values and also as tered in their names after a certain number of about 20 apartments for Jewish families. That gested the president had said that the lack of a common strategic vision because the threats years, according to Orly Noy, spokeswoman for plan has been approved by Jerusalem munici- Israeli-Palestinian peace threatened U.S. troops to Israel are similar to some of the threats the Ir Amim. pality housing and planning committees. in other parts of the globe—even though the United States faces,” Rahm Emanuel, Obama’s Then, more recently, a group of investors Stephan Miller, spokesman for Jerusalem transcript of Obama’s remarks did not bear out chief of staff, said Monday on Bloomberg TV. formed Nachalat Shimon to develop the prop- Mayor Nir Barkat, told JTA that City Hall does any such linkage and other Obama administra- Jewish leaders welcome such reassurances erty for Jewish housing. The group purchased not get involved in issues of ownership. These tion officials flatly denied one existed. but say they are made defensively, and repeat- the property from the two original Jewish disputes, he said, “are addressed in the courts of Jewish officials said a share of the blame lay edly call on the Obama administration to be- groups that owned it and, eventually, began law, not by politicians.” n with the Obama administration, partly for not come proactive.

20 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 IOp-Ed

Jews must stay on visionary Obama’s side By Joshua Levine Grater PASADENA, Calif. (JTA )—When President it gone smoothly so far? Certainly not. movement, the environmental movement Obama took office last year, our country seemed However, since all parties to the conflict and the gay rights movement. They decry to be teetering. Eight years of war, monstrous agree that there is no military solution, Presi- any effort by government to address serious deficit spending, a breakdown of diplomacy, dent Obama, a statesman capable of under- problems like joblessness, health care and the and a disdain for science and civil liberties wel- standing nuance and complexity, is precisely environment. They seek communities only comed the new president into office. the kind of leader we need now. He has sur- with those who think and believe as they do. A mere 15 months later our nation, while rounded himself with Middle East experts, These are the political forces that hope Sarah by no means completely healed, surely is on including many Jews, and is listening to the Palin will run for president. its way out of this dark period. The economy American-Jewish community, the majority With the challenges we face, including is improving and jobs are slowly beginning of whom support a two-state solution. the threat of Iran to both the United States to return, stabilized by the needed, albeit not American Jews overwhelmingly supported and Israel, we need an American president popular, stimulus package. Obama in the 2008 election, and the majority who is methodical, smart, courageous and Doing the hard work that is needed in continues to support him because his vision for willing to do what is right even if it is not government is often unpopular, but Presi- our country—a vision of inclusion, strength popular. We need a leader who understands dent Obama does it anyway, and his hard through diplomacy, peace and providing for the workings of the world, has the respect of work is paying off. the neediest among us—resonates deeply with the world and, when needed, can stand up to President Obama passed health care reform, Jews. The battle for reform and improvement, the world. Being U.S. president is more than possibly the greatest domestic policy achieve- especially in the face of fear and misinforma- ignoring those with whom you disagree and ment in a generation. He is standing up to the tion, is a long one that requires perseverance. then attacking them if they do not capitulate. greed and self-interest of Wall Street. He supports With the challenges we face, We would be wise to embrace perseverance Being the president requires vision, courage, a women’s right to choose and successfully ap- when considering whether we should abandon perseverance and respect for diversity. pointed Justice Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme including the threat of Iran the president after only one year. The Jewish community knows that Presi- Court. He is committed to ending the prolifera- to both the United States and Ancient Jewish tradition in Pirke Avot, the dent Obama is this kind of leader, and we should tion of nuclear weapons. He takes global climate Ethics of our Ancestors, teaches that “while we continue to support him in his efforts to better change seriously. He values government transpar- Israel, we need an American are not called upon to finish the job, we are cer- our country and be a true friend to Israel. n ency. He is working to reintroduce America into tainly called upon to never cease from trying.” Rabbi Joshua Levine Grater is the spiritual the world as a partner for peace and justice after president who is methodical, For Jews, this applies to the task of building a leader of the Pasadena Jewish Temple and eight years of isolation on the world stage. nation that lives up to the ideals of both our smart, courageous and willing Center and serves on the national advisory And then there is Israel. President Obama Jewish sages and our American founders. board of J Street. The views expressed here are has committed himself to the Jewish people by There are voices who feel threatened by to do what is right even if solely those of the writer and do not represent committing himself to working for a two-state the accomplishments of the past half centu- any of the organizations he serves solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Has it is not popular. ry in the civil rights movement, the feminist

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Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 21 I Books

No Prize: Biography charts Joseph Pulitzerís path from immigrant cub reporter to newspaper magnate and boss from hell By Adam Kirsch NEW YORK (Tablet)—If you were an immi- ship full of these soldiers-to-be that Pulitzer he was acting on principle—he believed the grant sailing into New York Harbor at the close crossed the Atlantic; he ended up serving in Republicans had become the party of corrup- What bothered people about of the 19th century, the first building to catch the First New York “Lincoln” Cavalry, in one tion and the rich—but he was also position- your eye would have been the headquarters of several German-speaking units. ing himself for the future. Just as he moved Pulitzer was not that he was of the New York World, the tallest structure in Because he did not enlist until nearly the from the German press to the wider English- Manhattan. Twenty stories high, and topped end of the war, Pulitzer never saw combat, language press, so he left behind the Ger- Jewish, but that he was so by a gilded dome that reflected light 40 miles and he was discharged in June 1865. At loose mans’ preferred party. When he bought his out to sea, the World building was—as James ends, he decided to strike out for St. Louis, first newspaper, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, bad-tempered and hard to get McGrath Morris writes in his new biography a fast-growing Midwestern city with a large in 1878, he declared it would be “indepen- Pulitzer: A Life in Politics, Print, and Power— German immigrant population. He soon dent with a Democratic leaning,” and for the along with. “a temple of America’s new mass media.” landed a job as a reporter for a German-lan- rest of his life Pulitzer remained an impor- The newspaper printed there was as dom- guage newspaper, the Westliche Post, and be- tant power-broker in the Democratic Party. turned out to be minor). At the World, he inant in the city’s life as the building was in came a protégé of the its owner, Carl Schurz, continued to rack up a long list of influen- its skyline. Starting in the 1880s, Joseph Pu- a Union general and future U.S. Senator. tial enemies, taking on corrupt politicians litzer’s World revolutionized journalism with Schurz, Morris shows, was a role model or simply political opponents, including its signature blend of muckraking investiga- for Pulitzer, proof of how an immigrant (he Theodore Roosevelt. tions, crusading editorials, sensational crime More damning, Morris shows, was Pulit- and human-interest stories, and colorful zer’s treatment of his own staff and family. In graphics. Selling hundreds of thousands of the book’s last third, Morris draws a portrait copies, the World was the kind of newspaper of Pulitzer as a boss from hell—a microman- that didn’t just record history, but made it. ager who bombarded his employees with In the 1884 presidential election, the paper’s telegrams, even as he refused to set foot in support helped Grover Cleveland carry New the office. Editor after editor quit the World, York State, putting a Democrat in the White often to swell the ranks of Hearst’s Journal, House for the first time since the Civil War. simply because they couldn’t tolerate Pulit- In 1898, the World—along with its great ri- zer’s rages and nitpicking. He and his wife val, William Randolph Hearst’s Journal—led eventually led separate lives, and his children the drumbeat that carried the country into were terrified of him. When Pulitzer lost his the Spanish-American War. vision, because of detached retinas, in the For that hypothetical immigrant, the late 1880s, he became abnormally sensitive power and promise of America could have to sound, and he spent millions of dollars been summed up in the fact that the World buying and renovating houses in a hopeless was itself the creation of an immigrant—a quest for perfect silence. Eventually he pre- Hungarian Jew who arrived in the United ferred to spend time on his specially sound- States without a penny and without know- proofed yacht, literally cut off from the rest ing a word of English. Joseph Pulitzer was of humanity. born in 1847 in the Hungarian town of Mako By the time he died, in 1911, Pulitzer’s life and spent his childhood in Budapest, where had gone from American dream to night- James McGrath Morris and the cover of his new book his father was a successful merchant. (The mare. If Orson Welles had made Citizen Kane family name came from a town in Moravia, had fled Germany after the revolutions of Morris traces the rising arc of Pulitzer’s about Pulitzer instead of Hearst, it would Pollitz, where they had lived generations ear- 1848) could leverage his community’s clout career, as he turned the Post-Dispatch into a have been just as devastating a parable. It lier.) Like most of the Jewish middle class in into a career in journalism and politics. What moneymaker and set his sights on the capital might also have prevented Pulitzer from be- the Habsburg Empire, the Pulitzers spoke Morris does not dwell on is the irony that Pu- of business and journalism, New York City. ing so widely forgotten. The World went out litzer, a Jew, could so easily adopt the German- At the same time, he was leaving his Jewish of business in 1931, a casualty of the Depres- American community as his own. Back home origins far behind. The woman he married sion, and the World building was demolished Morris does not dwell on in Central Europe, Pulitzer’s Jewishness—no in 1878, Kate Davis, was a distant relative of in 1955. (Spare a thought for it if you ever matter how assimilated he might be—would Jefferson Davis, and the wedding took place take the car on-ramp to the Brooklyn Bridge, the irony that Pulitzer, a have been his defining trait, marking him out in the Episcopal Church of the Epiphany in which was built over its remains.) Today, Pu- permanently from his German and Hungari- Washington. “Success, power, and wealth in litzer’s name is remembered primarily be- Jew, so easily adopted the an neighbors. In America, however, the bonds the United States had only one place of wor- cause of the prizes he endowed, along with of language meant more than the divisions ship, the Episcopal church,” Morris writes, Columbia’s Journalism School, at the end of German-American of religion and ethnicity, and Pulitzer was and for the rest of his life Pulitzer would his life. accepted, with remarkably little friction, as a belong to it. He even encouraged the rumor What makes Morris’s biography especially community as his own. spokesman for St. Louis’s Germans. “that his mother had not been Jewish but timely, however, is that we are now witness- German, and they eagerly embraced Juda- In 1870, just six years after he arrived rather was Catholic”—though it is doubtful ing the death of the whole style of newspa- ism’s new Reform movement. “By the time in the country, Pulitzer was elected to the that this would have seemed much of an im- per publishing Pulitzer invented. The big city Joseph reached his teenage years,” Morris Missouri state legislature. His district was provement to America’s WASP elite. daily, the kind of newspaper that everyone writes, “being Jewish remained part of his populated by German Republicans and Irish Pulitzer’s Jewishness was an open se- read because everyone had to read it—from life, but no longer the center of it.” Democrats, and he campaigned on straight- cret, however, and his enemies were happy politicians and businessmen to laborers and Pulitzer might well have remained in this forwardly ethnic grounds. The Irish, he wrote to make use of it. Morris quotes a few of homemakers—is a thing of the past. So are assimilated Jewish milieu if it hadn’t been for in a newspaper article, “would vote for the their jibes—he was called “Jewseph Pulit- the profits that such papers used to bring in. the death of his father, when he was 11 years Devil himself in order to defeat the candi- zer,” and attention was drawn to his “nasal Pulitzer’s paper made him the 19th-century old. This was the most devastating of the dates of the Germans. What do our German protuberance”—but on the whole, it is re- equivalent of a billionaire; today, dying pa- many deaths that afflicted the family when friends have to say about that?” Later he was markable how mild and ineffective this kind pers look for billionaires to bail them out Joseph was growing up—of nine children, appointed to St. Louis’s police commission of baiting was, especially compared to the as a public service. A century after Pulitzer’s only two survived to adulthood—and it re- as holder of its traditionally German seat. kind of ideological anti-Semitism then being death, the newspaper now promises to join duced them to poverty. When Joseph reached But as Morris shows, in a detailed excur- directed against Jewish press figures in Eu- the other great technologies of the Gilded the age of 17, in 1864, he decided to strike sion into post-Civil War political history, rope. What bothered people about Pulitzer Age—from railroads to coal mining—on the out on his own. Ordinarily he could not have Pulitzer’s rise was stalled by the failure of was not that he was Jewish, but that he was scrap heap of American history. n afforded the passage to America, but thanks the Liberal Republican movement, which so bad-tempered and hard to get along with. Reprinted from Tabletmag.com, a new read on to the Civil War recruiters were scouring Eu- Schurz led as a rebellion against President As early as 1870, while he was a state legisla- Jewish life. rope for young men willing to serve as paid Ulysses S. Grant. When Pulitzer subsequently tor, Pulitzer became notorious for shooting substitutes for Northern draftees. It was on a changed his party affiliation to Democrat, a man during a political dispute (the injury

22 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 IOn Another Note

Hebrew Day School music teacher, Bev Warshai Sandor Slomovits, staff writer ev Warshai has been teaching music sentences in Hebrew maybe, but you WJN: What do you focus on with the kids other aspects of music that I’m not as fa- at Hebrew Day School for eleven know a lot of objects. (Laughter) And I at HDS? miliar with. years, but has been a song leader and learned a lot of Hebrew through songs. B Warshai: I teach all the grades, K through 5. WJN: So what’s next for you? Hebrew teacher long before that. I recently It’s how I remembered the Hebrew. There I see them each for a half hour a week. I talked with her about her lifelong love of are still constructs in Hebrew, masculine do holiday songs, Hebrew songs. I’ve de- Warshai: I’ve been working on computerizing Jewish music and of Hebrew. or feminine words, we don’t have that in veloped a curriculum to introduce them a curriculum, which is a big task, because English, and I have to sing a certain line in Warshai: I started teaching at HDS in 1991. to rhythm and balance and voice and ba- I’ve kept records of all the music I’ve been a song to remember whether window is a I subbed for the art teacher, Ricki Lauffer, sic rhythm instruments. I start teaching doing for eleven years, what I’ve been teach- masculine or feminine word. for a semester, (I’d been doing sewing, them notation in the third grade so when ing to all the grades and now I’m compiling crafts before, when my kids were real WJN: What drew you to the kibbutz? they start recorder in fourth grade they’ll it into a curriculum. It gets easier if you do little) and then I was hired to come back, be prepared for that. In fifth grade they that. Each year it gets a little easier for me to Warshai: I went on a program through the initially as a Hebrew teacher, but because do violin. go through the school year and know what Habonim, Habonim Workshop, which is a I was expecting my third child I decided It’s tricky when you go from one grade to expect and how to make things appropri- year in Israel after high school. It’s kind of to take the year off. A couple of years later to another to remember you have to switch ate for each grade. a gap year. The year I I did come back, working in the Hebrew gears each time. My I would also like to take my own music happened to go was program. I subbed as the music teacher favorite part is when lessons. It’s been on my agenda of things during the Yom Kip- for a month and Sheva Locke, who was we’re not aiming for to do, to learn more guitar, more piano. pur War in 1973. We then the principal said, “Why don’t you a performance and Someday I’d love to teach Hebrew through got there a month stay and keep doing it.” I’ve loved it. the students can just song to high schoolers or adults. An evening before the war broke enjoy the flow of a course, but I’ve been waiting to do evening WJN: Was this your first experience teaching out. It made a great song, they don’t have stuff till my youngest is out of school. One music? impression on me, to to master a song. more year, he’s in eleventh grade. say the least. I always Warshai: It was my first experience in a Different kids will I went to Hava Na Shira a few times (a promised myself af- school setting. I had done song leading at get different things four-day seminar sponsored by the Reform ter that year that I summer camp, at Habonim Camp Tavor, out of it. Some kids Movement at their camp in Wisconsin ev- would go back to see out by Kalamazoo. I grew up attending the will connect to the ery May after Memorial Day) and I was if I wanted to stay camp, loving watching the older counsel- words, some to the enthralled by it. It was wonderful, working there. You make a ors teaching the songs, mostly Hebrew melody, one may with Debbie Friedman and Craig Taub- real connection with songs, and later when I was a counselor not sing but he’s go- man, learning right from them. I’d like the country when I continued to do that. That’s where I got ing to drum on his to be able to get back to that a few more it’s going through a most of my singing and songs and back- knee the whole time times. People come from all over the coun- hard time. A couple ground and love for music. and you can tell he’s try, all musicians and choir people. When of years after college, getting into it. I love we did Birkat Ha’Mazon, people broke out WJN: Did you grow up in Kalamazoo? I was in California Bev Warshai it when we get to into five-part harmony! (Laughter) It was and I was ready to do something where we’re moving and very moving. Inspiring. Warshai: No, in Detroit. I’m a Detroit girl move from there, so I decided to go back singing. What I love about Israeli music The folk stuff is what’s neat to me— from Southfield, Oak Park. and visit Israel. I visited, I stayed six years, is that for every song there’s a dance that that anybody can sing at any time. You met my husband there, he’s Israeli; my WJN: Has your work always centered on goes with it. It’s a total body experience. I don’t even need an instrument. Your voice oldest daughter was born there. teaching? love to learn the words to the songs I’ve is your instrument and you can always Warshai: I’ve always worked with people. WJN: Did you sing a lot in the kibbutz? been dancing all these years, and pass it to carry that around. All that comes, I think, the kids, because I think that’s something from my dad. He didn’t play any instru- I’d worked in crafts. I worked in occu- Warshai: There was a choir and a couple of pational therapy at a psychiatric hospi- unique to Jewish culture. In America we ment; he doesn’t know how to read a note. groups that got together to sing. It was used to have some songs that had line I see singing as way to touch and move tal after college, and also worked with fun to be a singer in a band, sing for dif- emotionally disturbed youth. I lived on dances to them, but in Israel, almost ev- many people at once, and with a message. ferent occasions and holidays, but it was ery song eventually gets a dance choreo- I grew up with that, seeing the role of the a kibbutz, Kibbutz Gezer, and I was cul- not a big thing. tural arts director there for a while. I was graphed to it. civil rights songs, or the feeling of sing- On that gap year, earlier, when I was ing together at camp, or listening the folk there for six years between 1980 and 1986, WJN: I knew that was the case in the Forties, on another kibbutz, kibbutz families ad- albums of Pete Seeger, the Weavers, and after college, where I had done an inde- Fifties and Sixties, but it’s still true? opted us and there was a member of the Woodie Guthrie that my parents played. pendent study major in Social Sciences, kibbutz who organized a choir. It was the Warshai: It’s still true. I can’t keep up with It’s a powerful and far reaching educa- called Group Communication and Cre- first time I was exposed to harmony sing- the new dances. I like to do the old ones, tional method that has staying power, ative Expression, at the Residential Col- ing and parts and I really liked it. I was because the new ones, the styles have way beyond a lecture or movie, because lege at U-M. just singing some of those songs in the changed, there’s more turning and they’re people can feel it over and over again as a car the other night! They’ve really stuck WJN: Which is exactly what you’re doing fast and they’re not as symmetrical where song gets stuck in their mind, or they sing in my mind. now! (Laughter) you can feel it and know what’s coming it wherever they may be. I grew up loving Warshai: Exactly, right. It was a lot of music, art, WJN: Was your family musical? next. But, it’s still part of the culture. And to sing and dance. Even though I never dance, and drama. Before that, the only for- the words to the songs… I come here to had extensive professional training in ei- Warshai: I have two older brothers and they the JCC on Thursday nights for Israeli ther I guess it just came out of me anyway, mal training I’d had in music was in public got music lessons when we were kids, they school. Eighth grade guitar was about it. I’ve dancing and when we’re learning a dance from the Israeli dance troop I was with as got piano lessons. But when we moved we I’m busy listening to the words and go- a teen to the music I get to do at HDS. also taught Hebrew in other venues. I taught didn’t take the piano and I never got the at Beth Israel Congregation and Adult He- ing, “Wow, that’s a great song. I should I used to feel very self-conscious that I piano lessons, although I’m the one that teach that to the kids.” There’s great mu- didn’t have that formal training. A couple brew at Temple Beth Emeth, and I was head wanted them. (Laughter) In fifth grade I teacher at the Beit Sefer (Sunday school) of sic coming in from Israel. I love the old of years ago I finally realized that I guess did some flute, but I was terrible at prac- traditional stuff because that’s what’s in I’m self-taught. As I’ve gotten more into the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah ticing, so I dropped that. But on my own for eight years. All of that has grown out of my blood, but there’s some really good music through the years of teaching, I’ve I played chalil and I would sound out new stuff too. realized that music is so broad, there are this love of the language I developed when songs, or play piano when it was around, I lived in Israel. My dad’s singing Hebrew songs to us, so many aspects to it, whether it’s play- pick out melodies. The music in our fam- that informal aspect to it, the folk aspect ing instruments, conducting, singing… WJN: Did you speak Hebrew before you ily that really stuck with me was my dad of music is the part that I’ve always been so I have my niche. I’ve gotten to a point lived on the kibbutz? singing to us when we would go on long most attracted to, or familiar with. Now, where I can feel comfortable saying, “Yes, car rides out west, exploring the states. I teaching here, I’m getting more exposed I am a musician.” n Warshai: The Hebrew I knew was mostly remember very vividly riding in the car through songs; at Habonim Camp Tavor to things like the Ann Arbor Symphony and dad teaching us songs and us singing Orchestra with Arie Lipsky having a they integrate Hebrew. Most of the nouns songs in the back seat. I loved it. you say in Hebrew. You don’t make whole school program, and I’m fascinated by

Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 23 p 734.712.0050 f 734.712.0055 www.APMandR.com

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24 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 ICalendar

Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Reading Kids’ Night Out: JCC Youth. Featuring the en- the Bible may be easy, but understanding it is no sim- tertaining movie Flubber, dinner, and lots of May 2010 ple matter. Study the text in the original, together with fun arts and crafts including making a slimy the classical commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. flubbery concoction. For kids in grades K-5. Saturday 1 $20 for JCC members; $18/additional siblings. $25 for non-members. 6:30–10 p.m. Shabbat Morning 6th Grade Program: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Wednesday 5 Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Chabad. Women’s League Shabbat: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Learn more about the mystical dimensions of the The Bible in Its Time: JCC Seniors. With Dr. Liz Torah. 1 hour before sundown Every Saturday. Mitzvah Day, Service and Lunch: TBE. 9 a.m. at Fried. Free for those over 65 through Washtenaw Perry School Neighborhood. Shabbat Service and Community College. Register at 971-0990 or at Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Lunch at Perry School at Noon. first class. Through June 16. group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Chabad. Lunch and Learn: BIC. “Memories of a Dark Week- Learn more about the mystical dimensions of the end in November, 1963–Part II” Facilitated by Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Torah. 1 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Rabbi Dobrusin. Noon. Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Annual Meeting: Jewish Historical Society of Sunday 9 group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jewish Michigan. Featuring speaker Stephen Goldman, Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Executive Director of the Holocaust Memo- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Wom- Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. rial Center, plus presentation of 2010 Leonard en: Chabad. An in-depth study into the prayer book, N. Simons Award to James D. Grey. Reception plus an overview of the weekly Torah reading, with Sunday 2 following. Holocaust Memorial Center, 28123 Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills. For Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the information, phone 248-432-5517. 7 p.m. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Wom- basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the Board Meeting: TBE. 7:30 p.m. en: Chabad. An in-depth study into the prayer book, beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. an overview of the weekly Torah reading, with Jew- Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn the ish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Thursday 6 deeper meanings of the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Bar/Bat Mitzvah Family Series: BIC. “Keeping Up Every Sunday. with the Steins.” 9:30 a.m. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Ma- Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the ria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Current Events Tuesday 11 basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the with Heather Dombey, a Jewish perspective on this beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn the Lunch, noon; Weekly special events and guest pre- Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- deeper meanings of the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. sentations (see description below); Literary Group sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Every Sunday. with Sidney Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Games and activities including Mahjong, quilting, Poliner at 971-0990 for name of current book. art projects and card games. Wii sports including Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philosophy bowling, tennis and baseball. No sports or com- Monday 3 –for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. puter experience required. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Presentation and Birthday Celebration: JCC Seniors. “Beyond Never Again: How the Holocaust Speaks English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Birthday celebration for all with May birthdays, to Us Today:” Jewish Learning Institute. Spring Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– featuring lunch and birthday cake for family and semester course. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at friends at 12:30 p.m. Followed at 1 p.m. by Eastern and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Michigan University Professor Henry Aldridge dis- Movie Tuesday: TBE. Film selection is Bee Season, For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 or cussing the Jewish Film Festival film Hello Goodbye. email [email protected]. Ongoing. starring Richard Gere and Juliette Binoche. 1 p.m. Photo Exhibit Opening Reception: JCC. Opening Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All ages Women’s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor Annie reception for exhibit featuring works of Nancy Rose, Parashat Behar-Bechukotai. 7 p.m. and levels welcome including UM and non-UM Margolis with photographs of synagogues around participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Café, ground the world. Reception features guest speaker Zvi floor of UM Michigan League. For information, Gitelman. 5–7 p.m. Photography exhibit runs call 936-2367. Tuesday 4 through June 15 during regular business hours. For information, contact Mimi Weisberg at 971-0990 Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Discussion of Be-Midbar Music Appreciation Class: JCC Seniors. Music Ap- or email [email protected]. (Numbers 1:1-4:20), led by Roger Stutesman. 7:30 p.m. preciation with Laura Dunbar, Education and Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Sharpen Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Community Outreach Coordinator of the Ann Reading the Bible may be easy, but understand- Arbor Symphony Orchestra. Free for those over 65 your wits and knowledge of the Jewish legal system by following the intriguing discussions in the ing it is no simple matter. Study the text in the through Washtenaw Community College. Register original, together with the classical commentaries. at 971-0990 or at first class. Through June 8. Talmud. The Talmud is a composite of practical law, logical argumentation and moral teachings. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Study of the original Talmud tractate Taanit chapter Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Wednesday 12 Games and activities including mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games. Wii sports including Friday 7 Fun With Yiddish: JCC Seniors. Music, humor and bowling, tennis and baseball. No sports or com- stories facilitated by Sara Mendel. 2–4 p.m. puter experience required. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Meets Lunch and Learn: BIC. “A Painted Ox and a Bag of “Beyond Never Again: How the Holocaust Speaks at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 for Raisins.” Facilitated by Rabbi Dobrusin. Noon. to Us Today:” Jewish Learning Institute. Spring information. Caregiver Conversations: JFS. A monthly drop-in ed- semester course. Facilitated discussions enabling Tot Shabbat, Dinner and Services: TBE. Tot Shabbat ucational and support group for adult children in participants to articulate personal responses to at 5:30 p.m. Dinner at 6 p.m. followed by songs and a variety of caregiving roles for aging parents. This the Holocaust, while providing relevant angles on popsicle oneg in the Social Hall. month’s conversation is “The Driving Dilemma: Is some of life’s most difficult questions pertaining to Service Brotherhood Shabbat: TBE. 7:30 p.m. Your Loved One Safe on the Road?” 6:30–8:30 p.m. faith and suffering. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House RSVP to Abbie Lawrence-Jacobson at abbie@jfsan- and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. narbor.org or by phone at 769-0209. Wii Fun: JCC Seniors. Intro to Wii sports. No experience or physical expertise necessary. 1 p.m. For Saturday 8 information, call Merrill at 971-0990. Thursday 13 Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with ages and levels welcome including UM and non- followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Current UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Café, Sanctuary Service at 10 a.m. Events with Heather Dombey, a Jewish perspec- ground floor of UM Michigan League. For infor- st Kehillat Shabbat: BIC. “Family Shabbat” for 1 tive on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Homemade mation, call 936-2367. th through 5 graders. 11 a.m. Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Special events and Babysitting Class: JCC Youth. American Red Cross Tot Shabbat: BIC. Tot Shabbat. For preschoolers and guest presentations, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Babysitting Class for students ages 11-17. Covers their families. 11:15 a.m. Sidney Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Po- child safety, first aid, baby care, and developmental- Middle School Game Night: JCC Youth. The JCC liner at 971-0990 for name of current book. ly appropriate play. Registration and payment are will be transformed into a fun-filled arcade with Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philoso- due by April 23, but late registrations accepted as games such as Dance Dance Revolution, Guitar phy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. space permits. 4–7 p.m. For information, contact Hero, Mario DDR, Wii Sports and more. Pizza Deborah Huerta at 971-0990 or email deborah- Health Check and Discussion: JCC Seniors. At dinner provided and a movie will be shown at 8 [email protected]. Also May 6. 12:30 p.m. a registered nurse from Care Response p.m. For information, contact Deborah Huerta at will take and record blood pressures and address Spirituality Book Club: TBE. Cantor Annie Rose 971-0990 or email [email protected]. $20 questions. (This event is repeated the second leads discussion. 7:30 p.m. for JCC members; $18/additional siblings. $25 for Thursday of each month.) At 1 p.m., join a read- non-members. 6:30–10 p.m. Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 25 I Calendar

ing of the book Grandmothers for Peace and create sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Meet Camp Raanana Staff: JCC Youth. Campers meet letters of peace for future generations. Games and activities including mahjong, quilting, their counselors and fellow campers. Camp Direc- Saturday 29 Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. art projects and card games. Wii sports including tor Deborah Huerta and Assistant Camp Director Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish bowling, tennis and baseball. No sports or com- Shoshana Jackson will be on hand to answer ques- Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., fol- legal system by following the intriguing discus- puter experience required. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. tions and to accept registration forms before June 1 lowed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All ages deadline. 3–5 p.m. at Colonial Lanes, 1950 S. Indus- Service at 10 a.m. of practical law, logical argumentation and moral and levels welcome including UM and non-UM trial Hwy. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Chabad. teachings. Study of the original Talmud tractate participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Café, ground Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learning the Learn more about the mystical dimensions of the Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. floor of UM Michigan League. For information, deeper meanings to the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Torah. 1 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. call 936-2367. Every Sunday. Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Friday 14 “Beyond Never Again: How the Holocaust Speaks group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jewish to Us Today:” Jewish Learning Institute. Spring Monday 24 Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. semester course. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House Shabbat services: See listing at the end of the calendar. Bus Tour: Jewish Historical Society of Michigan. and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Tour Eastern Market with a Jewish Twist. History, English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. shopping, browsing and more. Bus departs at 9:15 Shavuot Services: BIC. Tikkun Leil Shavuot Study Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– Sunday 30 a.m. from Congregation Shaarey Zedek in South- Program at 8 p.m. Maariv Service at 9 p.m. Tikkun Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at Leil Shavuot Breakout sessions at 10 p.m. field and returns at approximately 2:30 p.m. $25/ Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Wom- Shavuot Services: Chabad. Services followed by fes- JHSM members; $30/non-members. For reserva- For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 or en: Chabad. An in-depth study into the prayer book, tive meal and all night learning. 8:45 p.m. tions and information, phone 248-432-5517. email [email protected]. Ongoing. an overview of the weekly Torah reading, with Jew- Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Meets Shavuot Services: TBE. Tikkun Leil Shavuot Program ish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. . Rabbi Levy and Rabbi Delson lead a Shavuot dis- at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 for Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the cussion about God. 9 p.m. Tuesday 25 information. basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 p.m. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. followed by songs and popsicle oneg at 6 p.m. Wednesday 19 Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn the Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; deeper meanings of the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Shavuot Services: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Games and activities including mahjong, quilting, Every Sunday. Saturday 15 Shavuot Services and Lunch: TBE. Shavuot Yizkor art projects and card games. Wii sports including Service and lunch. 11 a.m. bowling, tennis and baseball. No sports or computer experience required. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Monday 31 Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., Picnic Dinner: BIC. Delicious dairy delicacies at 6 p.m “Beyond Never Again: How the Holocaust Speaks followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. and Shavuot Services: BIC. Mincha Service at 7:30 p.m. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Sanctuary Service at 10 a.m. to Us Today:” Jewish Learning Institute. Spring Shavuot Services: Chabad. Services followed by read- semester course. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– T-Shirt Shabbat and Camp Send-Off: BIC. 9:30 a.m. ing of the Ten Commandments and an ice cream and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at party for children, plus annual festive dairy meal Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Chabad. Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All ages Learn more about the mystical dimensions of the for all ages. 7 p.m. For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 or and levels welcome including UM and non-UM email [email protected]. Ongoing. Torah. 1 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Meditation: TBE. 7:30 p.m. participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Café, ground Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study floor of UM Michigan League. For information, call group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jewish Thursday 20 936-2367. Weekly Friday night Shabbat services Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Discussion of Be- Shabbat services: See listing at the end of the calendar. Ha’alotekha (Numbers 8:1-1`2:16), led by Roger Shabbat Service: AAOM. Services held at UM Hillel. Shavuot Services: BIC. Morning services including Call 994-9258 in advance to confirm time. Yizkor at 9:30 a.m. Mincha Service at 7:30 p.m. Stutesman. 7:30 p.m. Shabbat Service: BIC. 6 p.m. Shavuot Services: Chabad. Morning services at 9:45 Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Read- Sunday 16 Shabbat Service: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 p.m. followed a.m.; Yizkor Memorial services at 11 a.m.; after- ing the Bible may be easy, but understanding it is no simple matter. Study the original text, together with by Shira at 6 p.m. Traditional Service at 7:30 p.m. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Wom- noon and evening services at 8:45 p.m. classical commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. For information, call 665-4744. en: Chabad. An in-depth study into the prayer JCC Closed for Shavuot book, an overview of the weekly Torah reading, Shabbat Service: Ann Arbor Reconstructionist with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Havurah. 6:15 PM at the JCC the last Friday each Friday 21 Wednesday 26 month. Musical Shabbat service followed by veg- Mussar Study Group: BIC. 9:45 a.m. etarian potluck. Tot Shabbat with optional kid’s Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Meets Afternoon Delight Concert: JCC Seniors. Featuring pizza dinner at 6:00 PM. All are welcome to attend. basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 for Ann Arbor Symphony woodwind quintet. Re- For information, call 913-9705, email info@aare- beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. information. freshments served. $8/person. 1–2:30 p.m. con.org or visit www.aarecon.org. Celebration of Community Service and JFS Volun- Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 Busy Women’s Dinner: TBE Sisterhood. 6 p.m. Shabbat Service: Chabad. Begins at candle-lighting teers: JFS. Gideon Aronoff, President and CEO of p.m. followed by songs and popsicles at 6 p.m. time. Home hospitality available for Shabbat meals HIAS, the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, will be and Jewish holidays. Call 995-3276 in advance. the featured speaker at brunch at the JCC. HIAS is Confirmation Service: TBE. With Kol Halev. 7:30 p.m. Thursday 27 the international migration agency of the Ameri- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. can Jewish Community, providing rescue and Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philoso- Weekly Shabbat services refuge. Free for JFS volunteers, including partners Saturday 22 phy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. and/or children over the age of 13; $18 for others. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Shabbat Services: AAOM. Morning service, 9:30 a.m. RSVP by May 10 to Deborah Renner at deborah@ Evening service, 35 minutes before sunset. Call Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., fol- Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Current jfsannarbor.org or phone 769-0209. Events with Heather Dombey, a Jewish perspective 662-5805 for information. Mincha/Ma’ariv with Hike: Jewish Hikers of Michigan. Hike at County lowed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary Seudah Shlisheet and Dvar Torah every week. To- Service at 10 a.m. on the week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Dairy Buffet Lunch, Farm Park, 2230 Platt Road. For information, con- noon; Weekly special events; Literary Group with rah topics and a bite to eat. Discussions led by Rab- th tact Eli at [email protected] or phone 883- Shabbat Morning 6 Grade Program: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Sidney Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Po- bi Rod Glogower and other local scholars. Home 9522 or 665-4744. 1 p.m. Tot Shabbat: BIC. For preschoolers and their families. liner at 971-0990 for name of current book. hospitality available for Shabbat meals. UM Hillel. Kol Halev Joint Concert: TBE. Featuring Kol Halev 11:15 a.m. Afternoon Presentation: JCC Seniors. The Happi- Shabbat Services: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Morning childcare and St. Clare’s Episcopal Church Choir. 7 p.m. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Chabad. ness Boys perform songs, present humor and mu- from 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learning the Learn more about the mystical dimensions of the sical trivia. 1 p.m. Shabbat Services: AA Reconstructionist Havurah. deeper meanings to the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Discussion-based format with topics changing Every Sunday. Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish monthly. For info, email [email protected] or call group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jewish legal system by following the intriguing discus- 913-9705 or visit www.aarecon.org. Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite Shabbat Services: Chabad. Morning services at 9:45 a.m. Monday 17 Shabbat services: See listing at the end of the calendar. of practical law, logical argumentation and moral Afternoon services 45 minutes before sundown. teachings. Study of the original Talmud tractate Shabbat Services: Pardes Hannah. Generally meets English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month. Call 663- Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– Sunday 23 4039 for more information. 10 a.m. Led by Rabbi Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at Elliot Ginsburg. Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Friday 28 For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 or Shabbat Services: TBE. Torah Study at 8:50 a.m. Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Chapel Service at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary Service at 10 email [email protected]. Ongoing. Meditation: TBE. 1 p.m. prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah read- a.m. Call the office at 665-4744 or consult website Women’s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor Rose. ing, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Chabad Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Meets at www.templebethemeth.org for service details. Parashat Naso. 7 p.m. House. Every Sunday. at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 for Home Hospitality for Shabbat and Holiday Meals: information. Library Book Club: BIC. 10 a.m. AAOM. Call 662-5805 in advance. Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 Tuesday 18 Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the Home Hospitality and Meals: Chabad. Every Shab- p.m., followed by dinner, songs and popsicle oneg basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the bat and Holiday. Call 995-3276 in advance. at 6 p.m. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Chabad House. Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m.; $4/session or $10/3 ses- Every Sunday. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar.

26 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 I Vitals

Mazel tov Seth Kronick on his bar mitzvah, May 8. Max Saalberg on his bar mitzvah, May 8. Gabriel Warschausky on his bar mitzvah, May 8. Eli Tell on his bar mitzvah, May 15. Joseph Estes on his bar mitzvah, May 15. Alexander Porte on his bar mitzvah, May 22. Jake Cohen on his bar mitzvah, May 22. Naomi Perlman on her bat mitzvah, May 22. Alexandra Forman on her bat mitzvah, May 29. Marjorie and Barry Checkoway on the birth of their grandson, Isaac Leon Moretta, son of Amy Checkoway and David Moretta and brother of Eli.

Condolences Rachel Schreiber on the death of her mother, Sarah Schreiber. Irv Leon on the death of his father, Alexander Leon. Jodi Reel on the death of her step-father, Herbert Applebaum, March 7. Adam Mitchel on the death of his step-mother, Michele Beth Mitchel, March 12. Shoshana Mandel Warner on the death of her father, Sam Freedland, March 13. Arnie Spellman on the death of his uncle, Robert Hasterlik, March 13. Steven Calef on the death of his aunt, Mildred Calef, March 17. Marc Kessler on the death of his uncle, Joseph “Barney” Roberts, on March 22. Lisa Ensfield on the death of her uncle and Grace Borowitz on the death of her brother, Leonard Burchman, March 28.

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Phone numbers and addresses of organizations

Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan (AAOM) Jewish Cultural Society (JCS) 1429 Hill Street 994-5822 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 975-9872 Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah (AARH) Jewish Family Services (JFS) P.O. Box 7451, Ann Arbor 913-9705 2245 South State Street 769-0209 Beth Israel Congregation (BIC) Jewish Federation 2000 Washtenaw Ave. 665-9897 2939 Birch Hollow Drive 677-0100 Chabad House Pardes Hannah 715 Hill Street 995-3276 2010 Washtenaw Ave. 761-5324 EMU Hillel Temple Beth Emeth (TBE) 965 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti 482-0456 2309 Packard Road 665-4744 Jewish Community Center (JCC) UM Hillel 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 971-0990 1429 Hill Street 769-0500

Shabbat Candlelighting May 7 7:18 p.m. May 14 7:26 p.m. May 21 7:33 p.m. May 28 7:39 p.m.

Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010 27 28 Washtenaw Jewish News A May 2010