The Lag Ba'omer Top 10

May 11, 2017 | Published Bi-Weekly | 15 Iyar, 5777 Issue #53

JEWISH LINK May 12- 16 Iyar 5777 Parshat Emor CANDLE Light Candles: 7:45 PM Riverdale's Family-Owned BBRONX,rokerage Since 196 WESTCHESTER6 & CONNECTICUT LIGHTING Shabbat Ends: 8:54 PM Established 1966 • Morris and Marilyn Sopher Vice President Mike Pence said Trump Wavers on Moving that Trump was “seriously consid- ering” moving the U.S. Embassy during a Washington event cele- Embassy to Jerusalem brating Israel’s Declaration of Inde- pendence in 1948. Trump, however, departing During a press conference with from traditional U.S. policy, cited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin during his election campaign that Netanyahu in February, President Call Dr. Donath at: he would move the U.S. Embassy Trump said regarding the reloca-

Den Great room 914-259-8103Part of kitchen to Jerusalem. “We will move the tion, “I’d love to see that happen. See ad on page 3 American embassy to the eternal We’ll see what happens.” capital of the Jewish people, Jeru- Since taking office, Trump has Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. salem,” Trump told the American said that he would like to see the Award-winning, energy-efficient solar home in move-in condition! Winner of 2009 Yonkers Greenie Award for energy-efficient renovation. Originally constructed in the 1970s, this house was renovated and expanded with new plumbing, electric service, Energy Star Israel Public Affairs Committee in windows, and a solar system that can provide 30%-50% of your energy needs. Five bedrooms (two with master bathrooms) plus hall March 2016. As late as last week, ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 11 bathroom and powder room. Beautiful new kitchen, sun-filled great room for living and dining, den/library with pellet stove and access to rear yard. Large garage with storage space and rec room or office with private entrance on ground foor. Central AC and ceiling fans. Located steps from Riverdale in lovely Van Cortlandt Crest, Yonkers. ASKING PRICE REDUCED! $1,125,000. Time and Patience:

The US Embassy in Tel Aviv (CREDIT: KOBI RICHTER/TPS) A Broader Perspective

(TPS and combined sources) US salem as the undivided capital of Is- By Rabbi mained idle in a driveway and 32_01__Sadkhin_New_Ad_Robert.pdfPresident 1 23.05.2016 Donald 22:59:15 Trump has de- rael and states that the US embassy Jeffrey Beer was meticulously cared for. Per- See ad on page 27 cided that he will not move the US should be established in the capital. haps this word play has actual- Embassy to Jerusalem and will sign This is not the first time that a Words can ly redefined the word “used” over the waiver delaying the move of the US President has used his power take on dif- the course of time. Who knows? US Embassy from Tel Aviv to Israel’s of veto against the law. Former US ferent mean- Marketing campaigns aside, if capital by six months. The Israe- Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. ings depend- we take a moment to think about Outdoor Pool Hayden House Private Patio li news source, NRG, reported that Bush and Barack Obama all vetoed ing upon our it, as we learn more and grow the U.S. has decided not to move the act as well, signing a waiver own preconceptions. These per- throughout our lives, we have CONDO LISTING! Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. Rarely available: Jr. 4 condo at popular Hayden House, West of the Henry Hudson Parkway, in a fine residential neighborhood. Living room, bedroom, dining room/den/or second bedroom with closet, renovated open kitchen (with pantry closet), and renovated bathroom. Den opens to enormousits embassy to Jerusalem, citing un- postponing the law’s implementa- ceptions are the target of the mar- the ability to re-evaluate and re- patio (see picture)! Full-service, pet-friendly doorman building with workout room, outdoor pool, and tennis court. $596,000. named sources. tion every six months, citing na- keting and media campaigns that consider the words and ideas that The US President would veto tional security reasons. The waiver, we are inundated with on a reg- have been a part of our vernacu- the enactment of the Jerusalem Em- which was last signed in October ular basis. For instance, in recent lar for many years. For example, $50 OFF bassy Act, a law that was passed by 2016 by former President Obama a years, “used” cars have been adver- the words “individuality” and “pa- Congress in 1995, according to the month before he left office, is set to tised as “pre-owned.” Pre-owned tience” create very specific percep- See ad on page 17 NRG report. The act recognizes Jeru- expire at the end of May. sounds so much better than used. tions, especially when applied to In our minds, we picture a used raising and educating our children. Schools car as a beaten-up jalopy, where- WTA Celebrates Yom as a pre-owned car is one that re- ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 21 201-343-6100 Ha’atzmaut With Sports New Listing at The Windsors co-op. New rental listing in pet-friendly doorman Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. This is a home for Yeshiva University Sunny South-facing one bedroom building in Central Riverdale, West of the Henry those who need lots of space and who crave huge rooms! apartment with large terrace, windowed kitchen, Hudson Parkway. One bedroom renovated Seven very large bedrooms, modern kitchen, den, three Festivitiesfull dining foyer, and bathroom. Doorman building apartment on low floor. Walk to everything! bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms. Large living room Inaugurates First-Ever with pool and health club, convenient to For immediate occupancy. Seewith woodbu adrning fireplace. Front and second-door porches. transportation. Monthly maintenance $2150/month. Double lot with vegetable garden! Located just over theBy Tamar Weinberg includes gas, electricity, and central onRiver dapagele, N.Y.C. b34order in upscale Van Cortlandt Hall of Fame Class air conditioning. $220,000. Crest, Yonkers. $929,000. Westchester Torah Academy in JASON BERG New Rochelle had what many stu- SPONSOR APARTMENTS dents, including four-year-old Sa- No muss, no fuss, no co-op board approval required—just purchase and move in! rah Weinberg, called its “best day We are expecting some new listings soon. ever.” Starting with a parade that RENTALS involved 125 students and community rabbis, includingRi Rabbiver Chaimdal e's Family-Owned Brokerage Since 1966 All sizes, all price ranges: In apartment buildings, condos, private homes, multi-family houseMarders. from the Hebrew Institute WTA students celebrate Yom Availability changes daily so call us with your requirements. of White Plains and Rabbi Shmu- Ha’atzmaut at school. Established 1966 • Morris and Marilyn Sopher el Greenberg of the Young Isra- Licensed Real Estate Brokers: Marilyn Sopher, Barbara Sopher, Jonathan Sopher, Lisa Sopher. Call Vivian Oleen, el of White Plains, the contingent It was a beautiful day with ex- Associate Broker: Vivian J. Oleen. Salespersons: Edythe Margolin, Ana G. Pena, Adam Rudes, Vivian Xidiaris Associate Broker, marched around the entire school, cellent weather to raise flags, sing 6132 Riverdale Avenue at 261st Street, Riverdale, NY 10471 at MARILYN SOPHER, 718-601-4000x127 REjoinedALTOR by students from Westches- songs and lead cheers, not to men- ÂÂ SEE ARTICLE ON P. 32 Visit us on the web at www.sopherrealty.com | Or e-mail us atSee msop adherc ono@a Backol.com Cover ter Hebrew High School and the Ke- Ten hall of famers or their representatives stand in front of the new Hall of hilla Early Childhood Center. ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 30 Fame Wall in the Max Stern Athletic Center.

THE THE ROTHENBERG ROTHENBERGLAW FIRM LLP INJURED? years LAW FIRM LLP 800.624.8888 I InjuryLawyer.com A Proud History 45of Success NEW YORK I HACKENSACK I LAKEWOOD I CHERRY HILL I PHILADELPHIA

Den Great room Part of kitchen

Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. Award-winning, energy-efficient solar home in move-in condition! Winner of 2009 Yonkers Greenie Award for energy-efficient renovation. Originally constructed in the 1970s, this house was renovated and expanded with new plumbing, electric service, Energy Star windows, and a solar system that can provide 30%-50% of your energy needs. Five bedrooms (two with master bathrooms) plus hall bathroom and powder room. Beautiful new kitchen, sun-filled great room for living and dining, den/library with pellet stove and access to rear yard. Large garage with storage space and rec room or office with private entrance on ground foor. Central AC and ceiling fans. Located steps from Riverdale in lovely Van Cortlandt Crest, Yonkers. ASKING PRICE REDUCED! $1,125,000. 1

Outdoor Pool Hayden House Private Patio

CONDO LISTING! Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. Rarely available: Jr. 4 condo at popular Hayden House, West of the Henry Hudson Parkway, in a fine residential neighborhood. Living room, bedroom, dining room/den/or second bedroom with closet, renovated open kitchen (with pantry closet), and renovated bathroom. Den opens to enormous patio (see picture)! Full-service, pet-friendly doorman building with workout room, outdoor pool, and tennis court. $596,000.

New Listing at The Windsors co-op. New rental listing in pet-friendly doorman Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. This is a home for Sunny South-facing one bedroom building in Central Riverdale, West of the Henry those who need lots of space and who crave huge rooms! apartment with large terrace, windowed kitchen, Hudson Parkway. One bedroom renovated Seven very large bedrooms, modern kitchen, den, three full dining foyer, and bathroom. Doorman building apartment on low floor. Walk to everything! bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms. Large living room with pool and health club, convenient to For immediate occupancy. with woodburning fireplace. Front and second-door porches. transportation. Monthly maintenance $2150/month. Double lot with vegetable garden! Located just over the includes gas, electricity, and central Riverdale, N.Y.C. border in upscale Van Cortlandt air conditioning. $220,000. Crest, Yonkers. $929,000. SPONSOR APARTMENTS No muss, no fuss, no co-op board approval required—just purchase and move in! We are expecting some new listings soon. RENTALS All sizes, all price ranges: In apartment buildings, condos, private homes, multi-family houses. Availability changes daily so call us with your requirements.

Licensed Real Estate Brokers: Marilyn Sopher, Barbara Sopher, Jonathan Sopher, Lisa Sopher. Call Vivian Oleen, Associate Broker: Vivian J. Oleen. Salespersons: Edythe Margolin, Ana G. Pena, Adam Rudes, Vivian Xidiaris Associate Broker, 6132 Riverdale Avenue at 261st Street, Riverdale, NY 10471 MARILYN SOPHER, at 718-601-4000x127 REALTOR Visit us on the web at www.sopherrealty.com | Or e-mail us at [email protected] 2

Thinking of traveling?

LOWEST FARES TO ISRAEL, EUROPE & WORLDWIDE LOWESTEARLY BIRD SPRING FARES SPECIAL TO TOISRAEL ISRA NONSTOP- $ EL, EUROPE1019 AND WORLD- Depart BetweenWIDE May 1 & June 14 Including all taxes and fuel surcharges *Limited availability, restrictions apply

SUPER LOW FARES TO EUROPE

YOUR FULL SERVICE TRAVEL AGENCY

845.425.2123 | [email protected] | 20 Robert Pitt Dr #207, Monsey NY

AIRLINE HOTEL CELL PHONE TRAVEL CAR ISRAEL TICKETS RESERVATIONS RENTALS (PLUS) INSURANCE RENTALS TRIP PLANNER

2 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 2 3

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 3 3 4 WORLD NEWSBRIEFS

Israeli Leaders Congratulate we will continue to deepen our relations,” In Jab at Erdogan, Rivlin Notes “We have heard voices which attack Is- French President-Elect Macron concluded Netanyahu. Jerusalem’s Jewish Majority rael for building Jewish life in Jerusalem,” (Ilana Messika/TPS and combined sourc- French Ambassador to Israel Hélène Le Dates to Ottoman Period Rivlin said during a meeting with Archbish- es) Israeli parliamentarians from across the Gal told Army Radio on Monday morning (JNS.org) Israeli President Reuven Rivlin op of Canterbury Justin Welby in Jerusa- political spectrum congratulated French that Macron would be very positive for Is- Tuesday sought to counter Turkish President lem, referring to Erdogan’s statements. “I President-elect Emmanuel Macron on his rael. According to Le Gal, Macron was “very Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s claim that Israel was must tell these people, for the last 150 years victory in the French presidential elections. impressed by the innovation and entrepre- attempting to “judaize” Jerusalem, with Riv- there has been a Jewish majority in Jerusa- The independent centrist and former econ- neurship” of the country when he visited lin noting the Jewish majority in Israel’s cap- lem. Even under the Ottoman Empire there omy minister won 65 percent of the votes Israel two years ago. ital dates back to the Ottoman period. was a Jewish majority in Jerusalem.” counted compared to far-right rival Ma- On the eve of the election, pro-Eu- The Ottoman Empire took over Jerusa- rine Le Pen who received 35 percent of the rope centrist Emmanuel Macron of the En lem in 1517, and the British seized control of votes, according to interim results from the Marche party, who in pre-election polls had the holy city 400 years later. French Interior Ministry. led by about 24 percentage points over far- Rivlin added, “Under Israeli sovereign- “I congratulate Emmanuel Macron right populist Marine Le Pen of the National ty, we continue to build Jerusalem, the eter- on being elected president of France,” Front party, said unilateral recognition of a nal capital of the Jewish people. There is no said Prime Minister Binyamin Netanya- Palestinian state would create instability and doubt Jerusalem is a microcosm of our abil- hu. “I look forward to working with Pres- damage France’s relationship with Israel. ity to live together. And we will continue ident-elect Macron to confront the com- “I defended the principle of a two-state to ensure freedom of religion for all faiths.” mon challenges and seize the common solution, and France’s commitment to that,” Following a speech at a Turkish con- opportunities facing our two democracies.” said Macron, recalling a 2015 visit to Israel as ference Monday in which he accused Is- “One of the greatest threats facing the France’s minister of economy. He added, “Uni- rael of “racist and discriminatory” policies world today is radical Islamic terror, which lateral recognition of Palestine, right now, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby against the Palestinians, Erdogan met with has struck Paris, Jerusalem and so many will undermine stability…[it would have] im- (left) and Israeli President Reuven Rivlin in Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Rami other cities around the world. France and plications in the loss of the entire [French] re- Jerusalem, May 9 Hamdallah in Istanbul, where the two re- Israel are longtime allies and I am sure that lationship with the State of Israel.” (CREDIT: MARK NEIMAN/GPO) portedly discussed ways to “protect Jerusa- lem against attempts of judaization.” April Tourism to Israel Breaks Monthly Record Since Country’s Founding (JNS.org) In April 2017, a record-breaking 349,000 tourists entered Israel, a 38-percent increase from April 2016 and the highest-ever figure for any month since Israel’s establishment in 1948. Additionally, between January and April 2017, 1.1 million tourists entered the Jewish state, an increase of 26 percent from the ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 7 JEWISH LINK BRONX, WESTCHESTER & CONNECTICUT TABLE OF CONTENTS World Newsbriefs...... Pages 4 & 7 Editorial...... Page 8 Commentary...... Page 8 Op-Ed...... Page 9 9 We can use your miles to get you World/Israel News...... Pages 10-11 USE YOUR on any flight Community News...... Pages 12-19 9 Your hotel and car rental in Israel Community Events...... Page 19 MILES 9 A luxurious private villa in Divrei Torah Jerusalem, Miami, the Berkshires, By Rabbi David Walk...... Page 20 Catskills or Poconos ANY WAY By Rabbi Gidon Rothstein...... Page 20 9 Pay your holiday vacation package Reflections From YOU WANT the Schoolhouse By Rabbi Jeffrey Beer...... Page 21 Books...... Page 22 No travel plans in your future? Call us today to find out Food & Wine Link...... Page 26 the many different ways we can help you maximize your miles & eliminate out-of-pocket expenses. Kosher Dinner Lady By Rachel Berger...... Page 26 Health Link...... Pages 27-29 646.801.PEYD (7393) www.getpeyd.com | [email protected] SCHOOLS...... Pages 30-31 Join the thousands of satisfied customers in Brooklyn who have trusted PEYD to help navigate the credit card rewards & travel industries. SPORTS...... Page 32 Real Estate Section...... Pages 33-36

4 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 4 5

For the first time in history, New York State will begin to reimburse nonpublic schools for science, technology, engineering and math teachers.

Teach NYS, a project of the Orthodox Union, helped secure close to $300 million in this year’s New York State budget for aid to nonpublic schools, including yeshivas and Jewish day schools. For the first time in the history of New York State, part of this funding will begin to reimburse our schools for science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) teachers. If we continue down this path, we can make a real difference for our schools.

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 5 5 6

A PROJECT OF CHABAD’S JEWISH DISCOVERY CENTER

At Radisson Lackawanna the historic Station hotel

Rabbi Shais Taub R’ Shea Rubenstein Y-Studs

Singles . Couples . Families . Empty-Nesters Relax & enjoy elegant Yom Tov meals in the Radisson’s grand ballroom with spirited singing, Telos, learning & inspiration. Spend quality time with your family in beautiful northeastern Pennsylvania.

SPECIAL OFFER! $399 PER PERSON PLUS THREE-NIGHT HOTEL STAY $360 PER ROOM

6 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 6 7 WORLD NEWSBRIEFS

ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 4 Israel portion of his trip but including the Volunteers and Israeli high school stu- president’s scheduled stops in Saudi Ara- dents began working on the first section same period in 2016 and 22 percent more bia and Rome. Democrats serving on the of the trail in March, with financing pro- than those months in 2015. U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee later vided by the Landmarks Project of Israel’s “When there is clear policy, we see re- posted a video highlighting the difference Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage. Region- sults. Every month, we are witnessing ex- between White House and Saudi embassy al councils and communities along the trail ceptional statistics that illustrate the pro- clips featuring Trump’s remarks. are also collaborating on the initiative. gress we are spearheading in the tourism Rep. Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.), the Foreign Af- industry and its tremendous contribution fairs Committee’s top-ranking Democrat, Abbas Says He Is Ready to Meet to the Israeli economy and workforce,” Is- wrote in a letter to Secretary of State Rex With Netanyahu ‘to Make Peace’ raeli Tourism Minister Yariv Levin said Tillerson that he was “appalled that the (JNS.org) Palestinian Authority (PA) Pres- Tuesday. U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia disingenu- Israel’s forthcoming “Sanhedrin Trail” will span ident Mahmoud Abbas said Tuesday he is “This important and exciting milestone ously posted this incomplete and mislead- the Lower Galilee between Tiberias and Beit ready to meet with Israeli Prime Minister is part of a positive trend that has been taking video.” She’arim National Park (pictured). Benjamin Netanyahu as part of President ing place over the last half year or more. I “This video plays into a rejectionist nar- (CREDIT: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS) Donald Trump’s renewed peace efforts. hope and believe that, with hard work, we rative and thus has no place in any social “We affirmed to [Trump] that we are will continue to reap the benefits of this in- media—or any other form of communi- Israel’s first “smart” hiking trail completed ready to cooperate with him and meet vestment,” Levin added. cation—associated with the United States by the spring of 2018. the Israeli prime minister under his aus- The significant rise in tourism to Isra- government,” Engel wrote. The 70-kilometer (43.5-mile) trail will pices in order to make peace,” Abbas told el comes despite higher costs for travelers, After the tweet’s removal, a State De- span the Lower Galilee between Tiberias reporters during a joint press conference due to the substantial strengthening of the partment official told Politico it was an “in- and Beit She’arim National Park, and will with German President Frank-Walter shekel currency in recent months. Incom- advertent mistake.” interface with an augmented reality-based Steinmeier. ing tourism during the first four months of “The U.S. Embassy in Riyadh shared a mobile app, designed to integrate historic The PA leader also stated he anticipates the year accounted for an estimated 6 bil- version of the video announcement from sites with current landscapes. a meeting with Trump during the U.S. pres- lion shekels ($1.7 billion) being infused into a private Saudi citizen’s social media ac- The app will virtually reconstruct her- ident’s first foreign trip abroad, saying, “We Israel’s economy. count. Unknowingly, the shared version itage sites from the Second Temple peri- are looking forward to [Trump’s] visit soon had been edited to remove the word ‘Isra- od more than 2,000 years ago, when the 71 to Bethlehem.” State Dept. Criticized for Omitting el,’” a State Department official said. “Upon members of the Great Sanhedrin court pre- This is the second time in a month that Trump’s Travel Plans to Israel learning this, the U.S. Embassy immediate- sided on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount. Abbas has stated his willingness to meet in Saudi Embassy Tweet ly corrected the error, took down the video “People such as Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi with Netanyahu. In April, the PA president (JNS.org) The U.S. State Department was and loaded the correct version to its social Yehuda HaNasi, the members of the Sanhe- told the Japanese newspaper Asahi Shim- criticized Monday for a tweet by its embas- media accounts.” drin who were active here 2,000 years ago, bun he is “ready to meet the prime minis- sy in Saudi Arabia that omitted President determined to a great extent much of how ter of Israel anytime in Washington under Donald Trump’s plan to visit Israel later this Israel’s First ‘Smart’ Hiking Trail our lives are run today,” said Yair Amitzur, the patronage of President Trump.” But in month, following his stop in Saudi Arabia. to Be Completed by Spring 2018 the IAA’s antiquities inspector for the East- the same interview, Abbas said peace talks The tweet, which was sent out by the (JNS.org) An initiative dubbed the “San- ern Galilee, reported Israel21c. “will be impossible as far as Israel’s coloni- Arabic-language Twitter handle @USAinK- hedrin Trail,” launched by the Israel Antiq- “The establishment of the trail and al-settlement enterprises continues.” Dur- SA, included a now-removed video clip of uities Authority (IAA) in cooperation with walking on it will connect those who live ing Tuesday’s press conference, Abbas said Trump’s announcement on his first for- Israel’s National Religious Education Ad- here today with the atmosphere and frame he is committed to a two-state solution eign trip, omitting Trump’s mention of the ministration, will see the construction of of mind of that period,” Amitzur added. based on the pre-1967 lines.

years A Proud History Injured? 45of Success

THE THE ROTHENBERG ROTHENBERGLAW FIRM LLP LAW FIRM LLP InjuryLawyer.com 800.624.8888

NEW YORK I HACKENSACK I LAKEWOOD I CHERRY HILL I PHILADELPHIA

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 7 7 8 EDITORIAL JEWISH LINK Can Jerusalem Be Fired? said last week, referring to middle east BRONX, WESTCHESTER & CONNECTICUT peace. Really? At what cost? Marking Lag B’Omer in 2017 Our ancestors were not ready when Co-Founders/Co-Publishers they left Egypt to receive the Torah after David Winter This is the time we remember Rabbi cial day when weddings are scheduled, their bondage. Chazal tells us that the Jews Moshe Kinderlehrer Mark (Mendy) Schwartz Akiva and his students and the teachings of haircuts are allowed, picnics are held and were at the 49th level of spirituality with 50 Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, the author of the we’re certain, weather permitting, celebra- being the lowest. The sin of the Golden Calf Associate Publisher/Editor Zohar and the fourth most mentioned sage tory bonfires marking the light of Rabbi remains forever a stain on our personal his- Elizabeth Kratz of the Mishnah. Shimon will light up the night. tories. Hashem waited for these 50 days be- Founding Partner, Rabbi Shimon could never forget the It’s also a time for reflection. That “cha- fore the Jewish people merited the Torah. Jewish Link Design Group terrible sight of his beloved master and metz” that we talked about at our seder ta- Let’s take a lesson here: Now is not the Adam Negnewitzky teacher, Rabbi Akiva, being tortured to bles, be it the issues of personal growth, the time to place faith in our US President. It is, Senior Editors death by the Roman executioners. work we have to do on ourselves, or the rather, more than ever, a time to place our Tamar Weinberg According to the Bnei Yissachar, on the ways we can show achdut as a communi- faith in Hashem. The Golden Calf taught Jill Kirsch day of his death, Rabbi Shimon bar Yo- ty, were parts of our Pesach conversations. us that we must never worship false gods. Associate Editor chai said, “Now it is my desire to reveal se- During the counting of this Omer, we Hashem can’t fire us and we can’t fire Him. Phil Jacobs crets... The day will not go to its place like have heard news these past weeks that have Jerusalem as our eternal capital can’t be fired any other, for this entire day stands with- concerned us, both as Jews and as Americans. either, whether the US Embassy is there or Advertising Director Yaakov Serle in my domain…” Daylight was miraculous- As we go to press, our opinions are hanging not. We’re in this together, and davening to ly extended until he had completed his fi- in the balance as to whether to trust that our Hashem for the sake of Jerusalem and for Production Editor nal teaching and died. As such, the custom US president, who made a campaign prom- all our brothers and sisters in Israel, can be Jennifer Hoffer of lighting fires on his yahrzeit symbolizes ise to move the embassy to Jerusalem, Isra- the only advice to give to one another as we Office Manager this revelation of powerful light. el’s eternal capital, has changed his mind. We approach Yom Yerushalayim on May 24 and Dena Kinderlehrer In The Ethics of Our Fathers, we find have no doubt that those with good names, Shavuot just six days later, marking the end Bookkeeper one of Rabbi Shimon’s most famous say- US Ambassador David Friedman, and our of the counting of the Omer. Gila Negnewitzky ings: “There are three crowns: the crown friend and favorite West Wing staffer Jason From our families to yours, we wish of the Torah, and crown of priesthood, and Greenblatt, would like for the President to you a beautiful Lag B’Omer with all the Sales Development Ken Goffstein the crown of royalty; but the crown of a honor his promise, but we just don’t know haircuts, bonfires and music you can man- good name excels above them all.” now whether this promise will be honored. age. We must celebrate together, b’simcha, Sales Representatives So here we are on the brink of the spe- “We will get it done,” President Trump as much as we mourn and pray. Josh Bernstein Risa Lefkowitz Rachel Ashendorf COMMENTARY Avi Koenig Simon Worman Database Coordinator 13 Reasons Why: The Need for More Dialogue Moishie Rosenberg Sports Editor By Michal Agus Fox by the teenagers. Reportedly, teenagers in erately socially excluded. Social exclusion, Steve Gutlove some classes were pushing back that the bullying, mean and cruel words, cyber bul- Two months ago, I school is only speaking about it now—as a lying and physical altercations can have se- Proofreader/Copy Editors Rivky Bergstein had never heard of 13 Rea- rious long-term effects on children. Some response to the show (they have a point...). Ruth Brody sons Why. I had no idea Unfortunately, in my opinion, some argue (including myself at times), that expe- that topics of suicide, schools made it very clear they will not dis- riencing these behaviors make children re- Contributors bullying, boys degrad- cuss these topics in school. Rather, when silient (“tough”), that kids will be kids, and Rachel Berger • Shneur Garb Jenny Gans • Sara Linder ing girls, low self-esteem, they gather groups of children together, we should focus on teaching children prob- Josh Warhit • Rachel Retter poor sense of self, violence, sexual assault they focus on mundane non-significant lem-solving skills, conflict resolution and Rabbi Gidon Rothstein • Rabbi David Walk and loneliness would be brought out in topics. Talk about the elephant in the room self-advocacy. True, this is appropriate to The Jewish Link of Bronx, Westchester such a dramatic, shocking and dangerous (I am currently reading Option B by Sher- teach to all children at all ages, but I wor- & Connecticut forum on Netflix. I had no idea that a show yl Sandberg, which I highly recommend). ry about the children that develop poor PO Box 1027 like this would be watched by millions These schools, in my opinion, are not al- self-esteem and a poor sense of self from Bronx, NY 10471 of youth before parents (myself included) lowing for conversations about social emo- experiencing these repetitive, targeted and Phone: 718-564-6710 would even find out about it. tional dialogue and healthy discussions negative types of behaviors. More impor- Email: [email protected] In the past month, I have watched 13 of signs of mental health issues. Current tant, when these ongoing behaviors are not Advertising: [email protected] Reasons Why twice. trends in best educational practice and re- addressed or recognized, it could lead to Subscriptions/Home Delivery: [email protected] Research indicates that by the age of 15, search indicate that middle school children depression, generalized anxiety disorders, approximately 20 percent of children will need these type of conversations as well; in social anxiety and suicidal ideation that The Jewish Link of Bronx, Westchester & Connecticut, an independent publication, promotes honest and rigorous conversations about Juda- have a mental health diagnosis (the issue of a developmentally appropriate way. could ultimately and tragically lead to end- ism, Israel and issues aff ecting our community. The opinions refl ect- mental health was not discussed in 13 Rea- In general, there is not much proactive ing a life. Hence, the popularity factor of 13 ed in articles from our contributors do not necessarily refl ect JLBWC’s positions, and publishing them does not constitute an endorsement sons Why). Death by suicide is now the sec- education in our schools about topics of Reasons Why. They chose the shock factor from JLBWC. We simply off er food for thought. We reserve the right ond leading cause of death in our teenagers mental health and suicide. route to get your attention and it worked. to accept or refuse submissions and edit for content and length. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising that in our opinion does not and there is a rise in middle school chil- Thankfully, now some schools are engag- However, the show was negligent. Suicide refl ect the standards of the newspaper. We are not responsible for the dren in thoughts of death by suicide. Yet, ing in dialogue with our children and teen- can be prevented. Unlike 13 Reasons Why, kashrus of any product advertised in the Jewish Link of Bronx, West- the community remained silent, until this agers. We need to educate ourselves and our there is hope and interventions can help. chester & Connecticut. show forced schools to acknowledge that children about mental health. It is my opin- Adults can be more educated on this and there might be a problem for our youth or ion that more professional development is children should be encouraged to seek help. someone smile. Offer to help someone at the least the show might be a trigger for needed so that when conversations begin, Ending a life is not the solution. 13 Reasons struggling with homework. Give a compli- some who are already at risk. the facilitators are comfortable and have Why gives suicide as the only solution and ment. Go out for coffee with someone that Many schools did their due diligence true understanding of mental illness, sui- the ultimate revenge fantasy. Mental health looks lonely. Invite someone to sit at your and wrote letters to parents warning cide, bullying, mean-girl behavior and sexu- can be spoken about publicly, proactively, in lunch table. Make a plan to hang out with them about the show. I saw many letters al assault. This might require bringing out- a healthy and age-appropriate way that could someone over the weekend. Answer a text. from both independent schools and Jew- side professionals with experience in these give children (and adults) the feeling that Include others in your conversation. Look ish schools. The letters were well thought areas to speak directly to students in mid- they are not alone. Because they aren’t alone, someone in the eye. Consider the negative out and gave parents tools on current ed- dle school and high school and help train or at least they shouldn’t be alone. There is impact that Snapchat can have on others. ucational practices (with links) in speaking teachers, mental health professionals and hope because now we are aware enough to Express gratitude (I heard Tal Ben Shachar to your own children at home about these parents to be more comfortable speaking continue these conversations in healthier speak about this yesterday—he was ex- topics. Many schools warned parents not about these serious topics in a more organ- ways. Not as a response to a TV show but in a cellent). These are small gestures that can to allow children to watch the show or at ic way. Kudos to SAR high school for invit- controlled research-driven approach. make a huge difference and can help chil- least to watch the show with your child ing parents in to speak about the show in a At the end of the day, all kids and adults dren and young adults feel less isolated and and have conversations and open dialogue. morning breakfast with their psychologists. want to feel included and feel like someone more connected, gain positive self-esteem Some schools have attempted conver- I think that is a great beginning. Statistical- cares about them. They want to be treated and ultimately feel a reason to choose life. sations with children successfully. Other ly, mental health issues are only on the rise. with respect and feel valued. We can work schools have tried but not all profession- What worries me most are the long- together in helping each other treat each Michal Agus Fox is married to Dr. Natie Fox. They have als are equipped or comfortable discussing term (research supported) consequences other with dignity, compassion and integ- four children and live in Englewood. Michal is a school these topics, and their awkwardness is felt of kids that are being rejected and delib- rity. Small acts of kindness can go far. Make psychologist at a private Jewish day school in NYC. 8 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 8 9 OP-ED

Jewish publications like Haaretz and the The Jewish Left’s Anti-Semitism Problem Forward is to manufacture a steady stream of defamations of Israel as grist for the an- By Bruce Abramson around the country. But the outrage on the less repugnant. Hillary Clinton handed ti-Semites’ mills. & Jeff Ballabon left persisted only as long as it could blame them an entire evening at the Democratic In assessing this shocking record, it’s Trump and his allies for the hatred. Upon convention to promote their war on Amer- easy to dismiss this leftist inversion of re- Jewish progres- investigation, the internet attacks originat- ica’s cops, and to promote intersectional ality as cynical partisan politics. But what sives have a serious ed from fewer than 2000 sources, half of support for all other struggles. Israel and if it’s not? What if Jewish progressives real- problem with an- them in Ukraine or Russia. The JCC threats the Jews rank high on the list of intersec- ly believe their own press? What if the anti-Semitism. They were the work of a Jewish Israeli-American tional oppressors, evidenced not only by guish they’re expressing is from their kish- deny it where it’s teenager. Concern on the Jewish left evapo- blood-libel claims of an Israeli-perpetrated kes rather than just tactical manipulation obvious, and fight passionately against it rated overnight. genocide, but by the frequent burning of as part of their progressive agenda? What if where it doesn’t exist. Jewish progressives are deeply con- Israeli flags among advocates of unrelated they are reporting honestly on threats they In 2017 alone, the Jewish left has em- cerned about white supremacists, person- progressive causes (including at the Demo- perceive, and embracing those they truly braced Keith Ellison, Linda Sarsour and ified by old-school David Duke, alt-right cratic convention). consider friends to the Jews? Rasmeah Odeh. It has savaged President Richard Spencer and occasional parades of Despite the black supremacists’ overt If so, then today’s Jewish progressives Trump, Steve Bannon and Sebastian Gorka. Nazis or Klansmen. But despite the tremen- anti-Semitism, Jewish progressives, like all have completed a long journey. To them, Who are these people? dous burst of free publicity the media has progressives, have embraced their agenda progressivism and Judaism are more than Ellison is a former spokesman for Lou- showered upon these odious groups in an enthusiastically. On the rare occasion that merely compatible, they are synonymous. is Farrakhan’s Nation of Islam. Sarsour is a attempt to magnify the threat, their mem- the leftist Jew-hatred becomes too obvi- To them, it is inconceivable that either pro- Hamas supporter and BDS advocate. Odeh bership is negligible, they are utterly reject- ous and extreme for even progressive Jews gressivism or Judaism would ever fail to is a terrorist, convicted of murdering Jews ed and marginalized on the right and they to ignore, they invariably find a way to champion the cause of justice—as they per- because they were Jews. wield zero influence. Meanwhile, the left blame Israel—the victim—for having pro- ceive it. Their progressivism defines their President Trump has embraced visibly mainstreams and lionizes black suprema- voked the attacks. Indeed it often seems as observant Jews, and the State of Israel, with cist groups—whose views on Jews are no though the primary mission of progressive ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 11 a warmth virtually unprecedented among world leaders. Steve Bannon is a staunch American nationalist who surrounded himself with Jews at Breitbart and in the White House, and who sees Israel as America’s primary ally in a civilizational death-strug- PLAYING AN gle against radical Islam. Sebastian Gorka destroyed his own promising political career in Hungary when he publicly repudi- ated the anti-democratic and anti-Semitic attitudes animating other members of the Hungarian right. When the broader progressive movement—which now controls the Demo- cratic Party—selected Ellison, Sarsour and Odeh as champions of their future, the Jew- INSTRUMENTAL ish progressives plunged right in. Endorse- ments and expressions of support gushed forward—evidence of their heroes’ ob- scene Jew hatred be damned. Meanwhile, Haaretz and the Forward— two leading publications of the Jewish left that have never shied away from attrib- uting vile motives to Jewish residents of Judea and Samaria—determined that lifelong pillar of the Jewish community, observant Jew, philanthropist, Zionist and staunch Israel advocate Ambassador David Friedman, was anti-Semitic because of con- tempt he expressed for the anti-Israel libels and political machinations of J Street. Increasingly, Haaretz and the Forward are coming to resemble proudly anti-Isra- el and anti-Semitic propagandists such as Mondoweiss and Electronic Intifada. Last month, Haaretz published a piece arguing PART IN YOUR SIMCHA... graphically that Israel’s religious Zionist sector was worse than rampaging Arab ter- rorists. The article drew widespread outrage and condemnation, from the Prime All of our customers receive our Minister on down. Haaretz stands reso- lutely behind the piece. Eli Clifton, whose undivided attention and unparalleled rhetoric of overt Jew-hatred was con- professionalism, benefiting from our demned across the political spectrum just five years ago (including by the ADL, the creativity and years of experience. Obama White House and the National Jewish Democratic Council), has now been given a platform at the Forward, where he Contact us to help you plan an affair serves as the bridge between that progres- you will never forget. sive Jewish flagship and the anti-Semitic fulminations of his other publisher, Elec- tronic Intifada. Of course, Jewish leftists did express outrage against two genuinely concern- ing outbreaks of anti-Semitism. The first involved anti-Semitic email and internet 718.256.7200 attacks against Jewish journalists critical of the Trump campaign. The second was ORCHESTRA & PRODUCTIONS aaronteitelbaumproductions.com a series of bomb threats called into JCCs 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 9 9 10 WORLD/ISRAEL NEWS From Caves to Shaves: the Lag Ba’Omer Top 10

By Deborah Fineblum/JNS.org is believed the light of day miraculously lingered until he finished and died. Light- Lag Ba’Omer isn’t one of the best-known ing bonfires on his yahrtzeit honors the ex- Jewish holidays—though some may notice tended light. If your local fire department that the men whose faces have grown fair- frowns on such displays, try a barbecue or ly fuzzy following Passover are suddenly picnic. The best part of the bonfires, says clean-shaven again. Rabbi Michael Beals of Congregation Beth But understanding the holiday’s true Shalom in Wilmington, Del., might be the meaning requires traveling back in time “guitars and lots of singing of Hebrew folk- 2,000 years, to the era of Rabbi Akiva. songs.” Or these days, adds the rabbi, “it’s On the 33rd day of the Omer count- also most definitely the s’mores.” ing period—running 49 days from the second day of Passover to the Shavuot holi- Visit an archery range. day—Jews cease to mourn the deaths of It is said both Rabbis Akiva and Shi- 24,000 of Rabbi Akiva’s students. Accord- mon were so holy that during their life- ing to the Talmud, a deadly plague caused time, all rainbows—the reminder of God’s by the students’ disrespect for each oth- promise to never to destroy the world af- Lag Ba’Omer festivities at Meron—home of the tomb of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai—in northern er stopped abruptly on the 18th day of the ter the flood of Noah’s era—were sus- Israel, May 7, 2015 Hebrew month of Iyar, coinciding with pended. Bows and arrows, then, are a Lag (CREDIT: MEIR VAKNIN/FLASH90) Lag Ba’Omer. Ba’Omer tradition. Israeli youngsters tend Only five students survived the scourge, to use rubber-tipped arrows for safety rea- sources, says Vickie Carson, public infor- Arlene Scharf, who runs the kashrut.com including famed sage Rabbi Shimon bar sons. But even those can be lethal, warns mation officer at Kentucky’s Mammoth website. Yochai (“Rabbi Shimon” for short), whose Thomas Herrington, owner of the Ace Arch- Cave National Park. yahrtzeit (anniversary of death) falls on ers range in Foxboro, Mass. “They can kill Take a trip to Meron. Lag Ba’Omer. On his deathbed, the rabbi in- a squirrel or rabbit on impact,” he says. “So Bake carob brownies. The most authentic Lag Ba’Omer experi- structed his students to mark the date as leave yourself lots of space.” How did Rabbi Shimon and his son ence comes, not surprisingly, in Israel, where “the day of my joy.” survive those 13 years? Miraculously, a you can join some 250,000 Jews at the tomb Through the centuries, Lag Ba’Omer has Explore a cave. carob tree at the mouth of the cave and of Rabbi Shimon in Meron, near the spiritual- remained a celebratory day. Here are the According to the Talmud, Rabbi Shi- a freshwater spring sustained them. To- ly endowed northern city of Safed (Tzfat). At top 10 ways to fete it: mon and his son Rabbi Eleazar hid from day, dining on carob treats—carob brown- Meron, the large crowd celebrates the trans- the Romans in a cave in northern Israel ies in particular—is a tribute to these mir- mission of the Zohar, the foundational text of Build a bonfire. for 13 years. But today’s spelunkers need acles. “Since the powder is just ground-up Jewish mysticism authored by Rabbi Shimon. Before his death, Rabbi Shimon prom- to take precautions, specifically traveling carob, there’s no need for a hechsher [ko- ised to reveal deep mystical secrets, and it in groups and taking along multiple light sher certification]” on carob powder, says ÂÂ CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE Building your lives together? Start with the cornerstone of every Jewish home.

Get the Talmud PDFs FREE with every set!

Koren Talmud Bavli Koren Talmud Bavli Classic Steinsaltz Talmud Complete set - 38 Volume The Noé Edition Hebrew edition This special edition of the brilliant Steinsaltz 42 volume set Complete set - 44 Volumes Talmud includes the classic Vilna Talmud page. Subscribe or buy the set in advance! This classic Steinsaltz Talmud empowers learners to solve the The newest edition of the Koren Talmud Bavli fosters linguistic and contextual issues in the text. With punctuation deep and creative engagement with the text. Features on each page, explanatory notes, detailed indexes, and the Vilna page (menukad) and bilingual section with background from the sciences, history, and more. modern English translation, brilliant notes, and commentary by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, color photos, maps, diagrams and more.

FREE WEDDING GIFT WITH EVERY SET! FREE Koren Shir Tziyon Birkon – set of 6 with elegant design, full range of zemirot, and breathtaking color photos of Israel!

KOREN PUBLISHERS JERUSALEM Available online and at your www.korenpub.com | 02-633-0508 local Jewish bookstore

10 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 10 11 WORLD/ISRAEL NEWS

ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE ing the Omer, making Lag Ba’Omer the day Cheer at a parade. Embassy to Jerusalem for men to get out the razor and remove a The “Great Parade” is a time-honored ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 1 Cut a 3-year-old boy’s hair. month’s worth of facial hair. “This has got Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic tradition since to be our favorite Jewish holiday,” quips Irv 1987, when movement leader Rabbi Men- move take place eventually, not right Kempner, a former vice president of Gil- achem Mendel Schneerson instituted it. away. lette, a Fortune 500 company that makes This year’s parades will take place in cit- Trump is expected to arrive in Israel its fortune on razors and electric shavers. ies including Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, for a one day visit on May 22, a day before Toronto, Montreal, Detroit, London, Paris, Israel celebrates the 50th anniversary of Get married (or attend a wedding). Jerusalem, Johannesburg and Melbourne. the capital’s liberation on Jerusalem Day. Along Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, New This will be Trump’s first visit as US Pres- York, the home of Chabad headquarters, ident to the Jewish state. He will address 35,000 parade-goers are expected to line a range of regional issues during his visit. the streets, while 100,000 will watch on- At press time, The Jerusalem Post line. Parade organizer Rabbi Shimon and The Algemeiner have reported that Hecht says, “What greater way to display Israel is denying these reports. Also, The Jewish pride and unity than by gathering Times of Israel is reporting that Deputy thousands of Jews together and marching Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders The custom to give a first haircut to proudly in the streets?” has refused to confirm the reports. 3-year-old boys (upsherin) in Meron on Lag Ba’Omer dates back to the early Kabbalists. Today, many Jewish parents around the Anti-Semitism ues compel the West to embrace refugees world still use the holiday for boys’ first ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 9 from a virulently Jew-hating culture, any- haircuts. “I don’t know if Ari remembers one concerned about the implications of much; it was nearly 28 years ago and he’s Judaism. The logical calculation is simple; importing that Jew-hatred stands against getting married in three weeks,” says Alane the emotional identification is complete: Jewish values. Schreiber of Sharon, Mass., recalling her Progressive values define justice. Judaism The Jewish progressives’ problem with son’s upsherin on Lag Ba’Omer. “But I still stands for justice. Therefore, progressive anti-Semitism is clear: Those who view have his long, blonde ponytail.” values define Jewish values. QED. In their progressivism as synonymous with Ju- Since Jewish weddings are prohibited world, any attack on progressivism is defi- daism inevitably conclude that anti-pro- Attend a concert. during the Omer’s mourning period, many nitionally an attack on Judaism. gressivism is synonymous with anti-Sem- While the counting of the Omer can be couples longing for spring nuptials will grab When President Trump embraces visi- itism. Thus Haaretz declares peace-loving, gloomy, all mourning is lifted on the 33rd Lag Ba’Omer as their wedding date. Yael and bly Orthodox Jews committed to tradition patriotic Israelis “more dangerous than day. Since the prior days’ Jewish legal pro- Rabbi Yosef Resnick of Massachusetts tied and faith and proud of Israel’s culture and Hezbollah.” Thus the Forward embraces hibitions include listening to live music, the knot on Lag Ba’Omer in 1993. “We felt values, he repudiates the progressivism progressive feminist leaders who call for you can happily attend a concert on Lag that connection, and learned about Rabbi central to leftist Judaism. When Republi- the destruction of the the Jewish state— Ba’Omer. Shimon bar Yochai and the significance of cans value Israel as a front-line ally in the while labeling White House officials lead- the date,” Yael says. “I don’t think it’s a coin- war to preserve Western civilization, they ing the charge to roll back Iranian nuclear Shave. cidence that after we got married and went establish the Jews’ status as part of the weapons “anti-Semites.” Refraining from shaving is another Jew- to Tzfat for several months, the apartment oppressor class. Because progressive val- We have met the enemy and he is us. ish mourning tradition implemented dur- we rented was on Bar Yochai Street.”

Our Jewish Future. it’s a GOOd investment.

Through UJA’s Day School Challenge Fund, we’re building endowments for 21 participating day schools and yeshivas — and the schools have already raised $21 million.

Help ensure a brighter future for our schools and our kids. Contribute to your school’s Day School Challenge Fund.

Learn more. ujafedny.org/day-schools

JIM JOSEPH FOUNDATION Shimon ben Joseph

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 11 11 12

בס"ד

You are cordially invited to the Tal Campus Groundbreaking Ceremony

in the presence of the Mayor of Jerusalem, Government Ministers and Members of the Knesset on Tuesday May 23 (Iyar 27) at 4.30 p.m. at the Jerusalem College of Technology - Lev Academic Center 21 Havaad Haleumi Street, Givat Mordechai, Jerusalem

This event on the eve of Jerusalem Day will mark the contribution of JCT to the advancement and development of Jerusalem in the framework of the 50th anniversary celebration of the uniﬁcation of the city Program:

4.30 p.m. Reception 5.00 p.m. Groundbreaking Ceremony 6.00 p.m. Student Projects Exhibition and Campus Tour 7.00 p.m. Teﬁllat Mincha 7.15 p.m. Yom Yerushalayim Shiur by Rav Yosef Zvi Rimon, Rosh Hayeshiva 7.55 p.m. Festive Teﬁllat Maariv in honor of Yom Yerushalayim followed by dancing and light refreshments

Please join us on Thursday May 25 (Iyar 29) for a tour to leading JCT hi-tech companies and IDF projects followed by fruit picking for needy families and BBQ dinner hosted by Sandy Colb, Chairman, JCT Board of Trustees Program:

10.00 a.m. Depart Lev Campus, 21 Havaad Haleumi Street, Givat Mordechai, Jerusalem 10.30 a.m. Civan Technologies 12.00 p.m. Cisco (NDS) Lunch 2.30 p.m. Visit army base near Rishon Le Zion 5.00 p.m. Fruit picking and BBQ dinner, Hatov V’Hameitiv Farm, Rechovot

8.00 p.m. Return to Lev Campus A rt© O fr a F

To R.S.V.P and for more information about these and other events in Jerusalem, riedland 2017 please contact: [email protected]

12 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 12 Five Towns Jewish Times_4.875"x14".pdf 1 5/9/17 10:39 PM 13 NATIONAL NEWS Join Almost 300 Jewish Institutions across North America White House Holds First- as we Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Ever Yom Ha’atzmaut Jerusalem’s Reuni cation Together Celebration

A Yom Yerushalayim Torah Exploration Presented by The Orthodox Union

Why is Yerushalayim Important to us as Religious Jews? Choose as many as 5 exclusive 30-minute video presentations with accompanying sources from respected Torah teachers Vice President Mike Pence across the Jewish world that answer this question. (l-r) US Ambassador David Friedman and Mark Levenson Make Sure Your Organization is Registered at ou.org/yy Last week, the White House held its first-ever celebration and commemoration of Yom Ha’atzmaut. On the occasion of Is- See how all 5 teachers provide a unique perspective rael’s 69th birthday, Vice President Mike with their insights and viewpoints on the religious Pence gave a stirring speech; Orrin Hatch, importance of Judaism’s holiest city. the longest-serving Republican senator, took attendees on an emotional trip down memory lane; and Israel Ambassador to the US Ron Dermer and US Ambassador to Is- rael David Friedman offered an overview of the day. These remarks were followed by an unforgettable Yom Ha’atzmaut party C hosted by Dermer at the Mellon Auditori- M um attended by National Security Advisor Rabbi Rebbetzin Rabbi Y H. T. McMaster and a stirring rendition of Yitzchak Breitowitz Tziporah Heller Michael Rosensweig “Jerusalem of Gold” by Nannette. (l-r) Senator Orrin Hatch and Mark LevensonCM

MY ב״ה Join Us for an Evening of Community & Recognition CY Sunday June 4th, 2017 CMY 6:30 PM Reception | 8:00 PM Program The Riverdale Jewish Center K 3700 Independence Avenue Riverdale, New York Rabbi Rabbanit Dr. Jacob J. Schacter Shani Taragin

Lisa & Richie Heisler Tali & Rafi Green Guests of Honor Bella Khabinsky Young Leadership Recognition Miriam Schonfeld Memorial Award עץ חיים היא למחזיקים בה ותמכיה מאשר Couvert - Dinner Only: $500 (includes 2 reservations) Couvert with Half Page Ad: $750 (includes 2 reservations) Couvert with Full Page Ad: $1000 (includes 2 reservations) Young Couples: $250 (*Reduced rate made possible by generous sponsorships from anonymous donors) RSVP May 24th For Individual Reservations or to place an ad , contact the office at 718-548-1850 or visit www.rjconline.org/dinner2017

Dinner Chairs Brenda Ben-Zaken Marcella Marcus Malki Bernstein Adina Wizenfeld Russi Bohm, Executive Committee Liaison

Dinner Committee

Sharon & Jay Bar-David Faith & Harry Feder Tami & Jeremy Horowitz Sharon & Oskar Salamon Rena & Jonathan Boniuk Rena & Victor Fein Tobey & Nachi Karpel Shirley & Marty Schuster Shari & Todd Brody Joyce & Nachi Friedman Ilene & Sheldon Kupferman Sandra Molinas Devora & Michael Courtney Leah & Marc Fruchter Yocheved & Donald Liss & Samuel Sigal Ruthie & Chazzan Shoshana & Rabbi Rachel & Yonatan Toby & Stuart Smith Shim Craimer Yitzi Genack Mandelbaum Betty & Fred Sugarman Debbie & Moshe Drelich Mechal & Chaim Haas Mina & Howard Millendorf Dana & Saul Teplitsky Tamar & Abe Eisenstat Andrea & Asher Harris Melanie & Moshe Neiditch Susan & David Tessel Your organization will receive the flash drive or DVD Rena & Jonathan Eskowitz Sarah & Michael Heller Michelle & Eitan Nidam Lilly & David Weisz & sources for the Yom Yerushalayim presentation Honorary Dinner Committee: after they register for the program Giti & Jack Bendheim Blu & Rabbi Irving Greenberg Debbie & David Sable For questions, email [email protected] Lotte & Ludwig Bravmann Hadassah & Joseph Lieberman Ayelet & Jonathan Wiener *Valet Parking

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 13 13 14 COMMUNITY NEWS Riverdale Commemorates Yom Hazikaron With Guest Speaker Ambassador Dani Dayan On Sunday, April 30, over 400 Riverda- was transformed into a veritable memorial lians and representatives from 16 Riverd- with walls and panels draped in black and ale Jewish institutions all came together at lined with photographs and bios of the fall- the Riverdale Y to commemorate Yom Haz- en. A table was set with memorial candles, ikaron, the Memorial Day for Israel’s fallen which would be lit during the ceremony by soldiers and victims of terror. Enacted into representatives from each community in- law by the State of Israel in 1963, the day is stitution. marked by solemnity, prayer and memori- Ambassador Dani Dayan, Consul Gener- al services. al of Israel in New York, delivered a solemn The hundreds of attendees were greet- yet warm greeting on behalf of Israel, as he ed with a program proclaiming, “We exist described the lives and sacrifices of the fall- as long as someone remembers us,” and a en. He emphasized that these soldiers not lapel label with the word “Yizkor.” The area only gave their lives for Israel, but for Jews everywhere. Leaders from throughout the community led prayers and shared reflections. Kin- neret Day School students sang and danced with flags waiving in tribute to the fallen The Kinneret Day School fifth-grade choir soldiers. SAR Academy students presented biographical readings and sang to keyboard House (IHouse) program. Congressman El- gation Tehillah, Conservative Synagogue and string accompaniment, with visuals of liot Engel and Dr. Ruth Westheimer, both Adath Israel of Riverdale, Hebrew Institute fallen soldiers and their friends and families frequent visitors to and staunch supporters of Riverdale—The Bayit, The Kehilah, Kin- displayed on a large screen behind them. of the Riverdale Y and of Israel, were in the neret Day School, Minyan Shachar, River- The evening was supported by UJA Fed- audience. dale Jewish Center, The Riverdale Minyan, eration of New York and the 16 Riverdale The Riverdale Jewish Community Part- Riverdale Temple, The Riverdale YM-YWHA, Jewish community partners and coordinat- ners included Congregation Beth Aharon, SAR, Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, Yeshivat Ma- Ambassador Dani Dayan ed by Shanie Korabelnik of The Y’s Israel Congregation Shaarei Shalom, Congre- harat and Young Israel Ohab Zedek. The Last Mitzvah: An Introduction to the Westchester Chevra Kadisha By Tamar Weinberg A tahara is a significant event. Just as a On the seventh of Adar, the Chevra Kadi- newborn gets washed and dressed, the final sha hosts a dinner for all members. The sig- Within the Jewish sets of laws and act before a Jewish person is buried also in- nificance of the day is the birth and death traditions, every life event has its own volves washing and dressing the body. The of Moshe. When his life ended, Hashem set of guidelines. This is true in death as deceased person is dressed in white linen prepared him for burial; the Chevras of to- well. When a person passes away, a group and lowered into a casket wrapped in a lin- day emulate the same care and dignity to of Jewish people—keepers of sorts—re- en sheet before the casket is closed. commemorate the deceased’s passing. mains behind to watch the body the en- Directed by Nancy Klein, the Westches- Klein was recently honored by YIOZ, tire time before the funeral and partic- ter Chevra Kadisha was founded by Con- the Young Israel Ohab Zedek of North ipates in a process known as a tahara, a gregation Rosh Pinah in 1985 to serve the Riverdale/Yonkers. A Yonkers resident for Nancy Klein (CREDIT: YIOZ VIDEO) spiritual event that involves protecting needs of Westchester County; prior to its her entire life, she has become very active the dignity of the deceased and prepar- creation, no Chevra Kadisha was located in serving the needs of the community. «I do for a person and they can’t thank you— ing them for a proper burial within Jew- in the county. was born with the idea that you support there’s no discussion about it—but we pre- ish law. Today, the Chevra Kadisha comprises and give back to the community,» she said pare each person with love and dignity.» Tahara, or purification, is conducted approximately 60 men and women from in a YIOZ video. «It was the natural thing The Westchester Chevra Kadisha is part by a Jewish burial society, of which there Riverdale and Westchester who range in to do.» She has been involved in the Ortho- of the National Association of Chevra Kadi- are many around the world, known as the age from 19 to 86, working in seven funer- dox Union, YIOZ and the Jewish Commu- sha, which provides education for its mem- Chevra Kadisha. The Chevra Kadisha of al homes in the county. There is an average nity Center and devoted her time to a lo- bers and the Jewish community at large. Westchester is a volunteer effort where of 250 taharas a year, which represents ap- cal hospital. Of taharas, she says, «It’s not an To learn more about how you can be in- members of the community of great char- proximately 25 percent of Jewish funerals easy thing to do but it is very, very satisfy- volved in the process, email Nancy at nan- acter are trained to perform the tahara. in the county. ing because it’s the very last thing you can [email protected].

Rabbi Dov Emerson Joins MTA the faculty make him an ide- Week’s 36 Under 36 List for his al candidate.” work on educational technology. Nationally renowned educator Rab- Jewish Education and Administration, Rab- Rabbi Emerson joins the “MTA has a rich and storied tra- bi Dov Emerson will be joining the Lead- bi Emerson will explore ways to continue MTA administration with dition of providing an outstanding ership Team at the Marsha Stern Talmud- to utilize our partnerships to enhance edu- a wealth of prior leader- Torah and general studies educa- ical Academy/Yeshiva University High cational opportunities for the yeshiva com- ship experience. Rabbi Em- tion to generations of Jewish lead- School for Boys (MTA) beginning on July munity. erson has served as head of ers. It is truly an exciting time for 1. Rabbi Emerson will focus on faculty de- “Rabbi Emerson’s role in our yeshiva school at YULA High School the yeshiva, and I am eager to start velopment and support, as well as nurtur- represents a focus on the continued devel- in Los Angeles and, prior to getting to know all of the stake- ing our continued academic growth, in his opment of our educational vision at the his move to the West Coast, holders and begin working togeth- role as director of teaching and learning. He Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy. The po- served as the assistant prin- er to build on the already outstand- will work with Head of School Rabbi Josh- sition of director of teaching and learning cipal at HALB’s DRS Yeshiva ing program here,” noted Rabbi ua Kahn, Principal for General Studies Dr. is a role that will provide us with an oppor- High School for Boys. Rabbi Dov Emerson Emerson, who is looking forward Seth Taylor, Associate Principal Rabbi Shi- tunity to ensure that we are offering sup- Rabbi Emerson holds to joining the MTA community. mon Schenker, Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Mi- port and guidance to our teachers so they master’s degrees in both education and Rabbi Emerson hails from Memphis, chael Taubes and the faculty to continue can continue to grow as professional edu- social work, and is a doctoral student at Tennessee, where the importance of lead- to develop innovative educational pedago- cators, as well as making sure that we are at YU’s Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Ed- ership in the Jewish community was im- gy, including educational technology, pro- the cutting edge of educational pedagogy,” ucation and Administration. He has been pressed upon him from a young age. He ject-based learning, experiential education explained Rabbi Joshua Kahn. “Rabbi Em- honored for his work in Jewish educa- and his wife, Rina, have five children: Ezra and personalized learning in our building. erson’s strengths as a thoughtful educator tion, receiving the 2011 Grinspoon-Stein- and Yitz, both of whom will be attending With the vast resources of Yeshiva Universi- who stays up to date with advances in edu- hardt Award for excellence in Jewish edu- MTA next year, as well as Yehuda, Yaakov, ty, RIETS and the Azrieli Graduate School of cation and knows how to collaborate with cation as well as being named to the Jewish and Atara. 14 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 14 15 COMMUNITY NEWS Aviva Zornberg Speaks Bonfire Sparks Brighten at YINR the Sky for Lag B’Omer Dr. Avivah Gottlieb Zornberg will pres- Celebration ent “Learning to Speak: A Midrashic and Chasidic Portrait of the Biblical Moses” on By Robert Kalfus Monday, May 22 at 8:15 p.m. at Young Israel of New Rochelle. The lecture, which is free The glow of flames and sparks rising and open to women and men, is part of a into the night sky on Sunday night will continuing series sponsored by the Wom- mean that the members and friends of en’s Initiative for Jewish Studies. Lincoln Park Jewish Center are celebrat- Drawing from her new book, “Moses: ing Lag B’Omer. A Human Life,” Dr. Zornberg will explore Starting from the second night of Pass- how Moses’s initial sense of himself as “not over, Jews count each day, representing a man of words” comes to a poignant con- the days that began with their departure summation in the long speeches he makes from slavery, until the 50th day since Pass- to the people before he dies. An examina- over, which is the holiday of Shavuot, the tion of Midrashic and Chasidic sources rais- Aviva Zornberg celebration of the Jews receiving the Torah es questions about the movement of de- at Mount Sinai. Throughout Israel, holiday sire—about transitions, transmissions and years. She holds a Visiting Lectureship at bonfires are lit, with celebrations of song, transferences. the London School of Jewish Studies. learning and food. The Lincoln Park Jew- Lincoln Park Jewish Center members enjoy Dr. Zornberg earned B.A. and Ph.D de- Please visit www.yinr.org/wijs to view ish Center will celebrate (weather permit- a Lag B’Omer bonfire. grees in English Literature from Cambridge the complete WIJS schedule or email wijs@ ting) with a bonfire at 311 Central Park Av- (CREDIT: © 2014 ROBERT KALFUS) University and has taught Torah at leading yinr.org for more information or to be add- enue in back of the Jewish Center at 7:00 institutions in Jerusalem for the past 30 ed to our mailing list. p.m., immediately after the conclusion of mincha, the afternoon prayer service. A BBQ and refreshments will be enjoyed. The Lag B’Omer holiday marks a respite Limmud FSU New from the traditional period of semi-mourning from the second day of Passover until York Will Pay Tribute Shavuot. During this seven-week period, some of the customs of mourning are observed: men do not shave, no marriages are to Leonard Cohen performed and live musical performances are prohibited, in commemoration of the Westchester—Some 1,000 plague that afflicted the Jewish students people are expected to gather in Israel thousands of years ago due to the weekend of May 12 for Lim- baseless hatred between the two differing mud FSU New York, the biggest schools of religious thought of Rabbi Hillel Hot dogs roast in the Lag B’Omer bonfire at event geared towards the Rus- and Rabbi Shammai. the Lincoln Park Jewish Center. sian-speaking community in This Lag B’Omer holiday celebration at the area, which will include a LPJC is dedicated to supporting members $10 per person in advance, $15 at the door, ceremony opening an exhibi- Leah and Motti Katz, who were injured in and checks, credit cards and cash will be tion on Leonard Cohen’s life a car crash. Admission to the event will be accepted. Visit www.LPJC.org, and please and Jewish roots. Dayan; stand-up comedians Dmitry Ro- call 914-965-7119 or email LPJCoffice@op- Currently, there are an estimated manov and Igor Meerson; UJA-Federation tonline.net to reserve your place. 200,000 Russian Jews in the tri-state area of New York Director of Learning and De- and 700,000 nationally. Limmud FSU New velopment and Jewish Parent Co-Founder Robert Kalfus has photographed professionally for York will take place at the Hilton Westches- Yelena Kutikova; American rabbi and best- more than four decades. He worked as a Long Is- ter and will feature an array of world-class selling author Joseph Telushkin; Muslim land Press staff photographer, then worked for al- programs and speakers from around the interfaith activist Nadiya Al-Noor; Founder most two decades at the New York Post, where he world, including Israel’s minister of tour- and Director of the “Eralash” TV show Bo- received more professional awards from his peers ism, Yariv Levin; Rep. Nita Lowey, D-New ris Grachevskii; Abby Stein, the first openly in the NY Press Photographers Association than all York, will be speaking at the opening cere- transgender woman raised in the Chasidic other Post photographers. Kalfus worked for the NY mony on Friday. community; and many others. Daily News, NY Times, Associated Press and Jewish Limmud FSU New York is a dynamic “The New York Russian-speaking Jew- Week, and still works, contributing regularly. Kalfus and pluralistic Jewish festival of culture, ish community is thriving and going from enjoys challenging assignments, and is available for creativity and learning featuring more strength to strength and Limmud FSU Lag B’Omer bonfire at the Lincoln Park weddings and event photography, surveillance and than 80 inspiring speakers and 120 pan- New York has become an integral part of Jewish Center legal and medical photography. Please contact him els, workshops and discussions on subjects this exciting growth,” said Limmud FSU (CREDIT: © 2014 ROBERT KALFUS) at [email protected]. ranging from art to Jewish culture and tra- founder Chaim Chesler. “We look forward dition, history, politics, academics, busi- to an inspiring gathering that will con- ness and lifestyles. tribute to the incredible vitality of Rus- Sponsored by the Koret Foundation sian-Jewish life in New York,” said Limmud Rebecca Singer and Blavatnik Family Foundation, Lim- FSU co-founder Sandy Cahn. mud FSU New York will explore a diverse Limmud FSU New York was made pos- Art & Recreation Therapy array of topics including Israel in the era sible by the generous support of UJA-Jew- of Trump, Jewish views of astrology and ish Federation of New York and the Gene- superstition, raising children in a diverse sis Philanthropy Group (GPG), and the help For Stay At Home Seniors world, demystifying Shabbat and religious of local volunteers, including Ilya Bratman, Zionism. Top Israeli singer Ninet Tayeb Valerie Khmelnitsky and Roman Sidler. will give a special performance during the “Limmud FSU New York grows by leaps ART • MUSIC • GAMES tribute to Leonard Cohen. and bounds each year. We are already sold Among the featured presenters will be out for the weekend and have a waiting BRAIN STIMULATION acclaimed Russian animator Oleg Kuvaev; list,” said Limmud FSU US Project Manager COOKING • GARDENINGG Consul General of Israel in New York Dani Noam Shumakh-Khaimov. No charge for first appointment The Jewish Link wishes mazal tov to Andrew Cohn and Tamar Druck on the birth of their baby boy! Call 914-563-69399 Check out our Web site at rebeccasinger.com excellentxcellent references refe

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 15 15 16 COMMUNITY NEWS Rep. Engel Blasts State Dept. for ‘Editing Out’ Israel State Dept. announces Trump visit to Saudi Arabia, removing mention of Israel.

Washington—Representative Eliot L. United States recognized the State of Isra- I write with strong concern about a vid- malization and peace in the region. The Engel, ranking member of the House Com- el, and throughout Israel’s history, the Unit- eo that the US Embassy in Saudi Arabia re- United States has actively fought the Arab mittee on Foreign Affairs, today assailed ed States has supported efforts toward nor- cently posted. The homepage of the embas- boycott and efforts by countries in the re- the State Department decision to remove malization and peace in the region. The sy and the Arabic-language handle affiliated gion to delegitimize the State of Israel. This mentions of Israel from the video posted United States has actively fought the Arab with the US embassy in Riyadh, @USAinK- video plays into a rejectionist narrative and by the American embassy in Saudi Arabia boycott and efforts by countries in the re- SA, included a video of President Trump’s thus has no place in any social media—or announcing President Trump’s visit to the gion to delegitimize the State of Israel. This announcement of his upcoming travel to any other form of communication—asso- region. A State Department video included video plays into a rejectionist narrative and the Kingdom, but edited out the portion ciated with the United States government. details about the president’s trip, including thus has no place in any social media—or about his travel to Israel. I urge you to immediately instruct the all the stops: the Vatican, Saudi Arabia and any other form of communication—associ- I am appalled that the US Embassy in embassy to replace the video with the un- Israel. The version posted on the Embas- ated with the United States government.” Saudi Arabia disingenuously posted this in- edited version that includes the announce- sy Riyadh website and the embassy’s Ara- The full text of the letter follows: complete and misleading video. At a time ment of the President’s planned visit to bic-language Twitter account, @USAinKSA, when the United States should be encour- Israel. This will help restore the U.S. com- was edited to remove references to Israel. May 8, 2017 aging the governments of the region— mitment toward peace and the acceptance Ranking Member Engel wrote, “At a and their people—to promote tolerance, of the Jewish State throughout the region time when the United States should be en- The Honorable Rex Tillerson respect, and mutual recognition this vid- and the world. We must continue to be couraging the governments of the region— Secretary of State eo implies that the US accepts Saudi Ara- true to our values and interests. and their people—to promote tolerance, U.S. Department of State bia’s public rejectionist position toward respect, and mutual recognition this vid- 2201 C Street NW Israel. Fifty-nine years ago this week, the Sincerely, eo implies that the US accepts Saudi Ara- Washington, DC 20520 United States recognized the State of Isra- Eliot L. Engel bia’s public rejectionist position toward el, and throughout Israel’s history, the Unit- Ranking Member Israel. Fifty-nine years ago this week, the Dear Mr. Secretary: ed States has supported efforts toward nor- House Foreign Affairs Committee Photographic Exhibit on Jewish Femininity Coming to The Bayit The Hebrew Institute of Riverdale— JOFA Conference in New York City in Jan- ritual, life cycle and body in an engaging, For more information contact Rabba The Bayit will host the exhibition “The em- uary 2017. inclusive and spiritual way.” Ramie Smith, program director, at 718-796- Bodyment of Jewish Femininity” on Sun- Rabbi Steven Exler, senior rabbi of the There will be opening remarks by pho- 4730 x119 or [email protected], day, May 21, from 7-9 p.m. Hebrew Institute of Riverdale said, “The tographer Aviva Braun Finkler and by Yali or Aviva Braun Finkler, photographer, at This photographic exhibition, created Bayit is honored to feature the thought- Szulanski 917-699-6831 or vvbeephotography@gmail. by psychotherapist and photographer Avi- ful and thought-provoking documentary Weiss, one of the women featured in com. va Braun Finkler, explores the complex re- photographic work of our member, Aviva this exhibit. The Hebrew Institute of Riverdale is lo- lationship Jewish women have with their Braun Finkler. This exhibition draws atten- Admission is free. Light refreshments cated at 3700 Henry Hudson Pkwy East, bodies. The exhibition debuted at the tion to women’s relationships to Judaism, will be served. Bronx, New York.

HOW CAN WE HELP GROW YOUR BUSINESS? 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE REUNIFICATION OF JERUSALEM The simple answer is that we can provide you with access to over 20,000 readers in the H.I.R. COMMUNITY CHOIR CONCERT communities of Riverdale, Yonkers, Scarsdale, White Plains, New Rochelle, Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at 6:30 PM Stamford, Fleetwood, the Einstein The Bayit invites you to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Six Day War community and the surrounding areas. and the reuni cation of Jerusalem with a special concert by the HIR Community Choir and SAR Academy Choir. Please join us for longtime choir leader Jonathan Dzik’s nal performance at the Bayit. We have ad plans and packages for all budgets!! Doors Open | 6:15 PM Concert Begins | 6:30 PM Contact us TODAY to get started at Register online to save time at the door: www.thebayit.org/jerusalem 201-366-9111 or email [email protected] Hebrew Institute of Riverdale - The Bayit | 3700 Henry Hudson Pkwy, Bronx, NY 10463

16 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 16 17

Lose 5-10% Of Your Weight In Just 10 Days!

Steven Y. Szklarz CSP Before Results ARE Typical & GUARANTEED! If You Weigh: You Will Lose: (21 Years Old) 120 lbs. 6 - 12 lbs. 150 lbs. 7.5 - 15 lbs. 170 lbs. 8.5 - 17 lbs. 190 lbs. 9.5 - 19 lbs. 210 lbs. 10.5 - 21 lbs. 230 lbs. 11.5 - 23 lbs. 250 lbs. 12.5 - 25 lbs. 300 lbs. 15 - 30 lbs. IN THE FIRST 10 DAYS!

Steven Y. Szklarz CSP Steven Y. Szklarz CSP After After (35 Years Old) (41 Years Old) LOSE WEIGHT “I’m not only a practitioner, I’m also a successful client! I lost & KEEP IT OFF! 110 lbs. in 6 months & have kept it off for PROGRAM: over 15 years!” Phase 1: DETOX/CLEANSE/HUNGER MANAGEMENT - Detoxify your R.H: “I got myself back.” body and control hunger using acupressure. LOSE WEIGHT FAST! - Female, lost 27 lbs/30% body weight in 2.5 months! (151 lb Phase 2: MAINTENANCE - TRANSITION FROM CLEANSE TO DIET - 2 starting weight, now 124) week period that conditions your body to maintain your weight loss C.B: “Fantastic! It works.” - Male, lost 30 and is the beginning of a diet. lbs in 55 days. D.B: “Stick to the program - it really Phase 3: DIET = WAY OF LIFE - We will coach you nutritionally and works.” - Female, lost 10 help you keep off the weight you lost on the program. lbs in first 10 day cycle. This is a free service upon completion of program. P.W: “I walked into a Bar Mitzvah and •Drug Free everyone’s heads turned - they couldn’t get over FREE Nutritional Counseling •All Natural me. I felt like a million dollars.” - Female, lost •Non-Invasive 30 lbs in 50 days/down Upon Completion of Program! 3 dress sizes. •Fast & Effective •No Hard Exercise THOUSANDS OF SUCCESSFUL CLIENTS! •TOTAL HUNGER CONTROL! White Plains Office New Rochelle Office 277 Martine Ave, Suite 210 1279 North Ave, (Across from Starbucks) White Plains, NY 10601 New Rochelle, NY 10804 914.328.7777 914.365.7770 $50 OFF [email protected] [email protected] Initial Office Visit Valid in: Toronto, Englewood, Lakewood, East Brunswick, White Plains, New Rochelle & Monsey Call us now for a FREE consultation! Expires 5.31.17 Englewood, NJ Lakewood, NJ East Brunswick, NJ White Plains, NY New Rochelle, NY Monsey, NY Toronto, ON

100 South Van Brunt Street 6520 US Highway 9 579 Cranbury Road, Suite E 277 Martine Avenue, Suite 210 1279 North Avenue 419 Route 59, Suite 10 491 Lawrence Ave W, Ste 204 Englewood, NJ 07631 Howell, NJ 07731 East Brunswick, NJ 08816 White Plains, NY 10601 New Rochelle, NY 10804 Monsey, NY 10952 Toronto, ON M5M 1C7 201.871.0777 732.523.1770 732.254.3777 914.328.7777 914.365.7770 845.213.1036 855.716.8743 njofﬁ[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 17 17 18

Tuesday, June 6, 2017, 7:30 p.m. Private home in Englewood, NJ

Fe n Gu Spe kr Moshe Uziel

AMIT Alumnus and Director of the Center for Technology and Values at AMIT Kfar Blatt Youth Village

Hnn Elaine Jacobs, Shira Jacobs & Michal Jacobs Ev Ch rs Gabby Bareket Aimee Ciment Shani Kramer Atara Okrent Sh Ch Ch ptr Pr id Daniela Gontownik

To register for this event, please contact Aliza Schulman at [email protected] or 212-477-4730.

AMIT Children 817 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 | 212.477.4720 | www.amitchildren.org AMIT enables Israel’s youth to realize their potential and strengthens Israeli society by educating and nurturing children from diverse backgrounds within a framework of academic excellence, Jewish values and Zionist ideals. Founded in 1925, AMIT operates 110 schools, youth villages, surrogate family residences and AMITBuilding Israel. One Child at a Time other programs, constituting Israel’s only government-recognized network of religious Jewish education incorporating academic and technological studies.

18 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 18 19 COMMUNITY EVENTS

SDC/Bais Sholom Continues JASA Yom Yerushalayim Required, Permitted, Forbidden: The Bake-Sale to Benefit Mysterious Judges Lecture Series Concert, May 21 Halachot of the Bedroom” Family in Israel The Spuyten Duyvil Congregation’s Mys- Celebrate 50 years of the reunification • At 10:15 a.m., hear from Professor Ne- A bake sale will be held on May 25, terious Judges series continues with a shi- of Jerusalem on Sunday, May 21 with a spe- chama Price: “10 Mistakes that Keep from 6:30 to 10:00 p.m. in Riverdale. Please ur titled “Yiftach— When the Leader Is the cial concert by the Hebrew Institute Com- You Away from the Mikvah”; Sharon join us for a multi-communal bake sale. Punishment.” It will be held in the White- munity Choir at 2 p.m. at the JASA Van Movsas, RD CDE Nutritional Specialist: Proceeds to help support a family in Isra- hall building, 3333 Henry Hudson Parkway, Cortlandt Senior Center, 3880 Sedgwick “Weight Management, Fact or Fiction— el with over 10 children who recently lost Riverdale on Sunday, May 14, at 10 a.m. Ave, Bronx. Begun in 2002, the HIR Com- Untangling the Myths Around Diet and their mother from cancer. Volunteers are Stay tuned for Shavuot programming, munity Choir has 50 members who sing Weight Loss”; or Estie Rose, certified ge- needed to bake! To partake in this mitzvah, with shiurim given by Rabbi Jonathan soprano, alto, tenor and bass. The choir netic counselor: “Getting to Know Your please click here to sign up. The bake sale Rosenblatt. For more information, please performs both secular and liturgical cho- Genes.” will be hosted in Riverdale at the Marcus email [email protected]. ral music. Their extensive repertoire in- • At 11:15 a.m., hear from Debbie Drelich, Home, 3530 Henry Hudson Parkway, Apt cludes works in English, Hebrew, Yiddish, LMSW: “Surviving the Challenges of 12E. Tizku L’Mitzvot! Please contact Abby Chabad of Riverdale Plans Ladino and Italian. A delectable lunch will Caregiving for Aging Relatives”; Rabbi Marcus at 718-530-3322 with any questions. Community-Wide Mother’s be served at 1:00 p.m. Yitzi Genack, rabbi of RJC: “Halachot of Day Lag B’Omer Picnic Menu: Shake & Bake Chicken or sole Organ Donation”; or Rivka Harczstark, Young Israel of Scarsdale Chabad Lubavitch of Riverdale is spon- fillet, barley w/mushrooms, Italian blend PsyD, clinical psychologist: “Finding Lecture Series soring a community-wide celebration this vegetables, bread, fruit, juice and refresh- Balance in an Age of Extremes: Health Young Israel of Scarsdale presents Sunday, May 14, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at ments. or Obsession and How to Tell the Dif- a three-part lecture series, “The Zionist Seton Park, with a special emphasis on our Recommended senior contribution: ference.” Dream and the Jewish Future: Reflections mothers, featuring John’s Botany Bay Flo- $3.00 for meal and $2.00 for the event. • At 12:15 p.m., Zumba will commence on 50 Years Since 1967 and the Re-Unifica- rist, a mother’s day raffle (dinner for two Kindly make your meal reservation by with Sheera Landsman (sneakers re- tion of Jerusalem.” The lecture series has at Riverdale K Grill House), mother’s day- Wed. May 17. Call the center office: 718- quired; women only). already begun, but on Monday, May 15 at themed crafts and free fruit cup for every 549-4700. The cost is $25 per family in advance, 8:00 p.m., Dr. Daniel Gordis will speak on mom with lunch ordered! $36 at the door. Babysitting is available “A Dream Reawakened: How the Early Zi- The event, open to the public, will mark RJC’s Women’s Health and with advance registration ($10 per child). onists Spoke to the Depths of the Jewish the observance of the Jewish holiday of Lag Halacha Day, May 21 RJC is at 3700 Independence Avenue, Soul.” The final lecture will be on Monday, B’Omer, which is traditionally commemo- The Riverdale Jewish Center welcomes Bronx, NY. May 22 at 8:00 p.m. with Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. rated by large outdoor celebrations, which the entire community to Women’s Health Schacter, who will speak on “The Reunifi- harbors spiritual significance. and Halacha Day. Registration and break- Women’s Philanthropy cation of Jerusalem 50 Years Later: History, The Lag B’Omer festivities at Seton Park fast begin at 8:15 a.m., followed by the fol- Spring Dinner, May 25 Theology and Liturgy.” will also feature fresh popcorn, cotton can- lowing events: The UJF of Greater Stamford, New Ca- dy, moon bounce, body bumpers, Snapchat • Keynote at 9 a.m. by Professor Necha- naan and Darien invites the community Fleetwood Shul Open Geofilter and pony rides. ma Price, Yoetzet Halacha: “Praised, to a dinner with special guest Lisa Fried- House, May 28 man Clark, on Thursday, May 25, at 6:30 The Fleetwood Shul will be host- p.m., hosted at Temple Sinai, 458 Lakeside ing an Open House Brunch at the shul Drive, Stamford. Jewish dietary laws will be at 11 Broad Street East in Mount Vernon 2017 J-Biz Expo and observed and a silent auction will be held. on Sunday, May 28 at 11:30 a.m. for pro- Cost is $136 or $50 for girls 13-18 years old. spective families interested in moving to Business Conference: No minimum gift required. Fleetwood. Where the Business World Comes Together Black Box Studios and The Black Box Performing Arts Center It’s a whole new world out there, and Business, communal and even diplo- J-Biz Expo and Business Conference is matic leaders in the U.S., Israel and be- request the honor of your presence at a very special Spring the place to be. It is the place where you yond are actively involved in the plan- fundraising production will get to personally meet the movers ning and outreach for this year’s expo, and shakers of the business world—un- ensuring broader and more promising der the same roof as grassroots business participation than ever before. Talks are owners and entrepreneurs, and hun- under way with some of the most suc- skip & rivka's dreds of dynamic, innovative exhibitors cessful and captivating personalities in you would love to consider doing busi- the world to present at the J-Biz Busi- not-so-kosher interactive ness with. ness Conference, which takes place in This year, this event—the world’s larg- the morning, before the main B2B floor est Jewish community B2B event—is just opens. jewish wedding a few weeks away, on Wednesday, June Additional details about presenters, 15, at the New Jersey Convention and Ex- schedule and more will be released in the experience position Center in Edison, New Jersey. weeks ahead. Stay tuned! If you have business or professional Reserving floor space is easier than Featuring Shari Cohen, Jason Felix, Brianna Fernandez, Sara Giacomini, services that can benefit other business- ever before. The J-Biz website gives you June Mandeville, Vikki Martin, Danielle MacMath, Nate Murphy, es—in any industry, of any size—J-Biz of- all the tools to do it online, down to se- Lisa Tiger, Laurence Wallace, and special guests fers you opportunity like no other. Re- lecting your preferred location. Of course, serve prime exhibition space on the floor the J-Biz team would be glad to person- Created by Michael Gurin & Matt Okin / Directed by Matt Okin and build relationships with attendees ally guide you through the reservations face to face. Within a span of just a few process as well. Sundays hours, you can expand your client list a Another special service, new for this may 14, may 21, june 4 and june 11 lot more effectively than cold calls and year, empowers businesses who desire to advertising will do for you. exhibit at the expo but whose staff can- With every day that passes, the reach not personally be at the booth. J-Biz has Doors Open at 6:30PM of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Com- contracted with a highly regarded compa- Hors d'oeuvres, 'Chupah', buffet dinner and dancing, and dessert merce, which hosts J-Biz, is broader and ny that can prepare and staff your booth Couvert: $60/pp or $100/couple (wine/beer is offered a la carte) more prestigious. Within the past year with the professionalism and dedication alone, the chamber was honored in the you would expect from your own team. RSVP's are a must: www.blackboxpac.com/wedding U.S. Senate, hosted a major symposium The windows of opportunity are open at the Israeli Knesset and opened its New for you. Go ahead: Participate, think big Music: DJ Muktzah York office in the heart of Wall Street. Var- and, with Hashem’s help, you will emerge Further information: (201) 357-2221 ious high-level corporations and individ- the winner. uals have already confirmed their partici- For more information about J-Biz, pation at this year’s event—which will be booth reservations and sponsorship oppor- 200 Walraven Dr., Teaneck, NJ 07666 broadcast live on Breitbart News and oth- tunities, please visit https://www.jbizexpo. blackboxnynj.com / blackboxpac.com er major media outlets. com/. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 19 19 20 DIVREI TORAH

man, by flesh and blood. Through the pow- possible interpretation for the word tzi- Holy Mackerel! er of our mouths, through verbal sanctifica- yon is that it means clearly marked or out- tion alone, we can create holy offerings of standing. Often, grave markers are called tzi- By Rabbi David Walk attempt to mimic the acts and behavior the Temple treasury and holy offerings for yunim, for they identify the space above the patterns of God, we achieve a certain holi- the Altar. The Land of Israel became holy body. So, mitzvot are tziyunim of a deeper Emor 5777 ness. For that reason, all of the quoted vers- through conquest, Jerusalem and the Tem- reality hidden behind them. We bring sanc- How come we of- es demand that we be holy because God is ple courts—through bringing offerings” tity into this world from the heavenly realm ten use the word “holy” holy. That’s cool, but not totally satisfying (“Halachic Man,” p. 47). This holiness starts by these entry ports marked “mitzvot.” in such unholy ways? because we associate being “holy” with be- as a deep mystery, but as we create it, we be- So, too, the word Zion implies that Je- Why should this term havior that is distinctly un-godly, like sex- gin to feel a closeness to God. We are imitat- rusalem and the Temple were markers of denoting sanctity or ual mores or eating habits. So, Rashi last ing the Divine ways and soon we no longer where the Divine power entered our realm. piety or godly come to be part of excla- week commented: For wherever one finds want to flee God’s presence; we become The holiness in our world enters through mations and even, pardon me, expletives? a barrier against sexual immorality, one God’s intimates. Eventually, mankind “tries assigned portals. The Gerer Rebbe stresses I saw one explanation that pairing “holy” finds holiness (quoting Vayikra Raba 24:4). to imitate God, walk in His way and partici- that mitzvot also achieve this purpose. Ac- with profane ideas somehow intensifies Rashi pushes an agenda that holiness is pate in His caritas (kindness and love).” cording to the Rebbe, humans don’t create its impact. To stress our point we break ta- connected to controlling certain strong hu- That’s cool; holiness is connected to our the Holiness, instead we usher it into this boos. I find this idea somehow both satis- man urges. And this week, holiness is asso- tzelem Elokim (Divine image) which, as giv- physical universe. fying and disturbing. It’s clear that the term ciated with, first, the kohanim, then plac- en by God, defines our humanity and our Whether we accept the Rav, who said “holy” carries a lot of power. It both inspires es like the Sanctuary, and then in Chapter relationship with God, but the concept that humanity creates kedusha, or the Reb- and troubles the listener. OK, so we can see 23, also called parshat hamoadim (section I find the most fascinating is a novel idea be, who said that we control the flow of how the word can be used in provocative of holidays), with times. How do times and from the Gerer Rebbe in his commentary, kedusha, the importance of Jerusalem is ways to jar the audience, but what does the places behave like God? Sfat Emet. When discussing kedoshim tihi- huge. It makes no difference whether the word mean in its purest sense? Lo and be- Rabbi Joseph Dov Soloveitchik weighed yu (“Be holy”), the Midrash quotes a well kedusha is manufactured or uncovered, hold, this is the perfect time of year to ex- in on this topic a number of times in his known verse from Psalms: “May He send its address is still Jerusalem. During these plore that question, because together with many writings, and presented an inspiring your aid from His sanctuary, and may He days between Yom Ha’atzmaut and Yom Ye- last week’s Torah reading, which featured yet provocative approach. He defined sanc- support you from Zion” (Psalms 20:3). So rushalayim, it’s important to contemplate the words “Be holy, because, I, the Lord, tity as “the mere attributes of kadosh, ka- the verse seems to state that sanctity comes and communicate the role of Jerusalem in your God, am holy (Leviticus 19:2),” and con- dosh, kadosh denote distance, separation from the Temple in Zion. Originally, the our world. Let’s not be like those who den- tained the following injunction: “You shall and distinction” (“Out of the Whirlwind,” term Zion meant a specific place or build- igrate or defile the importance of sanctity sanctify yourselves and be holy, for I am the p. 143) and as “the mysterium magnum, in- ing in Jerusalem, then came to mean all of in our world through profane expressions. Lord, your God...I am the Lord, Who sanc- effable and unattainable, awesome and Jerusalem and, eventually in the fifth centu- Let’s, instead, pray for the wellbeing of Jeru- tifies you. (20:7-8),” our section of Leviticus holy” (“Worship of the Heart,” p. 67). In oth- ry BCE, referred to all of Israel. But I digress. salem and us all. The two are intertwined. is so very much about “holiness.” This top- er words, holiness is connection to some- The Midrash explains this to mean the sanc- ic continues this week with the famous dic- thing so beyond us that it is a mystery be- tification of our deeds and the zionification Rabbi David Walk is a teacher at the Bi-Cultural Day tum: “And they shall not desecrate the holy yond our feeble powers of intellect to of our actions. What’s that last idea? How school as well as Congregation Agudath Sholom’s Ed- things of the Children of Israel, those that comprehend. So, where does this baffling do we zionify deeds? The Rebbe explains ucation Director. He is a tireless teacher and educator. they have set aside for the Lord (22:15).” stuff come from? How does it enter our that this word “mitzion” in the Psalm refers For over 30 years he has taught students from third The simplest reading of these texts is mundane realm? Here comes the most dif- to this verse in Jeremiah: “Set up road mark- grade and up and conducted many classes for teens that we should be “holy” as an act of em- ficult, yet elegant, part of the Rav’s position. ers for yourself; establish signposts!” (31:20). and adults. Prior to joining CAS, he served as director ulating our Creator, imitatio Dei. When we It comes from us. “Holiness is created by The word for road signs is tziyunim. One and teacher at Yeshivot Hamivtar in Efrat, Israel. Ramban to Va’etchanan, Week 1: Techniques and Challenges of Sticking to the Path By Rabbi Gidon Rothstein Sefer HaMitzvot—against forgetting what he gives, or the miracles s/he performs, can as an educator who failed to convince chil- happened at Sinai, and an adjuration to in- controvert what we received from Hashem dren, parents and other educators of how As Moshe stands form our children and grandchildren of the through Moshe. poorly we are doing at ensuring that the at the end of his life, experience. I find this a particularly interesting next generation knows even the most basic Ramban reads many Another warning that is focused more Ramban since we saw last time that Ram- set of mitzvot, let alone acquires desirable of his statements in on the positive than we might realize comes ban thought Moshe’s remonstrations levels of knowledge and involvement). Va’etchanan as striving at 6:2, where Moshe says that he is teaching played an important role in confirming the to help the new gener- them the Torah and mitzvot in order that new generation’s faith, since he was the A Predicted Failure ation enter the land with the best chanc- they fear Hashem (or, have awe of Hashem). last surviving eyewitness and participant in His reading of 4:25 seems to be aware es for success. The first examples are what Ramban reads that as his attempt to tell the events he was describing. That would that there will come a time when par- are often today confused with or rejected them that fear or awe is a goal of its own, seem to mean that hearing the story from ents’ traditions won’t be enough. While as “negative” reinforcement, the warning or since that will help them and their children a non-eyewitness makes it slightly less im- the next verse’s use of the word ha’idoti, I reminder that going wrong can lead to con- merit staying in the Land of Israel, will make mediately believable or acceptable. testify against you, sounds like a warning, sequences. them known for their righteousness and suc- Here, though, Ramban says that our Ramban reads it as a prediction that this cess. As he says on 6:3, the commandment to children will believe our representations is what’s going to happen. Of course, that’s Some Warnings observe the Torah (and to develop actual fear of tradition (even if we haven’t seen it our- not a guarantee (that would create prob- In 3:24, Ramban reads Moshe’s remind- or awe of Hashem) is for our own good. selves) without any doubt, since people lems of free will), but it’s enough of a cer- ing the people that he himself will not be would never lie like that to their children. It tainty that Gittin 88a took ve-noshantem’s entering the land as closing his list of ways Trusting a Chain of Transmission is a poignant statement to read in our time, numerological value as a reference to how in which the previous generation had dam- Part of what Moshe stresses as a prelude since that which Ramban takes for grant- long the First Temple stood. aged themselves and him; through their in- is how the Jews all saw the Giving of the ed, future generations’ acceptance of the That’s a post-facto reading, Ramban iquities and challenges, he too ended up be- Torah at Sinai. This had to precede any ac- truth of the traditions their forebears share says; Chazal knew these verses hinted at ing left back. They, the next generation, are tual content of mitzvot, Ramban says, be- with them is today very much in doubt, to an impending exile (should they act as ex- able to do better, but only if they avoid their cause were the mitzvot “just” the words of our distress, and in a way that makes exact- pected and become too comfortable in the ancestors’ mistakes, giving up rebellious- Moshe as a prophet, a later prophet might ly this goal of sustaining our faith in the land, letting themselves forget Hashem, Si- ness and disobedience. Which is why he claim that he had heard a contradictory or events at Sinai so difficult in many families nai and all that goes with that), but it was then starts with mitzvot, seen in this con- overriding message from Hashem (as hap- and with many children. only once the Temple was in fact destroyed text as guides to how to secure a desired life. pened with other Western religions). Since Later in the parsha, 6:7, Ramban under- that they retrospectively saw the numero- One example of that comes at 4:9, that prophet, too, would have established stands the commandment of ve-shinantam logical correspondence. where the verse warns against forgetting his or her bonafides, we would be left un- le-vanecha, you shall teach it to your chil- what we saw at Sinai. I know of two sourc- sure as to whether to stick with Moshe or dren, as a necessary consequence of mitz- Rabbi Dr. Gidon Rothstein has served in the communi- es in Chazal that read this as about forget- go over to the other prophet’s version. vot being le-doroteichem, an eternal pact ty rabbinate and in educational roles at the high school ting Torah generally (Avot 3:8—with its sim- The personal witness of the events at Si- between us and Hashem. If our national and adult level. He is an author of Jewish fiction and ilar form in Menachot 99b—and Kiddushin nai, hearing Hashem Himself (pardon the covenant depends on mitzvot, how else will nonfiction, most recently “We’re Missing the Point: 30a), but Ramban takes it literally, as a pro- pronoun) address us, was to stress that this the next generation know them if we do What’s Wrong with the Orthodox Jewish Community hibition—which he enumerates as the first Torah is unchangeable, that no later proph- not teach it to them (this Ramban impacts and How to Fix It.” He lives in Bronx, NY, with his wife of those Rambam wrongly omitted from et, no matter how impressive the signs s/ me particularly because of my previous life and three children. 20 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 20 21 PESACH SHEINI

given time at least four, if not 14, different All I Really Need to Know About Teaching types of children in our class, but each child has in them all of the sons depicted in the Children I Learned From the Haggadah Haggadah. Each of us has our moments of brilliance, brashness, bashfulness and those By Rivka Leah Temple paints and googly eyes and have each child are utilized to teach both in a developmen- times we are “not even on the bus!” This is essentially create somewhat identical art pro- tally and cognitively meaningful way. It was why a strong educator community, admin- I remember years jects. But, it is much more meaningful and awe-inspiring to watch the preschoolers in istration and leadership are paramount in ago in Teacher’s Col- challenging for the teacher to let go of the the weeks leading up to Pesach searching for building a great school. lege reading a book ti- “professionalism” of the end product and al- chametz down the hallways of the school, At Stein Yeshiva the world is turned up- tled “All I Really Need to low the child to choose from a variety of ma- washing toys with soapy bubbles in large side-down for the benefit of one child: Know I Learned in Kin- terials to engage in the experience of “frog.” water-play bins, using peelers to cut and Teachers’ schedules and classes are switched, dergarten,” by Robert One frog is made out of a cup and red string taste vegetables, counting to 18 and baking children split their time in different pro- Fulghum. Reading the Haggadah this Pesach, with green paper, another with green pom- matzah. And so much more! Every concept grams, and consultants are brought in to ob- I began thinking that for us in early child- poms and red pipe cleaners. Not only does thought through, explored, and every sense serve and help develop whatever program is hood education, someone should write a each child end up with a frog-like outcome, exploited for the best educational outcome. necessary to provide for that child. Academi- book called “All I Really Need to Know about but the learning that has taken place is expo- Magid. Storytelling. Let me tell you a cally advanced children are challenged scho- Teaching Children I Learned from the Hagga- nentially more valuable than its traditional brief story: When I first started teaching at lastically with age-appropriate activities. A dah!” The Haggadah is the perfect blueprint counterpart. This type of planning and teach- Stein Yeshiva, I was having my lunch break 5-year-old is encouraged to read a chapter for conscious meaningful education in the ing is evident on a daily basis at Stein Yeshiva. in the art room and I heard a terrible rack- book to a friend. A 6-year-old utilizes his divi- spirit and genre of what is attempted and ac- Kadesh tells us the order of things to et in the next classroom. What could it be?! sion prowess to evenly stack chairs into sets complished at Stein Yeshiva. come. We learn from this the importance The pre-1a rebbe was yelling at the top of his during end-of-day tidy-up. One child needs The Seder. The overall structure of the of telling young children in advance what lungs! Why? I couldn’t contain myself, got more sensory play—it is provided. Another Haggadah is that the Passover meal should is coming up next. Knowing what to ex- up and peered through the window on the needs the consistency of only dealing with be taught in a specific order, with specific pect helps the child transition through the door to the classroom. The children were one teacher over the course of the day; this goals and well-defined segments. This is ar- day, providing a sense of flow from one ac- all sitting in a circle looking up at the rebbe, is also provided. This incredible attitude to- guably the most important key to successful tivity to the next. Kiddush also reminds us completely mesmerized and absorbed in the ward the sanctity of the needs of each Jew- teaching. It may look from the outside that that there is kedusha present in Jewish ed- totally incredible, real and powerful story he ish child comes right from the top of our pyr- all you need are some good books, crayons ucation. These are beautiful neshamot that was telling them—with voices and gesticu- amid—our menahel, Rabbi Cherns. He truly and a playground to have a great day with we are imbuing with Yiddishkeit and we, as lations, facial expressions and comedy! That reaches out to all, and we all—children, par- young children, but the meticulous planning teachers, feel privileged every day to teach retelling of the parsha deserved an academy ents and teachers alike—feel it. and preparation of the school day is the es- Jewish kinderlach the love of Torah. award! Magid teaches us that there is telling I could go on, but since most young chil- sential ingredient to successful early child- Walk into any classroom in Stein Yeshi- a story… and there is telling a story!! dren fall asleep after Magid, I think I’ll stop hood education. There is a direct correlation va during davening and see teachers find- Ma Nishtana: Children get to ask the the analogy here. The point has been made— between the hours of preparation spent on ing new ways to show the children that they questions. Teachers should ask questions the Haggadah is a great metaphor for effec- detailed lesson plans, including timing and are precious to Hashem—that they can feel that lead to thought-provoking questions tive early childhood education. In fact, I am transitions, and a successful program that to kedusha through singing and davening to from the children, and they should manip- sure it is a great metaphor for grade-school the untrained eye looks mystifyingly orderly Hashem. Children are singing at the top of ulate the environment to encourage chil- education as well, but I will leave it up to one and seamless. their lungs! Four-year-olds are holding up a dren to ask questions. The statement, “Wow! of our awe-inspiring educators in our Stein It is obvious at Stein Yeshiva in Yonkers, large print “Shema” in lashon hakodesh and What a good question!” is the mantra of Yeshiva Learning Pavilion (Grades 1 through where I teach, that from the daycare though pointing out the words to their friends— a good teacher. Ma Nishtana gives us in- 8) to continue the conversation. I can only at- pre-1a the teachers work well beyond the typ- leading the class in davening! sight into how to get young children to ask test as a parent of two children who attend ical school day in order to plan meaning- Urchatz/Karpas/Yachatz. Washing (tac- pointed questions—like—“Did the Chofetz the yeshiva that the inspiring model of ed- ful learning activities. Even the 3-year-olds’ tile), tasting bitter herbs, hearing matzah Chaim really grow up from a little boy into ucation outlined here is indeed continued teacher posts “educational intentions” out- snapping in half—all of it multisensory to a giant?” The Haggadah shows us that it is throughout the school. So, thank you to our lining the activities and learning centers for the core. The Haggadah is showing us that the unusual and different that stimulates the menahel, Rabbi Cherns, our early childhood the upcoming week so parents and co-teach- in order to teach young children we must student to ask “Why?” So much of our role director, our rebbeim, morahs, support staff ers can see what is in store for the children. create ways to explore the content using all as good teachers is to think of ways to set up and our wonderful parents and students too! Materials are not only prepared and ready for of the child’s senses. This is where thorough the classroom, the activities and manipula- use, but thoughtful attention is given to the planning comes in. A teacher has to think tives (building blocks, loose parts, craft mate- Rivka Leah Temple began in early childhood education developmental appropriateness and flexibili- in advance about how to expose a 2-year- rials) in ways that steer the young child to be in 1987 with the opening of her preschool Gan Noam ty of each activity to allow for maximum ex- old to a learning concept using all five sens- curious. Then the learning can begin. in Toronto, Ont. Mrs. Temple holds a Bachelor of Arts in pression and growth. For example, for the es. The color red can be seen, heard, tasted, The Four Sons. This is the crux of the psychology, education and applied behavioral science. makah of tzfarde’a the children made frogs. felt and rolled over! Sensory bins, science ex- whole “Haggadah as a Model for Educational Prior to teaching at Stein Yeshiva in Yonkers, Rivka Leah There is such a temptation to put out shapes, ploration, scenic walks and silly songs—all Pedagogy” thesis. Not only do we have at any owned a dairy goat farm in Sullivan County New York. REFLECTIONS FROM THE SCHOOLHOUSE

Time and Patience avoid reflex reactions. At the same time, we relationships. All of this, together with the re- his goals and ambitions. It was during one ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 1 encourage our kids to be patient with their spect for and discovery of self, is the formula such conversation that the teacher suggest- demands and in their interactions with oth- for success academically, spiritually, person- ed the field of biomedical engineering as the If we take a step back and think about what ers. In setting these goals for our children ally, creatively and, ultimately, professionally, perfect fit for his intellect and demeanor. He we want and need these words to express, and ourselves, we hope to incorporate our especially when paired with room for chang- tested that suggestion in college and thus we might broaden and deepen the way we understanding of this important quality into es along the way. If we rush this because kids began the course of study, which led him to use and interpret them on a daily basis. our lives. The complexity of our lives today, feel the pressure to meet our own expecta- his major. I was thrilled to learn that one of Individuality is a word that seems to more than ever, calls for an even deeper un- tions so early on, we stifle them rather than our teachers had made such an impact and have taken root in all facets of the education- derstanding of the word. help them along on their journey. Ironically, that our alumnus could not be happier with al world. Students are encouraged to express Parents have always had high expecta- I am reminded of an age-old adage: “Ma she- the path he chose. their individuality and to have the courage tions for their children. It is the old-school lo ya’aseh hasechel, ya’aseh hazman” (time ac- This young man’s happiness and success to stand out as unique individuals. In do- value system—each generation should best complishes what the mind does not). was a direct result of gaining a deeper under- ing so, the perception is that we are support- the prior. In a fast-paced society that empha- A few weeks ago, an alumnus came in standing of his own strengths and talents, ing our children’s need to follow their own sizes a finished product that meets specifi- to discuss a STEAM initiative that we are as well as having had the time and space to path, the path that best accentuates their cations in the least amount of time, this has launching next year. He recently completed discover his true passion and to choose his strengths and talents. All true. However, two led to a completely new definition of suc- a master’s degree in biomedical engineering own individual road. steps are prerequisites to seeking out this in- cess. The consequence is that this has put treat a prestigious university, and works for a A broader definition of patience and individuality. First, the ability and maturity to mendous pressure on kids, and perhaps even company that designs and creates medical dividuality—is this the key to helping our know who you are, and second, what kinds changed the course of their lives prematurely. devices. We started talking about his expe- children lead happy and productive lives? of strengths you actually possess. In order to We must understand that, as with riences at our high school, and mentioned Maybe we should reflect on our own lives express yourself as an individual, you must everything in life, time is our friend. We need that one of his science teachers had actual- and the roads we used; unless they were pre- first know yourself as an individual. the patience to give our children the time ly inspired his career choice. He explained owned… Which leads to our next word, patience. and space to evolve, develop, mature, dis- that this teacher had taken the time not We all strive to have patience with our kids— cover themselves, change and better under- only to teach him but also to talk about his Rabbi Jeffrey Beer is head of school at Westchester He- to give them more time, hear them out and stand this crazy world, their faith and their personal and academic strengths as well as brew High School in Mamaroneck, New York. 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 21 21 22 BOOKS A Promise Kept: Author K. Heidi Fishman Discusses Her New Children’s Holocaust Novel By Bracha K. Sharp who should do it. I was close enough to my protecting her two young children, which Me.com. Through her blog, she said, “peo- mother to ask her the hard questions and was a theme Fishman wanted to contain in ple found me! And I got more material. I Riverdale—I first met K. Heidi Fishman I knew my grandparents and uncle well the book. However, it was important that found out the backstory to my grandfa- when I attended a Highlights Foundation enough to capture their personalities.” the story center around the theme of the ther’s false passport. I learned about my conference called “Writing Jewish-Themed It wasn’t smooth sailing at first, as Tut- Holocaust. “I wanted my readers to under- grandfather saving other families. People Children’s Books.” It was there that Fish- ti “didn’t want me to write it. She was wor- stand that what they were learning in his- came to me and told me things I didn’t al- man was working on drafts of what would ried that I would get depressed because I tory classes wasn’t about ‘six million,’ but ready know. I took several writing classes become her recently released first book, a would be immersing myself in the topic about families and children and moth- and workshops while I was working on children’s Holocaust novel, titled “Tutti’s of the Holocaust. But then, once I showed ers and fathers,” she said. “The meaning of the book. Each one helped me in a differ- Promise,” which details her mother, Ruth her an early draft, she was very excited. She what happened is much more powerful ent way. They challenged me to look at my “Tutti” Lichtenstern Fishman’s, early child- said that the way I had taken her memories when you can see how it affected individu- writing and to make it better.” hood years during that terrible time. and written them into scenes brought her als in their daily lives.” Overall, Fishman was able not only to “Tutti’s Promise” covers the era before family back to life,” Fishman said. produce a Holocaust book that is the war, from her birth in Cologne, Germa- Fishman’s novel is a beautiful sto- a testimony to her entire family’s ny, in 1935, through time spent in her youth ry of utter determination and perse- courage in the face of evil, but also in Amsterdam, followed by concentration verance. Most poignant of all is how to spread her family’s message, one camps, with her own unique perspective she captures the memories of Tut- that her maternal grandmother, Mar- and those of family and friends. Tutti’s sto- ti’s parents, Heinz and Margret Licht- gret, lived and breathed: “Always try ry comes alive through the details of nar- enstern, who worked fearlessly to to do good in the world—by speak- row escapes, and then time spent in West- keep Tutti and her younger brother, ing up when you see evil, and by be- erbork and Theresienstadt camps, up until Robbie, safe. But that’s not all. Heinz having in a way that you know is the Liberation. worked as a metals trader for a Jew- right, no matter what others may be ish company called Oxyde and to- doing” (pg. 207). gether with his colleagues made a It’s something that Fishman be- daring effort to slow down, as Fish- lieves in wholeheartedly. “I want man said, “the [Nazi] war machine.” Tutti and Robbie on March 24, 1943 people to know that we all have to Incredibly, although the fami- get over our personal discomfort ly was interred at the Westerbork Tran- Since the whole idea for this book took with people that are different…we all de- sit-Camp, three families, including Tutti’s, off in that seventh-grade classroom, Fish- serve to live with dignity and freedom. were permitted to return to Amsterdam, man decided that “that was the natural au- We are all people who love our families, outside of the barbed-wire fences, to con- dience. Also, I had seen what books were be- need clean air to breathe and clean water tinue to work for the Oxyde Company. As ing assigned to my middle school children to drink, and want to go to sleep at night long as they traded in scrap metals, Heinz and I didn’t like the selection that the teach- knowing that we are safe,” she said. In- and his fellow Jews were able to convince ers were using. My experience was that they deed, as we read the story of how many the Nazis that all Jews inside Westerbork relied heavily on” a few Holocaust books. times Fishman’s family was saved by were needed too. The Jewish prisoners sort- Books written by Elie Wiesel, Anne Frank friends—and also managed to save oth- ed the metals and were thus able to slip in and Lois Lowry were either not suited for a ers—and lived to tell the story, we can see defective pieces in order to sabotage the ef- young audience or simply did not cover the how this stands out as something miracu- K. Heidi Fishman fectiveness of the war planes and U-boats. entirety of the Holocaust. Fishman sincere- lous to read about. The “Oxyde Jews,” as the Germans called ly “wanted to tell a longer story—invasion Fishman currently lives in Vermont with Fishman holds a doctorate in coun- them, were thus providing what the Nazis to liberation. I was writing separate scenes her husband and four children. She can be seling psychology and spent 20 years as a thought of as aid, but behind the scenes, based on my mother’s memories and they found on the web at www.kheidifishman. therapist—first at Dartmouth College and they were also almost certainly keeping naturally fell into chapters.” com. Learn more about her book at http:// then in private practice. “[I] only decided to more than 1,200 Jews from being sent to However, she says, the book isn’t only www.mbpublishing.com/tuttis-promise. try to write a book after,” she said. Her de- concentration and death camps. Neverthe- for the children’s market. “I always intend- html. For more information, Fishman can be sire to become a writer started when she less, Tutti and her family were eventually ed the book to be for middle grades, but it reached at [email protected]. heard Tutti speak to her daughter’s sev- sent to Theresienstadt. isn’t only a children’s book. It is written so enth-grade class. “When I saw the way her Fishman “started with simply string- as to be accessible to children and to teach Bracha K. Sharp is an assistant preschool teacher, a po- story touched the students, I knew that her ing together my mother’s memories of her them. However, adults are definitely enjoy- etry-prize winner, a writer and an aspiring children’s memories needed to be preserved. At first, time during the war years.” But then she ing the book as well.” picture book author. You can find her writing online at I tried to think of someone else to write learned more about Heinz’s wife, Margret, As Fishman was writing, she was also http://www.scbwi.org/members-public/bracha-orya- the book, but then I realized I was the one who lived in the Nazi camps for over a year maintaining a blog called www.PopjeAnd- edelman-sharp. CHESED America Eats for Israel—All You Have to Do Is Eat! On Monday, May 15, communities hoping that this project raises significant my of the Five Towns and Rockaway, North Elie Hirt, assistant director of student ac- across the United States will join togeth- funds to help impoverished Israelis.” Shore Hebrew Academy High School, and tivities and recruitment at Yeshiva Universi- er in dining at participating kosher restau- Meir Panim’s projects include free res- Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls on ty High School for Boys (MTA) in New York rants to feed hungry Israelis. taurants, meals-on-wheels for the home- Long Island; and Yeshiva University High City, said that students are excitedly recruit- Ten percent of proceeds will go toward bound, prepaid food shopping cards, School for Boys (MTA) in New York City. ing neighborhood restaurants for the event. funding Meir Panim’s Restaurant-Style school lunch programs and after-school “Since America Eats for Israel began…, “Americans are often unaware that Soup Kitchens in Israel. There are 1.7 mil- youth clubs. my family has enthusiastically eaten piz- many Israelis do not know where their lion Israelis who live in poverty—and Jewish students in multiple U.S. cities za, shawarma, hamburgers, donuts, Chi- next meal is coming from—many peo- 800,000 of them are vulnerable children. have recruited participating restaurants, nese food and more happily knowing that ple, especially the elderly, must choose be- For more than a decade, America Eats are working hard to publicize the event and 10 percent of what we paid goes towards tween buying medicine or food,” explained for Israel has been a groundbreaking show are excitedly planning to “eat out for Isra- supporting our people in Israel,” explained Rubin. “America Eats for Israel is a wonder- of solidarity with the needy of Israel. Origi- el” on May 15. Rabbi Sam Wach, youth director for the ful way to show solidarity with the needy nally a Baltimore-based initiative led by stu- Participating schools and groups in- Ner Tamid Youth and Scouts. “As the day of Israel, simply by eating out at your fa- dents of Yeshivat Rambam and then Beth clude Atlantic Seaboard NCSY, Beth El He- approaches, we can feel the excitement vorite restaurant.” Tfiloh Dahan Community School, AEFI is brew School, Beth Tfiloh Dahan Commu- from participating students and communi- For more information on America Eats now a national event. nity School, Krieger Schechter Day School, ty members... I can still picture in my mind for Israel, please visit www.americaeats- “This is a fun way to raise awareness in Ner Tamid Youth and Scouts and Ohr Cha- the students standing on the road waving forisrael.com. the U.S. that Israel has an epidemic of dis- dash Academy in Baltimore; Bruriah High at cars to beckon them to share in this wor- To donate to American Friends of Meir advantaged people who need our help,” School for Girls, Ma’ayanot Yeshiva High thy mission. It is with great pride that Con- Panim, please visit www.meirpanim.org or said Danielle Rubin, project director for School for Girls, and Torah Academy of Ber- gregation Ner Tamid Youth and Scouts will call 877-736-6283. Please mail checks to 5316 American Friends of Meir Panim. “We are gen County in New Jersey; Hebrew Acade- be, once again, taking a lead in this project.” New Utrecht Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219. 22 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 22 23 NEWS FROM ISRAEL Secret Rooftop Garden in Israel Produces Soap While Promoting Inclusion By Ayala Asher “The individuals we assist have many hurdles to overcome, but by focusing on an On a rooftop in the middle of a bus- employment project that facilitates their tling Bat Yam neighborhood, a green oa- integration into the community, we are sis thrives, a vibrant hydroponic garden re- able to help them build self-esteem and sponsible for producing the highest quality develop a sense of security and belonging natural soaps and oils in Israel. This metic- that leads to improved mental health.” ulously maintained collection of herbs and Because the roof garden is the project’s spices is not cared for by the employees main work station, participants are forced of a major Israeli cosmetics manufacturer. to face their fears, which jumpstarts the Rather, it is an innovative nature-based em- healing process. For many, being up on powerment project developed to embold- roof; working with others; and using scis- en and enrich the lives of people with psy- sors, trowels and other sharp tools is in- Gila Nevo, manager of Enosh’s Bat Yam community center, explains the social impact of the chiatric disabilities. credibly stressful. But as they begin tend- SPNI hydroponic roof garden. Run by Enosh, Israel’s Mental Health ing to the garden, nature becomes their (CREDIT: ELIE KLEIN) Association, in partnership with the Soci- “quiet room”—a natural, clean, uncom- ety for the Protection of Nature in Israel plicated and safe space—and their stress else to its community. Some break down “Community gardens strengthen com- (SPNI), the project assists and accelerates slowly melts away. the soil, others provide shade and yet oth- munities and improve quality of life, espe- the rehabilitation process for individuals The garden has also helped lift the stig- ers get rid of bugs. The message for the hu- cially in underprivileged areas. But the roof- with mental illness by allowing them to ex- ma of mental illness in this small corner mans that tend to this and all other gardens top garden at Enosh’s Bat Yam community plore meaningful opportunities for self-de- of the world. While the residents of the is clear: The only way forward is together, center takes this phenomenon to the next velopment and experience the satisfaction surrounding apartment buildings were without prejudice and with our eyes wide level, breaking down societal barriers and of setting and achieving goals through par- initially afraid of people with psychiatric open to appreciate the unique contribu- cultivating a special kind of inclusion. We ticipation in the entire production process disabilities, most of them are now heavi- tions of each individual.” look forward to replicating this model in as of cosmetic soaps. ly invested in the project, volunteering on While SPNI professionals provide the many of the Enosh’s other locations across “The idea is to involve them from the a weekly basis. agricultural know-how required to keep the Israel as possible,” said Jay Shofet, the di- very beginning of the process when the “The community members that volun- garden thriving year round, and MIVNE, a rector of partnerships and development at seeds are planted, show them how to make teer in the garden voice their enthusiasm commercial real estate company, and oth- SPNI, who has been singing the praises of the plants grow and thrive, teach them regularly, letting us and others around the er prominent donors fund the project, the community gardens for decades. new skills when it’s time to extract the oils neighborhood know that maintaining the entire intricate vertical hydroponic irriga- for the production of the soaps and even plants and bonding with the individuals tion system, as well as a small greenhouse, employ them in our on-site gift shop,” ex- in the Enosh program brings extreme hap- a composting system and a koi pond in the plained Gila Nevo, manager of Enosh’s Bat piness and satisfaction into their lives,” community center’s courtyard, were built Yam community center. adds Nevo. by Enosh volunteers from all walks of life. This comes as no surprise to Galia Han- “Thanks to the Ministry of Health, the och-Roeh, director of the SPNI Tel-Aviv Ur- Municipality of Bat Yam, Israel’s National ban Community, who has seen positive im- Insurance Institute, the Weinberg Founda- pact that community gardens have made tion, MIVNE and SPNI, we were able to cre- throughout Israel. ate something magical on our rooftop. An- “Community gardens are an incredi- yone who visits the community center can bly versatile manifestation of sustainable see that our garden is about so much more urban living that allows residents to grow than growing plants,” said Tamar Sadan their own fresh produce while spending Lachs, CEO of Enosh. “Our real triumph quality time with others involved in a nat- lies in our ability to be truly inclusive and ural process. It’s the trifecta of social ad- change the way that Israeli society sees and Cosmetic soaps made with the natural oils vancement, as it encourages nature appre- treats people with disabilities, especially of plants grown in the SPNI hydroponic roof A homemade planter in the SPNI hydroponic ciation and conservation, while breaking those with psychiatric disabilities.” garden at Enosh’s Bat Yam community center roof garden at Enosh’s Bat Yam community down social barriers and building commu- There are over 500 community gardens on display at the on-site gift shop center contains multiple plant species, with nities,” said Hanoch-Roeh. in Israel, and SPNI professionally supports (CREDIT: ELIE KLEIN) each plant lending something else to its “By design, the homemade planters in a large number of them, providing profes- community. Enosh’s garden contain multiple plant spe- sional gardening assistance and working “And if the colorful and fragrant nat- (CREDIT: ELIE KLEIN) cies, with each plant lending something with local municipalities, governmental of- ural soaps in the Enosh gift shop, an em- fices, and both public and private organiza- bodiment of the sweet smell of success, are tions to positively impact and bridge the any indication, real societal change is well IDF Soldiers Celebrate gaps in communities across the country. within our reach.” Independence Day With Young Adults With Special Needs Yom Ha’aztmaut (Israel Independence The International Beit Din Day) has brought together two very differ- arranges gittin/halachic divorce ent sectors of Israeli society to celebrate documents in cases of no-contest divorce the country’s 69th anniversary. Thirty Isra- el Defense Forces soldiers visited Seeach Sod’s adult vocational center in Jerusalem, just ahead of the annual celebrations. It was a unique and off-beat encounter, as where they created festive decorations for Seeach Sod is a lifeline to over 900 chil- the Jewish holidays. The Beit Din is dedicated to helping Agunot, Agunim and those dren, teens, and young adults with special “Everyone, from the soldiers to Seeach victimized by Gett extortion. needs and their families with a variety of Sod’s young adults and staff felt inspired outreach programs. by this encounter. A truly festive atmos- For further information contact our o ce or visit our website. The soldiers were enthusiastically phere resounded throughout the build- Total condentiality is assured. greeted and entertained by “Menachem,” ing. This was a unique meeting, where a young adult with cantorial talents, who Seeach Sod’s young adults felt blessed by Rabbi Simcha Krauss, Av Beit Din performed a rousing rendition of the Ha- the visitors and offered heart-felt bless- Rabbi A. Yehuda Warburg, Menahel tikvah for them. The soldiers were then ings themselves to the soldiers,” said Leah Mr. Stanley Raskas, President treated to a VIP tour of the vocational Mendelowitz, Seeach Sod’s director of in- 444 West 259th Street, Suite 3A (718) 543-1471 [email protected] facility and then broke up into groups, ternational relations. Riverdale, New York 10471 www.internationalbeitdin.org

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 23 23 24 DESTINATION KOSHER Chabad of Hawaii Welcomes Kosher-Keeping Adventurers

By Elizabeth Kratz ral predator, the mongoose, a long-tailed, light brown animal (part of the cat or hy- Oahu—When my ena family that was introduced to Hawaii husband told me his to eradicate the black rat, and failed, as rats next conference of the are nocturnal and mongooses are diurnal) ISLH, the International that runs fast, flush to the ground, and eats Society of Laboratory birds, insects, snakes, lizards and crabs. Our Hematologists, would tour guide, who asked us to call him “Cous- be held in Honolulu, my ears perked up in Jeff,” told us that mongooses can wrestle just a bit (that’s an understatement; I pret- down and eat an entire wild chicken, even ty much hopped up and down with excite- though mongooses are about the same size ment). It had been a long, cold winter in as the squirrels we see at home. Also on the New Jersey. Since I grew up near the beach Big Island, we visited the Punalu’u Black in California, I have always heard about Sand Beach, featuring massive Hawaiian how California’s lovely beaches just don’t green sea turtles sunning themselves on match the incomparable beauty of Hawaii’s volcanic, jet-black jagged rock; fish in the landscape, which encompasses the magnif- crystal-clear bay waters; and a lush tropical icent coral reef; the abundant indigenous landscape. We also made the obligatory vis- wildlife; and of course the Hawai’i Volca- it to the OU-certified Mauna Loa macada- noes National Park. mia nut factory. We missed visiting the Big With the help of my mom and sister-in- Island’s famous Kona coffee plantations, as law, I arranged to join my husband on his it was just not possible to do everything the trip, leaving my children at home so they Big Island had to offer in one day. could enjoy their Yom Ha’atzmaut celebra- Diamond Head, a Hawaii state park and monument, is at the southern tip of Oahu, Back on Oahu, my husband and I took tions in school and get some of that cov- east of Waikiki. an hour-long “doors-off” helicopter trip eted “Grammy and Aunt Mandy time.” I (PHOTO BY ELIZABETH KRATZ) around the island with Novictor Helicop- hasten to note that Hawaii’s outdoor attrac- ters (https://novictorhelicopters.com/). tions would be significantly more limited our honor to pack a few favorite chalav yis- on Thursday night. On Shabbat, the rabbi Though you might be shocked, I didn’t had I been traveling with my small chil- roel items to bring to the rebbetzin from and rebbetzin shared beautiful and inspir- think helicoptering by air without doors dren, though I hope to return with them New Jersey. Since there are no kosher res- ing words of Torah relating to Sefirah and was a particularly daredevil experience. when they are teenagers. taurants in Hawaii, we also brought a few the weekly parsha with the approximately Novictor crew members told us they have My husband’s conference hotel, the Ala deli meats and hard cheeses, and ordered 70 guests, comprising both locals and vis- never had an accident and the doors-off ex- Moana, was right next door to the Chabad some delicious, freshly prepared fleishig itors, whose incessant conversation and perience just means it’s a little more windy of Hawaii, so I wasted no time contact- meals from Oahu Kosher (http://www.oa- playing of Jewish geography lasted before, and one’s picture taking is not hindered by ing them to ask my questions. Rabbi Itch- hukosher.com), a catering company with a during and far past the spirited mealtimes. glass. Our tour on a beautiful, clear morn- el and Rebbetzin Pearl Krasnjansky came la carte weekday and Shabbat options led I very much enjoyed attending the rebbetz- ing featured aerial views of the entire is- to Honolulu almost three decades ago as by another Lubavitcher couple, Chef Yudi in’s weekly Torah class for women after land, including Diamond Head State Park, young shluchim for the Lubavitcher Reb- and Estee Weinbaum, members of the lo- mincha. Chabad of Hawaii was a majestic Jurassic Valley (where Jurassic Park was be and, now with their seven children, cal community in Oahu. port for us on this beautiful, unforgettable some of whom still live on the island, have We also signed up to join the Chabad island, and I urge you to make plans to visit set down roots and grown the communi- community for Shabbat meals, and we these special shluchim as soon as you can. ty from the inside out. (Their oldest daugh- even enjoyed our first-ever “Internation- With our spiritual needs fully cared for, ter, Suri Tilson, however, lives locally and al Dateline Shabbat,” savoring the novel- we could then turn to the fun and extreme- teaches kindergarten at Tenafly’s Lubavitch ty of not performing any activity forbid- ly accessible adventuring, and my wish to on the Palisades.) There are always min- den on Shabbat mid’Oraita (directly from find a way to make the special oseh ma’aseh yanim and festive meals on Shabbat and the Torah) on Thursday night through Fri- bereshit (Who reenacts the work of crea- Yom Tov (and some minyanim during the day at sunset. We did this due to a halach- tion) bracha, a blessing one can make upon week as well when possible), and there is ic uncertainty that our rabbanim at home seeing something that has existed from the a mikvah available for women, by appoint- had explained regarding visitors who ap- time of Hashem’s six days of creation, es- ment only. proach the International Dateline, which sentially a natural wonder. At first my hus- All my kashrut questions were answered Rebbetzin Krasnjansky noted is not part band and I thought we would be able to easily and attentively, and I was directed to of their minhag or observance. As they live make the bracha together when we took a local grocery stores where I was able to buy there year round, there is no machloket (To- day trip on Hawaiian Airlines from Honolu- fruits, vegetables and major brands bearing rah debate) that Shabbat occurs from sun- lu/Oahu to “The Big Island,” also known as Rebbetzin Pearl Krasnjansky is the co-director national kosher symbols to make lunches set Friday to sundown Saturday, just like Hawai’i, to visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes Na- of Chabad of Hawaii. and dinners for our day trips. There are no everywhere else. However, ever welcoming tional Park, the home of Mauna Loa, the (PHOTO BY ELIZABETH KRATZ) kosher meats or chalav yisroel dairy prod- and supportive, they invited me to bench world’s largest active volcano, which has ucts available for retail purchase, so it was licht (light candles) in the Chabad house erupted 33 times since 1843, and still flows filmed, and where great hikes and ATV rid- active lava. However, while we had a won- ing are available), the Dole pineapple fields derful and instructive time there (learn- and factory, the North Shore and its incred- ing about volcanoes, the formation of rock ible coral reef (so bright white it’s visible and a volcano’s magma, which, only when from the air) and world-famous surf, as it reaches the earth’s surface is called lava), well as Pearl Harbor, Hawaii’s number one we only saw the glow of the lava from the tourist destination, which welcomes 1.8 volcanic crater for a minute or two before million people to its visitors center annu- our tour bus had to take us back to catch ally. From the air, we could see the sunk- our flight “home” to Honolulu. en battleship tomb of the USS Arizona But the Big Island was by no means a through the clear water. The same type of wasted day—quite the opposite. Our bus helicopter option was also recommended tour was with Robert’s Hawaii (https:// to us if we planned to visit other islands www.robertshawaii.com/), one of the re- such as Maui or Kauai, but we unfortunate- gion’s oldest tour companies, which has ly only had time for two of the eight Ha- been giving tours since 1941—18 years be- waiian islands on this trip. fore Hawaii was even a US state! We en- We also took a stunning sunset cruise joyed visiting Rainbow Falls and seeing up to and back from Diamond Head, on chameleon lizards all over. It was a thrill to a Hawaii Glass Bottom Boat (https://ha- see mango, guava, lychee and papaya trees waiiglassbottomboats.com/), a 50-foot cat- as well as fiddleback ferns growing essen- amaran that touts closed glass portholes in Elizabeth Kratz, in the background, found snorkeling the coral reef to be a meaningful, fun and tially in the wild, or in people’s back yards, the bottom of the boat to see the reef scen- accessible adventure in Hawaii. in addition to colorful birds and wild chick- CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE (PHOTO COURTESY OF OCEAN JOY CRUISES) ens. We also saw the island birds’ natu- ÂÂ 24 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 24 25 DESTINATION KOSHER

ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE and every snorkeler, experienced or not, is, by contract, required to wear a life jacket, ery below. Because the water was some- though strong swimmers do not have to in- what murky the evening we went, likely flate them. My uninflated life jacket did not due to the wave pattern, wildlife was not hinder my swimming. We also were issued visible on our cruise, and we were invited fins, a mask and snorkel. back to join them again for a discount. But Thus equipped, the fun really began. As we still had a wonderful time enjoying the soon as my mask went underwater, and I unlimited beverages, alcoholic and non, adjusted to being a “mouth breather,” I was and watched the sun go down over the able to see and fully enjoy the amazing and deep blue water. colorful wildlife that thrives just beneath With my husband’s conference start- the surface of the 30-foot-deep coral reef, ing, I then spent the next two days solo which houses all kinds of marine life. One (and making new friends) on two separate sea turtle came so close to me I could have boat snorkeling expeditions on two coasts reached out and touched it, but we had of Oahu. My Hydrochic skirt and rashguard been warned not to because it’s apparent- swimsuit (which I bought through an ad ly illegal for humans to touch these endan- printed by The Jewish Link last summer!) gered animals; we were told if we touched and the person wearing it, had never been them, the oils on our hands would given so excited. I used Hawaii Nautical (https:// them tumors, plus touching them incurs a Guests at Chabad of Hawaii are welcomed with a surfboard emblazoned with a Bruchim www.hawaiinautical.com/) for a trip off the $7,000 fine. As if another disincentive were Haba’im message. coast of Waikiki, near our hotel, and Ocean needed, I did see a sign at the black sand (PHOTO BY ELIZABETH KRATZ) Joy Cruises (http://www.oceanjoycruises. beach telling people not to touch turtles com/) for a crack-of-dawn departure trip because they bite! the tourist experience, and the locals know The Chabad of Hawaii and/or Oahu Kosher off the Waianae (western) coast of Oahu. I also saw sea urchins, coral and fish how to provide that as well, in spades. Catering help families plan special events Ocean Joy was more expensive than Ha- in practically every color of the rainbow. All in all, Hawaii is a beautiful place, such as weddings, anniversary parties and waii Nautical, as the Ocean Joy catamaran Swimming right on the coral reef in the and if you love nature or beaches, I urge sheva brachot. Chabad is in need of funds was “more fancy,” with a few more amen- Pacific Ocean, I was finally inspired to say you to consider it for your next vacation. to stay in their current building, which is ities, and travels out about 40 miles to a my special bracha when I saw one of the Be sure to get in touch with Chabad of Ha- across the street from the Honolulu Con- quieter part of the coral reef, where more most unusual and beautiful fish I have waii and visit them at http://www.chabad- vention Center at the entrance to Waikiki. fish are visible. We also saw a wonderful- ever seen, and I’m not even sure what it ofhawaii.com/ to support their important You may donate online, send checks to 410 ly large pod of 30 to 40 Hawaiian spinner was (striped, yellow, white, black and blue, work, which most recently included host- Atkinson Dr, Honolulu, HI 96814 or call the dolphins which, true to their name, leapt with two tails)! I took back to snorkeling ing over 170 people for Pesach sedarim, office at 808-735-8161. They await your vis- off the water and spun right in front of us. “like a fish to water,” and was thrilled to be and helping to cater two separate 50-per- it and you may, in fact, hear a greeting in It was actually sort of unbelievable, and the first one in and one of the last out on son sedarim. They help Israelis and oth- the Chabad House that I’ve never heard an- oddly, it seemed like the dolphins knew my second day. er Jews who live and work there to kasher ywhere else: Shaloha! we were enjoying the show. However, Ha- Two things to note: If whale watching their kitchens and put up mezuzot, and as- Learn more about the Krasnjanskys and waii Nautical, at half the price, took us out is on your bucket list, go to Hawaii from sist many travelers like us in ensuring reg- get Hawaii visitor FAQ here: http://www. on a great day for snorkeling with sea tur- December through April, when your boats ular access to kosher food, minyanim and chabadofhawaii.com/templates/articlecco_ tles, and I swam with about half a dozen of will virtually guarantee humpback whale a mikvah. They even have a small school. cdo/aid/115473/jewish/Tourist-Info.html these gigantic, beautiful creatures, so they sightings. Second, if you are with a group and don’t feel like spending a lot of mon- were both excellent experiences. SERVING BRONX, Both of my snorkeling trips also in- ey, you can see the same coral reef I did by WESTCHESTER, CT & cluded a buffet lunch, but I brought my swimming out from many beaches, with SURROUNDING AREAS own kosher snacks and no one noticed or snorkel gear, scuba or “snuba” (half snorkel, cared. Plus, who wants to eat when there’s half scuba) gear, or of course try out surf- so much to see? Both crews offered love- ing or surf paddling on the world famous ly options for both non-alcoholic and alco- North Shore. I was told one of the best lo- holic beverages. cal places near Waikiki for beach snorke- While I am a strong swimmer and a for- ling is Hanauma Bay, and for approximate- mer camp lifeguard/water safety instruc- ly $10 one can rent gear and lockers to place tor, I had not snorkeled probably in 25 your valuables. years. “Believe me, the technology has not Finally, regarding transport: We used changed,” my Hawaii Nautical crew captain Uber to get around with great success (just assured me. Snorkeling is by no means dif- as good as New York/New Jersey, and cheap- ficult for beginners, and a good number of er than taxis), though many of our excur- the people on each of my trips were snor- sions offered complimentary hotel rides keling for the first time. The water is warm from Waikiki. The Uber drivers were, as ever, and refreshing year round. Each day, the great local sources of suggestions from the boat’s captain and crew went over the same more authentic, less touristy perspective. brief sets of directions and safety protocols, But most people come to Hawaii wanting

ASK FOR MICHAEL

A Hawaiian green sea turtle suns itself on the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Big Island. (PHOTO BY ELIZABETH KRATZ)

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 25 25 26 F OD & W NE LINK BRONX, WESTCHESTER & CONNECTICUT THE KOSHER DINNER LADY

flour mixture by rubbing it together with Strawberry Shortcake, Cream on Top your fingers, until combined. (Don’t over blend, mixture should be lumpy). Add 2/3 By Rachel Berger get overlooked. Shavuot is the perfect time ed strawberries to up the umph factor, and cup heavy cream and egg, and stir togeth- to use real butter, cream and milk choco- I think you will agree it adds some sophisti- er to combine. Divide the mixture into 6 People seem to late. So I think it’s time to make strawber- cation to this homey dessert. Enjoy! mounds on a parchment-covered baking think that cheesecake ry shortcake. And drizzle it with milk choc- (Of course, I am still going to make a sheet. Bake in the middle shelf of the oven is the only dessert for olate. (My son said the chocolate didn’t cheesecake for the holiday, because, well, for about 12 minutes, or until the biscuits Shavuot. And there are belong on the strawberry shortcake, so I cheesecake!) are puffed and golden. Gently place the bis- so many different var- couldn’t do it, but feel free to go ahead!) cuits on a cooling rack. iations of cheesecake So what exactly is strawberry shortcake? Strawberry Shortcake Scented In another bowl, combine the diced that there isn’t even enough holiday to Traditionally, it’s a biscuit-like cake, split in with Orange Liqueur strawberries, sugar, liqueur and orange eat them all. (It almost seems like a good half and filled with 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour zest, and allow to rest while the biscuits reason to make Shavuot eight days!) Even macerated strawberries 2 tablespoons sugar are cooking and cooling. After the biscuits I tend to think of Shavuot as the “cheese- and whipped cream. ½ teaspoon salt have cooled, whip 2 cups heavy cream un- cake holiday.” So how did that happen? Sounds good. Actually, 1 tablespoon baking powder til it can hold a peak and mix in the con- How did cheesecake become synonymous it sounds amazing. Over ½ cup butter (1 stick), cold fectioner’s sugar and vanilla. Combine half with Shavuot? If I can hazard a guess, I the years, I think any and diced the whipped cream with the strawberries. would say it’s because most of our holi- kind of cake layered 2/3 cup heavy cream To assemble: Carefully cut the biscuit days are centered around meat meals, and with a mixture of straw- 1 egg, lightly beaten in half, and spoon a generous amount of Shavuot is pretty much the only time we berries and whipped 2 cups diced strawberries strawberries and cream onto the bottom are supposed to make a festive dairy meal cream became known 2 tablespoons sugar half. Cover with the top of the biscuit, and (for many, many reasons, as my research re- as a strawberry short- 2 tablespoons orange liqueur put a dollop of the plain whipped cream vealed). Most desserts can be made parve, cake. You can make it as rustic or as fancy as (I used Sabra) on top. Garnish with a strawberry. Feel free but cheesecake? There is just no substitute. you like, with homemade cake, angel food Zest of ½ an orange to drizzle with chocolate, if desired. Repeat (Do not talk to me about parve cheesecake, cake, pound cake, a store-bought one, or skip 2 cups heavy cream with remaining biscuits. because I just don’t get the point.) the cake altogether and just enjoy the straw- 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar That being said, since it is a given that berries and cream. Either way it’s a great end 1 teaspoon vanilla Rachel is a recovering real estate attorney, currently pre- we are all going to make or buy a cheese- to a meal, and fulfills the dairy element in a To make the biscuits: paring to check her cholesterol level in June. Check out cake (or have a good friend make one for dessert for Shavuot. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Whisk her blog at thekosherdinnerlady.com and follow her on us, ahem), I thought it would be a good Go ahead and try this simple dessert. I together the flour, sugar, salt and bak- Facebook and Instagram @TheKosherDinnerLady. You time to talk about other dairy desserts that added some orange liqueur to my macerat- ing powder. Combine the butter to the can contact her at [email protected].

In our family, one of our daughters has though rarely if ever does it get used. It has Memories of Shavuots Past taken it upon herself to collect all of our fa- become much easier to buy Golden Blintz- vorite recipes and compile them into individ- es, I am ashamed to say. We were definite- By Nina Glick together with his children. Three cheesecakes ual cookbooks with family pictures and an- ly a family that relished dairy meals. Shavuot in a family one might think is excessive; then ecdotes. Each time a new member enters the was a welcome change. Since those days we In our family, as a again, none of you have ever tasted my moth- family, she is presented with a copy of this have learned of families who insist on hav- child growing up, I reer’s cheesecake. I taste it in my mouth to this book, which is constantly being updated. ing meat meals throughout the chag. Some member the chart that day. It was sweet and tart and had an amazing, Another memory I have of our family cel- have a dairy treat, wait some time and then my mother would hang soft crust, and regrettably she never passed on ebrating Shavuot was my mother making indulge in a large meat meal. As they say in over my father’s armoire. her recipe to me. I still wonder what ingredi- blintzes for all of us. She would take a bed French, chacun a son gout—each to his own. It was her annual sefirah ents were used to make the memory of it so sheet and drape it across the kitchen table. The custom of staying up to learn for the chart. If we would each remember to count indelible in my mind. I think that she used She would then prepare the cheese mixture, entire night was unheard of in our surround- sefirah each day our reward would be an in- regular cottage cheese but, again, I will nev- which I do remember had “pot cheese” in it. ings. Over the years I have watched what dividual cheesecake. Interestingly, perhaps a er know. From this lack of knowledge I real- Today I think the equivalent of pot cheese once seemed to be totally abnormal turn into sign of the way things used to be, my moth- ize the importance of passing on special fam- is farmer’s cheese. There was always a tang what today is considered de rigueur. Often I er never counted sefirah. It was the man’s job ily recipes to our children. of cinnamon in the mixture and I relished wonder what could be next on the horizon. the task of licking the beaters and wiping Although I do not have the recipe for my up the bowl with a spoon. Another memo- mother’s cheesecake, I do have her easy-tory is my mother taking out her prized tiny make, always delicious baked macaroni and www.edenwoknr.com frying pan, which was used only for her cheese recipe. I guarantee that everyone will 10% to make the blintz outer layer (sort of like love it—especially your children. OFF! crepes). I still own her blintz frying pan, al- Chag Sameach. CASH ONLY. NOT VALID ON SUNDAYS, MONDAYS AND HOLIDAYS. Delicious Baked Macaroni MUST PRESENT COUPON. EXPIRES 6/30/17. and Cheese make sure that it does not burn. Once We Now Deliver to Riverdale and Westchester. melted add a Tbsp of butter and blend in The Finest Glatt Kosher Chinese Restaurant and Sushi Bar Boil 1 lb. of macaroni (I use elbow) in as it is melting. salt water and pour cold water over it as Mix cheese mixture with noodles and it drains. pour into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle Preheat oven to 350. with paprika. Dot with little pieces of but- Melt in saucepan 1 lb. of sliced Amer- ter and pour milk into dish so that is almost 1327 North Ave Under Strict Kashruth of the Phone: 914-637-9363 ican cheese together with 1 ½ cups of reaches the top of the noodle mixture. New Rochelle Vaad Harabonim of Queens Fax: 914-637-9371 milk and a pinch of pepper, and cook Bake for 45 minutes. Should be crisp New York 10804 E-mail: [email protected] until cheese melts. Stir often in order to on top.

26 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 26 27

Published the THE HEALTH LINK First Issue of Every Month BRONX, WESTCHESTER & CONNECTICUT What’s the Deal With Fluoride?

By Dr. Brian Kalb of age, fluoride becomes incorporated into of your oral hygiene regimen, these fluo- the development of the permanent teeth. ride products have been proven to truly Fluoride. What is Adults who are prone to tooth decay can strengthen the integrity of your teeth. it? What does it do? benefit from fluoride as well to help pre- I am commonly asked about fluoride Who needs it? And vent future breakdown. It will help speed supplements for young children. I defer to where do we find it? remineralization as well as disrupt acid my medical colleagues to make that deci- These are all questions production in the mouth. sion on a case-by-case basis. It all depends. that come through my Where do we find it? First place, and And we must be careful. We do find that office daily. I recently realized that fluo- the cheapest source, is our tap water. The many children are deficient; however, we ride is a big mystery to many patients as ADA has proven after 70 years of optimal don’t want them over-fluoridated as well. well as referring health professionals. Its levels of fluoride in community water that Some mothers are using bottled water perception and guidelines are constantly it is safe and effective in preventing tooth in formula, and others are using tap. changing (like many things in life). So, let’s decay by at least 25 percent in both chil- Please use caution; excessive levels of spend a few moments to get a better un- dren and adults. Simply by drinking tap fluoride can produce dental or skeletal derstanding of this substance, and hope- water, most Americans can benefit from fluorosis. fully walk away a bit more educated in its cavity prevention. The CDC, Center for As far as individual recommendations, our understanding of its necessity and ap- Disease Control, named community wa- I strongly advise you to speak with your my observations, as well as those of other propriate use. ter fluoridation one of the 10 great public dentist and physician. Discuss your daily dentists, and each individual, along with We start off with a bit of science. Fluo- health achievements of the 20th century. habits, diets and the type of water you use, their dentist and physician, should find the ride is the 13th most abundant element on The ADA says that “water that has been and determine together where you stand best diet for themselves for a healthy life.) the earth’s crust. It is found naturally in soil, fortified with fluoride is similar to fortify- with your fluoride needs. water, foods and several minerals. Its con- ing milk with Vitamin D, table salt with So, our takeaway is that fluoride is tru- Dr. Brian Kalb is a comprehensive restorative den- centration found in seawater is very high iodine, and cereals and beads with folic ly a proven “first line of defense” in the pre- tist treating patients of all ages. He enjoys creating while in fresh water it’s typically low. Fluo- acid.” Research has shown that there is 60 vention of tooth decay. Consult with your healthy, beautiful smiles every day and making pa- ride is also synthesized, man-made in labo- percent less tooth decay among children dentist and make sure you are where you tients feel like part of his family. He maintains a pri- ratories. It is made to add to drinking water, in fluoridated areas. The fluoridation of need to be. vate practice in New Rochelle, as well as Lawrence, as well as what we are more familiar with, community water supplies is only an ad- Keep Drinking Water... New York. Feel free to contact him at any time at his toothpaste and mouthwashes. justment of the naturally occurring fluo- (Now, the disclaimer is that these are email, [email protected]. ride levels in the drinking water to an ideal recommended level of 0.7-1.2 parts per million. (So, check into your local city water department.) So, what if you drink bottled water? Or you are part of what I call the “water-cool- er” generation. Are you missing out? Well, there is no scientific study that suggests that water-bottle drinkers are at an in- creased risk for decay. Obviously, there are many factors such as diet, keeping up with your routine dental care and oral hygiene that contribute as well. However, the Amer- ican Dental Association says that such people could be missing out on the positive effects of the fluoride present in the local tap water, and that you receive benefit So, what does fluoride do? It is prov- from drinking and using it in your foods for en to protect the teeth in two ways: dem- cooking. Most bottled waters do not con- ineralization and remineralization. Dem- tain optimal levels of fluoride; however, ineralization occurs when bacteria in the some have added to it (check your labels). mouth combine with sugars and produce We can also find fluoride in our tooth- acid. This acid, sometimes in an already paste. That’s an easy one. Brush twice a day acidic environment due to our diets, can with an ADA-approved fluoridated paste, erode the enamel of our teeth. Fluoride or gel, and that goes a long way. We take has the ability to protect this demineraliza- that benefit for granted, assuming that all tion caused by acid. Remineralization is the paste contains fluoride. However, recently strengthening of the damaged areas caused I have had a few adult patients shown new by acid, in which fluoride can play a role. signs of decay, and began to question their Too much demineralization without rem- habits. Their diet was fairly healthy and or- ineralization to repair the damaged enamel ganic. And then they brought me in their layers leads to tooth decay. (I need a breath new holistic toothpaste they began to use after that one...) a few months ago. It had no fluoride pres- Fluoride is extremely useful in prevent- ent. Hmmm. This was the only change in ing cavities and making teeth stronger. It their routine. For this patient, this absence helps prevent decay by making the teeth re- of fluoride paste in their brushing rou- sistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria tine may very well be a contributing fac- and sugars in the mouth. It can also reverse tor. (Look for those ADA seals on products; early signs of tooth decay. However, once they are there for a reason.) cavities have formed, it is less effective. There are also fluoride rinses and flu- So, who needs fluoride? Well, it de- oride treatments. Both are excellent ways pends, but virtually everyone. Children to help reinforce enamel in children and need fluoride to protect their teeth as they adults. During your dental check-up visits are being formed. In children under 6 years as well as using routinely at home as part 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 27 27 28 THE HEALTH LINK Natural Ways to Support Infant Health During Pregnancy

(StatePoint) In the last 10 years, scien- environmental toxins and exposure to un- tists have learned that having enough ben- necessary antibiotics. eficial gut bacteria is a critical component Many doctors, midwives and other ex- of overall health. Now, research shows that perts are touting the health benefits of one ensuring newborns have sufficient expo- supplement for expecting and new moth- sure to probiotic bacteria during infancy ers believed to increase a child’s chances for and early childhood can give them a head a healthy start at life: probiotics. start on lifelong wellness. “As a mom, the best gift you can give What makes bacteria so important? your baby is a healthy microbiome,” says Well, with nearly 80 percent of the immune Jamie Morea, co-founder of Hyperbiotics, a system residing in the gut, a healthy micro- company that specializes in probiotic sup- bial makeup from birth is essential for prop- plements and has developed the first probi- er immune system development and opti- otic formula designed specifically for preg- mal digestive, metabolic, and brain function. nant and breastfeeding women. When looking to encourage a healthy in- Hyperbiotics PRO-Moms includes fant microbiome (AKA the array of bacteria time-release delivery for enhanced effec- and microorganisms in the body), science tiveness, ensuring the living organisms tells us that the mother’s gut health is key. survive stomach acids to colonize with- Here’s how it works: during pregnancy, in the gut. babies are exposed to their mother’s bac- Not only can probiotics help with diges- teria in the placenta, which harbors a vari- tive discomfort during pregnancy, but an ef- ety of microbes. A baby’s immune system fective supplement can repopulate a moth- begins to develop just after birth, during er’s system and help ensure she is passing which a mother passes on her beneficial on the best and most beneficial bacteria to bacteria to her child (often termed “seed- her children. ing the microbiome”) as he or she passes PHOTO CREDIT: (C) POLOLIA - FOTOLIA.COM To learn more about how to support op- through the vaginal canal and partakes in timal gut health for moms and babies, visit breast milk and skin-to-skin contact. Expecting and nursing mothers can be best to stay well-rested and properly hy- hyperbiotics.com or join the conversation Then, through an interactive connec- proactive by ensuring their gut health is drated while paying close attention to on social media at #followyourgut. tion between host cells and the baby’s in tip-top condition, since the microbes their diet. Focusing on getting proper pre- Because gut and microbial health have brand new gut microbiome (inherited di- they pass on to their infant can help es- natal nutrition in the form of whole and an overwhelming impact on lifelong well- rectly from the mother), helpful microor- tablish a solid foundation for lifelong plant-based foods, especially those rich in ness, tending to it while expecting is one of ganisms selectively colonize the gut and health. prebiotic fiber is important. It’s also help- the most important things to consider for participate in the maintenance and promo- In addition to directly replenishing ful to be mindful of factors that deplete mothers-to-be in order to properly pave the tion of the child’s immune system. their good bacteria, moms should do their good bacteria, like antimicrobials, stress, path of health for little ones.

RIVERDALE NEW ROCHELLE Cafeccino 269 West 230th Street Cong. Anshe Sholom 50 North Avenue HOW CAN I Carlos and Gabbys 5685 Riverdale Ave Eden Wok 1327 North Avenue Chabad 535 West 246th Street Heisler's Bakery 1321 North Avenue Conservative Synagogue 475 West 250th Street New Roc Glatt 77 Quaker Ridge Road GET A COPY Corner Café 3718 Riverdale Ave Swirl 1301 North Ave Geshmake Fish 513 W 236th St Westchester Torah Academy 1000 Pinebrook Blvd OF THE Glatt Shop 3540 Johnson Avenue Young Israel of New Rochelle 1149 North Avenue Gruenebaums 5663 Riverdale Ave SCARSDALE Hamakolet 3714 Riverdale Ave Jewish Community Center 999 Wilmot Rd JEWISH LINK? Hebrew Home for the Aged 5901 Palisade Avenue Sammy's Bagels 1461 Weaver Street 3700 Henry Hudson Parkway Hebrew Institute of Riverdale Seasons 1066 Wilmot Rd 3115 Corlear Avenue Kingsbridge Center of Israel MAMARONECK Signup for Kinneret Day School 2600 Netherland Avenue Westchester Day School 856 Orienta Avenue Mother's Bakery 548 W 235th St YI Scarsdale is in Scarsdale 1313 Weaver Street Ohavei Torah 450 West 250th Street free home delivery HARRISON Pizza Block 5663 Riverdale Ave Young Israel of Harrison 91 Union Ave Pizza Plus 3718 Riverdale Ave at: www.jewishlinkbwc.com WHITE PLAINS Riverdale Jewish Center 3700 Independence Avenue Young Israel of White Plains 135 Old Mamaroneck Rd Riverdale Kosher Market 5683 Riverdale Ave Hebrew Institute of White Plains 20 Greenridge Ave Riverdale Y 5625 Arlington Avenue MT KISCO SAR Academy 655 West 254th Street Mount Kisco Hebrew Congregation 15 Stewart Pl SAR High School 503 W 259th St Pickup a copy at any GREENWHICH Second Helping 3532 Johnson Avenue Carmel Academy 270 Lake Avenue 5681 Riverdale Ave Skyview Wines Chabad 75 Mason St of the following locations: Torah V'Chesed Nanash 629 West 239th Street STAMFORD 3880 Sedgwick Avenue Van Cort Jewish Center Bi-Cultural Day School 2186 High Ridge Rd. 4502 Henry Hudson Parkway Yong Israel of Riverdale Cong. Agudat Sholom 301 Strawberry Hill Ave Young Israel Ohab Zedek 6015 Riverdale Avenue Cafe Stam 1035 New eld Ave EINSTEIN Fairway Market 699 Canal Street Albert Einstein Synagogue 1925 Eastchester Road Apt. 1B Six Thirteen 108 Prospect Street YONKERS Soosh 2701 Summer Street Lincoln Park Jewish Center 311 Central Park Ave Stamford Jewish Community Center 1035 New eld Ave Stein Yeshiva 287 Central Park Avenue WASHINGTON HEIGHTS 69 Oaklawn Ave MT VERNON Mt Sinai Congregation 135 Bennett Ave Fleetwood Synagogue 11 Broad Street Eeast Yeshiva University 2501 Amsterdam Ave.

28 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 28 29 THE HEALTH LINK 10. Make sure to eat enough protein Get Ready for Your Simcha each day. 11. Remember—moderation is the key! By Jamie Feit Any questions? I can help! Contact me at [email protected] or call The omer is end- me at 914-304-4008, ext. 3108 ing; graduation, bar and bat mitzvahs and Fish With Vegetables weddings are coming All in One Pan up. Do you think about Ingredients: losing weight, eating Olive oil cooking spray healthy, and looking your best? Take my 4 (4 oz.) fish fillets (salmon, cod, halibut) advice and you can and will! 1 small eggplant, chopped First, let’s review some basic nutri- 1 red onion, chopped tion guidelines for losing weight and cut- 2 colored peppers, sliced ting inches in a healthy way. Most impor- 1 zucchini or summer yellow squash, tantly—avoid all fad diets, do not avoid sliced whole food groups and avoid any diet or 1 small container of cherry tomatoes meal plan that makes you feel hungry all 1 tablespoon of fresh herb of your day long. The best diet is one that you can choice maintain and stay on without feeling de- 1-2 cloves garlic prived. Feeling hungry all the time is the 1 lemon, zest and juice surest way to fail and not lose weight or salt gain it right back! pepper When it comes to following a weight loss plan, the best one to follow and stay 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. on is the one you are prepared to follow. 2. Spray a large roasting dish with olive Changing your lifestyle is not easy, so it’s serving of ice cream or a piece of choco- all carbohydrates are created equal. Fruits, oil cooking spray. important to find a plan that suits you best. late. Instead of viewing these indulgences vegetables and carbohydrates that contain 3. Spread all the vegetables except the For example, if dairy is a staple in your diet, as slip-ups or as cheating, we need to view whole grains are good carbohydrates that tomatoes evenly in the pan. it is not reasonable to embark on a meal them as treats or rewards that you deserve are sometimes referred to as lean carbo- 4. Spray to cover with the olive oil cook- plan that eliminates dairy completely. Eat occasionally. Don’t punish yourself! Enjoy hydrates or “clean” foods, as they are low ing spray; cook for 10 minutes. dairy in moderation. In order for a lifestyle the reward of an occasional ice cream or in calories and contain plenty of fiber. Fib- 5. Place fish fillets on top, season with plan to be sustainable, it can’t be too rigid. piece of chocolate, and then get right back er is good—it fills you up but doesn’t add salt and pepper. Flexibility is the key. No one can be held to to the program and eat healthy again! weight! Highly processed foods such as 6. Sprinkle herb of choice, lemon zest a perfect standard—the magic is in learning Now, let’s talk about carbohydrates for white-flour bread or pasta do not fill you and lemon juice and spray again with cook- how to be compliant most of the time, but a minute. Although carbohydrates get a up but instead make you more hungry and ing spray; cook for 6 minutes or so. accepting that sometimes it’s ok to have a bad rap and come in and out of favor, not make you eat more. These are not lean car- 7. Top with tomatoes and cook for a few bohydrates. Eat lean carbohydrates as they more minutes until tomatoes are warm contain enough fiber or protein to delay and fish is cooked through. the absorption of carbohydrates in your 8. Enjoy! WEIGHTLOSS CAMP body. The result is that you will be full and will eat less. Jamie Feit MS, RD received her bachelor of business Here are some tips to get started on administration degree from The George Washington your healthy eating plan: University and her master of science degree in clin- 1. Set realistic goals. ical nutrition from New York University. Jamie com- 2. Plan simple, low-calorie meals ahead pleted her dietetic internship in affiliation with Mount for each night. Sinai Medical Center. Before starting Jamie Feit Nutri- 3. Don’t eat past 7 p.m. tion, LLC, Jamie was a wellness educator for 1199 Un- 4. Exercise daily. Start slow. ion Benefits Program, an independent nutrition con- • Lose 15-55 lbs. 4. Consume 25-35 g of fiber per day. sultant and held a variety of positions at Mount Sinai GLATT 5. Drink a lot of water, approximately 64 Medical Center, including nutrition supervisor at the • Trusted for 49 years ounces per day. diabetes center, and research coordinator and clinical KOSHER 7. Eat lean carbohydrates and stick to 3 nutritionist in the Division of Endocrinology. Jamie pro- • Safe & Supervised servings per day. vides per diem coverage at Blythedale Children’s Hospi- • Ages 7-17 and 18-25 8. Consume 2-3 servings of fruit per day. tal and currently works part time at Westmed Medical 9. Eat unlimited amounts of non- Group in the healthy measures weight management • Nutrition & Cooking Classes starchy vegetables each day and keep them department. Jamie is also a pampered chef consultant handy and within reach at all times to re- because she loves to cook, entertain and serve healthy • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy duce hunger pangs. kosher food. • Fun, Friends, Happiness • Beautiful Grounds TEFILATEFILA SERVICESSERVICES

SHABBOSSHABBOS PROGRAMPROGRAM

David & Ziporah Ettenberg Camp Shane Owner’s/Directors (914) 271-4141 Optional Glatt Kosher & Cholov Yisroel www.campshane.com meals under the supervision of Rabbi Zushe Blech of Monsey o [email protected]

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 29 29 30 SCHOOLS Highlighting ‘Spiritual Resistance,’ Bi-Cultural Students Present Passionate Yom HaShoah Program A family sits down to a Passover seder of kindness and compassion, who kept in the Warsaw Ghetto. Two young women honor and education alive, who survived to fast on Yom Kippur in Auschwitz. A make- begin new lives and tell their stories. “You shift orchestra presents a symphonic con- will not be forgotten,” said each student as cert in the Lodz Ghetto. A clandestine he or she lit a candle. school. An underground library. A secret As they filed out, visitors were notably Shabbat service. A hidden diary. moved by the compelling program—and Spiritual resistance—the many coura- “blown away,” as BCDS supporter Lorraine geous acts of unarmed defiance by Jews Kweskin put it, by the fact that the pro- intent on maintaining their dignity, their gram was student-driven in its entirety and culture, their humanity and their spir- by the insight the children showed in their it in the face of the Nazis’ relentless at- choice of theme. tempts to degrade and destroy them— “That [the students] could get beyond was the theme of the annual Bi-Cultural the atrocity and look at the spiritual as- Day School Yom HaShoah commemora- pects is truly amazing,” said Kweskin. tion, held at the Stamford school, Monday Esta Feinsod, an alumni parent and a morning, April 24. member of the school’s Board of Incorpo- The powerful, often poignant, hour- rators agreed. long program had many in the audience “The maturity of the seventh graders is riveted. It was hard to believe that the pro- committed to never forgetting; to standing audience stood for a respectful moment so impressive. The fact that they were able gram—from its conception to its execu- up and being the change; to helping ensure of silence. to approach such a horrific subject with tion—was handcrafted by of a group of that something as horrific as the Holocaust In one film, Roman Kent, survivor of a such poise and incite and spirituality is re- young people just beginning to enter their never happens again, anywhere.” Nazi work camp, movingly explained the ally fantastic.” teens. Standing on stage before a backdrop importance of spiritual resistance. The parent of one BCDS alum and three “What’s beautiful about this commem- depicting the now-infamous entrance to “I heard so many times that the Jews current students—including one seventh oration is that it is 100 percent student cre- Auschwitz, as well as other concentra- didn’t do anything,” said Kent. “Not true. Re- grader—Risa Raich, was impressed with ated, directed and performed,” Bi-Cultur- tion camps, with the German words “Arbe- sistance doesn’t have to be with a gun. Re- the program’s attention to detail, and its al’s Head of School Jackie Herman told an it Macht Frei”—“Work sets you free”—set sistance was a mother giving her piece of cross-disciplinary approach in that it in- audience that included students in grades into the front gate, each student stepped bread to her child so he could survive. Peo- cluded elements of art, writing, dance and four,five and six, as well as faculty, staff, forward to explain to the audience in his ple who were teaching the children in the music. She also praised the school’s ad- parents and school supporters (the school’s or her own words the focus of the program ghetto was a resistance. In the Lodz ghetto ministration for NOT taking charge of the eighth grade class watched the program by they were about to experience. As one stu- we had an orchestra playing. Why? Because program. satellite from Israel, where they are current- dent put it: “Today, we want to express our it gave the people the will to live another “It took courage for the administration ly on a month-long, school-sponsored trip). pride in the many acts of heroism that were day and another day and another day. So to allow students to drive this program and Although it is traditional at BCDS for not violent or physical, but were spiritual.” there are many other forms of resistance, assert their creativity and independence. It the seventh grade class to present the annu- To do that, the students put together a of spiritual resistance. would have been so much easier for teach- al Yom HaShoah commemoration, Herman program composed of original skits, songs Before ending the program with the ers and administrators to hand students a said, “This class of seventh-graders took this and dance performances; as well as two singing of Hatikvah, the students lit six can- script and just have them stand on stage opportunity to embrace this awful time in short films, a prayer and the sounding of a dles, each one in memory of those who in- and say what they were instructed to say. our history and make a beautiful, moving siren, similar to the siren sounded in Israel spired them: those who risked their lives to Instead, they empowered students to cre- and meaningful commemoration. They are on Yom HaShoah, during which time the protect others, who performed small acts ate their own learning environment.”

WTA Celebrates ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 1

tion the students were joined by a marching band that included two trumpets, two saxophones and a percussionist. A trum- pet call raised the Israeli flag in the presence of all the students. With children being dressed in blue and white to celebrate the holiday, there was a deep sense of unity when the parade ended with outdoor dancing and singing followed by the singing of the Hatikva. Each child was placed in a group that repre- That extended to individual classroom sented an Israeli city. activities as well, where the youngest stu- As Rabbi Rami Strosberg said, “Yom dents took a “tiyul,” a trip, to Israel. With Ha’atzmaut has always been my favorite passports and a teudat zehut (Israel’s iden- day of the school year because we are a na- tity document) in hand, they had a realis- tion that is obsessed with its homeland, tic experience with related activities, food and the programming and activities of the and music. Older classes took a trip to the day allow us to share our love and passion, park where they got a taste of Israel with our history, language and our culture with sports, music and a picnic lunch of falafel. our students all day long.”

30 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 30 31 SCHOOLS RYNJ Hears Powerful Story WDS Seventh Graders Visit From Survivor Bernard Krutz the Mazon Hunger Exhibit

On Friday, April 28, Westchester Day School seventh grade students visited the “Mazon: This Is Hunger“ community engagement program. This digital interactive museum exhibit, on national tour, was in Mamaroneck for just a few days and WDS seventh graders were lucky to have had the opportunity to visit the exhibit. This brilliantly designed program is built into the back of 53 foot trucks and includes nu- Bernard Krutz, grandfather of RYNJ merous digital interactive stories and vis- eighth grader Dina Baron, shared his amaz- uals to help the participant understand ing story of being a hidden child for the the severity of the problem of hunger in school’s eighth grade students. His mem- this country. Students were challenged to orable details of life during the Holocaust prepare a healthy meal, representing five were recounted as a story of hope and sur- different food groups for under $1.40. Stu- vival. RYNJ was very grateful to him for dents walked away understanding the spending some time with the students. problems of hunger in this country, appre- ciating their own good fortune and con- templating how they can help be part of a solution for a better future for the 44 mil- Carmel Academy’s Eighth lion Americans who suffer from hunger in this country. This will be a program the Grade Engineering students never forget. was a very impressive and important Aviva Lehman said, “I was shocked to learning experience. The unique design, Students Debate Ethics learn that people receiving food stamps compelling presentation and shocking in- have to make meals with only a $1.40 formation about the problem of hunger in Behind Bioengineering budget per meal. That is so hard to do and this country make this event one that will I find that so sad.” be unforgettable in the minds of the stu- By Julie Lapin Rabbi Stephen Knapp, WDS assistant dents. A very important and empowering principal of the middle school said, “This experience.” Not everything is black and white. That’s exactly what Carmel Academy’s eighth grade engineering students learned during a recent unit surrounding the eth- WTA’s Upcoming Color ical issues associated with bioengineering. The students, who are taking a yearlong Run Fundraiser Will Be course designed to introduce them to the major fields of engineering, debated two Held on New Campus hot-button issues: whether genetically mod- Carmel Academy eighth grade engineering ified foods are safe and require clearer labe- students Leah Brill and Seth Bier discuss Westchester Torah Academy will be being sprayed with natural paint along ling; and whether the scientific advances as- the ethical concerns surrounding scientific hosting its first ever Color Run on June the way. Other simultaneous and fun ac- sociated with genetically modified animals advances associated with genetically 11 at 10 a.m. This will be a fun-filled event tivities are to be held as well. and cloning outweigh the ethical issues. modified animals and cloning. that culminates the school year with To date, many families and even local “The topics are both very timely, as (CREDIT: CARMEL ACADEMY) family and friends and brings the entire businesses have also been supportive of well as controversial. There are answers on WTA community together in support of the cause in Riverdale and Westchester. both sides and we wanted to give the stu- sible for some part of the debate presenta- WTA’s promise for accessible Jewish ed- The new campus on 150 Stratton Road in dents the opportunity to research and ex- tion, whether it was opening or closing ar- ucation. With a goal of raising $70,000, New Rochelle will house the event, and plore those issues so they could form and guments, answering questions or posing Color Run is an event that will involve since WTA has a good relationship with defend their own opinions,” said Carmel arguments. The teams were given several families and friends in support of WTA’s adjacent school Iona Preparatory, they are Academy Middle School General Studies questions to help guide their preparations, mission. offering their property for parking so the Teacher Darren Bahar, who co-teaches the but they also were encouraged to dig deep- Families at WTA will be creating their entire WTA grounds will be available for class with Carmel Academy Middle School er, Maldonado said. Each team was given a own fundraising pages to seek sponsor- the activities. Mathematics Teacher Jeff Maldonado. mystery question, so they really had to be- ships from family, friends, coworkers and Many families have jumped on board come experts on the topics. neighbors. At the event, the students and to help grow WTA’s footprint and share The bioengineering unit, which also in- friends will get together on WTA’s new their love of the school. Students have cluded a lab in which the students built a campus for a fun-filled, paint-filled run been getting excited for the event and medical prosthetic device, is just one of the outdoors. Participants run through activ- learning of this fun way to do chesed by numerous engineering fields the class has ity stations and complete tasks all while raising money for the school they love. delved into this year including mechanical, materials, aerospace and computer engineering. Hands-on labs and experiments, visiting engineering experts and experiential field Bi-Cultural Social Studies trips have helped give the students real-life Carmel Academy eighth grade engineering engineering applications, Bahar said. Teacher Will Attend student Mimi Chapman presents an Carmel Academy’s engineering students argument during a student debate were not alone in their exploration of the Yad Vashem Program surrounding the ethics of bioengineering ethics behind bioengineering and the re- advances. lated field of biotechnology. The school’s The International School for Holo- “After spending last spring in Isra- eighth-grade honors biology students also caust Studies at Yad Vashem has accepted el with Bi-Cultural’s eighth grade class, I “The students were not only required to tackled the topic as part of their cells and ge- Erin Hupal, a middle-school social stud- had the opportunity to tour Yad Vashem, research and prepare their own debate ar- netics unit. They learned about research on ies teacher at Bi-Cultural Day School in and I knew it was a great learning envi- guments, but also had to research and un- the frontiers of science, including the tech- Stamford, into its Seminar for Educators ronment,” said Hupal. “This seminar will derstand the other side of the debate. So niques of CRISPR, a new genetic-engineer- in Jewish Day Schools to be held in Jeru- give me the chance to have a real hands- they were truly able to formulate a full pic- ing technique that will radically change the salem in July. The intensive 12-day pro- on experience to bring back to my stu- ture of the issues surrounding these scien- way diseases are treated. The students dis- gram focuses on empowering teachers dents; to make it more personal for the tific advances,” Maldonado said. cussed the ethical issues surrounding this to create individual Shoah (Holocaust) next generation who most likely will The debate teams comprised two teams technology and created surveys to ascertain study programs tailored to their respec- not have the opportunity to learn from of four, and each team member was respon- and analyze the opinions of others. tive schools. survivors.” 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 31 31 32 CAMPS SPORTS

Hall of Fame ing, this time as a coach at Yeshiva Univer- Mishkan Israel Day Camp ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 1 sity, where he remained for 45 years. Like Sarachek, Tauber was instrumental in de- Is Ready for Summer 2017 By Eli Rifkind veloping the athletics program at Yeshi- va. People remember Tauber as a great role Mishkan Israel Day Camp has been This week, Yeshiva University induct- model for everyone he coached and taught the talk of the town since it first opened ed its inaugural class to the university’s at YU. Tauber’s son accepted his induction, its doors in Stamford in 1975. brand new Hall of Fame. The event, which and many of his family members were “This camp is simply fantastic!” took place on Monday night in YU’s Belfer present to help celebrate this honor. “What is your magic!?” Hall, featured some of the best athletes and The third coach inducted in the 2017 “You simply cannot find a program coaches in Yeshiva history. class was Henry Wittenberg, who had an that provides such exceptional sports According to YU, The Yeshiva Universi- illustrious wrestling career as both a play- & swimming instruction, activities and ty Athletics Hall of Fame was established to er and coach. Having not wrestled grow- fun, combined with a culturally respect- recognize and honor men and women who ing up, Wittenberg was first introduced to ed, Jewish tradition that is in the ‘here have distinguished themselves and the uni- the sport at City College of New York. Wit- and now’ for us!” versity in the field of intercollegiate ath- tenberg quickly rose up the ranks until he “The activities are beautifully taught letics at Yeshiva University. Hall of Fame reached the 1948 Olympics where he won by experts, but this program is more and members include individuals who have the gold medal. He returned to the Olym- much richer than any enrichment pro- demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, pics four years later and won silver, be- gram you will ever find.” personal integrity and high standards of coming the first American wrestler to win “A wholesome, caring, professional character, and have supported the Macca- two Olympic medals. He then came to Ye- program bar-none!” bees while displaying the ideals and philos- shiva University, where he coached wres- “Can you guys make a year-round pro- ophy of Yeshiva University. tling for ten years. The induction was ac- gram?” including instructional swimming, arts & cepted by Wittenberg’s two sons, who “My kids don’t want camp to end!” crafts, drama, culture and sports & recre- spoke about their father’s commitment to These quotes are all from satisfied cus- ation, as well as daily lunch and snacks— his players at the university and his will tomers, the parents of Mishkan Israel Day all included in the low weekly fee. for each player to give it their all. Witten- Camp’s campers. Mishkan has been licensed by the berg, who was also inducted into the Na- Mishkan Israel Day Camp, the only State of CT—Youth Camping Division and tional Wrestling Hall of Fame, is remem- camp that has been serving Fairfield is proud to have an A1+ rating. Mishkan bered as one of the best wrestlers of his County since 1975, is located conven- provides transportation through its own time as well as a great mentor for the iently in a state-of-the-art, fully air-con- fleet of modern, safe and reliable buses, many players he coached. Today, there is a ditioned facility, right in Stamford. Mish- with certified, licensed professional driv- yeshiva high school wrestling league tour- kan has earned an “excellent” rating ers. Bus routes are configured to specif- nament named in his memory. by RatingZ, a prominent independent ic neighborhood locales to allow for the After the coaches, several basketball camp rating group. With fun, education- shortest total travel time for each child. and one tennis player were inducted. Bas- al, professional and wholesome activities A number of registration slots are still ketball stars Marvin Hershkowitz and Abe geared toward the individualOur child, 8t� Mish- available.Seaso�! Please call 203-268-0740, visit Sodden were unable to attend the induc- kan offers a campEVERY experience PLAYER like no oth- CANwww.mishkanisrael.com BE AN MVP! or e-mail mish- tion ceremony, but both sent videos thank- er. The camp provides a full-day program, [email protected] for more information. ing Yeshiva University for the honor. They were the first two players in YU history to score over 1,000 career points. Their introduction was highlighted by comments about their menschlichkeit off the court, in addition to their basketball prowess. Sever- al days earlier, Sodden had been presented with his award at his home. Our 9t� Seaso�! Herb Schlussel played at Yeshiva Univer- WHERE EVERY PLAYER CAN BE AN MVP! sity from 1953 to 1957, and during his career had one of the highest winning percent- ages in Yeshiva history. He was a fantastic Abe Sodden at his home after being shooter, but also known to be a very unself- All ball. All the time. presented with his award a few days earlier ish player. His son Richie, who introduced MVP GIRLS him, spoke about some of his father’s MVP BOYS One of the most notable inductees in achievements on the court, including how Sunday 8/20 - Thursday 8/24 Sunday 8/27 - Wednesday 8/30 the group was Bernard “Red” Sarachek, Schlussel turned down a scholarship offer For girls entering 6th – 11th grade the legendary men’s basketball coach who to Syracuse to play at YU. In his acceptance For boys entering 4th – 12th grade Daily Davening led the team in its early days. Sarachek speech, Schlussel talked about his close Special Senior Division Program (11th & 12th graders) COST: $625 coached during a time when Yeshiva Uni- friendships with his teammates and Coach 3 Minyanim Daily Sibling discount $25 per family versity had no home gym, and instead had Sarachek as well as his busy schedule, hav- COST: $725 GROUP DISCOUNT to play in local gyms and high schools. ing to balance both Judaic and secular stud- (6 campers must sign up together at the same time) Sibling discount $25 per family $599 per camper in group While he made his greatest impact within ies and his basketball schedule. GROUP DISCOUNT the university, Sarachek also had a strong Schlussel’s teammate, Irwin Blumenre- (6 campers must sign up together at the same time) effect on the greater basketball world. He ich, was also inducted. Blumenreich broke $699 per camper in group New for 2017 - MVP Girls Tennis is known for his innovations in the game the single season scoring record, scoring 513 More info: [email protected] Same dates, Same location, of basketball, which is why Coach Lou points in the ‘54-’55 season, and went on to Same grades, Same cost. Carnesecca of St. John’s, who Sarachek play for the Harlem Globetrotters. He was More info: [email protected] mentored for years, labeled Yeshiva as“the introduced by his wife and, having passed birthplace of modern basketball” under away in 2009, Blumenreich’s son Scott ac- • Seneca Center Dome his coaching. Sarachek, who passed away cepted the induction on his father’s behalf. • Outdoor Lit Tennis Courts in 2005, had his induction accepted by Though Sheldon Rokach did not have Clinics, Fundamentals, Drills, Skills Competitions his grandson, who spoke of his grandfa- as deep a roster as his fellow inductees League Games, 3 on 3, 2 on 2, 1 on 1, MVP Challenges ther’s devotion to the game, Yeshiva Uni- who played together in the 50s, he still • Individual and Team Growth versity and, especially, his players. Today, managed to put together some very im- • Experienced Staff + Guest Instructors Sarachek has a Yeshiva high school tourna- pressive numbers, amassing over 1,000 • Hot Tub / Jacuzzi ment named after him, and people recog- points and rebounds. He was introduced • Indoor and Outdoor Pools nize him for his tremendous influence on by the YU Assistant Athletic Director, Josh • Seneca Giant Water Slide the game of basketball. Pransky, who spoke about his impact on • Indoor & Outdoor Lit Basketball Courts DIRECTORS: Coach Arthur Tauber served as the fenc- the university. His son Barry, who accept- • Glatt Kosher Meals + Nightly BBQs Judah Rhine: 516-707-2638 ing coach at Yeshiva University as well as ed the honor on his late father’s behalf, • Seneca Sprinkles Ice Cream Parlor Irv Bader: 718-261-CAMP its athletic director. After excelling in fenc- talked about his father’s influence and de- • Air Conditioned Shul and Dining Room ing on the collegiate level at NYU, Tauber’s votion to his family. • Transportation is Included fencing career was cut short by his service Every camper receives an MVP reversible jersey in the U.S. Army. He later returned to fenc- ÂÂ CONTINUED ON P. 35 32 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 32 33 REAL ESTATE Before Buying a Home, Learn the Lingo!

(StatePoint) Buying a home for cant role when securing a mort- from your payment once you reach 20 the first time? You may discover gage, as it helps lenders determine percent equity in your home. that one of the biggest obstacles the likelihood that you’ll repay fu- Hear a term not included or confused is learning the lingo. Homebuying ture debts. The higher your score, by some of the processes? Check out Fred- can be overwhelming and perhaps the more options that may be avail- die Mac’s myhome.freddiemac.com for a bit intimidating if you aren’t fa- able to you, including lower inter- everything homebuying and be sure to fol- miliar with the terminology. est rates. low the Freddie Mac’s Spring Homebuying To help aspiring homeowners • Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI). Season Blog Series at freddiemac.com/blog. gain confidence in the homebuy- If you make a down payment of “Homebuying speak can seem like an ing process, the experts at Freddie less than 20 percent on your con- entirely new language, especially for first- Mac are sharing a guide with some ventional loan, your lender will re- time homebuyers. Before entering the mar- top terms you’ll hear. quire PMI. PMI serves as an add- ket, it’s helpful to learn key phrases and ter- • Pre-approval letter. A letter from ed insurance policy protecting the minology so you can be a confident, savvy your lender telling you how (CREDIT: WWW.LINKEDIN.COM) lender if you’re unable to pay your shopper,” says Mike Dawson, Vice Presi- much home you can afford and mortgage, and it can be cancelled dent of Single-Family at Freddie Mac. the maximum amount you are qualified closing, escrow can also refer to an ac- to borrow. Having a pre-approval letter count held by the lender or servicer into while shopping can help you move fast- which a homeowner pays taxes and in- er, and with greater confidence in com- surance. MORTGAGES petitive markets. • Mortgage rate. The interest rate you pay • Appraisal. After you make an offer on to borrow money for your house. The Purchase Loans. Refinance Loans. ...And Everything In Between a home, your lender will order an ap- lower, the better. • Our Local Processors praisal to get a professional opinion on • Fixed-rate mortgages. A mortgage with Shmuel Shayowitz its value. This is a necessary step in get- an interest rate that doesn’t change dur- • Our Local Underwriters President - Mortgage Banking ting financing secured, as it validates the ing the term of the loan, and is typically • Our Local Appraisers Direct Lender NMLS # 19871 worth to you and your lender. 15 or 30 years. • Our Common-Sense Decisions • Closing costs. In addition to a home’s • APR. The annual percentage rate, com- • Our Lowest Wholesale Rates (201) 833-0123 price, a buyer must pay “closing costs.” monly referred to as “APR,” is a broad- • Our Quick Approval and Closings [email protected] This is the cost to complete the real es- er measure of your cost for borrow- tate transaction. This includes points, ing money and includes the interest taxes, title insurance, financing costs, rate, points, broker fees and other cred- Your Local Mortgage Bank! items that must be prepaid or escrowed it charges you’ll be required to pay. Be- and other costs. Closing costs are gen- cause these costs are rolled in, the APR (800) 475-0123 www.approvedfunding.com erally two to five percent of your home is usually higher than your interest rate. LICENSED MORTGAGE BANKER NMLS#5411 • NY/NJ/CT/PA/FL/TX/IL FHA/VA DIRECT LENDER purchase price. • Credit Score. A number ranging from • Escrow. The holding of money or doc- 350 to 800 based on an analysis of your uments by a neutral third party before credit files. Your score plays a signifi- THOUSANDS OF CLIENTS. BILLION$ IN FUNDING. THREE DECADES OF SERVICE

74 Cameron Road, Bergenfield 420 Vomel Drive, New Milford 1077 Bromley Road, Teaneck

22 Frederick Place, Bergenfield 1118 Cambridge Road, Teaneck 1421 Hudson Road, Teaneck

vera-nechama.com All New Listings! 201.692.3700

718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 33 33 34 REAL ESTATE

Without accurate information about credit found a property with another brokerage Ask the Broker history, income, assets, debts, employment, asks me my opinion of a house that the criminal history and anything else that the buyer is thinking of purchasing. Not only By Vivian J. Oleen landlord or co-op board needs to know, you the house, mind you, but could I also rec- cannot be matched to the co-op or rental ommend a good attorney, home inspector building for which you qualify. I take great and lending institution? I decline because Sound Off! pains to explain to customers that noth- I am not in business to help my competi- ing is hidden anymore and all will be dis- tors make deals, unless we are working on In my 25 years as an associate broker, I ty without obligation to the broker should covered by the co-op board and the land- a deal together. Moreover, if I give informa- have been the business beneficiary of buy- the seller find a buyer without involvement lord. Why waste time and money on the tion about a house (even if I know that it ers, tenants and sellers who have experi- of the broker. (In an exclusive-right-to-sell path to certain rejection? Tell your agent has serious faults), I could be accused of tor- enced what they perceive to be less than listing, the seller owes commission wheth- everything and either you will be matched tious interference in another agent’s sale. I satisfactory treatment by their former real er or not the broker participated in the sale.) to the correct situation or told up front that don’t feel good about withholding infor- estate agents. I have come to realize that Some sellers prefer not to sign a contract you cannot qualify. mation of this sort, but in truth it is up to the fault often lies with both parties. On the but to have a verbal listing instead. Moreo- Not only are buyers and tenants at fault the buyer to hire competent experts. So I side of customers and clients, some prob- ver, some written contracts state that if the here. In past years, I had experiences with explain this to the buyer and ask why he/ lems have resulted from misunderstand- deal does not close due to the seller’s action two incompetent agents who pitched their she has not asked the agent with whom he/ ings and ignorance of the constraints im- then the brokerage is due the commission; “highly qualified” co-op buyers to me. The she is working. The answer is often that the posed upon agents by federal and state if the buyer defaults and the seller keeps agents either lied or were too lazy or in- buyer does not trust the agent, either be- laws. But two of the constants on both sides the down payment, then the brokerage is competent to ask the right questions, and cause the agent represents the seller and/or are often a lack of trust and a failure to com- entitled to a percentage. But if this sounds although I asked for complete informa- because the agent is suspected of receiving municate. What follows are some common greedy, the broker is entitled to a commis- tion it was not forthcoming. Thus, one buy- a kickback or other consideration from the situations but by no means an exhaustive sion if the broker has in all good faith pro- er was rejected by the loan bank because people he or she recommends. list. After all, we are dealing with people and duced a ready, willing and able buyer and her monthly expenses were too high and Sellers have complained to me that they and we provide limitless opportunities there was a meeting of the minds on the the other was rejected by the seller when they were “pressured” by agents into listing for all sorts of experiences. deal. Brokers do usually wait for the clos- we discovered that the buyers had failed their properties for prices with which they Let’s consider the sellers of co-ops and of ing to be paid. In addition, the brokerage to disclose a $400,000 mortgage on their did not agree. Be aware that it is your prop- real property. Many sellers refer to the list- has presumably worked hard to find a buy- two-family house and they could not afford erty, not the agent’s, so you are free to re- ing contracts that they as brokerage clients er and has spent money on advertising. And, the co-op plus the mortgage. quest that the agent try your price, at least are instructed to sign. Sellers complain that if the seller insists on too many changes in Another of my pet peeves is the agent at the outset. But don’t be so foolish as to they were handed a contract and were told the listing contract then the brokerage may who tells me (and customers and clients) discount the agent’s expertise and the com- to sign it but had no idea that contract pro- refuse to take the listing. that he/she is a “licensed agent” or fails, at parable sales that he/she presents to you. visions are negotiable. (My response: Don’t Agents also have complaints. Recent- the first contact with me (as required by If you suspect that the agent is lowballing sign a contract without first showing it to ly, a salesperson told me that she had gone law), to identify himself or herself as a licen- the asking price, or urging you to accept a your attorney!) Sellers often discover after to great pains to set up a series of appoint- see. In New York State, there are three kinds price that you think is less than you can get it is too late that the commission written ments at a time requested by a prospec- of licensed agent: broker, associate broker so that he or she can produce a quick sale, into the contract is negotiable! Sellers have tive tenant. The tenant then requested a and salesperson. Usually, the person who then confront the agent and ask for his or also told me that they resent that they must time change so the salesperson obliging- says that he/she is an agent is trying to hide her rationale. Remember that the agent give the listing brokerage a six-month exclu- ly called all of the people with whom she the fact that he or she is a salesperson, not a works for you and in New York State is sive right to sell. They protest that they do had appointments and changed the times. broker or associate broker. Note: There is no supposed to put your interests before his/ not want to list for six months and they do Of course, the prospective tenant called shame in being a salesperson! her own. But always remember that if your not want to list their properties with only again and said that she realized how dif- Also, please note that Realtor is not a syn- asking price is unrealistically high then the one brokerage. Yet, it was never explained ficult it was for the salesperson to change onym for a real estate agent. “Realtor” is a agent may not want to accept your listing to them that they could object to the six the times so she would keep the original federally trademarked name for licensed because he or she will be wasting time and months and try to negotiate a lesser term time frame—so the poor salesperson had to agents who choose to belong to the National ad dollars on a losing proposition—this and that the agent representing the broker- change the appointments yet again! Association of Realtors. Again, it is no reflec- serves neither of you well. age should have told them that in New York One common agent complaint is about tion on an agent if he or she is not a Realtor. Another common complaint by sellers State they may have their choice of open, people who make appointments and don’t Buyers often do not realize that agents is that the previous brokerage did not bring exclusive, co-exclusive and exclusive right show up, or call to cancel or to postpone are in business to earn a living. Thus, the anyone to see the property. Instead of fir- to sell listings. Some people prefer open list- the appointment. public often regards us as sources of free ing the brokerage, did the seller ask why no ings that can be given to one or more bro- A serious fault on the part of prospec- information, making demands on our one came? Sometimes situations exist over kerages, or exclusive or co-exclusive listings tive buyers and tenants is failure to disclose time and expertise. Normally, I don’t mind in which the seller is free to sell his proper- relevant financial and credit information. this, with one exception: A buyer who has ÂÂ CONTINUES ON NEXT PAGE

MAKE THE RIGHT MOVE- Ready to get out of the cold? Ready to get out of the cold? call CALL MALKA VANESSA PORTNOY VANESSAyour South Florida PORTNOY real estate specialist P.A. YourVanessa South Florida Portnoy, Real Estate P.A.Specialist 201.739.9654 Real Estate Professional [email protected] EWM Realty954.297.6537 International / CHRISTIE'S Malka Abrahams [email protected]: 954.297.6537 REALTOR® • NJAR Circle of Excellence 2015 & 2016 • Servicing Bergen County Email: [email protected] Specializing in: Top Producer Bal Harbour • Sunny Isles • Surfside Chairman's Club • Aventura •Miami Beach 201.992.3600 • LinksNJ.com Over 25 years of excellent 201-343-6100 service in mortgage lending 568 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, NJ 07666 Jberg.fmm.com | [email protected] • Great Rates • Fast Preapprovals Licensed Residential Mortgage Lender, New Jersey Department of Banking & Insurance. Licensed Mortgage Banker, NYS Department of Financial Services. NMLS ID # 2212 • Superior Customer Service • Hassle Free Closings JASON BERG NMLS##220661

34 May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM 34 35 REAL ESTATE Spring Into Home Fire Safety

(BPT) As spring fever takes hold, it is type of smoke alarm doesn’t require bat- agent at a low velocity to ef- important to seize the opportunity to do tery replacement and takes the guesswork fectively extinguish com- more than cleaning around your home. out of determining the age of an alarm. mon kitchen oil fires with- The spring season marks the perfect time The alarm will simply start chirping when out splashing the oil. to evaluate your home’s fire safety quo- it’s time to replace it. For the rest of your tient and make necessary updates to en- Equip your home and especially your home, the NFPA recom- sure you are prepared! kitchen with a fire extinguisher: Cooking mends an extinguisher in Follow these three fire safety tips: has been the leading cause of home fires your garage, and at least one Maintain your smoke alarms: Just like since 1990, notes the National Fire Pro- on every level of your home. your other appliances, smoke alarms need tection Association (NFPA). Always stay in Create a fire escape plan: proper maintenance! Keeping your alarms the kitchen when using the stovetop, and Your ability to safely escape in proper working order helps to make when using the oven, check foods regu- a home fire depends not sure they work in case of a fire. Spring is larly. In the event of a kitchen fire, it’s im- only on advance warning the perfect time to test smoke alarms and portant to have a fire extinguisher within from smoke alarms, but also check the expiration date. Always replace reach. The Kidde RESSP kitchen fire ex- advance planning. During a dead batteries and expired alarms (most tinguisher is the only specialty fire extin- fire, you have little time to alarms are designed to last for 10 years). guisher certified by UL (a leading global get out of your home. Cre- If you’re looking to simplify the smoke safety science organization) to meet their ate a fire escape plan with alarm maintenance process, consider in- 711A standard - designed and tested to safe- input from everyone in your household. escape routes are clear and doors and win- stalling alarms with 10-year sealed batter- ly and effectively put out residential cook- Walk through your home and inspect pos- dows can be opened easily. For two-story ies such as the Kidde Worry-Free combo ing fires. The extinguisher’s unique noz- sible exits and escape routes. As you walk or greater homes, don’t forget an escape smoke and carbon monoxide alarm. This zle delivers a high volume of fire-fighting through your plan, check to make sure the ladder.

Sound Off! urements, and I tell them that their lend- lenging events. All agents have their own tion to the buyer to bring his checkbook ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 34 ing institution’s appraiser will provide war stories to tell. For example, at one of to the closing. The buyer did so, but when them with a figure.) my co-op closings, the transfer agent asked it came time to write checks for the first which the agent has no control: the local Another problem is presented by tenants the seller where was his wife, the co-own- month’s maintenance etc., it was discov- economy has tanked, the property is over- or buyers who have non-negotiable require- er, or her power of attorney? “Oh,” respond- ered that no checks were in the checkbook. priced (at the seller’s insistence!), the prop- ments but who will not agree to trade-offs if ed the husband. “She died about 10 years “But,” he said to his attorney, “you told me erty is in an undesirable location, the prop- their requirements cannot be met because ago. I didn’t know I had to tell anyone. I just to bring my checkbook. You never said any- erty is in poor condition, the property taxes they don’t exist and/or are not within their signed the contract with both our names. thing about bringing checks.” are too high etc. budget. Then they complain that the agent Does she really have to be here? I’m the As Art Linklater used to say, people are A new brokerage opens in the area could not find what they want! only one living in the apartment.” (The clos- funny! and is staffed by agents from who knows One of my all-time favorites is the buying was adjourned for a few hours so that where. A few years ago, a nationally fran- er who will not give me even a ballpark es- the necessary documents could be provid- Vivian J. Oleen is an associate broker with Sopher chised brokerage opened in Riverdale and timate of his or her budget. Of course, it’s ed.) Even better was an attorney’s instruc- Realty. a competitor agent called to ask me if fine to have one figure for a move-in condi- there is a Y in Riverdale! Don’t you just love tion property vs. another figure for a proper- agents who assure buyers and sellers that ty that needs work. But please don’t tell me, FEATURED HOME they know the area and can sell the prod- “I don’t really know what my budget is. You ucts but who don’t have even the most ba- know what I’m looking for. Just show me sic information? Related to this is the agent everything!” My response is, “Please get me who wants to appear to have all of the an- a lender pre-approval letter that states the swers. One of my favorite cautionary tales limits of your budget!” is of the Manhattan agent who was asked Please don’t ask an agent to discuss an by the co-op buyers for the apartment’s area’s racial, religious and ethnic compo- square footage. Wanting to appear knowl- sition or to discuss the desirability of one edgeable, he threw out a guesstimate. Af- public school over another. Don’t ask us ter the closing, the couple called the car- about crime in the area. We’re not allowed pet people to measure the apartment. to discuss these items but there are other Yes, there was a significant discrepancy— sources: the local police precinct, visits to the couple sued, and guess who lost—the local schools etc. agent! (I don’t discuss square footage—I Finally, I must say that brokerage often give the buyers the official building floor involves dealing with people in stressful enlarged in 2009. Five bedrooms, 3.5 ele- plan, I invite them to take their own meas- situations and this often gives rise to chal- Van Cortlandt Crest, Yonkers at the gant bathrooms, beautiful modern kitchen, spacious and sunny great room with Riverdale, N.Y.C. border dining area, den with pellet stove, recre- Hall of Fame he mentioned how she passed up a chance ation room or office with separate en- ÁÁ CONTINUED FROM P. 32 to play at Maryland and Miami to attend ASKING PRICE REDUCED! $1,125,000 trance, large garage plus driveway. Central Stern College. 5 Bedrooms / 3.5 Bathrooms air conditioning. Located in the upscale The final men’s basketball inductee was Throughout the event there was a Sopher Realty Yonkers Van Cortlandt Crest communi- Yossy Gev, who is the all-time leading scor- warm feeling of nostalgia, as the inductees, (718) 601-4000 ext. 127 ty, convenient to Riverdale’s amenities, er for Yeshiva University, with 1,871 points. their families and the attendees were able A very special home, just steps from including transportation, shopping, SAR He was introduced by Athletic Director to hear about the recipients’ time at the Riverdale! Winner of the 2009 Yonkers Academy, and shuls. Shown only by ap- Joe Bednarsh, who spoke about how even university and the impact they had on oth- Greenie Award for Renovation. This ener- pointment. Vivian Oleen, Associate Bro- though Gev was fierce on the court, he was ers. The inductees also felt a sense of pride gy-efficient solar home is in move-in con- ker, Sopher Realty, 718-601-4000 ext. 127 or also a great guy off of it. to have played at Yeshiva University and dition and was completely renovated and [email protected]. The two women who were inducted represent the Jewish people. Many of the were star tennis sensation Heidi Nathan athletes, especially the ones who played Baker and basketball star Daniela Epstein. together during the 50s, noted the close re- Baker, who went undefeated in women’s lationships they still maintained with their singles and only lost one match in doubles, fellow teammates and coaches. was introduced by her sister-in-law, and The event culminated with the opening in her acceptance speech spoke about her of the Hall of Fame Wall, right outside the love for playing and teaching tennis and basketball gym in the Max Stern Athlet- how much it meant to her to have played ic Center. The night was very special for infor the Maccabees. ductees, families and attendees alike, and Epstein, the final inductee, is the only YU hopes the wall group will grow as they women’s basketball player to score 1,000 induct more athletes into the Hall of Fame career points. In her father’s introduction, in the future. 718-564-6710 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBWC.COM May 11, 2017 • 15 Iyar, 5777 35 35 36

Riverdale's Family-Owned Brokerage Since 1966 Established 1966 • Morris and Marilyn Sopher

Den Great room Part of kitchen

At the Windsors Co-op. THREE BEDROOM CO-OP FOR SALE--SPONSOR Exclusively listed with Sopher Realty. This is a home for Sunny South-facing one bedroom APARTMENT--NO CO-OP BOARD APPROVAL those who need lots of space and who crave huge rooms! apartment with large terrace, windowed kitchen, REQUIRED! Spacious three bedroom corner apartment Seven very large bedrooms, modern kitchen, den, three full dining foyer, and bathroom. Doorman building has two bathrooms, huge living room, big dining area, bathrooms, and two half-bathrooms. Large living room with pool and health club, convenient to kitchen, and ample closet space. Pet-friendly, centrally with woodburning fireplace. Front and second-door porches. transportation. Monthly maintenance located doorman building West of Henry Hudson Parkway. Double lot with vegetable garden! Located just over the includes gas, electricity, and central Gas & electricity included in maint. Walk to many area Riverdale, N.Y.C. border in upscale Van Cortlandt air conditioning. $220,000. amenities. Parking right available for purchase. $490,000 Crest, Yonkers. $929,000.

From Sopher's Commercial Division. From Sopher's Commercial Division. 5652 Mosholu Avenue, Riverdale, Bronx, N.Y. 5235 Broadway, Bronx, N.Y. Formerly a Rite-Aid Pharmacy. 13,800 SF; Retail property, formerly Scott Cleaners. 2500 SF; can be subdivided. $45/SF/yr. High traffic area, near transportation. $30/SF/yr.; modified gross lease. Contact Jonathan Sopher, 718-549-9000. On busy mixed-use block near Riverdale Avenue. Contact Jonathan Sopher, 718-549-9000.

SPONSOR APARTMENTS No muss, no fuss, no co-op board approval required—just purchase and move in! RENTALS All sizes, all price ranges: In apartment buildings, condos, private homes, multi-family houses. Availability changes daily so call us with your requirements.

Licensed Real Estate Brokers: Marilyn Sopher, Barbara Sopher, Jonathan Sopher, Lisa Sopher. Call Vivian Oleen, Associate Broker: Vivian J. Oleen. Salespersons: Ana G. Pena, Adam Rudes, Vivian Xidiaris Associate Broker, 6132 Riverdale Avenue at 261st Street, Riverdale, NY 10471 MARILYN SOPHER, at 718-601-4000x127 REALTOR E-mail us at [email protected] 36