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הברכה את ה’ צוה כאן צוה ה’ את הברכה

CROWN HEIGHTS CROWN 1 ~December 14, 2007 2007 14, ~December 2 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 The Vaad Hakohol

By: Moshe Rubashkin Sefer Torah. Please make sure to participate by writing a letter for yourself and Chanukah: Why Eight days? Today is Zos every member of your family. This will Chanukah, bring tremendous brocha for the entire the eighth day community and for all Lubavitch. of Chanukah. (Part I) In addition, Baruch Hashem, Chanukah is time By Rabbi Shlomo Segal it’s referred to of great activity and giving for the the Member of the Crown by the special CHJCC/Vaad HaKohol. For the third Heights Bais Din name, “Zos Cha- year in a row, we have run Chanukah nukah” (This is activities for children. Two years ago Moshe Rubashkin It’s known the question of the Rishonim Chanukah). It is we took four busloads of children and why was the Yom Tov of Chanuka set the day the whole Chanukah Menorah is parents to the Chanukah Dreidel House up for eight days? The miracle of the illuminated, and it is the summation of in Manhattan. Afterwards, we went out Photo Credit: CrownHeights.info menorah was only for seven days because the whole Yom Tov of Chanukah. to Jerusalem Pizza. The night concluded on the first day there was enough oil for with a visit to the spectacular Public the Menorah. On one occasion (Miketz 5713), the Menorah Lighting at 57th St. Each child Rebbe said that Zos Chanukah is an received $20 Chanukah gelt. Last year, The Bais Yosef (Orach Chaim chapt. auspicious time for blessings for children. we ran a beautiful Chanukah Party in 670) states three answers: 1) originally Zos Chanukah is also connected with Beis Rifka HighS chool that was attended they divided the oil into eight parts the thirteen attributes of Rachamim by over 300 children. Shimson Stock (we and every evening they placed one part (mercy) which are higher that the level all miss him!) came personally to give out in the Menorah, and it burnt until the of the world. Chanukah gelt to the children. This year morning. 2) After they poured the oil we continued the tradition at Beis Rivka into the menorah, the next morning it The menorah with its candles symbolizes High School with Shimshon in mind. still remained full. 3) The first night the all the Neshamas as they are all united Over 300 children plus their parents poured all the oil, and it burnt a whole Rabbi Shlomo Segal in one Menorah, demonstrating Achdus were treated to live music, pizza, drinks, night. In the morning they found the Yisroel. donuts and latkes, a juggler, and many solution.” candles were full which means that only arts and crafts activities including face one eighth of the oil was used every painting and sand dreidels. Of course, Now we understand why we can not night. each child received Chanukah gelt to answer that the whole oil was poured in take home. We added a special trip after the first day and on the second day they Regarding the first answer, we can ask: the party for girls. We rented out the used the remaining oil which is part of Why was there a need to answer they Prospect Park Ice Skating Rink for our the miracle. It is because the remaining originally divided the oil into eight own exclusive use. Girls enjoyed hours oil is considered like ash; therefore the parts, which is contrary to the halacha of skating while listening to our own Bais Yosef needed to answer that they in the Talmud (Psachaim 59. Yoma 76, music over the speakers. A blast was had originally divided the oil into eight Zvochim 11. Menochos 89) derived from by all. The CHJCC and the community parts. the verse (Shemos 27:21) מערב ועד בוקר would like to thank Phyllis Mintz for (from evening until morning) that the lighting up the lives of all these kids and Based on this answer there are questions candles should be prepared in a manner their parents. Hashem should bless her from the commentaries: of giving the appropriate measurement for long, healthy years and nachas from I would like to thank Shimon and Ami – that it should be burn all night from her children and grandchildren for her 1) A whole measurement should be Leani for spearheading the Achdus Sefer evening until morning. If so, how were dedication and hard work shedding light poured into the candles in order it should Torah. Besides getting a generous donor they were able to divide the oil when it on the lives of Crown Heights’ families be burn a whole night, and therefore, from Eretz Yisroel (who wishes to remain was not a full measure? and the Crown Heights community. we cannot accept the answer that they anonymous at this time), they are giving divided the oil into eight parts. their time and special effort to encourage Indeed, in the sefer Moadim B’halacha Nightlife threw an amazing Chanukah people in shul to participate. This is a by Horav Zevin, it is cited from Reb party on Wednesday, the second night of 2) We don’t rely on a miracle - how did particularly special initiative because Chaim Brisker that on the first day they Chanukah. The room was decorated and they rely on pouring in only an eighth the people are actually writing the Sefer emptied all the oil of the pint, and during laid out with a total Chanukah theme. of the oil? Torah, not the Sofer. This is L’Chatchila every night only one eighth of the oil was The food was first class and in great abun- Ariber in Ariber. This is the real way to consumed [this is also the answer that dance—lamb, chicken, sides dishes and In the Ram on the Smag, he answers Mosif Ohr. We see individuals who really the Pri Chodosh writes in Orach Chaim salads, and of course, Chanukah favorites “Pour into for a full night measurement” care and feel for the Rebbe’s shechuna chapt. 670]. And with this answer, the latkes and doughnuts. The party got off to is not an obligation but a Mitzva. When and for Lubavitch as a whole, bringing above-mentioned question of giving a a lively start with a fun and high-energy they realized that they will not be able everyone together to write a letter in the full measure every night is removed, hypnosis show. The featured event of to fulfill the Mitzva for eight days in an but the question still remains: why does the evening was a Chanukah musical auspicious way, they divided the oil into the Bais Yosef not accept this answer initiated by 10 talented young women eight parts in order to be able to fulfill but instead chooses to answer that they Newspaper directed by Rivky Ferris determined to the Mitzva of kindling of the Menorah in Community divided the oil into eight parts? use their creative talents to bring out the the most appropriate manner given the 290 Kingston Avenue, message of Chanukah. It was done very circumstances. Although they couldn’t Brooklyn, NY 11225 We could answer this based on the words 718 771 9000 professionally with top-of-the-line acting fulfill the hidur of the Mitzvah that it of the Gemoro Menachos (88b), “Reb Published & edited weekly by the Vaad Hakohol and costumes. “The Hidden Heroines”, should burn from evening until morning, Yochonon said in the name of Rebbe of Crown Heights. portrayed how the events of Chanukah they would still fulfill the Mitzvah. that a candle that went out, the oil and Moshe Rubashkin, Chairman were influenced by the women of the the wick are considered like ash. What Dr. Tzvi (Harvey) Lang, Vice Chairman time, Chana and Yehudis. It was a To be continued. Rabbi Plotkin, Secretary does one to do (to correct it)? Add oil captivating performance, bringing tears All material in this paper has been copyrighted. It is the and relight it.” exculive property of this newspaper, unless otherwise to the eyes of many of the girls. This attributed., and cannot be reproduced without the consent performance infused meaning into the From this we understand that oil that Email or fax your your of the publisher. evening, creating a nice balance with the has burnt for one night can not be used Composition responsibility: This newspaper will not be fun and social aspects of the party. As the for another night because it has become comments or letters liable for errors appearing in advertising, beyond the cost night progressed, word continued to get of the space occupied by the error. Advertiser assumes like ash. Rashi (ibid) beginning with around, and girls just keep streaming in, to: responsibility for errors in telephone orders. All adver- the word “Ndashen” states,”In the same tisement designed and prepared by the CHCommunity around 150 in all. Participants stayed late sense that the wick that was extinguished Newspaper are the property of the newspaper and cannot into the night to dance and sing (and eat [email protected] be reproduced without the consent of the publisher has no solution, the remaining oil in the some more). candle is considered like ash and has no Fax: 718-778-0272 Continued on Page 12 December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 3

We are interested in Letters your opinions:

Shimon Herz Director of Shalom Cen- NYC Cultural Department to add funds happenings here. Tell us what you think ter responds to Our Aging Population to our budget which will allow us to visit (Nov. 30) the various cultural centers throughout I’m writing to tell you of an event you of the paper or just what NYC. missed. It was the annual Fast and then you think. We appreciate your comments and they Dinner of the Lubavitch Chevra Kadisha are noted. Firstly we wish you and your We did have computer classes for several on the 15th of Kislev. husband many happy and healthy years years and a number of seniors were Write up family stories in your golden years. advanced enough to purchase their own Traditionally, this dinner gives honor and computers for home use. Unfortunately recognition to a highly important group of your grand-parents Boruch Hashem we are fortunate that the computers became obsolete and due of men and women who prepare the dead in the heart of Crown Heights we have to lack of funding we have not been able for burial. Traditionally, this preparation and let us publish them a senior center that just does offer many to purchase new ones. Hopefully in the is done without payment within a few of the things you have suggested. near future we will be able to revitalize hours or perhaps, a half day’s notice, for all to enjoy. these activities. scrupulously adhering to Halacha and The center which is fully funded by the Minhagim. There is a group of women Any legitimate topic is City of New York’s Department For The The seniors enjoy this venue, spending dedicated to sewing the tachrichim Aging (DFTA) is open to all seniors. several hours at the center doing activi- (shrouds), enabling the souls to stand accepted. ties and socializing with other. and pray before Hashem for those they We have a wonderful group of seniors left behind.W hay may make the average All secret closet writ- from all spectrums of the community. I would like to thank for taking time to person depressed, talking about death, They meet daily from 9:00am – 5:00pm. write to us with your interest and con- doesn’t apply here. The optimistic feeling ers or budding writers, Besides the wonderful breakfasts and cerns. We are happy to inform you that is they are simply preparing the dead for lunches which are under the strict the Senior Center is fully functional and Techiyas HaMesim (Resurrection). May sharpen your pens and supervision of the Crown Heights Beis many of our precious seniors in Crown it speedily come. Din there are daily exercise classes, Heights are spending a meaningful day send us your articles. health promotion, bi weekly chumash or together with others. Mrs. Brocha Levertov, member T’nach classes and medical care lectures Add pictures too. ••••• Men’s Division as well as nutrition classes. Mr. Eli Eber Update on the Missing Person announce- Rabbi Shalom B. Lipsker Make this your paper, Each Thursday there is an enjoyable ment (Nov. 30): musical concert where Yiddish, Hebrew Women’s Division see your words pub- and Russian music is skillfully blended Shomrim has advised us that thanks Mrs. Ruth Neubort together. We end the week on Friday to the exposure this nespaper gave, Mrs. Ziril Berns lished. with an Oneg Shabbos and a dvar Torah the missing person was found last Mrs. Malka S. Kuperman from one of our students from Machon week. Thank you readers for making a Tachrichim Channa. difference! [email protected] Mrs. Teible Brod ••••• Weather permitting we have weekly trips ••••• Fax: 718 - 778 - 0272 to the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Dear Editor, Congratulations on the new newsletter Currently we are negotiating with the keeping us informed of the sparkling

Musings

By: Penina Metal our liaison with the Brooklyn DA’s office. I have held numerous posts in the com- We offer job counseling, entitlement pro- I had contacts with Henna from my munity and have developed numerous grams, computer training, HEAP assis- “You are just the receptionist! I want days working a crises hotline and going contacts which prove to be most effective tance, to name a few of our services. to talk to someone who can make a back to the Pogrom of 1991, after which, when I am called upon to offer referrals difference.” Henna invited me to participate in the for assistance other than what is within Each client is required to fill out a Victims for Victims training program, our jurisdiction at the Council. I have demographic questionnaire annually. The problem: the bus service between sponsored by the CHJCC. to think quickly on my feet as I man This information is entered into the data Crown Heights and Boro Park. I gave the phone, greet clients, access their base by me. It gives a snapshot of the the gentleman the right phone number Baruch Hashem, my young friend was needs and ferry them to the correct staff population that we serve. Government to call to voice his complaint. walked through the court system by members. funding is allocated on the basis of the Henna. She got her get and a new lease data this form, the MIS form, provides. It was nearly closing time, one evening, on life. I try to my utmost to offer, at the very shortly after I started to work at the least, a smile, a kind word, whatever it My most favorite part of my position Council. A young lady came in asking Yes, I am just the receptionist, but I feel takes, to make each encounter with the here is proof reading and writing various how to go about getting a get. Given the that I am a shlucha of the Rebbe. Council a pleasant one. articles, and composing correspondence information, I noticed that she wouldn’t for clients. I get a tremendous adrenalin leave my side. I looked into her eyes and I have been on both sides of the desk and Sometimes, oftentimes I would say, rush doing this. saw fear. I told her to wait a moment; believe me, I keep this in mind when I clients are impatient to get service. It falls I clocked out, took her to the back of greet each and every client who walks on me to humor them and to explain to All in all, I can say with humility that the office where she could speak to me into this office. them that each client is given the time he/ although I am just the receptionist, privately and asked her what was going she needs to discuss what their concerns I provide a valuable service and look on….Yes, as I suspected, she was being It does not matter what the religious are, to have the proper documentation forward with Hashem’s help to serving abused…her husband was threatening orientation or skin color of a visitor presented and processed. When their the residents of Crown Heights for many her mother too. is. We are duty-bound to serve each turn comes, they will be given the time years to come. and every client with courtesy and that they need. I went home and e-mailed Henna White, professionalism. 4 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 Chanukah

Mivtza Chanukah

Rabbi Michoel Seligson Chassidim all over the world began family lived isolated from Judaism and ❝ f u l fi l l i n g t h e even from association with Israel. They I stood there like In 5734 (late 1973), after the outbreak Rebbe’s directives classified themselves as atheists. “One hypnotized and couldn’t of the war in Israel on Yom Kippur, the with much zest day”, he recalled, “There was a sympo- move from my place. I saw Rebbe initiated and strongly encouraged and fervor. In the sium in the university about “Religion Mivtza Chanukah to insure that every course of the years, and State in the modern world”. As this as a teasing challenge Jew should have his own Chanukah the Mitzvah Tanks one who loves debates and even more to everything that I argued Menorah and light the Chanukah (which began in to voice my opinion, I was chosen to earlier in the university. Candles every evening of Chanukah. spring 1974) with serve as the opener of the program who blaring music, were argues against mixing religion and state. I don’t know why, but it The Rebbe issued special directives to rumbling over all Challenging me was a Christian student tickled me and gave me Tzach (Lubavitch Youth Organization) cities worldwide. who argued the opposite opinion. In my in Israel to visit all the military bases Public Menorahs words, I also included that I do not see the such a spiritual move that in Israel to supply the soldiers with were light up and I have no definition how to Menorahs enabling them to kindle their countless thousands explain it❞ own personal menorah every evening upon thousands of of Chanukah. The Rebbe applied this people participated much time traveling to the Congo in the directive also in these events. African continent. to the USA and to the Chassidus teaches For business reasons, he would also travel entire world- us that Aharon, to New York. While he was shopping in the -to illuminate the Kohen Godol, famous Macy’s store, he was approached t he whole when kindling the by a fifteen year old bochur, who asked world with seven candles in the him if he is Jewish. He responded in the Chanukah Menorah, would thereby elevate all the affirmative. candles. Although in 1974, the Rebbe Neshamas that are symbolized by the connection between a Jew in Morocco The bochur had already stopped distributing Cha- seven candles. These seven candles and a Jew in Los Angeles, and I, as a Jew, told him that nukah Gelt for about fourteen years signify the seven personal character do not feel an emotional connection for it is now in [since 5720 (1960)], but as an exception traits, emotions, with which we serve a Jew in another country.” the middle for this project, the Rebbe distributed and connect to Hashem. of Chanukah Chanukah Gelt, a one dollar bill, to By the end of the day, Jack found himself and offered every person that went on the Mivtza In the course of a short time, the public in a traffic jam in Paris, and when the him a Chanu- Chanukah campaign. TheR ebbe asked Menorah lightings were showing their traffic slightly moved, he saw thousands kah Menorah some people if they participated in results. of people standing and watching a big and candles. Mivtza Chanukah. screen with a large Menorah. On the He accepted I will share a few of the Chanukah screen, appeared Jews who were lighting it, not even In one episode, a Skverer Chossid came the Menorahs in Moscow, New York, in understand- to request a blessing from the Rebbe, and Jerusalem at the Western Wall, and in ing why he the Rebbe asked him if he participated Australia and more. “I stood there like didn’t reject it. in the Mivtza Chanukah campaign. The hypnotized and couldn’t move from my Chossid told the Rebbe that he didn’t. place. I saw this as a teasing challenge Standing across the candles in his hotel TheR ebbe responded: “It hurts me, but to everything that I argued earlier in room, the “walls“within him broke and I cannot give you a dollar.” The Chossid the university. I don’t know why, but it the hardness that covered him as a layer began crying that he needs a Brocho and tickled me and gave me such a spiritual yeshua and is asking for Chanukah Gelt. move that I have no definition how to ❝A whole night I couldn’t TheR ebbe continued, “A Brocho, I can explain it.” give you - there should be a fulfillment sleep. All the childhood of blessing for you without limitations, This story Jack retells from year to year memories seemed to wake but Chanukah Gelt I cannot give.” to all who ask him how and when he up and become alive. repented. The man continued persisting and beg- In the morning, I already ging, and the Rebbe continued: “I don’t 2. This story is about a Jew that is part of was in Shul and for the first understand you, if you believe in me, you one of the most distinguished families in need to trust me when I say it is (for me) time in forty years Europe. In his youth, he studied Torah impossible to give (Chanukah Gelt). put on Tefillin❞ and Mitzvos, as did all the members It is not a children’s game. You want a of his family. But his difficult divorce blessing and yeshua from me with your broke him completely, and he removed for so many years disappeared. For a hour conditions?! I will do it my way! And the yoke of Torah and Mitzvos from or more he concentrated on the flames it should be a happy Chanukah, and himself and involved himself completely and cried. From then, he returned to Hashem should fulfill all your wishes in in the Jewelry business. In the course of Torah and Mitzvos, and to date he is one this physical world in a practical sense. the years in Jewelry business, he spent of the distinguished people in the Jewish community in London. Menorah lightings experiences in different countries the world over that had a 3. This story relates to a Jew in Stras- very strong impact on Jews, igniting their bourg. The Yid was born in Europe Neshama within: and had left Judaism many years ago. He also had severed relations with his 1. This story took place in Paris, near family members who settled in Israel the Eifel tower. A Jewish student named after WWII. Jack Nussbaum wass studying in the French University. Jack told us that he Originally, his brother in Israel cor- knows he is Jewish but feels no additional responded with him in order to keep significance beyond this fact. He and his in constant touch with him and even December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 5

traveled several times to Strasbourg to potential to change his ways. I begged Again and again the young “groom” tried Brak and dedicated all his time to convince him to return to the original him that he should at least make some to disregard the screen and return to the learning and repentance. On the second roots of the family and of Judaism, but to kind of a stop in this wrong road that matter that he was discussing with the no avail. After many years, the brother in he chose. I told him, ‘Always remember bride but without success. He watched Israel passed away and the rift between that you are a Jew. Do the program until its conclusion and a the two families grew wider. not get lost from the sincere “storm” began rumbling within Jewish nation, and don’t him. Without thinking and without any One day, the family members in Israel, get married to a non- understanding, he got up in a moment, his nephews, received a letter from their Jewish girl.’ To my joy, left the girl’s house, and returned quickly uncle that he is planning to come to he promised me that to his home. After he returned home, Israel in three weeks, and he wishes to this would be a red line he was not able to remain with peace of meet the whole family. With shortness which he surely will not mind, so he took some of his things and of breath, they waited to greet their lost cross. Years passed and came to my house”. uncle. How shocked they were when they the meetings between met him in the airport with a yarmulke us became few and far In the morning, he notified the girl that on his head. between.” he is break- candle of Chanukah, precisely three ing up the years after he had seen the Menorah in In the house, while sitting around the One evening, the Cho- relation- Strasbourg which changed his life, he ssid received a phone ship, and he returned his soul to his creator, refined call from his friend inviting him to his then began and pure. ❝Always remember that wedding. A conversation began, and it returning to became clear to the Chossid that the Judaism.” you are a Jew. Do not get And finally a story in Los Angeles bride is not Jewish. She considered California: lost from the Jewish nation herself Jewish, because her father is Mivzta Jewish. After the shock and trauma, the Chanukah and don’t get married with A Chossid in LA tells the story that one Chossid tried in every way to convince, proved to be a non-Jewish girl. To my day while walking in the street, he met explain and restrain his friend from doing the Mivtza up with a childhood friend that he knew joy, he promised me that this and not to contaminate his soul and with which from the time that they lived in Wil- assimilate amongst the nations, G-d the Rebbe, this would be a ‘red light’ liamsburg, Brooklyn. The two learned forbid. Additional friends were mobilized like Aha- in the same yeshiva, but it seems that which he surely will for this effort. Eventually, the Chossid, ron Hakohen the Kohen Godol who afterwards the friend left the Torah path, not cross.❞ seeing he could not accomplish anything brought Jews back to Judaism, and one changed his name and clothing style, of the methods was by lighting up the and as other millionaires in a big city, table, they listened to his story: “It was Menorah and thereby the Nshama of invested his whole being into business. approximately two months ago, when the individual Jews, in the same sense, I was walking in the street on my way the initiation of Mivzta Chanukah The two exchanged phone numbers home from work. I suddenly saw a big distributing Chanukah Menorahs to crowd gathered in the center of the street. every Jews and reaching out to a greater I came closer and saw a big Chanukah ❝On the screen appeared crowd by lighting the public Menorahs, Menorah lit up and sound speakers are all the sparks of every Jew’s Nshama are playing Jewish songs. Then, instanta- the image of the ignited and as the Rebbe concluded on neously, I remembered my father lighting Lubavitcher Rebbe, while different occasions, that all this forms a the Chanukah Menorah candles, and I big flame which will burn the remnants recalled how with a special Chassidic addressing the Chanukah of the golus (exile) and draw down the sweetness, we would sing with him for Live via satellite in late redemption bkorov mamosh. a long time. Without knowing how or 1991. why, I found myself crying more than I One of the methods used by Aharon ever cried in my life.” Again and again the young Hakohen, the Kohen Godol, to bring Jews back to Judaism was lighting the “groom” tried to disregard with his friend, decided and notified his Menorah and thereby, the Neshama the screen and return to friend that he is disassociating himself of each individual Jew. In the same from him completely. sense, the Rebbe’s initiation of Mivzta the matter that he was Chanukah, distributing Chanukah discussing with the bride, The Chossid continues his story: Menorahs to every Jew and reaching but without success.❞ out to bigger crowds by lighting public “After a short time, it was a late hour; Menorahs, ignited the sparks of every the bell rang in my house. Behind the Jew’s Neshama. As the Rebbe concluded with the Chossid hoping to influence door stood none other than my friend, on different occasions, this forms a big his friend to return to his roots. “I met the groom. His face was fallen in, sealing flame which will burn the remnants of him many times since that meeting, the confusion he found himself in, and the golus (exile) and draw down the and I understood that I do not have the his mood very subdued. Preparations for redemption bkorov mamosh the wedding had been proceeding and a date had been set for the wedding. That evening he visited his bride’s house, and they sat in the living room, reviewing the list of the guests who will be invited to the wedding. The television positioned “I couldn’t sleep the whole night. All my in the corner of the room was on and childhood memories seemed to wake caught his attention. On the screen up and become alive. In the morning, I appeared the image of the Lubavitcher already was in Shul and for the first time Rebbe addressing the Chanukah Live via in forty years put on Tefillin. On that satellite in late 1991. The candle lighting, day, this resolution became my habit. I the Rebbe’s Sicha that followed, and also dissolved all my matters in Strasbourg, a clip of the Rebbe’s singing “Tzom’o and now I am here and want to live like Lecho Nafshi” (My soul is thirsty to you) a Jew.” at a Farbrengen were all included in the yearly Telethon made by Rabbi Cunin. For three years the uncle lived in Bnai 6 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 Chanukah

Chanukah 5738

Rabbi Michoel Seligson In the course of the following weeks and often. At least twice a week, and in some Y. Hecht was asked to enter the Rebbe’s months, it was obvious that the Rebbe’s months, three to four times weekly. room. The Rebbe told Rabbi Hecht the The Rebbe mentioned on different schedule and Farbrengens were not yet following: “I am looking for someone occasions, quoting the Previous Rebbe, back to the regular pace and continued After Shmini Atzeres, due to health energetic and a Baal Sod (someone that that when a significant historic event is that way for a long time period. reasons, the Rebbe didn’t travel to the can keep a secret), and I have found commemorated in later years, we need Ohel for two and a half months since the you. I want to make a Farbrengen (after to relive and experience this event in our Yud Tes Kislev (19th of Kislev) marked 13th of Tishrei. Mincha) and wash (for a meal) prior personal lives. the first Farbrengen that the Rebbe to the Farbrengen, and following the came into the shul and farbrenged with The 28th of Kislev marked the first time Farbrengen, I want to distribute Kos Shel Our Rebbe’im have written diaries in the Chassidim. Prior to Yud Tes Kislev, the that the Rebbe resumed traveling to the Brocho (wine of the Birchas Hamazon) course of the years in which they describe Rebbe would speak from his room via Ohel. When the Rebbe returned from the and also distribute small bottles (of the different customs and words heard hook-up. Ohel, the Rebbe davened Mincha in the mashke, for shluchim in town).” It was from the Rebbe in their time. big shul downstairs. Five candles were the Rebbe’s custom after a Yom Tov Far- As the Chanukah days began arriving, then light in the Chanukah Menorah. It brengen to distribute Kos Shel Brocho, ❝it also sheds light on some interesting developments began was the fifth lichtel. The song Haneros so this seemed to be a compensation happening by the Rebbe: Halolu was sung and when they reached for Simchas Torah that year when we the different customs the words (at the conclusion), “Al nisecho didn’t have the usual Farbrengen with that were reflected in the On the second day of Chanukah, the v’al nifleosecho v’al yeshuosecho”, the the Rebbe. Rebbe davened Mincha in the big shul Rebbe encouraged the singing. Rebbe’s conduct during (downstairs) and afterwards spoke a The Rebbe continued: “I don’t want it a certain Yom Tov or an Sicha noting that this day marks the In addition to this, the Rebbe began should be publicized, in order that it ordinary weekday. These complete redemption of the Alter Rebbe motioning with his holy hands in differ- should not disturb people from their ent directions, daily jobs--the Talmud says that the diaries supply us at the instructing reason the reading of the Torah portent present today with priceless people to begin on Monday and Thursday is less than dancing in front Shabbos is not to interfere with a person’s information about the of the shul and daily work. Rebbe’s customs❞ for a good time period stood Rabbi Hecht then asked: “May I tell Chassidim have also over the years and clapped his the Rebbe’s secretariat?” The Rebbe written Yumanim (diaries) or letters hands, encour- answered not to inform. of correspondence to their relatives or aging the sing- close friends in which they describe i n g a nd t he Rabbi Hecht then asked: “May I inform what they saw or heard by the Rebbe dancing. the Talmidim (yeshiva students)?” The on a significant auspicious day or on an Rebbe replied: “To inform the Talmidim ordinary day. In these days, of the Yeshiva is like telling as far as we heard that a Australia.” In later years, when we read the diaries when he finally arrived home after his Chossid (Rabbi Aron Klein, who helped or correspondence of the past years, it liberation on Yud Tes Kislev. Then the finance the buildings of the 770 shul Rabbi Hecht then asked: “May I inform contributes many positive things to us. Rebbe announced: “Since the theme of etc.) delivered a golden Menorah to the my son who is studying in the yeshiva, In addition to informing us about the Chanukah is to illuminate the candles at Rebbe’s house. TheR ebbetzin graciously in Morristown?” details of specific events, it also sheds the doorpost, we will therefore distribute explained that the Rebbe has a Menorah light on the different customs that were dollars at the doorpost of the Previous that he cherishes very much and has been The Rebbe replied: “You could tell him reflected in theR ebbe’s conduct during a Rebbe’s shul.” using it for many years, and he wishes to in the same format that you will inform certain Yom Tov or an ordinary weekday. continue lighting with that menorah. your institutions, just to tell them to be These diaries supply us in our present The Rebbe then proceeded to the exit here without disclosing details.” day with priceless information about the of the shul (facing Eastern parkway) On Motzoei Shabbos Chanukah, the Rebbe’s customs and talks on different and began distributing dollars to every 2nd day of Rosh Chodesh Teves, the “In general”, the Rebbe continued, occasions. individual. At one point, the secretaries Rebbe farbrenged for two- and-a-half “There will be tapes available from the wanted to stop the line not to burden hours in the shul. TheR ebbe spoke a lot Farbrengen, so there is no need to inform I will share with the readers part of a the Rebbe. The Rebbe commented, “I about increasing joy, and this will rinse everybody.” diary that I wrote as a bochur in 5738 don’t need watchman around me,” and off the last traces of the golus before the (late 1977). This year 5768 (2007) marks the Rebbe continued to distribute. Dr. revelation of an “everlasting joy over their thirty years since the Rebbe became ill by Resnick approached the Rebbe, and the heads”. The Rebbe instructed to make Hakofos on the night of Shmini Atzeres Rebbe told him that today it is without many Farbrengens and to include many and is also the thirty year anniversary limitations. people in these Farbrengens. of the Rebbe’s recovery and eventual return home after staying in his room When the men’s line ended, the Rebbe On the way home, the Rebbe met a for about 38 days. This is commemorated told the secretary to relay to the bochu- person standing and asked him, “Why exclusively on Rosh Chodesh Kislev. rim that now the women will receive aren’t you going to increase simcha with dollars, and the bochurim should leave other people?” the shul. On the Seventh day of Chanukah, the On the fourth day of Chanukah, Rabbi Rebbe participated in the Children’s TheR ebbe continued: “My father-in-law, Sholom Hecht entered the Rebbe’s Chanukah Rally in Shul. After the candle the Rebbe, once said that there are three room, and he wished the Rebbe that he lighting and conclusion of Mincha, the levels in a Baal Sod (someone that has should lead us out from golus. TheR ebbe Rebbe addressed the children with a a secret): 1) It is obvious that he has a responded, “I don’t care if it is through Sicha. secret, but he does not tell. 2) It is not me, as long as the golus will end.” obvious that he has a secret. 3) When Zos Chanukah (Eighth day of someone else finds out the secret and As Chassidim, we were always aware Chanukah) tells him, he will react like someone that that the Rebbe would travel to the Ohel is hearing this secret for the first time (the Previous Rebbe’s gravesite) quite At approximately noon, Rabbi Yaakov in his life”. The Rebbe concluded: “You December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 7

Chanukah 5738

❝My father-in-law, the Rebbe and told the Rebbe that the secret Rabbi Hecht is summoned to the Rebbe’s replied: “Nothing.” The Rebbe contin- was successfully kept. TheR ebbe in turn room. TheR ebbe handed him the Sicha ued: “Where does one get mashke for Rebbe, once said that there commented: “It should be with even that he addressed to the children at the free?” Rabbi Hecht replied that there is are three levels in a “Baal greater measure.” Chanukah rally. TheS icha was edited by a man that owns a liquor warehouse, and the Rebbe. TheR ebbe inquired the status he donated mashke for the Farbrengen. sod” (someone that has a After the conclusion of the Kos Shel Bro- of the English translation of this Sicha. Rabbi Hecht added that when this man secret): 1) It is obvious that cho, the Rebbe said that from Chanukah Rabbi Hecht replied that he already has learnt about the Rebbe’s health situation, he has a secret, but he does we receive the candle of Mitzva and the given the Sicha to Dr. Mindel to translate he was also ready to donate years for the light of Torah for the whole year, and the it into English. Rebbe. not tell. 2) It is not obvious Rebbe left the shul beginning the nigun that he has a secret. 3) Ki V’simcha. The Rebbe then said that he would like When the Rebbe heard this, the Rebbe’s to know how much was the expense of face became serious, and he said: “The When someone else finds On the Third of Teves, the Rebbe sum- the Farbrengen of Zos Chanukah (8th Aibershter (Hashem) has enough years out the secret and tells him, moned Rabbi Hecht to his room and day of Chanukah)? The Rebbe added for both of us.” he will react like someone inquired how he managed to keep the that if Rabbi Hecht will not cooperate in Farbrengen secret. Rabbi Hecht told disclosing and receiving the reimburse- The Rebbe then asked Rabbi Hecht: that is hearing this secret the Rebbe that he placed everything ment from the Rebbe for the Farbrengen “How much did the Challah cost? How for the first time in his car and kept it there until the (like the second in his life.❞ Farbrengen. Luchos (2nd set of the Torah will surely know what level of Baal Sod The Rebbe asked: “How did Reb Berl Tablets) which to choose. Junik know about the Farbrengen?” were given in a Rabbi Hecht replied that he felt that “low-key” way), The Rebbe instructed Rabbi Hecht to Rabbi Junik is the Rebbe’s personal it can occur deliver the Farbrengen supplies in an meshoras bakodesh (set the table for again and then inconspicuous way. Farbrengen), so he informed Rabbi Junik the Rebbe will about the Farbrengen. TheR ebbe nodded use someone The Rebbe offered to give Rabbi Hecht his head in agreement. else for the money, but Rabbi Hecht said that he project. had money. The Rebbe asked: “What did you tell the secretariat?” Rabbi Hecht answered, TheR ebbe con- When the clock reached 3:15, the Rebbe “My brother spilled the beans. When he tinued: “You made an officially notification that a came for the Farbrengen, he was asked didn’t hear the Farbrengen will take place afterM incha. why he came? He answered to catch a story which A short time after Mincha, the Rebbe place.” The Rebbe smiled. my father-in- entered the shul for the Farbrengen. law the Rebbe TheR ebbe opened the Farbrengen with The Rebbe explained that he didn’t ask told me?! When these words: all these questions at the distribution he told me the of Kos Shel Brocho because there was a story, I didn’t understand why he was much Challah was by the Farbrengen?” “Since the Chanukah days are days of big crowd assembled then, and he didn’t telling it to me. (How did he manage to get Challah in joy; therefore, we will wash, and the ones want to keep them waiting. The Rebbe the middle of the week?). Rabbi Hecht fulfilling this wish should be blessed also commented, “On the next occasion There was a Chossid, Reb Shmuel told the Rebbe that he went into the through Kos Shel Bracha (distributed do not bring two challos for Hamotzie. Gurary, who was a rich person. After bakery and asked them to empty out all wine from Benching) and draw the bless- Otherwise, people will think there is a Rosh Hashana of a certain year, the the Challah they had available (approxi- ing also for the ones who (for whatever need for two challos (lechem Mishna) for Rebbe RaShab called in Reb Shmuel and mately 60 lbs). TheR ebbe motioned with reason) did not wash for the meal.” The Hamotzie in the middle of the week. gave him a shlichus (mission) to accom- his hand as in wonder. Rabbi Hecht said Rebbe then washed his hands for the plish. Reb Shmuel felt uncomfortable; the Challah cost a total of $65. seuda and made Hamotzie. The Rebbe concluded that he wants to he was planning on returning home to reimburse Rabbi Hecht for his expenses his family, and he is not the appropriate TheR ebbe then said, “I have paid already The Rebbe then took a small piece of incurred in preparing the Farbrengen person for this mission etc. Eventually, he $20on Tuesday, and I will give now a challah for himself and announced: in order not to be as a borrower who is agreed and TheR ebbe RaShab told him total of $25. The Rebbe took $20 from “This (Challah) will be for the ones who considered as a slave to the loaner (see to go to Peterburg. Then theR ebbe gave one fund and gave it to Rabbi Hecht already washed for the meal and for the Mishley 22:7). TheR ebbe then gave him him 30 Rubles. Reb Shmuel commented, and an additional $5 from a second ones who yet plan to wash. The Rebbe twenty dollar, and Rabbi Hecht left the ‘I give the Rebbe hundreds of Rubles. fund and handed it to Rabbi Hecht. The then gave one and a half challas to the Rebbe’s room. Why does the Rebbe need to give me Rebbe then told Rabbi Hecht that he can people present. thirty rubles?’ participate by covering the balance of Friday, the sixth of Teves. twenty dollars. When many people attempted to receive The Rebbe RaShab replied: ‘When one the challah from the Rebbe at the same uses his own per- At the conclusion of this encounter, the time, the Rebbe commented: “It is not sonal money, his Rebbe said: “It was a bargain!” TheR ebbe necessary for all (to come) together at personal interests told Rabbi Hecht to accept the money. the same time”. In the course of the arise and interfere. Rabbi Hecht replied that it is with Kab- Farbrengen, the Rebbe spoke a Maamor But when one bolas Ol, and the Rebbe commented, (Chassidic discourse) and Sichos on the uses money of the “You need to have a desire to accept topic of Chanukah. public, personal it.” The Rebbe wished Rabbi Hecht a interests do not Freilichen Shabbos, and Rabbi Hecht At the conclusion of the Farbrengen, appear.’” left the Rebbe’s room. the Rebbe ate another kazayis of Challa before benching. The Farbrengen lasted The Rebbe asked an hour and twenty minutes. Rabbi Hecht: “How much did When the Rebbe was distributing Kos the Mashke cost?” Shel Brocho, Rabbi Hecht went by the Rabbi Hecht 8 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007

The Path to Inner Peace and Happiness

Part II

By Miriam Yerushalmi The Rebbe Maharash, the fourth obstacle) and immersing ourselves too are encouraged to view such events as a Lubavitcher Rebbe, said that when one deeply in the emotional aspect of the Nisayon – a test from Hashem to bring This knowledge and true faith that is faced with an obstacle, the world will problem (as is typical in many modern us to even a greater level of faith in G-d’s Hashem is in control of the events in typically suggest that you should first psychiatric/psychological therapies), we omnipotence. The word Nisayon comes our lives free us from negative thinking attempt to go around it, and if unsuc- must go over our heart, the seat of our from the word Nisa, which Midrash and provide us the access to Simcha. cessful, then try to go over it. TheR ebbe emotions, and go directly to our minds, renders Nisa in the sense of elevated, When we truly and sincerely accept that Maharash advises, however, LeChatchila productively solving the problem at hand. like a Nas, a flag, that flies high above everything is from Hashem, and that Ariber, that in the first instance go over (The simple truth is the most powerful: an army or ship. We learn that after Hashem is the ultimate source of all good Avraham passed each of the ten tests, and only good, there is no reason to think Hashem exalted Avraham. negatively about any event, even those that appear to us to be tragic, Rachman There is a beautiful story of the Baal Latzlan. Shem Tov, the firstR ebbe of Chassidus, when he was just a young man. He was Indeed, an event might appear tragic walking around to find the people of a or bad, but if we are able to tap into the certain agricultural town. He noticed larger picture of the event in its proper that the people were not outdoors in the context, we can actually gain strength fields working. I t seemed as if the town from these challenges. It is especially was deserted. This interested the Baal during these times that we can develop a Shem Tov very much. Soon he noticed deeper and stronger bond to Hashem and that everyone was gathered around the his Mitzvahs. It is akin to experiences town shul. As he got closer and made his that we have heard about. A mother try- way through to the shul, he began to hear ing to save her baby, who is stuck under a magid delivering his sermon. Appar- a car, lifts the car up with one hand and ently there had been a famine in the town with the other, she pulls her baby out. and the preacher took the opportunity to Under normal circumstances she would scold the community on their low level not be able to lift the car up with even of worship. When the Baal Shem Tov two hands. So where did she gain this heard this, he stood up and said, “Who strength? The crisis! It is through the gave you the right to say that these people crisis that we tap into deeper spiritual are being punished by Hashem. Their strength. But it can be more than just simple, but pure Avodah is so precious that. We just don’t always understand to Hashem. This famine may very well be why some event is happening to us. Just a test from Hashem to see that they still like when a baby is getting his diaper are going to have faith – Emunah -- in changed or even when he is getting Hashem and continue to serve him with his vaccination the baby is crying and Simcha.” He invited the people to step has no clue that these events, although outside and dance with true joy to show uncomfortable and even painful, are Hashem that their faith in Him and their ultimately for his benefit. Or let us think Simcha had not been diminished by the about when a child gets disciplined by drought. TheB al Shem Tov then began to his parents and he in the beginning dance with the townspeople. In time, the cannot fathom how not getting the dancing and pure, simple Simcha turned desired treat will train him toward the to tears of joy in the simple townsfolk path of righteousness. The same holds and these tears were soon followed by true for us. We are like those little the raindrops so desperately needed. children who cannot understand the With each additional dance and song of ways of Hashem. TheR ebbe gives us an praise and joy, the rain increased. The example of an uninformed stranger who famine had given way to the Simcha of enters an operating room who observes true faith. a helpless person on a table, surrounded by masked men brandishing knives and We can learn a lot from these stories. other instruments. The masked men cut To begin, we see how we need to re- and stab and draw blood, disregarding interpret life events. Sometimes, this the moans from the “victim”, who is re-interpretation might just allow us to drugged and is prevented from moving. see the “silver lining.” Secondly, we see The stranger’s natural reaction is to shout that the events in the spiritual realm for help. As far as he can see, a group of are dependent on our conduct. G-d sadists is torturing a helpless person. has created this world in such a way as If the stranger could only realize that to grant us a certain degree of power to the activity he observed was actually transform the events of our lives by the a surgical procedure essential to the way we think and act. When we think patient’s well-being, he would certainly of good, we create positive spiritual it. The Rebbe Maharash is instructing solve the problem by knowing your goal understand why the few hours of pain on influences that enable that vision to us that G-d has imbued each of us with and leaping over the obstacle in your the operating table was necessary and materialize. This is something that even the ability to leave the worldly limitations effort to achieve your goal. What you’ll that the procedure was a vital service. modern science is beginning to appreci- that so often impel us to seek compro- find is that the effort to reach your goal The concept of Divine service stresses ate, especially in medicine. When we mise with darkness and the challenges will often overwhelm the obstacle itself that there are no random occurrences tap into the Simcha that recognizes that of faith. We must have the faith that no and you will no longer find yourself stuck in the world. We just have to have the G-d is the source of everything in this matter what’s going on in our personal in the mud but rather flying forward.) Emunah, the faith, that Hashem wants world and that source is only good, there life or in the world around us, we have us to have even though we do not see is a joy that is activated in the spiritual the strength from the beginning to climb Our Sages explain that there are many Hashem’s Divine plan. realm, creating an overflow of joy in this over the obstacle. In other words, rather possible reasons why Hashem sends world.• than limiting ourselves (engaging the challenges our way. In most cases, we December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 9 Hey Teves

A New Yom Tov

5711) and that our mission is to prepare Taken with Permission from Rabbi says that there are four Rosh Hashonoh’s to this very day, Hei Teves — the day of the world for Moshiach and effectuate Moshe Bogomilsky from his book “Hei and they added a fifth!? our victory — was added to the roster of his speedy revelation. Teves, Didan Notzach, The Victory of Lubavitcher Yomim Tovim. Chassidim Rabbi Chaim Ozer, was not a chassid, the Seforim” declared it as “Yom Habahir” — “a bright Barry was unfortunately “blind” and did but a good friend and admirer. Being day” — in Chabad history, and celebrate not perceive this. He regarded Agudas As I started writing the introduction to not fond of that particular Rabbi because it as the “Chag HaChagim” — “the Chassidei Chabad as a non-functioning this book I reminded myself of a story of some very lenient rulings of his, he Festival of Festivals.” defunct organization, and thought that recorded in a diary of the Previous responded “by zei kumt tzu, un by unz with the demise of his grandfather Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok ” Sch- vert veiniger” — “by them things are Didan Notzach — What was Won? everything in Lubavitch had come to an זצ ל neersohn (Rayatz) (printed in Kuntres on the increase and by us they are on end. There was, G‑d forbid, no successor U’Maayan, p. 25). the decline.” (He meant that Torah Superficially, it is a day when Chabad- and no Rebbe anymore in Lubavitch. observance was on the increase by the Lubavitcher Chassidim have many Lubavitch was triumphant in a court The goal the Rebbe set out to achieve Chassidim and, unfortunately, the non- Yomim Tovim that they celebrate. The battle and got back a few hundred seforim was imaginary, and the time was ripe to Chassidim are experiencing a decline.) most popular is Yud Tes Kislev, the 19th which were surreptitiously removed from distribute the booty among the heirs. day of Kislev. It marks the liberation of Twenty years ago, on Tuesday Hei Tevet the library of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman 5747 (1987), Lubavitch declared a new Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn. To Chabad, This explains theR ebbe’s decisive rejec- of Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chas- Yom Tov. On this day, U.S. Federal Judge, these seforim are sentimental and their tion of any notion of compromise with sidus, from his imprisonment in Czarist the Hon. Charles P. Sifton, ruled that value is priceless. But, like anything else Barry Gourary. It would be necessary to Russia in 5559-1798. Chassidim viewed Barry S. Gurary, the grandson of the in life, they were not indispensable and win a complete and unequivocal verdict this incarceration as a heavenly decree Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe was not an could be replaced. in Lubavitch’s favor. against him for disseminating Chassidic heir to his grandfather’s 40,000+ volume teachings. His release was considered a library. Rather, it was the property of Moreover, some Chassidim sought to Fortunately, Heaven put it into the mind victory for Chassidus and a “green light” Agudas Chassidei Chabad. The Rebbe reach a financial settlement with Barry. of the non-Jewish judge Hon. Charles Sif- to continue the propagation of Toras publicly declared this day as the day This would have extinguished the con- ton to rule that even after the demise of HaChassidus with increased measure. of “Didan Notzach” — “our side won” flagration, but the Rebbe vehemently the Previous Rebbe, Lubavitch is vibrant. Little surprise that it became the major and “the Victory of the Seforim” (see rejected the idea. If so, why is this victory Hence, the profundity of the Didan Yom Tov of Lubavitcher Chassidim. In p. 123). celebrated with such jubilation and exul- Notzach is that, thank G‑d, our Rebbe 1902 Rabbi Sholom Dovber Schneerson tation? What makes it “Chag Hachagim” is the successor to the Previous Rebbe, The Rebbe compared the current legal (Rashab), the 5th Rebbe in the Chabad- — “the Festival of Festivals”? and the Rebbe is the true leader of the battle to the decree in Russia in 1798 Lubavitch dynasty wrote a letter to seventh generation. With his teachings against Chassidus and the endeavors of Chassidim and called it Rosh Hashonoh After careful analysis it is apparently and guidance we will bring to fruition the Maggid of Mezritch and the Alter leChassidus. clear what was Barry Gourary’s intention the mission of our times — the revelation Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. and the message he endeavored to convey of Moshiach — who will emancipate The letter was received in Vilna, and a Similarly, the current victory is a Didan to the Lubavitcher Chassidim. us from our exile and return us to Zion, Yud Tes Kislev farbrengen was widely Notzach for Chassidus. speedily in our days, Amen. publicized. A Chassid reported to the Immediately, Chassidim started pouring From the day the Rebbe ascended the Rashab, that one of the local Rabbis came in from all parts of the world. On almost throne of Lubavitch and accepted the For Lubavitcher Chassidim, and the to Rabbi Chaim Ozer ” Grodzensky, the each of the seven succeeding days the mantle of leadership he succinctly world at large this is the greatest victory ז ל Chief Rabbi of Vilna and mockingly said, Rebbe delivered a sichah, and for the proclaimed that we are the dor hashevi’i imaginable. Rabbi, did you hear what the Chassidim seven days on end there was awesome — the seventh generation — and the did? The Gemora R( osh Hashonoh 2a) jubilance and celebration. From then on beloved generation (see Basi L’Gani

Perspectives

By: Sarah Balkany pose. They enlighten and illuminate us. “Didon Notzach” total victory emerges – a highlight in our calendar of days. A They dispel darkness in the physical and from total immersion, total engage- day to mekasher, to connect to the Rebbe There is an extraordinary thrill when spiritual reality. Walk into a room full ment in the struggle. We battle with the in one of the Mivtzoim that is so crucial one experiences or witnesses salvations, of Seforim. As the little light that dispels confidence born of absolute trust that to the revelation of Moshiach–A house miracles, and wonders. When we see much darkness, Seforim shed divine light everything comes from the “Abishter for full of holy books. and/or experience that these wonders, and enable us to actualize our mission us to transcend. “Didon Notzach” our miracles and salvations continue, we are to be a light unto the nations. battle cry spurs us on to reveal greater To understand how Seforim can evoke lifted to another level of delight.B oruch determination, greater commitment, such unparalleled emotions, one has Hashem, the miracle of Chanukah lights Our Torah is our wisdom, our pride and greater vistas. to be a member of the people of the paved the way for the miracle of the in the eyes of the nations. When they book – the Jewish People. Jewish books return of the Seforim and with it the wanted to destroy us, they began burn- “Didon Notzach” is really the cry of our are compelling. They offer deep trea- celebration of “Hei Teves”. ing our sacred texts. They knew clearly, neshomas longing to be united with the sures and life lessons. They capture our something we sometimes forget – our sacredness, the holiness, not only of the imagination. They inspire us, reason In those days in our Torah. Our Seforim are our lifeline. No Seforim, but of the Nesiim who so self- with us, teach us and guide us, in a most“ ”בימים ההם בזמן הזה“ times” wonder the Rebbe considered the return lessly and painstakingly collected, cared non-threatening way. Books become our of the Seforim a campaign of Pidyon for and studied those seforim. friends. They comfort us, excite us and A phrase we repeated again and again Shevuim. He equated their situation engage us. Most important–with their in our thanksgiving prayers and in our with one taken into captivity. Their total Ask any youngster “What happened power of words, the very same tools that after meal blessings. We acknowledge return was, and is, a primary concern. on Hei Teves?” With a quick smile Hashem uses to continuously create the with gratefulness the victories over the and an expression of glee the response world, books recreate us! Greeks and Misyavnim and ultimately, “Didon Notzach”—“Victory is ours” is will be:”The Rebbe won the court case the miracle of light. On Hei Teves we more that a spirited song, enthusiastically regarding the seforim.” Does that child Let us cherish and study them. witnessed those victories extended and sung with great vitality and strength in understand the value of the Seforim, their continue. Then it was witnessed through anticipation of triumph. spiritual and historical significance? Of “Didon Notzach”! light; today through books. course not. What the child does under- “Didon Notzach” is a source of salvation stand is that if it’s so important to the Good Shabbos! Light and books share a common pur- at the very outset of impending danger. Rebbe, it’s important to me. “Hei Teves” 10 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 Our Heroes

Rabbi Eliyahu [Yachel] Simpson

Chozer by Rebbe Rashab sidus and doing Avoda with his heart Mashpia in the city of Odessa. In a letter Chefetz, HY”D and the Chossid Reb Secretary of Previous Rebbe (emotions). These traits became part of that the Rebbe RaShaB addressed to the Shmuel Levitin. his Neshama and remained with him Chassidim in Odessa in the year 1917, he By: Rabbi Michoel Seligson all his life. wrote the following: Prior to Reb Mordechai Chefetz’s trip Rabbi Eliyahu (Yachel) Simpson was to the U.S., the Previous Rebbe wrote to born to his father, Reb Shimon Aha- In the course of his studies in the Yeshi- “As you have requested many times from Chassidim in the U.S.: “Much blessing to ron, on Rosh Chodesh Tamuz 1889 in vas Tomchei Tmimim in the capital me to supply you with a Mashpia, to teach encourage and awaken Anash who desire the city of Bobroisk. In his childhood city “Lubavitch”, he merited to hear the and speak Chassidus, I am therefore to hear a good Chassidic word.” years, his father brought him to the city famous Hemshech (series) of Maamorim sending to you our talmid Rabbi Elya Lubavitch to learn in the Yeshiva “Tom- beginning with “B’shoa shehikdimu Simpson, who is well versed in speaking Indeed, Reb Mordechai Chefetz was chei Tmimim”. Initially, they delayed Naaseh Lnishma” (on Shvuos 5672 Chassidus and has also learnt much successful in his mission. The person his request, and the Previous Rebbe /1912). He would write the Maamorim [Chassidus], and my hope is that you that stood at his side and reported to the commented, “They are coming with immediately after they were said by the will gain satisfaction from him in every Rebbe the good news about the success their cribs” (referring that the bochurim Rebbe, and all his life he hoped that this respect. . .” was Reb Elya. He would brief the Rebbe arriving are young kids). But the bochur sequence of Maamorim would be pub- who lived then in Otwock, Poland. The Reb Elya insisted with great persistence, lished. He requested this from the Rebbe In 1921, the Previous Rebbe appointed Rebbe responded: “I have enjoyed the and after his uncle took responsibility on many occasions. At the Farbrengen Reb Elya to head the project “Kupas news about the good impression that Reb for him, he was accepted in the Yeshiva. of the 19th of Kislev (late 1976), a few Rabenu” which was founded at that time. Mordechai Chefetz made, and Hashem This was also after the Previous Rebbe days prior before Reb Elya’s petira, the From then on, Reb Elya was involved in should help it should bear good fruit.” brought this matter up with his father, Rebbe announced the publication of this this project all his life. the Rebbe RaShab. Hemshech of Maamorim. When Reb Mordechai Chefetz returned In 1923, when the decrees on religious life to Poland and briefed the Previous Rebbe In the Yeshiva, Reb Elya was among Reb Elya did not write a will, but before in Russia increased, Reb Elya received an on his mission, the Previous Rebbe wrote the elite students in Nigleh (revealed his petira he left a sealed envelope for the invitation from his relatives in the USA to a letter to Reb Elya: Rebbe, instruct- join them in the U.S. Reb Elya consulted ing his family the Previous Rebbe and received his “I was delighted to hear regards from not to open it. blessing. The wording of the blessing you and your family members and about When the Rebbe was that Reb Elya should go with the the positive awakening that took place o p e n e d t h e “intention of returning”. The Previous amongst the Tmimim and Anash. I envelope, it was Rebbe then interpreted that his intention hope that you as a senior amongst the verified thatR eb is “go for the intention of returning souls Temimim, will accomplish that this Elya included a back to their father in Heaven” (being awakening should translate into a good sum of money, as mekarev Jews to Judaism). deed.” his participation in the publishing When Reb Elya arrived in the United All those years Reb Elya tried with all his of the Hemshech States, he began working energetically energy and even more than his potential that lived with in “returning souls back to their father to support the family of the Previous him so many in Heaven”. Reb Elya stood on the front Rebbe. On one occasion, he received years. line of all Chabad matters in the SU , a letter from the Rebbe’s Secretary Reb keeping a constant correspondence with Rabbi Yecheskel Faigin who wrote: When the enve- the Previous Rebbe and his secretary, lope was handed Rabbi Elchonon Morosov HY”D, and “My dear, when I handed your letter to the Rebbe, after the PreviousR ebbe leftR ussia, with to the Rebbe with the sum of money the Rebbe gave Rabbi Yecheskel Faigin HY”D. you sent, there was a expression of the family the discomfort on the Rebbe‘s face. This is Rabbi Simpson is standing in the center behind the Rebbe three volumes of Any research, even a minimum glance, more than your potential and especially this Hemshech into the sefer “Toldos Chabad B’artzos now that your parnossa has lessened. In (5672/1912) and Habris” (Chabad background in the reality, although one should mobilize part of Torah) and Chassidus and was its index. The Rebbe added that this USA), will demonstrate that Reb Elya all his potential, it is inappropriate for a part of the chozrim group who would should be in the merit of the Neshama was active in every Chabad matter in person to go out of his own limitations, review the Rebbe RaShaB’s Maamorim and its offspring. the USA. These activities included the since everything in the world of Tikun and record them in writing. When Reb founding of the organization “Agudas is with an order and structure. It is not Elya was nifter, the Rebbe advised that Together with his intense studies in Hatmimim” (founded in his home, my intention that you regret what you on his Matzeva (tombstone) it should Chassidus and avoda with his personal in 1926), meetings of the “Agudas did, but Hashem should bless you with be mentioned that he was one of the top traits, Reb Elya also studied Nigleh, Chassidei Chabad”, efforts to free the bread from heaven in a spiritual and chozrim in Lubavitch. the Talmud and codified law and was Previous Rebbe from prison in 1927, physical sense.” ordained as a Rabbi by the chossid and especially the project of “Maamod” Reb Zalman Teibel recalled from his Rabbi Dovid Tzvi Chein and by Reb (monetary fund for the Rebbe’s family, In those years there was no Chassidic life childhood that during while a visit to Leib Sheinin from Dokshitz as well as for which Reb Elya was appointed by the in the U.S. But Reb Elya did not budge Lubavitch in 1906, he saw Reb Elya additional distinguished Rabbonim. Previous Rebbe. one ‘hair’ from the values with which he reviewing one of the Chassidic Dis- grew up in Lubavitch. In his activities in courses of the popular Hemshech (series In 1915, Reb Elya married his wife Fruma Another example of Reb Elya’s activities the different shuls where he served as a of Maamorim) 5666 (1906). At the time, Ita, the daughter of Reb Yeshoshua in the U.S. was the assistance of the Rabbi, he generated the atmosphere of Reb Elya was only 17 years old. Binyamin from Kublitz, who was from emissaries that the Previous Rebbe sent the Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim. the Chassidim of the Rebbe RaShaB. to the U.S. When the Previous Rebbe In addition, there are postcards that The Tenoim (engagement) took place in visited the U.S. in 1930, he was successful In the course of many years, Reb Elya the Previous Rebbe sent to Reb Elya the domain of the Rebbe RaShaB who in stirring an awakening amongst the served in many different shuls. The first requesting that Reb Elya relay to him the then spent time in Kublitz and in the Chassidei Chabad in the U.S. After his shul was in Harlem, N.Y. The year was Maamorim that were said by his father, presence of the Chossid Rabbi Dovid visit, the Previous Rebbe dispatched 1923. The Previous Rebbe wrote to the Rebbe RaShab, on a weekly basis. Tzvi Chein. three Chassidim to “collect gashmius Reb Elya: “I received your letter which and plant ruchnius” – the known Chossid notifies me that you took upon yourself Reb Elya studied in Lubavitch for fifteen After Reb Elya was married, he was Reb Hurwitz (“Itche the Masmid”) a rabbinic position in the shul ‘Tzemach years. This is where he was molded into appointed by the Rebbe RaShaB as the HY”D, the Chossid Reb Mordechai Tzedek Nusach HoArizal’. Hashem the image of a Chossid--studying Chas- should strengthen your heart, to conduct December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 11

yourself with ways of righteousness and non-Chassidim alike, amongst them sions for the Previous Rebbe in different to sit in a distinguished place, he chose to decency in the path of Torah and Mitz- famous Rabonim and Rebbes, would sell cities in the U.S. sit together with all the bochurim. Reb vos. And the blessing of Hashem should their chometz through Reb Elya. Elya would also attend the Chazora that be on all of them, that they all should be “The sun set, and the sun rose.” After the the Bochurim would make on their own blessed in all their matters.” Reb Elya’s residence was in the same histalkus of the Previous Rebbe, Reb on Sunday evening, and Reb Elya would building as his shul, and his Rebbetzin Elya was one of the first amongst the sit with humility and full attention. Some time later, Reb Elya moved to was known for her excellence in goodness Chassidic elders to commit himself to Brooklyn where he was appointed as the and generosity. Their home, which was a the Rebbe as a Chossid to his Rebbe. His bitul (nullification) to the Rebbe Rabbi of the shul “Anshei Lubavitch”, in meeting place for Torah scholars, turned was complete and all-encompassing. In 1928. The Previous Rebbe writes to the also into an inn for guests where many At the time of the histalkus of the Previ- 1971, when the Rebbe stopped eating the community: Jews found warmth. ous Rebbe, Reb Elya was in Florida in Yom Tov meals in the Previous Rebbe’s midst of a shlichus for the benefit of apartment on the second floor of 770, “On the occasion of selecting as a Rabbi, When the Previous Rebbe arrived in “Maamod” for the Previous Rebbe. He the Rashag (Reb Shmaryohu Gurary, our elite and distinguished talmid, the the U.S., he appointed Reb Elya as his returned to NY to participate in the the Rebbe’s brother-in-law) requested known Rabbi with refined personal secretary. Reb Elya was in charge of levaya only after he had been granted from Reb Elya that he ask the Rebbe to character traits, Reb Eliyohu, I hereby setting up appointments for people who permission from the Rebbe of our genera- continue attending the Yom Tov seudos bless the community with their gaboim requested a Yechidus (Private audience) tion to come. upstairs on the 2nd floor.R eb Elya agreed and managers of the shul, including their with the Previous Rebbe. In the course of to fulfill theR ashag’s request. After short families and everything that relates to the later years, when it became difficult to In the course of the following months time, the Rashag brought up this matter them in all matters, and Hashem should understand the Rebbe, Reb Elya would an unusual event took place: with the Rebbe and mentioned that strengthen their hearts and spirits to remain in the room during the Yechidus Reb Elya surely brought the message to strengthen all the Torah institutions that in order to explain or repeat the Rebbe’s One night, Reb Elya dreamed that the the Rebbe. The Rebbe then responded were inherited to us by the ancestors, words to the person. Previous Rebbe asked him, “Why are the that Reb Elya went into the room, but the Rebbeim.” Chassidim so sad?” Reb Elya answered, remained silent and with a deep silence- When Reb Elya discussed this matter, he “Because the Chassidim have no one to -Reb Elya kept his promise to come to Today Boro Park is known as a center testified about himself, that while being turn to.” The PreviousR ebbe continued, the Rebbe but did not have the boldness of religious, Chassidic life. But in those in the Rebbe’s room, he would never “My son-in-law is with you” and men- to suggest that the Rebbe to change his days the Jewish presence in this area was look at the Rebbe’s table, so as not to see tioned the Rebbe’s personal name. Reb mind. typically “American” and not so large in something that does not relate to him. Elya continued, “But he refuses to accept number. Specifically in that time, Reb The PreviousR ebbe once said about Reb the nesius (leadership)”. The Previous Perhaps the following words that we Elya founded an additional Chassidic Elya, “By him, everything is quiet.” Rebbe answered, “He has already been heard from a family friend could briefly shul for mehadrin, known under the commanded.” In the morning, Reb Elya describe his personality and his ways: title “Ahavas Achim Tzemach Tzedek”. Since Reb Elya was an extremely con- told his dream to the Rebbe, and the Originally, it began on 14th street. When fidential person, even people close to Rebbe responded, “I did not receive any “Reb Elya was, firstly, a trueR av from the the Previous Rebbe visited the U.S. in him did not know what was happening directive as of yet.” old generation. His fear was before his 1930, he stayed for a time in Reb Elya’s by the Rebbe. Only on a few occasions wisdom, and he was a wonder of Chas- home in Boro Park and also made a did he tell something about the Rebbe. Immediately, the elder and distinguished sidic conduct with fear of Hashem. He Farbrengen there. It is said about this One thing he revealed was a story where Chassidim organized a delegation to the was great in Chassidus and not in vain Farbrengen that although the building the Previous Rebbe was searching for a Tzion (Previous Rebbe’s gravesite), and was he amongst the top chozrim in his was too small for the big crowd, when sefer and could not find it; it was obvious Reb Elya read in the name of the whole young age, and his Maamorim writings the Rebbe spoke it was so silent that that the Rebbe was agonizing about it. were unique. But also the people outside the house were When Reb Elya entered the Previous beyond all this, able to hear. Rebbe’s room, the Rebbe told him: “My his main quality father was by me, and he told me where was that he was After time, the shul and Reb Elya’s the sefer is located.” “A true Chas- residence moved to its present location sidisher Yid”. He on 46th Street in Boro Park. This shul, Reb Elya saw his function by the Rebbe thought, spoke which became a Chassidic fortress, was as a great merit and refused to accept a and acted as known in later times as the first “Bais salary. appropriate for Rivka” school location, and this build- a Chassidisher In 1942, when the Previous Rebbe initi- ing serves until this day as a center for Yid. The Chas- ated the writing of the Sefer Torah to Chabad Chassidim in Boro Park and a sidic lifestyle greet Moshiach, he appointed Reb Elya center for spreading the wellsprings of was ‘baked’ to the board together with the Chossid Chabad through shiurim in Chassidus into his soul, Reb Shmuel Levitin and the Chossid and Farbrengens, etc. Rabbi Simpson is holding the Sefer Torah Shel Moshiach and only this Reb Dovid Shifrin, who conducted could explain this unique project. After thirty years On Yom Tov (Shavuos) when the “Taha- why even in the (5730/1970), when the Rebbe of our group of Chassidim the request that the lucha” would walk from Crown Heights United States of those years, far from generation announced the completing directive should come immediately. After to Boro Park and later gather together the Rebbe and far from Chassidus, he of the Sefer Torah, Reb Elya merited that, the Rebbe never mentioned that he to return to Crown Heights, the central was able to build such an exceptional to participate and be in the head of the did not receive a directive. meeting point was this shul where a Chassidic family.” organization that gathered the lists of kiddush was catered for all to take part people’s names from all over the world Reb Elya continued traveling for the in. It is also noteworthy to mention that “If you want me to describe Reb Elya in who participated in purchasing letters project “Maamod” in different cities in 1951, the Rebbe came to this shul to one sentence I would say: Reb Elya was in the Sefer Torah. When Reb Elya through his old age although he already be the ‘Sandek’ (holding the baby by a true Chossid, a ‘pnimi’ (inward), who entered the Rebbe’s room with these felt weak. the Bris) at Reb Elya’s grandson‘s bris, speaks little and does a lot.” lists of names, the Rebbe stood up from Reb Yosef Rosenfeld, one of the Rebbe’s When he still had energy, he would walk his chair. Reb Elya was nifter on the fifth lichtel Shluchim in Tzfas. many times on Shabbos and Yomim of Chanuka in 5737 (late 1976) and left Everyone present at the completion of Tovim from Boro Park to 770 to partici- a special blessed generation of sons and Reb Elya served as the Rabbi of this the Moshiach’s Sefer Torah on Friday pate in the Rebbe’s Farbrengens. When son-in-laws, grandchildren and great- shul for fifty years. It is told that the afternoon, the 9th ofS hvat 5730 (1970), it was too strenuous for him to walk, he grandchildren who serve as Rabonim, Gerer Rebbe, the “Bais Yisroel”, referred remember the scene as Reb Elya was would stay over Shabbos in a small room Shluchim, and Temimim who follow in young Gerer Chassidim to consult with carrying the Sefer Torah alongside of in 770, in order to not to miss the Far- his ways. Reb Elya in different matters. Reb Elya the Rebbe. brengen. Reb Elya did not satisfy himself was also known as the one that sets up with only participating in the Farbrengen May his Neshama be attached to the the transaction of the chometz with In addition to his function as the Previ- but attended also the Chazora whenR eb source of life. a “kablan” as instituted by the Alter ous Rebbe’s secretary, Reb Elya would Yoel Kahan would review the Farbrengen Rebbe, and many Jews, Chassidim and travel from time to time fulfilling mis- for hours. Although Reb Elya was offered 12 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 Parshas Vayigash

The sons of Yaakov therefore hastened to Alternatively, Pharaoh knew that Yosef Vedibarta Bam ~ Vayigash add that “he is ruler over all the land of was a stranger in the land of Egypt. Egypt” — “Egypt is not ruler over Yosef Usually, when someone is alone without — Yosef is ruler over the land of Egypt. his family, he is not in the best of spirits He did not permit the environment to and does not function to the best of his By: Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky him my whereabouts. You plead to me to influence him.” ability. Pharaoh figured that once Yosef have mercy; why didn’t you have mercy had found his family he would cheer (הרב דוד שי’ הולונדער) ”?on your father up and do even more for Egypt than previously. Therefore, to make Yosef והקל נשמע בית פרעה לאמר באו אחי ,The brothers were unable to answer feel comfortable, he let him invite his יוסף וייטב בעיני פרעה ובעיני עבדיו because they could not justify the grief brothers to move to Egypt, realizing that they had caused their father. in the long run the land of Egypt would “The news was heard in Pharaoh’s house, benefit from Yosef’s resulting improved מצאתי בכתבי אבי הרב שמואל פסח ז”ל ( saying, ‘Yosef’s brothers have come!’ And .disposition )באגאמילסקי it was pleasing in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants.” (45:16) ירא את העגלות אשר שלח יוסף...ותחי ו אני יוסף אחיכם אשר מכרתם אתי רוח יעקב אביהם QUESTION: Why were Pharaoh and his מצרימה servants so happy that Yosef’s brothers “He saw the wagons Yosef sent... and the had arrived? “I am Yosef your brother whom you sold spirit of Yaakov revived.” (45:27) to Egypt.” (45:4) ANSWER: After Pharaoh dreamed his QUESTION: What was it about the wag- strange dreams, the butler told him that ?ons that impressed Yaakov so much ויגש אליו יהודה QUESTION: The brothers were already in jail he had met a young Jewish boy saddened and brokenhearted. Why did who was also a slave. Rashi explains: The ANSWER: According to Da’at Zekeinim “And Yehudah came up to him.” Yosef add to their pain and mention the butler cautioned Pharaoh that though he Miba’alei Hatosafot, before Yaakov (44:18) sale? might find the boy to be a genius, in the parted with Yosef he was teaching him laws of Egypt it is written that one who is about the offerings the nesi’im — heads QUESTION: According to the Midrash ANSWER: Yosef did this without mal- a slave cannot become a king and is not of Tribes — would bring for the cha- Rabbah (93:6), Yehudah was ready to ice. On the contrary, he mentioned it in permitted to wear royal garb. nukat hamishkan — dedication of the go to war with Yosef, and he felt more order to comfort and relax them. Yosef Tabernacle. responsible than the other brothers understood that his brothers would have Pharaoh was so impressed with Yosef because “he guaranteed the safe return anxiety regarding him. In their minds, At the end of Parshat Naso there is a that he decided to violate the laws of of Binyamin.” Yehudah and his brothers there would be the fear that his Torah detailed description of the offerings of Egypt. Despite the protest of the people, were very strong, but greatly outnum- identity was weakened by the tempta- the 12 nesi’im. Each one brought an iden- he permi bered. Why did Yehudah want to wage tions of Egypt. He therefore said, “Be tical gift. The only exception involved the appointed him viceroy. war? assured that I am totally loyal to Torah wagons. Though each nasi was wealthy in and mitzvot; I am the very same Yosef When Pharaoh and his servants heard his own right, each shared the expense ANSWER: Yehudah told Yosef, “We are that I was before, and my adherence to that Yosef’s brothers arrived, they were of a wagon with a partner. Jews, and Binyamin is a young member Torah did not change since you sold me very happy, because it then became When Yaakov taught this subject to of our people. When even one Jew is in to Egypt.” known that Yosef was a member of a Yosef, he explained to him that this is danger spiritually, it is incumbent on royal family. His great-grandfather, how the nesi’im demonstrated unity (ר’ מנחם מענדל מקוצק זצ”ל) all Jews to do everything in their power Avraham, was crowned as leader by the (see Sforno). nations of the world (Rashi, 14:17), and ויגדו לו לאמר עוד יוסף חי וכי הוא משל to save him and return him safely to his -his grandfather, Yitzchak, was also very When Yaakov saw the wagons, he under בכל ארץ מצרים .father — Hashem — and the Torah Remaining in Egypt would spell assimi famous and had dealings with Avimelech stood that Yosef was sending him the lation for Binyamin. Therefore, we will do “And they told him, saying: ‘Yosef is yet the king of the Philistines. message, “Though my brothers seem- anything, and even endanger ourselves, alive, and that he is ruler over all the land ingly wronged me, I am united with them to save our brother.” of Egypt.’ ” (45:26) Thus, they were no longer ashamed for and carry no grudge against them.” This dressing Yosef royally and appointing revived Yaakov’s spirit and made him QUESTION: Undoubtedly, the blow (לקוטי שיחות ח”א) him a ruler over Egypt. proud of his son. which disrupted Yaakov’s tranquil life מיוסד על עיטורי תורה( “עוד יוסף ב) (שער בת רבים) and left him lachrymose was the notifica tion of the tragedy that befell his most ויאמר יוסף אל אחיו אני יוסף העוד אבי cherished son, Yosef. Thus, we can well חי ולא יכלו לענות אתו כי נבהלו מפניו imagine the exaltation and pleasure he “Yosef said, ‘I am Yosef; is my father still now experienced upon hearing the words Vaad Hakohol alive?’ The brothers became frightened “od Yosef chai” — “Yosef is yet alive.” of him and were unable to answer.” Why did they add that “he is ruler over Continued from Page2 (45:3) all the land of Egypt”? Surely, for a father The successes of the Chanukah party I would like to thank the donors who who yearned so deeply for his lost son, along with an incredible life-changing don’t want me to mention their names. QUESTION: Why were the broth- no position, regardless of its greatness, and inspirational farbrengen held on I wish you could only see the faces of the ers unable to answer Yosef’s simple could be of any bearing in comparison Yud Tes Kislev with Mashi Lipsker have kids, how they were described to me by question? to Yosef’s life. shown that Nightlife has broken through. Phyllis Mintz, and how happy and lichtig Besides the sheer crowds, the diversity of they were. ANSWER: When Yehudah defended ANSWER: The sons of Yaakov under- the participants has been amazing. The Binyamin before Yosef, he asked that stood very well the feeling of their father. participants themselves are surprised Hopefully, the light of Chanukah will he be released out of mercy. Yehudah They realized, that to merely say “Yosef that such a mainstream program can be burn out the last remnants of Galus. We explained to Yosef that the brothers had is yet alive” would not convey much. intriguing to so many types of girls. As should go from strength to strength as an elderly father and they were afraid that Many a Yosef who is torn away from one girl visiting from out of town put it, one complete family—Chassidim are when he saw his son did not return, he Jewish surroundings can be said to “I’ve always hesitated to move to Crown one family! This is really what we are might die of grief. live — technically speaking — but not Heights. I wouldn’t know many people all striving for. We should go into this within the Jewish interpretation of that and wouldn’t know what to really do with Hei Teves with Didon Notzach. The Upon hearing this, Yosef said to Yehudah word. Many descendants of Yaakov live myself after the day, but now you got me Didon Notzach should be the Hisgalus and his brothers, “ani Yosef ” — “I am in an Egypt — Mitzraim (which can be reconsidering!” of the Rebbe Melech HaMoshiach—the Yosef,” — “I am your brother Yosef whom pronounced “meitzarim” — the limita- Ultimate Didon Notzach! you sold 22 years ago” — “ha’od avi chai” tions and boundaries of the mundane Our Chanukah activities wouldn’t be — “Is my father still alive? — Think how dominating society), but the price of complete without Chanukah gelt. This Yechi HaMelech! much pain and grief you caused him by that living is often death, spiritually year alone we distributed more than keeping my sale a secret and not telling speaking. $40,000 to residents of the community. December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 13 Shiduchim

d’yankusa — what one studies in his and invites him was no real proof that he Vedibarta Bam ~ Marriage youth is more enduring. really wanted his old father’s company. “Perhaps his invitation was just to save I don’t want to G‑d forbid minimize in face and not wholehearted,” Yaakov anyway the interpretation of our great thought to himself. By: Rabbi Bogomilsky The Rabbis say (see Rashi) that Sages. These insights are Torah from the Torahs reference to agalot is an Sinai, which However, when vayar et ha’agolot — The Torah testified that Yaakov’s love for allegory. The agalot were a metaphor they acquired when he saw the wagons — Yaakov his son Yosef was more than his love for for the subject of eglah arufah — the through their sensed that the invitation “Dad, come any of his other children. It also tells us chopped off calf — which was the supreme holi- to live with me and my family” was not that he sorely missed him. All the efforts Torah portion Yaakov and Yosef had ness and Ruach only verbal. The fact that Yosef also sent of his children to comfort and console studied twenty-two years ago immedi Hakodesh — means of transportation convinced Yaa- were to no avail. ately prior to their parting. Divine inspira- kov that Yosef sincerely wanted him to tion. But I would come. Only then did the spirit of Yaakov One can well imagine that he would But I have some difficulty with this; like to share with you a novel thought revive and he said, “I will go and see him jump on the first opportunity to be which fits very well with peshuto shel before I die.” reunited with his beloved Yosef. No Firstly, if this was the message Yosef mikra —the simple literal meaning — of distance, regardless of its length or travel was conveying, would it not have the text. My dear Chatan and Kallah, the message conditions would stop him from going to you is not to suffice with lip service. to see him. ❝ why did Yosef’s Yaakov, of course, yearned for his beloved Show your appreciation and admiration son and definitely would run to see him at for each other with action. Don’t suffice While all this is indisputable, a strange demonstration of his the first opportunity. However, as many with talking about what you would do phenomenon occurred when he learned good memory have such a parent today, he wondered “How do for each other but demonstrate it in a that Yosef was still alive. an impact on Yaakov? I I know that my son really wants me to tangible way. Let you actions and way come?” Once an elderly individual who of treating each other depict that you We are told that Yaakov’s sons informed come across many people raised a family of ten children, each of mean what you say. him the thrilling news that “od Yosef who quote me things they whom became affluent and successful in chai” — “Yosef is yet alive.” Then they their respective field, came to my office For example there is a popular saying that continued to tell him the glorious posi- learned in cheder and lamented bitterly, “In my small home folding the tallit on Motza’ei Shabbat is tion he held in the Egyptian government, in their youth — 60-70 there was place for ten children and in my a segulah for sholom bayit — it demon- adding that he eagerly wanted Yaakov to ❞ years ago.. ten children’s large mansions there isn’t strates the husband’s appreciation for the come to Egypt. One would think that space for one old parent.” So the fact that wife’s gift. A wise man once said, “While Yaakov would jump from joy and scream been better for him to send a actual Yosef was alive, and that he is successful I don’t question this adage, I am sure “I will go and see him before I die.” But eglah — calf — together with all the that helping the wife wash dishes after he did not. other items he sent him? ❝In my small home there Shabbat is even a greater segulah.” It was only after that “Vayar et ha’agalot” Moreover, why did Yosef’s demonstra- was place for ten children A marriage in which the partners join in — “He saw the wagons” — that his spirit tion of his good memory have such efforts and not just in words is a blessed revived and he expressed the wish to an impact on Yaakov? I come across and in my ten children’s and long-lasting one. May you, dear go see him (45:27-28). Why? What was many people who quote me things large mansions Chatan and Kallah, be a living example his hesitancy when he heard the good they learned in cheder in their youth there isn’t space for one of such a blissful marriage. news and how was it relieved by seeing — 60-70 years ago. In fact, the Gemara ❞ the wagons? (Shabbat 21b) already said that girsa old parent.

Finding A Needle in a Haystack

By: Sarah Junik ma’amar Chazal which teaches us that a the kids should get married and that we Define who your child is. man is blessed because of his wife. If one do our job in helping them find the right Continued from last week: looks though the Igros, it is easy to see shidduch. When you help your children look for The bottom line is that it rests upon us this is recurring advice. Do not postpone a life partner it is necessary to be very as parents to look at our children and because of financial matters. You can tell when your child is ready if truthful with yourself and with your determine when they reach the right they display a majority of the following S/D. You have to make a cheshbon time. Evaluate their capabilities and their Even though it might be difficult for the characteristics: of you and your child’s abilities, and maturity. Then if they are ready - even parents to afford a wedding, they should know where you and your child stand though WE may feel WE are NOT ready not lag in finding shidduchim for their ❧ Able to envision oneself building regarding to frumkeit, health, money, for this -go ahead and start looking into children. One must have Emunah that a family and other aspects people look at during shidduchim. HKB”H will enable us to find ways and shidduchim. ❧ mature means to meet our obligations. Both parents and children might post- ❧ independent If there are health problems in the fam- pone looking for a shidduch because If there are financial problems, one ily (and please be up front with these ❧ self supportive of financial reasons. The parents don’t should limit the wedding expenses. problems when you talk to the shadchan), have the money for a wedding. and the There are organizations that B”H help ❧ responsible you might have to compromise on your children (especially the boys) feel that with this. Let us lower our expecta- ideal shidduch. If you come from a Baal ❧ reliable they do not have the wherewithall or the tions and not try to compete with the Teshuva, family you should be aware skills yet to support a family. Plony Almonys. A wedding is enjoyable ❧ ready and able to make a lifelong that there might be some Frum-from because of the family’s Varemkeit and commitment -Birth families that will not look at your In the Igros Kodesh, Vol.XII, p. 149, graciousness towards their guests. S/D. Remember, fairness is not the issue ❧ Not egocentric the Rebbe writes to someone who is here! • having difficulty in business. The Rebbe Many home-made or low-cost touches ❧ ready to sacrifice their comfort Any constructive comment is welcomed by exhorts him to follow to the letter the can make a difference without breaking ❧ Compromise to benefit others the editor. instructions received previously from the bank. Get advice from people who the Frierdiker Rebbe. The young man make weddings for Chassanim and ❧ be ready and able to communicate Write to CHP5768 @gmail. had been specifically instructed to first Kallos who require financial help, and wants and feelings to others com or directly to the author at get a shidduch and only THEN go into they will surely advise you how to trim [email protected]. ❧ realistic business. The Rebbe concludes with a the budget. The important thing is that 14 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 Human Interest

Spousal Abuse

By; Sheiny New Rabbi to advise on such heartbreaking court can punish him, excommunicate her own behalf. She simply may not have situations. and whip him and apply all measures of the emotional strength to leave. Finally, From a speech given to the Rabbini- force until he takes an oath never to do and saddest of all, is that she’ll justify But now is the time to confront the cal Association of Australia, Annual so again. If he violates this oath, he may the abusive behavior: “I stayed because reality: by hesitating, we were failing our Convention be compelled to divorce her.” I thought that I was doing something friends and sisters. The sad truth is that wrong. I felt I deserved it.” Good Afternoon Esteemed Rabbis: our Rabbi found himself in the same bind Rabbi Nachman of Breslav warns, “If that we were and still are in. As spiritual one spends one’s murderous rage upon Society as a whole, and for our purpose It is now just over 10 years since I leaders, how can you allow a family to be her, shames her, raises one’s hand to her here today, the Jewish community must was invited to join the Jewish Task broken up? Surely the husband is truly G-D forbid, the Almighty will demand emphatically say, “No more!”, indicating Force Against Family Violence. I can a mentch deep down. Once spoken to recompense of him.” in every possible way that spousal abuse still vividly recall how surprised I was he will understand that his works and/ will not be condoned. and I must admit, more than a little Rabbi Twerski emphasizes throughout or actions were unacceptable, and he uncomfortable. Surely, spousal abuse is the book that the Torah demands that will do Teshuvah. If only she gives him When a woman finally summons the not a social malady within our proud, every man, woman and child deserves to one more chance…And so the cycle courage to break her silence, most often it family-oriented Jewish community? And be treated with dignity. There can be no continues… is to the person who she believes has the certainly, not so widespread as to warrant compromise on this basic tenet. wisdom and compassion to understand its own awareness organization? It takes courage to instigate change, However, the reality is that buse exists. It the verity of her admissions. She comes despite great controversy. Rabbi Dr. exists in nice families. Abuse not halted to the individual who commands the Abuse, is the antithesis of all that Judaism Abraham Twersky authored “TheS hame in early stages of marriage will continue respect of her community due to his stands for. Morality, decency and family Borne In Silence-Spousal Abuse in the and result in further tragedy including in-depth knowledge of Torah Law. To ethics are Torah fundamentals. Jewish Community” despite intense the abuse of children who have a high the one who combines the Wisdom of pressure from segments of the And yet, if we search the dark recesses probability of becoming abusive adults. Solomon, the integrity of Moshe, and the of our minds, do we perhaps recall the Rabbinate, who preferred to keep Abuse is not the wife’s fault. Abuse will compassion of Rabbi Levi of Bardichev. hushed murmuring about that now so concealed the painful reality of this exist as long as the community condones She comes to you, esteemed Rabbi, in the distant cousin, “….they say he’s giving social ailment on the mistaken premise it by not taking active steps to prevent or hope that you will believe her, that you her a hard time….” Or the aunt, who that its exposure would cause a Chilul stop it. Abuse goes against everything will support her in her crucial time of consistently sends her regrets for not Hashem. the Torah stands for. need, and that you will guide her towards showing up to family simchas….Did you the most effective source of assistance, The book is revolutionary on many levels Statistics indicate that women in the notice how the adults sadly eyed each be it counseling, a shelter, or a divorce beginning with the author himself. wider community wait 3-5 years before other and shook their heads? Nebach, lawyer. We believe in Hashgocha Pratis, reaching out for help. In the Jewish nebach. Rabbi Twerski comes from a long line of Divine Providence. There is no such community it is 7-10 years. The question renowned and highly esteemed Torah thing as chance; there are no mistakes. But that’s where it stopped. Nobody ever then has to be asked—Why? Why does Scholars. He is an Ultra Orthodox Rabbi As the spiritual leaders of our communi- spoke of the issues directly or even gave a woman who is repeatedly battered stay with a degree in psychiatry, which he ties you have been divinely placed in the it a name, certainly not the cousin or the in the relationship? The answers are both has been practicing for many years. He unique position of supporter, comforter, aunt. Oh, the shame, the shondah, and societal and very personal. has authored more than 28 books and and wise council to your Kehilla. Please therefore, the silence. After all, there are publications discussing mental health Why does she stay? She has a better educate yourselves to recognize the clues the children to consider. We don’t want and spiritual well-being. question: Where would she go? Who of an abusive marriage. How to hear to G-d forbid, ruin their chances of a will support her and her children, once what the victim of abuse is inferring good shidduch. As a psychiatrist, Rabbi Twersky was she leaves? How will she survive on her without being able to come out and say confronted with the tragedy of Spousal own? Perhaps the fear of being alone it openly in the presence of her husband. Spousal Abuse is an ugly fact pervading Abuse for which even his extensive is enough to make her freeze in her If she does, she’ll pay for it later. How all corners of ALL communities— training had not prepared him. He tracks. Or maybe, he is so disturbed and not to say “Goodness! What did you do certainly an ugly truth, but also a fact of says, “I was inadequately prepared power-crazed that he will make good on to provoke him?” Or even for the sake life. We have to finally accept that abuse both as a rabbi and as a psychiatrist to his promise to hunt her down and kill of maintaining Shalom Bayis, be aware in all of its forms: Emotional, Physical recognize and deal with many of the real her! Or, at the very least, he may have that you should not advise her “Go and Sexual, exists in OUR community, problems both in my congregation and convinced her that she would definitely home and work this out.” Home may be i.e. in Orthodox, Frum Kehillas. among my patients. {I believe that} it is lose her children in a custody battle-- a dangerous place. incumbent upon rabbinical seminaries As a community of women, we kept after all, she is obviously unstable and to include courses on the various social silent while our sisters suffered. W e kept therefore, an unfit parent. But what about the sacred principle conditions in their curricula, and upon silent because we didn’t know what to of Shalom Bayis? Should a wife resign rabbinical organizations to arrange for Why does she stay? Because if she finally say and after all, we rationalized, it’s not herself to abuse for the sake of peace post-graduate seminars to acquaint rab- leaves after keeping silent for so many as though we could have done anything in the home? Absolutely not! This is bis with the facts of life and give them an years, will her family and friends believe about it. We know the commitment it not what the Torah expects. The Torah understanding of these problems. There her? Statistics show that daughters takes to face the responsibilities of being emphatically condemns human sacrifice. are professional counselors who will have run home to their parents only to the Akeres Habayis—the cornerstone of Shalom Bayis is a sacred concept, but it provide the necessary training.” be encouraged to return “because the the home. We understand how difficult is the responsibility of both husband and children need a father!” The tragic irony it can be to maintain an even, if not After reading “The Shame Borne in wife to see that harmony is achieved. is that the children will probably end up always, serene tone in our homes for Silence”, my naivete was shattered, and Accepting abuse is not a virtue, and suf- resenting the mother for not removing husbands and children. If our sister or I became all too aware that I, like many fering in silence is unnecessary and can them from the abusive environment. neighbor is struggling and experiencing others, have preconceived misconcep- be very dangerous. It is both a medical After all, blame can’t be laid at the feet of a harder time, we certainly listen and tions about domestic violence and that and a psychiatric opinion that the harm- the abuser—he was ill; she should have empathize, but are we really going to believing that we are immune is an ful consequences of emotional abuse are known better! S o she stays because in the advise her to leave her husband, abuse illusion. Our idealism is understandable. every bit as grave as those of physical ultra-orthodox community the shidduch notwithstanding? We would like to believe that one who battering. The one major difference is that system is very much alive, and a young lives by Torah Law would automatically physical battering requires immediate So many cultural and traditional obsta- man or woman who comes from a family and obviously live by Torah Ethics. separation. Dr. Twerski warns, “Allowing cles clouded our better judgment. W hat where there has been known abuse is not the woman to be exposed to a batterer about Shalom Bayis? Where exactly is she The Shulchan Aruch—the book of law likely to top any shadchan’s list. while attempting to correct his problems going to go? Does she prefer to be on her which all Orthodox men and women Why does she stay? Because a woman is placing her life at risk.” own? How is she going to manage alone? adhere to crystallizes the issue beyond who has been repeatedly abused may And so we passed the buck—surely it a doubt, “It is a sin for a man to beat his have such low self-esteem that she may It must be reiterated and made very is the responsibility of the community wife, and if he does this habitually, the lack the confidence to do anything on clear that Shalom Bayis is of prime December 14, 2007 ~ crOWN heights 15

perpetuated against women, it is not community requires at least one com- Spousal Abuse... unheard of for women to emotionally petent Rabbi who becomes the trained abuse their husbands. Even then, the expert in all matters relating to domestic statistics show that men outnumber violence, and especially how it relates to women in emotional abuse 16:l, but that you and me, because, yes, as the Rebbe importance in Judaism and restoring control and will be less likely to give her is one too many. points out—even women who require peace to the home is a Mitzvah of the a get, resulting in the woman becoming glatt kosher meals have sought refuge highest order. There are times when a an Agunah. When the subject of spousal abuse in shelters. It is not “yenems” problem. couple may not see eye to eye and there was still rarely discussed in public, the When a woman holds her silence for fear It is our problem. may be disagreements. There may be Lubavitcher Rebbe who truly epitomized of stigmatization, she is afraid that she problems in communication which wisdom, integrity and compassion and her children will be judged harshly We at the Jewish Taskforce are work- result in disharmony, and it is a great counsels a woman about her involvement by us, the community. A community ing towards establishing a shelter. It is mitzvah to help a couple overcome their in a woman’s shelter and the difficulties which compels a wife to accept physi- essential that we are able to consult with errors in communication, and thereby she faces: “…I trust that you will accept cal, emotional or sexual abuse is being a Rabbi who is both a Halachic authority help them achieve a healthy and happy my suggestion that you consult with at an accomplice to her husband’s crimes. and a professionally trained counselor relationship. But disagreements and a least one competent rabbi, who should be And let’s be very clear about it: Abuse in relationships, including domestic lack of communication are not abuse. familiar with all the detailed and intricate is a crime. violence. If there is not a Rabbi in our Abuse is when there is an unequal bal- factors that are at play in this activity, community who fits this profile, then I ance of power: when one partner quite How are we responsible? If the lack of particularly insofar as Yiddishkeit is would most respectfully suggest that is literally fears the other—for very good community services and cultural sup- concerned. In this connection, one must the responsibility of this organization to reason. If partners give as good as they port deprives a woman of the ability especially bear in mind that the require- ensure that such a Rabbi is duly nomi- get, and of course I mean verbally, never to maintain her dignity, then the comments of the Shulchan Aruch must be nated to fulfill this vital responsibility. physically, then we have a lousy mar- munity is tacitly encouraging the abusive fully adhered to, so that everyone may riage based on disrespect, but this does behavior and is an accomplice to sin. Our benefit from the services even if he or The incident is related where one Jew- not translate as an abusive marriage. A attitude towards women being abused, she is not otherwise a very strict Torah ish organization was asked to provide fractious marriage may be improved by especially physically abused, must be observer. For example, when a glatt a slot for discussion of wife abuse on relationship counseling, but abuse is not one of immediate supportive action. kosher meal is served, everyone can eat its convention agenda, but the agenda a “couples’” issue. Shelter and refuge must be provided of it and enjoy it; whereas when it is not coordinator said that it was not an item of for a woman and her children who are glatt kosher, it presents a problem to high priority. One year later he called to It is an act of violence by the abuser and in crisis. The community, led by the those who will only eat glatt kosher. It offer his apologies—his daughter and her a violation of the law. example of their Rabbi, must make it very should also be remembered that when two children had just come back home to It has been verified again and again that clear that we don’t sit in judgment of a we speak of Yiddishkeit, we speak of get away from a battering husband. abusers do not change because they woman being abused. We don’t blame something that deeply affects both the are told to do so. It reaches the point her for her husband’s violent tendencies. spiritual and the physical aspects of Jew- If we overcome the denial in the com- when the dissolution of the marriage We don’t consider her a failure as a wife; ish life. The zechus of helping many Jews munity now, we may be spared the is obviously the only resort. When on the contrary, we empathize with her, in need of help will surely stand you in distress of coming to our senses when counseling and numerous warnings have we believe her, and we will provide her good stead, both in your personal affairs our daughters identify themselves as failed, prolonging the marriage brings with the tools to make some very difficult and certainly in the very worthy cause victims of batterers. more children, more dependence, and decisions about her future, whether that in which you are involved.” less willingness to leave. The ultimate constitutes appropriate counseling or After reading this letter, it occurred to tragedy will be the result of this failed financial assistance. me how the Rebbe so concisely summed relationship. As she waits longer to leave, up the reasons why I am here today. Our the husband will feel that he has more Although the majority of battering is Seeking Attention

People pleasers will go out of their way to powerful: By directly asking for it. A Rabbi Hecht, is chairman of the board of the National Com- do whatever they think will satisfy oth- child who comes home and says, “I had mittee for the Furtherance of Jewish Education (NCFJE), ers and earn them a rough day, I need some time to talk, I continuing the tradition of social services management and attention. need a hug” is asking for attention in the outreach that began with his father, the Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht healthiest way possible of all. That child A’H. He is a Rabbi and activist in the Jewish community, Some examples is also more likely to get the time and the focusing on family crisis intervention, guiding and advising could be cleaning attention they want than one who comes troubled youth and their families, marriage counseling, and up a mess to please home and throws a tantrum. drugs and cults counseling and consultations. He can be their mother, doing reached at [email protected]. • well on an exam to Asking for the attention one needs is not Rabbi Shea Hecht: please their parents a guarantee - there’s always a chance one The desire for attention is a basic human dealing with their needs. or falsely compli- will be told, “I know darling, but it has to need. Many tragic stories in recent cur- menting others wait” - nonetheless that gives the greatest rent events highlight the fact that our A small child can throw a tantrum because they think it will get them some chance of getting what we’re asking for. children need attention. or make a mess and they’ll get their more attention. The big drawback to asking for attention attention - albeit negatively. On a teen- directly is that if the overture is rejected There are three primary ways for our age level - well it almost is beyond the Though this might seem like a good way it can be extremely painful. children to get our attention: Negatively, scope of the human imagination what to get attention because it is asking in a positively and directly. teens dream up or get involved in to get positive way, it doesn’t always guarantee A smart parent will ignore the negative attention negatively. There are many the results we want because the action attention seeking, cash in on the positive Children that do other ways that children get negative can sometimes be ignored. The child who attention seeking, but most of all train negative things attention such as complaining, criticizing comes home with a perfect score on his our children to recognize their need for will get attention. and taunting. test to be signed might be disappointed attention and ask for it directly. Of course, Babies cry for that his mother is distracted with the a direct request has to be responded to attention and to Though your child will sometimes get other children and doesn’t comment on graciously and abundantly. These three make their needs attention this way, some parents won’t the grade. The boy that cleans the shed means of getting attention and all their known. Crying be manipulated into responding because to please his father might be let down ramifications apply to every relation- is an annoying they expect better and the child won’t get when his father doesn’t notice and remark ship - particularly marriage - where each sound, but that’s the only way babies the attention they crave. Another way to about the job. spouse is looking to receive attention know how to communicate their needs. get attention is positively by trying to from their “better half.” Some of us never grow out of that way of please people. The last way to get attention is the most 16 CROWN HEIGHTS ~December 14, 2007 CHJCC

Shalom HEAP Call The Center The HEAP Program Outreach Workers CHJCC

SHALOM CENTER will once again start to process Heap applications 718~778~8808 CELEBRATES Chanukah at our office this year. CHILD/FAMILY HEALTH The scheduled appointments will start on TheS halom Center celebrated Chanukah INSURANCE last Thursday in full “Yom Tov mode”. TUESDAY, December 18, 2007 Mrs Kurtz...... ext. 32

at the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council, ENTITLEMENT SERVICES 387 Kingston Avenue (corner Crown St.), 9:15 AM--3:30 PM. Rivka Shur...... ext. 24 Please come early -- First come, first served Eliezer Yarmush...... ext. 30

GREAT NEWS. The outreach workers will accept BOTH regular and VOCATIONAL COUNSELING & emergency applications. (To apply for emergency heap you must have a SERVICES shut-off notice.) Rivka Shur...... ext 24 The center was already full to capacity Those families on Food Stamps with a child under 8 need not apply Bela Vilenkin...... ext. 23 early in the morning as everyone wanted unless you pay your own heating bill. You will receive it automatically. to make sure they had a place to sit. All other families must apply. Persons 60 and over can apply with DFTA FOOD STAMPS 212-442-1000. Households on Section 8 are only eligible if they pay Eliezer Yarmush...... ext. 30 At 12:30 pm the Chanukah party began their own heating bill. in the beautifully decorated dining room. FAMILY SERVICES The tables were set with festive table- Please bring in the following documentation: Phyllis Mintz ...... ext. 28 cloths; the menorah was burning, and 1) Proof of income, Soc. Sec., or support letter for the past two months the musical program began AP ARTMENT LISTINGS 2) Rent, mortgage or tax papers Many traditional Chanukah songs were Penina Metal...... ext. 21 played followed by Yiddish and Hebrew. 3) Birth certificates and social security cards for family members CRIME VICTIMS The miracle and the lessons of Chanukah 4) Fuel or utility bills were spoken about. Many of the seniors Batia Brandel ...... ext. 22 from the former Soviet Union expressed 5) Proof of Citizenship (Citizenship paper). [email protected] their appreciation of the religious free- 6) Letter for child 18 and over that he/she is in School. dom they experience now in the United (c) 917~618~0279 States. There is another heating assistance program called the Neighborhood Fuel Fund (also known as) HeartShare that is also available for anyone who has a Galina Pindrick...... ext. 31 gas heating bill. This is separate from the HEAP program, and you may apply 718~771~9000 for both programs. Our office will be accepting HeartShare applications on Tuesdays all day and Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. For more info about FEMA HeartShare call 718-778-8808 X 21. The documents needed are the same Fruma Junik ext. 10 as the Heap plus the Heap application receipt (if you applied for it). 718~774~3999 Thank you YAM~ Youth Action Movement Yosef Kanofsky During the program children from [email protected] B’nos Menachem came to entertain the seniors. 718~774~9213 The NYC Department for the Aging sent SHALOM CENTER one of their officers to participate in the Shimon Herz day’s activities. Mr. Asomota addressed Need a Mother’s Helper? “Mazal Tov”. You just had a new baby and need some extra help in the house. Or you have a large family and due to some the seniors and extended Chanukah unforeseen situation, such as an illness greetings from the commissioner and l’a, you need some extra help. The wished everyone a happy Chanukah CHJCC has a Mother’s Helper program which can help you in your time of need. At the end of the program delicious jelly For more information call Rivka Shur at donuts and other goodies were served which were greatly appreciated. The day 718-778-8808 X 24. ended on a high note with the seniors enjoying another beautiful program at the Shalom Center Any senior interested in joining the center can reach us at 718 774-9213.