I KNOW A GUY, INC. HOME RENOVATIONS

See Page 55 $1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM VOL. 9 NO. 45 1 ELUL 5769 ohypua ,arp AUGUST 21, 2009 INSIDE FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK “NO ROOM FOR TWO STATES” Sotomayor & The BY LARRY GORDON Avi Shafran 23 My Husband, Arnie Town Hall Meeting Hannah Reich Berman 25 America has been expressing Granted that many of those fea- MindBiz itself of late with a unique out- tured on the news were not the Esther Mann, LMSW 26 pouring of emphatic and emo- most articulate or erudite of The Real Agenda tional communication that spokespeople, but it was that Moshe Dann 54 many of us perhaps had no idea superficial ineptitude that was possible. The groundswell made them appear so real, P h o

of opposition to what the authentic, and sincere. t o

Ode To The Palisades B y ? ?

Obama administration appar- Frankly, I really do not know ? ?

Chana Sasson 58 ? ? ? ? ? ?

ently has in store for the future how much interest there is ? ? ? ? of health care in our country has among our readership in the ? outraged much of the citizenry. subject and details of national Mike Huckabee, FOX News commentator and former Republican I believe that President health care. Certainly there is presidential candidate and governor of Arkansas, surveying the security fence around Jerusalem earlier this week. Mr. Huckabee was in for Obama has misjudged the feel- great concern—in particular three days as a guest of the Jerusalem Reclamation Project. He said that ings and intelligence level of as far as he can see, there is “no room for two states within the borders of much of the American people. Continued on Page 6 the State of Israel.” See Page 53 ALONE IN THE FIVE TOWNS HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE

BY JAY KAYE that clique who were serious stu- The King Is In The Field dents. And, as humans tend to Kalikstein-Strassfeld They grew up in . do, he mimicked those in his cir- BY LARRY GORDON there are not reflected in our ad wedding. Jack was a handsome, tall, dark- cle and buckled down to his quickly enough. While we try See Page 70 haired 21-year-old who had sur- studies. Days before Passover As you probably know, we run to keep the ad updated, we’ve vived the system, sum- during his junior year, his accept- an ad here in the 5TJT, as a public encountered some difficulties mer camps, winter breaks in ance letter to Columbia Law service, that lists a schedule of every now and then, and this Miami, Passover in a Poconos School arrived. minyanim for Minchah and leads to people showing up hotel, and the gift of his parents’ Jane was of the privileged Maariv around the Five Towns. where there is no minyan, or eight-year-old car when he gradu- class. She grew up in Hillcrest, It’s an important feature because, where a minyan has just ended, ated from high school. Jack natu- the oldest of three girls and the as you know, the times for or where it will start an hour rally found his way to Yeshiva child of a modestly successful Minchah and Maariv, the after- later, forcing them to wait University. Early on, after surviv- businessman. The awkward- noon and evening prayer services, around. ing the impetuosity of adoles- are constantly moving around. cence, Jack found himself among Continued on Page 10 Unfortunately, changes out Continued on Page 8 BACH’s Smashing Sucess HOT DAYS OF Running for Ohel. A Wedding See Page 37 Speech SUMMER TRANSLATED AND ANNOTATED BY Another Mother’s Musings RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN BY PHYLLIS J. LUBIN

Translator’s note: Over 63 It’s hot. It’s very hot. years ago, Reb Chatzkel Leven- “Did they cancel swim for stein, zt’l, the mashgiach of the tomorrow?” Shani’s (a fellow

P Mirrer Yeshiva in and lifeguard at camp) grandmother h o t o B

y of the Ponevezh Yeshiva in B’nei asked her Sunday. ? ? ? ? ? ?

? Brak, spoke at the wedding of “Why would they cancel ? ? ? ? ? ?

? , shlita. Rav swim?” ? Kviat is a member of Moetzes “Because it’s going to be too The Friendship Circle and the BACH Shul joined together in a successful Gedolei ; the mechaber of hot!” A word with Shimon Craimer. community carnival. The festivities included music, rides, games, See Page 44 face-painting, and stilt walkers. See Page 38 Continued on Page 14 Continued on Page 17

CANDLE LIGHTING August 21 – 7:25 PM August 28 – 7:15 PM See Page 35 2 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 3 4 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 5 FROM THE EDITOR because it’s not a fair, proper, or workable FEATURES Continued from Front Cover formula for future peace in the region. Just like Town Hall meetings have put Around The Five Towns 33 around here—about this notion that if the brakes on a radical “now you see it, P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 you earn $250,000 a year or more, you’re now you don’t” application to health 516-984-0079 in a combination of some kind of care, I believe it is possible to do the same [email protected] Classified Ads 66 exposed and vulnerable state that thing in attempting to get Barack Obama [email protected] equates you with a high-income-earning and his advisers to retool their approach LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON Daf Yomi Insights bad guy who has to pay up—or pay down to Israel and the Middle East. To that end Publisher/Editor Managing Editor as the case may be—in order to even I have spoken privately with some politi- YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow 16 Sales Managers things out and share some of your hard- cal activists in our far-reaching communi- earned income with the less fortunate (or ty and am calling out to our elected repre- CHANA ROCHEL ROSS The Dish Editorial Assistant less hard-working) folks out there. sentatives in Congress to convene a Town Elke Probkevitz 21 I have been enamored these last few Hall meeting in our area to discuss the SIDI BARON YAKOV SERLE weeks with the way the idea of Town Obama approach and the role of Sales Representatives Five Towns Simcha Hall meetings seemed to have picked up Congress in future policy toward Israel. SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC Ira Thomas Creations 69, 70 a life and momentum of its own across I’d like to reach out to our senators— Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor the country. Our Congress is on recess, Charles Schumer and Kristin Gillibrand— CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Insights On The Torah with our representatives visiting their and to our elected officials in Congress. Hannah Reich Berman, Anessa V. Cohen, home communities and the people they That includes Carolyn McCarthy, Peter Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg, Toby Klein Greenwald, Rabbi Dr. Jonathan Sacks 30 are serving in the Senate and the House King, Anthony Weiner, Gregory Meeks, Rabbi Yair Hoffman, Miriam Horowitz, Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, Shmuel Katz, Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier 32 of Representatives. The Obama adminis- Steve Israel, and others. While they may Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann, Rochelle Miller, tration has adopted a policy of attempt- not read this direct appeal, by virtue of Martin Mushell, Elke Probkevitz, Naomi Ross, Letters To The Editor 45 ing to change some of the fundamentals the fact that their names appear in this Rachael Schindler, Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, of our country at breakneck speed and essay their offices will most likely see this Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher Luach 9 before people have an opportunity to article via the Google Alerts service. DOV GORDON, ELISHEVA ELEFANT realize what is happening to us, them, The people of the U.S. have spoken on Staff Graphic Artists and the country itself. It’s not that so health care. Why can we not be just as IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS MindBiz much change is needed so quickly. expressive and articulate on the adminis- Staff Photographers Esther Mann, LMSW 26 Rather, it is the specific strategy to fol- tration’s tilted and hypocritical approach FRANKEL & CO. low through with plans at maximum to Israel? Let us work to convene these Design & Production speed because they are potentially so meetings. Let’s turn out and fill the ven- TALIYE CORLEY Real Estate Art Director unpopular. ues to capacity and speak out in a civil Anessa V. Cohen 28 This approach is not only being and reasonable way and try to under- SARAH GREENBAUM Assistant Art Director applied to health care or the economy. stand why we as a community are being That’s The Way It Is! The political version of a fast break complicit in Israel’s isolation and her The is an independent weekly news- paper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not Hannah Reich Berman 25 approach—or “run and gun,” as it is called being turned into the one entity in the necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not on the basketball court—is being applied region that has traditionally been labeled responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or to Israel and the Middle East as well. the “obstacle to peace.” establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times. Travel 34 Thankfully, the strategy is failing. We The structure of the United States’ sys- should be pleased that it’s not working, tem of government is such that the

6 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES President cannot get much done without Prior to the health care issue bursting into ed that there can be one standard for city, which they have insisted has to the consent or agreement of the Congress. the forefront and taking all of Mr. Obama’s Jews and another for Arabs? Why is the come about as a result of negotiations Our elected officials are directly answer- time, he attempted to quickly slam Israel administration so bent on demanding between the parties? able to the people who placed them in to the mat with a demand on freezing set- that Israel destroy what they consider And why isn’t the U.S. Embassy located office—that would be all of us—the peo- tlements and succumbing to all Arab illegal housing in Jerusalem while they in Jerusalem after it was enacted into U.S. ple who go to the polls and vote. That demands for withdrawal. stand up to defend the right of Arabs to law so long ago? How can the U.S. sup- would explain why the Obama adminis- port additional Israeli withdrawals from tration hit the ground running immedi- territory that borders so much con- ately after the inauguration. In terms of tentious territory? Didn’t they see what the dynamics of the electoral process, How can we possibly fault Mr. Obama for believing happened after Israel unilaterally evacu- once Labor Day passes and this off-year ated Lebanon and Gaza? The only divi- election comes and goes, those who want that the Jewish community supports his vision of a dend was violence. Is this sound policy to be reelected to the House of for Israel that the U.S. supports? Representatives are going to have to begin shrunken State of Israel if 78% of voted I think we need some Town Hall meet- their election campaigns. Those elections ings so that our elected officials can hear do not take place in a vacuum. There will for him just six months ago? us loud and clear in the context of our be opposition both from within the polit- feelings about the evolving U.S. policy to ical parties the candidates belong to as Israel as well as from the perspective of well as from opposing parties. President election days that loom ahead in the Obama will very much want to retain his I’m afraid that once health care fades build illegally in the city? Has the admin- near future. O party’s large majority in Congress, and from the President’s immediate agenda, istration pre-judged or drawn a conclu- Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at that will mean closely monitoring all the he’s going to need a success—which, as in sion on the matter of the future of the [email protected]. races across the nation. the administrations that preceded this That means less time to ram philo- one, means leaning on Israel. How can sophical economic and health policies we possibly fault Mr. Obama for believing along with inevitable tax increases that that the Jewish community supports his the people just don’t want or agree to. A vision of a shrunken State of Israel if 78% profile on Obama’s Chief Of Staff, Rahm of American Jews voted for him just six Emanuel, in last week’s Times months ago? said that the hurry-up-and-get-it-all-done- That’s why we need a Town Hall meet- at-once strategy is the brainchild of Mr. ing here in the Five Towns, in Queens, and Emanuel. They ran their way through the in Brooklyn with our elected leaders in economic bailouts and through the stim- Washington. When Mr. Obama wants to ulus program. Now it seems that it may meet with Jewish leaders he selects those all be coming to a screeching halt over who represent organizations that share health care. his view on Israel and the Middle East. Interestingly, had Mr. Obama gotten his It’s time for the president and our quick way with health care, he would have other officials to hear us out and listen to picked up even greater speed and gusto in what we have to say about the right of his approach to Israel and the need for Jews to live anywhere in Israel that they peace between Israel and her neighbors. please. Why is it so nonchalantly accept-

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 7 BAGEL STORE a minyan. Now in many instances and in always make their best effort to daven equation during the month of Elul. Continued from Front Cover many communities that dynamic has been with a minyan on rosh chodesh. And that’s Each opportunity that is presented to turned around; today, very often the especially true of Rosh Chodesh Elul, us as a people when this time of year Although it is not necessarily our minyanim are there to cater to the varying which is Thursday and Friday of this week. occurs brings with it a plethora of new responsibility, to an extent we have schedules and conveniences of the people. Going to a minyan in the morning, after- and unique opportunities. Perhaps to become a Five Towns clearinghouse for I’ve even noticed that yeshiva minyan- noon, and evening is both challenging and some it feels like and even looks like last minyan schedules, and rarely does a week im have, in some instances, moved their habit-forming. Once you start doing it, year’s Elul (with the exception of which go by where we do not get calls asking if morning starting times forward a notch, to you’ll find that it has its own momentum. dates on the solar calendar it coincides we can help locate a minyan, usually for 7:45 or even 8:00 a.m. for the students. I But once you stop, for whatever reason, with). But that’s not the case. Minchah. It reminds me of the times I don’t believe that it is necessarily because that too has its own, downward, momen- The month of Elul has this unique char- used to go to JFK Airport to pick my par- the students are having trouble getting up tum. Granted, there are many things like acter to it because, as our sages have written, ents up from their jaunts to Miami, where earlier than we used to. I believe it’s a com- that in all of our lives. For those of us, how- it is the time of year when G-d is more theo- they would go to escape the snowy and bination of the long day in yeshiva cou- ever, brought up and educated in the yeshi- retically accessible as compared to other sometimes brutal winters in New York. It times of the year. It’s written that during this has happened more than once that, as I rather propitious month of the year, was standing around near the arrivals Hashem, so to speak, comes off His throne board waiting for some sign or announce- and “the King is in the field.” With that kind ment that their flight had landed, a We as a people have harbored this of access—as with other opportunities in stranger would approach me and in a non- life that may be easier for us to relate to— chalant fashion ask if I knew when the El unique quality to reach back in time— the possibilities are indeed endless. Al flight was scheduled to arrive from More than that, Elul and the days leading Israel. It didn’t take too long for me to real- up to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are ize that because I was standing in the air- whether one year ago or fifty years traditionally a time for introspection. We port, wearing a yarmulke and biding my are encouraged, of course, to look ahead time, whoever needed to know anything ago—and remake past experiences. with hope for a good and positive future. about El Al assumed I had that knowledge But it is essential, at the same time, to use available to me on demand. past experience as a springboard to change Our office is of course glad to assist our personal as well as communal future. anyone who needs any kind of informa- I’m particularly fond of this time of year tion that we can disseminate. Aside from pled with the later hour of the evening va system, the minyan was always a funda- because of the lessons that are inherent in people looking for ads in the paper that that some are learning and studying until. mental component of each and every day. it on the subject of time travel. Who hasn’t they are unable to find, or searching for I may be going out a bit on a limb here, But davening with a minyan is not just contemplated where our past experiences back articles, the most common inquiry but it is most likely that a large number of about doing what you’re accustomed to have gone? Do they exist somewhere in to the office is about that little box that the people reading this article rarely daven doing. Participating in a minyan con- some higher form of reality, out of the lists the minyanim schedule. with a minyan on weekday mornings—or, tributes to creating a new entity that reaches of our earthly mortal abilities? Are It’s both a little odd and very interesting for that matter, Minchah or Maariv either. becomes a channel for prayer that can pen- they retrievable? Will we ever have a how the nature and times of minyanim are Many of those in that category won’t miss etrate realms beyond an individual’s capa- chance to experience them again someday? reflective of a demonstrative shift in the going to shul on Friday night or Shabbos, bility. It is the result of the fusion of at least It might be a small stretch, but that’s population of a community. Once upon a and it also seems—although I’m not sure ten Jews gathered and praying in unison to where this month of Elul comes into the time it was incumbent upon us to adjust where this habit was picked up—that the One Above. And there is something picture. Only in a period dedicated to our schedules so as to be able to pray with many non-daily minyan participants will even more powerful about this dynamic repentance, as this month is, do we have

8 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES the opportunity to reach back to past deeds and experiences, home in on them, and conjure them to the fore. Only through the unique concept of teshuvah—which, when done properly, is well beyond contri- tion or regret in what can be achieved through it—can we reach back in time and change an act or deed that may have once been harmful or destructive into some- thing positive and productive. We as a peo- ple have harbored this unique quality to reach back in time—whether one year ago or fifty years ago—and remake past experi- ences. In a sense, it is indeed a glimpse into the concept of time travel. Of course this can be effectuated in a private and personal way as well as in a communal or national fashion. An antag- onist of a chassidic rebbe once asked him how it is that, in the aftermath of the destruction of our Holy Temples in Jerusalem, he and his chassidim could cel- ebrate, drink, and dance, whether on Shabbos or at any other time. The rebbe agreed with the individual that indeed the House of the L-rd is empty, and the Master is absent from His holy abode. “Yes,” he agreed, “Hashem is not in His home—that’s because He is with us.” O Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at [email protected]. CALENDAR LUACH August 20-August 29 ZIP Code: 11516

30 Av Thursday, August 20 1st day Rosh Chodesh Elul 1 Elul Friday, August 21 2nd day Rosh Chodesh Elul Shofar, L’David Hashem Ori Daf yomi: Bava Metzia 118 Z’manim*: Earliest tallis/tefillin: 5:14 am Sunrise: 6:12 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 8:58 am Gr’a 9:34 am P’lag ha’minchah: 6:19 pm Candle Lighting: 7:25 pm 2 Elul – Shabbos Saturday, August 22 Shabbos Parashas Shof’tim Avos: Ch. 6 Shabbos ends**: 8:27 pm 72 min. 8:56 pm 8 Elul Friday, August 28 Daf yomi: Bava Basra 7 Earliest tallis/tefillin: 5:22 am Sunrise: 6:19 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 9:00 am Gr’a 9:36 am P’lag ha’minchah: 6:10 pm Candle Lighting: 7:15 pm 9 Elul – Shabbos Saturday, August 29 Shabbos Parashas Ki Seitzi Avos: Ch. 1–2 Shabbos ends**: 8:14 pm 72 min. 8:44 pm * from MyZmanim.com ** add a few minutes for tosefos Shabbos according to your minhag 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 9 Alone circle and soon worked her way towards place was paramount. Later, she would tives were studied. A spate of friends hav- Continued from Front Cover Jack. She found her opportunity and resume her studies. A small apartment in ing moved to the Five Towns and prox- introduced herself and as the crowd dissi- Riverdale, Jack’s commute to Columbia, imity to family dictated their choice. ness of elementary school and the pated, maneuvered her way, gently guid- followed by hours of studying while Jane A starter home in Woodmere yielded shame of braces soon gave way to a slen- ing Jack, to a lounge chair continuing her worked as a receptionist and dove in to to a respectable home in Lawrence as the der and attractive blond with a dazzling dialogue, the two of them all alone now. the social whirl of young couples that is number of their children doubled and smile. She too matured through the typ- The conversation ended at curfew and Riverdale’s hallmark became the focus of Jack’s salary first escalated and then the ical Modern Orthodox assembly line and telephone numbers were exchanged. their lives. brass ring of large law firm partnership found her way to Stern College. Growing Long conversations about their youth, Jack’s grinding studies yielded success. was bestowed on Jack, as a result of sixty up at the height of the feminist revolu- identifying mutual friends, speaking end- An offer from a leading law firm at a then hour plus work weeks, suggesting a life- tion, she was committed to pursue a lessly about matters they thought to be of astounding $50,000 annual salary time of accumulating wealth and the sub- serious course of study in microbiology. deep philosophical significance, so they arrived. At the same time, the ever sequent accessibility of all that money No, Jane was not going to be a simple each thought, was followed by dinners at increasing number of pregnant friends could buy. homemaker. local delis and pizza stores, then movies and growing parade of strollers at shul Jane and Jack arrived. Each dove in to serious academic stud- and weekend outings to parks and beach- and endless conversations about Jane’s life became a whirlwind of PTA ies. Each excelled. Neither initially gave es, during which visions of the future and Pampers, first teeth, crawling, and first meetings, parent teacher conferences, much thought to finding a mate. In the a life together became the principal topic. steps stimulated Jane and Jack’s innate preparing elaborate luncheons, early winter of Jack’s first year of law The tidal wave of friends becoming need to reproduce. The completion of reciprocated by numerous invitations. school, after final exams and in need of a engaged soon engulfed them. Caught up Jane’s studies was put on hold. A beauti- Play groups. After school activities. simple diversion, Jack, on a pure lark, in this vortex, their engagement ful boy arrived, followed two years later Pediatrician visits. Manicures. Shopping, accompanied some friends to the Stern inevitably followed. A lavish wedding by a sister creating an intolerable endless shopping; for Jane, for their two dormitory’s ground floor reception area. with 500 attendees was conducted, as if cramped condition in Jane and Jack’s jun- girls and two boys. Homework. Lunches Jane’s captivating good looks and inviting by divine right. Naturally, Jane put her ior four. Jack’s growing success and on Central Avenue with the girls. The smile caught his eye. Jane, a sophomore, career and academic ambitions on hold, increasing salary in the face of a growing gym. Choosing summer camps. Home observed the confident tall young man. as they naturally assumed that she would family demanded the acquisition of the decorating, followed by home expansion. Noticing Jack chatting with some friends, seek employment and support the couple American dream: A home of their own. Contractors, architects, decorators, fab- women known to Jack during his camp as Jack completed law school, which, Quickly discovering that housing prices rics, floor covering, kitchen design, days at Seneca Lake, Jane slipped in to the unsurprisingly to them, in that time and in Riverdale were prohibitive, alterna- plumbing, and endlessly studying various decorating magazines consumed Jane for what seemed to take years. Meanwhile, Jack was driven by his own ambition; his singular need to achieve professional success was his only focus. Leaving home at dawn, returning at 10:00, grabbing a sandwich, and then doing more paperwork was Jack’s daily routine. Client telephone calls interrupt- ed Sunday outings, Little League games, vacations, and the rare family outing. As Jack’s client base grew, Jack found himself trotting the globe. Jane’s focus being else- where and being provided with the luxu- riant life of a Five Towner made her indif- ferent to Jack’s separate world and his diverted attention. Weekly lunches on Central Avenue, lav- ish Shabbos meals, compulsory family din- ners at various restaurants on Sunday evenings took their toll on Jane, as size 4 escalated from 4 to 6 to 8 to double digits. The delicate manicures, latest fashions, chiseled coiffures, replete with dyed high- lights (all of which seemed to be statutori- ly mandated by village law for local female citizens) all seemed to be a bit futile in the face of an expanded waistline. Family attendance at shul was punctu- ated by Jack’s charter membership in the Kiddush Club, topped off by the sacred recital of Kiddush after services for Jane, as he quaffed the latest single malt. Lunches with friends similarly began with yet another redundant Kiddush, and then the jeroboams of the latest fine wines. Upon returning home, Jack stretched out on the sofa ostensibly to catch up with his reading. In short order, he fell fast asleep and first stirred to con- sciousness hours later. Jane, exhausted by her week’s travails, slipped into sweat- pants and a well worn T-shirt and bur- rowed in to her bed where she too slept away the day. There was nothing unique about the road being traveled in parallel by Jane or Jack. This seemed to be identical to the lives of each of their friends and neigh- bors. At social events, Jane naturally spent hours chatting with women about the focuses of their separate lives. Jane chat- ted about school, kids, decorating ideas, new recipes, and the latest fashion.

Continued on Page 12 10 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 11 Alone became a confusing blur of sheva brachos mutually confronted the realization they there was no cache. It was his alco- Continued from Page 10 and shivah calls. were each uncomfortably living with holism, his infidelity while on the road, Mysteriously, a day appeared when the strangers. They shared no common inter- his bloated ego, wasn’t it Jane? It was her Communal social events found Jack hud- children were gone: Gone to their own ests, their visions of the future were not materialism, her empty headedness, that dled with equally driven male friends, spouses, gone to colleges and profession- shared, and their present was without joy. strange friendship with the contractor, seeking to network, boasting about their al schools, the social whirl of the Upper Marital counseling was of no avail. In wasn’t it Jack? Her weight increase? Her business and professional accomplish- West Side. Jack began to come home and fact, it only provided them with the spending? It was the way she let herself ments, the new Lexus in the driveway, found that he had little to talk about with opportunity to reload and rearm for esca- go, wasn’t it Jack? the travails of travel, recent articles in The Jane. Having little in common with Jack, lating strife at home. As tensions in the divorce negotiations Wall Street Journal, investment opportu- Jane spent the evenings chatting with They both simultaneously arrived at the mounted, Jack and Jane began to feel that nities, the ebb and flow of real estate and friends of 25 years. As Jack’s free time same conclusion: a life alone was far prefer- they could gain the upper hand by put- Wall Street. increased, he became glued to the televi- able to a joyless life with a stranger. They ting pressure on the other through the Lifecycle events became Jane and sion watching large grown men hurling resolved to dissolve the marriage with a estrangement in the community that Jack’s common ground. The brissim, baby would result if these questions were showers, Chumash plays, and Siddur par- answered in the affirmative, albeit ties, soon yielded to bar and bat mitzvahs untruthfully. Inquirers seemed to feel and graduations. Winter break vacations, better when they were told that infideli- Passovers in Miami, and summer trips to Jane and Jack mutually confronted ty, rather than indifference, dissolved the exotic locations were the primary venues bonds of marriage. Tiring of the meddling when Jane and Jack were physically and persistent interrogations of friends together but psychically apart. “Michelle the realization they were each and neighbors who seemed incredulous time” had not yet been invented. And all when told that they had simply grown of these bonding opportunities between uncomfortably living with strangers. apart, both Jane and Jack, first by the Jane and Jack were always subject to the appearance of their silent acknowledge- vicissitudes and demands of Jack’s profes- ment of the truth of the accusations sional obligations. Jane busied herself at aimed at the adversary and then designed the spa, soaking in the sun, and, of to silence their interlocutors. Each, course, shopping. When the children cylindrical objects, while trying to cause minimum of strife. Jack took an apartment emboldened by the raucous choruses of were present, bonding time between Jane physical damage to equally large fellows on Central Avenue. Lawyers were engaged. the opposing fan clubs, got sucked in to and Jack took a second seat to Jane’s yield- wearing different colored uniforms. This Wrenching disclosures to children, parents, leading the blame game, hoping to win ing to the attention their children focus was simply alien to Jane. Her métier and then friends followed. the hearts and minds of those who would demanded and Jack’s devotion to tending became Dancing with the Stars, The Office, Oddly, friends of many, many years, soon cast their vote for the Five Towns to his clients, even while away. The Bachelorette, and the latest exploits of began asking what seemed to Jane and version of American Idol. Bar and bat mitzvahs and graduations Madonna, Brad Pitt, Lindsay Lohan, Jack as completely odd questions: What Friends of many years felt that their soon evolved into engagement parties, Angelina Jolie, and Demi Moore. After 26 happened? They initially responded own marriages were now safe because weddings, and baby showers. These years of marriage, each realized that they truthfully: They grew apart. Friends with they were not alcoholics, they were loyal moments of joy were increasingly punc- were living with an unknown person, an whom they shared joys and tragedies to their spouses, they were not self cen- tuated by the deaths of neighbors’ par- alien stranger with little or nothing in over almost three decades were uniform- tered, they were not materialistic, and ents, funerals, and shivas. Discussions common, whose very appearance under ly dissatisfied with this simple sad reali- they were well versed in the issues of the about child care evolved into discussion the same roof caused discomfort. ty. Friends compulsively felt the need to day. They enhanced their own imagined about caring for aging parents. Life Then the inevitable: Jane and Jack dig deeper, even though in actuality marital security by expounding on the

12 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES admissions they extracted from each of Yonie took his first tentative sips of water, extended were when a neighbor had a sin- I’m so sorry, but we already have plans. I’m Jane and Jack, or the tales whispered in empty his bedpan and hold him upright gle relative visiting from Toronto who just too tired this week, but we must get shul or at the manicurist. Jack wasn’t just as he took his first post surgical painful might be a good match, since the visitor together. The kids are in from out of town. an alcoholic, he was a drug addict. Jack steps accompanied by a pole stacked shared a common religion and each had Murray isn’t feeling well. Jack’s attempts to was a philanderer of the first order. Jack with IV’s. Now Jack was being exiled from two legs and two arms, just like either Jane invite friends to his humble abode, long- had embezzled fortunes from his firm. their home, because Jinny was afraid or Jack. And, it was so much easier to set ing to return to the social whirl that had Jane emptied the bank accounts. about “awkwardness?” Wasn’t it a bit previously been de rigueur for Jack were Exaggerated assumptions evolved into more awkward to empty the bedpan of a met with unseen smirks and unheard guf- the stuff found between the covers of friend aged 45? faws. Complaints to confidants of many tawdry novels. The banality of suburban Initial expressions of sympathy and The contamination of years about the loneliness of social dialogue now sizzled with talk of local empathy by neighbors and friends dwin- ostracism were met with yawns. scandal. The contamination of divorce dled to benign neglect. Suddenly, friends divorce was urgently Jane and Jack’s children married and was urgently kept away from their own and neighbors who, in years past, would saw no alternative but to move elsewhere homes by the communal quarantine of stop and chat as they bumped into either kept away from their when they married. They couldn’t bear Jane and Jack, accomplished largely by Jane or Jack, just either rushed by with the negotiations over which parent would wagging tongues. barely a nod, or now had a sudden and own homes by the host them for which meal. Their parents’ Friends whom Jack had known for 25 urgent need to cross the street. Friends bickering and demands that the children years and more, friends whom Jack had and neighbors who, when they heard the communal quarantine distance themselves from the other par- loaned money to in difficult times, initial seemingly shocking news, rushed ent took their toll. Most painful of all was friends whose parents Jack had buried, to invite one or the other to their homes of Jane and Jack. the children’s devastation by their con- friends who had the benefit of Jack’s com- for a Shabbat or yom tov meal, lest either temporaries’ parroting the rumors and pany when their hearts attacked them eat alone, slowly stopped extending invi- fabrications regarding their parents that suddenly, friends whose children Jack tations. A subconscious fear permeated became the centerpiece of their counter- had coddled in moments of joy and the community that if Jack or Jane the table with an even number of guests. parts’ parents’ holiday meals. The squab- severe illness announced that they had entered their home, the blight of divorce Jane’s previous pride in being a hostess bling which should have ended when the met with their own spouses and after would be transmitted like some conta- extraordinaire dissipated as previous divorce was ultimately finalized contin- lengthy discussion, concluded that they gious disease. guests at her home began developing dif- had decided to take Jane’s side. What is In time, the only invitations that were ferent excuses for declining invitations. Continued on Page 15 this, Jack thought, a public referendum? A sporting event, in which observers decide which team they were going to root for? How dare Mickey tell him that he and his wife, Mia, had met at length together and decided to cast their joint ballot to be charter members of the Jane fan club? Years earlier, Marty confided to Jack that he had committed an act of indiscretion with a colleague while on a business trip in Chicago. Women whom Jane had shared many years of intimate experi- ences began to shun her, voicing in back- rooms concerns that Jane was trouble in one way or another. In the early days of Jane and Jack’s estrangement, Jinny, a neighbor, invited Jack for Shabbos lunch. Nothing unusual here; Jinny and her husband, Yonie, were among Jane and Jack’s best friends. They vacationed together; Jack drove Yonie to work almost every day. Yonie, a business consultant, shared many clients with Jack. As virtually every previous Shabbos concluded, the only question seemed to be which movie the foursome would attend together. As lunch concluded that particular Shabbos and Jinny walked Jack to the door, Jinny said to Jack that since it was going to be awkward to have Jack over again for Shabbos, because Jane lived a few doors away and would surely be upset, it would be best if Jinny and Yonie no longer include Jack in their plans. Huh? Jack thought. Jack was com- pletely indifferent as to whom Jinny entertained and actually hoped that at least neighbors would offer Jane an open door, since Jack at least had the distrac- tion of work. Huh? Jack wondered. When Jinny’s son, Billy was suddenly diagnosed with cancer, it was Jack who frequently drove Billy to get his chemo treatments. Shortly before Billy was scheduled to have his third operation, Yonie suddenly developed a dangerous intestinal condi- tion which required emergency surgery— scheduled to occur simultaneously with Billy’s at a hospital miles away from Billy’s new home at Sloan Kettering. Jinny obviously couldn’t be at two places simultaneously. It was simply natural for Jack to accompany Yonie to Mt. Sinai, be at his side in the recovery room, accom- pany him to his room, hold his cup as

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 13 A Wedding Speech Continued from Front Cover

numerous sefarim on (Succas Dovid), Chumash, and the moadim; a in the Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn; and the rav of the Eighteenth Avenue Agudah in Brooklyn. The wedding of Rabbi Dovid Kviat, ylc”t, and Rebbitzen Dvorah nee Lieberman, a”h, took place in Brooklyn on 2 Tammuz, 5707 (on the evening of June 19, 1947). This was Rav Levenstein’s speech: “Shlomo HaMelech writes (Shir HaShirim 8:9), ‘Eem chomah hee, nivneh alehah tiras kasef.’ Rashi explains this pasuk, ‘If her [this nation’s] faith and belief are as strong as a wall, withstand- ing incursions from beyond, we shall become her fortress and beauty.’ “We can observe from this pasuk that the underlying nature of the Jewish nation is that they are as solid as iron, unfazed by any and all circum- onto him by the edge of his cloak. Rabbi stances and situations. We see it in Yehoshua ben Levi swore an oath that Megilas Esther (5:9), ‘Mordechai…did he will not come back. What was the not rise and did not stir before him Angel of Death to do? Hashem Himself [Haman].’ We see it from the responded and ruled, ‘If Rabbi (Beitzah 25b), ‘There are three that are Yehoshua ben Levi in his lifetime had fiercely bold, Israel among the nations, ever annulled an oath, he must go back a dog before animals, and a rooster and cannot enter Gan Eden alive. If he among chickens.’ had never annulled an oath then he

Roshei yeshiva all across the world use the Succas Dovid on Shas to prepare shiurim.

“Indeed, it is this quality which has may remain.’ The Sabbah of Kelm allowed the nation of Israel to endure. explained that if he had ever annulled “The states (Vayikra Rabbah an oath he would have been lacking 32:5), ‘There are four reasons why ever so slightly in deveikus Bashem and Israel was redeemed, that they did not he may only enter Olam HaBa through change their names.’ They did not the Angel of Death. But if he had never change because of this quality of annulled an oath in his life, it is a sign which we speak. that he had complete deveikus to “It is on account of this very quality Hashem and the decree does not apply that they merited to become close to to him. Hashem as the pasukim say (Devarim 7:7- “This is the concept of a misas 8), ‘Not because you are more numerous neshikah—death through a Divine kiss— than all the nations…Rather because of that they [these righteous people] merit Hashem’s love for you.’ The Ramban to cleave to Hashem within their lifetime. explains that the essential love that “It is this quality which we see in our Hashem has for the Bnei Yisrael is chasan. He is undeterred by any situation. because by nature they are fit for this. For He remains unchanged, solid as a door, the nation of Israel has stood by Hashem under all circumstances. He will there- in all its trials. When challenged by the fore merit all the good, kol tuv, and will other nations of the world they have surely build his house as a tiras kasef, a stubbornly responded (Sh’mos Rabbah turret of silver.” 42:9), ‘We will either remain as Jews or we Rav Levenstein was, of course, will be nailed to the stake!’ remarkably prescient. Rav Kviat taught “It is with this concept that the numerous talmidim, and wrote many Sabbah of Kelm explained the dozens of sefarim that are still in use in Kesuvos (77b). The Gemara explains today. Roshei yeshiva all across the that Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi was so world use the Succas Dovid on Shas to great that when he was ill the Heavenly prepare shiurim. He is a rosh yeshiva’s court instructed the Angel of Death to rosh yeshiva. The remarkable determi- go to him and fulfill anything that he nation of Rav Kviat in continuing to wishes. Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi write sefarim and learn Torah under all requested to see his ultimate resting circumstances is unparalleled and place in Gan Eden, but first asked the speaks volumes of Rav Chatzkel’s Angel of Death for his knife. The Angel insight. May Rav Kviat have a complete of Death complied with the requests. refuah sheleimah besoch sh’ar cholei When he was shown the place, Rabbi amo Yisrael. Amein. O Yehoshua ben Levi jumped over to the The translator may be reached at other side. The Angel of Death held [email protected]. 14 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Alone Shabbat mornings were so much Continued from Page 13 better sleeping late, taking a jog or vig- orous walk around the Five Towns, ued, fueled by the competing fans of each taking in some sun—almost anything Rabbi Dovid Kviat “side” of the contest. but shul. Shul attendance became especially Life for Jane and Jack devolved into strained. Seemingly, Jane and Jack had Shabbat dinners for one, accompanied RESEARCHED BY poor—as were most residents of been absent when the rabbi must have only by two lonely flickering candles, MIRELLE HOFFMAN Bialystok at the time. When Reb Dovid announced that as people entered the two small challahs, and the New York DAUGHTER OF RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN was three years old, his mother, Chaya shul, the appropriate greeting was a nod Times. Jane, once the aspiring microbiol- Reisha, a’h, passed away. Reb Dovid’s from those already in attendance and ogist, became a real estate agent. Jane Rabbi Dovid Kviat is a leading Torah aunt helped take care of him after that. then for a tilt of the head to the neigh- and Jack passed each other in shul and teacher. He is a member of the Moetzes bor with hand cupped over mouth as on Central Avenue like the veritable Gedolei Torah and has written over 40 words were exchanged that would ships passing in the night, while passers- scholarly books. He is a rosh yeshiva in result in gaping jaws and raised eye- by hushed dark secrets. On weekdays, the Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn and the Reb Dovid chose to brows, followed by furtive glances at Jane had dinner at her kitchen table mara d’asra, rabbi, of the Agudas Yisroel each of Jack and Jane. watching American Idol and TV shows of Synagogue of 18th Avenue. go to one of the Both Jane and Jack noticed that each that genre. Jack sat alone at Shula’s, Rabbi Kviat is also one of the few sur- Five Towns shul seemed to suddenly Mom’s Pastries, Carlos & Gabby’s, and viving Mir alumni who studied in Litvisha yeshivos display an RCA distributed colorful other such local eateries of haute cuisine. Mirrer and made their way to poster reading “Welcome to Our Shul,” Menus at local takeout eateries and their Kobe Japan, then Shanghai China, instead of the followed by the Hebrew “Hevei mekabel phone numbers became chiseled into through the efforts of Sugihara. kol adam be’sever panim yafot,” fol- Jane and Jack’s minds, as each soon dis- Rabbi Kviat is most famous for his Slominer yeshiva. lowed by the English translation “Greet covered that cooking for one was a near works on the Talmud entitled Succas every man with a pleasant smile.” This impossibility. They sadly bumped into Dovid. In his later years, Rav Kviat has stuck both Jane and Jack as being and ignored each other at singles’ events written commentaries on the Bible and almost as cynical as the dreaded “Arbeit in the metropolitan area largely attended the . They are also called The Torah education system in Macht Frei” of 65 years ago. Jack had by pot bellied and unkempt men and Succas Dovid. Bialystok was unique in that the previously served on the shul’s execu- women in the same unfortunate station Rabbi Kviat’s father was Rav and the yeshiva were both in tive committee, the chair of its legal of their lives. In the wee small hours of Avrohom Eliezer Kviat. Rav Avrohom the same city and under the same edu- committee, the chair of so many events. the night, both Jane and Jack plumbed Eliezer was a student of both the cational system. Most other cities only Jane had headed the Ladies’ Auxiliary, away in the ethereal communal loneli- Slabodka Yeshiva as well as the had a cheder. hosted its welcoming committee, and ness of JDate and Frumster. Novardiker Yeshiva in Europe, although Reb Dovid’s two older brothers con- the chaired countless events. Now, Jane and Jack had arrived; this time in he was a Slonimer Chasid. Rav Dovid tinued after mesivta in the Slominer when they entered shul, they were the ugly unwelcoming underbelly of the had two older brothers, Yaakov and Yeshiva called Toras Chesed. Reb Dovid greeted by the welcome reserved to HIV Five Towns. O Yisroel. Reb Dovid was born in chose to go to one of the Litvisha yeshiv- positive patients. Bialystok, Poland, which was then os instead of the Slominer yeshiva. The Attendance at shul having become so Jay Kaye is the nom de plume of a 27-year Five called . choices were between Kaminetz and painful, Jane and Jack ultimately found it Towns resident; all names have been changed and events described have been modified so as to The Kviat family was extremely Mir. Reb Dovid chose Mir. O more comfortable to spend Friday disguise the identities of all involved and to evenings at home alone. protect the privacy of members of the community.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 15 sleeping bed four amos (six to eight feet) asleep! Get up and walk around!” Yet we from the bed on which he eats. This will all know that after a nice good meal, he ensure that he walks at least this far after most likely will be too sleepy to get up. eating before he goes to sleep. Yet seem- After all, this is where he sleeps anyway. ingly the same question can still be The next time he eats, he’ll be sure to walk raised. Why can’t the debtor use the around before sleeping. But it’s always the same bed for eating and sleeping? To next time. The solution therefore is to overcome the relevant health issue, the leave the debtor with two beds. He’ll be debtor should simply get up after eating, forced to get up before sleeping (assuming Exercise And Davening take a short walk, and return to the same he wants to sleep in the bed where he bed to sleep. The creditor should have a usually sleeps). Humans always need vari- right to take the extra bed. It’s not a ous ploys to get them to follow healthy BY RABBI AVROHOM (113b) states that a debtor must be left necessity. It’s a luxury! habits. Chazal considered this particular SEBROW with two beds. The Gemara questions The debtor would personally rather ploy not a luxury, but a necessity. why an individual needs two beds. The take a meaningful walk from one bed to NNN Some things just never change. When Gemara explains that one bed was used the other, instead of simply encircling his I haven’t written an article in a while. someone joins a weight-loss group, some for eating (people used to recline while only bed. That’s a personal preference! So I would like to discuss an issue that we people ask, “Can’t you just diet by your- eating) and one bed was used for sleep- Rashi seems to answer this by saying, learned a few blatt ago. I have not yet self?” When someone sees a nutritionist, found it discussed at length anywhere. some people ask, “Can’t you just eat There is no connection between the pre- healthy?” The presumption of these ques- vious point I started the article with and tions is that a weight-loss group or a nutri- the following. I do not intend to offer an tionist just facilitate something you can Humans always need various authoritative interpretation of the fol- do on your own. Of course a nutritionist lowing sources, but just to provide some would vehemently disagree. However, food for thought. Further, many of the supposing they indeed only provided ploys to get them to follow meforshim discuss the various philosoph- moral support in one’s quest to be healthy. ical underpinnings of tefillah, in which Wouldn’t that suffice? It is an aspect of healthy habits. (sadly) I am not fully versed. A complete human nature that people often tend to understanding of tefillah would probably be lax in issues relating to their health. Any shed some light on the points that will be possible advantage we can gain to over- raised shortly. come this should be implemented. This is The Mishnah in Bava Metzia (105b) nothing new. Even two thousand years ing. Why was it necessary to have two “This will condition him to get up and says that a renter of a field that was affect- ago, people needed extra encouragement beds? Couldn’t he use the same bed for walk…” Of course you could always tell a ed by a general calamity may deduct from to follow healthy practices. eating and sleeping? The Gemara quotes person he needs to exercise. How many his rent according to the amount of dam- The Gemara in Bava Metzia discusses a statement from Shmuel attesting to doctors have told their patients that they age the field suffered, according to the what material possessions should be left the fact that sleeping immediately after need to exercise? Yet how many actually tanna kama. The two examples of gener- with a debtor when collecting a loan. eating without even taking a walk of a do? (I try not to be too hypocritical in my al calamities offered in the Mishnah are (There is a disagreement among the few steps can be extremely detrimental articles. At least when it comes to exer- strong winds and locusts. How wide- Rishonim as to the precise circumstances to one’s health. cise, I do follow some sort of regimen.) the Gemara is referring to.) A beraisa Rashi explains that one positions the We could tell the debtor, “Don’t fall Continued on Page 18

16 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

MOTHER’S MUSINGS Continued from Front Cover

“Be careful out there in the sun. You’re not 20 years old anymore,” my own mom reminded me. I guess I’m not. Sometimes I actually forget—especially dur- ing the summer, since most of my colleagues at the pool are between 16 and 19 years of age! The best part of my morning summer job is that I always get to keep cool. I make sure to be in the water or wet most of the time and have my trusty water bottle always available. By the time I’m ready to appear at my afternoon job, I’m nice and dry and making sure to don a jacket to brave the air conditioning at the office. There is nothing like a perfect ocean breeze. It’s very therapeu- tic and can diminish your stress level in an instant. As I sit on the boardwalk yet again (thanks to color-war meetings) and look out at the beautiful Atlantic Ocean shore, I remind myself that as stressful as pre-back-to- school is, time flies and in the blink of an eye I am back on the boardwalk the following year! As I muse some more, I real- ize that in the big picture of life I have very little control over how my children succeed in school—no matter what level they are on (remember, readers: my kids range in age from 6 to 21)—how much they succeed in any given moment is based on their own inner motivation. As I sit on my bench looking at the idyllic beach before me, I see two signs each pointing in the opposite direction: “Surf” or “Swim.” To the right is where the surfers are supposed to be, and the left belongs to the swimmers. The surfers like to ride the waves, while the swim- mers often must swim against the current. I guess each person must decide for himself or her- self if they are merely surfing through life or challenging themselves by passing the “deeper water tests” of life. There is that great expression: sink or swim. We can give our children the tools to succeed, but ultimately the choice is theirs. And in terms of the weather report from life: if it’s too hot, get out of the kitchen! O

Phyllis Joy Lubin is an attorney with Rosenfeld & Maidenbaum, LLP, who resides in Cedarhurst with her husband Leonard and six children: Naftali, Shoshana, Rivka, Rochel, Yosef, and Lea. She welcomes your questions and comments at [email protected].

At 5TJT.com you can enjoy articles in 3 ways: 1. Read 2. Print 3. Email

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 17 DAF YOMI INSIGHTS ent scenario is presented by Shmuel. A already establish that where the farmer should be successful. He had no idea Continued from Page 16 landowner tells the renter that he can deviated from the agreed upon-stipula- what the farmer would eventually choose plant whatever crop he wishes to (accord- tion the landowner has a good claim to plant. The only prayer he could offer is spread does the damage have to be to be ing to Tosefos’s explanation). Once again, based upon his prayers? Here the farmer a general one: “Whatever crop is planted considered a general calamity where the most or all of the fields in the valley are deviated by not planting anything! The in my field should be successful.” A spe- farmer may deduct from his rent? consumed by locusts. However, our landowner could simply say, “If you had cific tefillah can always be efficacious for According to Rav Yehuda, most of the farmer was a little lazy and never got planted something, perhaps my prayers anyone, but for Hashem to accept a non- fields in the same valley as the rented around to planting his crops. The farmer on Rosh Hashanah for a successful crop specific prayer, one has to be worthy of a field have to be negatively affected as says that he should be excused from the would’ve been answered. Now that you minor miracle. well. This way the calamity can’t be rental payment, because there was a gen- planted nothing, my tefillah had no So it is true that the landowner could blamed on the renter’s bad mazal, since it eral calamity; even if he had planted a effect.” (As mentioned earlier, having say, “If you had planted any crop, perhaps wasn’t just his field that was harmed. crop, it would have been destroyed. The one’s tefillah accepted is not considered a my general tefillah would have been The Gemara (106a) makes an interest- landowner contends that perhaps minor miracle.) answered.” However, that claim is based ing qualification to the above law. Where upon his being on the madreigah to have the landowner stipulated with the farmer a minor miracle occur for him. And if he that he plant wheat, and the renter plant- is indeed on that madreigah, a simpler ed barley instead, he may not make a claim can be made without invoking his deduction for a general calamity. Even You planted barley instead, so my prayers: perhaps a minor miracle would though all the fields nearby, whether they have occurred for him and his renter’s were planted with wheat or barley, were crops would be saved. attacked by locusts, the farmer may not tefillos on Rosh Hashanah for a So, in the first case, the landowner’s deduct from his rent for his ruined field. claim is based upon his specific prayer, Why? The landowner can say to him: successful wheat crop had no effect. since he thought he knew which crop the True, all the nearby fields were harmed; farmer would plant. In this case, the but I davened on Rosh Hashanah that my landowner’s claim is based upon a minor wheat crop should be successful. If you miracle occurring. had planted wheat, as we agreed, perhaps The troubling question is, where does Hashem would have listened to my tefil- Hashem would’ve performed a minor Here is where things start to get a lit- this requirement in tefillah—that every los and my field would have been spared miracle and his field would have been tle murky. Before I go further, I would tefillah must be specific—come from? from the locusts. You planted barley spared from the general calamity. Now like to explain one point. According to Can’t a person simply daven to Hashem instead, so my tefillos on Rosh Hashanah that the farmer didn’t plant anything, a the Tosefos HaRosh, an example of a to send him parnasah? Must he mention for a successful wheat crop had no effect. minor miracle would not help! The minor miracle is a lone shepherd in the in his prayers the exact nature of his hish- You are responsible for this; therefore, renter is therefore responsible for the Talmudic era being able to fight off a lion tadlus? Must he mention the exact crop you must absorb the loss. loss. Shmuel sides with the landowner from attacking one of his sheep. that was planted? We see from here the power of tefillah. and says the renter must make the full (Generally, it took a group of shepherds I saw a commentary from the Mitzur All the fields in the valley might be rental payment. to fight off a lion.) D’vash quoted in the mesivta Gemara. destroyed, but one’s tefillah can save his Tosefos HaRosh and other Rishonim Tosefos HaRosh and our Tosefos explain I’m not sure who wrote the Mitzur field. As we will demonstrate shortly, this is raise the following question: Why does that since in the current case the D’vash or even when it was written. In not considered to be in the realm of the Shmuel have to explain that the landowner did not tell the farmer what to any case, it seems from what was quot- miraculous; this is just the power of tefillah. landowner’s claim is based upon a minor plant, the landowner could not daven on ed in his name, that he accepts Tosefos A little further in the Gemara, a differ- miracle occurring? Didn’t the Gemara Rosh Hashanah that a specific crop at its simple explanation. He therefore

18 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES raises the following question: HaChayim is not discussing the this philosophically. The pasuk Heavenly decree that all the answered. Second, we also see How can we daven three exact same point as our Gemara. states, “Before they call out, I fields should be destroyed. that a specific tefillah is more times a day in Shemoneh He states that when one davens, will answer; while they are still Someone who wants to be powerful than a general one. So, Esreih that Hashem should one should formulate his tefillos speaking, I will listen” (Yeshayah exempt from that gezeirah regardless of how you interpret bless all the types of crops for in a way that excludes other 65:24). Hashem knows exactly would require a specific tefillah. the sources above, it would the good? That’s not being interpretations. He refers to a what we intend to daven for. At This differs from the Mitzur seem that one should be specif- specific! We should mention Midrash on Esther that relates times, He answers us before we D’vash; according to this expla- ic in his tefillah requests. My specific crops. One answer the following episode: even daven. So why is there a nation, Shemoneh Esreih is not father and rebbi, shlita, thought offered in his name is that a A man was traveling on the need to be so specific in tefillos? an exception because it’s a pub- that this was obvious. Tefillah is prayer which is recited by the road and was tired. He davened My friend HaRav C.W., shlita, lic tefillah; a general tefillah is avodah shebeleiv, and we know public can be non-specific. It to Hashem that Hashem should offered an explanation that lim- the rule for all prayers, public or that more emotional tefillos are is only personal requests that send him a donkey [to ride on or its the specificity requirements private. Our Gemara is the excep- more powerful. Consequently, need to be specific. carry his belongings]. A Roman just mentioned. Perhaps a gener- tion in that instances of gezeiros when a person makes a specific Still, according to this, per- man’s donkey had just given al tefillah usually suffices; it is require specific tefillos. request he can have more emo- sonal requests for parnasah birth and he needed someone to only when there a gezeirah that Be that as it may, all can agree tions behind it and of course it must be specific. I mentioned carry the foal. He made this one is trying to overcome that that we see two powerful points will be more powerful. this Tosefos to a rosh yeshiva and poor Jew carry it; whereupon, one requires a specific tefillah. from our Gemara. First, even in Mazel Tov to all those finish- he pointed out that the Ohr the man lamented that he had In Va’eschannan, there was a a situation where harm is com- ing Bava Metzia this Shabbos! O HaChayim on the first pasuk of not been more specific in his gezeirah that Moshe Rabbeinu ing to others around a person, a Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi Va’eschannan states that Moshe tefillos. He should have davened not be allowed to enter Eretz specific tefillah can save him. chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Rabbeinu’s tefillos were good not just for “a donkey,” but for “a Yisrael. He needed a specific One does not need to be on the Park in West Hempstead and is an outreach professional at JEP of LI. He tefillos because they were spe- donkey to ride on.” tefillah to overcome it. In our level of having a miracle occur can be contacted at cific. However, the Ohr I have trouble understanding Gemara, it seems there was a to have this type of tefillah [email protected].

If a matter eludes you in judgment…then you shall rise and go…to the judge who will be in those days… (Devarim 17:8-9)

Can a person then go to a judge who is not in his days…? This is to teach us that although this judge may not be of the same stature as other judges who preceded him, you must listen to him, for you have only the judge who lives in your time… Shmuel in his generation is like Yiftach in his generation (Shmuel is regarded as the greatest of the prophets, equal to Moshe and Aharon together;Yiftach, who served later, came from a lowly background and was guilty of many failings).

(Talmud, Rosh Hashanah 25b; Rashi)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 19 20 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

leave them on the counter to ripen for a few days or put them in a paper bag to speed things up. Pineapples. Pineapples don’t continue to ripen once they’re picked. You can find a ripe pineapple by choosing one that’s heavy for its size and has a sweet smell, particularly near the stem. Avoid those that have soft spots or dark patches. Choosing The Best Fruit Plums. The best plums are those that yield slightly to pressure and have a deep color and semi-soft tip. Plums that feel For something that seems so simple, orange, don’t worry about color. Oranges firm will ripen in a few days, but avoid buying fruit can be exceptionally com- with green or brown patches can be just those that are rock-hard, as they may have plex. If you look around in any grocery as ripe. For the best flavor, look for a firm, been harvested too soon to fully ripen. store’s produce section, you’ll notice peo- heavy orange with a thin, smooth skin. Strawberries. Strawberries are ripe ple squeezing, sniffing, and examining Papayas. Papayas with a red-orange when they’re a deep red color with a their fruit very carefully. Opinions differ skin are ripe and ready to eat. Those with shiny skin. Avoid buying any with green on what the best way to determine the yellow patches are still fine, but will take or yellow patches, as they’re unripe (and, freshest fruit is. Here is a guide for how to a few days to ripen. Avoid papayas that like pineapples, they won’t ripen any fur- select some of the most common fruits are green or very hard, as they’re not fully ther). Also stay away from very large straw- Plum-Walnut Crisp so you’ll avoid coming home with the ripe and won’t have a sweet flavor. berries; though they look tempting, their wrong pick. Pears. Most pears in the supermarket flavor is often inferior to smaller berries. one side. This is the spot where the water- Apples. A ripe apple will be firm and are not yet ripe, so choose those that are Watermelons. With cut pieces, look melon has been resting while ripening, deeply colored. Depending on the variety, firm, but not extremely hard, and free for deeply colored flesh. When opting for and if it’s not there it means it may have there should also be a slightly rosy tone from dark soft spots. Brown speckles, a whole melon, choose a firm, heavy been harvested too soon. (such as with yellow and green apples). If though, are fine and may signify a better watermelon with a smooth skin, and be you want to find apples with the best fla- flavor. Once you get the pears home, sure it has a well-defined yellow area on Continued on Page 22 vor, buy them during apple season, which spans from late summer to early winter. Bananas. Ripe bananas are, of course, yellow, but it’s okay to buy them while they’re still green if you don’t plan on eat- ing them for a few days. You can refriger- ate ripe bananas to extend their freshness (the peel will darken, but the flesh won’t be affected). Do not put unripe (green) bananas in the refrigerator, though—this will interrupt the ripening process. Blueberries. Look for blueberries that are firm, dry, and brightly colored. Pass up those that are watery, moist, or dull in color. Cantaloupes. Be choosy when picking a cantaloupe, because they’re often picked while still unripe (to avoid dam- age during shipping). You can spot an unripe cantaloupe by its green tones. Instead, look for a cream-colored can- taloupe, with no green patches, which has a slightly soft end opposite the stem. Also, give it a sniff and choose one that smells slightly sweet (but not overly so, which could mean it’s too ripe). Cherries. Look for a bag full of mostly dark, purplish cherries, filled in with a few bright red ones. The darker the cher- ries, the sweeter they will taste. Buy the bag if the cherries look plump and firm. Squishy cherries are usually somewhat flavorless. Grapefruits. Like oranges, don’t judge a grapefruit by its color. Instead, look for heavy, thin-skinned fruits that are firm but slightly springy when pressed. Avoid those with thick, rough skins or overly soft spots. Grapes. Ripe grapes are firm and smooth and should still be attached to the stem. Green grapes with a yellowish cast will be sweeter, as will deeply col- ored red and purple grapes. Kiwis. A kiwi is ripe when it gives slightly when pressed. Those that are too hard will not be sweet, while those that are too soft or shriveled are spoiled. Mangoes. Finding a ripe mango can be tricky, because they can be yellow, red, green, or orange. Those that are ready to eat will usually have a yellow hue and should be slightly soft to the touch. Ripe mangoes also have a sweet aroma near the stem end. Oranges. When looking for a ripe 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 21 THE DISH Continued from Page 21

Plum–Walnut Crisp With Ginger Ice Cream Ingredients: 1 cup coarsely chopped walnuts 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup (packed) golden brown sugar 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp. ground ginger 1/4 tsp. salt pinch of ground nutmeg 6 Tbsp. chilled unsalted butter or butter substitute, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 pint vanilla ice cream (use soy ice cream for a pareve dessert) 1/4 cup finely chopped crystal- lized ginger 2 1/2 pounds plums, pitted and quartered 1/2 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. cornstarch 1 tsp. vanilla extract Directions: Mix first seven ingredients in large bowl. Add butter and rub in with fingertips until small moist clumps form. Cover and refrigerate 20 minutes. (Can be made three days ahead; keep refrigerated.) Microwave ice cream in 5-second intervals just until slightly softened. Mix ice cream and ginger in medium bowl to blend. Cover and freeze. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss plums, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla in bowl. Let stand until sugar dissolves, tossing occa- sionally, about 5 minutes. Transfer plum mixture to 11" x 7" glass baking dish. Sprinkle wal- nut-sugar mixture on top. Bake until topping is dark golden brown and fruit is bubbling, about 40 minutes. Transfer crisp to rack and cool slightly, about 30 minutes. Scoop warm crisp into shallow bowls. Top each with scoop of ice cream.

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

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22 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Justice s”xc Sotomayor And The Jews

BY RABBI AVI SHAFRAN

Reports have it that a popular inscrip- tion of late on coffee mugs and T-shirts is “wise Latina woman.” The reference, of course, is to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor’s contention in a 2001 lecture that “a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn’t lived that life.” The com- ment was much discussed during the hearings that preceded Justice Sotomayor’s confirmation. While pur- chasers of the shirts and mugs are likely only taking ethnic pride in the justice, who is of Puerto Rican ancestry, the com-

All too many Jews imagine that empathy and compassion can only enhance the application of a system of law, not erode it.

ment is worth pondering. It may even hold a thought of particular value to Jews. The idea of a judge’s personal experi- ence influencing—enhancing or degrad- ing—his or her judgment is intriguing. To be sure, a victim of a violent crime might not make the best judge, or an acceptable juror, in the case of someone accused of the same sort of crime. That is why there are judicial recusals and jury disqualifications. But the question of whether our gener- al objectivity is necessarily skewed by who we are is less obviously clear. All of us, after all, are different, not only in our experiences and influences but in our essential psychologies. Must we divorce ourselves from all that in order to evalu- ate anything objectively? Obviously not. The Torah, and for that matter secular jurisprudence, allows for flesh-and-blood people, with lives and experiences, to be judges. And, for that matter, all of us are required daily to make judgments in our personal lives. At the same time, though, judges—and all of us—must consciously endeavor to be sensitive to the possibility of bias in any particular case. The illustrious Rabbi Yishmael, a sage of the Tannaic era, had a sharecropper who, as part of his obliga- tion to the landowner-sage, would bring him a basket of fruit from the rabbi’s land every Friday. The Talmud (Kesubos 105b) recounts how, one week, the worker brought the fruit to him on a Thursday. When Rabbi Yishmael asked why, the

Continued on Page 29 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 23 And always, in our home, there was of any item. We had backup answering laughter. You always made me laugh and machines, backup telephones, and back- then we would remind each other that up flashlights—to name just a few. It was everyone thought of me as the funny one. another of our private jokes. But it was really you who had the better You were kind and good, and generous sense of humor—and that made us laugh to a fault—a people person in the truest even more. sense. You loved buying lottery tickets, but You were wonderful to Freddy, the not for yourself. It was with an eye to man who worked for you, and you My Husband, Arnie Berman, a’h what winning the money would allow appreciated every little thing—never you to do for others—for our children, taking anything for granted. You were As many of you already know, on August because I have an irrational fear of bugs, I for your sister, for my sister, for our nieces the boss and he was the worker, but you 6, I lost my husband, Arnie. Next week I will would scream in panic for you to come and nephews, and for friends as well. treated him as an equal partner. He be back to writing my regular column, kill it. You always did the same thing: you Your greatest pleasure was in giving. became your friend and you cared about That’s The Way It Is. But this week, since would take a tissue and go after it. But If you saw a movie you enjoyed, you him as you cared about everyone. That my readers are my friends, I would like to you didn’t have it in your heart to hurt a were determined that everyone see it. was your nature. share my final thoughts exactly as I deliv- living thing so, even once you had caught That was because you cared about people You spent years driving your truck, and ered them at the levayah. it, you wouldn’t squeeze it. Instead, you in every way possible and always wanted even on the road you were courteous, My darling Arnie, thank you. Thank always giving the other car the right of you for having the most loving heart and way. You were never in a hurry, except for making our years together something erev Shabbos and erev yom tov, when you that were far beyond special. Home has turned into a regular Dagwood Bumstead always been wherever you were. You were kind and good, and and everyone had to jump out of your When someone dies, people often say, way or risk being knocked down! “Oh, no, I never got to say goodbye.” But You loved learning and had the utmost your loved ones did. Because whenever generous to a fault—a people respect for and teachers. And you you were on the phone with any of the took such pride in being a kohen. children or with your sister, you always person in the truest sense. You lost your father when you were made sure to say “I love you” at the close just 11 years old, and even at that tender of every conversation. And that says it all. age you rose to the occasion and said Your pleasure in life was all of us— Kaddish for him—although you were not Gitti and Joe, Helen and Ranan, Robby, fully obligated to do so. And in the Estee and Arnold. And of course our beau- would gently close the tissue around it to share with others anything that gave process, you took upon yourself mitzvah tiful grandchildren, in whom you took and then very slowly open the tissue to you pleasure. Unfortunately, you enjoyed observance, became Orthodox, and never such pride. make sure you hadn’t harmed the thing. most movies and were never considered wavered or looked back. Being Torah- You were my cheerleader and my best And every single time the bug—very much of a film critic. observant meant everything to you. friend; the kindest, most generous soul. much alive—would suddenly scurry You were the quintessential Boy Scout, As young as you were, you embraced You were a gentleman and a gentle man! away and I would scream—but this time because of your insistence on always the opportunity to help your mother, So gentle that you literally couldn’t hurt a at you! It always ended the same way: ter- being prepared. You needed a backup for Gertrude. Together with your sisters, fly. There were times when I would see a rified as I was, I would have to go after everything. I could never send you shop- Renee (may she rest in peace) and Sandra, bug either on the wall or on the floor and, the bug myself. ping, because you wouldn’t buy just one you worked hard to make things right for

24 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES your mother. You three were good to her and good to each other, until the very end. Not many people are privileged to share such devotion. In all areas of your life, your determi- nation was legendary and, had that not been the case, we would not have had you for as long as we did. No one ever had a better husband or father for her children, and I always knew how lucky I was to have you—even when I was shrieking because you had turned down the A/C. You were my foremost concern. I mon- itored your blood pressure, managed your meds, and made your doctor’s appointments and lab appointments. Together with your devoted cardiologist, Steven Siskind, I juggled your Coumadin dosages and, together with your wonder- ful nephrologist, Chaim Charytan, I jug- gled your diuretic dosages. And there were times when I didn’t bother to call them but just adjusted the meds on my own. You used to say that you knew exactly what you were doing when you married a nurse. About a year ago I began to worry that if I wasn’t around, you would never be able to manage your meds. So I decided the time had come to force you to do it on your own. It was complicated and you had a hard time with it. You complained, and in fact you messed up several times. I was tempted to step back in and take charge again, but I felt that wasn’t in your best interest—so I didn’t. But you outfoxed me. You complained to our doctor that you just didn’t have the head for it and that you needed me to continue doing what I’d been doing for the past 20 or more years. Sure enough, less than a week later, I got a phone call from him telling me that I simply had to resume doling out your meds because you simply didn’t have the head for it and it was upsetting you. So of course I relent- ed and never asked you again to do it. You always were smarter than I was. And I still don’t know if the doctor made that call to me on his own or if you put him up to it. You used to joke and say that if any- thing ever happened to me, you wouldn’t last a week—and that everyone would think you died of a broken heart. No hus- band and wife ever joked as much or laughed as often as we did. But now I’m the one with the broken heart, and it’s for real. To know you was to love you—and I never met a person who didn’t. You were pure goodness. You worked hard all your life and never com- plained. And now it’s time to rest. You’re in a much better place, and the children and I have to deal with the loss. I know in my heart that you know in yours that I will love you forever. Hashem nattan v’Hashem lakach. O

Hannah Berman lives in Woodmere. She can be reached at [email protected] or 516-902-3733.

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 25 starting out as naive creatures, we actual- being met. You end up crying, punishing, ly believe that we can have it all. And then and feeling unhappy because the dynam- life happens. Stumbling blocks appear. ics of your relationship have shifted. Loved ones, and people in general, let us So you have the option of spending down. Not everything and not everyone the rest of your married years feeling are truly as they appear to be. We can eas- angry, stuck, and lost—or you can recal- ily find ourselves frustrated and chasing culate. As you discover that one avenue of our tails, rather than “recalculating.” your “being” is blocked, it is important to Recalculate where we need to go. We need to remember that a success- understand that there are still many Recently, I was sitting with my sister Our realization was that our driving ful life is all about recalculating. Let’s look avenues open to you. You can take advan- Dray, engaged in one of our favorite experiences so closely resemble our at a few examples. You get married at the tage of these in order to ultimately arrive activities—trying to sort out all of life’s own lives. How often have we recog- age of 20. You believe that your spouse is at your destination: a place of peace and mysteries—when we had an interesting nized the need to “recalculate,” as we everything he/she said they are. And in satisfaction, a place where you feel as realization that I would like to share discover that the goals we were pursu- fact, at that moment in time, they are though you are being heard. with my readers. ing were somehow evading us? We were actually that person. However, a few When you decide to recalculate, you One of the many things my sister and I approaching them the wrong way—tak- years later, as they mature a bit, experi- begin to explore different paths. Your have in common is a distinct directional- spouse may not be able to sit and ity challenge. Spin us around several schmooze with you for hours the way times in front of our own homes, and it that you would like, but he/she may still might take us a few minutes to find our be there for you in many other meaning- front doors. And so, we were talking When one road is blocked, if you listen ful ways that need to be acknowledged about how our lives have been remark- and appreciated. There is still another ably enhanced by owning GPS systems. closely for your recalculating voice, you road to explore. Perhaps your need to be But even with those friendly voices heard can be satisfied elsewhere. Maybe telling us how far to go and when to turn, you can work on establishing a friend- we still find ourselves often messing up will ultimately discover a new road ship with someone who is better suited and requiring several repeated instruc- than even your spouse at giving you what tions. It seems that hearing the word opening up for you. you crave in this area. It requires a rerout- “recalculate” is a theme that both of us ing of ideas. Recalculate. are very familiar with. Say, for instance, you always wanted to The good news is that eventually we be a doctor. From the time you were a arrive at our destinations. Despite mess- child, you always talked about making ing up repeatedly, going with our ing the wrong turns along the way. But ence more life, and encounter a few chal- people healthy. It was your dream for as instincts (which, sadly, let us down), and ultimately, it is important to listen to lenges, they change. far back as you can remember. In high not quite understanding what “turn left that little voice in our heads that tells us They no longer have the patience they school, you started noticing that you don’t in 400 yards” really means, by hook or that it’s time to recalculate. once had. They can no longer focus on really love your science courses all that crook, we eventually make it. It may take One of the reasons people feel stuck is you or your needs the way they once much. But you try not to pay too much us a half hour longer than we anticipated, that they don’t update their visions of could. They are still basically good, solid attention to this little problem; with the and we may experience some anxiety what a successful life should look like. We individuals, but too distracted to give you help of tutors, you get by. By the time you along the way, but what really matters is all set out with similar needs, expecta- their all. You try talking to him/her, begin college, there is no denying that that we successfully arrive. We get to tions, and goals. We all want it all and, explaining that not all of your needs are your science class may just as well have

26 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES been given in Japanese, for the amount of processing that is going on in your head. Now what? What do you tell everyone? What do you tell yourself after years of believing in a dream? It’s a difficult road- block to encounter. It requires a great deal of rethinking, maneuvering, and totally revamping the plans for your journey. However, when one road is blocked, if you listen closely for your recalculating voice, you will ultimately discover a new road opening up for you. The point is to be open for that voice. Listen closely for it, rather than staying stuck and depressed, feeling as though your life has reached a dead end. Recalculate. You’ve always had this amazing rela- tionship with your one and only daugh- ter. She was everything you hoped she would be, and the joy and nachas she added to your life was immeasurable. For years you had a great thing going. She was your best friend. You spent most days together, shopping, lunching, and taking walks together. Then one day she tells you that she is making aliyah. Are you devastated? You feel as though any chance of a normal life, a happy life, is over. You feel betrayed. You find yourself depressed, angry, and resentful. Is this the road you want to go down for the rest of your life? Is it fair to you, to your daughter, to your husband? Yes, your daughter and best friend are moving far away. This is not what you wanted or expected. But can you recalculate your lifestyle and your expectations? Perhaps you can plan to spend your holidays in Israel. Perhaps you can start saving money to bring your daughter back to New York periodically. Perhaps you can start working on making some other new best friends. Recalculate. Just as our GPS systems are able to always find an alternative way for us to arrive at our destinations, so too can we always search for and locate a path to follow that will enable us to arrive. It may take much longer than we hoped. It may be completely foreign to anything we’ve ever experienced before or even considered. It may be totally out of our comfort zone. But there is always a choice to consider. And sometimes, just as our GPS voice tells us what to do, free of emotional bag- gage, we too need to free ourselves of our own emotional baggage and sentimental attachments in order to stop feeling lost. We must always be ready to recalculate, sometimes again and again, until the proper road presents itself to us. And at that point, may we all be ready to go down that road in a fearless fashion, con- fident that we will arrive. These days, when Dray and I are sitting around discussing a problem that one of us is encountering, we look at one anoth- er, break out in big smiles, and simply say in unison, “Recalculate! O

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

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 27 The foul smell kept the moths away. would also have the added comfort of For fresh water, almost all castles had a heavy blankets, feather mattresses, fur cov- well within their walls. This was essential ers, and tapestries hanging on the walls— as a source of water if someone laid siege at least in later years (as castle life became to the castle and everyone had to stay more developed after the 1200s) to block within the castle walls. What a life. out the dampness and breezes, while resi- Early castle life was far from comfort- dents of lesser status usually slept in the able. The wind blew through the wooden towers and made do with lighter bed- Castles Of Yore Burning in the center of the room shutters in the windows and most people clothes, and they just got used to being I woke up this morning and could would have been a large fire, its smoke slept on benches or on rough mattresses cold most of the time. think of nothing else to write for this turning the air acrid. The only natural light in the great hall on top of hay or straw on Even during the warmest months of the week’s article, so I thought about real- filtered through narrow lancet windows. the floors, which would be replaced on a year, the castle retained a cool dampness estate development in medieval times Here, the nobility ate, drank, and even daily basis—just like in the stalls of a barn. and was very dark—since, in order to keep and how people lived and functioned. It slept. On special occasions, magnificent Insulation as we have today was out the wind and cold during the winter, occurred to me to go back in time and see banquets were held here. The nobleman, unknown. By the 1200s, castle amenities very few windows were included in the how life was for the elite, living in a castle, his family, and important guests sat at the got better and people slept in well-fur- structure of a castle. So, most residents and what, if anything, those huge edifices high table, which was raised above the nished bedchambers and living rooms spent as much time as possible outdoors. have in common with the large houses other diners and covered with a tablecloth that were built inside added wings within There were no bathrooms with baths, show- being built today. So I decided to research of fine linen. (I wonder if this is where we the castle, usually above the main hall and ers, and running hot and cold water. Baths castle construction and life back then. get our dais setup for formal affairs from.) in surrounding wing additions, heated by were taken in transportable wooden tubs, The great age of castles began almost a The great hall was the heart of castle life. large open fires and lighted by candle. so that the summer sun could warm the thousand years ago and lasted for nearly five Inside the castle walls, there would Ironically, when people build large water and the bather, but the tub could be hundred years. The first proper castles built also be comfortable chambers and a homes today, many of them fantasize about moved inside when the weather worsened. in England were introduced by William the chapel. These chapels were extravagantly living in a castle. We dream about the ulti- All in all, I think the only thing I found Conqueror when he invaded England from customized, with stained-glass windows mate lives of luxury, never having to fend enviable after having researched castle his homeland in . William needed to and gold everywhere. A chapel seems to for ourselves, having our every whim taken construction and life were the large rooms show his authority and protect his new have been on the “must have” list of cas- care of, swimming in jewels, or swathed in with the high ceilings and the use of stone. kingdom. The early years of Norman occu- tle-builders back then (much as a beauti- silk. But despite all the glamour we see in Everything else, although beautiful when pation saw a frenzy of castle-building. ful kosher kitchen is today). movies and conjure up in our imaginations, looking at a picture or seeing a castle on a The original castles of stone consisted Castles did not have bathrooms. medieval castle life was not necessarily easy. museum tour, is just that—a beautiful pic- of rectangular towers surrounded by high Instead, people sat on wooden seats in Hardships were plenty, and even the ture totally removed from the realities of stone walls. These towers, also called rooms called “garderobes.” These were wealthiest individuals often found them- life. So, remind me again—why do we all “keeps,” were built with a number of lev- wood or stone benches with holes built selves living in less than adequate quarters. dream about owning our own castles? O els, depending on its size and the wealth over a very long chute, all contained in a There was no central heating, except for Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and is a licensed of its owner. The ground floor would large room (or chamber). Waste from the the central hearth or fireplace, which had real-estate broker and a licensed N.Y.S. mortgage make up the castle’s main hall, also known toilet fell down the chute into the moat. to be tended to be efficient. Of course, that broker with over 20 years of experience, offering full- as the great hall. This “great hall” was the (That moat was definitely not the kind of heat was usually saved for the nobleman service residential and commercial real-estate services (Anessa V Cohen Realty) and mortgaging services equivalent of a combination of our mod- place any of us would want to picnic next and his family. Servants, soldiers, and oth- (First Meridian Mortgage) in the Five Towns and ern-day living room and dining room as to on a nice day). The garderobes (to ers made due with tiny lamps, so they shiv- throughout the tri-state area. She can be reached at 516-569-5007 or via her website, www.AVCrealty.com. well as den with a little kitchen tossed in, “guard” the “robes”) were so called because ered a lot in the cold medieval nights. Readers are encouraged to send questions or with 40- or 50-foot vaulted ceilings. people also stored their clothes in them. The nobleman, his family, and guests comments to [email protected].

28 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Justice Sotomayor beliefs and laws, and, like all laws, Continued from Page 23 Judaism’s are meant to be applied objec- tively. To be sure, there are instances worker explained that he was party to a where certain empathetic concerns can court case before the rabbi that day and yield leniencies. In a kashrus case, for thought that he may as well bring the example, if hewing to the normative fruit then too. Rabbi Yishmael immedi- approach in particular situations will ately recused himself from the sharecrop- result in a great financial loss, it may be per’s case. proper to adopt a more lenient one. Or, if Although the account’s lesson is about a married man goes missing and is sus- the subtlety with which bribery can oper- pected to have died, certain evidentiary ate, personal bias too is a form of bribe. rules are waived for testimony about the Rabbi E. E. Dessler notes that just as a sci- man’s death, so that his wife may remarry. entist cannot draw meaningful conclu- But those leniencies exist within the sions from an experiment unless his law, and when they can be invoked is measuring instruments are true, so are itself the subject of law and precedent. we constrained from making objective Where there is no such recourse, empa- judgments when our psychological thy is insufficient to supplant the law. We instruments are off kilter. Such imbal- are admonished to “not favor the poor ance can take the form of inherent char- man in his dispute” (Sh’mos 23:3). The job acter flaws or prejudice, racial or other- of a judge, as Judge Sotomayor rightly wise. And it, no less than a monetary concluded, is to apply law, not feelings. bribe, “blinds,” as the Torah words it, “the It is common these days to read of eyes of the wise” (Devarim, 16:19). how this or that group or individual is What Judge Sotomayor seemed to say promoting a new, more “sensitive,” “con- in 2001 was that her perspective—as a temporary,” or “caring” approach to woman, a Hispanic, a “wise” person— halachah. makes her a better judge. It, of course, And all too many Jews, falling into the does not. While none of those attributes conceptual trap from which Judge need undermine objectivity, neither do Sotomayor laudably extricated herself, any of them ensure it. imagine that empathy and compassion To her credit, the then-nominee can only enhance the application of a sys- backed away from the implication of her tem of law, not erode it. It’s an enticing earlier statement, saying that “judges place to go, sending out a siren-song for can’t rely on what’s in their heart. They the sensitive. But it is sensitivity to truth, don’t determine the law… The job of a in the end, that matters. That’s the case judge is to apply the law…[not to] apply with man-made laws; all the more so, feelings to facts.” Divine ones. O Which brings us to the Jews. Or, better, © 2009 Am Echad Resources. Rabbi Shafran is to Judaism. director of public affairs for Agudath Israel of The Jewish faith is a system of both America.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 29 the fugitive an atoning exile—atonement know the trials and temptations which in the sense of a remorse which effaces exist outside, or the difficulties of being the crime until he regains his original loyal to one’s faith in a place of exile. The closeness to G-d’s will. Land of Israel is a land where “the eyes of We might then have thought that if the L-rd your G-d are always upon it, from this safeguard, this place of atonement, the beginning of the year to the end of was available in the holy environment of the year.” It is a land of Divine grace. One the Land of Israel, it would be all the cannot judge a man by its standards if more necessary outside its borders that man lives outside its protection. From The Chassidic Masters where it was easier to fall into wrongdo- So judges had to be drawn from the ing. And yet only judges and officers same environment as their defendants. were to be provided beyond the Land of They had not only to know what he had The Judge And The Refugee Israel’s borders—only the agents of the done; they had to experience for them- law, not its refuge. selves the environment which brought In Parashas Shof’tim (Devarim ing verse of our parashah, “You shall set him to it. 16:18–21:9) we read of the cities of judges and officers in all your gates” to Transcendence Or Empathy Rabbi DovBer of Lubavitch (the sec- refuge, to which a man who had killed apply to “all your dwelling places,” even There are two phases in teshuvah, ond Chabad Rebbe) was once giving pri- accidentally could flee, find sanctuary, those outside Israel. It then continues: repentance. There is remorse over what vate audiences, when he interrupted for and atone for his deeds. The Chassidic One might think that cities of refuge has been done, and commitment to act some time before continuing. It tran- masters note that Shof’tim is always were also to exist outside the Land of differently in the future. These are inex- spired that a man who had had an audi- read in the month of Elul; for Elul is, Israel. Therefore the Torah uses the tricably connected. For the only test of ence wanted the Rebbe’s help in setting with regard to time, what the cities of restrictive term “these are the cities of sincere remorse is the subsequent com- right a particularly degrading act he had refuge were with regard to space. It is a refuge” to indicate that they were to be mitment to a better way of life. To be con- done. The Rebbe later said to one of his month of sanctuary and repentance, a provided only within Israel. trite about the past without changing close disciples that one must discover protected time in which a person can Nonetheless, the Sifri says that some- one’s behavior is a hollow gesture. some analogous quality in oneself—on turn from the shortcomings of his past one who committed an accidental This the deeper significance of the law however refined a level—before one and dedicate himself to a new and sanc- killing outside the Land of Israel and that the city of refuge is found only in the can help someone to remedy his sin. tified future. who fled to one of the cities of refuge Land of Israel. For a man could not atone His interruption of the audiences had The Lubavitcher Rebbe analyzes an would be granted sanctuary there. It while clinging to the environment which been to attempt to find in himself this important feature of the cities: they were was the cities themselves, not the peo- led him to sin. He might feel remorse, but point from which he could identify only to be found in the Land of Israel, even ple they protected, that were confined he would not have taken the decisive with the sinner. though the judges and officers who execut- to the Land of Israel. step away from his past. For this, he had It was this principle that lay behind ed Torah law were to be appointed wherev- The fact that the Sifri initiates a com- to escape to the “Land of Israel,” i.e., to G-d’s command to Moshe when the er Jews live. Why does the law extend parison between the “judges and officers” holiness. There, on its sanctified earth, Israelites had made the golden calf: “Go, everywhere, while refuge belongs only to and the cities of refuge indicates that his commitment to a better future could get thee down, for your people have Israel? And what does this imply for the they have a relationship to one another. have substance. dealt corruptly.” For at that moment, month of Elul, our place of spiritual refuge It is this: The judges who applied the law Judges, however, could be appointed Moshe was inhabiting the spiritual in the calendar of the Jewish year? and the officers who executed the sen- outside the Land of Israel. For it is written heights of Mount Sinai, neither eating tences did not aim at retribution, but at in Pirkei Avos, “Do not judge your fellow nor drinking, divorced from the world. A Paradox the refinement of the guilty. And the aim man until you come to his place.” A court The Israelites were degraded through The Midrash Sifri interprets the open- of the cities of refuge was to impose on which sits in the Land of Israel cannot their sin. But by telling him to “go down”

30 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES to “your people,” G-d created a bond between Moshe and the people, on the basis of which Moshe was able to plead on their behalf.

Three Degrees Of Refuge Although all the cities of refuge were to be in the Land of Israel, they were not all in the same territory. There were the three in the Land of Israel prop- er, the Holy Land. Three were in the territories east of the Jordan, where “manslaughter was com- mon” (Talmud, Makkos 9b). And, Le’asid La’vo, in the Time to Come, “the L-rd your G-d will enlarge your borders” and three more will be provided, in the newly occupied land. This means that every level of spirituality has its own refuge, from the relatively lawless Eastern territories to the Holy Land, and even in the Time to Come. And this is true spiritual- ly as well as geographically. At every stage of a person’s reli- gious life, there is the possibility of some shortcoming for which there must be refuge and atone- ment. Even if he never disobeys G-d’s will, he may still not have done all within his power to draw close to G-d. This is the task of the month of Elul. It is a time of self-exam- ination, when each person must ask himself whether what he has achieved was all he could have achieved. And if not, he must repent, and strive towards a more fulfilled future. Businessman and scholar—he who has lived in the world and he who has spent his days under the canopy of the Torah—both must make Elul a time of self- reckoning and refuge. It is the way of the Western world to make Elul—the month of high summer—a time for vacation from study. The oppo- site should be the case. It is above all the time for self-exam- ination, a time to change one’s life. And the place for this is the city of refuge in the “Holy Land,” which, in the geography of the soul, is a place of Torah. Each Jew should set aside Elul, or at least from the 18th onwards (the last 12 days, a day for each month of the year), or at any rate the days when Selichos are said, and make his refuge in a place of Torah. A refuge is a place to which one flees: that is, where one lays aside one’s past and makes a new home. Elul is the sublima- tion of the past for the sake of a better future. And it is the neces- sary preparation for the bless- ings of Rosh Hashanah, the promise of plenty and fulfill- ment in the year to come. O

From Torah Studies (Kehot 1986), an adaptation of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s talks by Britain’s Chief Rabbi, Dr. Jonathan Sacks. Courtesy of Chabad.org. Find more Torah articles for the whole family at www.chabad.org/parshah. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 31 cult life test. When a person is given sta- growth of wealth, the Torah warns a king tus and accord, it is natural for him to feel of Israel not to amass too much of it. He different, apart from and above the rest of may be a great man, and he might be able the human race. Power, too, is a grave to keep his sense of balance despite many test. When a person feels that he can con- temptations, but wealth will almost cer- trol the destiny of other people, he runs tainly lead to arrogance, and it is some- the risk of feeling self-important, signifi- thing that even a man as great as a king in cant, and mighty. However, these are situ- Israel will not be able to resist. ations that a person can deal with. In our world. This concept has great The Shmuz On The Parashah The antidote to honor is to remember relevance to us. Whether or not we are where I came from and where I am going. wealthy as compared to others, the reali- If I Were A Rich Man to sit down in his presence. Additionally, I must understand that today I am being ty is that we enjoy great berachah living R’ BEN TZION SHAFIER the king himself must guard his kavod. given great honor, but it will pass quick- in the 21st century. Today, we all enjoy The king isn’t allowed to stand up for any ly—very quickly. Today they sing my material possessions, luxuries, and oppor- “Place upon yourself a king… He shall man in public. He isn’t allowed to praises; tomorrow they will forget my tunities that were unheard of in previous not greatly increase silver and gold for address anyone else by an honorific title. name. That is the way of the world. generations. himself… So that his heart does not If he commands a person to leave the Power is also something that a person One of the great dangers of living in become haughty over his brothers…” room and that man refuses, the king has can learn to deal with. As I stand here now, these times is the sense of independ- —Devarim 17:15–20 the right to have him executed. I control the destiny of others. But do I? Do ence. “I am young, strong, and healthy. I The Torah commands us to appoint a At the same time, a king is expected to I really have power? I can’t even control can forge my own way. I don’t need any- king to rule over the Jewish people. remain humble. The Torah isn’t afraid whether I will be alive tomorrow. When I one; I can make it on my own. I am However, there are various warnings that the great honor accorded to him will lay my head on the pillow this evening, it independent.” given to the king. He should not acquire bring him to arrogance. He is capable of is not in my control to will myself alive While on one level this sense is central too many horses, he should not take too maintaining his sense of balance by tomorrow. When my time is up, it’ll be to being an effective human being, it is also many wives, and he should not amass too understanding that honor isn’t due to over, and there is nothing I can do to fraught with danger. A person must remain much gold and silver. him, but rather his position. He is still a change that. The big, powerful, mighty me clear-headed in his understanding of Who The Da’as Zekeinim explains that each mortal human. As a servant of Hashem, can’t even control whether I exist or not. is really in charge here. I am not the master of these excesses is singled out to protect he plays his role as everyone else does. In that sense, honor and power are of the universe, nor even the master of my the king from a particular danger. The So, if the king is capable of maintain- potentially dangerous, but a person can destiny. I am dependent. I depend on my danger of amassing too much wealth is ing his humility despite the extraordi- be humble despite them. Creator for my daily bread, my health, my that it leads to arrogance. nary honor accorded to him, why is the The danger of wealth. Great wealth is success, and my existence. With this under- Why is money more dangerous than Torah fearful that he will become arro- different. Wealth brings a person to a standing, a person can enjoy great honor and power? This Da’as Zekeinim is gant if he amasses wealth? It’s as if the much more dangerous sense of himself— berachah and still remain humble. difficult to understand because, as the Torah is saying, “Honor he can handle. a sense of independence. “I am rich! I When a person is humble, the rest of Rambam explains, we are obligated to But wealth? Impossible!” don’t need anyone! I don’t need my wife. his character traits naturally fall into treat a king with great honor; it is vital Why would it be so difficult for him I don’t need my children. I don’t even place. But when a person is arrogant, the for his effectiveness as a ruler. As a result, not to be conceited if he acquired need Hashem! I can buy and sell the rest of his middos are out of balance as any individual, even the greatest talmid wealth? The answer to this question is whole world!” well. An arrogant person becomes angry chacham or navi, who walks into the based on a deeper understanding of the This seems to be the answer to the easily. A humble man doesn’t. An arrogant chambers of a king must bow down, full human personality. Da’as Zekeinim. Because this sense of face to the ground. No person is allowed The antidote to honor. Honor is a diffi- independence is almost a natural out- Continued on Page 34

32 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES child education, , pre- $16 Million To Promote Retail kindergarten and primary education, spe- Services In The Rockaways cial education, and disciplines such as New York City has announced that a math, reading, science, social studies, and planned supermarket and retail shop- Spanish language. ping mall construction project beside • Students with a rabbinic degree can the Arverne by the Sea residential com- begin the efficient TEAM three-step plex in the Rockaways has been select- process and achieve New York State ed to receive $16 million in financing. teacher certification in special education. This money will be distributed in the Earn A TEAM Degree ing experience. TEAM has been able to utilize up to 80 form of tax-exempt bonds, funded by An innovative New York-based educa- TEAM also provides personal BA edu- credits of an individual’s rabbinic degree the federal stimulus program, as part of tion program will allow students with cational evaluations to help design an toward a traditional accredited BA. The the Recover NYC program targeted at bachelor’s degrees from , includ- individualized curriculum tailored to TEAM three-step process is the least “distressed areas.” ing those in Talmudic law or rabbinic academic, professional, and personal expensive and quickest route for any “I am glad that the city government studies, to earn an accredited master’s in interests. For those seeking special-edu- holder of a yeshiva degree looking to get has responded to my calls for increased education at significant tuition dis- cation certification, TEAM accepts up state-certified. funding towards the Rockaways,” com- counts. All classes are separate for men to 80 credits from a rabbinic degree, • Women’s seminary graduates who do mented Councilman James Sanders Jr. and women. without any essays or CLEP required, not hold a BA can enter a fully accredited “This is just the first step of many need- Many young yeshiva men and women offering classes to meet the prerequi- MS Ed. degree program if they have proof ed towards outfitting the Rockaways complete their college degrees, earning a site course requirements for New York of three or more years of teaching expe- with 21st-century services, as well as 21st- Talmudic law or rabbinical undergradu- State certification. rience. They will be required to produce century jobs. I am also glad that my sup- ate degree. Unfortunately, these hard- Through TEAM Education Services, a teaching portfolio, supervised by an port of Barack Obama, as the first elect- earned and meaningful degrees are not students can choose to get their higher- expert university portfolio coach. The ed official in Queens to do so, has result- formally recognized for entry into the education degree through university part- career portfolio is a compilation of evi- ed in real change for our district, as this majority of accredited education master’s nerships in one of several ways: dence that documents the attainment of project would not have been possible programs, leaving these students with • Students with a rabbinic BA or a tra- a level of knowledge, experience, and without President Obama’s stimulus limited options for educational advance- ditional BA can enter an accredited MS expertise that is appropriate for entry package,” he said. ment. The TEAM program is designed to education program without any other into the accredited master’s program in Arverne by the Sea, upon completion, maximize each student’s time and poten- prerequisites and can complete their MS education. will include 2,300 residential units, sever- tial in a comfortable environment. Ed. degree in approximately 11–12 TEAM workshops employ a rolling al apartment buildings and condomini- To earn New York State certification in months. Students can take seven accred- admissions policy, and new students can ums, a YMCA, a school, a transportation special education, TEAM—Teacher ited online courses and five TEAM educa- sign up to take advantage of the pro- center, and ten acres of parkland. Education Assessment and tion workshop classes, available at loca- gram’s flexible times and locations. TEAM The proposed financing still has to be Management—provides discounted tions in Queens, Brooklyn, and Long also gives participants personalized atten- approved by the city’s Capital Resource degree programs at flexible times for Island. Students can complete the TEAM tion at a level not available in most uni- Corporation, which is administered by working professionals. Graduates of education workshop classes at home via versities and colleges. the New York City Economic women’s seminaries who are currently correspondence. Students can choose Students can enroll online by going to Development Corporation. The CRC is set teaching but do not have bachelor’s one of 15 different concentration areas www.GoTeamEd.com or by calling the to hold a public hearing on the matter on degrees are also eligible for a separate within the master’s degree, including cur- TEAM office at 718-925-3839. Mr. Aaron Thursday, September 10, starting at 10:00 accredited master’s program if they can riculum and instruction, early literacy Braunstein, the program director, can be document three years or more of teach- education, elementary education, gifted reached at 516-528-8871. O Continued on Page 35

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 33 The Shmuz Continued from Page 32

individual doesn’t feel the pain of others, but a humble man does. The pivot point of all good middos is humility. Just as humility is the center of a person’s character develop- ment, so too is it the corner- stone of his avodas Hashem. The Chovos HaLevavos explains that just as a master needs a servant, a servant needs a master. One cannot exist without the other. Any sense of arrogance is a denial of my dependence upon Hashem. It revokes my status as a servant of my Master. This sense of dependence upon one’s Creator brings a person balance and internal happiness, because he is in sync with his self. He doesn’t need to self-inflate and create illusions about his worth. Ultimately, it leads a person to success in this world and the World to Come. O

The Shmuz on the Parsha, a compilation on all of Chumash, is coming out iy’H in time for this Rosh Hashanah! For more information please visit theShmuz.com or your local sefarim store.

34 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS If you are in the market for a nearby Continued from Page 33 getaway, then Kutsher’s is the perfect place for you and your family. To find a.m., in the offices of the NYCEDC (110 out more, visit www.Kutshers.com or call William St., 4th floor, New York NY 10038). 1-800-431-1273. O For more information about the public hearing, call the CRC at 212-312-3598 or Catch The Magic: Pure Tiyulim visit www.nycedc.com. O Sukkos At Disneyland Resort By Rochelle Maruch Miller Kutsher’s Has It All You don’t have to wish upon a star to It’s a tribute to the Kutsher’s Country make your dreams come true. Pure Club’s history, family management, and Tiyulim America has created a magical Sukkos experience that is sure to enchant young and old. As a leading international event man- agement company that specializes in glatt kosher events and international vacation tours, Pure Tiyulim is unsur- Aerial view of Kutsher’s Hotel. passed in orchestrating every tour to per- fection, ensuring that the demand for quality glatt kosher travel with impecca- strength that in the changing market- admired for their beauty, and its sports ble standards of kashrus is met. place of resort hotels, Kutsher’s is still facilities are unmatched anywhere in For their upcoming tour, Pure Tiyulim running strong and busy throughout the the Catskill Mountains. has chosen the Disneyland Resort in summer and for most of the year. Mark Kutsher, owner and operator of southern California as the venue to The hotel is glatt kosher throughout the resort, is excited about the future. deliver a complete and unforgettable the year, and aside from its other great “We’ve received great feedback from our Sukkos experience. This is the stuff of amenities, Kutsher’s has always been guests this summer,” he said, “and we are which lifetime memories are made; well known for its great food. The hotel looking forward to an exciting holiday accommodations at a luxury resort, has undergone a multimillion-dollar season.” As always, the hotel will feature gourmet glatt kosher cuisine, a huge renovation, including a renovation of Cantor , the internationally sukkah built on the Disney Resort most of the hotel’s sleeping rooms, renowned chazzan, on Rosh Hashanah Dream Lawn, lectures by renowned which are comfortable and spacious. and Yom Kippur. Kutsher’s will once scholars and rabbis, a discounted rate on The sprawling grounds of the hotel, again feature the world’s largest sukkah Kutsher’s lobby. located in Monticello, New York, are over the upcoming Sukkos yom tov. Continued on Page 36

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 35 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS While Tamarack Camps has assisted Continued from Page 35 families in getting children to camp since its founding as the Fresh Air tickets to the Disneyland park, and two Society in 1902, the summer of 2009 set amazing concerts at the Disneyland Park new records by providing $1.1 million in Festival Arena starring Lipa. financial aid to half of the children A portion of the proceeds from the going to its summer camps. concerts will benefit Chai Lifeline, the For the first time in its history, the international children’s health support Michigan-based Jewish camping agency organization. Chai Lifeline’s network of expended more than $1 million in finan- two dozen free programs and services cial aid—an amount greater than any provide emotional, social, and financial other Jewish camp in the world—in order support for more than 3,400 children to fulfill its mission of never denying a with cancer or other life-threatening ill- Jewish child the opportunity to attend nesses or debilitating chronic conditions. camp because of financial circumstances. “We are delighted that Pure Tiyulim Roughly half of Tamarack’s estimated ©

chose the Disneyland Resort as the site D $1.1 million in aid has been made possible i s n e for Sukkot 2009, and we look forward y by a grant from the of to providing families with our world- Lipa and Mickey team up for Pure Tiyulim. Metropolitan Detroit, the umbrella plan- renowned Disney guest service,” ning and oversight organization for explained Robert Donahue of Detroit’s Jewish community. The remain- Disneyland Resort sales and services. machshir for the Pesach with the Chevrah planning and following through, make der of the aid needs come from contribu- “Families will discover that the 500-acre tour and led its team of mashgichim. this a unique combination of strengths tions to Tamarack’s annual campaign— resort is more than just theme parks. Under Rabbi Eidlitz’s strict supervision, that the guests benefit from throughout “Send a Kid to Tamarack.” Although this We are famous for our safe, family consulting chef Patrick Heymann will the program. This past year we were year’s campaign for a Jewish camp experi- entertainment, and for storytelling and create gourmet dishes representing both most fortunate to team up with Chef ence got a big boost through an inaugural creating immersive experiences. A great traditional Jewish flavors and modern Patrick. His constant ‘can do’ attitude patron event that raised $125,000, there is advantage of having Sukkot 2009 at the fusion options. and high respect for our halachic needs still a need for additional donations. Disneyland Resort is that families stay- “I have had the distinct pleasure of combined with culinary skill is hard to “One of the special things about our ing at our beautiful hotels are just steps working with Mr. Chaim Kaminetsky match. We look forward to a great agency is that it has touched so many lives away from all of our wonderful festivi- and Mr. Tim Webster over the past few Sukkos, where the guests will be able to over the last 107 years,” said Shelley Hutton, ties and Disney magic.” years,” said Rabbi Eidlitz. “In all areas combine ruchniyus with gashmiyus and Tamarack’s board president. “Multiple gen- If what you have read thus far evokes pertaining to halachah, be it kashrus, enjoy the yom tov with their families in erations of Jews have made lifelong friends the signature style and stellar service of eiruvin, tzenius, etc., I have always been a most unique location.” and strengthened their Jewish identities Pesach with the Chevrah, it is with good asked to do whatever is the highest level For further information, please visit through the fun and informal education reason—the tour and concert are being without any hint of a direction that may www.puretiyulim.com or e-mail that occurs at Tamarack.” coordinated under the expert guidance of help the program financially. Mr. Chaim info2puretiyulim.com and watch the Roughly one-third of Tamarack’s Chevrah founder Chaim Kaminetsky. Kaminetsky’s devotion to K’lal Yisrael magic begin! O campers typically receive financial aid Pure Tiyulim’s high standard of kashrus and ehrlichkeit, and Mr. Tim Webster’s each summer, according to Jonah Geller, will be supervised by Rabbi Eliezer to pleasing the guests and doing the Tamarack Camps Provides $1.1 the agency’s executive director. This ratio Eidlitz, who has served as the rav ha’- right thing, along with his talent of Million in Financial Aid has increased to more than half in the

36 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES last few years because of the distressed economy in Michigan. Geller says send- ing a child to camp benefits a family in so many ways, especially in difficult times. “Most of our financial aid applications include a letter from parents indicating the value of a Jewish camp experience for their children,” said Geller. “Many of this year’s letters focus on accommodating a family’s basic needs of food, medical care, and housing. A number of parents have informed us that the great summer expe- rience for their kids also provides them as parents a much-needed respite and time to figure out their next step regarding tough life situations such as their jobs and household financial stress.” Tamarack Camps, established by the Fresh Air Society, provides enriching Jewish camping experiences for children Ohel Bais Ezra campers. Tamar Sicklick and families, independent of financial ability, building a vibrant community. To the first time this November. To prepare ences, Ohel provides the necessary spe- that finish line on November 1, I’ll be learn more, visit www.tamarack for the big day, TeamOhel’s members are cialized services for these children and imagining those happy campers. They’ll camps.com. O training hard and breaking barriers every pays full camp fees for children in the fos- be the real winners.” week: Tamar just reached another mile- ter care program or living in the Ohel TeamOhel continues to train—and TeamOhel To Race Toward Success stone, completing her first 18-mile run. As domestic-abuse shelter. There is no gov- there’s still time to join them! Runners At NYC Marathon, November 1 part of her TeamOhel training, she’s ernment funding for many of Ohel’s camp who have already secured a place in the Whenever they cross the finish line, already finished two half-marathons. programs, so initiatives such as TeamOhel New York City Marathon on November 1 Tamar Sicklick and her teammates will be Camp is about breaking barriers, too— are essential to ensure these programs are welcome to become part of TeamOhel winners when they run in the New York an opportunity for children coping with will be available. Most Ohel campers and support the team’s sponsorship goals. City Marathon this November 1. Tamar is challenging circumstances to enjoy the attend camps on full scholarships. The rest of us can stay in the running, too, a member of TeamOhel and, with spon- special experiences every child deserves “I am proud to be running for by sponsoring a TeamOhel member or sorships from family and friends, she’s in the summertime: time outdoors, new TeamOhel,” said Sicklick, a resident of making a contribution. running to support Ohel Bais Ezra’s many friendships, and fun activities with other Woodmere, who is an early-childhood Gifts of all sizes are needed to support summer and winter camp programs. children. Ohel’s Bais Ezra Summer Camp teacher, a sports enthusiast, and an the team and raise the funds to send Sponsorships for TeamOhel runners will program provides day camp and sleep- active and generous community mem- deserving children to summer camp. help make it possible for children with away camp opportunities to children ber, “It’s exciting to be doing something Major sponsorship levels include featur- disabilities and children living in foster from all over the United States who to challenge myself and support such an ing company logos on Tamar’s marathon care or in domestic-abuse shelters to might otherwise miss out on all the fun important cause at the same time. I’m website (where Tamar shares her enthu- attend Ohel camps. and excitement of summer. really grateful to the family and friends TeamOhel is excited to participate for From sports to special Shabbos experi- who are sponsoring me. When I head for Continued on Page 38

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 37 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Friendship Circle were the carnival’s spe- Continued from Page 37 cial guests and were given the opportuni- ty to participate in a carnival like no siasm and tracks her progress), print ads, other. They shared in the laughter and and radio announcements. For more fun together with their shadows. information about TeamOhel, or to After a successful first year, the beachside sponsor Tamar and her team members, communities of Long Beach, Lido Beach, visit www.ohelfamily.org/teamohel or and Atlantic Beach look forward to next call 718-972-9338. O year’s Second Annual Summer Carnival. For more information about the BACH’s out- BACH Carnival reach and children’s programs, visit A Smashing Success www.BachYouth.com or call 516-897-2473. O The BACH’s first annual summer carni- val was a smashing success. Great weath- Minkoff Locksmith LLC: er brought great crowds from throughout The Name You Can Trust Long Island and Queens to the Long By Rochelle Maruch Miller Beach event. Minkoff Locksmith has earned a ster- Children from Ohel Children’s Home ling reputation for providing complete and autistic children from Chabad’s security solutions. With integrity and Part of the Friendship Circle group clowning around with the stilt walkers. unsurpassed service as its hallmark, Minkoff Locksmith has been concerned with your security needs since 1980. As one of the most trusted licensed and insured locksmith services in the com- munity, they uphold the highest stan- dards of quality. As a master locksmith and veritable “idea man,” Yisrael Minkoff is peerless in creating the perfect security solution for any situation. Bring him any challenge and he will meet it with alacrity. This is precisely why a prominent yom tov program director consulted Yisrael to solve a problem several years ago. The hotel’s electronic keys could not be used on Shabbos and yom tov; was there any option that would be both halachically permissible and acceptable to the hotel owners? Proceeding to meet this challenge Face-painting at the carnival. Yaacov Buff racing through the boulder dash. with his signature blend of creativity

38 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES and enthusiasm, his solution was a danger of invasion. “A panic room also highly skilled and qualified. the safes. They waited ten years to carry unique and specially designed Shabbos affords peace of mind to homeowners “Several years ago, there was a rash of out their plan. Baruch Hashem, in all the lock that would offer maximum security while on vacation, as it provides the burglaries in Flatbush,” he explained. years that Minkoff Locksmith has been without rendering any damage to the ultimate in safekeeping for valuables.” “The burglars knew exactly where to go in business, it has never happened to existing lock, much to the satisfaction As a respected member of the com- and where the safes were located. All of any customer. We are committed to our and amazement of the aforementioned munity and a ben Torah who conducts the home invasions occurred within a customers’ safety, satisfaction, and confi- program director and hotel owner—as his business strictly in accordance with radius of a few blocks, and the M.O. was dentiality. We send our safes and well as the hundreds of guests. So suc- halachah, Yisrael Minkoff protects always the same. It turned out that all of installers in unmarked cars, and our cessful was the Minkoff Shabbos Lock every client’s confidentiality and safety. the individuals who had committed the employees work around the schedules that other hotel owners, tour promoters, Safes are installed exclusively by crimes had been employees of a certain and program directors contacted Yisrael shomer Shabbos personnel who are locksmith company and had installed Continued on Page 40 from venues near and far to place their orders. To date, Minkoff Locksmiths has shipped the customized magnets to Virginia, Puerto Rico, and throughout the United States. “Already 5,000 people have used my lock,” he said. And he con- tinues to be inundated with orders for his unique concept. Yisrael and his wife were on vacation when he was presented with yet anoth- er challenge. “Someone doing work for a major celebrity had called. A situation had occurred that warranted adding a panic room to the luxury residence; would I be available to create one?” Upon the Minkoffs’ return to New York, Yisrael drove to the celebrity’s resi- dence, where he appraised the security situation. Coordinating with the indi- vidual who had called him, Yisrael creat- ed and brought this project to fruition, assuring the safety and well-being of the world-famous personality. Yisrael explains that a panic room is not mere- ly an option reserved for international celebrities, but rather an important option that should be considered by anyone who owns a luxurious home and wishes to protect his family and personal property from the potential

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 39 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Five Towns Conference Center was already Continued from Page 39 generating buzz among local business own- ers and residents. Centrally located in of our customers. We do our security Inwood, this newest addition to our com- and staff installation work when the munity offers office and conference-room nanny, maid, and other house personnel rentals amid a Midtown atmosphere. As are off premises, thereby assuring com- Five Towns residents, Ian and Jacob plete confidentiality. We go the extra Rubenstein saw the need to create a venue mile for our customers to provide them that would serve local business owners and with impeccable, seamless service.” professionals who prefer not to commute Serving the Five Towns as well as the into the city but require a highly profession- five boroughs of New York City with dis- al environment in which to meet prospec- tinction, Minkoff Locksmith’s services tive and existing clients. include gates and fences, locks, safes, The building’s attractive red exterior security and fireproof doors, and creation makes a great and lasting first impression of master-key systems. and beckons the visitor to enter. For securi- Founded by Yisrael’s father, Minkoff ty, visitors must be buzzed in to gain entry. Locksmith is a shomer Shabbos, family- Once inside, the state-of-the-art, tastefully owned, and customer-oriented business appointed environs provide the ideal set- with a multi-generational client roster. ting for conferences, client meetings, and Whether you need innovative locksmith running a successful and prosperous busi- services for your home, business, or The Apple Bank Benjamins, this season’s first-place team. Accompanying the team are Jack ness. Office cubicles are available for daily, institution, Minkoff Locksmith caters to Tarzik, Director of Avnet; Rabbi Jeremy Fine, Assistant Director at the Woodmere Campus; and weekly, or monthly rental. The center also all your security needs. Yisrael Minkoff Rabbi Joey Werner, Head of Chinuch and Sports Commissioner at the Woodmere Campus. features Internet access, phone service, and is a consummate professional who a fax and copy room. views his work as a labor of love. “I love As the Conference Center’s president and the challenge of going to a project and Softball Standings Wins Losses Ties director of sales and marketing, respectively, devising a solution that will make the Apple Bank Benjamins.1661 Ian and Jacob bring their business acumen customer happy.” Tito’s Hairstyling Hustlers 15 6 2 to their new endeavor. “Our plans are to For further information, please call 718- Sharmel Cookers 13 6 4 make this a busy and lucrative Five Towns 998-9881. Protect your loved ones and Burgers Bar Sweet Chilies 11 10 2 center that will greatly increase business in yourself with confidence. O Fitwize 4 Kids Flyers 10 10 3 our area.” The father and son team, who also Swim and Scuba Aqua Men 9131 rent out air cargo space in another building, Avnet’s Sports Fraternity: Gourmet Glatt Kugels 6152 have a vested interest in our community The Woodmere Campus Warren Levi Karate Kamakazes 4181 and hope to revitalize and attract business. Another banner softball season has We spoke to several local business come to an exciting end at the Boys owners who have already availed them- Sports Fraternity of Avnet’s Woodmere for the players. The teams are eagerly Business Smarts: selves of the Conference Center’s servic- Campus. Avnet would like to thank the awaiting next year, when the action con- Five Towns Conference Center es. Names have been changed to protect sponsors, who lent their names to their tinues at HALB’s Avnet Country Day By Rochelle Maruch Miller their confidentiality. respective teams and provided jerseys School! O Months prior to its recent opening, the Alan S. has been renting office space since

40 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES the Conference Center’s recent opening. “I launched my business about a year ago,” he said. “Because of economic constraints, I started out in my own home. It seemed to be a good idea at the time; my wife is a resident at a nearby hospital, and operating a home- based business let me be in proximity to our children while she is on call. “But I didn’t realize how quickly my busi- ness would grow. Baruch Hashem, I’m grate- ful for every new client and account; but neither my wife nor I realized how difficult my working at home would prove to be, with the constant distractions and interrup- tions. I needed a professional business set- ting where I could meet with clients. Working from home was no longer a viable option, but neither was renting office space in Midtown and commuting. I wanted to be situated as close to home as possible, so that I could be minutes away from my children. Harriet Mitchell Leatha Duhon “When I heard about the new confer- ence center I was elated. It offers me the best of both worlds. I’ve already used the Woodmere Rehabilitation and Health Care Everybody looks forward to the excitement director of marketing and community conference room for several presentations, Center. The Hempstead Animal Shelter also that is generated by the pet visits. relations at Woodmere Rehab. Kelly can and it helped make a great impression on brings cats and dogs once a month to visit Among the dogs who visit regularly is be seen in the accompanying photos each occasion. Since the center opened, it the residents at the facility. These visits are a feisty five-year-old Maltese named with some of the residents who love to really is generating more business in our extremely therapeutic for the residents. Kelly who belongs to Leba Sonneberg, hold and pet her. O area. I take clients to lunch in our local restaurants, as do other business owners who rent there, and these clients often tell me that they can’t resist shopping in our local stores on their way to their destina- tions. I recommend and encourage anyone who is seeking a Manhattan-like business setting that is just minutes away from home and surprisingly affordable to con- sider the Five Towns Conference Center.” For additional information about rental options, please call 516-902-8686. O

Pet Therapy At Woodmere Rehab Many local dog owners are kind enough to bring their pets in to visit the residents at

Ruth Taub

Barbara Goldstein 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 41 You shall not plant for yourself an asherah, any tree, near the altar of G-d (Devarim 16:21) This verse includes two prohibitions: not to plant an ahseirah (idolatrous) tree anywhere, and not to plant any tree, or build any tree on the Temple Mount. (Sifri; Rashi) To seek to beautify the Holy Temple by planting trees around it is an insult to the holiness of the place, whose beauty derives from itself and not from external “landscaping.” This also explains the Talmud’s statement (Sanhedrin 7a), that the reason the Torah places this law immediately following the law regarding the appointment of judges is to teach us that “whoever appoints an unqualified judge it is as if he planted an asheira near the altar.” Often, we see people appointed to positions of authority because of their external appearance, charm, and oratorical prowess, instead of their knowledge, integrity and fear of Heaven… (Even HaAzel)

Justice, justice shall you pursue (Devarim 16:20) By virtue of three things the world endures: law, truth, and peace. (Ethics of the Fathers 1:18) The three are one and the same: if the law is upheld, there is truth and there is peace. (Jerusalem Talmud,Taanis 4:2) A judge who judges with absolute truth becomes a partner with G-d in creation. (Talmud, Shabbos 10a)

42 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Secular Court Interference In Beis Din Decision

A New York State lower court deci- brief states, “would lead to the very ous precedent that could lead to The Orthodox groups’ brief was sion overturning a beis din decision in ‘excessive entanglement between unconstitutional interference by the drafted principally by an Agudath the case of a rebbi dismissed by a yeshi- government and religion’ that the civil courts in religious matters. Israel legal staffer, Chaim Kusnitz, va is being appealed by the rebbi. Establishment Clause was designed The Orthodox organizations’ brief under the direction and guidance of Agudath Israel of America, together to avoid.” takes pains to emphasize that they Agudath Israel associate general coun- with the Union of Orthodox Jewish The brief submitted by the are not advocating on behalf of sel Rabbi Mordechai Biser. Congregations of America and Torah Orthodox Jewish organizations either party to the dispute with Rabbi Biser stresses the long-range Umesorah, the National Society of argues that the court should not have respect to their underlying claims. implications of the lower court deci- Hebrew Day Schools, have filed an ami- used secular law to judge a decision But, it states, “We are compelled to sion should it be affirmed by the cus curiae (“friend of the court”) brief in that the parties agreed should be offer our views in the case at bar due appellate court. “If the decision is support of the appeal. based on Jewish law. It explains fur- to our deep concern that the allowed to stand,” he says, “the princi- The appeal does not address the ther that secular courts cannot con- ruling…if upheld, will have ramifica- ple it propounds—that a secular court merits of the dispute itself but centers can vacate an order of a beis din entirely on the fact that the lower whenever the court believes that that court issued a ruling on the matter at order is at odds with what secular all. Since the case had already been legal principles would dictate—would adjudicated by a beis din, the The Orthodox groups contend undermine the ability of New York’s Orthodox groups contend, the state rabbinic courts to hear cases and ren- court system had no business examin- der decisions.” Each beis din, he adds, ing it, much less issuing a ruling, as it the state court system had no would now need to not only apply did, asserting that the beis din’s deci- Jewish law, but would also need to be sion was “irrational.” business examining the case. concerned about how “rational” their In their brief, the Orthodox groups decision would appear to secular explain that since the rebbi had court judges unfamiliar with Jewish brought his complaint before the beis law. Litigants unhappy with the rul- din, and the school had submitted ing of a beis din, he continues, “would itself to arbitration in that Jewish stitutionally inquire into, much less tions that extend far beyond the spe- be tempted to go to secular courts to court, the beis din’s ruling was final— overturn, decisions based on Jewish cific dispute at hand.” The lower attempt to overturn the religious and, by the laws of New York, entirely law, especially in cases involving reli- court’s decision, the brief argues, rep- court’s decision.” legal and enforceable. What is more, gious institutions and fundamentally resents a serious threat to the reli- What is more, says Rabbi Biser, the brief contends, the state court sys- religious matters. gious autonomy of the beis din as an some Jewish disputants would be tem, by involving itself in a religious And the brief notes as well that the institution, undermines the integrity much less likely to go to a beis din in matter—the beis din’s ruling—violated lower court’s decision represents a of the policies of Torah Umesorah the first place, as is required by the First Amendment. serious threat to the religious autono- governing the hiring of teachers, and halachah. “They would rightly won- “For the courts to entangle them- my of the beis din, a vital and central creates a precedent that could lead to der if the beis din’s decision will, in selves in deciding cases that involve religious institution in the Orthodox unconstitutional interference by the the end, be permitted to stand and be complex matters of Jewish law,” the Jewish community, creating a danger- civil courts in religious matters. legally enforceable.” O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 43 AChat With Shimon Craimer

BY ELI ZOMICK A. The UK is where I grew up. I have NESHOMA ORCHESTRA family and friends there and every year I go back for a few weddings and a couple Q. What prompted you to consider pur- of concerts because, firstly I get a chance suing your musical career with us in to catch up and secondly because the America, after having been born and ruach at weddings and the response at trained in the UK? the concerts are the best in the world. A. I reached a certain point in the UK There is nothing like a British audience! when I knew as an Orthodox Jew I could- Going back to England every now and n’t do any more than I was doing. I was a then is always satisfying and it’s impor- chazzan in the biggest tant to keep that connection. shul in London and I was performing at Q. It’s become increasingly clear that smachot all the time, but that was it. I you are one of a very few select performers wanted to further my musical aspirations who manages to balance and even excel at in a place where there was more opportu- the two musical roles you’ve mapped out nity—namely New York! for yourself. That is, chazzan on Shabbat Q. How would you briefly describe your at the prestigious Riverdale Jewish Center, music-making experience in the U.S. as and lead vocalist with the renowned compared to your London performances? Neshoma Orchestra. How do you explain A. There is a certain sound that the your success in juggling these two very dif- orchestras in New York, especially ferent performing roles? Neshoma, have that you can’t match A. I grew up listening to the greatest abroad. I think it has to do with the fact ba’alei tefilah in the Ner Yisrael communi- the musicians who make up the bands reg- ty center in Hendon while simultaneous- ularly record the music that we play. That’s ly absorbing many musical styles through not to say that the Brits are not good musi- my exceedingly musical family from an cians. Some of the finest musicians in the early age into adulthood. One of the great- world come from across the pond!! est things Ner Yisrael did was to allow me However, there is more of an industry to daven regularly for the amud, right after here and therefore the musicians that we my bar mitzvah. That allowed me to prac- use are more absorbed in the style that tice and perfect my davening in a modern modern Jewish music requires. Orthodox shul with niggunim as well as a Q. I notice that you often return to the small amount of chazzanut. When I went UK to perform in various settings. Do you to music school after yeshiva I trained to find that taxing, satisfying, or important to your career? Continued on Page 46

44 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES finances. One pet peeve of mine is the gestion might be that all requests home new camp trend of having multiple coun- for any money must go through one per- selors per bunk. While there is safety in son. This person could then monitor the numbers, it also means that come tip time requests going home and limit the parents might be asked to tip three or amount requested per student. more counselors, in addition to a JC and The bottom line is that while e-mailing CIT, for one child. Camps need to be more handbooks might seem like only pennies sensitive to the pressure this creates. saved, and an extra tip here or there or a Revealing The Untold Stories Of I met personally with men of the 45th Yeshivas need to think twice about the $10 request for a petting zoo might not World War II and 42nd infantry divisions, who told in multiple requests that go home through- seem like much, they each deliver a very Dear Editor, their own words about happenings out the year asking for money for differ- specific message. Someone was good enough to forward known only to the men who were the lib- ent projects, trips, and initiatives. These Wishing everyone a kesivah the article you recently printed about erators. A chapter is devoted to the requests come from multiple sources v’chasimah tovah and a year of parnasah Dachau (“The Road to Munich,” by Larry Ritchie Boys, German Jewish GIs who (rebbi, teacher, school) who may not be for all. Domnitch, August 7 issue of the 5TJT). were a vital factor in bringing the war to aware of all the other requests. One sug- Avromi Singer Having lived on Long Island for many a quick end once the German border had years before moving out to the West been breached. Coast, I was very familiar with the Five Sincerely, Towns area, since my brother, Professor David L. Israel Benjamin Israel, had lived in Woodmere. Not only that, but I had written about A Penny Saved… William Denson of Lawrence, who was Dear Editor, the chief prosecutor at the Dachau trials, I would like to give kudos to Darchei which were the first war criminal trials Torah for making the move to e-mailing held in Germany. handbooks for parents who accepted the As a GI, I was stationed in the Dachau option of having the handbooks sent as a Your Ad concentration camp at war’s end as a PDF attachment. It shows that the yeshi- member of a five-man intelligence team; va is being considerate of their finances our job was to track down war criminals. and looking for new opportunities to I wrote about the liberation of Dachau save. Use of e-mail could literally save the Could and the massacre that took place in the yeshiva thousands of dollars this year, camp on the day of liberation. This had and more down the road as additional been a well-kept secret for almost 50 opportunities are found to use technolo- years. My book is titled The Day the gy to become even more efficient and fis- Be Here. Thunderbird Cried: Untold Stories of cally responsible. World War II (Emek Press, 2005; see This year is going to be a tough one for www.thunderbirdcried.com for more everyone: yeshivos, families, mosdos, and information). I believe your readers will businesses alike. We all need to look for find many stories of interest in the book, every opportunity to show each other which also contains pictures never before that we are making efforts to keep costs published. down and be considerate of each other’s

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 45 Shimon Craimer Q. Unlike many of today’s vocal stars, coming and to conduct some choirs and New York aren’t focused enough on mak- Continued from Page 44 your formal training has allowed you to a capella groups. ing the chupah the centerpiece. I feel become a proficient pianist as well as a Q. In the relatively short time that you that the chupah is such an emotional sing with the right techniques for chaz- trained choral arranger. How did you have been performing in the tri-state area, and uplifting experience for everyone zanos singing but because of my perform- pursue and attain all these additional you have managed to redefine the singing that I take great care in making it the ing at weddings and davening in Ner musical skills? role at a chupah. Your ability to bring highlight of the simchah to remind Yisrael I was able to learn how to switch A. Going to the Royal Academy of your own musical sensibilities as well as everyone that this is a special moment off from one style to the other. Music, basically. They teach you every- formidable vocal techniques to the many for the chasan, kallah, and their families Q. Have you experienced any conflict as a thing you need to know. I play the piano popular current chupah melodies that that will be remembered forever! result of wearing these two “musical hats”? purely to accompany myself because you perform has resulted in a great Q. You were recently chosen to represent A. During the music college years I playing the piano as a solo instrument is demand for your services. Was this the England in the extensive recording project would sometimes overcook a niggun very different from accompaniment. I norm in London? Have you consciously spearheaded by Chief Rabbi Sachs com- because I was too involved with the learned that as well at college because I set out to reinvigorate this part of your memorating the 60th anniversary of the training. Singing “Yasis olayich” like thought I could play until I started there. wedding performance? State of Israel. How did that come about? Yossele Rosenblatt had a cool if unusual What did you perform? sound to it!! A. I’m very thankful that I have such a However over the years I’ve learned to special relationship with Chief Rabbi switch off between the two really effec- I feel that the chupah is such an Sachs. Ever since I was a kid we have tively, allowing me to perform one style crossed paths. We really became firm of singing and then perform the other. friends when he used to speak at the Q. At what age did you begin your for- emotional and uplifting experience for annual national choral midnight mal musical training? At who’s suggestion? Selichos service that I led for a few years A. When I was a kid, my father always everyone that I take great care in making together with a fine chazzan, Lionel told me that when I reached a certain Rosenfeld and the Shabbaton Choir, the age he would stop me from singing in best choir in the UK. For many years public because if you use the voice it the highlight of the simchah. now I have been traveling to Israel with incorrectly from the age of 14 to the end the chief and the choir on solidarity of 16, you can damage the vocal chords missions when he would speak and I and when the voice breaks it has to would sing. Last year I met up with the break gradually. I remember my friends You have to audition for two instruments A. Back in Blighty the big difference chief at Grand Central Station when he one day sounding like choir boys and in order to get in. One has to be your between weddings there and here is that was in New York to speak and we dis- they’d wake up the next morning and main and the other is a second tier study. they concentrate far more on the chu- cussed producing an album for Israel’s sound like Barry White!! You can then drop one if you get accept- pah. A whole day is taken in the UK for a 60th birthday that would combine Baruch Hashem and thanks to my dad ed. As soon as I got in and realized that wedding because it’s so nice to separate beautiful music with the chief rabbi’s and a good echo in the shower, I was able studying piano was going to conflict with the chupah from the dinner. The chupah inspirational words. He came up with to control myself and my voice broke concentrating on my voice, I dropped it is the most important part of the wed- some great selections and I was able to gradually. After that I knew that I needed knowing that I knew enough to do what ding and so much beautiful music has offer my suggestions. to keep the voice healthy and so I started I wanted with the ivories, and that was to been written for that part of the sim- I was asked to record some songs espe- having singing lessons from the age of 17 accompany myself. Understanding and chah. I feel so far that although great cially for the project including, Im through college and was able to pick up learning about choral writing there also care is taken by the bands to beautify the Eshkochiech, Al Kol Eileh, Keli Keli, and a advice from some of the world’s best. helped a lot with the album that I had chupah, the majority of weddings in new V’hi Sheamdah. Some of them were

46 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES especially exciting as we were able to hire from above. I was asked to sing at a wed- ple—especially my rabbi and friend, jolly good time on the bandstand, I’m able the services of Trevor Horn, an A list pro- ding of a friend of mine from yeshiva on Rabbi Rosenblatt, someone I respect as a to work with the best in the business in an ducer in the UK to produce three master- my first trip to the States, in Chicago. person of greatness and humility. office run by Mike, Elly Zomick, Dov Katz, ful tracks in Abbey Road and SARM stu- There was someone there who hadn’t I can’t think of a better place to raise Dave Hirsch, and Renee Sojcher, that looks dios in London. The project was a huge even moved to Riverdale yet who liked my kids and as a shul the RJC is one in a after its guys and in an environment that success. As many as 300,000 copies were what he heard and asked for my card. I million allowing me to daven for a com- allows me to grow musically at every distributed around Israel, the UK, and went back to London and carried on with munity that wants my style of davening, event. They truly are the best in the busi- parts of the Commonwealth and Europe. life there. Four years later I receive an e- where we both share in the benefits. ness!! I love performing my own music as Q. The unusually wide range of musical mail from this guy who says he’s moved to Q. As you look forward, what do you well as that of others. I have a number of styles that you have mastered has allowed Riverdale and they are looking for a new have planned on the musical horizon? You musical projects in the works. One, my you to perform with gospel choirs, new album of many styles will be ready Broadway, and movie arrangers, alterna- for the summer and I’m also involved with tive groups, Israeli musicians, and chil- an interesting project together with the dren’s choirs. Do any of these experiences RJC to give people a chance to learn some stand out as being especially meaningful amazing niggunim for the yom tov daven- and musically gratifying to you? ing. We already made one for the yamim A. Music is an amazing gift to the world. noraim and we hope to make a set of I have had an amazing experience with all them. I also have a concert tour I’m plan- the styles that you mentioned. Each one ning with Neshoma Orchestra. has allowed me to express myself in many Q. Your young family has grown quickly different ways. All of them are uplifting and, Baruch Hashem, beautifully. Tell us and interesting. The gospel track I created about your “better half” Ruthie and the for the album fits the Jewish melody and kids and whether you have plans for their the words so well that it feels like the song musical education. was initially intended for that style. The A. I have no idea what I would do with- sweeping melodic arrangements for the out my Ruthie. I have a wife Baruch P h o t o

English song demonstrate what good s Hashem who not only understands me B y R orchestral writing can do for a melody. a and puts up with me, but who is kind and b e n k The feel that Israeli musicians have for o generous to others. She is truly an eishes P h o t o

their craft is unmatchable and seeing the g chayil. Together we are raising four beauti- r a p h effect harmonies have on kids in choirs is y ful energetic children. Our children—Uri, just so satisfying. I love music. It’s just Ben and Eli who are twins, and our ten- plain and simple! chazzan. He remembered what I sounded seem to have a “jolly good time” perform- month-old baby girl Mia are energetic bub- Q. You have made a home for yourself like and brought me in for Shabbos. I got ing with Neshoma Orchestra. Do you still bly musical kids. The boys constantly ask and your family in Riverdale and despite the job that night and called my wife who enjoy performing at weddings and other to come and sing with me which is very being courted by many other Orthodox said we should try it for a year. Baruch live venues? cute. Eli is exceedingly rhythmic and my communities, you have chosen to continue Hashem, five and a half years later we are A. The other shidduch that, Baruch others appreciate it to the point that les- to grow within the Riverdale setting. What still there and have just cemented our Hashem, fell into place was with Neshoma sons in whatever instrument they want is so special about this relationship? How future in the community by moving into Orchestra. I have Yossi Green to thank for will certainly be forthcoming. I know if it did you first come to RJC? a house. Riverdale is an amazing, warm, that. He introduced me to Michael wasn’t for Ruthie pushing us to give New A. The shidduch with the RJC is truly friendly place with some amazing peo- Sojcher. Not only do I have an amazingly York a try, we would still be in the UK. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 47 Sarsur: Clinton, Not Barak, Made Camp David Offers

BY MAAYANA MISKIN the PA as if they came from Partition Plan, Israel was sup- Barak, with the intent of con- posed to get 51 percent of the Member of Knesset Ibrahim vincing Barak to agree to the territory,” he said. Sarsur said on Monday that for- offer later, Sarsur said. “Barak did Sarsur was referring to a UN mer Prime Minister Ehud Barak not make any concrete proposal proposal that would have split did not offer anything to former regarding Jerusalem,” he added. British Mandate Palestine into Palestinian Authority Chairman Popular belief that Barak two states, one Jewish and one

“Neighborhoods such as Neve Yaakov, Ramot, Ramat Eshkol, and Pisgat Zeev rightfully belong to PA Arabs,” he said.

Yasser Arafat when the two met at and then-Foreign Minister Arab. The two were to have Camp David in 2000. The famed Shlomo Ben-Ami offered the roughly equal shares of territory, “98 percent” offer was made by PA almost the entire territory although much of the land des- then-United States President Bill of Judea and Samaria, as well ignated for Jews was in the Clinton, Sarsur alleged. as much of eastern Jerusalem Negev Desert, while the Arab Clinton would make offers to and even the Temple Mount, state was to receive more fertile Judaism’s holiest site, is mis- land in the north of the country. taken, Sarsur claims. “Those Instead, the Jewish state are just fairy tales,” he said. ended up with over 70 percent Sarsur insisted that protocols of British Mandated Palestine of the Camp David meeting sup- after being attacked by several ported his version of events. The Arab armies, and local Arab mili- MK, who is known to have close tias, shortly after declaring a ties to the PA and Fatah, said state on the Partition Plan land. Barak’s alleged refusal to make Sarsur made it clear that offers was one of the subjects when the PA speaks of “occupied discussed at the recent Fatah east Jerusalem,” it is referring to conference in Bethlehem. Jewish neighborhoods and not Sarsur also expressed anger only those areas that are current- over Israel’s insistence that ly majority Arab. Neighborhoods Jerusalem remain the capital of such as Neve Yaakov, Ramot, the Jewish state, and not be Ramat Eshkol, and Pisgat Zeev given to the PA to serve as the rightfully belong to PA Arabs, he capital of a future Arab state. said, as do all neighborhoods “Isn’t it enough that the that fell under Jordanian control Palestinians relinquished 75 per- from 1948 to 1967. cent of holy Palestine? Now they “When they say ‘east need to give up more?” he asked. Jerusalem,’ that means every- According to Sarsur, Israel thing that was conquered dur- had received more than its fair ing the Six Day War,” Sarsur share of land even prior to the explained. He expressed sup- Six Day War, in which 1948 Israel port for the PA position, say- was reunited with Judea, ing, “All of that land is occu- Samaria, the Golan Heights, and pied, and must be returned.” Jerusalem. “According to the (Arutz Sheva) O

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48 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The Islamic Republic also has started a nuclear program, not for peaceful purpos- The Shameless, Deadly Silence es, as they claim, but only to prolong their unwanted existence long enough to get BY DR. ARASH IRANDOOST “bring peace and prosperity to the people against pro-democracy activists. their hands on the bomb. Then they can of the world.” In the age of terror and bla- The UN’s never-ending silence on the feel invincible and continue their control Many of you have been busy circulat- tant human-rights violations by many crimes committed by the agents of terror over the armless Iranian people, and ulti- ing numerous petitions to the United countries, such as Burma, China, and Iran, in Iran is abhorrent. The UN has conve- mately export their version of Shi’a Islam Nations regarding the brutality of the the UN has failed miserably to meet its niently ignored the men and women and terrorism around the globe. Islamic Republic of Iran. Please do not obligation and its purpose. The UN pro- being beaten, brutalized, raped, and shot Iran’s regime is already in gross viola- waste your precious time any longer, grams which were set up to help the in the streets of Tehran and other Iranian tion of a series of UN sanctions over a hoping for a miracle to happen from this Palestinians over the past half-century cities. The Security Council is silent; the nuclear program the UN Security Council incompetent, corrupt, anti-Semitic, and have not only failed to produce decent Human Rights Council is silent; and no deems a threat to international peace. The pro-Islamic organization. Since June 12, lives, but have helped create a culture of member state or any UN official has both- same regime has now unleashed its secu- 2009, despite numerous petitions signed hate and violence—fueled in large part by ered to call for an emergency session to rity apparatus of trained thugs and snipers by Iranians and submitted to the UN, on Iranian youth who have been, in huge there has not been any strong condem- numbers, demanding their basic rights. nation from this pro-Islamist organiza- Surely, top UN officials such as Secretary- tion regarding the criminal conduct of Pro-democracy demonstrators are being killed General Ban Ki-moon should be leading the medieval Islamist regime against its the charge for liberty and justice, with the own citizens. daily by the paramilitary group, the Basijis, and strongest possible condemnation and Don’t just take my word for it; please other measures against the mullahs. do your own research on this organiza- Hamas militias in Iran. Where is the UN? But that’s not happening. While tion and how it functions. The UN is an Iranian protesters have been risking their organization rife with incompetence, cor- lives to try to rid their country of immoral ruption, and mismanagement. Islamic dictators, Ban Ki-moon congratu- The Iranian people are simply hope- the UN’s own anti-Israel agenda. It is not address these issues. lates Ahmadinejad, invites him to the UN less and helpless, and the United Nations uncommon to hear anti-Israeli rhetoric in Why is the UN abandoning Iran’s thou- General Assembly, and asks him to contin- does not come to their rescue. Mass pub- the hallways of the United Nations. sands of brutalized victims? Would Neda, ue cooperating closely with the UN in lic hangings, as well as secret executions You have heard frequent complaining Sohrab, and Taraneh, and numerous addressing regional and global issues. in prisons, are routine in the tyrannical and condemnation from the UN that the other peaceful demonstrators, have been Do not waste your time with your peti- Islamic Republic of Iran. From its past self-admitted terrorist prisoners at arrested, tortured, raped, and killed if the tions. The UN is too cozy with Hamas ter- performance, or rather its absence of per- Guantanamo are being denied their UN had put the mullahs on notice and rorists and loathsome mullahs. Do not formance, we know that the UN watch- human rights, or defenseless Palestinians expressed the world’s outrage? expect any help from the UN; they are in dog is a true disgrace to dogs, since all it are killed by Israeli soldiers; yet, the UN Pro-democracy demonstrators are cahoots with extremists and have deviat- does is eat, sleep, and look the other way. has no time to speak out against docu- being killed daily by the paramilitary ed from their original human rights char- Furthermore, the dog has no teeth. The mented human-rights-violating thugs in group, the Basijis, and Hamas militias in ter of treating the world as one human vet had to pull all its teeth before the dog Iran. The UN has ignored the alarming Iran. Where is the UN? The UN was creat- family. (Arutz Sheva) O became acceptable to the crafty cats that surge in assassinations, rapes, killings, ed and is committed in its charter to pro- Dr. Arash Irandoost is a researcher, literary constitute the UN itself. torture, and the massive crackdown that mote peace and freedom and to “reaffirm translator, and pro-democracy activist who The founding purpose of the UN was to the Islamic Republic has launched faith in fundamental human rights.” advocates regime change in Iran.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 49 Eating Disorders: The Secret War

Part 3 has beaten her self-destructive relation- Rambam states that the health of the direction, even the simplest test can B Y RABBI SHEA HECHT ship with food. body is essential for avodas Hashem. seem hopeless. But if we understand I was reminded of this story Taking this to heart, she views her our troubles in a way that challenges Many years ago, I had the opportunity because of a teen whom I recently daily meals as part of a spiritual medi- us to fulfill our purpose in this to meet with a young woman who strug- spoke with who is grappling with cine which enables her to fulfill her world, we can tap into a wealth of gled with an eating disorder. For a variety bulimia nervosa, the “binge and role as a Jewish woman. Her medicine, energy and inspiration that will help of reasons, she was searching for a refuge. purge” disorder. I am very impressed in this case, is a commitment to rou- us overcome our challenges. That refuge turned out to be food. It was by the approach she had adopted, tine and modest meals that keep her Without a doubt, victory over an not long before her “comfort eating” had which bears some remarkable similar- in good physical health and able to eating disorder comes with the guid- her weight spiraling out of control. ities. This youngster is likewise fully serve Hashem. In other words, her ance of professionals, the support of She had a keen awareness of the loved ones, and years of work. No one health risks involved and of the way that should presume otherwise. On the it affected her opinion of herself. other hand, as Jews we have an inher- Nonetheless, both conventional and “fad” itance of thousands of years of wis- diets failed, time after time, leaving her She views her daily meals as dom that has guided us through even feeling broken (further fueling the prob- the darkest moments. In caring for the lem). She was very hard pressed to con- part of a spiritual medicine material body, we cannot ignore the trol her impulses at all, let alone to actu- need for a fulfilling spiritual life. It is ally lose any weight. Yet, almost by acci- through this alone that we can lay a dent, she found the means to reinvent which enables her to fulfill her foundation from which we rise to herself and find the perspective necessary meet our challenges. O to deal with her personal issues and beat her chronic overeating: avodas Hashem. role as a Jewish woman. Rather than dealing with her issue as a private personal conflict, she instead WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? dealt with it as a religious battle to WE WANT TO KNOW! refine herself and her place in the aware of the potential long-term desire to feel spiritually whole helps world—what chassidic philosophy health risks and the damage to her her to fight physical inclinations. This E-MAIL US AT calls “avodas ha’birurim.” The pillar of body that are at stake. But because young woman has a long way to go in her relationship to the Al-mighty and awareness is not the only side of the her struggle with bulimia, but she [email protected] her mission as a Jew was iskafiya coin in this struggle, she searched for does have a new resolve as an invalu- (restraint), and she considered any food and found the inspiration she needed able resource to help her in this fight. OR UPLOAD that was unnecessary for her health to fight her destructive illness. Very few of our life’s battles can be YOUR COMMENTS AT and well-being to be treif. Years later, She keeps herself from “bingeing won without invoking the best of she looks and behaves like an entirely and purging” by changing her point of our spirit and determination. If we www.5tjt.com different person. By all accounts she view about food altogether. The see ourselves as isolated and without

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50 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 51 52 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Huckabee In Jerusalem: No PA State In Holy Land

BY HILLEL FENDEL Disengagement expulsion in 2005. He when he had become a Zionist, he said, “unfortunately, President Obama has was accompanied by MK Ayoub Kara of “I’m not a Zionist, I’m just a realist, and a declared war on G-d, in that this land was “I keep coming back to this simple truth: the Likud and Chabad Rabbi Shalom Dov lover of liberty—a value that is celebrated given by Him to the Jewish People. When Israel deserves a safe homeland,” said for- Wolpe. The mini-dais set up in the muse- and common in both of our countries.” you visit this museum and see the expul- mer U.S. presidential candidate Mike um for the occasion thus comprised a Asked whether he is confident that sion of Jews from their land in Gaza, know Huckabee on Wednesday during a visit to Zionist Druze, a former Christian pastor, pro-American, pro-Israeli, and anti- that our goal today is to make sure that the the Gush Katif Museum in Jerusalem. and a Jewish rabbi. Palestinian-state views such as his would same thing doesn’t happen again to tens of Huckabee is on the third and last day thousands of Jews in Judea and Samaria.” of his twelfth trip to Israel, during which Huckabee spent several minutes in the he has visited Jewish sites in eastern museum’s “black room,” in which disturb- Jerusalem, Maaleh Adumim, Beit El, the ing video scenes of the actual expulsion Shomron (Samaria) and elsewhere. He “I’m not a Zionist, I’m just a realist, from a synagogue in Gush Katif are repeatedly expressed the right of Israelis repeatedly screened. He asked many to live wherever they desire without fear and a lover of liberty—a value that questions, particularly when he saw sol- of foreign intervention, and said he sees diers forcibly removing struggling young- no need for a new Arab state to arise in sters, followed by scenes of soldiers and the Biblical areas of Judea and Samaria. is celebrated and common in both residents embracing and a crying police- Huckabee finished second in the race man holding a Torah scroll. (Arutz Sheva) O to become the Republican Party’s candi- of our countries.” date for president last year, and though he has not yet announced whether he will run again in 2012, he is considered Submit your the early front-runner. He implied that he Five Towns Events/News would have something to say on the Emphasizing that his positions are not garner strong support in a future nation- topic in his Fox News TV program at the anti-U.S., Huckabee emphasized the al election, given the increasing Muslim for the Next Issue by end of this week. “organic” relationship he perceives influence in the West, Huckabee joked, Huckabee’s hosts brought him on between Israel and the U.S. “Both coun- “I’m not 100 percent sure. Otherwise I 5:00 P.M. Monday. Wednesday to the Gush Katif Museum in tries were established under similar cir- would have been in a very different posi- Send e-mail to: Jerusalem, which memorializes the cumstances,” he said, “when people man- tion right now. But I do feel that dynamic community life in Gush Katif ifested tremendous self-sacrifice to create Americans are in favor of liberty.” [email protected] and its abrupt end during the a society of liberty and freedoms.” Asked Rabbi Wolpe told Huckabee that

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 53 The Real Agenda: Dimona BY MOSHE DANN

“I understand those who protest that some countries have weapons that others do not. No single nation should pick and choose which nations hold nuclear weapons. That is why I strongly reaffirmed America’s commitment to seek a world in which no nations hold nuclear weapons. And any nation—including Iran—should have the right to access peaceful nuclear power if it complies with its responsibili- ties under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. That commitment is at the core of the treaty, and it must be kept for all who fully abide by it. And I am hopeful that all countries in the region can share in this goal.” —President Barack Obama, June 4, 2009

No doubt, Arab terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda, Hamas, and Hezbollah have Dimona in their sights as well.

As a policy statement, this means that America (or any other country) cannot deny the right of any country to maintain weapons of mass destruction. It under- cuts the reasons for America’s attack in Iraq, assents to nuclear proliferation, and precludes any action against Iran. It also turns the focus on Israel. Amidst all of the distortions and inac- curacies of President Obama’s speech in Cairo, this paragraph sends chills through Israel’s intelligence community. His refer- ence was not just to Iranian nuclear weapons, but “any nation” that has or acquires them. That includes Israel. Obama’s emphasis on a commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty is a direct threat to Israel’s security. Israel has refused to agree to that treaty because it means opening all of its facilities to inspection—including its top-secret plant in Dimona. Aware of Israel’s longstanding policy in this matter, Obama shifts the attack. By linking support for Israel against Iran with a halt to all settlement building, and establishing a second Arab Palestinian state, Obama has set the stage for his big prize: Dimona. Aware that no Israeli government can agree to a complete freeze in building, Obama can blame Israel for American inaction against Iran and lack of support for its war in Afghanistan. It’s a perfect excuse: “Israel didn’t do enough; it’s Israel’s fault.” “Israeli intransigence” will be given as the reason for America’s failure. “If only Israel had evacuated more settlements, stopped building, dismantled more checkpoints, given more aid to Hamas, stopped demolishing illegal Arab build- 54 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES ings, etc., we could have done some- thing,” Obama will say. But Obama’s real agenda is not settle- ments; it is Israel’s nuclear capacity. Egypt especially has been urging the U.S. to force Israel to open its facility in Dimona. Prior to the Six Day War in 1967, Russian spy-planes flew over Dimona and, accord- ing to Isabella Ginor and Gideon Remez in Foxbats Over Dimona, wanted to bomb it. No doubt, Arab terrorist groups like Al- Qaeda, Hamas, and Hezbollah have Dimona in their sights as well. The key to neutralizing Israel’s nuclear capacity is the NPT. As Obama’s speech clearly indicates, Israel’s agreement to the NPT is the lever to gain Iranian compli- ance. “How can Israel be allowed to have nuclear weapons,” Obama suggests, “and not Iran, or any other country?” Unlike any other president, Obama has put Israel in a difficult, if not impossible, position. If it refuses to agree to sign the NPT, Israel will be isolated and blamed for lack of progress on Iran. If it agrees, Israel will lose a vital strategic deterrent. Well aware of terrorist threats to America, and concerned about invest- ments and interests throughout the world, Obama sees pushing Israel against the wall as a convenient way of deflect- ing Muslim terrorism. As long as Islamists think that Obama is on their side, they’ll refrain from attacking, keep the oil flow- ing, and the prices low. Iran may even be willing to make cos- metic (and temporary) adjustments so that Obama can claim that the crisis has been defused. And Israel will pay the price: sanctions, boycotts, and diplomatic and economic isolation similar to the international pressures that broke South Africa’s apartheid regime. Obama’s speech is an ominous warn- ing of what he is prepared to do in order to strip Israel of its military advantage. Along with the loss of control over Judea and Samaria, territories that are vital for Israel’s security and access to water reserves, faced with Arab terrorist militias backed by Arab armies, Israel will be com- pletely vulnerable. The face of this jihad is not one of rant- ing, bearded clerics, but of smooth-talk- ing, clean-shaven smiling apostles of peace, and the Philosopher-King of Hope. (Arutz Sheva) O

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 55 Ya’alon: Israeli Elites, ‘Peace Now’ Are Harmful

Moshe Ya’alon, vice premier and strate- Now, and if you will, the elites, their dam- gic affairs minister of Israel, seems to age is great.” have recently forged a political partner- “As far as I’m concerned, Jews can, and ship with Likud activist and head of should, live in all of the Land of Israel for- Manhigut Yehudit (Jewish Leadership ever,” Ya’alon said to applause. The minis- movement) Moshe Feiglin, as evident in ter went on to say that as he had said on footage released Wednesday evening on many occasions while serving in the IDF, Channel 2, in which Ya’alon also called “Every time they [the government] bring Peace Now and the Israeli elites “viruses.” the dove of peace, the army has to clean Speaking in a closed meeting organ- up after it.” ized by Feiglin for Manhigut Yehudit Feiglin, who Netanyahu considers a members this week, Ya’alon openly dangerous political foe, was visibly expressed his fears that Prime Minister pleased with the vice premier’s senti- Binyamin Netanyahu might succumb to ments. “What is important to us is to the Left. “Even today we must remain cooperate on every positive move you J P o

concerned. I am still worried and they s make, and it’s obvious you will make t . c o [the media and Left] have power to influ- m such moves. In our party you will find ence the prime minister… The virus Peace Strategic Affairs Minister Moshe Ya’alon. this group helpful,” he said referring to Manhigut Yehudit members, “and we will do good things together.” The prime minister’s office in response said that Netanyahu, who is currently on a private vacation, will summon Ya’alon for a closed conversation when he returns. Ehud Barak’s office issued a statement in response to the report, saying that the Defense Minister and the Labor Party “are committed to advancing a two-state solu- tion, while upholding interests crucial to Israel’s security.” “This is an undignified statement that does not dignify Ya’alon,” sources close to Barak said, adding that “Peace Now is an integral and important part of the demo- cratic and pluralistic debate in Israeli society.” (JPost.com) O

Judges and officers you shall place at all your city-gates… (Devarim 16:18)

The human body is a city with seven gates—seven portals to the outside world: the two eyes, two ears, two nostrils and the mouth. Here, too, it is incumbent upon us to place internal “judges” to discrim- inate and regulate what should be admitted and what should be kept out, and “officers” to enforce the judges’ decisions…

(Sifsei Kohen)

56 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 57 Ode To The Palisades

B Y CHANA SASSON more pleasure now. I have things down to a tee. Heading down Ocean Parkway I Sun glistening through the trees so listen to an Israeli station to hone my intensely that the trees seem to be on Hebrew until the station is drowned out fire. A rainbow of autumn tints and hues by static. Maneuvering between trucks, electrifying the senses. Bare branches potholes, closed lanes, and the general laden with snow so white, so clean, so chaos leading to the Brooklyn Bridge is unearthly. Tiny green buds struggling to bring the trees back to life. I drink in the sights, the mountains, the panoramas, the sky and the ever-changing clouds. It’s good that the One autumn day, around noon, I am driv- ing on the Palisades Parkway and I am trees of the beside myself with pleasure. I turn on my blinkers to let the other drivers know that Palisades have such I plan to do about 35 miles an hour. I struggle to keep an eye on them, while at a calming effect, the same time my eyes are demanding of me to look at the trees. I am lost in the because Pavarotti array of color and clarity and life. I had never seen the effect of the sun on the sends my heart trees in the middle of the day. The leaves seemed to be dancing and aglow like dia- soaring. monds, radiant and so alive. I am crying from sheer joy. What does one do at such times? One turns to Madame Butterfly, Luciano the time to hear bits and pieces of what Pavarotti, , and the in our times are called “news stations.” I heart-wrenching Israeli oldies. traverse the majestic bridge with its flag Having a daughter in Monsey and a flying so proudly, as it should. But my physical therapist in Nyack keeps me on heart always sinks as I espy the new per- the Palisades an awful lot. I don’t remem- manent fixture on the right side—a ber ever having navigated the winding and leisurely Palisades before that. All the Continued on Page 60

58 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 59 Palisades siege. I push myself to enjoy the Sometimes I take a passenger Continued from Page 58 breathtaking views of land, along who pulls out a siddur to water, and sky and to watch all say tefillat ha’derech when she police car with lights flashing. those brave and energetic souls sees the trees on the Palisades. I I remember the first time I walking across the bridge. don’t take any chances. The got myself to board an express On to the FDR and the crawl Palisades is a piece of cake. I bus to Manhattan after 9/11. I up the Harlem River Drive— need all the protection I can get saw police cars all over the very deserving of listening to crossing the two bridges, tra- place. Fierce-looking policemen Bloomberg News. It’s simple: as versing the commercial high- holding machine guns at the you try to get to the George ways, and being extra wary of ready. Car lanes and ramps Washington Bridge, you try to the stressed-out drivers. closed and cars scrutinized. I figure out how to hold on to Finally. I feel the muscles broke down and cried into my your shirt. On the bridge, I unclenching, the blood pressure lap as I so readily pictured admire the boats, and especially dropping, the jaw going limp. “Beware, border in front of you,” the good citizens who fought to Even my Toyota Camry senses “Beware, mines in front of you.” keep the Hudson cliffs green that the worst is over and seems Be wary, pay attention, and have and free of intruding skyscrap- to purr in relief. Now is the time in mind all the time that you ers. I get into the right lane, and to burst forth in song. With and yours are always in danger. there I am, on the lovely and whom shall I start? At the begin- Our buildings, tunnels, bridges, peaceful Palisades. By the way, I ning, of course. Someone, bless trains, our infrastructure— have already said my personal his or her soul, dropped off at everything we always took for version of tefillat ha’derech right my childhood home a phono- granted and enjoyed—are under after turning on the ignition. graph and a box of 20 red records of Verdi’s opera, Madame Butterfly. She soothed my soul then (badly in need of being soothed) and swept me along with her through her tri- als and tribulations, real happi- ness and supposed happiness, highs and lows, betrayal and losses, and having to come to terms with the terms. I stopped short of the Mata Hari. After all, in my religion, G-d determines the purpose of our lives and everything else. We get only to fill in the outline according to His guidelines. The music, and the magnificent voice, filled every nook and cranny of my being and gave me a constant joy and calm. I am forever grate- ful to you, Madame Butterfly, for opening up to me the world of opera and arias and the menuchah they have given me. Next, Luciano Pavarotti. Let me put it this way. When Pavarotti died, my Monsey son- in-law sent me a very short and concise e-mail: “My condo- lences.” It’s good that the trees of the Palisades have such a calming effect, because Pavarotti sends my heart soar- ing. I force myself to keep my eyes open and on the road as his spectacular voice keeps on belting out the aria from La Boheme. I have videos of him in his home in Italy, with his mother, in his kitchen. Always exuberant, always excitable, and always larger than life in every way. I have no idea what he’s singing in various arias— what does it matter? I listen and I am carried away by the sheer magnificence of the voice. My thanks to you, too, Luciano Pavarotti, for the end- less hours of the pleasure of your voice reverberating within my head. Even the trees of the Palisades seem to be swaying to the glorious voice erupting out of my car. Nonetheless, the highest and most thankful praise goes to the great composer and chazan, Ben Zion Shenker, who speaks to the essence of my being. It is not enough to 60 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES listen to him within the confines of a tears and excitement). ace from my sweet singer of Israel. the heart-warming lighting of candles car with the windows rolled up. For But it is to Ben Zion Shenker’s uplift- I cry and I laugh on the Palisades. At and kiddush on Friday night in G-d-for- Ben Zion Shenker, to pay him the prop- ing and moving Al Tirah Yaakov, that I the end of the trip I am refreshed and at saken Entebbe. We find endless ways to er honor and respect, I roll down all the turn for solace. And solace I need. As peace. Some of our most merry songs celebrate our heritage, to laugh and to windows, raise the volume, and blast the chillul Hashem reports shame us, as “were written during dark periods of dance and to be b’simcha. After all, we are him across the Palisades. The least I can the horrific news from all over the Jewish history, during the bloody years of the eternal people. Our lives are full of do. One time I was showing off this cus- world engulfs us, as anti-Semitism the Crusades, the Black Death, and count- meaning and purpose and goodness— tom of mine to a granddaughter. She everywhere rears its ugly head again less persecutions and expulsions” (from actually what joy is all about for a Jew. giggled and gloated. “We’re blasting (from where it had just been taking a the record jacket). Of course. Why not? I assure you that every ride on the Mizmor L’David across the Palisades.” nap), as the fears for this medinah shel We are not mired down in the here and Palisades attests to this joy. The trees Madame Butterfly may have been the chesed and great democracy mount, as I now. We are on a journey. A journey that themselves bow down and bless us with first to soothe my soul but it is Ben read that a bachur facing traffic court is mapped out by HaKadosh Baruch Hu. this joy. O Zion Shenker, more than any other, for driving without a license and losing Through good times and bad times, who super-soothes me and speaks to control of the car pleaded with Rav through ups and downs, through joy and my Jewish soul. Chaim Kanievsky for a berachah to grief. We are the eternal people. Because He and I go back to 1960 when I had keep him out of jail, as I see the inordi- at all times, no matter what the situation the good fortune to become the proud nate amount of sinat chinam, the great and no matter the number of frightening owner of his record, lichvod Shabbat. lack of civility and of proper respect of and troubling internal and external Since then, he has always been my side- one for the other, the often flagrant dis- events—we, the Jews, shall persevere and kick and my comforter. I concur with the regard for the laws of bein adam overcome and thrive. late Chief Rabbi Hertz of Great Britain, l’chavero, the worrisome retreat from Our music shows us the way. Al Tirah who is quoted on the record jacket as say- the outside world, and thus the loss of Yaakov, just because of Mizmor L’David ing, “Zemiroth are a product of the Jewish the crucial ability and knowledge to and Shalom Aleichem Malachei Hasharet. genius, which interweaves the secular interact with G-d’s world, as I see a We may suffer and wail and mourn, we with the sacred and spreads over the ordi- great deal of arrogance, and an unbe- may be anxious and fearful and scared. nary facts of life the rainbow of the coming sense of entitlement, the We may seek solace and refuge. Yet we Divine…these repasts become literally a ostentatiousness and the diminution thrill at G-d’s miracles—be it from the service of joy and with joy.” of many of our core values, I seek sol- heights of the parting of the Red Sea to The first Gerrer Rebbe exclaimed, “Were I blessed with a sweet voice, I could sing you new hymns and songs every day, for with the daily rejuvenation of the world new songs are created.” And so Hashem gave us the gift of a Ben Zion Shenker. Sweet singer of Israel (my words). From the record jacket, “The com- poser, Ben Zion Shenker, though born and bred in the United States, exempli- fies in his flow of Chassidic compositions of rare depth and lyrical beauty the con- tinuance of the tradition of ‘neginah’ from the days of the Baal Shem Tov… When in 1940 the Modzitzer Rebbe…came to the United States, Ben Zion, then fif- teen, became an ardent admirer and fol- lower of the Rebbe…becoming in effect, his musical secretary.” This year I had the extra good for- tune to meet Ben Zion Shenker and his wife in their home. Thank G-d, the man matched his music—they were indeed one and the same. He fits right in on the beautiful Palisades, where the sights and the sounds can blend in perfect harmony. Let me try to explain. When Ben Zion Shenker sings “Shalom Aleichem Malachei Hasharet,” I see him, enveloped in a long tallit, beseeching HaKadosh Baruch Hu to enter our homes and bless us. When Ben Zion Shenker sings Mizmor L’David, a feeling of peace engulfs me and I can feel Hashem responding to Ben Zion Shenker’s pleas. (“On a visit to the Holy Land in the summer of 1946, Shenker, inspired by the heroic stand taken by the yishuv in its effort to achieve independence, composed this poignant melody. It is perhaps his best known…” Now I understood why this nigun has especially driven me to

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 61 is the only thing that impacts A Man Who longevity,” he says. The senior Slavin played in the Red Army Orchestra and in the Lithuanian Lived Modestly, army orchestra as a youth. In 1937, hearing Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi propaganda minister, speak on the Ate Little, And radio, he decided it was best to immi- grate to Israel. He did not succeed in persuading the rest of his family to Lived To Be 108 take the same step; they all perished in . BY NIR HASSON In Israel, Slavin opened Israel’s first language school in . Jerusalem. He was born in Languages were his field of expertise; in 1901, 13 years before the his son notes he spoke 13 different outbreak of World War I, two years languages. About 63 years ago, Slavin before the Wright Brothers’ first moved to Jerusalem and began writ- flight and 22 years before the birth of ing textbooks in English. The books, Israeli president Shimon Peres. Last filled with his own short stories, week, at age 108, Yaakov Slavin were recognized by the Education passed away. Ministry. Until six months ago, Yaakov’s son, Professor Shimon Slavin was still involved in the publi- Slavin, formerly the director of cation of his last book, a French-lan- Israel’s National Bone Marrow guage textbook. Transplant Center, has only one Since his 100th birthday, Yaakov explanation for his father’s longevity. had been invited annually to the tra- “His secret was he ate very little. He ditional event at the President’s was very thin up until the day he Residence for Israel’s centenarians, died. He never gorged himself, never but never attended. “I have nothing went to restaurants. We are a genera- to do with those old folks,” he told tion that needs more than he did— family members. more clothes, more possessions, and Slavin remained in his own home, more food. He was from another gen- entirely independent, until the last eration. When I wanted to treat him, months of his life, when he took on to buy him kitchen appliances or fur- some help but remained at home. niture, he would say he liked poverty. Slavin died Monday at Tel Aviv’s Ichilov Modesty was part of him.” Hospital due to complications from a Professor Slavin has scientific leg injury. He is survived by a son and a proof, too. “Everything we know daughter, five grandchildren, and five indicates that reducing caloric intake great-grandchildren. (Haaretz) O

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Simchas Naava Lawrence — The Carlyle — Bright Share your simcha flowers! Be sunny corner apt, 1 BR, 1.5 bth, 24-hour m’sameach other simchas! Donate your doorman, W/D, terrace, brand new car- fresh flower arrangements! We will pets and floors, low taxes, parking match your simcha date with included ...... $479K simchas following yours or deliver them 516-374-7006 to nursing home residents. To donate or obtain flower Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth arrangements call 516-239-6066 Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K In memory of a special friend, Naava Wassner Katlowitz Call 516-322-3555 66 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR RENT

Cedarhurst: 1st. Show Woodmere/Cedarhurst Oppty! Lawrence — 4BR, 3bth col. walk-up Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, 1st FLR, FDR, 2BR. 2BTHS Terrace. 12,000 sq. ft. approx. 90’x150’, Colonial, attic, finished basement. . . . Low $8’sK FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. Views of Gdns, W/D 17 rooms, full bsmt. with hi ceilings, Woodmere — Mint 3BR ranch. Low . . Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 Lo maint, Grt. loca’n, Walk all . $319K clean 2 car garage plus storage, 6 space ...... $400’sK 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 parking, 2 family, professional use, Woodmere — Mint 4BR, 2.5bth col. . . accountant, Esq., medical and/or educa- ...... $699K Far Rockaway: 2 Fam. All NU North Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch tional and religious uses. Grand colonial Hewlett Harbor — Large 4BR col. . . . 3 over 3 Br. 4Fbth, Dr, Full bsmt in MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. with charm and great possibilities...... $899K All features ...... $779K 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Available at once . . . $875K Negotiable Smolinsky Properties 516-295-4444 Call 516-263-6417 Owner 516-322-3555 Cedarhurst — Nu House Lawrence — NU 2 Mkt. Col., Brk., East Rockaway Hewlett Harbor — Brick C/H col. Acre CH Col. LR, FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, Large property, near ALL, 5Br, 3.5Bth, 8 Arnold Ct — 8/22, 11:30-1 . . . . $599K + Separate Waterfront lot, on Macy 4BR, 3bths, Bsmt. Den, full bsmt ...... $1.9M 223 Waverly Ave — 8/22, 11:30-1, $599K channel, w/bulkhead. 3-car garage. For Rent ...... $3,300 Call 516-322-3555 Lawrence Renovated started & stopped. Buyer 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 250 Central Ave, #A202— 8/23, 3-4:30, . Far Rockaway: 2 Family. All NU, needed w/own final touch. $1M+ ...... $275K 3 over 1 Bdrm, 3 full baths. Great Dalia Fritz Realty 516-374-4411 Cedarhurst — NU House, CH Col., LR, Location ...... $599K Woodmere FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR., 3BTHS. Call 516-322-3555 846 Ibsen St — 8/23, 4-5:30, . . . . $539K 5 Town Homes 516-569-5712 Bsmt ...... $3,200 Cedarhurst: NU 2 Mkt. Lg LR, DR, 564 Saddle Ridge Rd — 8/23, 4-5:30, . . Valley Stream — Gibson Blvd — MIC 5 TOWN HOMES EIK, Den, 5BR, 3bth, Skilits, Cabana, ...... $649K Ranch By owner. 3 BR, 2 bths, LR, DR, 516-569-5710 Lg prop, IGPool, Walk to all . . . $659K 331 Edward Ave — 8/23, 2-3:30, . $649K den, EIK, office, walk to shuls and schools. SD 14. [email protected] 900 Mayfield Rd — 8/23, 12-1:30, $1.2mil Far Rockaway — Large One Bedroom Lawrence — Oversized garden apart- 950 Midway Dr — 8/23, 4-5:30, . . $799K ment. 1,000 square feet, 2 BR, 1 BTH, Apartment for rent. Beautiful elevator Hewlett — Col. MIC, 4br, 2bth, 2fpl, full www.pugatch.com 516-295-3000, 833-6004 LR, DR, many closets, hardwood floors, bldg. Nice tenancy. 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FDR, Library, Lawrence — Home on Broadway, close 5Town Homes 516-569-5710 5 Towns by reading Fin. Bsmt., Lg Prop., WALK ALL. to Far Rockaway. 5 BR, 3.5 Bath, ...... $995K Excellent Condition, By Owner. . $3,600 Far Rockaway — 2 BR, new kitchen, The Five Towns 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 516-302-7394 Jewish Times. new bth, near TAG and Shor Yoshuv. Call 516-374-3635 Far Rockaway – New to Market. Brick Cedarhurst: Office rental: Executive 2 side hall colonial, prime location, 4BR, Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., Far Rockaway — Newly renovated full finished basement, wrap around CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 Deadline is Monday house, new kitchen, 4 BR, 2.5 bths, big porch, deck, pretty property, at 5:00 p.m. yard, driveway, access to private ...... Reduced $649K beach. Call 516-672-4416 Far Rockaway — Brand New Building 1 Week ...... $35 Lawrence – New to market. Large by the Beach Luxury Apt. 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East Rockaway — 2 Emmet Ave. 10:30- Weissman Realty 516-791-6100 Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 Call: 516-569-0502 2:00 ...... $525K Hewlett — 343 Hewlett Pkwy 11:30-1:00 Lawrence — Coop Rental. 1BR. 1NU Neilson Street — Brand new construc- Fax: 516-977-0608 ...... $479K Bth, LR, DR, EIK...... $1,300 tion. 3/4 bedrooms, 2 full baths central air, laundry hook up, parking. No Or E-mail ads to: Hewlett Harbor — 1040 Channel Dr. 11-1 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 ...... $999K Rental Fee. Call Avromy, 347-752-0948 [email protected] Lawrence — 298 Ocean Ave. 12-2 . . . . North Woodmere — split-ranch 5 BR ...... $2.399M 3bth. top-rated schools. LR, FDR, EIK, Classified Ads are Include payment info. N. Woodmere — 727 Hillcrest Pl. 12:00- bar, playroom/ den, CAC, all appliances, 1:30 ...... $859K near synagogue. $2,500 per month. 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68 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

A Five Towns Simcha Photos By Ira Thomas Creations

Aron Kutner of Far Rockaway, a student at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, celebrated his bar mitzvah on Shabbos Nachamu.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 69 Simcha Gallery Photos By Ira Thomas Creations

Malky Kalikstein and Chaim Meir Strassfeld, both of Flatbush, were married at Razag on Monday, August 10. Music was by Ieshula Orchestras.

70 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES August 21, 2009 71 72 August 21, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES