Can They Change?

See Pages 3, 4, 5

$1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM VOL. 10 NO. 15 22 TEVES 5770 ,una ,arp JANUARY 8, 2010 INSIDE FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK POWER TO THE PEOPLE Faux Frumkeit BY LARRY GORDON Stacey Solomon 22 What Does Jimmy Want? SECURITY THREAT Hannah Reich Berman 29 “When it comes to airline the world. Defining Death Down security,” says Yehuda Dafna, Our talk with Yehuda Dafna Rabbi Avi Shafran 30 “America is backwards.” Dafna, a about security at airports and on MindBiz resident of Woodsburgh and a airlines was of course precipitat- Esther Mann, LMSW 31 member of several Five Towns ed by the events of December shuls, is the president and 25, when a lone terrorist, pur- Yitzhak Ahronovitch, a’h founder of ISS Action, Inc., and portedly a functionary of Al Rabbi Yair Hoffman 75 speaks from two decades of Qaeda, attempted to set off extensive experience with air- explosive materials on an airlin- line security. er approaching Detroit’s interna- The ISS offices are located at tional airport. The terrorist JFK Airport, and the company passed through screeners at air- Howard Kopel, the first Orthodox Jew elected to the Nassau County Legislature since its inception in 1996, being sworn in on Monday at the employs more than 150 people ports in both Nigeria and Cradle of Aviation Museum by U.S. Congressman Peter King as Mr. Kopel and provides security consult- began his term as a member of the new Republican majority. ants to scores of airlines around Continued on Page 15 See Page 61

HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE

Shidduchim:Letters Not So Fast to thewith length Editor of courtship, logic Dear Editor, would have us insist that a cou- Where The Time Goes Welcome to the shidduch ple really get to know each other Bat Mitzvah of Ayala scene. (“Matchmaker, Match- well before committing. We can B Y LARRY GORDON I know this to be true Schwartz. See Page 72 maker,” Heard in the Bagel Store, all cite examples from the secu- because that’s the way it was in January 1). I hope your son finds lar world where couples live I was just a boy not so long 1970, 1980, and 1990. And, of his bashert quickly. And, on the together, marry, then divorce. ago, and then this Waterford course, as Y2K approached, who subject of speed, I’d like to dis- Yes, getting to know someone crystal ball dropped in Times would have thought we would cuss your notion that “the entire very well does not preclude Square the other night and it was ever get used to the idea of a courtship itself usually takes divorce. But logically, if a couple 2010. It’s always mildly challeng- new millennium on top of the about three to four weeks.” The who know each other well for a ing to adjust to the change in the adjustment required in dealing obvious response is, have you long time can end up divorcing, number assigned to identifying with a new decade? heard about the high rate of does it mean that we should the year. However, if I write When the decade changes it divorce in frum circles? While throw caution to the wind and enough checks over the next provides an additional jolt to there has been no study correlat- week or two I will rapidly grow ing this increased divorce rate Continued on Page 6 accustomed to the new decade. Continued on Page 12

SKA Gift of Shabbos. MBD Music Therapy IAF Targets See Page 57 CAN THEY Terror Tunnels CHANGE?

B Y SAMUEL SOKOL A Different View On The ISRAEL CORRESPONDENT Recent YU Debate BY DR. NORMAN In a joint operation with the GOLDWASSER GSS (Shabak) last Friday night, the Israeli Air Force successfully While reading the various targeted two terror tunnels lead- accounts and debates over the ing from the northern and recent Yeshiva University panel southern Gaza Strip towards about those of a definitively Mordechai Ben David (center) and members of the Mikimi Cheer-up Giving life and hope: Squad paid an unexpected visit to the Woodmere Rehabilitation and Israel The tunnels originated non-Torah orientation, I realized recipient meets donor. Health Care Center and lifted the spirits of the residents with their lively See Page 48 singing and dancing. See Page 59 Continued on Page 5 Continued on Page 13

CANDLE LIGHTING Jan. 8 – 4:27 PM Jan. 15 – 4:34 PM 2 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 3 FEATURES

Around The Five Towns 44 P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 516-984-0079 [email protected] Classified Ads 68 [email protected] LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON The Dish Publisher/Editor Managing Editor Elke Probkevitz 32 YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON Sales Managers Five Towns Simcha CHANA ROCHEL ROSS Naomi Cohen/Glamorous Pics 70 Editorial Assistant SIDI BARON Health Section 46-48 YAKOV SERLE Sales Representatives Insights On The Torah SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC R’ Yanki Tauber 24 Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor R’ Ben Tzion Shafier 35 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS R’ Mordechai Kamenetzky 41 Hannah Reich Berman, Anessa V. Cohen, Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg, Toby Klein Greenwald, Rabbi Yair Hoffman, Miriam Horowitz, Luach 8 Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, Shmuel Katz, Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann, Rochelle Miller, MindBiz Martin Mushell, Elke Probkevitz, Naomi Ross, Rachael Schindler, Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, Esther Mann, LMSW 31 Rabbi Avi Shafran, Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher, Samuel Sokol Mother’s Musings DOV GORDON, ELISHEVA ELEFANT Phyllis J. Lubin 19 Staff Graphic Artists IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS Puzzle Staff Photographers Yoni Glatt 74 FRANKEL & CO. Design & Production Real Estate TALIYE CORLEY Anessa V. Cohen 40 Art Director SARAH GREENBAUM That’s The Way It Is! Assistant Art Director Hannah Reich Berman 29 The Five Towns Jewish Times is an independent weekly newspaper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not Travel Section responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or 36-44, 49-51 establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times.

4 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Terror Tunnels ridor between the Sinai Peninsula and Continued from Front Cover Gaza. Despite numerous sorties flown by the IAF against the tunnel system, many from a distance of approximately one Israelis consider it impossible to halt the kilometer from the Gaza security fence use of the tunnels without a boots-on- and were intended for infiltrating into the-ground operation. During Cast Lead, Israel and executing a terror attack against the upper echelons of the defense estab- Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers. lishment decided against a move on the According to the Israeli military, the Egyptian-Gaza border. attacks were in response to the firing of a According to a report in Al-Ahram, the rocket at the city of Netivot last Thursday official Egyptian state newspaper, there evening. are currently around 1,200 such tunnels. Also, in a joint IDF-GSS operation this Tuesday, the IAF attacked a group of terror operatives planning to fire rockets from the southern Gaza strip into Israel. The IDF statement did Accurate hits were identified. Since the end of Operation Cast Lead— not explain why the an IDF incursion into the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip in January of last year in retalia- attack on the tunnel tion for several years of rocket attacks on Israeli civilians in the Negev Desert—more was undertaken only than 280 rockets and mortars have been fired at Israel. Throughout 2008, prior to in response to a Cast Lead, over 3,300 rockets and mortars were fired at Israel from the Gaza Strip. rocket attack. In a statement released to the foreign press, the IDF declared that Israel’s defense establishment “will not tolerate the firing of rockets by terrorist organizations at Some 70,000 residents of Gaza are report- Israel and will continue to respond against ed to be involved in digging the tunnels, any attempt to disrupt the calm in Israel’s which can cost up to $50,000 to excavate, southern communities.” but which can bring in profits of up to The IDF statement did not explain $184,000 in goods on a daily basis. why the attack on the tunnel was under- Hamas is an offshoot of the Muslim taken only in response to a rocket attack, Brotherhood, a radical Islamist organiza- if the intended purpose of the under- tion active in Egypt. Hamas operatives ground passage was to facilitate terrorist involved in tunneling operations have activity against Israeli civilians. opened fire on Egyptian soldiers, and There are several hundred smuggling tunnels running under the Philadelpi cor- Continued on Page 18

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 5 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Front Cover

say conversely that a short courtship will end up in a happy marriage? I think not! There are many problems that have arisen in the last decade or two regarding shidduchim. Some we can control, some we have to wait for the rabbanim to address. But there are some things that we as parents can insist on. One is the duration of dating. Why is it that most singles spend less time getting to know each other than they do buying a new house? The fact is that singles today are expected to commit at a blink of an eye, regardless whether they are 20 or 35. If the parents hear that a couple has been dating for two weeks, they book wedding halls! I wonder if we would be that cava- lier with purchasing stocks or other investments. These unwritten rules must change lest we have even more divorces. On another note, as a member of several shidduch networks, I have been fortunate to meet countless singles of various ages and hashkafos. I would like to address the common concern that is being voiced in every shidduch group and at every Shabbos table among those that have children “in the parashah.” That is, the caliber of the girls and women of today is far superior to that of their male counterparts. The women are goal-orient- ed, focused, put-together, articulate, and polished—while their male counterparts are lost souls. Many have no direction. Many have no drive. They are sitting and learning in beis midrash, biding their time. They are waiting for a good shidduch—that is, a woman who will work and be willing and able to support their hasmadah. These women will work full- time, raise children, shop, cook, and clean, while their spouses warm the seats of their kollel. Even in circles where boys do not intend to learn full-time forever, if at all, our boys are not as polished, motivated, and capable as their female counterparts. In Sefer Bereishis, we are told that Adam and Chava will be punished for their sin: Chava will bear children with suffering and Adam will eat bread by the sweat of his brow. Who changed that along the way and cursed Chava with both punishments? It used to be that the superstars of a shiur would go for semi- chah and they would continue learning. Now, every Chaim, Yankel, and Shloime are superstars and learn indefinitely, with no parnasah concerns at all. This is another situation that is in our hands that can change. We as a community must do some introspection and see if this is how a couple should be living today. Is this what the Bais Yaakov/Sarah Schenirer movement had in mind when they wanted to educate the girls for the future? Was this the intention of teaching text instead of Tzena U’rena? The current solution that is being offered by the learners is that they will work when the need arises. But what will they do then? And how much can they earn? Anyone hear of the tuition crisis? It’s unrealistic for us to keep silent any longer. This lack of self-drive starts in the school system, where the girls are expected to do the work while the boys are not expected to perform. Why? Because boys will be boys and they need to play ball

Continued on Page 8 6 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 7 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 6 and have downtime? We have such low expectations of our sons that when they reach the shidduch scene, their female counterparts are disappointed in the choices. This part of the shidduch crisis is only now being brought to the forefront. We were afraid to say anything and to state the obvious, but let’s not sweep it under the rug any more. Let’s discuss this as a community and see if we can slow our singles down and insist they date longer than three or four weeks. And let’s make sure that our fabulous girls really do get their fair share: fabulous boys. Name Withheld

Keeping It Real Dear Editor, I just want to say, having read your article on shidduchim, that I have never read such an amazing, incredible article before. And believe me, I have read many, CALENDAR LUACH Jan. 8 – Jan. 16 ZIP Code: 11516

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8 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

many articles on this sad, ongoing, never- ending topic. For the first time ever, an author is so open, so truthful, so honest and real about the current situation that I found my eyes tearing as I read the words used, describing exactly, almost word for word, what we as a family and I as a mother of a 27-year-old “older single girl” go through every moment of my life, every breathing second of every day. And believe me, sometimes it even hurts to do just that— i.e., breathe. It was so refreshing to see that there is someone out there who compre- hends and grasps the reality of our situation for what it is: an absolute tragedy. And I know I speak for many others who are in the same boat as we are; there aren’t even any tears left to shed. Like you so wisely write, even the seemingly small matter of a bachur just trying once (obviously, if the rest of the criteria are met) to meet a girl who may be a year or two older than himself would make such a difference in the lives of so many girls (and boys). I have no answers. Like everyone else, we just talk and talk about it, and that’s all we ever have on our minds. But if more people saw things the way you do, I just know it would have such a major impact on the “shidduch crisis.” And if more people would sit up and realize how logical your words are, things could be so different . . . but what’s the point of dreaming or hoping? I know from experience that nothing will ever change, so all I can say at this point is, thank you for your words. They warmed my heart, if nothing else; and if even one other person changes his or her outlook as a result, and if even one shidduch is made as a result, it will have been worth it. D. Rubinoff Brooklyn

Shidduch Committees Needed Dear Editor, I read your article on shidduchim and I quite agree with you that somehow it is becoming difficult for the boys and girls to meet each other. I know the Lubavitcher Rebbe was very much in favor of using shadchanim; nevertheless, I do agree that not all boys and girls are meant to meet that way. In fact, several of my married children met without an official shadchan—at a Shabbos table, through friends, etc. I know that in the past there were never so many older boys and girls waiting for shidduchim. I do not really know what the reason is, other than hashgachah p’ratis, of course. But I believe that there is a problem with the boys and girls somehow getting to know about each other. And I do not think the solution is to hope the shadchanim will take more action, because realistically it is not happening. They are busy, and usually making shidduchim is not their main occupation. We also cannot tell the boys and girls to go out in the streets and meet each other. This is not proper conduct in terms of modesty. So what is the solution? I don’t know, actually, but I think there has to be a committee set up in every city (perhaps

Continued on Page 10 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 9 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR mathematically speaking the opportu- if it exists. There actually is a Queens spirit, her middos? You’ll never find that Continued from Page 9 nities for more shidduchim to happen Shidduch Initiative that indeed offers a out if you don’t meet. Yet these chit- increases. $2,000 shadchanus incentive (see zoniyus/ externalities often stop an ini- by the parents) which is totally for mak- May we all merit to easily find shid- QueensShidduch.org). There have been 51 tial meeting. Why? Who told our young ing shidduchim. Just like there is a board duchim for our children and may Hashem successful shidduchim so far. This group people that marriage is like a smorgas- of directors for this and that (in a shul or open the doors of shidduchim for all of offers the $2,000 for anyone who makes bord or a restaurant and you get to in other organizations) or a K’lal Yisrael. a successful shidduch for a Queens choose one from column A and two parent/teacher committee, I believe Gila young woman who is 23 years of age from column B? there have to be committees set up and older. Nothing about who is older As to helping people meet, in the end, specifically for shidduchim. Boys and Shidduch Committees Exist than whom is stated anywhere. It’s we all have to do our part and try to set girls have to register with these commit- Dear Editor, based on the Baltimore Star-K program young people up even if, like most of us, tees, explain what they are looking for I have a few thoughts about your arti- with some minor variations. It’s worked we don’t know what we’re doing. Many a (whether it is in writing, or by comput- cle on shidduchim. You make a lot of for both cities. solid marriage has come from these ama- er, or in person; I imagine filling a form valid and cogent points. I just have a few In addition, I have a secret to share. teur efforts. might work) and then people on the comments. Firstly, I really wish you and There exists a separate shidduch system Samuel Kosofsky committee have to get to work trying to everyone else would stop referring to eli- for men and women. The women pres- Coordinator, match these boys and girls. There can be gible young men and women who pre- ent themselves to shadchanim and Hillcrest Shidduch Committee intercity communication (via computer) sumably are ready for marriage as “boys” shidduch groups and committees. The so in each city the committees can see and “girls”. No wonder there’s so little men don’t. People come looking for the Bush’s Weakness boys and girls available in other cities. responsibility amongst many of them. men. For every man who is presented You state that in regard to fighting ter- Obviously not all matches will happen We’ve infantilized our children. at our Hillcrest Shidduch Committee rorism, President Obama “is seemingly in in the same cities! Secondly, you say: “Why not let boy meetings, ten women are presented. I way over his head” (From the Editor’s Programs can be arranged, such as meet girl in the fashion that existed for don’t know why that is, since the same Desk: The Shalit Dilemma, January 1). Shabbatons where the boys and girls can our ancestors, going back to ancient number of baby boys and baby girls are You then go on to state that President “meet” at the Shabbos table. Some con- times?” Let’s spell that out. We should born every year (actually, a few more Bush, apparently weak-willed and easy to crete action has to be taken to get things create circumstances and places in boys are born). No one has given me a persuade, “relented to intense pressure moving. People are suffering. which they can meet and talk naturally good answer to that mystery. This from the Democratic Party and let some I myself have a few children of mar- instead of having strangers (shadchan- information can be verified by every of those enemy combatants go.” riageable age, and the shidduchim are im), who may not know either of them, shidduch committee I know, including In reality, Bush let terrorists go to pla- somehow not happening yet. I also know trying so hard and usually failing. (I the ones in the Five Towns. cate his Saudi buddies, who wanted to of many, many boys and girls who are so know—I’m one of those people who Still, both men and women often show that their “art therapy” program anxious to get married and are becoming try, usually fruitlessly, to set people up.) don’t agree to meet because the other could convert radical Muslims. That is desperate or depressed. This is looked down on today as some- person doesn’t have everything on their why we had the recent attempted air- I know that in the country where I how not halachically acceptable, but it list, or they want too much information plane bombing, executed by two terror- live they organized a few Shabbatons was fine not so long ago, and it worked up front. A little flexibility is a wonder- ists who had been released by Bush into which brought boys and girls together well not so long ago. ful thing. Whether a man is 5'9" or taller the Saudi art therapy program. in a frum environment and a few suc- Where did you get the idea that will not make a big difference in a suc- So the facts cast a different light on cessful shidduchim came out of that. I Queens has a shidduch group that is ded- cessful marriage. What if he’s not a pro- exactly which president was in “way over think it is a great way for people to icated to having men meet and marry fessional? What if he works in a busi- his head.” meet. And if there are many Shabbatons women who are at least two years older ness? Do you really need to know her Carl B. Maltzman taking place on a constant basis, just than them? Please publish the website dress size? What about her heart, her North Woodmere

10 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 11 BAGEL STORE and where we go, in our davening and even including Moshe and Aharon and his announces in unison, “Chazak. Chazak. Continued from Front Cover our study of Torah—that gives the impres- descendants. V’Nischazek!”—“Be strong. Be strong. sion that it goes round and round, as if to Most impressive is the human frailty of And may we be strengthened!” some as a reminder of the character of hammer home the point that it takes us these great men and women. Even within That’s quite an upbeat sentiment that time itself—merciless and deliberate, pre- more than one attempt to observe the their greatness portrayed in the Torah, there accompanies the Torah’s announcement cious and fickle. The psalmist, Dovid world we live in. exists a profound dichotomy in the lives of of Yosef’s death. The good news there, HaMelech, muses with some consistency Are our children’s school schedules, the third of our ancient fathers, Yaakov according to these commentaries, is about how we devote so much energy our days at work, planned vacations, and Avinu, and the one who could safely be Yosef’s decision to remain with the peo- and attention to our finances and how the advent of various holidays in the called his favorite son, Yosef HaTzadik. ple in their exile and then to leave only much better off we would be if only we same months and pretty much the same Beneath the surface and between the lines together with them, more than two cen- devoted similar attention to how we uti- kind of weather year after year indicative of last week’s Torah portion, together they turies later. lize the time we are allotted. He makes of the circular and repetitive nature of so seemed to grapple with the fate of their On the other hand, some of the same reference to the fact that our money, much that we do, or are they really all people as they would enter a more-than- commentators, along with Rashi, say that which is so valuable to us, is coddled and new experiences? two-century marathon of enslavement that Yaakov Avinu never really died. even to an extent worshipped. We all Although the years do not repeat would place the very existence of the Apparently he did pass away on a physi- know that one of the most painful themselves, the months have the same nation at risk. cal level, but something unique about clichés is to say that some item is a “waste names year after year, as do the days of Most notable as their time expires is him stayed with us and has continued to of money.” Yet there is little compunction the week. But is it really just another where each prefers to be buried. Yaakov live in us through all these thousands of about what for some even becomes a Sunday or yet another Shabbos? Or does makes certain that his trusted and pow- years. Indeed this may be communicated major life project— killing time.” each day and each Shabbos bring us erful son, Yosef, transports his body to to us through Yaakov’s most notable char- I suppose you’ve observed along with something new and creative that never the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, acteristic—emes. This word, which me that just when the hoopla surround- existed previously? where his parents and grandparents are means “truth,” is also a conjunction of ing the celebration of the new secular It brings to mind the merry-go-round interred along with Adam and Eve. Our two words: “Ei,” which in Aramaic means year had come upon us and the momen- nature of our existence: our planet is commentators say that the cave in “no,” and “meis,” “death.” In other words, tous 2010 arrived, we then also turned the rotating at a very high speed, yet we seem Hebron is at the threshold of the World Yaakov’s emes essentially means that on page on the weekly parashah to the next to be standing still. to Come, so it’s understandable why some level Yaakov did not die. book of the Torah. After many weeks of But then we turn the page on the Yaakov wanted to be buried at this his- So it’s the passage of one book of studying the lives of our patriarchs, decade, and first it is no longer the 1990s toric site. Torah to the other that communicates to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, and our and then another ten years skip by and Curiously, though, Sefer Bereishis us how time marches on. That and the matriarchs, Sarah, Rivkah, Rochel, and we sit and read these words in 2010 as concludes with the death of Yosef and fact that last week someone came up to Leah, we now are introduced to the per- precious time marches on. Then Sefer his instructions that his remains be our office to pay for some ads he ran in sonage of Moshe Rabbeinu, the greatest Bereishis concludes for now, and in our kept in Egypt until such time that the the paper. The date on the check was leader of all time. own personal ways we have to at least Galus Mitzrayim would come to an written as 1/1/09, which was about a year The previous decade has receded into temporarily and communally bid end—more than 200 years later. He ago. The client took the check back, history and it’s time to do the inevitable: farewell to the weeks and days we spent wanted to be assured that then his crossed out the “09,” and replaced it with dealing with the fleeting here and now with our ancestors, the creators and remains would be transported with all a “10.” (He of course initialed the change while also looking ahead to a hopeful builders of Am Yisrael. We watch as the of Israel into the Promised Land. as required by the banks.) It was vivid future filled with promise. lives of the Shevatim, the tribes of Israel, Chassidic thought analyzes how it is proof that a decade had ended and a new At the same time there seems to be filled with mystery and intrigue, dissolve that the Sefer ends on such a down one had begun. O something else going on. There is a repeti- into the past as we are introduced to new note—the death of Yosef—at which Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at tiveness in our schedules—in what we do and prominent players in our history, point the entire congregation [email protected].

12 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Can They Change? therapies” are effective in successfully had achieved a substantial or complete Now, over 30 years later, the same Continued from Front Cover changing orientation, and that such treat- transformation out of this lifestyle and Robert Spitzer appears to be “chozer ments should be avoided. orientation, and were living stable and beteshuvah”; he is recanting his previous that, beyond the political, social, and Seems like an open-and-shut case, fulfilling normal lives. Dr. Spitzer’s study stance on the immutability and normalcy halachic aspects of the issue, a critical right? No point in debating the issue fur- concluded that change in orientation is of this type of lifestyle and attraction, and aspect of the discussion appears to be ther—or so it seems. The problem is that indeed possible, and that psychological strongly endorses the concept that people minimized or dismissed. Amidst all of there is an entirely different perspective treatments, as well as spiritual interven- who are motivated to change their orien- the emotionally explosive revelations on the other side of the political/scientif- tions that support therapeutic change, tation can indeed transition out of it, and and painful self-disclosures regarding the ic aisle that strongly suggests that this are both safe, and effective. even more importantly, an individual lives of those students appearing in the issue is not nearly as clear and absolute as What was so ironic about these find- should have the right to choose to engage panel, the question of whether or not the pundits who oppose treatment sug- ings was that it was Dr. Spitzer who was in a therapy of their choosing that estab- their orientation can be healed, modified, lishes as a goal to modify one’s orientation. or indeed changed seemed to have been This blockbuster announcement liter- glossed over. The fact that these brave ally shook the APA, the lobby that con- young men are of such an orientation stantly clamors for their rights, and the appears to be just that—a fact—absolute, Being this way and observant is so scientific community at large. It resulted black and white, immutable as the color in much effort to discredit Dr. Spitzer, a of their eyes. Any reference to attempts fundamentally incompatible that scientist/practitioner with a previous at “changing” through treatment were record of stellar professional achieve- portrayed, at least from the accounts ment, and to disqualify his findings. That replayed over the internet, as a wasted the internal conflict and distress is “alternative” community was extremely and ultimately fruitless endeavor. threatened by the study, because it under- So, this all begs the question: can a per- mined their attempts to portray their son really alter his or her orientation? Can often overwhelming. lifestyle and attractions as biologically people really change what attracts them? fixed, and therefore not amenable to According to conventional wisdom and change. However, for the many clinicians the mainstream psychological communi- who work with these patients to help ty, the answer is an unqualified, definitive gest. The real truth is that there is a the president of the APA in 1972 when it them transition out of it and heal its no. Such an identity and orientation, plethora of solid clinical research and made the change in its Diagnostic and underpinnings, and to achieve their life’s according to the American Psychological experience that strongly supports the real Statistic Manual (DSM) which completely goals of having a fulfilling family, spiritu- Association, is a biologically determined, facts—that orientation, in many, if not removed any form of this orientation, al, and social life, the results of the study genetically fixed reality that cannot be most cases, is modifiable, and indeed including what was described as of the only confirmed what they already influenced by psychological treatment, changeable, given the right motivation, “ego-dystonic“ variety (unwanted or knew—that change is, indeed, possible! and moreover, any attempts by mental treatment plan, and therapeutic tech- incongruent with what the individual These clinicians are part of an organi- health professionals to assist patients in nologies that are currently available. truly desires) from the manual, or for that zation called NARTH, the National modifying their orientation is unethical, To be specific, in 2007, Dr. Robert matter, from any discussion involving Association for Research and Treatment period. This position was reiterated at the Spitzer, a prominent psychiatrist and for- psychopathology. In effect, the APA, etc. (www.narth.org), a world-wide net- most recent APA convention this past mer president of the American under the direct prodding of Dr. Spitzer, work of clinicians, researchers, and acad- August, during which a statement was Psychiatric Association (APA), published a “paskened” that it is a natural variant of emicians who are involved in research released that there is no evidence that landmark study of 450 former homosexu- an attraction expression, and is complete- substantiates the claim that “reparative als who, according to their self-report, ly normal and non-pathological. Continued on Page 14

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 13 Can They Change? Women involved in this often have eled to Miami to experience the often would accept a conclusion that a treat- Continued from Page 13 mothers who are disturbed, abusive, or dramatic therapeutic effects of our comment for a disease cannot be successful distant, which interferes with their abili- prehensive treatment program, utilizing just because one doctor failed to produce and treatment of unwanted attractions ty to bond with a significant female fig- an interdisciplinary team of clinicians, positive results. I have personally seen (SSA). This past November in West Palm ure, causing them to yearn for a connec- which attempts to identify and heal the successful outcomes in patients who Beach, Florida, I was privileged to be one tion with women later in their lives. They underlying personality dynamics and have gone to one, two, and even three of the keynote speakers at NARTH’s annu- also often over-identify with their fathers other psychological disorders which con- previous therapists, whose treatment al conference, and I had the opportunity as a result, and the masculinity they rep- tribute to their attractions. approaches may not have been the right to share my clinical experience in utiliz- resent. Although the dynamics of these Another therapeutic and political one for them, just as former patients of ing a comprehensive multi-model, holis- families are not a hard-and-fast rule, I’m resource is JONAH (www.jonahweb.org), mine may find success with other thera- tic approach to the treatment of SSA. I astounded by the frequency with which I an organization which specifically pro- pists after working with me. was struck by the dedication and com- see them occur in the families of the vides support and treatment for Jewish So, what’s the bottom line here? The mitment of the individuals in attendance, patients with whom I work. men and women who are conflicted by Torah states “rapoh yerapeh,” “you shall and how they were using their own There is much objective research that their orientation. For Jews, especially truly heal thyself,” which suggests that, unique treatment strategies to successful- also strongly suggests that these men those who identify with a religious especially for something so vital and fun- ly treat SSA in the patients. One by one, and women are much more likely to lifestyle, being this way and observant is damental as this in terms of one’s future clinicians from literally around the world have been abused sexually, physically, or so fundamentally incompatible that the as a member of Klal Yisroel, one simply were validating the reality that, with the emotionally, than their heterosexual internal conflict and distress is often cannot conclude, “I tried and it didn’t right motivation and treatment counterparts. Emotional and physical overwhelming. Knowing that resources work,” or worse yet, “I am who I am.” We approach, people can really change. abuse by parents or childhood peers, and such as JONAH and proven psychological believe that Hashem does not send us a What are the dynamics and elements sexual abuse by adults or same-age peers treatments are available can be a huge machalah that we cannot overcome. that need to be considered in determining are quite common in this population. relief for people who are struggling. Nisyonos, challenges that we face in our how this change is possible? Although the These traumatic experiences seem to So, unfortunately for the YU panelists lives, are there to push us beyond our per- dynamics of SSA are extraordinarily com- derail normal psychosexual develop- who have concluded that their orienta- sonal capacity, to drive us to a higher plex, it seems that the development can be ment, and greatly contribute to the tion “is what it is,” and that there is no level of growth and development, and to distilled down to a few general factors: development of SSA. way to change it, they may not have ultimately help us to achieve the goal of family dynamics, trauma, personality fac- I have been fortunate to be one of the benefited from an effective therapeutic being the best that we can be. Individuals tors, and self-esteem. handful of clinicians worldwide who paradigm, or they may have possibly who struggle with this orientation can To be specific, the men in question, in have been able to pair a dramatic break- gone into treatment with a negative and do heal and transform themselves, particular, often come from families in through treatment for trauma, EMDR assumption that they cannot change, and no longer have to accept the over- which the mother is the more dominant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and thereby sabotaging the therapeutic played notion that “it is what it is.” Good overbearing parent and the father is more Reprocessing (see www.emdr.com), which process. They consequently conclude help is available and should be utilized passive, or absent. The developing child utilizes Rapid Eye Movement to desensi- that they (and we, as well) must categor- with patience and persistence. The becomes overly attached to the mother, tize past traumas and to help reprocess ically accept their status, and by infer- results, in terms of growth, healing, and but in a way that often associates females the experiences in a more adaptive way, ence, incorporate them into our social the ability to live a fulfilled, normative with something unsafe or even aversive, with reparative therapy, to facilitate and and halachic reality. Torah life, is well worth the effort. O and the normal male-to-male bonding potentiate therapeutic change in SSA Although the struggles of these indi- that is so vital to a boy’s self-identifica- patients. Over the past twelve years, viduals do deserve our complete empathy Dr. Norman Goldwasser, a clinical psychologist, is director of Horizon Psychological Services in tion as a male fails to occur. This results patients from such far-flung places as and unqualified support, we cannot Miami Beach. He specializes in the treatment of in an over-identification with females, Australia, Turkey, Europe, South America, endorse the absoluteness of the idea that trauma, marital dysfunction, and unwanted SSA. and a strong desire to bond with males. and throughout North America, have trav- change is not possible, any more than we See www.horizonpsych.com for more information.

14 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES FROM THE EDITOR nose twitches, as a way of seeing whether security staff has begun to ask passengers world adopt the effective El Al methods Continued from Front Cover you need to be questioned or searched questions so as to ascertain whether they in screening passengers. further. Their punch line is usually some- are Jewish and then just how Jewish, so For now, the TSA is concerned exclu- Amsterdam, despite being on a U.S. thing along the lines of, “You know that I to speak, passengers might be. To that sively about what’s in your bags, your cell Homeland Security watch list. Had he am asking you this because it’s possible end you will be asked questions about phone, or laptop computer, and the been successful, the over-250 passengers that someone gave you something to the Hebrew month you were born in, change in your pocket. According to Mr. would have died, along with countless pack into your luggage and it is really a where or whom you will be visiting in Dafna, while the creation of the TSA after others on the ground. bomb.” And as they say the word “bomb” Israel, or what yeshiva you attended. the 9/11 attacks was a vital and important “The American security apparatus is they are watching your facial reaction— Dafna believes that the new realities in step, the agents are minimally trained reactive—they are not innovative or cre- with a courteous smile, but very intently. air travel will make it imperative that TSA ative—and are very slow to change,” Over the last several years the El Al and other security agencies around the Continued on Page 16 Dafna said in an interview on Tuesday. “They have to adopt the El Al model for security, but they are unwilling to do so because of the costs involved,” he said. Dafna explained that to this day, even in this post-9/11 world of ours, U.S. security is based on examining passenger lists for fugitives from justice rather than those that are suspected terrorists. And, he adds, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is focused on the bags we carry and the things we may have in our pockets and what is or is not in our shoes. El Al is focused on those things as well, but trains their personnel in studying the people about to board any given flight. And that’s what those seemingly silly questions are about when you check in at any El Al counter, whether at JFK or in Tel Aviv. When these young people who are extensively trained ask you who packed your bags and whether they have been with you the whole time, they are not just looking for the simple and sometimes obvious answers to these questions. More than anything else, Yehuda Dafna says, they are studying your facial reaction to their inquiries and analyzing the look in your eyes and whether your

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 15 FROM THE EDITOR Al sky marshals can serve only up until same indications that would have been says. “We are paying about $20 an hour Continued from Page 15 the age of 27. Airlines based in the U.S., picked up if the alleged Detroit bomber and we have three eight-hour shifts per Dafna says, usually employ sky marshals had been appropriately scrutinized. “It’s day, and just finding personnel is a job in and poorly compensated, making about who are retired law-enforcement person- fundamental that if a passenger purchas- itself,” he says. $11 an hour, he said, with the supervisory nel in their forties and fifties. “The reality es a one-way ticket with cash and has no Another unrelated matter that has personnel being paid about $15 an hour. is that all the travel takes a toll on the luggage, he is up to something unusual,” been brought to Mr. Dafna’s attention is ISS Action was founded by Yehuda body and makes you less sharp and alert,” Dafna said. That these signs were not the traffic logjam that occurs at the cargo and Pam Dafna when, at about the time Dafna says. That’s the reason for the strict picked up anywhere along the line is terminals at the airport each time there is of the Persian Gulf War, shuls and organ- El Al age limit. astounding and a signal that something a Jewish funeral and a body is being izations demanded higher levels of secu- Dafna adds that there was a recent was amiss. As we know, all those signs shipped to Israel for burial. “The Port rity for their institutions and functions. incident at JFK where a sky marshal trav- were missed because people were just Authority that overseas airport opera- Yehuda was one of the first group of sky eled for two weeks for an overseas carrier not doing their jobs. tions is very concerned and anxious to marshals employed to ride shotgun on with an unloaded gun. The marshal had implement greater fees and changes to El Al flights around the world, back in apparently lost or misplaced a small box regulate the procedures for such events,” the 1970s and early 1980s. Since those of bullets for his gun. The ammunition Dafna says. days, the sky marshal program—that is, was found recently under the seat of an “It’s fundamental One of the chief problems here plainclothes armed security people on idle airplane as it was being cleaned on involves the large crowds that some of many flights—has rapidly expanded and the ground here in New York. The matter that if a passenger the funerals attract within the short time today is widely used. was reported on the news as an explosive designated for the service that takes place There was, however, no sky marshal device found aboard an empty plane, but purchases a one-way at the airport and the fact that cars are on the Northwest flight that was almost once the details of how the bullets made haphazardly parked, very often creating blown up as it flew into Detroit two it on board were discovered, the story ticket with cash and all kinds of additional problems. weeks ago. The use of the marshals has kind of disappeared. A few years ago, Yehuda Dafna took been reduced over the years, as security One of the important functions of ISS has no luggage, he is me into JFK through one of the obscure on the ground has increased. Up until Action, says Yehuda Dafna, is the supervi- back roads leading into the airport. After two weeks ago, the feeling was that the sory security his people do before the up to something flashing his identification once or twice, chances of a terrorist being able to board first person even steps on any given he drove alongside a runway, where I a flight were very slim, and the sky mar- flight. This includes overseeing the proce- unusual.” was able to observe up close the move- shals (who are paid about $30 an hour) dures that vendors follow in loading ment of the extraordinarily larger-than- added an expense to the operation of an planes with the food and beverages that life airplanes. We drove alongside the airline that some feel they can do with- are available on flights around the world. jets as they taxied, and we watched 747s out, as they are continuously considering “We have security personnel randomly Other projects at JFK that Mr. Dafna pick up speed as they magically lifted off the bottom line. inspecting food and meal trays as they and his ISS teams of security agents are on their way to wherever they were On Tuesday of this week, President are loaded on planes,” Mr. Dafna said. His dealing with include the reconstruction headed. I asked Yehuda if we could do Obama announced that the sky marshal security people also inspect the pillows, and repaving of runways at JFK now that again this week, just to get a flavor program, especially on international blankets, and reading material available under way. ISS is providing 24-hours-a- of what is taking place on the ground of flights, will now be expanded. Dafna for passengers. day security for the work being done at our busy airports. “It’s not a good time,” points out that there are several sky mar- Over the years, ISS has been employed the airport, overseeing the arrival and he said. “I don’t know if TSA is going to shals on El Al flights in both directions to investigate how illegal drugs are flown identity of construction personnel each let you in.” O between the U.S. and Israel. When he into the U.S. He says one of the key signs day. “Our biggest problem here is finding Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at served in that capacity, and still today, El that someone is a drug trafficker are the enough people that want to work,” Dafna [email protected].

16 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Automated Self-Check Security to the security officer every time.” First the passenger will be identified In order to join the testing phase, by his passport and the smartcard. If three registration booths will be set up there is any problem—for example, if System At Ben-Gurion Airport in Area D of the departures hall of the system does not identify the pas- Terminal 3, near the El Al counters. At senger—a security officer will be stand- BY ZOHAR and over the next two years member- the time of registration, the passenger ing by to identify the passenger. When BLUMENKRANTZ ship will expand to include the majori- will be asked to present his passport. A the passenger is identified by the sys- ty of passengers flying out of Ben- security official will be at the booth tem, he will have to respond to a series The Israel Airports Authority initiated Gurion International Airport. and the passport will be scanned, and of questions on the screen. The ques- a new system on Tuesday that enables “We have put in place the first stage he will ensure that the document is not tions are similar to the ones asked by passengers to carry out required security of an overall system that has comput- stolen or forged and that the photo- the security officers: “Who packed your checks without human interaction erized the process of passenger depar- graph of the passenger matches up. bags?”; “Are you armed?”; etc. when flying out of Ben-Gurion ture from Ben-Gurion International As the passenger answers the ques- International Airport. Airport,” said Zohar Gefen, head of the tions, a camera will identify his facial “This is the first stage in the develop- security checks section at the Airports expressions. Assuming the passenger ment of a system that will allow, in its Authority. passes that examination, he moves on final form, the passengers to carry out “In the first stage—security checks— As the passenger to the baggage check stage. At the El Al the entire pre-flight process—starting instead of a security officer dealing check-in, the smartcard will have with security checks, checking in for with a passenger one on one, we enable answers the already identified him as a passenger the flight, passport controls, and board- the passengers to register and leave a who has successfully passed the securi- ing—independently, in a quick, effi- biometric signature on the computer questions, a ty checks and whose luggage has under- cient, and comfortable way,” said Kobi system. He is issued a smartcard which gone security checks. Mor, director-general of Israel’s Airports remembers his characteristics, and the camera will During the next stage, where the pas- Authority. minute the system registers his signa- sengers undergo physical checks, the During the trial stage of the system, ture he can move through the electron- smartcard will once again relay the mes- which is known as UniPass, only pas- ic kiosk which constitutes the center of identify his facial sage that the passenger has passed sengers flying El Al who are members of the security check as far as the passen- through the security checks. This means the company’s frequent-flyer program, ger is concerned. The system is able to expressions. that the security officer will not have to known as King David, will be able to identify him biometrically and assign search for the clearance sticker current- participate. him a relevant security level, just like ly placed on passports. The Airports Authority says UniPass the human security officer does, only Mor said that “this is one of many is the first system of its kind in the better,” Gefen explained. A biometric scan of the face and the new projects in security that we are world. It was developed by the Gefen said the new system will assist fingers of the passengers will be beginning to implement at an overall Information and Computing Section of the security officer in “carrying out the made, and then the passenger will be cost of NIS 3 billion. This is in line with the Security Department at Airports process faster since the system will issued a smartcard. The passenger will the decisions of the board of directors Authority, in cooperation with remember, for example, the details of then move to a “security stand”— of the Airports Authority” and includes Bendertech. The cost of development is the passport [of the individual] passen- another machine—which will be part upgrades to various other systems expected to reach $15 million. ger every time he departs abroad, and of the line where passengers wait for including radar, runways, and area Signing up for UniPass will be free, he will not need to show his passport security checks. security. (Haaretz) O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 17 Terror Tunnels Gazans.” Intelligence officials, speaking Continued from Page 5 before the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Air Force Strafes Rocket Terrorists Security Committee in August, Egypt blames the tunnel network for announced that Hamas has used these facilitating attacks on its people. tunnels to smuggle in new-model BY TZVI BEN GEDALYAHU A Kassam rocket exploded near the In response to the popularity of Hamas Kassam rockets believed to be capable Gaza separation barrier earlier this on the Egyptian street and the threat that of reaching Gush Dan, the area encom- The Israeli Air Force on Tuesday week, and two more-powerful and radical Islam, as represented by Hamas passing Tel Aviv and its suburbs. bombed a rocket-launching cell that longer-range Grad rockets exploded in and the Brotherhood, poses to the secu- Palestine Today, a Gaza City-based was preparing to launch a missile on the town of Netivot last week. The Al southern Israel following a Kassam Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an arm of the rocket attack several hours earlier. One terrorist was killed and three others were wounded, one of them critically. IDF spokespersons said the retalia- The retaliation was tion was carried out in the area of Khan Yunis, located in south-central Gaza and carried out near near the sites of destroyed Jewish communities in Gush Katif. The Popular the sites of Resistance Committee terrorist organization’s Nasser Brigades branch said its destroyed Jewish members were in the rocket-launching cell. communities in The same group, along with Hamas and the al Qaeda-linked Army of Islam Gush Katif. terrorists, was responsible for the 2006 attack at the Kerem Shalom checkpoint that resulted in the death of two soldiers and the kidnapping of IDF soldier Fatah faction headed by Palestinian Gilad Shalit. Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, Smuggling tunnels such as this one are used to bring into Gaza everything from Foreign media reported that the Gaza took responsibility for the attack, in Russian- and Iranian-made missiles and rockets to grain and even luxury goods. region has been “mostly quiet” since the which one person was treated for Operation Cast Lead counterterrorist shock. The Popular Front for the campaign last year. However, the IDF Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) also said lar-nationalist leadership of Egypt, the news website whose stated goal is to noted that since the end of the three- it was behind the attack. country’s army has reportedly begun con- provide “focus on the Israeli terrorism week battle, which ended with a cease- Following that attack, the first on structing a steel barrier that will run against Palestinian people,” recently fire, Hamas and allied terrorists have Netivot in several months, the Israeli Air underground along the border, in an posted pictures of Gazans preparing for attacked Israel with nearly 300 Kassam Force bombed smuggler tunnels that attempt to halt the smuggling. the festival of Eid al-Adha, which show a and Grad missiles in addition to hun- terrorists intended to use to stage a mas- Khalid Meshaal, Hamas’s leader, bustling and full marketplace, contra- dreds of incidents of sniper fire and sive attack against Israeli civilians in the issued a statement from Damascus, call- dicting reports of widespread hunger in roadside bombings. western Negev. (Arutz Sheva) O ing the barrier “a new war against the strip. O

18 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES dously, it was an opportunity for me to per se). Suddenly, upon the conclusion of get together with other mothers facing the musical entertainment, out came a big similar challenging situations. man with a huge white beard sporting a December came, and Yussie’s teacher red velvet uniform chanting, “Ho, ho, ho! (who was Jewish) told me that they were Merry Christmas!” He came right up to me going to have a “holiday” party for all the and Yussie and gave him a big hug! students in the school with their families, I was stunned, to say the least, and was and I was invited to attend with Yussie. I immediately approached by his teacher was told they would provide some (whom I loved), who said, “Don’t worry, ‘What About Me?’ kosher snacks and drinks—not to this Santa is Jewish!” While she thought worry—and that this was going to be that was incredibly funny, she could “just a party” with no religious meaning. never have understood how shocked and We all take much in life for granted. I “waste” an expensive yeshiva education Yussie and I attended. We plopped our- disappointed I was. Was this what I had know I always did, and to a certain extent on them? selves down in the front row and pre- to look forward to? Holiday parties with I still do. A short time later, Yussie was born. All pared to be entertained. As we sat listen- a couple of Chanukah songs and a greet- A short time before our Yussie was of a sudden, “these children” were mine. I ing to the songs being played on the piano ing from Santa himself? born, when I was still quite ignorant was thrust into the same situation and (by the Jewish music teacher), I was con- Thankfully, around the same time about the “special needs” population, we Yussie was born, Kulanu came into exis- had an occasion to meet and get together tence in our community. It was an organ- with parents of a child from that commu- ization trying to fill the void for the spe- nity. Was this what I had to look forward cial-needs population—which our family “We need to include all types of chil- was now a member of. When Yussie was dren into our yeshivas, and all yeshiva old enough to be more involved, he had parents should share the financial bur- to? Holiday parties with a couple of the opportunity to be included in the dens involved,” I remember one of the activities of the HAFTR school when he parents remarking to my husband and Chanukah songs and a greeting from had the December break. Kind, caring stu- me. dents from HAFTR Middle School volun- At the time, I felt their pain, and yet . . Santa himself? teered as shadows, and Yussie was able to . Why would we all have to share the attend the same school, for a short time, financial burdens of the few special- that several of his siblings attended. What needs children in our community? a joy for him, and what an incredible joy Weren’t our tuitions large enough with- the same dilemma. What are the futures tent to see that no purely religious songs for his siblings to know that he was a out having to incur these extra expenses? for our children? Where were they sup- were played, but included were “I Had a yeshiva student for a few days in And why should we incur the large posed to get their Jewish education? Little Dreidel” and “Jingle Bells” (I’m not expenses for these children, who are but I distinctly remember an experience sure either would be considered religious, Continued on Page 20 a small part of the community? that I had when Yussie was less than two Furthermore, why can’t the public years old. I used to take him on schools, which are better funded and bet- Wednesday mornings to a Mommy and ter equipped for this position, take care Me program at the Association for of these children? After all, with “their” Children with Down Syndrome. Besides cognitive delays, why do we need to the program benefitting Yussie tremen-

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 19 MOTHER’S MUSINGS Continued from Page 19 December and later for a few days during the February break. On the first day of the December break this year, to keep Yussie’s attention as we waited in the hallway outside the elementary-school office for his shadow to arrive, I pointed out the wall of pictures of second-graders, which included Lea (Yussie’s seven-year-old sister) proudly receiving her Chumash. Yussie was happy to recognize her picture, but then he turned to me with a sad face and said, “What about me?” Although Yussie doesn’t have the opportunity as yet to have a formal yeshiva education, he is fortunate to live in a time when children with special needs are more included in the community, and in the Jewish community in particular. With the emergence of organizations like Kulanu and the Friendship Circle, our other children don’t shy away from special-needs children as they might have years ago. We are all more aware of the inner potential of every human being, no matter what their physical or cognitive limitations. A couple of years ago, under the aus- pices of the Chabad of the Five Towns and the Friendship Circle, a weekly Judaica Circle (i.e., Hebrew School) was formed to educate our special Jewish youth. Yussie has an opportunity to immerse himself in Judaism every week with the loving teachers, volunteers, and program director, Batsheva Borenstein. He davens and tries to learn the aleph-beis in a warm, nurturing environment. I so much appreciate the strides that he has made. Each Shabbos, Yussie is included in the “typical” morning groups at the Chabad of the Five Towns. He davens along with all the other children and is included in their activities as any other member of the group. Each week, at the conclusion of the morning services, Rabbi Wolowik calls up two boys and two girls from the morning groups to bestow a “best daven- er” award upon them. These children are judged, within their groups, as the children who displayed the most attention to the prayer services that particular week. As the davening concluded, Rebbetzin Chanie Wolowik whispered to me, “Phyllis, Yussie was chosen this week.” I wasn’t sure that I heard right—maybe I was dreaming—and immediately tears came to my eyes. “There’s my good friend, Yussie Lubin,” the rabbi announced from the pulpit. It was true—there he was, in front of the whole shul! “Yussie, you are receiving the ‘best dav- ener of the week’ award!” As Yussie accepted the trophy, a big smile lit up his face and he announced, “Yes!” The entire shul clapped. It seemed that they clapped more for Yussie than for any other child before (but I am prejudiced). I can’t describe how happy I was for him, and how proud I was that he was our son. I pray that more programs will be created to instill the love of Judaism in all our children, and that there will be a time when no one will need to ask, “What about me?” O

Phyllis Joy Lubin is an attorney with Rosenfeld & Maidenbaum, LLP, who resides in Cedarhurst with her husband Leonard and six children: Naftali, Shoshana, Rivka, Rochel, Yosef, and Lea. She welcomes your questions and comments at [email protected]. 20 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Rahat Mayor Urges Bedouin Disarmament BY SAMUEL SOKOL ISRAEL CORRESPONDENT

Terrified customers fled in panic at the Negev Mall in Be’er Sheva last week, as a Bedouin tracker from the IDF’s Special Desert Patrol unit shot dead a fellow soldier in a squabble over a cellular telephone. This is the second such incident this year. In January, a member of the unit killed a colleague during a patrol. This incident came as a result of an argument over a radio. The defense and prosecution reached a plea bargain by which the shooter will serve an 18-year sentence. Both soldiers were residents of the Bedouin city of Rahat. Local police have expressed worry over the possibility of a reprisal from the victim’s family. Rahat mayor Faiz abu Sahiban called on defense officials to impose restrictions on Bedouin soldiers bringing weapons home on leave, saying that the IDF must “reconsider the procedures of weapons-carrying” during an interview with army radio. There have been calls in the IDF for the unit to “clean house” due to the shooting. Lt. Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi, the IDF chief of staff, visited leaders of Israel’s Bedouin community in November to celebrate the Muslim festival of Eid Al- Adkha (“Festival of Sacrifice”). Ashkenazi told the assembled notables that “We have no other country, and there is no way other than to nurture the cooperation with the Bedouin community. The IDF will continue to lead the way in allowing equal opportunities for Bedouin soldiers to integrate to all military roles. In my name and the name of the IDF, I salute you and bless you with a happy holiday.” Bedouin soldiers are known for having problems with military discipline. At the IDF Central Command’s training base at Bet Guvrin, where the IDF trackers course is conducted, Bedouin personnel are known to use guard booths as bathrooms. Arabs and Druze constitute only 22 percent of Israel’s population, but account for 59 percent of all murders, according to Israeli police. Alean al- Krenawi of the Center for Bedouin Studies and Development at Ben Gurion University of the Negev has warned that “The Bedouin are a ticking bomb that could explode very powerfully.” O 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 21 any sincere Jew strives for constantly? Westernized idea of achievement, so we How can we stand before Hashem, in feel the need to have external barometers Faux Frumkeit deep conversation with Him, while of success in our spiritual lives, too. The simultaneously working to impress the funny thing is, spiritual accomplishment person sitting next to us? Can a husband doesn’t work that way. There can’t be BY STACEY SOLOMON days while I sought to articulate the gen- publicly profess love, or express apology, competition in its simplest sense, and a eral “wrongness” of it. The speaker’s per- to his wife with any credibility, if she developed individual specifically doesn’t A few weeks ago, I happened to find spective, though given under the guise of knows he is merely seeking public feel compelled to trumpet his every reli- myself at a lecture given by a well-estab- “frumkeit,” is actually both k’neged approval? gious experience—be it a moving tefillah lished educator. At this small gathering of haTorah and counterproductive. A friend of mine, “Aviva,” hails from a or mastery of a middah.” roughly seminary-age young women, the The Chovos HaLevavos, in Sha’ar Yichud far-flung community, and her home- Back in the lecture hall, my fellow speaker wanted to discuss various topics in HaMa’aseh (a chapter on devoting one’s town’s shul boasts a waist-high divider attendees were all young, unmarried girls. chinuch. It was a casual, off-the-cuff com- actions to Hashem alone), explains that between the men’s and women’s prayer Though it is important to be melamed ment of hers that compelled me to write one who performs mitzvos for the areas. When catching up with the shul’s z’chus on the speaker, it did sound as this article. Though the perspective pre- approval of others is even worse than an davening, Aviva relates, she moves to the though she was trying to raise a genera- sented by the speaker troubled me greatly, tion of “faux frum” Jews. In light of all I hope that the following is not perceived this, I’d go so far as to presume that as a bitter diatribe of any kind. Rather, I Rabbeinu Bachya, hearing the lecturer’s believe in the importance of voicing a Can a husband publicly profess love, or opinion, would not only object, but protest to a problematic mentality, and the would advise, “If those are your motiva- necessity of doing so in a public medium. express apology, to his wife with any tions, stay home!” This speaker was explaining the value Furthermore, it seems that in manipu- of hishtadlus to clarify a prior statement credibility, if she knows he is merely lating others with theatrical piety, we for- on the importance of tefillah for success get a fundamental law that governs our in education. To illustrate her point, she lives: HaKadosh Baruch Hu mizaveg began, “Let’s say I want to get married…” I seeking public approval? zivugim. We won’t find our zivug by going reflexively cringed; based on some of her around Him—that is to say, performing subtler comments earlier, I was anticipat- mitzvos for the sake of others. In any- ing a view with which I would disagree. I thing we do, in all areas in which we wasn’t disappointed. The teacher contin- idolater. (One reason given, interestingly, far side of the women’s section in order desire success, Hashem isn’t part of the ued, “…then I would make sure to get is that an idolater worships a specific to be less visible when standing. There is picture, He is the picture. exposure. I need to go to shul. Going to deity or set of deities, so his offense is lim- always, she told me frankly, a small voice Of course, we shouldn’t be ashamed of shul is very important, girls, because ited; a hypocrite, however, seeks the inside that wishes to be seen in moments our actions. I’m not proposing that we maybe someone will see me davening approval of the human race, and therefore of devotion (“Maybe someone on the refrain from learning or davening in pub- like such a tzadekes, and think ‘Oh!’ includes in his focus endless ‘deities.’) other side will like what they see”), but to lic, chas v’shalom. We should be enthusi- “(Here she mimed the ‘someone’ having a Rabbeinu Bachya tells us, in no uncertain avoid the distraction of an audience, she astic in serving Hashem and do so at bright idea—for a shidduch, of course.) terms, of the absolute necessity of trying chooses to remain less noticeable. I every opportunity. However, we must Though my publicly argumentative to divest ourselves of ulterior motives, admire Aviva’s spiritual modesty; here is constantly assess our motives and seek to years are (mostly) behind me, I was and directing our mitzvos to G-d alone. someone of great integrity in avodah. keep private the most important relation- nonetheless concerned by this illustra- This is obviously an area over which A rebbetzin in Israel once explained to ship in our lives—our relationship with tion, and it occupied my mind for several few have mastery, but isn’t it something me, “We are raised with the competitive HaKadosh Baruch Hu. O

22 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES items that can be useful. For the first medicines instead of throwing them time, it seems the White House is giving out. It would save time, money, and the Halachic Shorts out an award to people who conceive of medicines. ways of performing this mitzvah—well, When the president presented the sort of. It is called the Securing award to Fichtner, he said that federal BY RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN Vincent usually received his allowance Americans Value and Efficiency (SAVE) agencies could save $19 billion through from Theo on or about the 23rd of each award. President Obama launched the improvements to contracting and acqui- Not Exactly Yibum: month, although sometimes he received award earlier this year when he asked sition practices. Van Gogh And His Ear two a month. It is known from a letter employees of the federal government to The three runner-ups involved ideas The Torah teaches us a mitzvah of he wrote to Theo at the end of January hand in cost-saving ideas and 38,000 pro- relating to allowing people to make yibum, the Levirate marriage. In this mitz- 1889 that he had received what he called posals were submitted. Social Security appointments online, vah, concern is shown by one brother “the much-needed money” on December The winner was Nancy Fichtner. stopping the double-inspecting of HUD toward another. The concern is that the 23. Bailey argues that the letter in the Fichtner works at the VA Medical Center housing, and directly depositing national brother not leave this world with no one forest fees. Hopefully the other 37,996 continuing his line or bearing his name. suggestions won’t go to waste either. O The mitzvah lies in contrast to new research concerning Vincent Van Gogh’s ear. Why did he cut it off? The famous painter was already Martin Bailey, author and curator, has found new evidence that indicates that For the next issue, Van Gogh slashed his ear after learning psychologically disturbed, and this deadline for reserving that his brother Theo was about to get married. Vincent relied heavily upon ad space is Theo both for emotional and financial was the straw that broke the support. Monday, January 11 Bailey devised his theory after meticu- camel’s back. lous detective work concerning a letter in at 5:00 P.M. a Van Gogh painting. The painting was made shortly after his injury. Bailey concludes that this letter was written by All graphics for ads Theo from Paris in December 1888 and painting contained the news from Theo in Grand Junction, Colo. She and her contained news of his engagement. This, that he had proposed to his girlfriend, children traveled to the White House must be in by he believes, tipped Vincent over the edge. Johanna Bonger. recently to receive her award from The famous painter was already psycho- The mystery about Van Gogh’s ear has President Obama. Her idea was based on Tuesday, January 12 logically disturbed, and this was the been heavily debated for decades. her observation that Veterans Affairs straw that broke the camel’s back to Perhaps it has been finally resolved. hospitals were throwing away the med- cause him to harm himself. icine of each patient when that patient at 5:00 P.M. “Vincent was fearful that he might Save Money And Avoid Waste was discharged. But who pays for the lose his brother’s emotional and finan- The Talmud discusses the fascinating new prescriptions? Why, the VA, of Call 516-984-0079 cial support,” writes Bailey in the mitzvah of bal tashchis. It is forbidden to course. Fichtner thought the VA should January edition of The Art Newspaper. destroy fruit trees and to waste other give the patient his/her partially used

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 23 From The Chassidic Masters Mashiach’s Donkey

And Moshe took his wife and children, Torah relates (Bereishis 22:3), and loaded set them upon the donkey, and returned to it with supplies for the Binding (the the land of Egypt. wood, the fire, and the knife) for the —Sh’mos 4:20 three-day trek from Hebron to Mount The prophet Zecharyah describes Moriah in Jerusalem. Mashiach as “a pauper, riding on a don- Seven generations later, Moshe was key.” The simple meaning of the verse is also dispatched on a mission by G-d: to that Mashiach—whom the Midrash take the Jewish people out of Egypt and describes as “greater than Avraham, high- bring them to Mount Sinai, where He er than Moshe, and loftier than the would communicate to them their mis- supernal angels” (Yalkut Shimoni after sion in life as His chosen people. So Yeshayah 52:13)—is the epitome of self- “Moshe took his wife and children, set effacement. Indeed, humility is the hall- them upon the donkey, and set out for mark of the righteous: they recognize Egypt.” The donkey, stresses the Torah— that their tremendous talents and the very same donkey, our Sages achievements, and the power vested in explain, that served Avraham and that them as leaders, are not theirs, but their will bear Mashiach.

The most Avraham could do was to harness the physical to serve the spiritual, to use the donkey to carry the accessories of his Divine service.

Creator’s. They live not to realize and ful- Avraham, Moshe, and Mashiach— fill themselves, but to serve the Divine three who employ this donkey in their purpose of creation. fulfillment of G-d’s will. But the extent to On a deeper level, Mashiach’s donkey which the donkey is involved in their represents the essence of the messianic mission differs. With Avraham, it carries process, a process that began with the his supplies; with Moshe, it carries his beginning of time and which constitutes wife and children; while Mashiach is the very soul of history. In the beginning, described as himself riding the donkey. the Torah tells us, when G-d created the heavens and the earth, when the universe The Rescinded Decree was still empty, unformed, and shrouded Conventional wisdom has it that the in darkness, the spirit of G-d hovered spiritual is greater than the physical, the above the emerging existence. Says the ethereal more lofty than the material. Midrash, “ ‘The spirit of G-d hovered’— Nevertheless, our Sages have taught that this is the spirit of Mashiach.” For G-d created the entirety of existence, Mashiach represents the Divine spirit of including the most lofty spiritual worlds, creation—the vision of the perfected because “He desired a dwelling in the world that is G-d’s purpose in creating it lower world.” Our physical existence is and populating it with willful, thinking, the objective of everything He created, and achieving beings. the environment within which His pur- Mashiach’s donkey has a long, presti- pose in creation is to be realized. gious history. Time and again it makes its G-d desired that we refine and elevate appearance through the generations, sur- the material existence; that the physical facing at key junctures of the messianic reality, whose concreteness and self-cen- process. Each time we see it fulfilling the teredness obscure our inner vision and same function, but in a slightly different distort our true priorities, be redirected as manner—reflecting the changes our a positive force in our lives; that we bring world undergoes as it develops toward its to light the goodness and perfection ultimate state of perfection. inherent in all of His creation, including—and especially—the lowliest of His Avraham, Moshe, and Mashiach works, the material world. Mashiach’s donkey first appears in the The Hebrew word for donkey is year 2084 from creation (1677 BCE), as chamor, from the word chomer, material. Avraham heads for the “Binding of Isaac,” Mashiach’s donkey is the material beast his tenth and greatest reiteration of his harnessed, the physical directed to higher faith in G-d. “Avraham rose early in the and loftier ends. morning and readied his donkey,” the But humanity’s mission of elevating 24 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES the material entails a long and involved Jew, began the process of sublimating the Torah’s effect on the physical world. process, a historic effort in which each the material, of realizing its potential to Ever since, whenever a person uses a mate- generation builds upon the attainments express the goodness and perfection of rial resource to perform a mitzvah—e.g., And the priest of of its predecessors. For the physical and the Creator. But Avraham lived before giving money to charity, using the energy Midian had seven the spiritual are worlds apart; indeed, the revelation at Sinai, before G-d his body extracts from his food to fuel his the very nature of G-d’s creation is such rescinded the decree that had divided fervor in prayer—he “refines” these physi- daughters; and they that a vast gulf divides the two, making the world between higher and lower, cal objects, divesting them of their mun- came to water their them natural antagonists. By nature, between matter and spirit. In his day, danity and selfishness. With each such act, almost by definition, a person devoted the original order instituted at creation the physical world becomes that much father’s flock to spiritual pursuits shuns the material, still held sway: the physical and the spir- holier, that much more in harmony with (Sh’mos 2:16) while material life coarsens a person’s itual were two separate, incompatible its essence and function. Each such act soul and dulls his or her spiritual sensi- worlds. The most Avraham could do was brings closer the day when our world will Yisro was at first a priest tivity. Only when G-d descended on to harness the physical to serve the spir- finally and completely shed the husk of Mount Sinai was the wall between spirit itual, to use the donkey to carry the coarseness that is the source of all igno- to idolatrous worship; but and matter breached. The Divine reality accessories of his Divine service. The rance and strife, bringing on a new dawn when he saw that there was revealed itself within the earthly reality; physical remained as coarse as ever and of universal peace and perfection. the Torah was given to man, enabling could not directly be involved in his So Mashiach, who represents the ulti- no truth in it, he summoned him to sanctify the mundane, to express spiritual life; nevertheless, Avraham mate fulfillment of Torah, himself rides his townsmen and said: the all-pervading truth of G-d within, took the first step in wresting the mate- the donkey of the material. For he heralds Hitherto I ministered unto and via, the material world. rial from its inherent self-absorption by a world in which the material is no The Midrash uses the following parable utilizing it, albeit peripherally, to assist longer the lower or secondary element, you, but now I have become to explain the significance of the event: in his service of G-d. but an utterly refined resource, no less old; choose another priest. Once there was a king who decreed: “The Moshe, on the other hand, was embark- central and significant a force for good people of Rome are forbidden to journey to ing on the mission that was to culminate than the most spiritual creation. O And he returned unto them Syria, and the people of Syria are forbidden in his receiving the Torah, the medium by all the insignia of his priest- to journey to Rome.” Likewise, when G-d which G-d empowered man to dissolve Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe; created the world He decreed: “The heavens the dichotomy between the higher and adapted by Yanki Tauber. Courtesy of hood.Whereupon they MeaningfulLife.com via Chabad.org. Find more are G-d’s, and the earth is given to man” lower domains. The Torah instructs and Torah articles for the whole family at excommunicated him, that (Tehillim 115:16). But when He wished to enables us to sanctify even the most mun- www.chabad.org/parshah. no man be in his company, give the Torah to Israel, He rescinded His dane aspects of our lives, to integrate our original decree, and declared: “The lower material selves and environment in our or work for him or tend his realms may ascend to the higher realms, spiritual goals. So Moshe used the donkey At 5TJT.com flock; he asked the shep- and the higher realms may descend to the to carry his wife and children. A person’s lower realms. And I, Myself, will begin”—as wife and children are an extension of his you can enjoy articles herds to look after his it is written, “And G-d descended on Mount own self—in the words of our Sages, “a in 3 ways: flock, but they refused, and Sinai,” and then it says, “And to Moshe He person’s wife is like his own body” he had to employ his said, ‘Go up to G-d.’” (Talmud, Berachos 24a) and “a child is a 1. Read This explains the difference in the limb of his father” (Eiruvin 70b). Beginning daughters. 2. Print extent to which Avraham and Moshe with Moshe, the material began to play a (Midrash Rabbah) involved the material donkey in their central and intimate role in our life’s work. 3. Email respective missions. Avraham, the first But Moshe marks only the beginning of

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 25 Battling Anti-Zionism On Israeli Campuses

An Interview With spokesman for and promoter of free-mar- how it is harming the country. education. Many of them openly call on Dr. Steven Plaut ket economic ideas. I sought to attack the Q. Who are the worst academic offend- the world to boycott Israel. Some openly B Y SAMUEL SOKOL residual socialist policies and suppres- ers against Israel? support terrorist attacks against Jews. sion of competition, which were the fun- A. Several hundred people, most of Almost all the offenders are Israeli Jews; Israeli academic anti-Zionism, and in damental ideologies of all political par- very few are Arabs. Some are Israelis living some extreme cases overt anti-Semitism, ties in Israel, including the Likud. I joined outside Israel. Rather recently, a professor has become a major story in the Jewish Daniel Doron and some others in ham- at Sapir College kicked a student out of news media as of late, in large part due to mering away at these anti-productive class for wearing an IDF uniform. an op-ed in the Los Angeles Times in monstrosities and against centralized Q. What do you think of the decision by which Professor Neve Gordon of Ben command and control of the economy, Defense Minister Barak to cut ties with the Gurion University called for an interna- fighting through the media. Yeshivat Hesder in Har Bracha, in light of tional boycott of the Jewish state. I did so until the Oslo fiasco began. anti-IDF stances taken by professors at In order to clarify this issue for our Once Rabin and Peres abandoned tradi- Israeli universities? readers, the Five Towns Jewish Times tional Israeli policy regarding the A. It is clearly absurd. Some teachers at turned to Professor Steven Plaut, Ph.D., Palestinians and pursued Peace Through Har Bracha expressed opposition to the considered by many to be Neve Gordon’s Appeasement and Capitulation, I became government’s policy of expelling settlers chief academic opponent and one of the convinced that economic policy was sec- from their homes, but demanded that staunchest defenders of Zionism on ondary and that all of Israel had become yeshiva students obey the law and serve Israeli campuses. a single-issue country. I believed that the in the army. By contrast, hundreds of rad- Plaut runs a website called Isracampus, Oslo debacle had to be opposed and ical faculty members at Israeli universi- which works to expose and monitor the reversed, and that every ounce of energy ties demand that Israelis refuse to serve anti-Israel political activities of radical must be devoted to that lest the country in the army altogether, break the law, and leftist Israeli academics. It is modeled be annihilated by the stupidity of the these same radicals often call for Israel to roughly after Campus Watch in the U.S., a Israeli political elite. I still believe this. be annihilated altogether. The army has website run by noted Arabist Daniel Today I am very active with a small Dr. Steven Plaut not cut off ties with Israeli universities, Pipes, which does similar work in moni- group of similar-minded people in operat- even though some army officers have toring American academics in Middle ing Isracampus. It is a website and group been assigned to take courses with ultra- Eastern studies departments. that exposes and monitors the anti-Israel them documented and exposed on haters of Israel on the campuses, includ- The Five Towns Jewish Times spoke political activities of radical leftist Israeli www.Isracampus.org.il, are spread among ing the nefarious Ilan Pappe. Lecturers with Plaut about “economic peace,” aca- academics and faculty members. I believe Israeli universities and colleges. The very who penalize students who wear uni- demic anti-Zionism, and his long-stand- that the suicidal policies pursued by Israel worst centers of academic radicalism are forms or serve in the reserves should be ing legal feud with Neve Gordon. over the past two decades all stem from Ben Gurion University and Tel Aviv summarily fired, even if they hold tenure. Q. How did you get involved in Zionist the artificial power of the Israeli Far Left, University, while the University of Haifa Q. Can you tell us a little bit about your activism? especially via its hegemony over Israeli and the Hebrew University are only slight- long-standing legal battle with Neve A. When I first came to Israel, I stayed universities, courts, and the media. We ly behind. The worst faculty offenders are Gordon? out of political debate and discourse. At think the world needs to know just who usually employed in the humanities or the the time I saw my role as becoming a and what the Israeli academic Left is, and soft social sciences, as well as in law and Continued on Page 28

26 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 27 Battling Anti-Zionism lishing fawning sycophantic praise of turned almost everything in the original Amal Jamal at TAU, Asad Ghanem at Haifa Continued from Page 26 neo-Nazi Norman Finkelstein. I also verdict, but left some residual issues University, and a few other Arab faculty described Gordon and the group of unresolved. That is why I appealed to members have become very open and A. Well, it is all about to go to the “human shields,” which illegally entered Israel’s Supreme Court. The whole legal extremist in recent years. Some express Supreme Court, so I may have a better Ramallah to defend terrorists from the battle has been going on for about eight their hatred of Israel and their opposition comment for you in a few months. In any Israeli army and prevent their capture, as years. We will see if the Supreme Court to Israel’s continued existence as a Zionist case, it is Israel’s most notorious SLAPP “Judenrat Wannabes.” has the courage to rule unambiguously in state. By and large, though, the Israel-hat- suit, that is, a harassment lawsuit Gordon, who lives in Beer Sheba, ran favor of freedom of speech and against ing Arab faculty are far less extremist than attempting to silence one’s critics via friv- to Nazareth to file the harassment suit, neo-fascist SLAPP suit harassment. are the Israel-hating Jewish faculty mem- olous libel litigation. The suit in question hoping it would be assigned to a radical Professor Amal Jamal of Tel Aviv bers at Israeli universities. has been described in the media as the Arab judge there. The judge [Reem University is threatening to sue Israeli Q. What can be done regarding Israel’s Israeli version of the David Irving suit Naddaf, ed.] for the first round in court newscaster Dan Margalit for responding poor state of academic performance and against Deborah Lipstadt, with me play- was indeed a radical anti-Israel Arab harshly and kicking MK Jamal Zahalka off falling quality of universities? ing Deborah Lipstadt. woman, whose husband was the right- his program after the legislator insulted A. Privatize, privatize, privatize! Turn Briefly, Neve Gordon is a fanatically hand party associate of Azmi Bishara him personally and stated that Ehud the public aid to the universities over to anti-Israel and anti-Jewish Marxist lectur- (the Knesset Member in hiding now Barak likes to listen to classical music students, like veterans’ vouchers in the er in political science at Ben Gurion because he is wanted by Israel for spying while children are murdered. Zahalka U.S., and let those students shop for the University. He routinely denounces Israel and treason). also called Tel Aviv occupied territory. best education. Force the universities to as a Nazi-like, racist, apartheid, fascist She explicitly endorsed Holocaust revi- Q. What is your take on academics get- compete. Do away with tenure so that entity, and he has called for Israel’s exis- sionism in her verdict and also declared ting involved in such issues? Does this pseudo-academic extremists with little or tence to be terminated altogether. His there that all of Israel stands on lands remind you at all of Neve Gordon’s attempts no scholastic achievement can get the articles are so venomous that they are car- stolen from another people. to discredit your criticism of his views and boot. Strip the universities of their entitle- ried by Holocaust denial and neo-Nazi That judge simply ignored all Israeli to silence you through legal means? ment to taxpayer funding and force them websites. He issued the call last summer case law and defenses of freedom of A. Most Arab faculty members in Israeli to compete for students armed with in the Los Angeles Times for a worldwide speech, and effectively ruled that sedition universities keep a low profile and keep vouchers. Convince donors to universities boycott against Israel. is protected speech while criticism of their opinions to themselves. An open to demand accountability. Fire professors Gordon filed a SLAPP suit against me sedition is libel. She found against me. secret is that many are beneficiaries of involved in law breaking and in treason. because I dared to criticize him for pub- Later a Nazareth appeals court over- affirmative action preferences. In any case, Q. As an economist and nationalist political thinker, what is your take on Bibi’s economic peace initiative? A. It is an empty slogan. Economic prosperity and growth will make Israel stronger but will not make the Arabs any less belligerent. Islamo-fascist hatred of Israel and Jews, together with Arab terrorism, do not diminish when standards of living rise. Much to the contrary, economic comfort in the Islamic world (and higher education) produces terrorism and fanaticism, not moderation. Q. Have you had any success? A. It is an uphill battle. There are small achievements and minor successes, but most of the battle still lies ahead. Rescuing Israel from the Left is a long trench war that has been going on for decades and will go on much longer. No matter how many times the ideas and policies of the Far Left are discredited and fail, they just crop up all over again. This is as true under governments headed by the Likud as it is of those led by the Labor Party. Q. What can the public do about the deplorable state of academic anti-Zionism? A. Well, there are some encouraging signs. First, Zionist students on Israeli campuses are well organized and vocal and getting more effective and aggressive in confronting the tenured Fifth Column. These students are now getting organized to “spy” on radical faculty members and leak to the media what they say and how they indoctrinate inside their classrooms. Second, many of the academic radicals have been intimated by Isracampus and groups like NGO Monitor, who follow what they do and say, and publicize their behavior. They are frightened by the idea that someone is keeping tabs on them. Third, major university donors and patrons from around the world are speaking up much more openly and making it clear that they do not want their donations to Israeli higher education misused for anti-Israel political indoctrination and anti-Zionist sedition. There is still a long way to go. The university heads still turn a blind eye to mis- use of the classroom for political indoctrination. Hiring and promotion decisions are still subject to a corrupt process that rewards pseudo-academic political radicalism and sometimes punishes serious research and academic work. O 28 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Even if I were the forgiving type and make sincere amends. Nothing less will inclined to accept the possibility that his satisfy me. But, given that he’s 85 years old, apology was sincere, a simple “I’m sorry” and since close to 70,000 copies of his just doesn’t work for me. It’s too little, too obscene book have been sold, it’s doubt- late. What about all those people who ful that Carter has a shot at convincing me bought his book? If he really wants to of his sincerity. The damage is done. And show good faith, he could begin by taking no toothy grin from him as he issues an back every single book that was purchased apology is going to change my mind. and issuing a refund to all those who He believed what he said when he said What Does Jimmy Want? bought it. But that’s not enough. He would it, and he put those lies in his book. And also have to do a major follow-up. chances are that he believes it still. But for Call me skeptical, call me cranky, or just protesting Nazi activity, called Carter’s An appropriate follow-up would be for some reason, a mere three years later, here think of me as someone who has no con- apology a publicity stunt, while the Anti- Jimmy to institute a comprehensive study he is apologizing for his canards. Of fidence in the intrinsic goodness of Defamation League’s Abe Foxman referred to see how many of those who read the course, I’m sure that it has nothing to do human beings. None of those labels will to it as a good start to repairing relations book passed on the biased and nonfactual with his grandson’s political ambitions in bother me. I simply do not believe Jimmy with the Jewish community. It can’t be information to their offspring. The next the great state of Georgia. It couldn’t be Carter’s recent apology for anything he has both. So which is it? Maybe it’s important step would be to arrange for classes to be that Jimmy Carter wants to ensure that his done to stigmatize Israel. And I want to to ascertain the reasons for and the expect- conducted for these kids in an effort to re- grandson will get the Jewish vote, could it? know what’s really on his mind. To put it ed outcome of the apology. I can’t wait to educate them. I would also propose that But it matters not, because I wouldn’t more succinctly, what does he want? see what happens next. he speak to each one of these classes and vote for Jimmy or any grandchild of his Maybe he wants eternal happiness. At I liked Jimmy when he was clasping the acknowledge that he distorted the facts. for the position of dogcatcher. Maybe that the age of 85, he may feel that it won’t be hands of Menachem Begin and Anwar He would have to admit that he didn’t family ought to stick to what they do best; long before he meets his maker. Maybe he Sadat on the White House lawn. I was in know, or didn’t care about, the history of there’s no shame in being peanut farmers! even believes that our G-d is his maker. awe of him, because I believed that he the Arab-Israeli conflict. And he would Although, personally I prefer cashews. O And could it be that he’s worried that briefly left his Southern Baptist thinking need to appear in person—no video short- Hashem won’t be overjoyed about his hav- behind and sincerely desired to see a last- cut allowed. Hannah Berman lives in Woodmere and is a licensed real-estate broker associated with ing likened Israel’s policies to the state of ing Middle East peace. Who would have He lied. And for that reason, he would Marjorie Hausman Realty. She can be reached at apartheid in South Africa? guessed that the guy is a chameleon? have to do all of the above in order to [email protected] or 516-902-3733. Is this the same guy who accepted a Nobel Peace Prize because in 1979, as president, he brokered a peace treaty between Israel and Egypt?

He could begin by taking back every single book that was purchased and issuing a refund to all those who bought it.

It’s confusing. Which time was he being honest? Was it when he brokered the peace agreement, indicating that Israel was a worthy peace partner? Or was it when he wrote his 2006 book that was highly critical of Israel’s treatment of Arabs in Gaza and the West Bank? Additionally, this good ol’ boy made repeated trips to Gaza to witness firsthand Israel’s alleged dastardly mistreatment of Arabs. Was he being true to himself when he met with Hamas leaders? Or was it when he deliv- ered his recent message requesting for- giveness with an “al cheit” attached to it? It was a clever touch. Mr. Carter has done so much backpedal- ing and flip-flopping that if the top brass at Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey get their hands on him they might well offer him a job as either an accomplished cyclist or an acrobat. The man might just have a stellar circus career ahead of him in his twilight years. The big mystery is less about his hon- esty than about what he has on his mind. At his age he’s not likely to run for public office; considering that he has already held the highest office, as president of the United States, what more could he aspire to? So what does he want? Hopefully he doesn’t have a hidden agenda. Maybe he wants to divide and conquer. If that’s the case, his apology might be an attempt to cause dissension among members of the tribe. And he just might have succeeded in that, because there was immediate disagreement among various Jewish organizations. The president of Shalom International in Miami, an organization dedicated to 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 29 Defining Death Down

BY RABBI AVI SHAFRAN cle reflexes. In several highly publicized cases, some have awoken, even after Ironically, or maybe not, as one scien- many years, from their seeming oblivi- tific establishment raises alarms about ousness. Most, though, do not; and many what it perceives to be dire threats to the are removed from life support and planet, another is posing demonstrable deprived of water and nutrition. But cal- threats to individual human lives. culating percentages begs the larger ques- The trove of e-mails written by climate tion—whether such people are, with scientists at East Anglia University in whatever their physical limitations while England that was made public last month in their “vegetative” states, in fact alive. seems to implicate some of those professionals as having sought to alter data and suppress evidence about global warming. The patient was able to The e-mails certainly show that scientists can be as spiteful, conniving, and decep- follow complex tive as anyone else. Global warming skep- tics have seized upon the e-mails’ revela- commands with her tions to promote their skepticism; whether it is warranted or not remains an mind, imagining playing open question. tennis and walking But another idea, this one promoted by much of the medical establishment, through the rooms of presents a clear and present danger. “Decisions are made every day in this her home. country to withdraw and remove people from life support,” says a doctor quoted by Dr. Sanjay Gupta in his book Cheating “Many doctors harbor a therapeutic Death, “without really giving them a nihilism about such patients,” writes Dr. chance.” And, as was recently reported in Ford Vox, a resident physician at the New York Times, “terminal sedation”— Washington University in St. Louis, in the administering drugs to alleviate pain but Washington Post, “but this research thereby hastening death—has been should give us good reason to keep our embraced by many medical professionals. minds open.” Life, quite literally, isn’t what it used to be. The research to which he refers Then there are the patients who are in includes that of neuroscientist Dr. Adrian what is called a “vegetative state”—showing no responses to stimuli, beyond mus- Continued on Page 34

30 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES position. Do we say something to him? I’m sure you’ve reviewed your parent- To her? To his parents, who I’m sure hate ing techniques over and over again, trying Chaya at this point? to figure out what you might have done I’m telling you—I really think it’s so wrong to create this problem. But my much easier to be the parent of the guess is that there is a certain randomness wounded child than to be the parent of about Chaya’s temperament that cannot the bully. We’re finding it to be a very dif- be fully understood. Therefore, perhaps ficult burden. Now what? you may want to work on letting go of Dear Esther, really is—and then run for his life. Embarrassed some, if not all, of the self-blame that you A typical story that I hear about usual- So, three years and one baby later, noth- Dear Embarrassed, are experiencing. As you mentioned, ly involves one or both parents (usually ing much has changed. Josh still seems I can understand how painful and yes, Chaya grew up in a loving and respectful it’s the mother) who are terribly upset totally enamored of Chaya. She asks for embarrassing, it is to be the parent of a home. The best way our children “usually” because their daughter is married to something, he jumps. She is home all day grown child acting badly—particularly learn how to behave is by modeling their someone who “isn’t good enough” for her. with the baby, while he works hard at his when her behavior does not resemble behavior after their parents’. It sounds like Usually they will describe how their son- job; when he comes home from work, he your behavior or that of your husband. you modeled some good stuff, but she in-law, for instance, is a lazy bum who takes over all the household duties, with- Plus, it seems you can add the emotion of ignored it, by choice or by temperament. lets his wife do all the work. And they will out getting a moment to relax. He takes befuddlement to your list of things that The most interesting and puzzling part go on and on about how terrific their care of the baby, washes dishes, and does make you feel sad and shameful. How of this scenario is why Josh was drawn daughter is and how she deserves some- laundry. I think it’s ridiculous. She bullies could this happen? Why did this happen? into it and why he is going along with the one better. It’s not unusual for parents to him and orders him around. This happens Sooner or later, most of us figure out that madness. Not knowing anything about feel that their child is too good for any- all the time, even in front of us and in life doesn’t always make a whole lot of his upbringing, I would still not be sur- one and that whoever married this child front of her in-laws. sense. We are thrown curveballs that take us prised to learn that maybe he had is the luckiest person in the world. It’s very hurtful to be the parents of the by surprise. Such is your experience. Chaya extremely demanding parents, who “bad one.” Maybe some parents are blind did not start out as the type of child you raised him to serve them and do so with- to the faults of their own children. But assumed you would be gifted with, and she out complaints. Perhaps someone in his my husband and I see everything and we certainly did not mature into a young lady life was even a bit abusive to live with, so We worried whether see how awfully our daughter treats her that you can be proud of when it comes to husband. It puts us in a really difficult her treatment of her sweet husband. Continued on Page 33 once the romance was over he would see her for who she really is—and then run for his life.

My situation is the opposite, and I think probably much harder for a parent to deal with. My daughter has always been difficult. She is moody, self- involved, and really not the nicest person. Raising her was terribly difficult for me and my husband. Even as a young child, she was obstinate and would challenge just about everything we said. She is very bright and always had an answer for everything, and she would turn just about everything into a big deal. My husband and I have a good marriage, a respectful marriage. We are giving, con- siderate individuals, and it’s hard for me to understand where she even learned this behavior. My husband and I speak to one another in very loving and caring ways. So she definitely didn’t get it from us. When she started dating “Josh,” we were thrilled. He seemed like such a sweet, gentle young man. Just between you and me, my husband and I couldn’t understand why Josh was interested in “Chaya,” our daughter. True, Chaya is a real head-turner, so that never hurts. But we felt that Josh really didn’t know what he was getting into. But the two of them dated for close to a year, so we felt confident that Josh knew what Chaya was all about. In fact, we witnessed many arguments between them that kind of made us cringe. But Josh always came back for more. It was like he was under her spell. When they got engaged, we had mixed feelings. On the one hand, we were honest- ly relieved that someone was going to take Chaya off our hands. We were hoping and wishing that maybe being married would help her grow up and stop being so selfish. On the other hand, we were nervous. We worried about whether their marriage would last and whether once the romance was over he would see her for who she 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 31 the liquid evaporates. Choose low-sodium broth when possible. The stock is your first base of flavor. Heat it up in a saucepan, as warm stock will cook into the risotto more quickly and evenly. (If it is cold you will shock the rice, causing it to flake on the outside and stay hard at the core.) While the stock is heating up, sauté onions or shallots in a Making The Perfect Risotto heavy-bottomed pan. After they have soft- ened, add the rice and toast it in the pan. Once thought of as strictly a restaurant mushy. Long-grained rice won’t do, You’ll know it’s ready when the rice turns dish, risotto has made its way into the because the grains will stay separate. Any translucent at the edges. If the recipe calls home kitchen, proving itself to be versa- small, starchy grain, be it rice, pearl bar- for any wine, add it now to continue tile, delicious, and easy to make. Though ley, spelt, or even orzo pasta, can be building the flavor. thought to be a difficult dish, with con- cooked risotto-style for delicious results. Risotto is very sensitive to timing. This stant stirring and attention as part of the When cooking rice, the ratio is usually is why what is served in a restaurant, no process, it only takes one try at making two parts liquid to one part rice. With matter how good it is, will rarely display pay attention, and stir it more than occa- risotto to realize it is a much more risotto, since it is cooked uncovered on that rich texture and perfect doneness of sionally, but you don’t have to be a slave straightforward dish than you think. the stovetop, much more liquid evapo- a good homemade risotto. Though you to the stovetop. Making a good risotto takes a little bit of rates, so about three times as much liquid can’t just leave risotto on the stove and Take the time to prep your next ingre- practice in the beginning, but it’s easy to as rice is used. The liquid should be a forget about it, the instructions to stir dients, such as grated Parmesan, fresh get the hang of it. stock of some sort, either chicken, beef, constantly are often overstated. Add the herbs, or anything else you’re adding to If it’s called risotto, it must begin with or vegetable, as long as it adds good flavor stock a little at a time—half a cup, or the dish, between trips to the stove to stir. rice. Classically, Arborio rice is used to and matches the ingredients you’re put- about a ladleful—and add more stock The risotto is done when it’s just al make risotto because it is short and ting in the risotto. Canned stock or stock only when it is absorbed into the risotto. dente—firm but not crunchy to the plump, high in starch, and able to absorb from a carton is fine; just watch the salt Keep the burner just high enough to bare- tooth. It should be fluid and creamy quite a bit of liquid without becoming level—it can become overpowering as ly simmer the stock and risotto. You must rather than a solid scoopful when you serve it. Stir in the Parmesan cheese or anything else that you would like to add—steamed vegetable, sautéed mushrooms, or cooked chicken, meat, or fish. Stir in a pat of butter or butter substitute for extra richness; you might also want to stir in a little less than a quarter cup of heavy cream in addition to the butter. Once you’ve mastered preparing a risotto, you can play around with different flavor combinations to make your own version of the dish. The possibilities are endless.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto Ingredients: 8 cups broth (low sodium) 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 onion, diced, divided 2 garlic cloves, minced, divided 1 lb. fresh cremini or portobello mushrooms, sliced 2 bay leaves 2 Tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped 2 Tbsp. fresh Italian parsley, chopped 2 Tbsp. butter or butter substitute salt and pepper 1 oz. dried porcini mushrooms, wiped of grit and soaked in 1 cup of warm broth 2 cups Arborio rice 1/2 cup dry white wine 1/2 cup fresh Parmesan cheese, grated fresh parsley, for garnish Directions: Heat the broth in a medium saucepan and keep warm over low heat. Heat 1 table- spoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 onion and 1 clove garlic; cook, stirring, until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the fresh mushrooms, herbs, and butter. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until lightly browned, season with salt and pepper. Add the dried porcini mushrooms which were reconstituted in broth and then drained. Season again with salt and fresh cracked pepper. Sauté 1 minute then remove from heat and set aside. Coat a saucepan with remaining 2 table- spoons of oil. Sauté the remaining 1/2 onion and garlic clove. Add the rice and stir quickly until it is well-coated and opaque, 1 minute. Stir in wine and cook until it is nearly all evaporated. With a ladle, add 1 cup of the warm broth and cook, stirring, until the rice has absorbed the liquid. Add the remaining broth, 1 cup at a time. 32 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Continue to cook and stir, allowing the rice to absorb each addition of broth before s”xc adding more. The risotto should be slightly firm and creamy, not mushy. Transfer the mushrooms to the rice mixture. Stir in Parmesan cheese, and cook briefly until melted. Top with a drizzle of olive oil and chopped parsley before serving.

Eating quality, delicious meals is easy when all the work is done for you. Hire a personal chef to prepare your dinners, Shabbos meals, or small parties. For more information, contact Take Home Chef personal chef services by calling 516-596- 8865, writing to [email protected], or visiting www.TakeHomeChef.net.

MINDBIZ Continued from Page 31 being in an abusive situation feels comfortable for him, since it is all he knows. This can often explain why people marry difficult spouses. If that is a viable explanation for Josh’s compliance in the dynamics of his marriage, then perhaps he isn’t as miserable as you believe. If and when he decides that his marriage is unbearable, it will be his responsibility to get help and work toward a normal marriage. But it’s not your place to tell him to stand up to his wife, because he probably wouldn’t listen to you anyway. As far as talking to your daughter, you need to ask yourself how much success you had all those years when she was growing up. Not much, from what you’ve told me. Why would that change now? As far as your feelings, yes it is very hurtful and it is very embarrassing. Your in-laws may very likely feel some anger toward Chaya and, by default, toward you and your husband as well. There is little you can do to change their feelings. Should they ever bring it up to you, at that point you might want to validate their concern and assure them that if there was a way for you to fix the problem, you’d jump at the opportunity. But unfortunately, you do not have that power. In the meantime, continue to be the best mother and mother-in-law that you know how to be. Ultimately, the people closest to us will judge us on how we live our lives, and not hold us responsible for adult family members who choose an undesir- able path. We do the best we can and at some point are forced to let go, and we hope that the messages we’ve instilled in our children are buried somewhere inside their heads and hearts and will resurface someday. Esther

Esther Mann, LMSW, is a therapist and life coach in Lawrence. Esther can be reached at 516-314- 2295 or [email protected]. She works with individuals and couples.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 33 Defining Death (MCS), estimated to be ten perk up to MCS or higher states. Such “dead” people with puls- that, in 2004, Dr. Mark Boucek, a Continued from Page 30 times as prevalent as the more All that should be sufficient es—sometimes brain-damaged pediatric cardiologist at Denver recognized vegetative one. And, to give pause to would-be plug- but not necessarily meeting the Children’s Hospital, decided to Owen of Cambridge, who ana- Dr. Vox maintains, “about one- pullers. But a variety of fac- criteria of “brain death”—who write a “far more aggressive lyzed the real-time brain activity third of the time, ‘vegetative’ tors—most notably, perhaps, are assisted in their breathing by DCD protocol,” revising the five- of a young woman in a vegeta- patients are minimally con- the shortage of organs for trans- a machine are candidates for minute rule down to three min- tive state five months after a car scious or even better.” plantation—is pushing some “donation after cardiac death” utes. Then, when that didn’t accident. Utilizing digital pro- In November 2008, using physicians to consider a life (DCD). Where that procedure is yield the desired results, he re- cessing of EEG readings that EEG readings, Dr. Steven ended, even if it hasn’t yet been chosen, the patient’s breathing revised it to just over a minute. reveal unique, reproducible sig- Laureys, a neurologist at the fully lived. tube is removed in an operating “Doctors have created a new nals, he reported in 2006 in University of Liege in Belgium, Writing recently in the New room. If breathing ceases natu- class of potential organ donors Science that the patient, whose demonstrated that some low- York Times Magazine, Dr. rally and the heart stops within who are not dead but dying,” only visible response to the level MCS patients were able to Darshak Sanghavi, chief of pedi- an hour, five minutes are count- writes Dr. Sanghavi. “By arbitrar- external world was occasionally follow basic instructions— atric cardiology at the University ed off. The interval is not based ily drawing a line between fixating on an object, was able to counting familiar and unfamil- of Massachusetts Medical on any research; it was the best- death and life—five minutes follow complex commands with iar names played randomly into School, asserts that medical pro- guess decision of a panel of after the heart stops—they [doc- her mind, imagining playing ten- headphones. fessionals “have handled [the] experts in 1997. If the heart does tors] have raised difficult ethical nis and walking through the And, at the Moss Rehab- paradoxical situation” that an not resume beating by the five- questions. Are they merely rooms of her home. Owen found ilitation Research Institute, Dr. organ donor must be dead but minute buzzer, the patient is acknowledging death or hasten- similarly remarkable results in at John Whyte is studying the seem- the needed organ alive “by fash- declared legally dead and his ing it in their zeal to save others’ least three other patients. ingly paradoxical fact that the ioning a category of people with organs harvested—despite dem- lives?” He leaves the question There is, moreover, also a sedative Ambien apparently caus- beating hearts” to be regarded onstrable brain activity. hanging in the air. “minimally conscious state” es some vegetative patients to “as if they had rigor mortis.” Dr. Sanghavi reports further In the eyes of Judaism, every moment of human life, even compromised human life, is beyond value, and Jewish law for- bids hastening a person’s death to any degree. There is some contro- versy about whether halachah considers brain death to constitute death. But no halachic authority permits the withdrawal of life support from a patient whose brain is merely damaged. The world’s human population is indeed at a turning point. Because whether or not carbon- emission-born catastrophe in fact looms, modern medicine’s defining of death downward is clearly upon us. O

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34 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The Shmuz On The Parashah

Emunah And Bitachon don’t compare to them. They trusted Me, B Y R’ BEN TZION SHAFIER but you aren’t on their level.” Moshe was the greatest human being. And Moshe returned to Hashem and The Rambam calls Moshe the “father” in said, “Hashem, why have You done evil to Torah and wisdom. He was the greatest of this people? Why have You sent me?” all prophets. One of our Thirteen —Sh’mos 5:22 Principles of Faith is that Moshe was the Hashem sent Moshe Rabbeinu to be greatest of all nevi’im, greater than those the redeemer of the Jewish people. who came before him and those who However, from the moment that he would come after. Since we know that embarked on this mission, the slavery Moshe was greater than even the Avos, became more intense and the pain more how can we understand this Gemara? It is profound. Out of love for his nation, clearly telling us that Avraham, Yitzchak, Moshe turned to Hashem and said, “Why and Yaakov were superior to Moshe. have You worsened the situation? Why The difference between emunah and have You sent me?” bitachon. The answer seems to lie in the The Gemara tells us that Moshe was basic distinction between emunah and punished for questioning Hashem. bitachon. The Rambam defines emunah Hashem commented, “It is a shame that as the knowledge that Hashem created that which is lost can no longer be and continues to run all of Creation. found.” It is as if Hashem were saying, Simply put, nothing can exist and no “They don’t make them like they used to. activity can occur without Hashem. Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, those were great people—but no more. Moshe, you Continued on Page 36

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 35 THE SHMUZ protected from Hashem’s wrath. Continued from Page 35 Clearly, Pharaoh understood the power of Hashem. He realized that Bitachon, however, is quite different. Hashem watches over the world. He also The Chovos HaL’vavos defines bitachon as understood that Hashem acts with jus- trusting in Hashem. It is a sense of relying tice. Pharaoh had no problem with emu- on Hashem to watch over and protect nah, but he sure didn’t trust in me, as if to say, “I take my heavy burden Hashem—he rebelled. He had emunah, and place it on Hashem.” While I am but no bitachon. responsible to be proactive, I am not in Growing in emunah. Both emunah and charge of the outcome, and I am not the bitachon are based on relating to the determinant of the results. I rely on world in a deeper manner. Emunah is the Hashem to care for me. understanding that Hashem is involved in Emunah is a state of understanding; more than just the big-picture issues: life bitachon is a state of trust. Emunah and death, war and famine . . . Hashem is means knowing that Hashem is involved in the minutiae of my daily life. involved in every activity on the planet; Hashem is there with me, 24/7, 365, all day, bitachon means trusting in Hashem in every day, from morning to night. every situation. Imagine that I am walking alone on a A person might have emunah and not cold February night, and a car pulls up bitachon. Pharaoh was a classic example. alongside me. Three thugs jump out, and When threatened by the Jewish overpop- one holds a gun to my head. My level of ulation of his land, Pharaoh’s solution emunah will determine how clearly I see was to throw the baby boys into the Nile. that my fate is not in the hands of some The Midrash explains that this wasn’t a drug-crazed kid, but rather on the decree flippant reaction—it was highly calculat- that Hashem made for me that previous ed. Pharaoh knew that Hashem promised Rosh Hashanah. Amazingly, I can have Noach that He wouldn’t bring another this understanding and yet lack a level of flood. He also knew that Hashem pays trust in Hashem. back “measure for measure.” Therefore, Bitachon requires understanding the Pharaoh determined that Hashem would goodness of Hashem. To truly rely on want to bring a flood to retaliate against Hashem, there are two additional criteria: the Egyptians for drowning the babies, I must know that Hashem loves me more but because of Hashem’s promise to Noach, that couldn’t happen, so he felt Continued on Page 38

36 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 37 THE SHMUZ Continued from Page 36 than I love myself, and I must know that Hashem knows better than I do what is for my good. After recognizing that Hashem is involved in every action that occurs on this planet, I still must focus on the reality that I am a mortal with limited sight and understanding. That which may appear to be in my best interests may not really be so. That which I deeply desire may actually be to my detriment, whether in this world or the World to Come. Bitachon is predicated upon knowing that Hashem has my best interests in mind and that He knows better than I what is for my good. When a person real- izes this, and then takes his heavy load and transfers it to Hashem, that is bitachon. The answer. True, Moshe was greater in emunah; but the Avos were greater in bitachon. Moshe Rabbeinu was on a higher level of emunah than any other human being, then or since. He saw Hashem with an absolute clarity. Just as we see a piece of wood in front of us as undeniably real, he saw Hashem right there. But absolute trust in Hashem does- n’t necessarily follow. Bitachon is something that is learned, something that is practiced. Much like a character trait that one develops over many years, one learns, often through life experiences, to utterly trust in the kindness of Hashem. Apparently, the Avos reached a higher level in this regard. They had an unwa- vering sense of the constant goodness and loving kindness of Hashem; hence, they were able to be more trusting of Hashem even when, on the surface, there were many questions to be asked. Moshe was greater in emunah, while they were greater in bitachon. Stop playing god. This distinction has great relevance. Often our problems with faith come from this one issue: we have emunah, but not bitachon. We know that Hashem runs the world, but we play god. We assume we have the big picture all worked out. I know exactly what I need, exactly what is good for me, and for some reason Hashem just won’t go along with the program. I know what type of job I need. I know what type of person I need to marry. I know what schools my kids should get into. And for some reason, Hashem just won’t follow along with my wisdom. The quantum leap forward in bitachon comes when I sit down and ask myself, “How much do I really know?” How often have I assumed that one course of action would be for the best, and I was proved wrong? How much do I truly understand about my inner needs and my nature, what I really need to be happy? How well do I know what is ultimately best for the interests of my spouse and my children, their needs, and their future? When one comes to the core understanding that Hashem is more concerned for one’s own good than he himself is, and that Hashem knows his needs better, he comes to a different degree of trust, a different level of relying on Hashem. He comes to true bitachon. O

The Shmuz, an engaging and motivating Torah lecture that deals with real-life issues, is available free at www.TheShmuz.com. The Shmuz on the Parsha book, a compilation on all of Chumash, is now available for purchase in your local sefarim store and at The Shmuz.com. 38 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 39 financing related to real estate is until the spring or summer, in going to cost more. hopes that home prices would Now we all know that the buzz start rising by then. But if inter- in the media has in the past not est rates go up, not only will always been right on the money, home prices not go up with and many of their forecasts rather them, but some buyers might be than coming to fruition have priced out of the marketplace changed direction and veered once again, leading to even less onto different paths. But if in fact of a buyer pool available than Real Estate 2010 Forecasts this one turns out to be correct exists presently. and interest rates are rising, the Again, forecasts are just This is a week where no mat- these low interest rates for and doom, all you guys have to time has come for anyone sitting that—predictions; they certain- ter where we go, the subject of granted over the last year, do is turn on the television or out the real-estate market and ly are not directions written in the day is “New Year’s resolu- believing that they are here to look in the newspaper to read waiting for prices to drop even stone. On the other hand, they tions” or “forecasts for the com- stay forever and that everyone the forecast for where interest more to stand up and take notice. are typically estimates created ing year 2010.” Now, listening to buying and selling can take their rates are heading. Buyers looking to squeeze out by financial professionals who this over and over is really Interest rates have fallen and any possible more drops in hous- are proficient in these areas and enough to make you crazy, if all stayed comfortably in the high 4 ing prices may find that even if should not be shunted aside you are really looking for is percent range for a while now. they find a deal with a little bit without a good deal of thought. some quiet music or some really If interest rates go Many people have taken advan- more of a concession in sales Does that mean a stronger or good entertainment with a cou- up, some buyers tage of those rates to either buy a price, the interest rate they then weaker buying and selling real- ple of laughs. But for this partic- new home or refinance their exist- have to contend with might dry estate market to come in the new ular year there are some impor- might be priced ing mortgage and bring down up any savings realized from year of 2010? I guess we will all tant changes on the horizon in out of the their rates, resulting in lower pay- waiting for that extra little bit have to wait and see! O residential real estate that are ments. What some have not they negotiated in their purchase creeping their way in as we noticed in the last few weeks of price. Not only that, but the end Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and marketplace once is a licensed real-estate broker and a speak, and they should be taken December is that the rates have result may be that their costs are licensed N.Y.S. mortgage broker with into consideration with earnesty again. started to creep back up—they are higher than before. over 20 years of experience, offering full-service residential and commercial for anyone looking to sell or buy now in the mid 5 percent range. Sellers also have to consider real-estate services (Anessa V Cohen in the immediate future. The talk on the street is that prob- how the possible rise in interest Realty) and mortgaging services (First First and foremost, the one time getting the best deal that ably by March or April the rates rates will affect the sale of their Meridian Mortgage) in the Five Towns and throughout the tri-state area. She thing that this recession has they can. I am sorry to say it, will not only go up some more, home. Some sellers may have can be reached at 516-569-5007 or via blessed us with is low interest folks: the time is running out on but there is a good chance that the been waiting out the drops in her website, www.AVCrealty.com. Readers are encouraged to send rates. Interestingly, both buyers that concept. And if you think Feds will start slowly raising the pricing by holding off putting questions or comments to and sellers have seemed to take that I am just spouting gloom prime rate—which means all their homes on the marketplace [email protected].

40 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION Putting Passion On A Mantel

BY RABBI MORDECHAI K AMENETZKY

In this week’s Torah portion, Moshe is charged by the Al-mighty with the responsibility to get the Children of Israel out of Egypt and lead them to the Promised Land. Moshe tries every which way to absolve himself of the charge. He insists he is not the right man to talk to Pharaoh. He worries that the people will not believe him. He claims that he has trouble speaking. The Ribbono shel Olam, the Master of the Universe, does not take no for an answer. As a last resort, Moshe beseeches his Creator: “Send the one who is usually sent” (Sh’mos 4:13). Moshe was referring to his older brother Aharon, who preceded him as the prophet and representative of the Children of Israel. Moshe protested his own selection, intoning that even if he indeed was worthy, his appointment would upset his older brother.

We make light of these behaviors because we do not realize the greatness of the act.

But the Master of all emotion and thought knew better. “The wrath of Hashem burned against Moshe and He said, ‘Aharon your brother, the Levi? I know that he will surely speak; moreover, behold, he is going out to meet you and when he sees you he will rejoice in his heart” (ibid., v.14). Not only would Aharon not bear hard feelings towards Moshe, he’d rejoice in his heart. In the Midrash on the Book of Rus, Rabbi Yitzchak bar Merion adds a fascinating insight that begs explanation: “If Aharon had only known that the Torah would write ‘he will greet you and rejoice in his heart,’ then Aharon would not just have greeted Moshe with heartfelt joy, he would have gone to meet him with drums and dancing.” It’s not the first time in the Torah where Rabbi Yitzchak comments on intention. In Bereishis, Reuven persuades his brothers not to kill their brother Yosef, but rather to put him in a pit. The Torah elucidates his true intent: “Reuven said to them, ‘Do not commit bloodshed. Throw him into this pit which is in the wilderness, and do not lay a hand on him.’ [His intent was] to rescue him from their hands, to bring him back to his father” (Bereishis 37:22). Rabbi Yitzchak comments: “If Reuven had known that the Torah was going to write that his true intent was to save Yosef from the hands

Continued on Page 42 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 41 On A Mantel Continued from Page 41 of his brothers and return him to his father, [he would not have had him put in a pit]; rather, he would have put Yosef on his shoulders and brought him to his father.” What does Rabbi Yitzchak mean? Was Aharon a seeker of fortune or fame? If he knew that the paparazzi (l’havdil) would have broadcast his joy, is it possible to say that only then would he have greeted Moshe with pomp and circumstance? Is fame the defining factor? If Moshe was worthy of greeting with a band and entourage, then what difference does it make whether or not the Torah revealed Aharon’s true joy upon his younger brother Moshe’s ele- vation to power? Should it make a difference to Reuven whether or not the Torah would reveal his true intentions? Indeed, sending Yosef into a pit was really a ploy. His intent was to come back and free him. If he had known that the Torah would write it, why would he have had the conviction to defy his brothers and carry Yosef home on his shoulders? I was bothered by this Midrash for many years, until I saw the following anecdote. In no way do I compare the per- sonae to the great forebears of our nation, but I learned something from the attitude that I think may explain the words of Rabbi Yitzchak bar Merion. NNN By all accounts, New York Yankee Mickey Mantle was an epic baseball player. In his 18 years as a player, he won three American League MVP titles, played in 16 All-Star games, won a pennant twelve times, and won seven World Series. He holds records for most World Series home runs (18), RBIs (40), runs (42), walks (43), extra-base hits (26), and total bases (123). He is also the career leader in walk-off home runs. I guess you could say that he was pretty good at what he was paid to do. After he retired in 1968, the press made a big com- motion about a player who hit 40 home runs and had 40 stolen bases in one season. It was considered a tremendous feat, as players who possess the power to hit 40 home runs usually do not have nearly the speed needed to steal 40 bases, and vice versa. Reading accolades about the accomplishment, Mantle is alleged to have said, “[Shucks!*] If I had known that it’s such a big deal, I would have done it a bunch of times myself!” [*According to some sources, Mr. Mantle did not use the word ‘shucks.’] NNN There are certain acts in life that we think are natural and meaningless. We make light of 42 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION these behaviors because we do not realize the greatness of the act. Aharon thought it was natural to greet a younger brother’s rise to power with joy and did not realize how great an act it was considered in the eyes of the Al-mighty. Oh! Had he only known how important such joy is, even if it was “the natural” thing to do for him! He would have embel- lished his expression with trumpets and a marching band! A friend once told me that he knew of a certain professional who had a child that was ill. Once a week my friend would scribble a cheerful note on a scrap of paper and leave it in the office of this man. My friend was by no means a skilled counselor, and the notes were just a means of saying “I am thinking about you.” When one week he received a giant bouquet from the family thank- ing him for the tremendous support, my friend felt sick. He told me, “A bouquet of flowers—just for scribbled notes. If I knew it meant so much to them, I would have taken the time to neatly write an entire paragraph on a proper piece of stationery!” A warm smile, a cheerful greeting, a joyous welcome may come naturally to us. But if we only knew the wonderful ramifications of what often comes to us naturally, we would not perform with ret- icence or reserve; rather, we would proudly place our fervor on a mantel. O

And Yosef died, and all his brothers, and all that generation (Sh’mos 1:6) Yosef, who lived 110 years, was the shortest-lived of the brothers; Levi, who lived 137, was the longest- lived. Hence, the enslavement of Israel, which began after Levi’s death, was no longer than 116 years (the period from Levi’s passing to the Exodus), and no shorter than 86, the age of Miriam at the time of the Exodus (Miriam, meaning “bitterness,” was so named on account of the bitterness of the exile). (Seder Olam) “Loathe positions of authority” (Pirkei Avos, 1:10), for they bury those who hold them.Was not Yosef among the youngest of his brothers? Yet he was the first of them to die. (Avos d’Rabbi Nasan)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 43 Israel Advocacy Program Coming For more information about the To Flatbush, January 10 January 10 program in Flatbush, or to The National Council of Young Israel, learn how you can bring this program the Young Israel of Flatbush, and the to your community, contact NCYI David Project will present Director of Programming Rebbetzin “Understanding the Mideast Conflict and Judi Steinig at 212-929-1525 or e-mail ‘The Forgotten Refugees’ Radical Islam [email protected]. O and Iran Advocacy Training: Responding to the 30-Second Sound Byte.” The pro- JCC January Events gram will take place on Sunday, January The JCC of the Greater Five Towns has a 10, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at the Young central location in Cedarhurst at 207 Israel of Flatbush, 1012 Avenue I in Grove Avenue and several satellite loca- Brooklyn. The program is free of charge tions around the community. The central and is open to all. phone number is 516-569-6733. The January 10 program is part of the Ongoing Events renowned Israel advocacy series, Cards and Friendship Group. Come “Winning the War of Words: Become an alone or bring a friend for a fun after- Effective Advocate for Israel,” which is noon at the JCC. Enjoy meeting new peo- presented by the NCYI and the David ple, good conversation, and challenging Project. Participants will learn about games. Every Wednesday, 1:00–3:00 p.m. the skills and strategies needed to be For further information, please call Lisa effective advocates for Israel in their Stern (ext. 209). schools, places of employment, and Come Alive Program at Sons of Israel in communities. The program will focus Woodmere. This program provides an on the education and training neces- opportunity for homebound older adults sary to properly combat the wave of to participate in social, recreational, and anti-Semitism that has resulted from intellectual activities. Kosher lunch will the Arab-Israeli conflict. be provided and door-to-door transporta- To register for the January 10 program, tion is available on a limited basis. For call the National Council of Young Israel at further information, please call Mary 212-929-1525 ext. 100 or visit www.youngis- rael.org/content/yiadvocacy.cfm. Continued on Page 46

44 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION

Chabad Pre-School Chanukah Fun

Singing and dancing with Sholom Jacobs. Decorating sufganiot. Yum!

Creating works of art. Face Painting with Morah Karen.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 45 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS 7:00–8:30 p.m. This seminar will provide Continued from Page 44 an overview of what LinkedIn is and how to use it for your job search. For further Sheffield (ext. 219) or Linda Balch (ext. 211). information please call ext. 213. Parkinson’s Support Group. The pur- Single and Strong. A support group for pose of this group is to bring together women who are divorced or separated Parkinsonians and their spouses and fam- going through tough economic times. ilies, to help them better understand the The group meets Thursdays 10:00-11:00 nature of the condition, gain confidence, a.m. Pre-registration is required. For fur- and join in community activities. For further information and/or to register ther information, please contact Cathy please call ext. 213. This program is fund- Byrne (ext. 220). ed by Connect to Care, a UJA-Federation Remember When. This program is of NY initiative. O especially designed for memory enhancement and socialization. The Flatbush Basketball League, cost includes a full range of therapeutic Week 7 Recap activities, morning beverage, dessert, Freidman’s Market 46, Aura Electric 41. and kosher lunch. Round-trip, door-to- Freidman’s continues to roll—winning door, handicapped-accessible trans- their fifth straight against a winless and portation is available on a limited basis. depleted Aura squad who put up a good Registration is limited, on a first-come, fight. Yoel Suntag had 18 including some first-served basis. big shots down the stretch. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) group at Subsational 53, Jerry Meyers’ Studio Sons of Israel in Woodmere. The goal is to 41. With Studio’s AJ out of the lineup offer a safe haven where clients and fami- Mordy Reiser ended any chances of a ly members feel accepted for who they Meyer win with a solid second half. He are. Takes place on Wednesdays. For fur- totaled 34 for the game. Joseph Cohen ther information, please contact Lisa had 25 for Studio. Barnett (ext. 210) or Chana Pfeifer (ext. 213). Flamin Burger 56, Boro Rug and Upcoming Events Carpet 53. Boro looked solid and well on New Bereavement Support Group. their way to their first win when Yitzy Scheduled for eight consecutive Mondays, Richter hit his seventh three of the 11:00 a.m.–12:15 p.m., starting February 1. game, but Flamin proved too tough Sessions will be held at Temple Israel in down the stretch. Amiel Benjamin Lawrence, 140 Central Avenue in pumped in 27. Lawrence. The fee is $50. Pre-registration is Printing Factory 71, Global Leasing 26. required. For further information and/or After their loss to Subsational, Printing to register, please call ext. 209. looks back on track to being one of the Career Strategies Seminar, in connec- league’s elite with a blowout win as four tion with UJA Federation of New York’s players scored in double figures. They Connect-To-Care. Monday, January 11, sport a 5-1 record.

46 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES HEALTH SECTION Lobos 43, Five Towns Jewish Avrohom Gross from Mountain The Heimishe Rest Stop Times 39. Lobos came in want- Food which will help Judaica Under the direction of its ing to avenge their earlier loss to get back on track. mara d’asra, Rav Tzvi Berkowitz, 5TJT and they did just that. Quality Carpet 47, TSI the Rockwood Park Jewish Lobos opened up a 12 point lead Exterior 33. Quality got their Center will be opening the in the fourth. The Tepfer broth- first win as Dovid Beer dropped Heimishe Rest Stop in the shul. ers were able to hit some shots in 18 and newly acquired Ushie The shul is located along the Belt to make it close but time wasn’t Friedman added 15. Binyomin Parkway, Exit 17 or 17S, Cross Bay on their side as Lobos pulled it Lipschutz had 18 in the loss. Boulevard, one short exit from out. They sit atop the division After starting the season 3-0, TSI JFK Airport. The rest stop will tied with two other teams at 4-1. has dropped the last 4 straight. feature parking in the shul lot, Jewish Press 46, Creative A full schedule of games daily fresh milchig sandwiches, Lighting 38. Ephraim Brodie and resumes this Motzaei Shabbos. refreshments, chalav Yisrael, and Tzvi Moller had 17 and 15 for Follow your favorite team right the use of the shul for davening, Jewish Press who climbed to 5-2 here in your favorite Jewish with their third straight. Flatbush Basketball`s Printing Factory sits atop the division at 5–1. newspaper. O Continued on Page 48 Creative had three players with 8, but it wasn’t enough. Mountain Food Jr. 44, Midwood Lumber 28. Everyone thought Lumber would be Food’s greatest challenge for a perfect season, but at 7-0 and a convincing victory, Food looks well on their way. Avrohom Yosef Gross had 11 for The Food. Adam Motovitch returned with 22 in the loss. Lazer Marble 43, Schreiber’s Bakery 37. Speaking of unbeat- en, with two key players on the sideline with injuries Lazer jumped to 7-0 after winning one that was tight late into the fourth. Netanel Havlin led Lazer with 17. Harrico Pharmacy 32, Judaica Place 21. Chesky Schwartz scored 12 as Harrico kept Judaica in last place. In a late trade, Judaica acquired high scoring

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES HEALTH SECTION January 8, 2010 47 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS special occasions before, but none so Continued from Page 47 heartwarming and inspiring as this one. Mazal is the sister in law of Aliza, so this learning, and board rooms available for celebration is also a personal expression meetings and indoor sports activities. This of appreciation. “It is our greatest pleas- program will initially be available Sunday ure,” says Mazal, “to host a special celebra- through Thursday evenings, 5:00–8:00 tion such as this one.” p.m. The shul has a daily minyan for Friends and family gathered together Shacharis and Minchah-Maariv along at Orchidea to show their support and to with a beis medrash fully stocked with wish both women well. Leah’s friends sefarim. For further information, contact were thrilled to see her glowing with hap- Rav Berkowitz at 718-641-5822. O piness and beaming with pride. “She’s just an amazing person,” says Mindy. “We’re Orchidea Restaurant Hosts all really proud.” Aliza’s husband called Inspirational Meeting Between Leah a “malach min shamayim” and says Kidney Transplant Donor and that his entire family feels tremendous Recipient “hakaras hatov.” By Malky Lowinger Renewal’s president, Sendy Ornstein, Leah is a young, vibrant wife and welcomed the guests, noting that mother living in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Aliza Happy meeting between kidney donor and recipient matched up by Renewal. Renewal has already been instrumental is a middle-aged grandmother of 26 living in 26 kidney transplant procedures since in Bnei Brak. The two might never have its inception just three years ago. “Baruch met except for the fact that Aliza was ill obtain a kidney for those in need of a victim of kidney failure, Aliza knew that Hashem,” he says, “many others are com- and desperately in need of a kidney trans- transplant procedure. her days were numbered if she would not ing forth to donate. There are no words to plant in order to survive. Leah was deter- About a year ago, Leah contacted receive a transplant sometime soon. describe this tremendous mitzvah.” He mined to be a donor and to save someone Renewal. Her own mother, Rochel bas Baruch Hashem, a call came in from also thanked Leah’s husband and family else’s life. And that’s how these two brave Moshe, a’h, had passed away several Renewal several months ago. A match for supporting her throughout. women formed an indelible bond. years ago from kidney disease. Leah had had been found. Aliza and her husband To continue the momentum, Rabbi On Tuesday evening, Leah and Aliza wanted to donate to her back then, but were on their way to New York’s Ornstein revealed that Aliza’s son Ariel is met for the very first time at Orchidea, an unfortunately by the time the screening Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center scheduled to donate his own kidney to upscale dairy restaurant located on 12th process was completed, her mother was for surgery. another recipient (the surgery was Avenue and 49th Street in Boro Park. not considered a good candidate for sur- About three weeks ago, the surgery scheduled for Tuesday, January 5). Smiling broadly, they embraced warmly. gery. Ever since then, Leah had dreamed was successfully performed. Both the Having witnessed the miracle in his own Neither one of them said very much at of donating a kidney to another Jewish donor and the recipient recovered nicely. family, he is determined to do the same that special moment. They didn’t have to. woman l’iluy nishmas her own wonder- Within two weeks Leah was back at work for someone else. Their emotions spoke volumes. ful mother. “I just felt,” says Leah, “that and Aliza had a new lease on life. In Assemblyman Dov Hikind attended The transplant was facilitated by an if I couldn’t do it for her, I would at least honor of the occasion, a seudas hoda’ah the event saying that he felt fortunate to organization called Renewal, under the do it for someone else’s mother or was held at Orchidea. be there. “To be in Orchidea with Ofer direction of Rabbi Menachem Friedman. grandmother.” Mazal Wercberger and Ofer Kohen are and Mazal is always a pleasure,” he said, Renewal assists patients in a variety of Meanwhile, Aliza and her family were proprietors of the elegant and sophisti- “but tonight more so than ever.” ways but their ultimate goal is to help anxious about her medical prognosis. A cated Orchidea. They have hosted many Assemblyman Hikind said that “the

48 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES HEALTH SECTION

most important thing to me is the have serious kashrus problems.” chesed. In spite of all our problems, we in SKS, which has pioneered kashrus the Jewish community, the average peo- supervision in the Orient for nearly two ple, perform acts of chesed that are decades, has expanded its services unsurpassed.” He called Leah “a leader of throughout China, Vietnam, India, and Klal Yisrael” who “sets an example for the beyond to insure that kosher consumers rest of us.” will be able to truly enjoy a variety of Mazal’s husband also offered his good enticing dried fruits during their Tu wishes, saying that he knows firsthand B’Shevat celebrations. about “the angst and the stress” that For more information about SKS, write Aliza’s family were going through as to [email protected] or visit their mother’s kidney continued to dete- www.skskosher.com. O riorate. All that changed when they heard about Leah’s offer to donate a kid- NYS Yeshiva Administrators Meet ney. “This mitzvah is strictly l’shem With Assemblyman Hikind To Lay (L-R): Rabbi Heshie Dembitzer, Rabbi Shia Hecht, Rabbi Meir Weinberger, Assemblyman Dov shamayim,” he said. Out Plans For 2010 Hikind, Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel, Rabbi Yeruchem Shapiro, Rabbi Shmuel Lefkowitz, Rabbi Aliza’s husband, R’ Shmuel, a respected On December 31, key leaders and admin- Aron Langsam, Rabbi Zalman Gombo, Rabbi Yitzchok Gottdeiner, and Rabbi Naftali Klagsbrun. Torah scholar in Bnei Brak, spoke pas- istrators of major yeshivas in New York sionately about Leah’s incredible mitz- State met for almost two hours with New vah. He and his family presented her with York State Assemblyman Dov Hikind at his the rate for afterschool vouchers was dis- has shown his commitment over the a beautiful gift, a stunning silver cande- Albany office to plan for the coming year. cussed, as was the commuter tax, the cut years as an advocate for non-public labra, as a token of appreciation. He also The first priority of the group, accord- in student Metrocards, transportation schools, insisting that they receive the expressed his deep gratitude to Renewal ing to Rabbi Shmuel Lefkowitz, Agudath issues, Title I, and other topics. fair share of government support to for helping them every step of the way. Israel of America’s vice president for com- Assemblyman Hikind’s district, Rabbi which they are entitled.” Also in attendance was the Dinover munity affairs, was making sure that the Lefkowitz noted, encompasses a large Agudath Israel executive vice president Rebbe from Williamsburg, as well as 2010-11 state budget includes items that number of citizens whose highest priori- Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel was also in Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, who came to have been funded for many years like ty is their children’s education. And, the honor Leah. Rabbi Goldwasser offered CAP and Mandated Services. The cut in Agudath Israel representative added, “Dov Continued on Page 50 strong words of chizuk to Leah and everyone in attendance. He also joined in the saying of Nishmas often said at a seudas hoda’ah. As for Leah, she says she is “on a high” from this entire experience. The sense of achievement and triumph that comes from saving the life of a fellow Jew is something that cannot be put into words. She was the gracious guest of honor all night long, perhaps even a little bit embarrassed by all the fuss and attention, even heard saying “I’m just a regular woman from Flatbush.” The elegant Orchidea, she feels, was the perfect venue for spreading the word about kidney donation to the community at large. “If it will help even one person decide to do this mitzvah and save someone’s life,” she says, “that would be wonderful.” What a beautiful way to pay tribute to the memory of her beloved mother. For more information, contact Renewal at 718-431-9831, e-mail mfried- [email protected], or visit www.Renewal.org. O

New Kashrus Challenges For Tu B’Shevat Delicacies As the Tu B’Shevat consumer market has expanded to include a never-ending variety of delectable dried fruit selec- tions, so has the challenge for kashrus supervisors to travel all over the globe to see and inspect the various factories that produce these delicacies. According to Rabbi David Moskowitz, the founder and chief kashrus supervisor for the fast-growing Shatz Kosher Services (SKS), all packaged and non-packaged dried fruit products need formal supervision. “Today’s marketplace features well-known dried fruits, as well as exotic varieties from all over the world including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Turkey,” he revealed. “These are countries which have recognized the enormous potential of the mainstream and kosher markets. However, we have discovered that dried fruits from these countries need to be inspected because of bugs and other insects that have been found in various products. In addition, some dried fruits such as banana chips, raisins, and dried plums are sometimes fried in or coated with oils, whose origins might 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 49 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS stood proudly as they read the Education Funding Com- Continued from Page 49 hadran for the second time on mission to “consider the chal- Masechtas Bava Basra. That’s a lenges non-public school chil- attendance at the meeting. The total of 350 blatt learned—a dren face, identify their educa- yeshiva representatives present tremendous kiddush Hashem! tional needs, and make recom- were: Rabbi Heshie Dembitzer All of these bachurim, and many mendations on how available (Bobov), Rabbi Zalman Gombo others who were chazering, resources can be best utilized to (Pupa), Rabbi Yitzchok learn Bava Basra during their enhance educational opportuni- Gottdeiner (Yeshiva Torah own free time, as they are busy ties in New Jersey.” Vodaath), Rabbi Shia Hecht with the yeshiva’s current As an accomplished business- (Belz), Rabbi Naftali Klagsbrun masechta, Bava Kamma. To cele- man, he is surely well informed (Satmar), Rabbi Aron Langsam brate, the bachurim and their of the writings of the late world- (Belz), Rabbi Shmuel Lefkowitz, parents and b’nei hayeshiva renowned economist Dr. Milton Rabbi Yeruchem Shapiro (Bais rejoiced all together and danced Friedman on free enterprise and Yaakov of Boro Park), and Rabbi Annual siyum at Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. late into the night. O competition—the engine that Meir Weinberger (Yeshiva drives our economy. Friedman Chasan Sofer). O Citizen Groups Call For applies this to education. Rockaway. The annual chazarah largest masechta in Shas! Since Equal Educational “Government ownership and YFR Siyum siyum was approaching. The the beginning of the year, many Opportunity For Every Child operation of schools alter funda- By Aharon Cohen question was: will there be peo- people were trying hard to keep Governor Jon Corzine, less mentally the way the industry is A tradition hewn in stone ple finishing? After all, the up with the tough one-and-a- than one month prior to leaving organized. In most industries, was put to the test this past masechta being reviewed was half blatt a day schedule. This office, signed an Executive consumers are free to buy the week at the Yeshiva of Far Bava Basra. At 175 blatt, it is the past Thursday night, eight boys Order creating the Non-Public product from anyone who offers it for sale, at a price mutually agreed on. In the process, consumers determine how much is produced and by whom, and producers have an incentive to satisfy their customers. These competitive private industries are organized from the bottom up. They have been responsible for truly remarkable economic growth, improvements in products, and increased efficiency in production.” [www.insideronline .org/archives/2006/spring/chap4 .pdf] He recommends a school voucher system. “The prescrip- tion is clear. Change the organization of elementary and secondary schooling from top- down to bottom-up. Convert to a system in which parents choose the schools their children attend—or, more broadly, the educational services their children receive, whether in a brick-and-mortar school, on DVDs, over the Internet, or whatever alternative the inge- nuity of man can conceive. Parents would pay for educational services with whatever subsidy they receive from the government plus whatever sum they want to add out of their own resources. Producers would be free to enter or leave the industry and would compete to attract students. As in other industries, such a competitive free market would lead to improvements in quality and reductions in cost.” Had Governor Corzine instituted such a funding system in the four disaster districts that fall under the jurisdiction of the State of New Jersey—Camden, Jersey City, Newark, and Paterson—we would not be facing a $9.5 billion deficit. Nor would our children be forced to suffer in schools where learning is almost non-existent. [www .thecartelmovie.com] Thankfully, the voters of New Jersey have spoken. Chris Christie, who assured us of his support for parental choice in education, was elected despite being outspent three to one. 50 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION What we need to avoid at all costs is a drop-outs. Guests of Honor Meira and Jacob co-chairperson, sisterhood bikur cholim repeat of Governor Christie Whitman’s It’s time we stopped chasing red her- Silver moved to Hewlett about six years chairperson, annual dinner co-chairper- Advisory Panel on School Vouchers, rings and focused our attention on the ago. Jacob is a bankruptcy attorney with son, and currently serves on the board of established in April 1995. They spent the real crises in our cities. Our children, offices in Garden City and Downtown YIH as the only female member and as better part of two years holding public schools, and communities need to be Brooklyn. He currently serves as a mem- youth department committee chairper- hearings around the state and making saved now! Those who delay have the ber of the Practice Standards Committee son. The Silver family has also served as a their recommendations. It was all for blood of our children on their hands. of the Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District host for the annual sukkah hop. naught. The NJEA would not allow Those who help achieve equal education- of New York. Meira is an attorney and a The congregation, which has steadily vouchers—even as a pilot program. al opportunity for every child will be in principal law clerk in the Supreme Court grown over the past six years, is com- There never was the need for a panel, great company with people like of the State of New York, Kings County. prised of members of all ages who run nor is there one now. Milton Friedman Presidents George Washington, Abraham Their children, Ruth and Murray, both the gamut in both their professional and devoted over 50 years of his life to devel- Lincoln, and the Rev. Martin Luther King, attend Hebrew Academy of Long Beach. personal interests; educators, artists, oping and perfecting the voucher system. Jr. Let’s do it for our children. According to Jacob and Meira, the deci- musicians, entrepreneurs, professionals, He summarized it well in his 2005 article, This op-ed was written by The Alliance for sion to live in Hewlett and join the Young attorneys, and physicians, many of whom School Vouchers Turn 50 But the Fight is Free Choice in Education. To contact them, Israel was motivated by an interest to live are also Torah scholars who give shiurim Just Beginning. “An educational voucher write to 226 Sussex Ave., Bldg A, #301; in the Five Towns that would afford them to the congregation. YIH also counts of reasonable size, though less than the Morristown, NJ 07962 or call 973-267-4213. O an opportunity to be within walking dis- amongst its members numerous current government spending per stu- tance of friends and family. Their choice of Hatzolah and Nassau County Auxiliary dent, that was available to all students YI Of Hewlett Dinner, January 16 Hewlett was based in part on the warm Police volunteers; YIH president Dr. Duvy regardless of income, race, or religion and The Young Israel of Hewlett Annual and engaging reputation of Rabbi Heshy Goldberg is an active Hatzolah volunteer. that did not prohibit add-ons or impose Dinner will take place on motzaei Blumstein. “We wanted to become part of Jacob and Meira are prideful of YIH mem- detailed regulations on start-up service Shabbos, January 16, at the Lawrence a community that we could easily be bers’ commitment and dedication to the providers would end up helping the poor Country Club, honoring Meira and Jacob involved with and enhance; a shul in benefit and safety of the larger Five more than a charity voucher—not Silver. The annual dinner will feature which our children could grow and devel- Towns community. instantly, but after a brief period as com- musical sensation Blue Fringe. The din- op a proud sense of their heritage,” accord- Young Israel of Hewlett serves its petition did its work. Just as the breakup ner will be buffet-style and a silent auc- ing to Meira Silver. During the past few members and the community with daily of the Ma Bell monopoly led to a revolu- tion hosted by Grandstand Sports and years, Meira has served YIH as sisterhood tion in communications, a breakup of the Memorabilia will take place. co-president, sisterhood shivah committee Continued on Page 52 school monopoly would lead to a revolu- tion in schooling.” If evidence were needed that competition works, this is provided by Caroline Hoxby, professor of economics at Stanford University and director of the Economics of Education Program at the National Bureau of Economic Research. She researched the Milwaukee voucher program and reported, “Schools that faced the most competition from the vouchers improved student achievement radically—by about 0.6 of a standard deviation each year. That is an enormous, almost unheard-of, improve- ment. Keep in mind the schools in question had had a long history of low achievement. Yet they were able to get their act together quickly. The most threatened schools improved the most, not only compared to other schools in Milwaukee but also compared to other schools in the state of Wisconsin that served poor, urban students. Milwaukee shows what public school administrators can tell you: Schools can improve if they are under serious competition.” [www.heartland.org/publica- tions/school%20reform/article/10212/How_t o_Improve_School_Productivity_Caroline_ Minter_Hoxby.html] Competition would also reduce costs dramatically. Take for example Pope John Paul II School in Clifton, serving the Roman Catholic Diocese of Paterson. With only 400 of its 800 seats filled, and many of its students on scholarships, the school is being compelled to close. Students will be forced into the public educational system at a cost to taxpayers of over $8 million per year. Were this trend to continue in coming years, until all 172,000 nonpublic students were forced back into the public system, this would cost taxpayers an additional $3.5 billion per year in today’s dollars. Construction costs to accommodate them would exceed $7 billion. [www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2009/01/bad _economy_helps_nj_schools_c.html] In sharp contrast, a voucher program that cut per-student costs by only 20 percent (many faith-based schools cut costs by more than 50 percent), would save New Jersey taxpayers a cool $5 billion. Added to this would be future cost savings in domestic security, courts, and jails, which are primarily filled with school 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES TRAVEL SECTION January 8, 2010 51 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS the shul offers a host of educa- Rabbi Dr. David Wiseman gives Continued from Page 51 tional classes which are avail- a shiur in Gemara prior to able to everyone. Throughout Shacharis and learns Mishnayos minyanim for Shacharis and the year, Rabbi Blumstein gives after davening. On Tuesday Minchah/Ma’ariv. On Shabbos a Gemara shiur prior to nights, Rabbi Blumstein gives a morning, there are three Shacharis on Shabbos morning Gemara shiur in Maseches minyanim: hashkamah, main and divrei halachah at the con- Taanis. On Wednesday nights, minyan, and a newly intro- clusion of each daily minyan. Rabbi Yitzchak Goldshmid duced youth minyan which During the winter season, on teaches Tanya. All classes are was instituted to provide grow- Shabbos, Rabbi Blumstein gives open to both men and women. ing preteen and teenage boys a Navi shiur prior to Minchah Throughout the year, YIH hosts an opportunity to learn to lein, in the afternoon. From Pesach well-known scholars to speak receive aliyos, and act as gab- to Rosh Hashanah, before to the membership on a variety baim. The minyan is open to Minchah, Shabbos afternoon, of topics. both boys and girls and their Rabbi Judah Z. Cohen, Esq., This past Pesach, YIH pub- parents who wish to daven conducts a shiur in Pirkei Avos. lished a widely acclaimed jour- with them. In addition, Rabbi Between Minchah and Ma’ariv, nal of Torah entitled Perspect- and Mimi Blumstein host a Rabbi Dr. David Lifschutz con- ives, which is a compilation of Friday night father/son oneg ducts a chaburah on topical scholarly and insightful divrei and Rabbi Blumstein is plan- sugyot. Following hashkamah Torah authored by rabbis in the ning a pre-Purim father/son minyan, Rabbi Dr. David YIH community as well as by learning program. Wiseman leads a shiur in prominent rabbis from nearby In addition to the minyanim, halachah. During the week, and abroad. Perspectives is currently available for viewing on both the YIH’s website and on the National Council of Young Israel’s website. A Purim Journal is forthcoming, which will be followed each year with a Torah Journal, to encompass all of the Jewish holidays. Young Israel of Hewlett’s youth department is extremely active. Aside from the youth minyan, YIH provides Shabbos morning groups for preschool and kindergarten aged children and up. The youth department provides many activities for children including chesed and holiday activities, numerous entertainment events, and weekly arts and crafts and karate classes. The YIH sisterhood is led by the co-presidium of Sara Goldberg and Neera Kimmel. The sisterhood provides many wonderful services, including active chesed committees: bikur cholim, shivah, cooking for new mothers, and a new members welcoming committee. There is also a Tehillim Group hosted by Rebbetzin Mimi Blumstein. For men, there are seasonal softball and basketball leagues, which provide a great social out- let and camaraderie for members. In August, YIH has an annual barbeque, which also serves to kick off the year for the youth department, featuring food, entertainment, rides, and prizes, and a chance to catch up after the summer season. Moreover, the YIH membership is provided annually with a glossy color photo calendar which features a membership directory and a yarzheit listing, along with all the zemanim of the year, and includes pictures of members and their children. To find out more, please visit the all new updated website, at www.yihewlett.org, where you can view photo albums from recent events. Anyone interested in visiting the YIH community for Shabbos may contact [email protected]. For dinner reservations, please e-mail [email protected]. O 52 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Petite Pram—Because Every Child Is Precious By Rochelle Maruch Miller Unsurpassed in its signature service, selection, and exquisite quality merchandise, Petite Pram pampers its customers in great style. Visit the store at its elegant- ly appointed new location at 500 Central Avenue—the beautiful window display and enchanting interior will take your breath away! But lest you harbor the mis- conception that the merchandise fea- tured therein is prohibitively priced, be assured that Petite Pram caters to every budget and that its merchandise is com- petitively priced. I spoke to Bracha Schulhof, the store’s personable proprietor and a veritable wellspring of information on all matters baby and child-related. Despite her busy schedule, Bracha graciously consented to share her expertise with our readers. 5TJT: What inspired you to establish Petite Pram? Bracha: When I was pregnant with my daughter seven years ago, I was shopping for a baby stroller and there was no baby store in the area. When I visited the big box retailers I felt that they did not provide the appropriate service or information required to make the right decision. I started Petite Pram to provide more per- sonalized service at competitive prices. 5TJT: What products and brands does the store feature? Bracha: In addition to providing for all the needs of an expectant mother, the store focuses on designing children’s rooms for all budgets and clientele. The store carries a broad range of furniture including Art for Kids, Natart, Dutalier, Bratt Decor, Young America / Stanley, Corsican, Netto, Oeuf, and Duc Duc. These brands encompass hand-painted pieces of furniture, traditional wooden furniture, as well as more modern eco- friendly designs. The stroller lines include Bugaboo, Orbit, Stokke, Babby Jogger, Maclaren, Inglesina, Mountain Buggy, iCandy, Phil & Ted’s, Bumble Ride, Uppa Baby, Valco, Maxi Cosi, and Quinny. The store also carries baby and children’s linens, car seats, swings, bouncers, high chairs, toys, accessories, and various gift items. 5TJT: What are the advantages of each line of strollers? Bracha: Our goal is to find the optimal stroller for each of our clients. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to strollers. The perfect stroller will be dependent on the client’s lifestyle including when, where, and how they will be using the stroller. When a client walks into the store looking for a stroller, we customize a solution that works for the individual. Our primary concern is to make sure our clients are happy with their purchase. 5TJT: What is your client base? How do their respective needs and preferences differ? Bracha: Our client base primarily includes clientele in the Five Towns/South Shore but we also have clients from Brooklyn, Queens, North Shore, Hamptons, Los Angeles, Florida, North Dakota, New Jersey, Hawaii, and Alaska. We have developed our clientele strictly from word-of-mouth and client referrals. Petite Pram has become synony- mous with outstanding service and amaz-

Continued on Page 54 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 53 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 53 ing prices—a combination unmatched by other juvenile products stores. 5TJT: Have you been showcased in the media? Bracha: We are currently designing two nurseries for the Platinum Baby TV Show on the WE channel for a woman having triplets. Most of our clients are looking for more than just a store; every room we design is for someone special and every new baby is treated like our own. you continued hatzlacha. 5TJT: What is the most rewarding Bracha: Thank you. aspect of owning Petite Pram? To schedule an appointment with Bracha: Sharing in people’s simchas Bracha, please call 516-295-8801 or 516-295- when a new baby is born and being able 9700. O to enhance their simcha by helping them in whatever way possible. We are also for- Yeshiva Ofakim, Parlor Meeting, tunate to be able to design children’s bed- January 12 rooms; being able to help both the par- Forty-six years ago, Ofakim, near Beer ents and child enjoy their new room has 5TJT: What would you like our readers selves in making sure we have something Sheva, was a poor, dusty development its own reward. to know about Petite Pram? for every type of client, regardless of their town with little parnasah and no Torah. 5IJT: How have your clients’ needs Bracha: At Petite Pram we focus on budget. We are constantly making sure HaRav Shach, z’l, sent four of his talmidim changed over the last few years? providing outstanding service and our prices are competitive with the stores to establish a yeshiva there. Ofakim there- Bracha: Over the last few years we have exceptional prices. On the service front, in Brooklyn. fore became the ‘front line’ of the battle done an extensive search to find several we spend time with our clients design- 5TJT: Your new store is stunning. to bring Torah to the Negev. furniture lines that provide good quality ing all aspects of their room—laying out Why did you decide to move to your A yeshiva in Ofakim? It was a desert lit- furniture at affordable pricing. We will the furniture, picking out the paint, car- new location? erally and figuratively. But the students not sell subpar furniture that will fall pet, and many of the accessories in the Bracha: We expanded our facilities to obeyed their rosh yeshiva. The yeshiva apart after a couple years of use. Due to room. We build the strollers and make increase our show space and storage so took root. Today, Ofakim is still a poor the significant cost the furniture and sure all our clients know how to proper- that we can carry additional stroller and development town of 30,000 people— stroller purchase is an investment—we ly use it before they leave the store. furniture lines. We have a wide selection hurt by the drastic budget cuts by the gov- focus our efforts on making sure that our Clients who have gone through the on the floor so that our clients can touch ernment, and the severe unemployment clients get the most value for their invest- Petite Pram experience constantly rec- and feel the products rather than pur- resulting from the shutdown of the facto- ment. In addition, we have bought cer- ommend their friends as they have chase them from a catalogue. ry that was the city’s biggest employer— tain furniture and cribs in bulk in order never experienced this type of service 5TJT: As a very satisfied Petite Pram but it has become a “rich” Torah city, with to provide better pricing to our clients in from another establishment. client of longstanding who savors every several yeshivos, elementary schools for these trying times. On the pricing front, we pride our- Petite Pram shopping experience, I wish boys and girls, and a girls’ seminary.

54 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Ofakim is a living miracle. The yeshiva is still the “soul,” the spark- plug and dynamo of Torah life in Ofakim and its surroundings. Rabbi Yosef Goldenthal was one of the four original founders, and he still is the menahel klali of mosdot hayeshiva. With the passing of Rabbi Horowitz, z’l, just two months ago, the sole responsibility rests on Rabbi Goldenthal. He carries a superhuman burden that becomes heav- ier by the day, but he remains as strong, determined, and successful as ever. Far Rockaway and the Five Towns communities will have the honor of welcoming Rabbi Goldenthal. The rav will speak about Ofakim and how to become partners in transforming the Negev desert into a blossoming oasis of Torah. A parlor meeting will be held Tuesday, January 12 at the home of Rabbi and Mrs. David Scheiner, 1136 Harris Street in Far Rockaway, at 8:30 p.m. For more information, please contact Rabbi Yitzchok Schreiber at 718-471-5132. O

Priority Pediatrics: Where Urgent Care Is About The Experience And The Excellence By Rochelle Maruch Miller Scenario #1: It’s 11 o’clock at night and that slight cough your child had all day is now accompanied by a not-so-slight fever as well. The cough now has a croup-like sound to it and is keeping your child, and consequently you, awake. Scenario #2: Your son came home from school with a bit of a limp. When you asked him about it he nonchalantly shrugged it off as “something that happened during recess.” When your husband tells him to get ready for basketball practice, you notice the limp has become a skip and your son begs off “to study for a test next week.” If you were reading this a year ago, odds are you’d have been calling your pediatrician, getting their answering service, and waiting for them to get paged and call back. (Nothing wrong with that—doctors need a life too.) If that cough or “limp now skip” got you nervous, your patience might become a bit frayed and rather than being kept waiting, you’d bundle your child into the car for a trip to the local emergency room. Making a mountain out of a molehill? Perhaps…but then again, perhaps not. Since you have no way of knowing until you actually get your child looked at by a professional physician with a back- ground in pediatrics and emergency medicine, you prefer being safe to sorry. Fortunately it’s 2010, and thanks to the foresight of one of New York’s leading pediatric ER specialists, who also happens to be a member of our community, you do have an option and it’s called Priority Pediatrics—the area’s first after- hours pediatric urgent care facility. Priority Pediatrics: The ER Isn’t “The Only Room In Town” Dr. Robert Van Amerigon, chief of the well-regarded pediatric emergency department at New York Methodist Hospital in Brooklyn, conceived of Priority Pediatrics. It represents a quantum leap forward in the pediatric urgent care concept because he chose to defy the status quo by creating an environment equipped to provide both care and comfort.

Continued on Page 56 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 55 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS ity, Disney meets Dr. (Rob). From He attended a special training Job 1, but creating a superior attention for a non life-threaten- Continued from Page 55 the moment you step in, you’re program developed in conjunc- experience is definitely on the ing condition do not belong in whisked away from lovely tion with Disney World that agenda as well. We’re dealing the crowded waiting area of a Priority Pediatrics is a fully Lynbrook and transported to trains professionals on how to with distraught and often fright- busy emergency room.” To equipped, state-of-the-art facility beautiful Britain—complete incorporate the “Disney Way” ened parents and children. They emphasize this point, Dr. Van with everything needed to pro- with all the accouterments into their business or profes- want more than confidence. Amerigon pointed out that vide virtually anything from (except the bad weather). sion, and, in the process, turn They want comfort—the kind almost 90 percent of the chil- diagnostic services to emer- Thanks to a series of UK-themed even the most casual office visit of comfort that only comes dren he sees in New York gency treatments. Aside from multidimensional images, into a positive experience. from those who really care— Methodist’s emergency room testing facilities and x-rays, chances are you may be looking A “Royal Guard Teddy-Bear” beyond performing the proce- get fixed up and sent home. “I Priority Pediatrics also has full for your passport even before (Priority’s official mascot) greets dure. That’s why we’re about can’t help but wonder how treatment facilities. Whether you have to look for your insur- you at the door at Priority making this an exemplary expe- much more relieved both par- your child needs a nebulizer or a ance card. Pediatrics. Dr. Rob elaborates on rience. Every parent knows that ents and children would’ve cast, odds are you’ll be “good to Dr. Rob built his career and the Disney Way, “When people children get sick or injured at been if they had access to an go” in less time than any ER. reputation on not accepting go to Disney World, their most “inconvenient” hours; an ear- option like ours,” he mused. “Dr. Rob” (as he’s known to compromise…especially from memorable experience is not a ache develops five minutes after Professionalism Is Always both patients and parents), himself. Parents should not feel ride. It’s that magical moment the pediatrician’s office closes; a On Call decided to create an “an unfor- resigned to settle for “less than when a staff member helps child sprains an arm during The goal of Priority gettable experience” designed to the best” when it comes to car- them get on a ride or has a posi- Sunday Little League or suffers Pediatrics’ team of dedicated engage, entertain, and in the ing for an ill child. He decided to tive interaction with them.” Dr. an eye injury on Thanksgiving, physicians, nurses, and staff is process take the child’s (and par- launch an urgent care facility Van Amerigon explains, “At While there are times an emer- to provide an exemplary level ent’s) mind off the reason that that was equal parts wow (med- Priority Pediatrics, providing gency room visit is warranted, of quality care until the brought them there. At this facil- ically) and wonder (design wise). quality critical care is definitely children who require medical patient’s own pediatrician is available to tend to them. Like most “first tier” medical practices Priority Pediatrics has a relationship with leading area hospitals—which in their case includes Winthrop University Hospital and LIJ Schneider Children’s Hospital. Dr. Van Amerigon proudly points out that all of Priority Pediatrics’ staff members are highly trained and experienced—which is not the case in many emergency rooms that are sometimes staffed by medical residents who are still in training. In addition, Priority Pediatrics is staffed exclusively for newborns, infants, children, adolescents, and young adults through the age of 21. No appointments are needed—considering the “time is of the essence” nature of urgent care, Dr. Van Amerigon prefers walk-ins. Dr. Van Amerigon also points out that Priority Pediatrics is a full-service urgent care center only—it does not offer well- care services. The facility works in partnership with local pediatric offices, sending them follow-up reports of the treatment and services they provided their patients. Priority Pediatrics treats ill- nesses including fevers, rashes, ear infections, conjunctivitis (pink eye), strep throat, pneumo- nia, bronchiolitis, asthma, flu symptoms, vomiting, dehydra- tion, headaches, abdominal pain, and urinary complaints. Injuries that are treated include burns, sprains, fractures, lacera- tions, and minor eye injuries. Methods of diagnosis and therapy include Derma bond, sutur- ing, splinting, pain manage- ment, hydration, lab tests, and x- rays. Priority Pediatrics is capable of providing virtually all the key diagnostic and treatment services your child would ever need in a professional, pleasant, and positive environment. Priority Pediatrics is conve- niently located at 544 Merrick Road in Lynbrook. Their business hours are Monday–Friday, 6:00 56 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES p.m.–12:00 a.m. (midnight); Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, 12:00 p.m.–12:00 a.m. Priority Pediatrics accepts all major insurance plans as well as credit cards, checks, and cash. For further information, please call 516-599-KIDS (5437). O

“Production” At The Stella K. Abraham High School For Girls Production ‘09-’10 was amazing! This year’s theme, “The Gift of Shabbos,” was beautifully expressed using the other gifts that Hashem gave us—the gifts of music, dance, comedy, and drama. The beautiful harmonies, moving and comi- cal dramas, superbly choreographed observes, “'Production is an amazing dances, and inspiring sign language pres- opportunity for our girls and focuses on entation led SKA’s Production, under the developing and displaying the talents direction of Mrs. Terry Wagner, to set a with which Hashem has blessed our girls. new standard! Each student is able to build her sense of As Mrs. Helen Spirn, principal, self esteem while enjoying the experience of working with a group and getting close with girls in all grades. I am proud that almost 200 students participated in our 14th Production.” “This year’s Production emitted a gen- uine feeling of camaraderie among the girls,” a faculty member notes. “I felt that each wanted the other to succeed. All the girls who participated, whether on the stage or behind it, shone!” Months of work and practice went into preparing for Production. Students stayed after school perfecting their performances, sometimes individually, but always, in the end, coming together as a group. A veteran yeshiva theater teacher with 24 years of experience, Mrs. Wagner

Continued on Page 58

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 57 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 57 agrees. “The finale says it all. Everyone is on stage together; there are no individual curtain calls. The backstage crew con- tributed as much as those out front. I’ve been told that the highlight of Production for the girls is the week before the performances—everyone watches and cheers! Close friendships between all the grades are formed; girls are so proud of themselves and each other!” SKA’s Production ’09-’10 was indeed an incredible success on so many levels! O

Record Number Of Ohel Bais Ezra Day Trips Provides The Warmest December On Record! The frigid winter weather has been no match for the warmth and entertainment brought to hundreds of children and young adults with developmental disabilities thanks to a record number of day trip programs provided by Ohel Bais Ezra. Thanks to additional secured funding, Ohel has been able to provide a wide variety of day trips on legal holidays to children with disabilities. In addition, Ohel’s

school is closed—whether because of vacation or legal holidays, and parents typically face tremendous hardship in holiday camps—as well as other school- finding safe and suitable recreational pro- break and end-of-summer programs have grams for their children with special provided activity-enriched days for chil- needs. dren with special needs when schools Ohel’s programs provide, free of and regularly scheduled programs are not charge, a recreational “break” for children in session. and a respite and “break” for parents. Rain It can be extremely difficult when or shine, from wind chills to heat index-

58 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES es, Ohel helps families cope with the sea- and professional education Dr. Shalom its various schools and divisions. Touro formance. The atmosphere was very sons by providing state-of-the-art pro- Hirschman have done in helping to final- College has branch campuses, locations, freilich and a great time was had by all grams and services for children with ize this agreement.” and instructional sites in the New York present. Everybody was smiling, singing, developmental disabilities. OHEL’s inno- Dr. Lander said that Dr. Alan Kadish, area, as well as branch campuses and pro- clapping, and enjoying the music and vative programs continue to respond to Touro’s senior provost and chief operat- grams in Berlin, Jerusalem, Moscow, and entertainment. They all felt the enor- some of the Jewish community’s most ing officer, will be working with Dr. Adler Florida. Touro University California and mous therapeutic value of music, and urgent needs. over the next several months to ensure a its Nevada branch campus, as well as the residents and staff extend many On Chol Hamoed Sukkos, a large group smooth transition. The transaction is Touro College Los Angeles, are separately thanks to Mordechai Ben David and of children spent a wonderful full day at expected to be completed in mid-2010. accredited institutions governed in com- Mikimi for an outstanding performance. Hershey Park. Buses left early and New York Medical College, one of the mon by the same Board of Trustees as They greatly appreciate the warmth, together with Ohel’s spirited volunteers, nation’s oldest private health sciences uni- Touro College. O kindness, and joy that was brought to children enjoyed a full day of new versities, offers advanced degrees in medi- Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health friendships, exciting rides, and, of cine, science, public health and the health Mordechai Ben David and Mikimi Care Center that afternoon. O course, warm food! On Thanksgiving, professions. The leading academic biomed- Cheer-up Squad many children enjoyed the Ohel outing ical research institution between New York On Wednesday, December 29, the res- Chai Lifeline Friends ‘N Fun to Prospect Park Zoo. City and Albany, the university manages idents of Woodmere Rehabilitation and Weekend, January 9 Ohel’s annual winter camp, which more than $35 million in research and Health Care Center were given a very At the height of winter, the takes place in late December, also provid- other sponsored programs, notably in the special treat. An impromptu concert was Lawrence-Cedarhurst community will ed fun and warmth to over 50 children areas of cardiovascular disease, cancer, kid- performed by the world-renowned provide warmth to 30 Chai Lifeline and much needed respite to parents. Kids ney disease, the neurosciences and infec- singer Mordechai Ben David together girls living with life-threatening or from the winter camp also enjoyed day tious diseases. with the outstanding Mikimi Cheer-up debilitating illness and 30 energetic, trips to the New York Hall of Science, the Touro is a system of Jewish-sponsored Squad as part of a Bikur Cholim visit to dynamic counselors. In their third Bronx Zoo, and Funtime USA. The week- non-profit institutions of higher and pro- one of his friends who is at the facility Friends ‘N Fun weekend, hostesses of-winter camp closed with a wonderful fessional education. Touro College was for rehabilitation. Although they came Batsheva Katz and Beth Honig have Shabbaton at the Raleigh Hotel. established in 1971 primarily to enrich the to see one particular individual, opened their homes to provide games, As Shoshana, a parent of a child with Jewish heritage, and to serve the larger Mordechai Ben David and the Mikimi activities, and entertainment that is autism, expressed, “I don’t know how we American community. Approximately group graciously welcomed other resi- would balance our work and home 17,500 students are currently enrolled in dents and the staff to enjoy their per- Continued on Page 60 responsibilities when school is not in session without such help. Best of all, the children really enjoy these opportunities to interact with their peers in a safe and fun environment. We are so grateful to Ohel.” With all day trips, Ohel arranges everything from personal transportation pick- ups at children’s homes to door-to-door safe return after a full day of fun activity. Dozens of college age students spent their holiday vacations volunteering and helping Ohel with these many programs. As Dani, a volunteer from Long Island, commented, “The smiles generated from these trips will give me great memories forever. I was so glad to be part of someone else’s happiness.” For more information about Ohel’s programs and services, or to volunteer please contact Ohel at 1800-603-OHEL or [email protected]. O

New York Medical College To Affiliate With Touro College Founded in 1860, New York Medical College is currently an independent non- profit institution sponsored since the late 1970s by the Archdiocese of New York. An agreement was signed recently by the Archdiocese and Touro College to maintain NYMC as an independent institution while transferring the authority to appoint the NYMC Board of Trustees from the Archdiocese to a new entity organized by Touro. “Our goal is to ensure the growth and prosperity of New York Medical as a leader in education and biomedical research in the health professions,” said Dr. Karl Adler, president and CEO of New York Medical College. “It is entirely fit- ting that we are entering into a new era with Touro as we celebrate our 150th anniversary.” “We look forward to continuing New York Medical College’s longstanding tradition of excellent medical education and training and innovative biomedical research, and integrating their programs with those of Touro,” said Dr. Bernard Lander, founder and president of Touro College. “We appreciate the work that Dr. Mark Hasten, chairman of Touro’s board of trustees; board member Martin Oliner; and senior vice president for graduate 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 59 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Balabusta Basics: Transforming Continued from Page 59 Brides Into Homemakers By Rochelle Maruch Miller sure to please every participant. Chai Mention Shonie Schwartz’s name and Lifeline’s innovative Friends ‘N Fun you are sure to elicit unabashed praise weekends give former and potential from the many young brides—and their campers a booster shot of Camp husbands!—who are reaping the rewards Simcha and Camp Simcha Special of her culinary expertise. magic that reinforces self-esteem and “I wish you had been around when I cements all-important friendships. got married,” is how people often Community volunteers have spear- approach Shonie, creator of Balabusta headed the entire effort, granting royal Basics, a unique culinary training experi- treatment and extraordinary hospitali- ence for kallahs—and others as well. ty. The combination of devoted hosts Personable and highly professional, and the controlled chaos of Camp Shonie discovered her passion for cook- Simcha counselors have melded ing at the tender age of seven. A certified together to create an environment of pastry chef who trained at the presti- pure delight and support that sustains gious French Culinary Institute in Soho, campers from summer to summer. she teaches at the Center for Kosher The hostesses cordially invite all Culinary Arts in Brooklyn, and at the women and girls from the community Cooking School of the Five Towns JCC, to join the very special children of Chai and created a Culinary Arts Program at Lifeline for an oneg Shabbos. This Manhattan High School for Girls, Shonie Chef Shonie Schwartz in her kitchen. evening of song and laughter will take specializes in traditional Jewish cuisine place on Friday night, January 9, but can “diversify” into all kinds of parashas Sh’mos, at 7:45 p.m. at the sophisticated fare. was able to navigate her way through the home of Batsheva Katz, 50 Margaret Shonie, who got married at a young age, kitchen. Her friends were not as fortunate; Avenue in Lawrence. O had already honed her culinary skills and many regarded putting together a basic

family dinner as being difficult, let alone preparing a Shabbos meal for guests. Thus began Shonie’s mission of teaching young wives and mothers how to cook. Although Balabusta Basics began as a series of classes intended for brides, it is never too late for anyone to become the celebrated chef of their home. Shonie offers on-one-one or group classes in her glatt kosher kitchen. Although Balabusta Basics is Woodmere-based, Shonie does travel to other venues for individual or group lessons. Shonie has a real passion for food, but has an even greater passion for wanting other people to share her enthusiasm. She believes that everyone, regardless of their age, has the potential and ability to become an expert chef in their kitchen. Consider Leah, a recently married graduate student, “We received so many fabulous engagement, shower, and wedding gifts, but if I had to pick a favorite it would have to be the gift certificate my best friend gave me for six Balabusta Basics sessions with Shonie Schwartz,” Leah explains. Taste any of her Shabbos delicacies, from the fluffy gefilte fish balls to her delicious chicken soup to the savory cholent and kugels and sensational salads that make Avi, her husband, wax enthusiastic, and you will find it difficult to believe that Leah considered herself to be “culinarily challenged” just two short months ago. But that was before Shonie 60 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Schwartz weaved her web of culinary all the attention she needs to become a magic, providing Leah with her signature balabusta in every sense of the word, no individualized attention and teaching her matter how hectic your schedule and all of the techniques and skills that are lifestyle may be. Plus, Balabusta Basics is integral to becoming a balabusta with more than just cooking; Shonie is really alacrity and facile. Prior to attending there for every kallah every step of the Shonie’s highly acclaimed one-on-one ses- way. She even tells you how to stock your sions, Leah could do little more than kitchen and what to register for, so that “cook” hard-boiled eggs. Now, several you don’t end up with any unnecessary days short of celebrating their first items that you’ll never end up using. You month wedding anniversary, Leah has can call her any time with any questions the confidence of a seasoned balabusta, you have. I’ve called her on a Thursday and Avi couldn’t be more pleased. night with questions about a recipe and “A lot of our recently married friends she ‘walked me through’ and put me at count on Shabbos invitations from their ease. Take it from me—a gift certificate for respective parents, family, and friends or Balabusta Basics is a great shower or wed- buy take-out,” Avi says. “Most of the ding gift; one that will be greatly appreci- wives don’t cook, and if they do, they still ated and will last a lifetime.” U.S. Congressman Peter King is seen here swearing in the new Majority Legislators. Standing, don’t feel confident or comfortable Balabusta Basics is not just for the (L–R) are: Legislators Rich Nicolello, Vincent Muscarella, Denise Ford, Dennis Dunne, Francis preparing Shabbos meals. Leah and I novice, and features classes of all sizes, for X. Becker, Jr., Joseph Belesi, John Ciotti, Rose Marie Walker, Norma Gonsalves and Howard really enjoy visiting our parents and sib- all skill levels, and is designed for all inter- Kopel. Seated are Majority Leader Peter Schmitt and County Executive Ed Mangano. lings, but her food is so delicious that ests. It is the perfect activity for showers we’ve already had both sets of parents and fundraisers. For additional informa- over. Our moms are both great balabus- tion, please call Shonie Schwartz at 646-226- East Rockaway, and South Valley Stream,” that has not been carefully thought out. tas and they were amazed by the food 9938 or visit www.BalaBustaBasics.com. O said Legislator Kopel. We need to take care of the issues and by Leah’s presentation.” The Legislature held its first meeting of caused by aging sewage plants in “My mom couldn’t get over the transfor- Howard Kopel Inducted As Nassau 2010 on Monday and approved the new Lawrence and Cedarhurst, while also, at mation,” adds Leah. “She’s an incredible County Legislator rules of the legislature which include the same time dealing with the long-suf- cook—everyone who’s ever tasted her On Monday, January 4, 2010, the new measures to streamline the legislative fering residents of Bay Park and East food just raves and raves. And for years she Nassau County Legislature was inducted process, reduce waiting times for speakers, Rockaway, who have suffered too long tried to teach me, but to no avail. I was at the Cradle of Aviation Museum in and improve scrutiny on legislative items. from the odor and water pollution emit- busy with school, busy dating, and then, Garden City. Attorney and businessman “We’ve inherited a deficit of dismal ted by the Bay Park plant.” last June, I had gotten engaged! There I Howard Kopel was sworn in for his first proportions and a budget reliant on Legislator Kopel will serve as chair of was with no idea of how to find my way term as Nassau County Legislator repre- one-shots, borrowing, and tax increases. the government services and operations around the kitchen. Amy, my best friend, senting Legislative District 7. I am very eager to begin resolving this committee, vice-chair of the public had heard about Balabusta Basics from her “I thank all the voters for giving me the imbalance without imposing any new works, and as a member of the economic sister-in-law and felt it would be perfect opportunity to serve as Legislator and I taxes or fees on the overburdened tax- and community development and labor for me. She was spot-on! Shonie Schwartz am so proud to represent my home dis- payers of this county,” said Legislator committee, and the towns, villages, and is absolutely amazing; she’s a true profes- trict which includes Inwood, Woodmere, Kopel. “Also, I am working hard to come cities committee. O sional and extremely patient. Because the Cedarhurst, Lawrence, Hewlett, Bay Park, up with a new solution to the problems sessions are one-on-one, each kallah gets and portions of Island Park, Oceanside, created by a sewer consolidation plan Continued on Page 62

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 61 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS The Gift of Music, Oliver with a Twist, Miri Continued from Page 61 Pops In, The Wizdom of Oz, We Got Annie, and Once Upon a Princess is not simply the DRS Visits Woodmere Rehab marvelous voices; the upbeat, exhilarating DRS students visited the Woodmere musical numbers; the elaborate sets, or Rehabilitation and Health Care Center even the magic of all of these combined. In each evening of Chanukah to light can- essence, what pulls thousands of women dles and sing for the residents. to see each year’s show is the opportunity The residents of the facility thank to sit back and laugh. Really laugh. Humor these 12th grade students from DRS is integral to a Regal production. And while High School who also told Chanukah the tone of much of the entertainment stories and sang Chanukah melodies to offered in the frum arena tends to lean entertain them. The young men who towards melodrama, these plays offer you came were, Mark Bryk, Aryeh Mazel, the magical, marvelous chance to walk out Shimmy Hirsch, Ben Frager, Benjamin Pianka, Binyamin Zwicker, Daniel Katz with a smile on your face. Happily Eva and Zachy Adler. O After is unapologetically, first and fore- DRS High School students singing Chanukah songs with residents and staff of Woodmere most, a splendid, hugely-entertaining musi- Happily Eva After, February 20-21 Rehabilitation and Health Care Center at a Chanukah candle-lighting ceremony. cal comedy featuring some of your favorite New York audiences can finally live performers (all American or English born happily ever after… “Happily Eva After,” women who have made aliyah to Eretz that is! And they can really live the experi- Yisrael) at their finest. ence, and not just watch it on DVD! Regal Happily Eva After is a sequel to last Productions, the outstanding “Broadway- year’s play Once Upon a Princess. Now that style” musical shows that have wowed the evil Miss Minchin has been dismissed Israeli women for the past seven years, from her role as Headmistress of the Select will make their debut on the New York Seminary for Girls, her sister, the lovable stage on February 20 and 21 at the and laughable Miss Amelia (Kerry Bar- Millennium Theater in Brooklyn to bene- Cohn) has taken the reins. Having to deal fit Rachel’s Place and Zir Chemed. English with a lively brood of (super talented!) girls speaking theatergoers have anxiously and the slightly strange new teacher awaited the season’s premier, and flocked Madam Marshall (Tamar Rudy), Miss to the Yerushalayim performances in Amelia is thrust into a perplexing plot droves. Their enthusiasm was contagious. when an anonymous letter arrives hinting Women in the audience have reported: “I to a heretofore hidden diary and a sinister

was enchanted!” “The singing, the tap P plot to restore Miss Minchin to her former h o t o dancing, the set… the whole thing was s position. While Eva (Abby Yudin), an intro- B y L e unreal!” “I haven’t laughed so hard in b spective, lovely new student (with a a S o n

months!” And the term most often repeat- n breathtaking voice), struggles to fit in, and e b e r ed: “They’ve done it again!” g the kooky Cook (Avigayil Hool) undergoes Perhaps the key to the meteoric success DRS High School students light Chanukah candles with Sophie Blum, a resident at an identity crisis, everyone is suspecting of Happily Eva After and its forerunners, Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. everyone else of penning the mysterious

62 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES missive and unearthing the enigmatic warm, nurturing home environment in a journal. At every turn, the stage erupts in kosher, Shabbos-observant setting. They song and dance and the play reaches its cli- also provide mentors, therapy, school, max all too soon—amidst the audience’s and job placements, with the goal of cheers. Comedic brilliance is unsurpassed helping the young women gain the skills as Kerry Bar Cohn—known for her memo- and self-confidence to grow into inde- rable portrayal of Miss Hannigan in We pendently functioning adults. Until Got Annie and the Scarecrow in The Rachel’s Place came onto the scene, the Wizdom of Oz, puts on another show-stop- only option for these girls was a city shel- ping performance in her repeat rendition ter or a park bench. Now they have a of Miss Amelia. Choreographer for this place to call “home.” Helping these girls and past Regal productions, Kerry is a tap to cope with life and find the courage to dancing instructor par excellence. Avigayil overcome their situations, grow together, Hool can’t seem to get out of the kitchen… and move on is what Rachel’s Place is all She delights us with her multiple gifts (and about. The first and only residential pro- her English accent!) in her role as Cook gram of its kind, Rachel’s Place is New both this year and last, and as the Maid in York State certified, and is pointed to as Miri Pops In. Tamra Rudy starred as Aviva the model for overall excellence. The pri- in The Gift of Music and as the Princess vate school tuitions and the varied thera- Sarita in Once Upon a Princess, and as pies required are tremendously costly. Madam Marshall is again demonstrating The n’shei chayil who founded and have her versatility on stage. The entire cast, made Rachel’s Place their mission in life with the inimitable Chayelle Regal and have undertaken the enormous task of Rikki Reichman at the helm, operate with raising funds for this lifesaving refuge. total and recognizable professionalism Transporting Happily Eva After to throughout. It is no wonder that they have America is the realization of months of garnered themselves a loyal following and, effort on their part, in the hopes that the for many of the principal players, actual revenue gained will enable Rachel’s Place fan clubs! to carry on its critical work. Zir Chemed is It is with great excitement that world-renowned for its efforts in helping Rachel’s Place brings Happily Eva After to hundreds of couples each year experi- the New York stage. A home for young ence the gift of life. women who have no home, Rachel’s Be part of this much-anticipated event! Place has boldly and masterfully filled an Treat yourself to tickets for the upcoming unfortunate—but very real—need in our showing of Happily Eva After—while community. Rachel’s Place provides a safe they last! You will enjoy a memorable, haven for girls ages 16-21 who, because of delightful evening of inspiring, top-rate abuse, neglect, emotional, or other com- entertainment and be supporting two pelling reasons, have been forced to leave vital tzedakah causes. their homes and have nowhere else to go. For more information, call 917-676- Rachel’s Place provides these girls with a 5760. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 63 rienced don’t see it that way. Some see Creating A Super Bowl–Worthy Coach the credential requirements as subjective. Some see the process resembling the university system where people receive cre- BY JANINE SHINDLER reach personal and professional goals consultants and friends? The short ver- dentials based on the hours of work com- faster than they would alone. sion: Consultants tell clients what to do. pleted instead of based on client results. Like any other professional network- Professional coaches help their players Coaches help clients figure out what to Both sides have valid arguments. What ing event, a coach opened conversations with changing jobs, clarifying a vision, do. Friends lack objectivity and distance. should a coach do? The decision is up to with “What do you do?” improving communication skills, realiz- Coaches don’t. the coach. However, they could lose oppor- When the question was bounced back, ing a dream, growing a small business, Not convinced? Informed customers tunities in situations where a business or she answered, “I’m a coach and trainer.” climbing the corporate ladder, and so on. interested in receiving coaches know customer requires credentials before they “Hey, cool! What sport?” A good coach encourages, confronts, chal- enough to consider only coaches that even consider looking at a coach. “The game of business and life!” lenges, questions, and above all, consis- have credentials. A 2006 ICF-commis- Over 25 years ago, we all jumped Though coaching has grown more tently and unconditionally honors, sioned PriceWaterhouseCoopers survey around to Let’s Get Physical while watch- popular in recent years and over 40,000 respects, and supports clients in their reports that 52% of coaches say clients ing a Jane Fonda exercise video. Years people have received professional coach- efforts to grow and attain goals. expect their coaches to have credentials. later, we learned the exercises caused ing certification, many still know nothing A Sherpa Coaching survey states that 50 injuries and that Fonda’s body came as a about the field. Why Coaching And Credentialing? to 70% of American coaches consider cre- result of plastic surgery, not exercise. No The personal and professional coach- dentials as very important or essential. credible gym would hire an instructor or Meet The Professional Coach ing field remains young, but already many Furthermore, companies who bring trainer without any of the right certifi- The International Coach Federation people claim to be a coach when they coaches on under a contract often stipu- cates or credentials. (ICF), the global governing body for don’t have the right skills, experience, or late coaches come with credentials in If you want to pursue coaching, work- coaches, defines coaching as partnering credentials to help their players become order to work with employees or run ing on your credentials will prevent peo- with clients to work through a thought- stars. That may not sound bad. Think coach training programs. ple from thinking of you as a charlatan provoking and creative process. Like about these. Would you want a nurse to Not only do credentials help you stand who will do more harm than good. O sports coaching, the coaching process perform surgery? Would you want some- out from those without them, but they inspires clients to capitalize on their per- one putting chemicals in your hair with- also send a signal to potential clients that Janine Shindler is the owner of JAS Coaching & Training in New York City. To learn more, visit sonal and professional potential. In short, out beautician training? Would you want you make it a priority to invest in your www.jascoaching.com. Together with coach coaches instill excellence in their players. an unlicensed pilot to fly your plane? own development so you can better help Chaya Abelsky, she created the High Impact Coaching Certificate Program. To register for The ICF states that the coach has the Would you want an unlicensed therapist them with theirs. Like doctors, creden- the upcoming™ training program, call Chaya responsibility to: to counsel you on your problems? tialed coaches respect and follow the Abelsky at 347-240-8899. • Discover, clarify, and align with what Counseling and coaching have differ- code of ethics. the client wants to achieve. ences, especially in the relationship. • Encourage client self-discovery. Coaches focus on moving forward and The Dark Side Of Credentials Deadline for Advertising • Elicit client-generated solutions and taking action rather than finding solu- Yes, there are drawbacks to credential- strategies. tions to unresolved problems or reaching ing. Some see it as a political tool in that in the Next Issue is • Hold the client responsible and an understanding. So why would you go they only benefit those who charge for Tuesday, January 12 accountable. to an untrained coach, but not an unli- the credentialing process. Some see the Coaching involves a professional rela- censed therapist? process taking advantage of those newer at 5:00 P.M. tionship between the coach and the That clarifies the differences between to coaching by telling them they need Call 516-984-0079 client where the coach helps clients coaching and counseling. What about credentials to get clients while the expe-

64 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 65 66 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 67 SERVICES SERVICES PROVIDED PROVIDED

Shomer Shabbos. Cheapest Rates ever Petals — Special occasion dresses and from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem day or gowns for your lovely little ladies. night 180 Shekel four passengers + four Brenda Goldstein 516-317-8661 suitcases included. Call 050-6341-234 Speak to Shaul. SITUATION Photography - Small Event Specialist WANTED Bar/Bat Mitzva - Bris - Yeshiva/Shul Functions - Family Portraits Reasonable prices - Quality Work - Fast LPN nurse, Medicaid provider. Seek Turnaround. Call Eli - 516-319-7709 Medicaid case or private duty. Every The Computer Place other weekend days or weekdays 5 pm- Computer Consultants, Technical 10 pm. References available. Support, Network, Internet Solutions. 718-581-9786 Call 866-583-2443 Menadvim— Furniture and Appliances. HELP WANTED Like new to Donate and Receive. Call 718-MEN-ADVIm (718-636-2384) We deliver. ~Attention Speakers and Trainers~ Nehora Tours Travel. Not a gimmick. Excellent $$$ opportunity. No experi- Best rates ever, best service JFK ence necessary. Send resume: NY/Newark NJ to Ben Gurion all credit [email protected]. cards accepted best deal all airlines. Go to www.explorefreedom.com/tig for [email protected] details. “Used or Abused” Before you buy a used Centers for Care seeking entry-level car, come in for a free frame (structural) finance person to work on collections check. Precision Auto Body 691 Burnside for a number of Facilities. Willing to Ave, Lawrence. 516-371-1137. Friends train. Some traveling required. don’t let friends drive junk! Fax resume: 718-228-2573 Study with Steve. One-on-one tutoring. SAT Math prep, regents, high school Attention - 5 key people needed. and elementary math, high school Wellness company expanding in the physics. Call 516-371-5522 area. P/T or F/T 500-5000+ per month. Go to www.networkfordollars.com Advance your guitar skills. Experienced in all genres with a passion for hard rock/and metal training. Your Real Estate, Advanced rhythm, soloing and jam sessions. Patient and attentive. Adaptable Service, or lesson-plans to fit all playing levels. 45 min session $65. Help Wanted Ad Call Victor at 917-561-8486

Help Kosiner Bikur Cholim maintain Here Every their apartments near Manhattan hospitals. Sponsor a Shabbos as a z’chus. Thursday Donations accepted. Tax deductible. 347-924-4205 100,000 readers

HK Ilanas Agency — Provide you with look forward to screened, Experienced Nanny, what’s happening Housekeepers, Aids, Companion to the Elderly. 21 years in the Industry. in the 5 Towns Licensed and bonded. by reading 718-575-1700, 212-967-5797 The Five Towns Simchas Naava Share your simcha flowers! Be Jewish Times. m’sameach other simchas! Donate your fresh flower arrangements! We will match your simcha date with Deadline is Monday simchas following yours or deliver them at 5:00 p.m. to nursing home residents. To donate or obtain flower 1 Week ...... $35 arrangements call 516-239-6066 In memory of a special friend, Naava Wassner Katlowitz 2 Weeks ...... $60 Boro Park Ladies’ and Children’s coat 4 Weeks...... $100 Gemach. Donate or receive. Excellent condition only. 718-972-3211. Woodmere drop off available. Weekly Ads of up to 25 words G'Mach Chasdei Yisroel — Lending money to people in Klei Kodesh & for Klei Kodesh purposes. In the Far Call: 516-569-0502 Rockaway-Five Towns area. Please call Fax: 516-977-0608 917-822-9910 for more info. Or email [email protected]. In Memory of Or E-mail ads to: R' Yisroel Ben Binyamin, a"h. [email protected] New Table and Chair Gemach for short-term simchas. 740 Mador Ct., Include payment info. Far Rockaway. Call 718-471-0368 68 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE HELP WANTED FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR RENT

Service Coordinator — Challenge Early West Lawrence/Far Rockaway — by Lawrence/ Far Rockaway Co-op — Rechavia, Israel — Beautiful new luxu- Intervention Center F/T position avail- appt New to market. Jr. 4, spacious, light ry 2 BR, 2 bth apt available for short- able for Bil Russian/Hebrew Service Contemporary c/h col. high ceilings, and bright, doorman/ elevator building. term rental only. Fully equipped kosher Coordinator at Queens location BA in skylights, fpl ...... $859K ...... $239K kitchen. W/D, prime location. Call Human Services or related field Brick legal 2 family+ basement 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 Hadar 347-306-1552 required. Excellent Benefits Package. Location! ...... $850K Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, Fax Resume: 718-851-3392 Brick Dramatic Young 5 BR Col cul-de- House for sale by owner, on a very cute FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. sac MIC ...... $900’s block in Cedarhurst, 3 BR, 1 1/2 Bath, Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 Registered Nurse – AMAP Instructor Semi Attached 3 BR col ...... $300’s EIK, LR/DR and Finished Basement. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 — Looking for some extra income? Open House Sunday 11-1 p.m. Priced to sell. For more info please call 146 B9 and 156 B9 condos new construc- 516-569-1685 (leave a message if no Current NYS Licensed Registered Nurse Flatbush — AveN/E4 Newly renovated, tion for sale or rent answer). needed to provide AMAP Training to 4BR, 2Bath, LR, DR, EIK, W/D, ter- 1250 B12th St. 3 BR, 2 bths staff working with individuals who have race, in pvt house. Walk to all. For Rent Oceanside — Brand new construction. developmental disabilities. Primarily Call 718-253-1142 Brooklyn locations. Experience teaching 304 Atlantic Ave. Ced. mint . . . . $3,000 Beautiful CH col. Large 4 BR (1 level), AMAP courses required. Must be avail- 1047 Magnolia Pl. Wdmr ...... $3,600 2.5 bths, granite EIK, FDR, den with fp, Far Rockaway — Sand Castle apts. able Sundays, possibly weekdays as Milky Forst Properties Inc. 516-239-0306 full bsmt, in cul-de-sac, walk all, best Studios $950, 1 BR $1300 - includes utili- well. Ohel Bais Ezra - phone: price ...... $675K ties, no brokers' fee. Gorgeous views! 718-686-3102, fax 718-851-6428, e-mail: Woodmere/Cedarhurst Oppty! 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 HW floors, fully-equipped kitchens, [email protected] 12,000 sq. ft. approx. 90’x150’, Colonial, cable & internet ready, closets. Gym, 17 rooms, full bsmt. with hi ceilings, Cedarhurst: House for sale 3+1 market, pharmacy, laundry, & shul in clean 2 car garage plus storage, 6 space Bedrooms 2 Full Bathrooms. Close to all Bldg. Convenient to public transporta- shuls . If interested please call Matthew INTERNSHIPS parking, 2 family, professional use, tion. Call Weissman Realty Group accountant, Esq., medical and/or educa- at 516-316-1856 or e-mail at 718-471-2593 AVAILABLE tional and religious uses. Grand colonial [email protected]. Low taxes. with charm and great possibilities. Asking $625 Bayswater — 1 BR, washer/dryer, frum in editorial, Available at once . . . $875K Negotiable neighbors, great kitchen private back- Owner 516-322-3555 Woodsburgh — C/H brick col. 6 BR, 5.5 yard. Very reasonable. $700 516-374-3635 classified production, and bths, full finished basement, pool, tennis Valley Stream — First show! Lovely 4 advertising departments. Lawrence — Large house on deep prop- court, beautifully landscaped on 1+ erty. 5BR, 4 bths, high ceilings, LR, DR, acre. Owner. $1.850M Call 516-680-6422 BR, 2 bths, in SD#14, LR, DR, den, on E-mail to arrange interviews: office/ den, hardwood floors throughout, large property, walk all, ...... $2,350 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 prime location, close to all. Reduced! Lawrence: OURS ONLY!! [email protected] ...... $699K BRICK, C/H COL, Stately BRICK, w/old Far Rockaway — Lg. Hse Rental: 4br, Far Rockaway — 2 houses New to mar- world charm, Hi ceilings, 6Br, 4.5 2bth, bsmt., hi-ceilings, NU bths, W\D. ket! Brand new construction. BTHS, Kosher Eik, Lg. FDR, Library, Call 516-322-3555 REAL ESTATE Detached 1 family house, 3 BR, 2.5 bths, Fin. Bsmt., Lg Prop., WALK ALL. beautiful kosher kitchen, private drive- ...... $995K Lawrence — 18 Berkley Place FOR SALE way, full basement, porch +2 balconies, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Center hall col., 4 BR, 3 bths, stunning convenient location. Priced to sell. . . . cul-de-sac, best location . . $4K monthly ...... $479K Call Irene 516-652-7099 Cedarhurst: 1st Show 2 family 3/3, 4.5 bths, beautiful kosher Open House Sunday 1/10, 12:30-2 PM 1st FLR, FDR, 2BR. 2BTHS Terrace. kitchens, parking, full basement. Only North Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch 949 Carol Ave. Views of Gdns, W/D ...... $599K in MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. Woodmere — Large split 5BR, 3.5bth, Lo maint, Grt. loca’n, Walk all. . $319K Cedarhurst — 4 BR, 2.5 bth colonial. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 EIK, DR, LR, Den, Finished Bsm’t, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Gar. Near all. Excellent location. Bank owned, great value. Lawrence/Far Rockaway — 833 Central Under Market Value...... $519K Hewlett/Old Woodmere — Large unique Ave. Jr 4 (2 BR) Spacious doorman/ ele- Dalia Fritz Realty 516-374-4411 charming home. 7 BRs 4 Bths. Heart of Delray Beach, FL King’s Point — 55+ vator building, walk all ...... $1,500 Hewlett. Immaculate condition. . $950K condo. 1/1.5 choice location, second 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Call Shira at Weissman Realty Bayswater: Great houses- from floor. overlooks lake, screened porch, 516-410-5505 $399,000- low NYC real estate taxes- fully tiled, updated bths, new w/d, newly Far Rockaway — 1 and 2 BR apart- Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 interest rates rising- “$8,000 income tax painted, FSBO priced to sell $35,995. ments. some balconies. New kitchens, credit” ends April 30th. Call now, don’t 561-637-7386 lots of closets, 24 hr doorman, security Hewlett — New to market. Beautiful 5 wait until spring. It’s later than you cameras. Close to White Shul, Shor BR, 3 bths, split. All updated, in SD#14. think! Yoshuv and train. Separate entrance can be M/D with Joe Hersh, Noam Realty 212-431-1234 COMMERCIAL REAL Call Sherri 516-297-7995 proper permits. Owner motivated, pres- Far Rockaway — Beach 12th. 2 BR, 2 ent all offers...... $550K ESTATE FOR SALE 5 Towns Smolinsky Properties bth, w/d included, walk-in master clos- 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 516-295-4444 et, $1,400 including utilities. Woodmere — Open House by appt. Call Avi 516-351-3061 Hewlett — Col. MIC, 4br, 2bth, 2fpl, full Cedarhurst — Central Ave. corner 1 1025 Dartmouth Ln. Far Rockaway — On beach. Brand new deck, wood flr, Lg. den. Walk to all. story retail building for sale. 1100 sq. ft. 4BR Hi ranch. SD#14. Quiet street. MIC building, 1 & 2 BR available. Granite ...... $729K Great location. $550K Call 917-704-2950 Seller neg ...... $520K kitchens, balconies with water views, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-322-3555 Woodmere — Exclus. 1st show. Young Shabbos elevator, w/d hookup, parking. spacious 4BR col ...... $725K No renter’s fee! Starts at $1200. Law: Hi Ranch. Must see, 4br, 2.5bth, Lawrence — Exclus. 40 Lismore Rd. Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 fam rm, CAC, 2 car garage, large COMMERCIAL REAL 5BR 3.5bth col ...... $800s prop ...... $800sK Cedarhurst — Garden apt. Nu 2 Mkt. Woodsburgh — Exclus Mint 4000ft col. ESTATE FOR RENT Ced: Nu2Mkt, 2Fam, 3br/3br, 2fpl, 2BR. 2Bth, Mint, 1st Flr, heat & prk 6BR 7bth ...... $1.7M deck, all new, grt loc, full bsmt incld ...... $2,300 Lawrence — Exclus. Deal down. Huge ...... $795K 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Carlyle condo ...... $550K Williamsburgh — Penthouse office 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 space available. 3,000-7,000 sq. ft. rea- Lawrence — Coop Rental. 1BR. 1NU sonable rate. Contact David 917-417-5262 Far Rockaway: 2 Fam. All NU Lawrence — Wonderful c/h col. house Bth, LR, DR, EIK...... $1,300 3 over 3 Br. 4Fbth, Dr, Full bsmt on the nicest cul-de-sac there is. Brand Rockville Centre — 3,500 sq ft, fully 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 All features ...... $779K new kitchen, finished basement. Asking wired for Web, partitioned, will divide. Call 516-263-6417 Cedarhurst — All updated charming $875K Call 516-902-0936 Call 516-322-3555 Col. New granite EIK, FDR, LR with fireplace, 4+ BR, CAC, in the heart of Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth 5 Town Homes 516-569-5712 Far Rockaway — 2 Huge Office Spaces. Cedarhurst. Walk all. Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K Cedarhurst: NU 2 Mkt. Lg LR, DR, 6,000 and 2,500 Sq Ft. 2nd Floor. Near Call 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 Call 516-322-3555 EIK, Den, 5BR, 3bth, Skilits, Cabana, Subway & LIRR. Build to Suit. Can be Lg prop, IGPool, Walk to all . . . $659K divided. Owner 917-359-9776 Valley Stream: Nu 2 Mkt. Brick ranch, great condition, quiet street. Nu EIK, Far Rockaway: 2 Family. All NU, Classified Ads are LR, Den, Lg Prop ...... $409K 3 over 1 Bdrm, 3 full baths. Great Cedarhurst: Office rental: Executive 2 Continued on the Next Page. For Rent ...... $2,250 Location ...... $599K Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Call 516-322-3555 CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 69 CLASSIFIED ADS Continued from Page 69 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY FOR RENT Become an Acai Berry Juice distribu- tor and earn commission immediately. Online trainer, work from home, no Cedarhurst — NU House, CH Col., LR, investment, e-mail [email protected] FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 5BR., 3BTHS., Full Bsmt., Lg Bkyd...... $3,200 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 LOST AND FOUND

Far Rockaway — Large One Bedroom Apartment for rent. Beautiful elevator bldg. Nice tenancy. Great location at Lost tefillin Monday December 14 on Neilson and Cornaga, near Shor Yoshuv, Q22 or Q35 bus. Very precious. Reward. transportation, and shopping. Call anytime 917-608-1431 Asking $1,100. Call 718-692-2525 ext. 180 Earring found in Gourmet Glatt park- Valley Stream — All new beautiful large ing lot around 12/28. 516-216-0184 2 BR, EIK – FDR, upper of 2 family house, quiet residential street, includes heat and parking...... $1,700 MISCELLANEOUS 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710

Cedarhurst — All new, bright 3 BR, 1.5 bths, ground floor apt in 2-family house, Ocean Corp. Houston, Texas. Train for LR, FDR, EIK/ w new appliances, new New Career. Underwater Welder, carpet, w/d included, yard and parking. Commercial Diver, NDT/Weld Inspector. Walk all ...... $2,150 Job placement and financial aid for 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 those who qualify, 1-800-321-0298.

FOR SALE Deadline for Advertising in the Classifieds for Next Week is Brand name shells at shell-shocking prices. Discounted Kiki Rikis. Monday, January 11 3/4 length, long sleeve, sleeveless, 5:00 P.M. and cropped, cotton and lycra. Neima and David Bluth 516-612-4920, Call 516-569-0502 [email protected]

70 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 71 A Five Towns Simcha Photo By Naomi Cohen Of Glamorous Pics

Ayala Schwartz, daughter of Rabbi Yaacov and Chani Schwartz of Far Rockaway, celebrated her Bat Mitzvah with her friends and family. The Bat Mitzvah took place at Shaaray Tefila. Ayala is a student at TAG. Catering for the affair was by Silver Creek and music was provided by Ahuva Wolmark.

72 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

learn the basics of emergency medi- the Red Cross, said that the first-ever Hannah Rosenthal Teaching Teens cine that will train them to continue program could supply well-trained per- their studies at an MDA station and sonnel to the first-aid and ambulance Undermines Israel To Save Lives learn how to cope with mass catastro- organization. Outstanding graduates phes and work in an intensive care could later be trained as advanced BY BEN MEWLUKE BY BEN MEWLUKE ambulance. Each pupil will have a per- paramedics. sonal trainer and participate in This is an excellent idea that In a shocking breach of ethics and The Torah teaches us the mitzvah of lo advanced study at the hospital. Magen should be replicated here, in U.S. high protocol, Hannah Rosenthal, currently sa’amod al dam rayecha—do not stand David Adom, the Israeli equivalent of schools. O the director of the State Departments idly by the blood of your fellow. Office to Monitor and Combat Anti- It seems now that an institution in Semitism, severely criticized Israeli Israel is taking the idea behind this Ambassador Michael Oren’s decision mitzvah so seriously that it is making not to attend the recent conference of it part of its high school curriculum J Street, the controversial arguably requirements. The Ayanot Youth anti-Zionistic left-wing political group. Village near Ness Ziona will offer life- Ms. Rosenthal, a former J Street saving courses for a matriculation board member, called Oren’s refusal exam at a level of five units in the next “most unfortunate” and said he “would school year. Ness Ziona is located in have learned a lot” had he attended the the area of the Gan Raveh Regional conference. The conference was held Council. The Ayanot Youth Village is in Washington in October. owned and operated by Na’amat, part It is unprecedented for an official of of the Histadrut. the U.S. government to push the agen- According to a report in the da of their former group by criticizing Jerusalem Post, a senior team from a foreign ambassador for refusing to Magen David Adom and Assaf Harofeh participate in a conference. Mr. Oren, Medical Center in Tzrifin will teach in all probability, refused to attend the the courses jointly. The pupils will J Street conference because of its extreme positions which many people feel are dangerous to Israel’s security. Prior to Rosenthal’s appointment, Ed Lasky, news editor of the American Thinker, wrote, “Hannah Rosenthal does not care much for Israel...Furthermore, she is on the advisory council of J Street and J Street PAC—groups that pose as being pro-Israel but have certainly advo- cated positions that many have found inimical to the safety and security of Israel.” Although Rosenthal herself once pursued studies in Judaism, her personal commitment both to Jewish con- tinuity and to Israel’s security remains in question. O

And these are the names of the Children of Israel who came into Egypt: Reuven, Shimon, Levi, and Yehudah (Sh’mos 1:1–2) Although G-d had already counted them in their lifetime, He again counted them at the time of their death, to express His love for them. For they are like the stars, which He takes out and brings in by number and name; as it is written (Yeshayah 40:26): He takes out their hosts by number, He calls them each by name. (Rashi)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 73 5TJT Puzzle Page: Local Sports Teams

BY YONI GLATT

Across 61. Regret 10. Ages 1. Gov. organization 62. Tidy 11. Type of oppression 4. RC, e.g. 64. Where medicine might 2,000 years ago 8. Don Giovanni and Fidelio be made 12. Sports venue 14. Where to see Lost 67. San Francisco Pier 39 13. Jaunty 15. Bakers need natives 19. Some Avrahams, to 16. ___ borealis 71. Local basketball team friends 17. Soup option 75. By way of 21. Marty’s friend: past, 18. Local hockey team 76. Whole present, and future 20. Nitrous ___ 77. Gideon, e.g. 25. Pitching stat 22. After-dinner offer 78. Large, flightless bird 27. Place for a nap 23. Without 79. Short poem 28. At a great distance 24. Miners find 80. What or or follower 30. Toy truck brand 26. CEO degree, often 81. Abe Vigoda in The 31. Fit of shivering 29. No Godfather 32. Best known name where Solution on Page 78. 30. Local soccer team “everybody knows your name” 36. Pride source Down 33. Bobcats on the score- 37. Eureka! 1. Guitar gadget board 38. Former territory 2. Mountain goat found in 34. Major port city of Israel 54. Like America’s bird 65. Oxy target 42. “______up!” Israel 35. Hit the slopes 55. One from Melbourne 66. Disgusting idol 45. Basic necessity 3. Popular berry 39. Fairy tale monster 56. Angled letter 68. Central or Park 47. Hardship 4. Connect logically 40. Bugs or Mickey 57. World’s longest mountain 69. South America capital 48. Jew 5. Eggs 41. Cinema, photography, etc. range 70. First king 50. Charge 6. Where many basketballers 43. Kind of tree 58. French author who wrote 72. Anger 52. Go bad find it hard to go 44. Type of sofer about Nemo 73. Tennis call 53. Local baseball team 7. Put chips in 46. “Stand” band 59. Some Achva trips 74. JetBlue seat features 57. 1st or 2nd in NYC 8. Yutz 49. Hatzolah letters 63. Tease 60. School at YU 9. Lungs prefix 51. Bobble a grounder

74 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 1960, by the same title. Paul Jewish Hero Yitzhak Ahronovitch Passes Away Newman, although halachically not Jewish, felt an affinity for his father’s people and BY RABBI YAIR known as the Exodus. determined to keep them out. least 40. Ultimately, they were starred in the movie in memo- HOFFMAN He picked up Holocaust The British created a block- deported to France and to ry of his father who had passed refugees who wished to sneak ade. Yitzhak tried breaking Germany. But they earned the away ten years earlier. Even in the few years imme- into Palestine on July 11, 1947 at a through the blockade one world’s sympathy while being It is thought that this voyage diately after the Nazis had been port in Sete, France. The ship week after they had set sail, on jailed by the British. helped create the atmosphere defeated, the British still did that ultimately allowed the not allow Jews to enter State of Israel to be declared. Palestine. This was particularly The incident, the book, and the cruel because these were state- At the young age of 23 he took command of movie were instrumental in get- less Holocaust survivors. ting support for the fledgling A remarkable Jewish hero, state that would soon become Yitzhak Ahronovitch, did not the now famous ship known as the Exodus. Israel, for the newborn state, stand by doing nothing. As a and for a 12-year-old country former member of the filled with Holocaust survivors. Palmach, he sailed on British Ahronovich passed away at and Norwegian merchant ships had over 4,500 men, women, July 18. The British rammed the The entire tale was written the age of 86 in Eretz Yisrael. His during World War II. At the and children. The young captain ship and shot two and killed up in a book by Leon Uris survivors include two daugh- young age of 23 he took com- was determined to get his ship two of the passengers, one called “Exodus.” A movie was ters, seven grandchildren, and mand of the now famous ship into Palestine. The British were crewman, and wounded at made starring Paul Newman in two great-grandchildren. O

The more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew (Sh’mos 1:12) What is the meaning of the verse (Yirmiyah 11:16) in which the Jewish people are called a leafy olive tree, fair with goodly fruit? Just as the olive is marked out for shriveling while it is yet on its tree, after which it is brought down from the tree and beaten, and after it has been beaten is brought up to the vat and placed in a grinding mill, where it is ground and then tied up with ropes, and then stones are brought, and then at last it yields its oil, so it is with Israel: the hea- thens come and beat them about from place to place, imprison them and bind them in chains, and surround them with officers, and then at last do Israel repent and G-d answers them. (Midrash Rabbah)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 75 76 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES for fans to worship in case their Spadine Ave. (COR Supervision) sports arena—the Coliseum in Coliseum was built using the Super Bowl sports viewership coincides with has two stands in Canada. Rome—as the impetus behind spoils of war. The war was with a time of mandatory prayer. KSI’s While many Jews are cheering their rejection of professional the Hebrews, and the plunder Attendees To website lists prayer times for for the increase in kosher food at sports. used to pay for the building each of their locations. At Oriole sports arenas in North America, In 2001, Cinzia Conti, the was taken from the Holy Enjoy Bowls Of Park, a minyan is coordinated in others are calling for observant Director of Surface Restoration Temple, which was sacked two the middle of the 5th inning, Jews to get down from the at the Coliseum in Rome con- years prior to the beginning of Kosher Food while at Prudential Center, prayer bleachers. The venerated 11th firmed that inscriptions deci- work on the Roman arena. is in between periods 2 and 3. century Torah commentator phered at the site say the (Arutz Sheva) O BY MALKAH FLEISHER Kosher Sports is under the Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki—better supervision of the Star-K Kosher known as Rashi—warned Jews American Jews who live to see Certification, based in away from sports arenas almost their favorite football team slide Baltimore, Maryland. 1,000 years ago. According to the into the lead at the yearly Bowl Kosher Sports is not the only rabbi considered to be the father games can now enjoy it with a purveyor of kosher concessions of all Torah commentators, the kosher slider. Kosher Sports Inc. in the United States. Strikly Torah admonition against “per- (KSI), a New York-based kosher Kosher (under the supervision form[ing] the practice of the land concessions provider geared to of the Vaad of Queens) has two of Egypt in which you dwelled” the sports industry, has signed a stands in New Jersey, Ouri’s (Vayikra 18:3) includes atten- contract to provide kosher food Kosher Caterers (OK supervi- dance at sports stadiums. Other to this year’s Pro Bowl and Super sion) has a stand at New York’s opponents refer to the construc- Bowl games at Dolphin Stadium Yankee Stadium, and Olde tion of the world’s most famous in Miami, Florida. This will be the first time kosher fare will be available at the events, which will take place in February. On the menu for this year’s football finals: Abeles & Heymann frankfurters, Italian sausages, and knoblewurst, as well as grilled salami sliders. While they provide knishes, pretzels, non-dairy hot chocolate, and beer to their patrons, they also frequently provide a venue

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 77 Solution To This Week’s 5TJT Puzzle: Local Sports Teams

Puzzle appears on page 74.

78 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 8, 2010 79 80 January 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES