Washtenaw Jewish News Presort Standard In this issue… c/o Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor U.S. Postage PAID 2939 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, MI Bicycling Chanukah Community Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Permit No. 85 in Israels Wonderland Photo Album: JCC Book Festival

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December 2009/January 2010 Kislev/Tevet/Shevat 5770 Volume XXXIV: Number 5 FREE False witnesses Art Aisner, special to the WJN t was a cloudless and picturesque morning in Ann Arbor, when the sunlight peeked I through the rustling leaves overhead and danced across rhythmic shadows along the pavement and grass lining Washtenaw Avenue. Between the sounds of squirrels scurrying across the fallen leaves and the occasional hum of the passing vehicle, resonated the clickety- clack of heels hitting concrete. A crowd of finely dressed people—many carrying talit bags and some with baby strollers in tow—hurriedly moved toward the crosswalks Henry Herskovitz Sol Metz Marcia Federbush Gloria Harb lining Beth Israel Congregation with purpose as this Sabbath was also Rosh Hashanah. Some a Jewish national home belongs on territory every holiday held on Shabbat. When their call And though the congregants avoid eye con- congregants were in deep discussion about the where Jews have lived for thousands of years, for reinforcements—publicized on Electroni- tact, they see them, without question. Some, significance of the Jewish New Year, while oth- whether in or out of power. cIntifada.org—brought few Jews, the group even when parking is at a premium like on the ers talked of lighter issues, like celebrity names For nearly seven years, the congregation of eventually acknowledged demographic reality High Holidays, park in the neighborhoods be- and schoolmate’s text messages. Ann Arbor’s most visible synagogue has been by adding to their name “and Friends.” hind the synagogue and walk along the side of In front of them, across the four lanes of subjected to the display of signs and the people On this day, among the holiest on the He- the building in order to completely avoid the Ann Arbor’s most heavily traveled roadways, who hold them. brew calendar, those in the crowd do their best demonstrators. wait four protesters with audacious signs aimed Originally calling themselves “Jewish Wit- to ignore the demonstrators and try not to give A crowd of synagogue officials greet con- for their eyes. One decries Israeli statehood, an- nesses for Peace,” the group has held “vigil,” as credence to the signs calling for Israel’s “con- gregants at the door to check their tickets for other puts down America’s support for it, and they call it, outside regardless of the weather, on trol” over Congress to end and that Zionism seating, and to make sure the demonstrators are every Saturday, on every bar and bat mitzvah, destroys Judaism. still another demonizes the Zionist belief that continued on page 26 Jewish Family Services to honor Judie and Jerry Lax on January 24 Community invited to JCC Staci Kennedy, special to the WJN Chanukah celebration ewish Family Services of Washtenaw of 1968 and married Margi Brawer, special to the WJN County will honor Judie and Jerry Lax three months later at The Latke Hop, a family Chanukah celebration, J with the Claire and Isadore Bernstein Adat Shalom Syna- will take place at the Jewish Community Center Leadership Award on Sunday, January 24, gogue in Detroit. Judie of Greater Ann Arbor on Saturday, December 2010. The event will take place at 3 p.m. in earned both a BA in 5, from 6–9 p.m. Highlighting this year’s event the Morris Lawrence Building at Washtenaw education and an MA will be surprise entertainment with nationally Community College. in special education known mystery musicians. There will be games This award is given each year to members from the University of and crafts; havdalah; dinner and live music; of the Ann Arbor area who have demonstrated Michigan. She enjoyed dancing; and candlelighting. outstanding community service. Past recipients a distinguished career Tickets for members are $12 for adults and include Ambassador Ronald N. Weiser and in education and in $5 for children ages two and older. Nonmem- Albert M. Berriz (McKinley Associates), Ken- development while ber tickets are $14 for adults and $6 for chil- neth Fischer; Phyllis and David Herzig,;and also devoting much dren. For reservations, call the JCC at 971-0990 Rachel Bendit and Mark Bernstein. The past of her life to volunteer or visit the JCC website at jccannarbor.org. recipients have graciously agreed to serve as work of all kinds. With the honorary chairs for this event. her father and several The theme of this year’s event, “Delightful, friends serving as role Judie and Jerry Lax Delicious, De-Laxes,” will set the tone for an models, Judie has spent her years in Ann Arbor the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor. afternoon of desserts, good cheer, and won- dedicating herself to many worthy causes, in- Jerry also attended the U-M, graduating derful tributes to a couple that has done so cluding Arbor Hospice, the Ann Arbor Public with a B.A. in philosophy and then moving on much to help and enhance the Ann Arbor Schools, Center for the Education of Women to Harvard Law School where he earned his Ju- community. (where she was both on staff and later a mem- ris Doctorate. Jerry has established himself as Detroit natives Judie and Jerry met in May ber of their board), Performance Network and continued on page 30 I Community

2935 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 Save the date: bike trip in Israel, November 4–14, 2010 voice: 734/971-1800 Eileen Freed, special to the WJN fax: 734/971-1801 The Jewish Community Foundation of Great- Nahalal, and the participation of members of e-mail: [email protected] er Ann Arbor has announced the Ann Arbor Nahalal in some portions of the ride. www.washtenawjewishnews.org Community Bike Trip in Israel to take place The trip provider, Ecobike Cycling Vaca- November 4-14, 2010. A committee, chaired by tions, specializes in bike tours in Israel and the Hillary Murt, is working with trip coordinators Mediterranean. Its co-founder, Amir Rockman, Editor and Publisher Rabbi Bob Levy and Eileen Freed to develop an has cycled across North and Central America Susan Kravitz Ayer exciting itinerary focused on northern Israel, and has guided tours in Israel, Turkey, and the Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. United States. During the past two summers, Calendar Editor “Cycling trips have become my preferred Rockman and Rabbi Levy co-led the Olin- Claire Sandler type of vacation,” said Murt. “This trip will Sanger-Ruby Union Institute’s “Wheels Around Advertising Manager combine my love of cycling with my interest in the Lake” program, a four-week teen bike trip Gordon White seeing parts of Israel not usually encountered on around Lake Michigan. “Amir is an outstand- a normal tour of the country.” There has been ing guide and really knows his bikes,” said Rabbi Design and Layout significant participation in organized cycling Levy. “His expertise and dedication will ensure Dennis Platte vacations among many in the community. This our group has an exceptional experience.” trip is designed to offer a similar combination An introductory meeting about the trip will Staff Writers Noa Gutterman, David Erik Nelson, of great cycling, interesting sites, and delicious be held Sunday, January 17 at 7:30 p.m. at the San Slomovits food. An added bonus will be a stay in Ann JCC. For more information, contact Eileen Freed Arbor’s Partnership 2000 community, Moshav at [email protected] or 677-0100. Contributing Writers Art Aisner, Jacob Berkman, Margi Brawer, Rabbi Lisa Delson, Sharlan Douglas, Emily Chaverim B’Shirim to perform at JCC on December 13 Eisbruch, Annette Fisch, Eileen Freed, Florence Gerber, Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, Margi Brawer, special to the WJN Ben Harris, Peretz Hirshbein, Susan Horowitz, Chaverim B’Shirim will perform composer Workers Union. It had the longest run of any Deborah Huerta, Jasmina Kelemen, Staci Harold Rome songs at the Jewish Commu- musical during the 1930s and the production Kennedy, Claire Kinberg, Dina Kraft, Chana nity Center of Greater Ann Arbor on Sunday, reflected a new socially conscious outlook that Kroll, Joan Levitt, Robin Little, Linda Morel, December 13, at 3 p.m. followed Roosevelt’s presidency. Rome wrote Merrill Polliner, Edmon J. Rodman, Mae Sander, Cindy Saper, Penny Schwartz, Gil Chaverim B’Shirim will perform selected several other revues and shows following Call Shefler, Dina Shtull, Ronnie Simon, Elliot songs from Rome’s popular Broadway musical, Me Mister throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Sorkin, Bert Stratton, Mira Sussman Call Me Mister, which ran for 734 performances and in 1982, he was inducted into the Song- in late 1940s. The musical celebrated the joys of writers Hall Of Fame. Chaverim’s B’Shirim The Washtenaw Jewish News is a free and inde- civilian life and gave expression to the post-war will celebrate Rome’s musical legacy at both pendent newspaper. It is published monthly, euphoria sweeping the United States. Chaverim their December concert and their spring con- with the exception of January and July. It is reg- istered as a Non-profit Michigan Corporation. B’Shirim director Marilyn Krimm promises cert in April 2010. Opinions expressed in this publication do not that the performance will be very enjoyable, es- Chaverim B’Shirim promises an exceptional necessarily reflect those of its editors or staff pecially the choir rendition of “South America, afternoon of music and song as they honor the Take It Away.” The choir will also perform ex- works of an exceptional songwriter. Admis- Member of cerpts from Rome’s The Zulu and The Zayda, sion is a $5 donation and refreshments will be American Jewish Press Association and Fanny at the concert. served. The event is sponsored by the Marilyn Rome’s first Broadway musical revue, Pins and Sam Krimm Musical Arts Fund. For more and Needles, was sponsored and performed by information about the concert, call 971-0990 or members of the International Ladies Garment email [email protected]. Plan now for March 2010 AIPAC Policy Conference Florence Gerber, special to the WJN

The AIPAC Policy Conference is the pro-Israel of its members nationwide, AIPAC has worked ©2009 by the Washtenaw Jewish News. community’s preeminent annual gather- with Congress and the Executive Branch on nu- All rights reserved. No portion of the Washtenaw Jewish News may be ­reproduced without ing. Register today and join more than 6,000 merous critical initiatives—from securing vital permission of the publisher. community and student activists from all 50 foreign aid for Israel to passing legislation aimed Signed letters to the editor are welcome; they should states, more than half of the Senate, a third of at stopping Iran’s illicit nuclear program. not exceed 400 words. Letters can be emailed to the the House of Representatives and countless Is- From March 21–23, 2010, Policy Confer- editor at [email protected]. Name will be raeli and American policymakers and opinion ence delegates will have the opportunity to withheld at the discretion of the editor. leaders. Past speakers includ Hillary Clinton, choose from dozens of informative sessions and Circulation: 5,000 Newt Gingrich, Steny Hoyer, John McCain, participate in the pro-Israel community’s largest Subscriptions: Benjamin Netanyahu, Barack Obama, and advocacy day. $12 bulk rate inside Washtenaw County $18 first-class su­bscription Nancy Pelosi. On Monday evening attend the Gala Ban- For more than half a century, the American quet with two thirds of Congress, foreign diplo- The deadline for the February 2010 issue of the Israel Public Affairs Committee has worked to mats and staff from the Obama administration. Washtenaw Jewish News is help make Israel more secure by ensuring that On Tuesday visit your congressional represen- Friday, January 8. American support remains strong. As Ameri- tative and Senators Levin and Stabenow. Publication date: Friday, January 27 ca’s leading pro-Israel lobby, AIPAC works with Register by December 31, 2009, to receive a Extra copies of the Washtenaw Jewish News both Democratic and Republican political lead- $100 early bird discount. For more information, are available at locations throughout Washtenaw County. ers to enact public policy that strengthens the check www.aipac.org or call Florence Gerber vital U.S.-Israel relationship. With the support at 973-2593. IIn this issue… Advertisers...... 39 Israel...... 14 Youth...... 16 Around Town...... 38 Kosher Cuisine...... 28 Vitals...... 39 Calendar...... 31 On Another Note...... 24 Women...... 4 Congregations...... 10 Seniors...... 5 World Jewry...... 12

2 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 ICommunity

Jewish Community Center to host Harvey Ovshinsky’s “How to Complete Your First Movie Script in Six Months” Sharlan Douglas, special to the WJN ave you ever dreamed about writ- (CAA) and optioned by Long- Michigan, Michigan State Uni- ing your own screenplay? Do you bow Productions (A League of versity, Eastern Michigan Uni- H see yourself as the next Larry Kas- Their Own). versity, Oakland University, dan (Raiders of the Lost Ark), Bruce Joel Rubin Harvey Ovshinsky and his Madonna University, School- (Ghost) or Nora Ephron (Julie and Julia)? How Ann Arbor-based video pro- craft College and Macomb do you start? Where do you go to learn how to duction and story consulting County Community College. write your first movie script? company, HKO Media, have His series of videotaped lec- The answer is the Jewish Community Cen- been awarded broadcasting’s tures, Letters to a Young Film- ter of Greater Ann Arbor where, starting in Jan- highest honors including a maker, is fast becoming a viral uary, local awarding-winning screenwriter and national Emmy, a Peabody, a sensation on YouTube and a documentary producer Harvey Ovshinsky will duPont-Columbia University popular teaching tool in many host his popular screenwriters support group, Award and the American Film film schools. “How to Complete Your First Movie Script in Institute’s Robert M. Bennett “We’re very excited that Six Months,” co-sponsored by the Michigan Award for Excellence. the Jewish Community Production Alliance. Ovshinsky has won awards Center can bring Harvey’s Ovshinsky’s group has been created specifi- at both the Toronto and San screenwriters’ group to our cally for aspiring screenwriters who feel the need Francisco Jewish Film Festi- community,” said Leslie for extra direction, motivation, and personal at- vals. His film about Franklin Bash, JCC executive direc- tention. “Although we teach the nuts and bolts, artist Arthur Schneider was Harvey Ovshinsky tor. “With so much interest learning how to write a movie isn’t that difficult,” honored at the Detroit Film Theatre at the in the state’s film incentives, more and more Ovshinsky said, “The real challenge for new or Detroit Institute of Arts and the Lenore Mar- people are looking for ways to tell their stories frustrated writers is what do you do, where do wil Jewish Film Festival. HKO Media has pro- in the form of movie scripts. We may be the you go for support while you’re actually writing duced videos for the Jewish Vocational Society ‘people of the book,’” Bash adds with a smile, your first screenplay? That’s the hard part and (JVS), the Jewish Community Council of Met- “but I believe history has shown that Jews can that’s where we come in.” ropolitan Detroit, and the Jewish Federation of also be very adept at putting pen to paper.” In the past, Ovshinsky has presented his Washtenaw County. Harvey Ovshinsky’s screenwriting group, popular “How to Complete Your First Movie “Harvey’s gift,” recalls Jeanette Keramedjian, “How to Complete Your First Movie Script in Script in Six Months” screenwriters group at former director of the Cranbrook PM program Six Months,” will meet at the JCC from 7–10 Cranbrook, the Community House in Bir- which first introduced Ovshinsky’s screenwrit- p.m. on the first Monday of every month, mingham and The Grosse Pointe War Memo- ing workshops and groups, “is that he combines starting on January 4, 2010, and ending on rial. The JCC is Ovshinsky’s first Ann Arbor his real world knowledge of the industry with a June 7, 2010. Participants will receive a sample venue. hands-on teaching style that is as nurturing and script, a complete bibliography of screenwrit- “’Every writer needs an address’,” said supportive as I have seen in any classroom.” ing books, publications, and contests, plus in- Ovshinsky, quoting Isaac Bashevis Singer. “So “For me, this work is deeply personal as well formation about helpful computer formatting do writing teachers, which is why I’m delighted as professional,” Ovshinsky said. “I believe each software. Also included is the latest version of the JCC of Greater Ann Arbor is our group’s ad- one of us has the power to light up the world Ovshinsky’s popular, The Ten Most Important dress in Washtenaw county.” with our stories. The trick is to find a way to First Rules of Storytelling. The Detroit News has described Ovshinsky fan the flames of our creativity so that others The cost for all six group sessions is $300 for as “one of the country’s finest storytellers.” He can see the light that shines inside.” students, and members of the Michigan Pro- wrote the award-winning script, The Keyman. Ovshinsky taught screenwriting and docu- duction Alliance. General admission is $325. To His Movie-of-the-Week script, PJ and the Drag- mentary filmmaking atWayne State University. register call Leslie Bash at 971-0990. For more on, was represented by Creative Artists Agency He has been a guest lecturer at the University of information, call 996-8011. n Co-founders of Hand in Hand Schools to speak December 9 Eileen Freed, special to the WJN ee Gordon and Amin which he was actively involved in Khalaf, co-founders of Jewish-Arab dialogue and part- L Hand in Hand Schools in nership projects. Gordon earned Israel will speak on Wednesday, an masters degree in social work December 9, at 7:30 p.m. at Beth from the Hebrew University and Israel Congregation. While there graduated from the Mandel In- is no cost for the program, pre- stitute’s prestigious School for registration is required. Educational Leadership. He cur- Hand in Hand Schools, rently serves as executive director founded in 1998, has grown to a of American Friends of Hand in network of elementary and mid- Hand which works to raise sup- dle schools in four locations in port and awareness of the schools Israel. The schools educate Jewish throughout the United States. and Arab children and offer a bi- The Federation has made lingual, bi-cultural curriculum. annual allocations to Hand in The talk, sponsored by the Jewish Hand since 2005, and has made Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, several visits to its schools in the will explore the state of integrated Galilee and Kafr Kana. The 2009 Jewish/Arab education in Israel Jewish and Arab school children at Hand in Hand allocation provides funding to and its future prospects as the school in the Galilee. implement a leadership and project enters its second decade. social justice program for sixth Khalaf currently serves as president of Hand Jewish public schools in Jerusalem and lectures graders in the Galilee school. in Hand. Born in the Israeli Arab village of on education at the David Yellin College of To RSVP, contact Cindy Adams at cindy@ Muqeble in the Galilee, he earned his bachelor Education in Jerusalem. jewishannarbor.org or 677-0100. For more of art and masters degrees at Hebrew University Originally from the United States, Gor- information, email Eileen Freed at eileen- in Jerusalem. He has taught in both Arab and don lived in Israel for two decades, during [email protected]. n

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 3 I Women

Jewish Women’s Circle meets for friendship, creativity, and learning Mae Sander, special to the WJN he Jewish Women’s Circle of Washtenaw ticipants introduced themselves by describ- County is celebrating mitzvot this fall. At ing a mitzvah (good deed) in her experience. T the meeting on December 7 at 7:30 p.m., One woman had recently made a major the group will make candles and talk about commitment as a volunteer at Jewish Family candle-lighting in Jewish tradition. Participants Services. Others mentioned small things like will also discuss the role of candles in celebrating taking a field trip with a child’s class, tele- Shabbat, Chanukah, and other festivals. The goals phoning an older or unwell friend, receiving of the Women’s Circle are to enable participants help with leaf-raking, or just giving a hug at to develop friendships, learn about a wide range the right moment. Esther Goldstein, who led of Jewish topics, and foster their creativity. the meeting, then discussed various mean- At the two earlier meetings this fall, par- ings of the word mitzvah, including ethical ticipants made challah and learned more and humanistic obligations and religious ob- At the Chabad House mikvah about its meaning, and visited Ann Arbor’s ligations. She then explained about the mik- mikvah and learned about this Jewish tradi- vah and its relationship to Jewish family life. All Jewish women in the community are tion and how it is continued today. Each of The group watched a video and toured the invited to the Jewish Women’s Circle meet- the first three Women’s Circle topics relates mikvah at Chabad House. Opportunities to ings, no matter what their religious affilia- to a particular mitzvah for women. ask questions and discuss the topic occurred tions or non-affiliations are. Organizers are At the challah-making meeting in Sep- throughout the evening. Esther Goldstein, Mimi Weisberg, and others. tember, old and new attendees had a chance The January meeting will be held on Organizers maintain a Facebook page, en- to get to know one another while sharing the Monday, January 25, at 7:30 p.m. The topic tries on community calendars, and an email experience of forming and baking the dough. embodies a change of pace: “Reflect, Relax, list to inform participants of activities and Twenty-four women came together for this Renew: Low Impact Yoga and Personal Re- the location of each meeting. For those who activity, including one who had just arrived flection.” In celebration of the secular New would like to sponsor the Circle, an annual by plane that day for a stay in Ann Arbor. Each Year, the group will explore a dimension of voluntary contribution of $54 is requested. participant made her own small loaf of chal- spiritual and physical activity through an There is a meeting fee of $10. n lah to take home. Esther Goldstein, one of the evening’s yoga practice with Ann Arbor yoga For more information about Women’s Circle organizers, says “As women we have the privi- instructor Rachel Portnoy. Attendees are events, contact Esther Goldstein at 995-3276 lege of making challah and lighting candles— asked to wear comfortable clothing in which or [email protected] or Mimi Weisberg at part of the mitzvah of honoring Shabbat.” they can do yoga and to bring a large towel [email protected]. To begin the October meeting, the 14 par- or (if they have one) a yoga mat.

Beth Israel Women’s League news ORT Chanukah party Florence Gerber, special to the WJN Joan Levitt, special to the WJN Beth Israel Cafe port on research that includes the Ann Ar- The Ann Arbor chapter of ORT America will The third Beth Israel Café sponsored by bor community and the households of Beth hold its Annual “Chai’Nukah” party on Sun- Women’s League will be held on Sunday, Israel Women’s League members. day, December 6, from 3–5 p.m., at the Com- December 6, from 9 a.m. to noon at Beth Is- Ochs is the author of numerous works, munity Room at Nature Cove Condominiums, rael Congregation. Men and women are in- including Inventing Jewish Ritual, winner of 2115 Nature Cove Court. vited to relax, nosh, and shmooz. Other Beth a 2007 National Jewish Book Award; Sarah The party will feature a Latke Cook-off, Israel Cafes will be held on January 17, Laughed; The Jewish Dream Book (with with participants sharing their favorite latkes February 14, and April 18, also at 9 a.m. Elizabeth Ochs); and Words on Fire. For her and the latke recipe. There will be prizes for the writing, she was awarded a fellowship from best latkes. There will also be a “white elephant December meeting the National Endowment for the Arts. She accessory” exchange. Guests should wrap a fa- Vanessa Ochs, research fellow at the was also scholar in residence at the most re- vorite, gently-used accessory, such as a scarf, University of Michigan Frankel Institute cent Women’s League Biennial Convention. purse, or jewelry, for a Chanukah gift exchange. for Advanced ORT members and prospective members are Judaic Studies Women’s League Chanukah Gift Shop welcome to join the fun. In the spirit of “Chai,” will explain Do your Chanuah shopping at Women’s all party-goers are asked to make an $18 dona- her research League Gift Shop on Sunday mornings or tion to ORT America. Rides to the party are “Beyond the Wednesday afternoons during religious available to those who need them. Menorah and school. For an appointment, call Doris ORT America supports World ORT’s Tzedaka box: Miller at 662-5926. schools and high-tech training programs in 62 How do Ob- The Gift Shop is selling all occasion cards countries, empowering 300,000 students and jects Make a (milestone, get well, mazal tov, condolence, beneficiaries annually. The cutting edge edu- Jewish Home special occasion, rejoicing, thank you, and cation acquired at ORT schools, colleges, and Jewish?” on new baby) to benefit the Jewish Theological international programs provide marketable Thursday, Seminary, Ziegler School of Rabbinic Stud- skills that enable students to attain successful December 10 ies, and the Schechter Institute of Jewish careers, become community leaders, and live at 7:45 p.m. Studies. All cards are $2 except for new baby, with dignity. ORT’s global network educates which sell for $3. Women’s League member individuals, impacts communities, and im- Vanessa Ochs at Beth Israel Congregation. Sherri Peller (994-4013 or sgpeller@com- proves the world. Ochs, associate professor of religious cast.net) will mail cards for purchasers for For more information or to RSVP, call studies at the University of Virginia, is an an extra $1 per card. Jeanne Thomas at 429-5948, or send an email anthropologist of Jewish life. Ochs will re- to [email protected], with “ORT RSVP” in the subject line. Hadassah Chanukah celebration Annette F. Fisch, special to the WJN On Thursday, December 17, at 7:30 p.m., the Ann Arbor Chapter of Hadassah will celebrate Chanukah at the home of Julie Ellis, 3929 Waldenwood. Attendees should bring a regiftable item for the “white elephant gift” exchange, and bring an appetite for latkes. Reserve by De- cember 13 to Martha Young, 769-7523 or [email protected].

4 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 ISeniors

SPICE* of Life *Social, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural, and Educational Programs for Adults December and January Thursday special events and presentations Tuesdays 11 a.m. – Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar. December 3 December 31 $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 12:30 p.m. Birthday celebration for all with Decem- 1 p.m. Come to the JCC for an hour of favorite comedian, Noon – Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person ber birthdays. Bring your family and friends for lunch and Jack Benny, the archetypal ongeblozen tightwad on video. birthday cake. 1 p.m. Mariko Foulke, social worker at the January 7 1 p.m. – Games and Activities. Join in for a variety of games University of Michigan Turner Clinic, will lead a presenta- 12:30 p.m. Birthday celebration for all with January and activities including mahjong, quilting, art projects, and tion and discussion on depression and older adults. birthdays. Bring your family and friends for lunch and other card games. *New* Bridge club at 1 p.m. December 10 birthday cake. 1 p.m. A representative from the Jewish 1:30 p.m. – Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group). Open 12:30 p.m. A registered nurse from Care Response Genealogical Society of Michigan will illustrate how to to the public as well as University of Michigan faculty, staff and will take and record blood pressures and address any get information about one’s ancestors. students, all ages and levels welcome. Beanster’s Café, ground floor, questions. Free. (This event is repeated the second Thurs- January 14 Michigan League. Free. For more information, call 936-2367. day of each month.) 12:30 p.m. A registered nurse from Care Response Thursdays 1 p.m. The first decade after World War II witnessed will take and record blood pressures and address any major changes in how we lived: family, housing, educa- questions. Free. (The second Thursday of each month.) 10 a.m. – Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar. $4 per ses- tion, music, appliances and work. Join the fun in remem- 1 p.m. University of Michigan School of Music vio- sion, or 3 sessions for $10 bering what you were doing back when. lin performance student, Paul Dryden Trapkus will per- 11 a.m. – Current Events with Heather Dombey. A Jewish December 17 form a recital. perspective on this week’s news. Bring items of interest for 11 a.m. Join the children, families and staff of the January 21 group discussion. JCC’s Early Childhood Center for an intergenerational 12:30 p.m. Allison Pollock, MSW, Jewish Family Ser- Noon – Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person Chanukah celebration including singing, dancing, crafts vices geriatric social worker will be available for discus- and discussion. sion, questions and assistance. 1 p.m. – Thursday Special Events and Presentations 12:30 p.m. Allison Pollock, MSW, Jewish Family Ser- 1 p.m. Arie Lipsky, musical director of the Ann Arbor (see box for details) vices geriatric social worker will be available for discus- Symphony Orchestra, returns to the JCC for music and 2:15 p.m. – Literary Group facilitated by Sidney War- sion, questions and assistance. discussion. schausky, Call Merrill Poliner, 971-0990, for more information 1 p.m. Rabbi Levy of Temple Beth Emeth joins SPICE January 28 and the current book. for Chanukah. 1 p.m. University of Michigan doctoral student, Fridays December 24 Tam Perry, will facilitate a presentation and discussion 1 p.m. Local stand-up comedienne, Paddy Ash, will on the various ways that the process of moving may af- 1:30 p.m.– Yiddish Reading Group at the Jewish Community entertain the group with her healthy humor. fect seniors. Center. Call Ray Juni for additional information at 761-2765

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Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 5 I Community

JStreet Conference historic event Jewish Family Services accredited by CARF Clare Kinberg, special to the WJN Robin Little, special to WJN everal Jews from Ann Arbor joined John Conyers, Dale Kildee and John Kilpat- ewish Family Services of Washtenaw zations measure and improve the quality of the overflow crowds at the JStreet rick. Each member of Congress was asked to County has been accredited by the their programs and services. SConference “Driving Change, Secur- make a public statement expressing support J Commission on Accreditation of Re- Following a two-day site visit in August, ing Peace: The First National Conference for for the peace process. habilitation Facilities (CARF) for a period of the CARF report was received in Octo- Progressive Pro-Israel, Pro-Peace Advocates,” The conference also marked the offi- three years. This achievement is an indica- ber. The report outlined multiple areas of October 25–28 in Washington, D.C. cial merger of Brit Tzedek v’Shalom with tion of the agency’s dedication and commit- strength at JFS, including: “The feeling there was of participating in JSteet. Brit Tzedek staff and members now ment to improving the quality of the lives of • Exceptional, dedicated, and forward-look- a historic moment,” says Tamar Weaver, an are field organizers for JStreet. Last year the the clients served. ing board of directors Israeli American and member of Ann Ar- campus-based Union of Progressive Zion- This accreditation • Positive, strong, and vibrant leadership ists (UPZ) also decision repre- • Knowledgeable, capable, highly-motivated merged with sents the highest and dedicated staff JStreet, becom- level of accredi- • Supportive funders who see JFS as a model ing the campus tation that can for other community agencies wing. The span of be awarded to an • Respect for the individual cultural diversity ages at the confer- organization and of clients served ence was noted in shows the organi- • Dedication to quality assurance and im- several reports; zation’s substan- provement young, old and in tial conformance to the CARF standards. An With goals of long-term sustainability and the middle came organization receiving a three-year accredi- financial viability, JFS will now be engaged together with a tation has put itself through a rigorous peer in efforts that leverage the capacity build- common agenda review process and has demonstrated to a ing and financial opportunities afforded by of supporting Is- team of surveyors during an on-site visit that CARF accreditation. These efforts include rael to reach a ne- its programs and services are of the highest moving forward with third party billing for gotiated two-state quality, measurable and accountable. reimbursement of services (i.e., assistance solution. The CARF International is an independent, with immigration and naturalization, sup- workshops and Rebecca Kanner and Aaron Ahuvia nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is port for aging in place and mental health plenaries were to promote the quality, value, and optimal counseling) that are covered by both govern- bor’s Brit Tzedek v’Shalom chapter. Weaver standing room only. Another participant outcomes of services through a consultative ment and private insurance providers. describes the experience, “The conference from Ann Arbor, Rebecca Kanner, attended accreditation process that centers on en- JFS received grants from the Jewish Fed- began for me with the greetings from Tzipi a workshop titled “How to Stop Talking to hancing the lives of persons served. Founded eration of Greater Ann Arbor, the Ann Arbor Livni, representing the largest Israeli political Ourselves,” in which Rabbi Melissa Wein- in 1996 as the Commission on Accreditation Area Community Foundation, and the James party and from Shimon Peres, Israeli presi- traub described her work arranging op- of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known A. & Faith Knight Foundation, that helped to dent… the atmosphere was euphoric—final- portunities for American and Israeli Jewish as CARF, the accrediting body established fund the staffing and other agency costs as- ly, American Jews coming together to show an leaders—including federation directors, rab- consumer-focused standards to help organi- sociated with accreditation. n interest in loving Israel and recognizing the bis, and even settlers—to meet with Palestin- different voices in the Israeli public.” ians in Israel and the West Bank. Fifteen hundred people attended the two- The delegates returned to Ann Arbor in- day conference, followed by a day of lobby- spired by the hope and energy of the con- JCorps founder wins first Jewish Community Heroes award ing on Capitol Hill. The Michigan delegation ference. Both the Ann Arbor Brit Tzedek By Jacob Berkman met directly with Representatives Sandor v’Shalom chapter and University of Michi- Levin and Mark Schauer, and with staff gan Hillel’s UPZ have several programs in NEW YORK (JTA)—After weeks of delib- JCorps as a volunteer on a budget that is people in the offices of Debbie Stabanow, the works for the coming year. n eration and the tally of more than 600,000 probably less than the award he will take online votes, the Jewish Federations of North home. Yet the organization has enlisted some America has named its first Jewish Commu- 10,000 volunteers for local community ser- nity Hero—Ari Teman, the vice projects in the United JFS partners with Red Cross for refugee awareness founder of JCorps. States, Canada and Israel. program on December 10 A panel of judges from “This will enable us to outside the federation sys- take in a lot more volunteers Mira Sussman, special to the WJN tem chose Teman, 27, for the rapidly without having to In celebration of Red Cross Red Crescent’s 150th $25,000 Jewish Community worry, ‘Do we have to slow it anniversary, the Washtenaw County Red Cross Heroes prize after whittling down because we can’t afford Chapter is participating in “Expressions of down a list of more than 400 to bring more people in?’ ” Humanity Week,” December 4–December 11. nominees. Teman told JTA. Jewish Family Services is partnering by spon- The Jewish Federations Teman said he started soring a one-night event, “Building New announced the choice Tues- JCorps in 2007 on something Lives—Refugees in Washtenaw County” on day at the closing plenary of a late-night whim about Thursday, December 10, 7-9 p.m. at the Ann session of its General Assem- how he could meet more Arbor Art Center, 117 West Liberty Street. The bly conference in Washin- Jewish people. event is free and open to the public. gon. The contest was part of The money will help the The Resettlement Program at JFS assists the federation system’s new Ari Teman program expand and per- refugees and their families with critical social multimillion-dollar marketing and rebrand- haps allow Teman to hire his first profes- services needed to ease their transition into a ing strategy to broaden its base of support. sional staff member. new way of living. With this help, individuals Teman’s organization sets up young Jews “The first year we started with $300,” he become self-sufficient and are able to create with volunteer opportunities in nine cities said. “We like to say that if we had no money a stable living environment in the Ann Ar- over three continents—all while working on we could still keep running, which is great, bor area. Since August 2008, JFS has helped ExprEssions of virtually no budget. because it means the money we put in is for resettle nearly 100 refugees, mainly from Humanity Teman, a standup comedian by day, runs growth.” war-torn Iraq, with hundreds more families December 4, 2009 through January 3, 2010 resettled from around the world since JFS began in 1993. Come hear first-person accounts from events, including lectures, panel presenta- Senior photography exhibit at JCC refugees of the Iraq War—their experiences tions, photo and art exhibits, go to www.jf- All photographers 55 and over are invited to submit recent photographs to the JCC’s Senior in Iraq, in transit, and here in Michigan. sannarbor.org or www.wc-redcross.org. Photography Exhibit. Photographers can submit up to six photographs of new work, any For other Expressions of Humanity Week size, suitable for hanging. Call Merrill Poliner at the JCC at 971-0990 for more information and applications.

6 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Local couple visits Jewish groups operating in Russia Eileen Freed, special to the WJN hen Sheldon and Geri Markel ming, YESOD houses a month. signed up for a University of an impressive theater “This was a very important visit for us. W Michigan alumni tour of Moscow and offers a range of It is important for people in Ann Arbor to and St. Petersburg, Russia, they thought they services to senior citi- be aware of the very difficult situation of the should see and learn more about the local Jew- zens including medi- elderly in the FSU as well as the impressive ish community. Since this was not a part of the cal consultation, a renaissance of the Jewish community,” said group’s itinerary, they turned to the Jewish Fed- hair salon, volunteer Sheldon. “A portion of the overseas alloca- eration of Greater Ann Arbor. Federation staff opportunities and hot tion made by the Jewish Federation goes to contacted the American Jewish Joint Distribu- meals. “The seniors are the JDC to pay for these necessary services. tion Committee (JDC), whose staff arranged a living on a very small I’m so glad I had the opportunity to see these variety of visits for the Markels. pension,” said Geri. projects first-hand.” Geri added that, “in spite The JDC operates a wide range of pro- “These services help of their heavy workload, the JDC staff was grams and institutions in the Former Soviet keep them involved in able to accommodate us on very short notice. Union (FSU) includ- the community and I was very impressed with their professional- ing Jewish commu- living a meaningful ism and the care they clearly put into every nity centers and a life.” aspect of our visit.” network of social JDC staff brought To learn more about enriching visits to service agencies for Markels do crafts with pre-school children the Markels to the Jewish communities while traveling abroad, senior services called at the Moscow JCC home of Bronislava contact Eileen Freed at eileenfreed@jewis- Hesed Avot. In Mos- Mikhailvona Rou- hannarbor.org or 677-0100. n cow, the Markels vis- dance, yoga, fitness, banova, a 79-year-old woman who is confined ited the Nikitskaya theater, art and a wide to her fourth floor apartment due to ill health Jewish Cultural Cen- range of Jewish classes and disability. “From the outside, the building ter (JCC) and were and experiences. “I looked fine,” said Sheldon, “but on the inside, impressed with the was quite impressed the paint was peeling and there was exposed range and quality of with the sophisticated electrical wire. The apartment was a tiny room programming. “The ceramics and anima- with a bed and a kitchen sink; not much more.” center was so busy; tion studios and the Roubanova, who survived the German siege Bronislava Roubanova (left) and her there was something quality of the work,” of Leningrad (St. Petersburg), never married, home care aide happening for every recalled Geri. suffers from epilepsy and other medical condi- age throughout the building,” said Sheldon In St. Petersburg, the Markels visited tions, and has no family to care for her. If it were of his visit. The center, located in a reno- YESOD, St. Petersburg’s newly renovated not for the 80 hours of home care a month pro- vated mansion, offers classes and programs “Jewish Community Home.” In addition to vided by Hesed, she would be completely alone Sheldon and Geri Markel in for children and adults of all ages, including a similar high level and variety of program- and unlikely to survive on her pension of $414 St. Petersburg, Russia JPros offers professional development Lullaby on Broadway Concert fitting memorial Merrill Polliner, special to the WJN Mira Sussman and Eileen Freed, special to the WJN On Sunday, October 25, the Jewish Community the seniors of the JCC. The concept of a mu- t may come as a surprise, but Ann Arbor’s towards strengthening professional service to Center of Greater Ann Arbor was host to five sical afternoon with a Broadway theme was Jewish community is home to a group that the community. performers from the Michigan Opera The- decided in honor of Steve Fishman’s long I exists in only eleven other cities in North In November, Steering Committee Chair atre’s Community Programs Department. For and successful career as a property master on America. Despite the community’s small size, Mira Sussman, represented the Ann Arbor 39 years, the Michigan Opera Theatre, one Broadway. Steve passed away on October18, it is home to something that Toronto, Atlanta, JPros at a professional development conference, of the country’s ten largest opera companies, 2009, and the concert became his memorial. Chicago and Detroit do not have—a group ded- “Professional Excellence in Challenging Times,” has been regarded as one of the finest cultural The performance, attended by over 110 icated to the continued education and develop- in Malibu, California. The conference featured resources in the State of Michigan. For 31 of people, exceeded the expectations of the con- keynote speaker Rabbi Mark Charendoff, presi- those years, the MOT’s Community Programs cert sponsors, organizers and audience with dent of the Jewish Funders Network. Breakout groups included “Negotiating the Multi-Gen- erational Workplace,” “New Approaches to Supervision in the Down Economy,” and “Building Community in a Digital World.” The Jewish Communal Professionals of Southern California organized the conference. In addition, Sussman participated in pro- gramming specifically designed for the fifteen local group leaders who represented their local chapters. They discussed successes and chal- lenges faced in local chapters, networked with Leaders of local Jewish professional de- peers, and discussed how to better guide the velopment groups gather in Malibu. local efforts. In Ann Arbor, the theme for the year’s pro- ment of its Jewish professional leadership. gramming is “Boundaries.” The group will ex- The local organization, Jewish Professionals plore how boundaries serve to protect those Paul DiPietro, Alice Fishman, and Michael DiPietro (center front) with members of of Greater Ann Arbor (aka JPros) is open to all working for Jewish agencies, as well as how to the Detroit Opera Theater. professional staff who work for Jewish agencies, overcome boundaries that hinder individu- Department has brought varied musical pro- a program that included selections of vocal synagogues, schools and organizations, and is als and agencies from better serving the com- grams to many groups in Michigan. music by Irving Berlin; Rodgers and Hart; in its third year as an active group. Members munity. Ann Arbor is blessed with a wealth What could have been a somber occasion Lerner and Lowe; Bizet; and Andrew Lloyd- run the gamut of professions; from rabbis to of Jewish and secular resources, and the JPros became an afternoon of musical pleasure Webber and a solo piano arrangement of administrators, teachers to development direc- Steering Committee looks forward to another during the “Lullaby of Broadway Concert” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The audi- tors, program staff to service generalists. JPros’ year of development for its Jewish professional sponsored by the Fishman-DiPietro fund. ence participated with a sing-a-long version mission is to enhance its members’ skills, facili- leadership. n The fund was created in memory of Sybil of “Always,” one of Steve’s favorite songs. tate communication among colleagues from Fishman and Pauline DiPietro, the mothers The Fishman-DiPietro family and the JCC different organizations, and encourage the For more information about JPros, become a fan on Facebook, or email Mira at mira@jf- of Alice Fishman and Michael DiPietro, with are looking forward to another concert in the highest professional standards and commu- the purpose of providing special events for series sometime in the Spring of 2010. nity esteem for its members—all with an eye sannarbor.org. Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 7 I Chanukah

Chanukah lights Chanukah Wonderland offered by Chabad Rabbi Ahron Goldstein, special to the WJN Chana Kroll, special to the WJN hanukah! The Festival of Lights. Most those days at this time. It also alludes to edu- ewish families looking for an interest- hello, to really be celebrating Chanukah to- of us learned the story of the Macca- cation and Torah study: the mitzvah of the ing and exciting way to bring the holi- gether as a community.” Cbees—how the few overcame the Chanukah candle teaches those who fulfill Jday of Chanukah to life won’t have far Some of the popular attractions that will many and the weak vanquished the strong. the commandment and instructs all within to look this winter. Local commu- Most of us learned the story of the miracle one’s “circle of influence.” What is this inno- nity member Shternie Zweibel— of the oil—the oil that lasted eight days. After vative teaching, this new order of Divine ser- known to many parents and kids defeating the Hellenists, when the Jews en- vice? Simply that, just as we increase the light as the director of Camp Gan Israel tered the Temple to rededicate it, they found of Chanukah each night, so, too, we must programs—will once again be using one small jar of oil, enough to light the meno- continuously increase our learning, increase her formidable organizational skills, rah for one day. It would take another seven the light of Torah we bring into the world. and her well-honed sense of fun, to days to obtain new, pure oil. They lit the me- Should be placed: The candles are lit provide the third annual Chanukah norah, and the lamps burned for eight days. where they are placed. And they are set in Wonderland in Ann Arbor. Most of us learned the story of Hannah place. Let them stand where they are, with- The Wonderland will be open to and her seven sons. And the story of Judith, out moving them or changing their position. the public from Sunday December 13 who beheaded Holofernes. Yes, there are Similarly, one’s Divine service—one’s order to Wednesday, December 16, with many stories associated with Chanukah, of learning Torah, one’s schedule of mitz- a live fire juggling show kicking many miracles, many lessons. voth—should be fixed, the routine of one’s off events on Sunday afternoon. But the lights themselves tell a story. Or life, installed in one’s soul. Throughout the week, there will be rather, they have something important to By the opening: This fits with the great a wide selection of crafts activities, say, a lesson that penetrates the darkness, principle of the Torah, “Love your neighbor games, live entertainment, videos, the daily distractions from holiness. As the as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). How should and other programming. There will previous Lubavitcher Rebbe said, “One must one perform the above mentioned Divine be a menorah lighting each evening listen to what the lights relate.” service? In an open way, a way that is seen, at 5:30 p.m.. This year the Chanukah One of the laws of Chanukah is: “The that enlightens (a true enlightenment—that Wonderland will be located in the Briarwood be returning from previous years include a candle of Chanukah should be placed by the of Torah and mitzvot), a way that influenc- mall in the Sears wing, next to H&M. chance for kids to dress up as Judah the Ma- opening (doorway), close to the outside.” es others, those “outside” one’s self. Which “There is really something there for ev- cabee and have their picture taken, and help The candle: What is the concept of a brings us to ... ery age group, and there is enough variety to build a giant Lego menorah. Also returning candle? One takes oil and a wick—physical Close to the outside: Chanukah, the me- keep kids interested throughout the week,” to the Chanukah Wonderland will be an ol- objects, and a person kindles these physi- norah, its message, Judaism itself must be reported Ann Arbor resident Stacey Lee, who ive oil press kids can use to make their own cal objects until they catch fire, producing placed near, made available to, all those who, took her then three- and six-year-old daugh- olive oil for menorah lighting, a candle mak- a flame that is visible to the physical eye. for whatever reason, are “outside” (albeit ters to last year’s Wonderland. “We went sev- ing workshop, a mini-kitchen where kids This tells us what we accomplish through temporarily) the concepts of Chanukah. This eral times last year and because of it we really (and parents) can make the latkes and jelly “a mitzvah (commandment) is a candle and means, those who are yet—momentarily— were able to keep up the excitement of Cha- doughnuts traditionally eaten at Chanukah, Torah is light” (Proverbs 6:23). The “mitzvah ”outside” Judaism in general. nukah all week,” she added. and a moon bounce. In addition, this year’s candle” produces a spiritual flame that will And may it be the will of the source of “A big part of this event is the community Wonderland will feature a computer center be visible to the physical eye in the times of life, who with His light, His Torah, instructs atmosphere,” said Zweibel, “and the chance it and new arts and crafts kiosks. In between Moshiach. us in our daily lives—may He give His bless- provides for Jewish parents to do what other activities, families can relax and have a bite to Of Chanukah: This alludes to the double ings to everyone, in matters internal and parents have always been able to do—to take eat at the kosher Chanukah Café. There will concept of dedication and education—the spiritual and matters external and public, in their kids to the mall and have a fun holi- also be a Chanukah superstore. double meaning of the word chinuch, from the most exemplary fashion. day experience, one that relates to what their The Wonderland will be open from which Chanukah comes. There must be a And may we receive the ultimate blessing, family is celebrating at home.” 1–7 p.m. on Sunday thru Wednesday . Any dedication and initiation of something new in a way visible to all, the complete Redemp- Lee concurred, saying that “It is so nice schools interested in bringing students on a in the celebration and establishment of ho- tion through Moshiach, when the menorah this time of year to have our own holiday field trip are invited to contact Zweibel—the liness, just as occurred when the altar and in the Temple will again be lit and send its space and to be able to go there, to run into Wonderland will be open from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Temple were dedicated—re-dedicated—in message—tell its story—to all mankind. n other families from the community and say for schools. n Ask the expert: Chanukah bush From MyJewishLearning.com uestion: My kids (ages 5 and 8) re- calling it a Jewish ritual item is like putting a lion ways that aren’t purely derivative of Christian Another way to focus the discussion is to ally love Christmas trees. They know mask on your dog, having him run around in traditions. Consider making your own win- remind your kids about all of the holidays on Qthat I won’t have one in our house your backyard and calling it a safari. dow decorations to help publicize the mitzvah the Jewish calendar. After Chanukah we have Tu because we’re Jewish, but recently someone told When you’re talking with your kids about this, of lighting Chanukah candles. Make Chanukah b’Shvat, then Purim and Passover. You can talk them about a Chanukah bush, and they’ve been you can discuss how Jewish holidays foods from scratch (latkes and suf- about the traditions that go with these holidays, asking if we can get one of those. How can I ex- aim to keep the traditions and his- ganiyot are Ashkenazi options, or and all the exciting and fun traditions that lead plain to them my discomfort with the tradition tory of the Jewish people alive. You try Sephardi/Mizrahi bimuelos and up to them, whether it’s making small gifts for without seeming like a Grinch? can look at other ritual items you atayef), and set up a dreidel tourna- friends at Purim or searching the house for cha- —Henry, Nashville might have in your home—a seder ment. You can even have a contest metz at Passover. nswer: Oy. I try to be impartial about plate, a siddur, a noisemaker, etc.— in your family to see who can make If you own a children’s book or game about these things, Henry, but I’m with you and talk about how all of them are the most interesting chanukiyah the Jewish calendar, now is a great time to bring when it comes to Chanukah bushes. connected to things in Jewish his- from things around the house. The it out. If you have family pictures from Jewish A tory. Then talk about a Chanukah eight nights of Chanukah are also a holidays in years past, this is a great time to look I just don’t like them. First of all, you might want to get your hands bush and how it really doesn’t have great opportunity to invite friends at them. Kids love looking at how much they’ve on the children’s book by Susan Sussman called a Jewish history at all. to celebrate with you. changed and grown up, and enjoy reminiscing There’s No Such Thing as a Chanukah Bush One thing that I think is helpful I think the key to really getting about how they celebrated holidays—buying Sandy Goldstein. The situation it deals with is in this kind of situation is focusing on the ways your children to enjoy all of these holiday activi- new clothes for Rosh Hashanah, eating together not precisely the same as yours, but reading the that your kids can celebrate with others without ties is to steer the conversation away from direct in a sukkah, etc. book might be a good way to start the conversa- necessarily taking on their ideology. Your kids comparisons to Christmas. Celebrating Chanu- As the secular year comes to a close, you can tion with your kids. can visit friends who have Christmas trees, and kah shouldn’t be about providing an alternative take the time to look forward to the whole cycle The concern I think most people have with can enjoy the trees that are out in public spaces. to Christmas. If you bill it that way, you’ll always of wonderful Jewish holidays that will begin Chanukah bushes is that they are too close for But they should do this to be happy for others, lose out to Santa and Christmas trees. again next year. n comfort to Christmas trees. There’s not much not to take on non-Jewish rituals as their own. Chanukah is about focusing on maintain- Good luck and chag urim sameach! The best way to combat Christmas envy is ing a Jewish identity even in the face of a strong difference between the two, as far as I can tell. For more information about Judaism and Jew- to amp up your own Chanukah celebrations in cultural current that defies that sentiment. Slapping a Jewish star on something and then ish life, visit MyJewishLearning.com. 8 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 New kids’ books hitting the shelves for Chanukah By Penny Schwartz BOSTON (JTA)—From all corners of the destruction of the Temple, with Chanukah, ed touch globe, to under the sea and above the skies, a recalling the rededication of the Temple. to this new crop of children’s books for Chanukah “It’s a wonderful way to close the circle old leg- takes readers on a worldwide spin with delight- and is a custom to be cherished,” she writes. end from ful and informative books for kids of all ages. the Talmud Menorah Under the Sea about a cave Hanukkah Around the World by Esther Susan Heller full of witch- by Tami Lehman-Wilzig, Kar-Ben, $17.95; ages 4-8 es, frightened illustrated by Vicki Wehrman Menorah Under the Sea is a photo essay- villagers, the Kar-Ben; $16.95 hardcover; $7.95 paper; ages 8-11 style book that follows the explorations of full moon and Move over latkes, make room for pre- David Ginsburg, a marine ecologist from a wise rabbi. Her cipizi. And sufganiyot, debla cookies and Los Angeles who takes readers on an adven- whimsical black- burmelos. These are among the traditional ture to McMurdo station in Antarctica. The and-white line il- sweets eaten in Jewish homes from Italy to journal-like narrative describes how Gins- lustrations, with Israel, Tunisia and Turkey during the eight- burg and his research partner, who arrived blue throughout, will day Festival of Lights. Recipes for the treats in Antarctica on the first night of Chanukah, delight readers; even are featured in Hanukkah Around the World use rubber dry suits to emerge under the the wicked witches are by Israeli-American children’s writer Tami treacherous waters. more slapstick than frightening. Lehman-Wilzig. The illustrated travelogue While collecting sea urchins and starfish Hirsh, who died of cancer in 1988, was a Happy Hanukkah, Corduroy takes young readers to eight faraway places for his research, Ginsburg is inspired sud- consummate professional and a uniquely tal- Based on the character created by Don Free- around the globe. denly to create a menorah on the sea floor ented artist, recalls the noted children’s writer man, illustrated by Lisa McCue First stop, the Israeli city of Modi’in, the using the neon-like sea urchins and starfish. David Adler, who worked with Hirsh while Viking, $5.99; ages 6 months to 3 years ancient biblical home of the Maccabees where Captured on film, and reproduced in the he was an editor at the Jewish Publication The popular, cuddly bear of the classic Don the Chanukah story began 2,000 years ago. To- book, the glowing menorah is a sparkling Society. Adler recalls that in the early 1980s, Freeman books enlists the help of his animal day the city comes alive to celebrate its beloved and inspiring wonder. Notes at the book’s though she was ill and hospitalized, Hirsh il- friends to celebrate Hanukkah, lighting the me- holiday with a relay race to Jerusalem and eight end explain that sea urchins are invertebrates lustrated the JPS’s 50th anniversary edition of norah, eating latkes, singing, and playing dreidel. days of kid-friendly festivities, Lehman-Wilzig and have no central nervous system. During The Adventures of K’ton Ton, the classic Jewish writes in an e-mail from her home in Israel. Ginsburg’s menorah assembly, readers are children’s series by Sadie Rose Weilerstein. A Chanukah Present for Me! Each of the eight cities featured includes a reassured that no animals were harmed. by Lily Karr, illustrated by Jill McDonald short fictional story that highlights local cus- The Amazing Menorah of Mazeltown Scholastic, $6.99; ages 6 months to 3 years toms, historical notes, current events and easy- The Rabbi and the Twenty-Nine Witches by Hal Dresner and Joy Fate, This brightly colored board book is pack- to-follow recipes. Back pages include Chanukah by Marilyn Hirsh illustrated by Neil Shapiro aged as a gift. Each two-board spread features potpourri from other locales and a glossary. Marshall Cavendish, $17.99; ages 4-9 Red Rock Press, $16.95; ages 4-8. a Chanukah tradition with large format words The custom that most impressed Leh- This is a republication of a Jewish chil- When Molly and Max find an old, grimy and collage illustrations. There are latkes, man-Wilzig was in Turin, where a custom dren’s classic, by the late Marilyn Hirsh, an menorah in their father’s junk shop, they dis- dreidels, chocolate gelt or coins, fried dough- connects the summertime observance of internationally acclaimed, award-winning cover the power of the menorah to transform nuts and, of course, colorful candles in a me- Tisha B’Av, commemorating the ancient artist and writer. Hirsh brings a light-heart- their dreary town in the dark days of winter. norah. In the end, a smiling family celebrates.

At Chanukah, lighting up the tzedakah stairway By Edmon J. Rodman LOS ANGELES (JTA)—What lights the Fes- degrees are like steps progressively rising; until we are approached. The idea here is to Jewish Food Pantry in St. Louis, where “con- tival of Lights? What really ignites the eight kind of an early stairway to heaven. cut down on the humiliation for the asker. fidentiality is strictly enforced,” illustrate this days, turning them into a hot winter glow? Proverbs tell us that a “mitzvah is a lamp.” Today, when institutions do much of the concept. As a giver, you know the items are Is it the oil, the candles, the songs, the lat- On Chanukah we can light up the nights with asking, the concept updates to what if Jewish going to someone in need, but they never kes, the gifts? giving. Consider each step of the tzedakah Big Brothers Big Sisters has to ask X num- know you. What would you give for an answer? stairway a candle that is lit each night; each ber of times in letters or e-mail before we No. 7: Anonymous giving and receiv- It’s dark and I am walking to Canter’s, a fa- light is an act of giving tzedakah, of doing respond? Each letter costs, ultimately dimin- ing. Anonymity is a tough sell today; we are mous Los Angeles delicatessen, to buy a half- justice in the world. ishing your contribution. trained from birth to put our names on ev- dozen bagels. I see by the blue and white cookies The lowest level is giving like a Grinch, The fourth step flips the third: Giving as erything. Historically, in the Temple in Jerusa- in their bakery window that it’s Chanukah. too little and with a cheapster attitude, as much as is needed before being asked. Think lem there was a darkened room, called “lishkat Near the entrance, seated on a crate, is a guy when a panhandler is in your face and you about it. This puts the giver on the lookout chasha’im,” literally a “chamber of secrets,” who appears to be homeless. Is this his home? feel put out. for tzedakah opportunities. It gets you twit- where the giver could leave money and the As I pass he holds out a paper cup and “Do I look like a sucker?” you wonder. tering with finds and on the street, taking poor would receive it without shame. shakes it. Coins jingle. “Isn’t there an agency for this?” you think. So note of Jewish social service storefronts. A tzedakah box, or pushke, is a related “Any spare change?” he asks. you flip him a dime. People put their entire energies into looking idea. Pick up a box from your favorite Jewish It’s an exchange that happens daily in big The countering Jewish idea in play here is for investments, why not tzedakah? Isn’t break- charity, or make one yourself, and join the cities and small, at the Mobil station, outside from Devarim, Deuteronomy: “Give to him ing the poverty cycle the best investment? righteous ranks of the famous unknown. the Piggly Wiggly, in the mall parking lot, readily,” it says, “and have no regrets.” The fifth step includes the previous elements The highest level, “exceeded by none,” outside the restaurant. No matter where or The second step is the sunny side of the and adds one more; giving tzedakah when you Maimonides tells us, is self-sufficiency as a how high up you live, it happens. It’s hap- first—still giving too little, but with a smile. don’t know the recipient but the recipient result of outright gifts, loans, partnerships or pened to me in Beverly Hills. Like when a condolence card comes around knows you. It’s like having your tzedekah la- “finding employment.” At a time when every The question is always same: “Do you at work and you pull a five out of your wal- beled “This gift brought to you by… .” dollar for the poor is debated, Maimonides have any change?” Yet our responses vary. let when it’s full of twenties. Devarim also This uneven equation allows for corpo- reminds us to “strengthen” the poor. At Chanukah time or anytime—on the tells us when considering the needy, “do not rate boasting about its contributions: Re- In many cities, Jewish free loan societies, street, at your door, in the mail or online— harden your heart and shut your hand … .” member those ads that ran after Katrina? Jewish vocational service agencies and inter- there are many ways you can respond to re- How much is too little? Hey, this isn’t a Still, it’s tzedakah. national agencies such as ORT help move quests for tzedakah. seasonal piece on tipping but on doing jus- Sixth step: The recipient is known to the people toward self-sufficiency. Handicraft Maimonides, the influential 12th centu- tice. Do you need an accountant to paint you giver, the giver is unknown to the recipient. workshops for the needy elderly and disabled ry Jewish philosopher, wrote that there are a picture? Talk about randomness. Imagine leav- such as Yad Lakish in Jerusalem, beautifully “eight degrees of tzedakah, each higher than The third step is giving as much as is ing a box of groceries at some unknown yet keep this concept alive. n the next.” That is, eight distinct, clarifying needed, but waiting until someone asks. needful person’s doorstep. Food pantries like (Edmon J. Rodman is a JTA columnist who ways you can respond to human need. The A tough standard, as most of us don’t give Sova in Los Angeles or the Harvey Kornblum writes on Jewish life from Los Angeles.)

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 9 I Congregations

Activities at Beth Israel in December and January Elliot Sorkin, special to the WJN Wednesday Lunch and Learn Tot Chanukah Dinner facilitated by Rabbi Kim Blumenthal. Ses- Rabbi Kim Blumenthal will lead On Wednesday, December 16, the Tot sions on the subject of Shabbat will take Wednesday Lunch and Learn sessions from Chanukah Dinner will take place at Beth Is- place on December 2, 9, and 16. The session noon–1:15 p.m. on a wide range of topics. rael starting at 5:30 p.m. Children kindergar- on Prayer will take place on January 13, 20, Participants are asked to bring a dairy lunch ten-age and younger are invited to celebrate and 27. The session on Conservative Judaism with refreshments and desserts being provid- the sixth night of Chanukah with a latke din- will take place on March 10, 17, and 24. The ed free of charge by the congregation. Check ner and dreidel games. There will also be arts sessions on Sacred Texts will take place on the Beth Israel Website (www.bethisrael-aa. and crafts, songs and stories to celebrate the April 21, and 28, and May 5. org) for the weekly topics. They will take holiday. Plus, all children will receive a small place on December 2, 9, and 16, and January gift. Families are asked to bring a Hanukkiah Overnight Homeless Shelter 6, 13, and 20. from their home for the candle lighting cer- volunteers needed emony. Reservations are required, and there Beth Israel Congregation will again par- Walking with God Part II—Medieval is a charge. ticipate in the Ann Arbor Shelter Associa- Texts through Modernity tion of Washtenaw County’s rotating shelter This course, designed by the Ziegler Junior Congregation/Moadon and program. From December 21–January 4, Eileen Pollack School of Rabbinic Studies, presents a wide Kehillat Shabbat on Saturdays Beth Israel will host up to 25 overflow guests range of insights and conceptualizations Junior Congregation provides a Shabbat (each night) from the main shelter on 312 W. published in 2008 by Four Way Books and was of God. Through exploring sacred texts of morning program for kids in first through Huron. Three to four volunteers are needed named the winner of the 2008 Edward Lewis various time periods, students will engage in fifth grade. It begins at 10 a.m. with Moa- each night, and two to three drivers are Wallant Award, which is presented annually to critical study and grow in their own relation- don, an opportunity for children to hang out needed each morning and evening to drive an American writer whose published creative ships to God. This course includes reading and play games led by the high school Mad- the guests to and from Beth Israel. work of fiction is considered to have signifi- one short essay in preparation for each ses- richim. At 11 a.m. there is a Shabbat service The men permitted to participate in the cance for the American Jew, in addition to be- sion. Each session will include some small for children that offers a mixture of teaching program are free of serious substance or ing shortlisted for the Sophie Brody Medal for group text study and discussion. Texts will be and prayer, and a chance for the children to psychological issues. Online signup will be Jewish literature, being chosen as a finalist for distributed in Hebrew and English. In order lead their own service. Junior Congregation available through the Beth Israel website, the Paterson Fiction Award, and winning a sil- to prepare materials in advance, registration will meet on Saturdays, December 5, 12, and ww.bethisrael-aa.org, or offline through Re- ver medal in ForeWord Magazine’s 2008 Book is required for this course. Contact Mary, at 19, and January 9, 16, 23, and 30. The in- becca Kanner at 994-5717. of the Year Awards. 665-9897 or email [email protected] by novative “Kehilat Shabbat” provides an en- The Shelter Association serves the larg- Pollack has received fellowships from the January 12, 2010, to sign up for the winter riched educational program and service for est percentage of those experiencing home- National Endowment for the Arts, the Mi- series. It is not necessary to have participated first through fifth graders exploring themes lessness in Washtenaw County: single adult chener Foundation, the Rona Jaffe Founda- in the fall series to join this course. All classes from the Torah portion and Jewish teach- men and women. All of the clients share two tion, and the Massachusetts Arts Council. begin at 7:30 p.m. with Maariv, the evening ing. Kehillat Shabbat is facilitated by Gabe characteristics: they have no place to live, and Her stories have appeared in journals such service. This class is faciliated by Rabbi Kim Pachter and meets on Saturdays, December they do not currently have the resources to as Ploughshares, Prairie Schooner, Michigan Blumenthal. The dates of the class are Janu- 12 and January 9 secure and maintain housing. Many of the Quarterly Review, SubTropics, Agni, and New ary 19, 26, February 2, and February 9. clients are unable to obtain housing on their England Review. Her novella The Bris was Saturday Morning Tot Shabbat own, because they are facing multiple barri- chosen to appear in the Best American Short Sweatshirt Shabbat with Cholent Tot Shabbat is held at 11:15 a.m. the sec- ers that impede their ability to do so. Stories 2007 anthology, edited by Stephen ond and fourth Saturday of most months for The Shelter Association offers a variety King, while her stories have been awarded Kiddush two Pushcart Prizes, the Cohen Award for This special Shabbat service and kiddush children through kindergarten and their fam- of services and programs to help individuals best fiction of the year from Ploughshares, will take place on Saturday, December 5, with ilies. Tot Shabbat is led on alternating weeks who are experiencing homelessness. Services and similar awards from Literary Review and the service starting at 9:30 a.m. Participants by Peretz Hirshbein and Jessica Kander, and range from providing emergency shelter, re- MQR. She lives in Ann Arbor and is the Zell may wear their favorite sweatshirt from camp, features songs and stories in a special Shab- ferrals for substance abuse treatment, cloth- Director of the MFA Program in Creative college, or travel while spending the morning bat celebration for the youngest members of ing vouchers, transportation, and food to Writing at the University of Michigan. in comfort. The reception following features a our community. Tot Shabbat concludes with providing health care, housing assistance, cholent sit-down kiddush with an internation- grape juice and challah and the saying of kid- and money management. dush and hamotzi. Afterwards, the families Mayor Hieftje at Beth Israel ally influenced array of hot and hearty cholents Award winning author Eileen Pollack On Friday, January 22, after the Friday plus other foods, prepared by Beth Israel mem- are encouraged to join the regular Kiddush On Sunday, January 10, 7:45–9:15 p.m. evening service that begins at 7:30 p.m., bers and Nikki Klein, the Beth Israel kitchen reception upstairs at a special tots table. Tot Eileen Pollack, Ph.D., will present “What coordinator. There is no charge for lunch. Shabbat will meet December 12, December 19, January 9, and January 23. There is no We Don’t Know about the People We Love Beth Israel Café charge for this program. Could Fill a Book” at Beth Israel as part of On Sunday mornings December 6 and Beth Israel’s Current Topics in Jewish Studies January10 from 9:30 a.m.–noon, parents (both Quiz Night Series. There is no charge for this program, men and women) are invited to come into the Beth Israel’s third annual Quiz Night will which includes refreshments. large Social Hall for a few minutes or the entire take place on Saturday evening, January 16 Pollack was born and grew up in Liberty, morning for free coffee and bagels. They may at 7 p.m. People will compete in teams for New York, the heart of the Jewish Catskills, use their lap tops (the entire synagogue is wire- fabulous prizes and to earn the coveted title where her grandparents owned and operat- less) socialize or read. The cafe planned and of Quiz Night Champions. The competition ed a small hotel and her father was the town sponsored by the Women’s League. includes multimedia trivia challenges, writ- dentist. A graduate of Yale University with ten puzzles, and friendly rivalries. There will a bachelors of science degree in physics, Latkepalooza be a dessert break midway through the com- Pollack later earned an masters of fine arts Latkepalooza is a Chanukah celebra- petition. The cost is $10 for adults, and $5 for degree from the University of Iowa, where tion extravaganza for all ages on Sunday, high school students. she was awarded a teaching-writing fellow- December 13, starting at 5 p.m. There will be a ship. She is the author of a collection of short Mayor Hieftje latke bar for dinner, featuring both traditional Judaism 101: An Introduction and a fiction,The Rabbi in the Attic And Other Sto- potato pancakes as well as exotic latkes. There Refresher ries, a novel, Paradise, New York, and a work Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje will address will be a community candle lighting ceremo- Judaism 101 is a continuing class meant of creative nonfiction calledWoman Walking the congregation at 8:30 p.m. Mayor Hieftje ny, games, crafts and activities. Entertainment for anyone who is looking to learn or review Ahead: In Search of Catherine Weldon and Sit- is the 60th mayor of Ann Arbor, and was will also include musical performances. some of the fundamentals of Judaism. Four ting Bull, which won a 2003 WILLA finalist elected in 2000. The evening will conclude with a “Latke– topics are still to be covered through the end award. Pollack’s essays, articles, and reviews The evening includes refreshments as part Hamantash” debate in order to determine of the course: Shabbat, Prayer, Conservative have appeared in many periodicals; her inno- of the Oneg Shabbat. This is a part of the dy- which form of Jewish cuisine is the most de- Judaism and Sacred Texts. Each topic will be vative textbook and anthology, Creative Non- namic new Shabbat Take the Time series. licious and the most emblematic of the Jew- explored for three weeks. Adults are welcome fiction: A Guide to Form, Content, and Style, ish people. There is a charge and reservations to sign up for one topic, a few topics, or all with Readings, was published in January 2009 are required. Contact programs@bethisrael- four topics. All classes begin at 7:30 p.m. by Wadsworth/Cengage. A new collection of aa.org or call 769-1651. with Maariv, the evening service, and are stories and novellas called In the Mouth was continued on next page

10 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Temple Beth Emeth Programs Rabbi Lisa Delson, special to the WJN continued from previous page Movie Tuesdays Music Man at the Michigan Theater, home, and destination through the lens of Is- December 8 and January 12 at 1 p.m. rael as an eternal idea and also a modern na- December 25 tion state. Feel free to stop by for one or all of Movie Tuesday is a free way to explore Ju- Continuing an annual tradition, TBE will the sessions with a lunch. Adult Hebrew Classes at Beth Israel daism and Jewish culture through film and bring the musical, Music Man, to the Michigan Beth Israel Congregation is offering 12- discussion for those with flexible schedules. Theater the morning of December 25. This week Adult Hebrew classes this winter be- Spirituality Book Club In December, participants will watch Trem- is more than just a morning at the movies. ginning the week of January 4, with various Join Cantor Annie Rose as she leads a journey bling Before God, a documentary that includes Doors open at 10 a.m. and bagels are available levels of difficulty. New students are asked through nine books over nine months on the first interviews and follows several gay and lesbian for breakfast. The movie begins at 10:30 a.m., to meet with the instructor to determine Tuesday of each month, from 7:30–9 p.m. Orthodox Jews, and also interviews several and pauses for a lunch intermission when ko- the best class for their backgrounds. There The class is designed with everyone in rabbis and psychologists regarding their views sher hot dogs (and veggie dogs) are available are five levels of conversational Hebrew and mind: firm believers, non-believers, gentle on homosexuality in Orthodox Judaism. In for purchase. Door prizes, a sing-a-long, and three levels of biblical Hebrew. There is one skeptics, or interested seekers. December’s January, participants will watch The Lemon a morning of community camaraderie are in beginning Hebrew reading class in the after- book is A New Earth, by Eackhart Tolle. Ac- Tree, an Israeli drama depicting the lives of store for everyone in attendance. Tickets are noon. Contact Mary at Beth Israel to receive cording to Tolle, humans are on the verge of Palestinians and Israelis and their struggle $7 per person, and are available in advance the full brochure [email protected], creating a new world by a personal transfor- to come to grips with family history, politi- both in the TBE office and on line at www. or call 665-9897. Anyone in the community mation that shifts one’s attention away from cal strife, the beauty of the land, and love. All templebethemeth.org. is welcome to join these classes. There is a movies are free and open to the public. Child one’s ever-expanding ego. Naturally, the au- tuition fee. care is available with advanced notice. Bible, Morality, and the 21st Century thor understands his material so thoroughly The classes are taught by two veteran He- that he is able to convey it in an enjoyable brew instructors, Malli Holoshitz and Pauli Tot Chanukah-Tot Shabbat—stories, with Dr. Cobi Sacerdoti manner, but Tolle’s gentle tone and dialect Mondays, January 11, 25, and February 8, Weizman. Holoshitz is a native Israeli who begs his audience’s attention simply through music, crafts and latkes from 7:30–9 p.m. has taught Hebrew for many years; she is its straightforward approach. Friday, December 18, at 5:30 p.m. TBE will host a three-part course on noted for her lively and animated teaching January’s selection is Kitchen Table Wis- The Tot Shabbat Service for the last night Bible, Morality, and the 21st Century. This style. She earned a Ph.D. in education from dom by Rachel Remen. Remen has a unique of Chanukah will include lighting the menorah course is an intellectual look and an emo- the University of Michigan, and teaches at perspective on healing rooted in her back- and special stories for Chanukah. After the ser- tional journey into the moral wisdom of the the Frankel Jewish Academy of Metro De- ground as a physician, a professor of medi- vice, all are invited to stay for the Tot Chanukah Bible where arrogance, pride, jealousy, love, troit. Holoshitz also teaches at the School of cine, a therapist, and a long-term survivor celebration with crafts, songs, and the normal and devotion impact human life. This class Education at Eastern Michigan University, of chronic illness. In a deeply moving and tot Shabbat dinner ($5) that will include lat- will discuss the way Jewish ancestors’ moral as well as at the University of Michigan. down-to earth collection of true stories, kes. Reservations are encouraged to help with faults and strengths can shape present day Weizman has been teaching Hebrew at this prominent physician shows life in all its planning quantities, but are not necessary. To Jews and be a lesson in the 21st century. Dr. the University of Michigan since 1987, and power and mystery, and reminds the reader reserve, call the TBE office, at 665-4744. Sacerdoti will discuss three Bible stories; the is the recipient of an “Excellence in Edu- that the things one cannot measure may be Tower of Babel (how arrogance diminishes cation” award by the Department of Near the things that ultimately sustain and enrich Shabbat Chanukah service wisdom), The Twelve Spies (seek the truth, Eastern Studies. She is a native Israeli and Friday, December 18, at 7:30 p.m. one’s life. do not hide behind a lie), and Absolam’s Re- has earned two masters degrees — one in Celebrate Shabbat at TBE on this last night of The book club is free to join, with the ex- bellion (nobody can acquire honor by doing Teaching English as a Second Language and Chanukah, and join in the tradition of lighting ception of the cost of the books. Books are what is wrong). the other in social work; she also has a bach- dozens of menorahs at the end of the service. available on amazon.com or through other Dr. Sacerdoti, an Israeli-born scholar, elor’s degree in Hebrew linguistics. booksellers. Sign up for the book club by Renaissance Group activities taught Hebrew language and literature at the emailing Cantor Annie Rose at cantorannie@ World Wide Wrap Temple Beth Emeth’s Renaissance Group, University of Michigan and was the depart- gmail.com. On, Sunday, February 7, at 9:30 a.m., for members ages 55 and up, meets monthly ment head of Hebrew at the Frankel Academy Beth Israel Men’s Club will sponsor locally for social gatherings. On Saturday, December of Metropolitan Detroit. She has published Mourning and Mitzvah the “World Wide Wrap.” This program is a 12, at 7 p.m., the annual Chanukah Party pot- many books and articles on a wide range of This course, offered Thursdays in January project of the Federation of Jewish Men’s luck dinner and "white elephant" gift exchange Jewish topics as well as Israeli life. at 7:30 p.m., provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Jewish mourning Clubs and encourages Jews around the will take place at the Chapel Hill Clubhouse. Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Robert Levy world to put on tefillin and pray together. On January 9, the group will attend the opera, customs and practice through reading, dis- Fridays, January 8 through February 26, Beth Israel will provide extra sets of tefil- Der Rosenkavalier, in the series “LIVE at the cussion and writing. It is designed for those at noon lin and experienced tefillin teachers will be MET” on the big screen at Quality 16 Theater. who have experienced loss as well as those “Issues of Israel over Time and Space.” available to assist anyone (man or woman) Tickets are $17.50 for seniors over age 62 and seeking knowledge and insight into this im- Each week Rabbi Levy will lead a discussion who would like to participate in this impor- $22 for others. Contact Judith Rose or the portant aspect of Jewish life. The course is on Israel as a hope, dream, fantasy, power, tant mitzvah. TBE office, 665-4744, for details. free, but there is a charge for the textbook. Beth Israel is known for its post service Polar Bear Tefillin Photo that captures all the tefillin-clad participants in the out-of- doors, regardless of the weather. Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah’s Simchat Torah Following the Shaharit service, partici- Brayan Zivan studies the Torah, part of the Ann Arbor pants will be served a brunch of bagels, lox, Reconstructionist Havurah’s Simchat Torah celebration, and coffee. Beth Israel’s sixth grade Bar/Bat which took place at its annual retreat. Havurah member Mitzvah program and the seventh graders Debbie Field looks on, as she helps hold up the scroll. will join in the morning. The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs is an organization of approximately 270 Con- servative/Masorti Jewish men’s groups con- sisting of 25,000 individuals across North America and the world. The FJMC involves Jewish men in Jewish life by building and strengthening Men’s Clubs in the Conserva- tive/Masorti Movement. General community is always welcome to events All of Beth Israel’s events, plus all edu- cational offerings are open to the general community, often at no cost. For further information, call 665-9897 or visit www. bethisrael-aa.org.

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 11 I World Jewry

Crime, plus politics, propelling Jews out of Venezuela By Jasmina Kelemen CARACAS, Venezuela (JTA)—Esther Benchi- residents. Official statistics are hard to come Jewish community has fallen from a high of While Gamus insists that her home is in mol de Roffe arrived in Venezuela as a young by because the government has stopped pro- about 20,000 members to the oft-cited fig- Venezuela, the younger generation of her bride, leaving northern Morocco more than viding details. ures of 13,000 to 10,000, according to local family has mostly left the country. All of her 50 years ago to meet her groom in a prosper- In order to gauge crime, journalists rely Jewish activists. children, nieces and nephews live abroad to ous foreign land. on the city morgue in Caracas to report how Throughout his decade in power, Chavez escape the security situation, she said. The young couple fit in easily in a country many bodies arrived over the weekend as has referred to the United States as imperial- While not explicitly anti-Semitic, local where, as Spanish-speaking Sephardim, they al- the result of violence, publishing their tally ist and belligerent. Following Israel’s incursion Jews fear Chavez’s constant barrage of anti- ready were familiar with the language and the in newspapers on Monday mornings. In into Gaza last winter, Chavez severed diplo- Israeli discourse could breed hostility to- Jewish community was established. Her hus- one wave of week- matic ties with Israel wards their community, adding another layer band built a successful business, and Benchi- end violence in early and ratcheted up his of stress in a city where many citizens already mol raised a family and earned international October, 56 people It’s not anti-Semitism that rhetoric against the feel helpless coping with one of the highest renown singing the ancient Sephardic hymns were reported mur- Jewish state. He refers murder rates in the world. she had learned as a child in Alcazarquivir. dered in this city of causes her to fear daily for the to Israel as a genocidal “There’s a lot of fear that there could “It was a rich country, there were a lot of just over 4 million state. Once he referred be an attack against the community,” said opportunities,” reminisces Benchimol, now people. safety of her grandchildren but disparagingly to Co- Camila Roffe de Levy, a 51-year old biologist 74. “We had many friends and there was a In addition to lombia as the region’s in Caracas and Benchimol’s daughter. real sense of brotherhood. There was never murder, kidnap- “la inseguridad”—insecurity. “Israel” while voicing “No one has attacked us,” she explained. any racism against us.” pings for ransom—a his displeasure at an “It’s not the people, nor your neighbor nor Her tone changes, however, when she source of high anxiety for the city’s wealthier agreement to allow the U.S. military access to the guy who lives down the street from you. considers the futures of her grandchildren inhabitants—are said to be on the rise. Jews Colombia’s military bases. But what scares us is this anti-Israeli dis- and whether she would advise them to stay say they feel at particular risk due to the per- Meanwhile, he’s built friendships with and course that could be wrongly interpreted by in Venezuela. ception that the Jewish community can pony welcomed the presidents of Iran and Libya, people who don’t know any better.” “I wouldn’t stay here,” Benchimol said. up a large ransom for a kidnapped Jew. part of what he has described as his efforts to A lawyer who divides her time between “I’m speaking as a grandmother.” Yair Rosemberg, a 28-year old theater pro- build a counterweight to U.S. “hegemony.” Miami and Caracas says there is a general It’s not anti-Semitism that causes her to ducer, is less than a month away from getting Venezuelan Jews say there is a wide gap breakdown of trust toward the government, fear daily for the safety of her grandchildren married. Where crime was once regarded as between the president’s anti-Israel rhetoric which she feels both as a Venezuelan citizen but “la inseguridad”—insecurity. It’s the gen- something he read about in the papers, now and the attitudes of the Venezuelan people and even more so as a Jew. eral term Venezuelans use now to describe it has touched a growing number of his ac- toward Jews. Venezuela has not seen the an- She requested anonymity due to her work an unrelenting crime wave that cuts across quaintances, he said. ti-Semitism that exists in some other Latin promoting human rights in Venezuela. the country’s economically and ideologically He and his fiancee probably will move to American countries. Since the synagogue attack last January, au- polarized society. The issue consistently tops Israel after they are married; the couple re- “I would rather be a Jew here than in thorities have stepped up protection at Jewish surveys here as Venezuelans’ biggest concern. cently returned from a trip there to explore Spain,” said Paulina Gamus, a local politi- houses of prayer. Many said they were pleased Venezuelan Jews say that as citizens of their options. Rosemberg cited it as his main cal commentator and outspoken critic of with the security provided during Yom Kippur. a state in which many have lost faith in the reason for wanting to leave. Chavez, responding to a question about But that day, while many Jews were in syna- police and judicial system, they fear random That fear, combined with President Hugo whether Venezuela is still safe for Jews. gogue, Chavez praised Libyan President Muam- violence far more than anti-Semitic attacks. Chavez’s verbal broadsides against Israel and “There, anti-Semitism is among the peo- mar Gadhafi and invited him to speak on national They consistently cite crime as their main still fresh memories of a shocking assault last ple. Here, with all of the government’s hostil- television in a ceremony that all of the nation’s source of anxiety. January against the community’s main syna- ity, the people aren’t hostile.” she adds. “There public channels were forced to broadcast. Last year, Foreign Policy magazine called gogue, Tiferet Israel, is prompting many Jews isn’t a personal sense of anti-Semitism.” “With this man [Chavez] you just never Caracas the murder capital of the world, tal- here to consider whether there is a future for Gamus is the only Jew to have served in know,” said Benchimol. “It’s not something lying the homicide rate at 130 per 100,000 them in Venezuela. Over the past decade, the Venezuela’s National Assembly. you can understand. It’s unpredictable.” n

Vienna’s Jews look to immigration to boost declining numbers By Ben Harris VIENNA (JTA)—From a shelf in his office, Over the past two decades, Jewish com- of members to support it. Knapp pegs the en to pin its hopes on a significant Russian- Ariel Muzicant extracts a weathered copy of munities in Western Europe whittled down target at about 25,000. speaking immigration. The few Jews that are a May 1985 community newsletter whose by intermarriage and assimilation have sus- “Communities which today are below coming to Vienna, he says, are from smaller cover sports a graph depicting the Jewish tained themselves with immigration by Jews 10,000 don’t have the critical mass to sur- communities with fewer religious options, population of Vienna nosediving. from the East, where communism had left vive,” Muzicant said, noting that perhaps a such as Germany. He concedes the number is From its postwar peak of about 9,000 in Jews trapped until the fall of the Iron Cur- third of European Jewish communities are quite modest but says it could be increased. the early 1960s, the graph projected the Jew- tain. The largest pool of potential immi- in a situation similar to Vienna’s and are in Yvonne Feiger, 28, the director of the Jew- ish population dipping below 5,000 by the grants, from the former Soviet Union, have danger of disappearing. ish Salons chapter in Vienna and a member turn of the millennium. been migrating West in significant numbers In trying to draw more Jewish immigrants of the community board, said the idea of im- Nearly a quarter-century after that dire since the fall of communism. from the former Soviet Union, Austria’s Jews migration to save Austrian Jewry is absurd. prediction, the worst has been avoided: The Skeptics in Vienna say it’s a mistake to are looking with both envy and trepidation Instead, the community should focus its number of registered community members pin the community’s future on the hope that at Germany, their neighbor to the north. resources on the Jews who already live here in Vienna stands at about 7,500 and, accord- more Russian-speaking immigrants will ar- Some 120,000 Jewish immigrants from the and, she believes, are not well served by exist- ing to Muzicant, the community president, it rive here. former Soviet Union have transformed Ger- ing community institutions. is “technically growing.” “Those who wanted to come, came,” said man Jewry and, by some accounts, saved it “They’re not very good at finding creative But leaders of the Viennese Jewish com- Rabbi Nechemia Rotenberg, the religious from oblivion. answers instead of just saying what is bad,” munity, Muzicant among them, again are principal of a Jewish high school in Vienna Knapp, whose school, Jüdisches Beru- Feiger said. warning of disaster unless the community who also works on continuity issues as the fliches Bildungszentrum, helps train and Muzicant, a real estate executive with a increases its ranks. And the consensus on director of Zehut (“Identity”). assimilate Viennese Jews into the Austrian somewhat fearsome reputation, is unlikely how to do it can be summed up in a single Current projections show the total popu- job market, is confident the community can to be dissuaded by such views. word: immigration. lation of Austrian Jews declining by half in absorb a large influx more successfully than During an interview with JTA in his of- “We need people,” said Ilan Knapp, prin- the next 10 to 30 years—a prediction that Germany did. fice in the city center, Muzicant cited the cipal of a Jewish vocational high school in appears to vary largely on the degree of pes- “They have the people but not the institu- many times during his long communal ca- Vienna and the head of a communal com- simism of those making it. Vienna’s sub- tions,” Knapp said. “We have the institutions reer in which his ideas were dismissed as pipe mission working to bring Jewish immigrants stantial Jewish infrastructure—four schools, but not the people.” dreams only to be eventually realized. to Vienna from the former Soviet Union. more than a dozen synagogues and an array Neither Muzicant’s diagnosis nor his so- “Part of my success is not genius,” he said “The only possibility is to bring Jews from of Jewish welfare agencies—are in danger if lution are universally accepted in Vienna. with the faintest glint in his eye. “It’s being this area.” the community cannot amass a larger pool Rotenberg says the community is mistak- stubborn.” n

12 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 IArts and Culture

REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK: 20 YEARS AGO What the use of Yiddish phrases can tell The change has come to Jewish life in us about contemporary American Jewry Eastern Europe By Marissa Brostoff By Ruth Ellen Gruber NEW YORK (Tablet)—The results are in: the from Jews elsewhere on the spectrum. With the words “shpiel” and “klutz” have been thorough- exception of those fervently Orthodox Jews ROME (JTA)—Covering the development of and a gentile mother who survived the war. As ly absorbed into the American vernacular, while who use Yiddish as their primary language, Jewish life in Europe in the 20 years since the fall an adult, Sidon formally converted and escaped “mensch” and “kvetch” remain primarily in the Benor said, American Jews fall somewhere on of communism, I have witnessed many land- to Germany, where he studied Judaism in the linguistic domain of Jews. A third of Jewish this “continuum of distinctiveness” rather than mark moments. 1980s before completing his rabbinical studies Americans who did not grow up in New York being separable into different dialect groups. Among them are many “firsts”—the first in Israel. have nonetheless been told that they sound “My favorite example is ‘gmar cha-tee-MAH rabbis to take up their posts, the first bar mitz- Sidon, who is Orthodox, is still Prague’s like they’re from that city. Sixty-eight percent to-VAH,’ ” she said, enunciating each syllable of vahs and Jewish weddings in decades, the first chief rabbi, though he was ousted briefly in of Reform Jews pronounce the word for the the traditional Yom Kippur greeting: in Eng- new synagogues, the first kosher restaurants, the 2005 during bitter infighting between Jewish annual Jewish harvest festival “soo-COAT,” as lish, “May you be inscribed in the book of life.” first Jewish schools, etc. community factions. Israelis do, while only 34 percent use the Yid- “That’s the most modern Hebrew pronuncia- There were also the first conflicts between “I remember when all of us would be hid- dish pronunciation “SUK-kiss”; among the fer- tion you can get. Then there’s ‘gmar cha-TEE- Reform and Orthodox, between young genera- ing in one synagogue and leaving in a way vently Orthodox, those numbers are basically mah TO-vah,’ ‘gmar cha-SEE-mah TO-vah,’ tions and the establishment, between rival Jew- that no one would spot us,” said Peter Gyori, reversed. And gay non-Jews use more Yiddish and then ‘gmar ch’SEE-mah TOY-vah.” ish factions struggling for communal power. deputy chair of the Federation of Czech Jew- than straight non-Jews, though gay Jews and For those in the know, each pronunciation Sometimes the ish Communities and straight Jews use about the same amount. signifies a different spot on the religious con- symbolism was over- also head of the non- These are just a few findings of the Survey tinuum: a non-Orthodox Jew probably would whelming: Jewish life Orthodox Beit Praha, of American Jewish Language and Identity, the use the modern Hebrew pronunciation; as you and free expression of In July 1995, a conference was recalling the bad old results of which were published online late last move along the spectrum of observance, the Jewish identity were re- days when almost held in Prague to plan strategy month by linguist Sarah Bunin Benor and so- greeting becomes more Yiddish-inflected. emerging in the one- anything Jewish was ciologist Steven M. Cohen. Dozens of surveys One of the key findings of the survey was time Jewish heartland, suppressed or suspect. for the future of Jews in Europe. about American Jews have come out the past what Benor and Cohen call “the growth of lin- in countries whose “We live now in few decades—but this is a rare one that shows guistic distinctiveness among the Orthodox.” Jewish populations the luxury of ‘fighting’ rather than tells. Instead of asking respon- Distinctive strains of Yiddish-inflected English had been decimated by the Holocaust and where among various communities and groups,” he dents how religious they are or whether their are not only still in everyday use among younger a Jewish presence was long considered a closed said, “and not going to this or that synagogue.” grandchildren will be Jewish, Benor and Cohen generations of Orthodox American Jews, their chapter of history. In July 1995, Prague was the scene of another asked questions like, “When you say ‘Mary’ and prevalence is growing. Take the phrase, “She’s The image it often conjured up for me was first—the first conference since the Holocaust ‘merry’ in regular speech, do they sound the staying by us,” which borrows a Yiddish gram- of fragile tendrils emerging through ashes. that was dedicated to planning strategy for the fu- same or different?” and “How do you refer to matical construction to mean, “She’s staying Over time the tendrils took hold. The new ture of Jews in Europe. It may seem odd to single the Jewish skullcap?” By hitting the question of at our place.” Fifty-three percent of Orthodox life they represent is still delicate and still needs out a conference as one of the key moments of Jewish identity at a slant rather than head-on, Jews who took the survey use the phrase (versus a lot of nurturing—financial and otherwise. Jewish development in post-communist Europe. the researchers have come up with an unusu- 21 percent of non-Orthodox Jews). But a full Eastern Europe’s emerging Jewish communi- But this one, called “Planning for the Future of ally nuanced portrait of contemporary Ameri- three quarters of Orthodox Jews between the ties face internal and external challenges, and it’s European Jewry,” was in fact a landmark. can Jews. ages of 18 and 24 use it, compared to 12 percent doubtful that many of the tiny far-flung com- The three-day meeting aimed to assert, for “Patterns of language use can tell us things of Orthodox respondents 75 or older. Accord- munities ultimately will survive. the first time, “that Jews in Europe can take the about identities and communities that might ing to the report, “such words and phrases are But Eastern European Jewish life generally is future into their own hands, an attitude incon- not even be known to the actors themselves,” so important for Orthodox identity that many here to stay. That was not at all apparent before ceivable before 1989.” said Cohen, who has been conducting Jewish baalei teshuva (newly Orthodox Jews) make a the collapse of the Iron Curtain. It drew 200 Jewish community leaders, poli- identity surveys of the more direct variety for conscious effort to incorporate them into their In Warsaw in the early 1980s, when I first cymakers and scholars from 25 countries across some four decades. “There are things we can see speech, even when some people consider them met the Jewish author and journalist Konstanty Europe, East and West, as well as the United through the side door that we can’t see through to be incorrect English.” Observant Sephardic Gebert, the sense was that there was no future States and Israel. the front door.” and Mizrahi Jews, whose ancestors never spoke for Jews in Eastern Europe. Participants included Orthodox and secular Benor and Cohen’s survey technique, like Yiddish in the first place, have adopted Yiddish “I believe we are the last ones. Definitely,” Jews, rabbis and laypeople. Many, meeting for the the questions they asked, was untraditional. religious terminology as well. Gebert told an interviewer. first time, forged networks that persist to this day. Instead of using a random survey sample, they Benor attributes this to the fact that Ortho- Recently, however, Gerbert heralded Polish The meeting was the first international fo- employed a “snowball technique,” e-mailing the dox communities have in general become more Jewish life, present and future. rum to identify and outline many of the issues survey to 600 friends in July 2008 and asking conservative, politically and culturally, in recent “There is a bar mitzvah in my shul next that have since dominated the European Jewish respondents to forward it in turn. They make years. “Part of that shift to the right is a linguis- week. The yearly Festival of Jewish Culture in policy agenda: relations between Diaspora Jews clear in the introduction to their report that tic shift: some Jews who used to use less distinct Krakow is just around the corner. Midrasz, the and Israel; how to define Jewish identity and what this approach has both its advantages and its English are now incorporating more Yiddish- Jewish magazine, comes to my mailbox regu- constitutes a Jewish community; anti-Semitism drawbacks. On the one hand, 41,696 people isms into their English,” she said. larly late, as always,” he wrote in a recently pub- and interfaith activities; the relationship of Jews to completed the survey just in the first few weeks In non-Orthodox Jewish communities, two lished essay. “My younger son graduated from Europe; how to reach out to the unaffiliated. of its life on the Internet. (You can still take the trends are happening concurrently, the survey the city’s Jewish school. My older son was press Speaking to the meeting, Gebert described survey online, though only data from those first found: As members of an older generation die spokesman of the Warsaw kehilla for some time. the Jews of post-communist Europe as “ship- 41,696 respondents has already been analyzed.) and takes certain language patterns with them, My invitation for the Israeli Independence Day wrecked Jews” who were struggling to reclaim a By contrast, the National Jewish Population younger Jews are using more Yiddish and He- reception just came in.” Jewish identity that had been submerged under Survey, conducted every 10 years by Jewish Fed- brew than before (and certainly more than In Prague, where the affiliated Jewish com- communism, and in many cases did not know erations of North America, has a sample size of their more assimilationist parents’ generation munity numbers at least 1,600 and the various which way to turn. about 5,000. On the other hand, Benor and Co- did). But the words disappearing and those Jewish denominations have five active syna- The conference was an exciting moment— hen acknowledge, “We know it over-represents reappearing aren’t necessarily the same words. gogues, I remember the intensity of emotion the first formal occasion in which the concept Jews with strong Jewish engagement and social Though Jews (and non-Jews) of all ages still say at a 1992 ceremony when Karol Sidon, a writer of a post-communist, pan-European identity ties”—the kind of people most likely to take “shmutz” and “mazel tov,” seniors are more like- and one-time anti-communist dissident, was was broached. such a survey of their own volition. ly than their grandchildren to use Yiddishisms inaugurated formally as the city’s rabbi. As such it reflected the energy and optimism As Benor expected from her previous schol- like “heimish” (homey), “macher” (big shot), It was the eve of Rosh Hashanah, and a that exploded after the fall of communism and arship (like Cohen, she teaches at Hebrew “nu?” (so?), “naches” (pride), and “bashert” standing-room crowd filled the opulent sanc- led many observers to dub the 1990s “the Jew- Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, the (predestined). Where the younger generation is tuary of the ornate Jubilee Synagogue. ish decade.” Reform movement’s seminary, which spon- overtaking their grandparents is with religious “All my life I’ve been moving in a circle to- Czech President Vaclav Havel, whose first sored the survey), the data suggests that for the terminology—Yiddish words like “shul,” “dav- ward the inauguration,” Sidon had told me a foreign trip after becoming president in 1989 most part, American Jews across the religious en” and “bentch” (for the blessing after meals). few days earlier. “People do things unconscious- was to Israel, met with participants. spectrum draw from the same “repertoire” of “You see more Jews now identifying as ly; they don’t always consciously decide what to “I believe Jews will continue to live a life of distinctive speech elements—that is, they are a religious rather than as an ethnic group,” do. Their subconscious leads them to it.” their own,” he said, “and that new generations English speakers who use varying amounts of Benor said. “Those Yiddish words that are Sidon was born in 1942 to a Jewish father will emerge.” n Yiddish or Hebrew phrasing and grammar to who died in the Terezin concentration camp distinguish themselves both from non-Jews and continued on page 39

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 13 I Israel

Jewish support for Israeli-Arab causes goes mainstream, irking some By Gil Shefler NEW YORK (JTA)—When the Reform move- CEO of the Jewish federation of San Francisco The New Israel Fund, for example, has come American Jews who support funding Israeli- ment passed a resolution endorsing advocacy and one of the key Jewish activists raising money under fire for its support of Israeli-Arab advocacy Arab causes say they do so out of concern for Is- for Israeli Arabs, it wasn’t the first time an in the Diaspora for Israeli Arabs. “Whether your groups that take controversial positions, including rael’s democracy and Jewish values. American Jewish group had backed the cause mind-set is equality, whether it’s the security of Is- calls for eliminating Israel’s Jewish character. Just “Israel’s strength and survival depend on of Israeli-Arab equality. rael, whether it’s building bridges, all three reasons last week, three NIF-funded Arab Israeli groups the democratic nature of the Jewish state,” said In recent years, a growing number of Amer- are involved and these are compelling reasons.” were behind a poster for a conference on women’s the Reform movement’s resolution on the issue. ican Jews have thrown their support toward Arab citizens constitute approximately 20 per- rights in the Arab world that suggested Israeli sol- “These imperatives require that we be ever sensi- Israeli-Arab causes, including civil rights and cent of Israel’s population of 7 million. Though diers sexually violate Palestinian women, prompt- tive to the aspirations and just demands of Israel’s advocacy organizations, women’s empower- they have the same rights accorded Israel’s Jew- ing critics to cry foul. minority citizens.” ment courses, student-exchange programs and ish citizens, studies have shown that Israeli Arabs The NIF defended its position even as it criti- Jessica Balaban, the executive director of the even film festivals. routinely suffer from employment discrimina- cized the poster. “While we certainly defend the Inter-Agency Task Force, says her mission tran- More than 80 Jewish groups belong to the tion and receive fewer government funds than conference as appropriate—and as always, may scends political and ideological boundaries. Inter-Agency Task Force on Israeli-Arab Issues, Israel’s Jewish sector in such areas as education, disagree with our grantees on some key issues “With better education, people understand which works on behalf of equal treatment of Is- infrastructure and welfare. but see no reason to force them into ideological that improving the quality of life for the Arab citi- raeli Arabs and Jews. In 2006, an Israeli government committee set lockstep—there’s no question that the poster in zens of Israel is not only a moral imperative but The Jewish federations’ Venture Fund for up to investigate riots in October 2000, in which question is unnecessarily provocative and mis- also in our self-interest, and it’s been well received Jewish and Arab Equality and Shared Society, Israeli police fire left 12 Arab protesters dead, de- leading,” NIF communications director Naomi by the Arab community here,” she told JTA by a mix of 21 private family foundations, fed- termined that Israel long had neglected its Arab Paiss told JTA. phone from Israel. erations and philanthropists, has raised more citizens. The Or Commission finding helped pave Other Jewish organizational officials say the Rabbi Pesach Lerner, vice president of the Na- than $1 million for Israeli-Arab causes since its the way for mainstream Jewish groups to support Israeli-Arab community needs to be held to ac- tional Council of Young Israel, an umbrella organi- launch in 2007. And in 2006, the Jewish Agency a cause long championed by organizations such count. “We need to hold the leaders of the Israeli- zation for Orthodox synagogues, said he objects to for Israel announced it would invest in projects as the New Israel Fund and the Abraham Project. Arab community or any other community to be funding Israeli-Arab causes as a matter of priorities. benefiting Israeli Arabs, scrapping a policy, in Not everyone is happy about it. responsible,” said Malcolm Hoenlein, executive “Tradition teaches us priorities, and those priorities place since its founding in 1922, of exclusively Morton Klein, president of the Zionist Orga- vice chairman of the Conference of Presidents of dictate that we give to our own families first,” Lern- helping Jewish causes. nization of America, says American Jews should Major Jewish American Organizations, which is er said. “Jews in Israel have needs, and you don’t see Last week’s unanimous endorsement of the not be sending funds to an Israeli community a member of the Inter-Agency Task Force. “That the Arabs giving money to the Jews.” cause by American Jewry’s largest religious move- that is disloyal toward Israel. He cited visits by means that when there are incitements or actions Rabbi David Ellenson, president of the Hebrew ment, at the biennial conference in Toronto of the Israeli-Arab lawmakers to enemy states such as that are detrimental, they need to counter it.” Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, sub- Union for Reform Judaism, was the latest sign Syria by way of example. Warning that some of the money donated with scribes to an opposing theological view. Quoting that Jewish support for Israeli-Arab causes has “I think it’s a mistake to be raising money for the intent of bolstering Israeli society by reaching the biblical injunction to “welcome the stranger in gone mainstream. Israeli Arabs, at least until they show their support out to Israeli Arabs is used for “questionable pur- your midst,” Ellenson says it’s a religious impera- “There’s no doubt that more money has been for Israel and its rights,” Klein said. “There’s been poses,” Hoenlein said donations by Diaspora Jews tive—and eventually it will strengthen Israel. given to this issue then ever before. It’s become an inverse relationship between the monies being should be put to use effectively “to counter the “In general,” he said, “I think that people who a mainstream issue,” said Rabbi Brian Lurie, co- allocated to the Israeli-Arab communities and Islamist forces, encourage moderation and create are treated with respect and dignity tend to re- chair of the Inter-Agency Task Force, a former their loyalties and commitment to Israel.” conditions that are inductive to it.” spond to those who treat them this way.” n Plans for new Palestinian city in West Bank raise hopes By Dina Kraft RAWABI, West Bank (JTA)—Dusk has fallen on positive picture of economic growth in the West Economic growth is not a substitute for political ing final Israeli approval for the building of an a terraced hillside and workers clearing the red Bank, economists say. progress, they say. access road, part of which will cut near a road earth hurry to finish planting trees in the twilight, In Ramallah, the most prosperous Palestinian “Economic progress helps and is desperately used by Jewish settlers that falls in an area under their labor the initial step in the construction of city and its financial hub, high-end restaurants are needed to make peace dividends stick, but you Israeli jurisdiction. the first-ever planned Palestinian city. crowded, a new chain of cafes recently opened, cannot ensure economic stability without politi- Palestinian economist Samir Hazboun sees The city, with a construction price tag of some billboards advertise top-of-the-line washing ma- cal progress,” Masri says. “Political instability can the plans for Rawabi, which aims to attract edu- $350 million, already has its city limits registered, chines and cranes building high-rise buildings dot always blow up in our faces.” cated, middle-class Palestinians, as a good sign. a name—Rawabi, Arabic for hills—and funding the hilltops. One building under construction will In 1995, inspired by the prospects for peace “It show Palestinians interest in investing from the government of Qatar. It’s located about even feature a rotating rooftop restaurant. following the signing of the Oslo accords, Masri and improving their own standard of living five miles north of Ramallah. How the unstable Palestinian political situa- returned to the West Bank after years living in the and at the end of the day will be a new example The project’s Ramallah-based developers, tion will impact that growth is unclear. United States. When the second intifada began in that something is moving towards the future,” who plan to start building soon, hail the project For the time being, International Monetary 2000, the road outside his office was often crowd- Hazboun said. as a prized and much-needed example of Pales- Fund officials say economic growth in the West ed with Israeli tanks and army jeeps. His offices Rawabi was heralded at a conference last tinian economic development. Israeli officials Bank could reach as much as 7 percent in 2009 if are in the same neighborhood as the Mukata, the month in Jerusalem by British Jewish businessman are among those citing it as a symbol of Pales- Israel continues to relax restrictions, notably the re- Palestinian Authority headquarters where Yasser Sir Ronald Cohen, who heads a nonprofit that en- tinian progress. moval of roadblocks. Such growth would indicate a Arafat spent time under siege. courages political stability through Israeli and Pal- “At the heart of this, it’s about building a major improvement in living standards in the area Envisioning a different future, Adi Ashkenazi, estinian economic development. The group, the nation,” says Bashar Masri, chairman of the in the past three years, although the economy has who directs the economic research division of Portland Trust, is helping support Rawabi. board of the Bayti Real Estate Investment Com- yet to recover to pre-intifada levels from the sum- Israel’s Office of Regional Cooperation under Cohen says he sees the city as part of a larger pany, which is running the project. “We have mer of 2000. Unemployment in the West Bank is Minister Silvan Shalom, says Israel is supportive effort to foster a more moderate Palestinian dreamed about a liberal, advanced state with a 18 percent, down from 25 percent in 2004. of the plans for Rawabi.“Israel views with great electorate. “We have to support private sector be- higher standard of living, and this project is part Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu importance assisting economic projects in the cause it’s the only way to have sustainable growth,” of those aspirations.” likes to tout Palestinian economic prosperity in Palestinian Authority,” Ashkenazi said. “We be- Cohen said. “If people are feeling desperate, it’s Masri, 48, sits behind a sleek, lime-colored the West Bank paving the way for political peace. lieve economic peace will improve our relations very hard to arrive at reasonable negotiations.” glass desk at his office. He envisions the city as Since coming to office in March, Netanyahu has and help bring us to a place of dialogue and the In Rawabi’s promotional video, 3-D architec- a place of both good living and employment. removed a series of checkpoints, helping ease the real basis for future.” tural images depict people walking in a modern He talks animatedly about the work opportu- movement of people and goods between West Ashkenazi talked to JTA while en route to a city with gleaming high-rise buildings, green nities not only in construction but at a com- Bank towns and cities. ceremony to mark a new Israel-West Bank cross- parks and shopping areas. For now, the site of mercial center. By contrast, Hamas-controlled Gaza remains ing point that will make it easier for Israeli Arabs Rawabi remains one of wild sage tucked amid Eventually, Masri says, Rawabi will have largely blockaded by both Israel and Egypt, its to enter the northern West Bank city of Jenin and craggy white rocks, rows of new cypress and pine schools, a hotel, a shopping center, health clin- economy in shambles. spend money in the hopes that it will boost the trees, and a bumpy dirt road. ics—and up to 40,000 residents. Palestinians say that while some relief has local economy. Israeli Jews are not permitted to A young civil engineer who is part of its design The sunny plans for Rawabi, despite lingering come with the dismantling of checkpoints, the enter Palestinian cities. team looks out at the view and says he hopes one bureaucratic challenges with the Israeli and Pal- ones that remain—including makeshift ones Rawabi is to sit on Palestinian Authority- day soon he’ll be beyond planning the city; he’ll estinian authorities, dovetail with an increasingly that move daily—contribute to a fragile situation. controlled land, but developers are still await- be living in it. n

14 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Jean-Yves Thibaudet piano Sat, Dec 12 | 8 PM Dec/Jan Events HILL AUDITORIUM “Every note he fashions as a pearl…the joy, brilliance, and musicality of his performance could not be missed.” (The New York Times) A master of color, nuance, and interpretation, pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet is recognized for his sophisticated performances and Opera in Concert: Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle poetic soul. Considered one of the great pianists of our time, he 10 has been praised by the press as “a musical treasure of this age.” His Chicago Symphony Orchestra absolute artistry, virtuosity, and charisma will be on display in Hill Pierre Boulez artistic director | Auditorium just a few days before his Carnegie Hall recital. Mathieu Dufour fl u t e Michelle DeYoung mezzo-soprano PROGRAM Falk Struckmann bass-baritone Ravel Pavane pour une enfante defunte (1899) Wed, Jan 27 | 8 PM Ravel Miroirs (1904-05) HILL AUDITORIUM Brahms Sonata No. 3 in f minor, Op. 5 (1853)

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tic guitar, now displays Western musical infl uences such as rock, ums09 country, and Portugese fado, but also incorporates oriental musical infl uences and instruments such as the oud. She performs in many Ladysmith Black Mambazo languages, including Algerian-Arabic, French, English, and Berber Sun, Jan 31 | 4 PM dialects, even within the same song. Her three solo albums delve HILL AUDITORIUM into the personal rather than the political, expanding on themes of Since Paul Simon’s Graceland catapulted Ladysmith Black love and loss. Mambazo to worldwide fame in 1986, the vocal group has FUNDED IN PART BY THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN. remained true to the idea of opening doors to South African MEDIA PARTNERS METRO TIMES AND MICHIGAN CHRONICLE. culture through music. For more than 30 years, the group has married the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South African musical traditions to the sounds and sentiments Fondly Do We Hope…Fervently Do We Pray Season131st of gospel music. The result is a musical and spiritual alchemy Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane that has touched a worldwide audience representing every Dance Company corner of the religious, cultural, and ethnic landscape. Bill T. Jones artistic director SPONSORED BY Fri-Sat, Jan 22-23 | 8 PM POWER CENTER Choreographer Bill T. Jones commemorates the Abraham Lincoln FUNDED IN PART BY THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN. MEDIA PARTNERS WEMU 89.1 FM, ANN ARBOR’S 107ONE, METRO TIMES, bicentennial with a production exploring the life and legacy of MICHIGAN CHRONICLE, AND BETWEEN THE LINES. this nation’s complex fi gure. This dance-theater work features sophisticated movement set against a backdrop of fi lm and a modern set, all accompanied by original live music for cello, guitar, piano and voice. The phrase taken from Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address to title the work, Fondly Do We Hope…Fervently Do We Pray, captures the vision of the piece: an examination of what Lincoln and

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FUNDED IN PART BY THE NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS AS PART OF AMERICAN MASTERPIECES: THREE CENTURIES OF ARTISTIC GENIUS; ARTS MIDWEST’S PERFORMING ARTS FUND; AND THE METLIFE COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS FUND OF THE NATIONAL DANCE PROJECT, A PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE NEW ENGLAND FOUNDATION FOR THE ARTS. CALL OR CLICK FOR TICKETS! MEDIA PARTNERS BETWEEN THE LINES, METRO TIMES, MICHIGAN RADIO 91.7 FM, ANN ARBOR’S 107ONE AND MICHIGAN CHRONICLE. 734.764.2538 | WWW.UMS.ORG HOURS: Mon-Fri: 9 am to 5 pm Sat: 10 am to 1 pm

Ad #6 — Washtenaw Jewish News First Proof of Ad Due: Thu, Sep 3 Final Ad Due to WJN: Wed, Sep 9 Size: 9 13 /16 x 12.75 Color: B&W Ad Runs: October Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 15 I Teens/Youth

Body piercing—kosher or not? Noa Gutterman, staff writer ecently, I’ve wondered, is God’s nose does a human being have to tell another human pierced? I know practically nothing being what God wants or doesn’t want? And R about God, so why not? Who’s to say anyway, who would think that being created in that God doesn’t have a pierced nose? Four the image of God included a body at all. days ago, I got one too. Even though I had been Yet, the aspect of Jewish tradition that was anticipating it for a long time, getting my nose most striking was the idea that Jews with pierc- pierced was one of the most terrifying experi- ings and tattoos must be buried in a separate ences of my life. Accompanied by two friends part of a Jewish cemetery or, in some cases, can- and my mother, I found myself in Pangea Pierc- not even be buried inside the cemetery bound- ing. Four days later, the pain has subsided and aries. Much to my surprise, this statement is I could not be happier with my new nose. My entirely false. Nowhere, in any Jewish text does interest in nose piercings has been around for it say that pierced or tattooed Jews must have years. However my interest was renewed with different burial procedures. In fact, this different an experience I had last semester in Israel. I was treatment of pierced and tattooed Jews could be in line in a small shop to get my ears pierced, considered as a violation of the commandment and the two young women in line behind me to honor the dead. were preparing to get their noses pierced. These My findings were not only surprising but young women were also Orthodox Jews. also reinforced the fact that my piercing did not My nose piercing has elicited many ques- violate any Jewish law or tradition. Please don’t tions about the Jewish ethics behind piercings. misinterpret my foggy conclusions about God’s And what I found was not at all what I expect- likes and dislikes when it comes to piercings. No ed. My first biblical find was a section which one on this earth knows whether or not God stated that if a slave chooses to stay a slave, he approves of piercings. And for that reason, no should get his ear pierced to signify his love one should make judgments about what is ac- of his master and to brand him as a perma- ceptable in Judaism and what is not. Piercings nent slave. I may be mistaken, but I hope that are a form of self-expression. Piercings are not a people who meet me assume that I am not a method of rebellion against God or against the slave. In fact, even most Orthodox Jews accept religion of Judaism. My piercings should not af- ear piercings on women as a social norm, yet fect my faith. I still believe in God and in Juda- they still discourage nose piercings. The second ism just as much as I did four days ago. Jewish teaching I found was in regards to hu- Piercings are a serious decision. I waited a mans being created in the image of God. Some long time before I (and my parents) were ready Jews argue that God gave us bodies in the image for me to get a nose piercing. But piercings are of God and we should not deface ourselves with also an aspect of style, just like clothing, or shoes, piercings. This immediately seemed strange to or hair products. I may never know if God has a me. Who’s to say that God doesn’t have a pierced piercing. However, I know that my nose pierc- nose like mine? Why should any kind of piercing ing will now serve as a constant reminder of my SAVE THE be labeled as defacing God’s image? What right abiding faith in Judaism and in God. n DATE! Celebrate Chanukah with Ken Pardes DELIGHTFUL, DELICIOUS, Emily Eisbruch, special to the WJN DE-LAXES Starring: JUDIE & JERRY LAX

Sunday, January 24 • 3 pm Washtenaw Community College – Morris Lawrence Building

Ken Pardes Youth Group at the group’s Sukkot event in October. Ken Pardes, the local branch of Habonim Dror vited!” Contact Yael Warshai, at 223-8388, for youth movement, is off to a great start for the full details on when and where to meet for the 2009-2010 school year. Ken Pardes, also associ- Chanukah party. ated with Camp Tavor, held a wonderful kickoff Leadership development is a big focus of picnic at Bandemer Park in September. In Oc- Ken Pardes. According to Yael, “At the end of tober, they had a sukkah decorating party, com- December, there will be a Habonim leadership plete with cider, doughnuts and games about seminar in Philadelphia to be attended by the Jewish Family Services honors Judie and Jerry Lax Jewish history. Several other well attended leadership of Ken Pardes (11th graders and up). with the Claire and Isadore Bernstein Leadership Award events, including a November Shabbat dinner, Many kids are already starting to look forward rounded off the fall’s activities. to summer 2010 at Camp Tavor as well.” According to Yael Warshai, one of the coor- For information about Ken Pardes youth dinators of the youth group this year, “Com- group activities, contact Yael Warshai at ing up on Sunday, December 6th, we welcome [email protected] or Ron Sussman at everyone to a fun Chanukah party. We are a [email protected]. For Camp Tavor in- (734) 769-0209 • www.jfsannarbor.org friendly, fun group and we love meeting new formation, contact Kate Sandler at registrar@ kids! All kids, from age seven and up are in- camptavor.org. n

16 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 JCC youth department offers full range of programs Deborah Huerta, special to the WJN Winter Break programs the afterschool enrichment classes at the JCC, trees and taking caring of the environment. Par- its Partnership 2000 (P2K) sister community, The Jewish Community Center of Greater another session of the popular Swim with Kim ticipants will make crafts with recycled materials, Moshav Nahalal, joined forces to send eight Ann Arbor will offer Winter Break Fun Day class will be offered on Tuesday evenings from play fun games, and maybe even plant seeds or teens to compete in the JCC Maccabi Games programs from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. on December 5:30-6:30 p.m. at High Point School. decorate a cake to celebrate the birthday of the in San Antonio, Texas, from August 9–14. The 21–24 and December 28–31. Each Winter Break Registrations and payment for the classes trees. A pizza dinner will also be served and the athletes brought home an impressive total of 18 Fun Day will feature a fun field trip or special will be due by January 7. Class fees vary. evening will end with a viewing of the delight- medals, along with many wonderful memories activity, plus crafts, games, and gym time or ful movie Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest. This and new friendships. outdoor recess. Students may sign up for one or MLK Day School’s Out Program animated film follows the story of the magical Emma Share, who participated as a dancer more days. Programming details for each day The JCC will offer two programs on MLK inhabitants of a rainforest who fight to save their in both the 2008 and 2009 JCC Ann Arbor will be available in early December. Day (January 18)—a free community perfor- home from the threat of logging and pollution. Maccabi Teams, had this to say about her ex- The Winter Break Fun Day programs are mance in the afternoon and an all day School’s Kids’ Night Out events are open to JCC mem- perience last summer: “The 2009 San Antonio for JCC members ONLY in grades K-5; middle Out program. bers and non-members in grades K-5. The cost for Maccabi experience was amazing. There is just school students are also welcome to participate All youth in the community and their families JCC members is $20 (additional siblings: $18). The something cool about being part of a week-long as helpers for a reduced fee. The cost for each are invited to celebrate MLK Day by attending cost for non-members is $25 (additional siblings: event where you’re competing with, hanging day is $36 for care from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. ($32 for the free afternoon performance, which will fea- $23). Registrations and payment will be due by out, and befriending Jews your age. Maccabi is additional siblings) and $10 for Extended Care ture the group Singers Of United Lands. S.O.U.L. Thursday, January 28. Registration forms will be a place where you can be proud of your Jewish- from 4–6 p.m. Registration and payment are is a unique quartet of four professional young available at the JCC and at www.jccannarbor.org. ness and the city you are from. It’s amazing to due by Monday, December 14. adult singers, each from a different country. The be able to represent Ann Arbor in a city as big as four singers are remarkable for their high-quality Snow Days San Antonio filled with athletes from across the Youth Enrichment Classes vocal musicianship, geographical diversity, and The Youth Department of the Jewish Com- nation. And the three Israeli athletes who joined The JCC is planning an exciting sched- enthusiasm for sharing about their respective cul- munity Center of Greater Ann Arbor will once the Ann Arbor delegation this year made the ex- ule of after school-classes for the January- tures. The performance times and details will be again offer Snow Day programs this winter. On perience truly special…. I would recommend February session. Youth Enrichment classes available in mid December. RSVPs for the perfor- days when the JCC is able to open but Ann Ar- Maccabi to any Jewish teen who likes to have for elementary students will run for 6 weeks, mance are requested by January 14. bor Public Schools are cancelled due to winter new adventures, have a lot of fun, and make In addition to the community performance, weather conditions, a Snow Day program will long-lasting memories.” the JCC will offer a full day School’s Out/JCC’s In be offered from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. for students in Next summer, Ann Arbor’s athletes will program from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. for JCC members grades K-5; middle school students may partici- once again be joined by Israeli athletes from ONLY in grades K-5; middle school students pate as helpers for a reduced fee. Nahalal and the combined team will attend may also participate as helpers for a reduced fee. Students will enjoy games, gym activities the JCC Maccabi Games in Omaha, Nebraska, Participants in the School’s Out day will enjoy and fun in the snow under the supervision from August 1–6, 2010. At the Omaha Games, the afternoon S.O.U.L. performance as well as of Youth Director Deborah Huerta and other teens will be able to compete in basketball, soc- special workshops with the S.O.U.L. singers and available staff. Students should bring a nut free, cer, volleyball, bowling, dance, golf, swimming, other fun activities. The cost for the School’s Out dairy lunch and appropriate clothes for playing table tennis, or tennis. Athletes of all abilities day is $36 for care from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. ($32 for outside (weather permitting). are welcome to participate and scholarship as- additional siblings) and $10 for Extended Care The Snow Days program is for JCC mem- sistance is available to help defray the costs of from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Registration and payment bers only and the program fee is $50 (additional attending the Games. Teens must be 13–16 as Programming robots at a JCC enrichment class are due by Thursday, January 14. siblings and Kids’ Konnection / Kids’ Club par- of July 31 to participate. For additional information about the ticipants receive discounts). Registration in ad- For more information about participating beginning Monday, January 11, and continu- School’s Out day or to RSVP for the commu- vance is not required, but parents will be asked as an athlete, coach, or volunteer, contact JCC ing through the week of February 15. These nity performance, contact Deborah Huerta at to fill out a registration form and submit pay- youth director Deborah Huerta at deborah- fun and stimulating afternoon classes run from [email protected] or 971-0990. ment when they arrive. [email protected] or 971-0990. A limited num- 4:20-5:20 pm and are open to both JCC mem- ber of spots on the team are available each year, bers and non-members. Snack and supervision Kid’s Night Out on Tu B’Shevat Athletes sought for Maccabi Games 2010 so interested families are encouraged to contact in the JCC’s after school programs before each Every other month, the JCC offers a Kids’ Each summer the Jewish Community Cen- the JCC as soon as possible. class are included for all class participants. Night Out event featuring games, crafts, dinner, ter of Greater Ann Arbor sends a team of ath- For additional information or to register for JCC The enrichment schedule will be finalized in and a movie or other special activities. The next letes ages 13-16 to the JCC Maccabi Games, an youth programs, visit www.jccannarbor.org or December, but will likely include several return- Kids’ Night Out will be held on Saturday, Janu- Olympic-style sporting competition that incor- contact Deborah Huerta at deborahhuerta@jc- ing favorites such as Fit Kids, Gym Sports, and ary 30, from 6:30–10 p.m. at the JCC. porates community service and social activities cfed.org or 971-0990. Lego Robotics, as well as some new offerings Since Tu B’Shevat falls on January 30 this to combine for an unforgettable experience for such as Chess, Drama, and Art. In addition to year, the theme for the event will be celebrating Jewish teens. This past summer, Ann Arbor and Home sick? HDS students stay connected through distance learning Dina Shtull, special to the WJN he United States and Michigan De- link to a YouTube video of a math lesson were Behind Rebel Lines, as part of their study of partments of Education and the all posted on web-based Wikispace. (If school- the Civil War. Zacks and Bamberger followed T Center for Disease Control have all books were not at home, work was modified along and participated in the class reading. recommended that schools ensure continu- and special directions were given.) Video con- A school day includes lighter moments such ous learning for children who are home sick. ferencing with Skype allowed the students to as recess or a snack break. Students at home did They suggest creating virtual classrooms and fully participate in the class math lesson on not miss those moments either. When it was electronic learning communities where stu- dividing decimals. The students could both time for a break, teacher Carol Gannon put the dents and teachers interact even though stu- be heard, and Adi, who had a webcam (digital words to the class song on the SMART Board, dents may not be physically present in the camera connected to her computer) could be and all the students sang together. If laughter, classroom. Hebrew Day School has been do- seen on the SMART Board screen in the class- learning, and friendship can help speed up re- ing just that—keeping students with the flu room. When teacher Carol Gannon was com- covery, it did. Zacks and Bamberger came back connected with their classmates and their puting problems on the SMART Board, the to school as if they had never been “home” sick. learning while they are at home recovering. webcam was turned to the Board so that the “I loved being with Skype and learning in the “I felt very honored to be able to talk and do students could see what was written. classroom. It was fun, and I could see my class- work with my class while I was sick,” says Daniel The students were also an integral part of HDS student participates in classroom mates,” said Bamberger. n Zacks, a fifth grader who was out for four days the class science experiment with mealworms. lesson from home For more information about Hebrew Day earlier this semester. Zacks and Adi Bamberger, During the observation and documentation The student in the classroom and the student School, call 971-4633. Tours and Open Houses who was also out sick, stayed connected a num- of the mealworm behavior, the video camera at home together discussed and documented are scheduled for January 12 at 9 a.m. and Jan- ber of different ways. Descriptions of what was was positioned next to the class science partner their observations. Literature class was next. uary 21 at 7 p.m. done in class, homework assignments and a so that the mealworm activity could be seen. The class was reading an historical novel,

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 17  I Youth   Early Childhood Center goes green Peretz Hirshbein, special to the WJN fter lunch in the Kangaroo room of An environmental consciousness exists not the JCC Early Childhood Center, a only in the mealtime routines that reduce waste A preschool-aged child picks up her and preserve resources. It also manifests itself in plate, cup, and utensils, walks over to a bucket many of the learning materials that are manipu- labeled with one of Ann Arbor’s ubiquitous lated by the children in the various interest areas “Compostable” stickers, scrapes off her plate, of their classrooms: During large group time in and then proceeds to rinse her plate, cup, and the Zebra room, a group of two-year-olds bang utensils in a wash bin of soapy water. Then she materials together in time to the beat of a song. takes the yogurt container she brought from While some of the children use egg shakers and home and places it in a recycling bin. Later, drums devised for this purpose, another child uses the grate from an air conditioning vent and a stick, while another child uses a washboard, an old-time favorite. During Work Time in the Gi-  raffe room, a group of preschool-aged children  playing “family” sets the table in their “house” area  with real plates and real utensils, and pretends to   cook food in a real skillet with a real spatula, all  procured at the Ann Arbor PTO thrift shop. Dur-  ing group time in the Duck room, a small group of older infants engages in sensory-motor explo- ration of interlocking metal rings and tin cans, all  found at Recycle Ann Arbor’s Re-Use center.  The increased use of these “found,” real ma- terials began a number of years ago, when some  of the ECC’s teachers began to re-use com-  mon household items to equip  the parts of their classrooms  devoted to chil-  dren’s pretend  Louis Perry and Shaul Tovi play. Two years   use found materials to ago, however, sift and sort. the ECC ad- the bucket will be emptied into opted a curricu- a large compost bin, and the lum approach cup, utensils, and plate will be that demanded The Jewish Cultural Society sanitized and used again, and a re-evaluation A Community for Cultural Jews again, and again. In the spring, of all classroom the compost will be used as materials. The planting resumes in the ECC’s High/Scope ap- vegetable garden. A similar Aurelia Schaedig recycles proach utilized You are invited scene is played out in each ECC her yogurt container by the ECC classroom after every mealtime. places great emphasis on materials that reflect to our annual This environmentally friendly mealtime the real lives of children, that appeal to more routine, with all that surrounds it, originated than one sense, and that can be used in any Hannukah with the ECC’s director, Noreen DeYoung, who way a child can imagine. Now, every class- Party said, “I really had a vision of teaching children room regularly uses “found” materials not only to be better ecological citizens of the world. I for children’s dramatic play, but also as music Sunday, Dec 13th, 10-noon wanted to see us engaging in Tikkun Olam ev- materials, sensory materials, and art materials, at the JCC. ery day.” Slowly but surely, over the last eighteen which provide a greater opportunity for explo- months, the JCC’s early childhood program ration and imagination. Fun activities for kids of all ages has integrated green practices into the daily life While green routines around mealtimes of the program, and its students. Some green have reduced the ECC’s daily waste dramati- Moon Bounce practices started small, but grew over time. cally, and the use of “found” materials in all ar- The worm box in the hallway that transforms eas of the classrooms have enriched children’s Menorah construction relatively small amounts of organic waste into learning, these practices have also led to the Candle making rich soil led to full-fledged composting that ac- growth of children for whom the first reaction Arts and Crafts commodates a large amount of the ECC’s daily is not going to be to throw things in the trash. waste. The use of durable drinking cups for the While many children understand the need to children many years ago led to the introduction recycle and re-use, the development of green Lots & Lots of durable plates in the classrooms last school habits is critical to making a real connection of Latkes! year, and then real, metal, child-sized utensils between the ideal of Tikkun Olam and actions this school year. that repair the world every day. n Candlelighting Ceremony

Come sing and dance, bring a friend! We look forward to celebrating with you!

The Jewish Cultural Society 2935 Birch Hollow Drive, Ann Arbor MI www.jewishculturalsociety.org 734.975.9872

18 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 JCC Camp Raanana earns rave reviews for Summer 2009 programs Deborah Huerta, special to the WJN t is not even winter yet, but many local on one of the overnights this summer and children are already counting the days talked about it for days. What a great experi- I until summer begins so they can return ence!” Laura Hirshbein, another third grade to Camp Raanana. Located on a beautiful pri- parent, was similarly enthused: “My son loved vate beach front at Independence Lake, Camp the specialty offerings at camp this year. He Raanana is the Jewish Community Center of came home chatting and excited about science, Greater Ann Arbor’s outdoor summer day sports, and photography.” camp for children entering grades K-8. The Parents cited many other reasons for their camp offers nine 1-week sessions each sum- satisfaction with Camp Raanana, including mer and provides swim lessons, arts & crafts, the effectiveness of the swim lessons, the excit- Judaics, nature exploration, music, sports, ing all-camp field trips, and the helpful weekly free swim, weekly special events or field trips, emails and pictures. But sometimes it just comes and Shabbat celebrations. down to the fact that their kids love the Camp Campers are not the only ones looking for- Raanana experience. Sakina Zerrel reported, ward to Camp Raanana’s 2010 debut. Camp “Of all the camps my daughter attended this Raanana’s counselors are also excited for the summer—and that includes sports camp, boat- next camp season, and several of them will ing on a tall ship at the Ocean Institute of Dana be coming back for their fifth or sixth year on Point on the Pacific Ocean, and even learning the camp staff. The high return rate for both about and taking care of sea lions and seals at campers and staff helps build a wonderful Laguna Beach’s mammal hospital—Camp Ra- sense of community at Camp Raanana and naana was still her favorite camp!” makes the camp truly special. Along with the positive feedback on the Campers enjoy the outdoor camp experience Why do families return to Camp Raa- 2009 Parent Survey, parents also included nana year after year? Comments from Camp Other parents also point to the impor- Another important factor behind Camp some suggestions for improvement, and the Raanana’s 2009 Parent Survey provide some tance of Camp Raanana’s staff and the pres- Raanana’s high return rate is the camp’s abil- Camp Raanana staff is working hard to make clues. For returning camp parents Dan and ence of mature male and female role models. ity to appeal to campers of all ages with its next summer even better for its returning and Hilary Green, the outdoor and Jewish expe- Jodi Reel, whose daughter attended Camp nurturing programs for grades K-2, weekly new campers. Changes planned include a re- riences, excellent value, and strong sense of Raanana for the first time last summer, had specialties for grades 3–5, and Pioneer Adven- vamped camp website, improved car-line pro- community make the difference: “The kids this to say about camp: “Our daughter really ture Program for grades 6–8. Laurie Adams cedures, and new field trip destinations and have a great experience, learn things about the blossomed this summer and it all happened felt that camp provided an excellent transi- mitzvah projects for Pioneer campers. outdoors, Judaism and themselves, and come so quickly... the independence, the maturity, tion between the JCC’s Early Childhood Cen- The camp dates for summer 2010 are June home dirty, tired, and happy – just the way the connection, all thanks to the camp direc- ter and kindergarten: “I think Camp Raanana 21–August 20. Early Bird Registration for the summer should be! We really appreciate tor and staff. Through the positive leadership is a great way to get the youngest group ready Camp Raanana will begin when brochures having swimming lessons incorporated into of the delightful young women who were her for kindergarten by putting them in a ‘new’ are available in late January. For more in- camp, rather than as an extra with an addi- counselors, she has decided at the age of al- situation, while keeping them comfortable formation about Camp Raanana, visit www. tional cost. The other wonderful thing about most seven that she wants to be a counselor because they still know many of the kids in CampRaanana.com or contact camp director the camp is how many of the counselors and one day! Camp Raanana truly exceeded our their group.” Pamela Ramseyer, parent of a Deborah Huerta at deborahhuerta@jccfed. staff are from our own Jewish community and expectations and was one of the best five week third grader, was pleased with the activities org or 971-0990. n have been to the camp themselves.” investments we’ve ever made.” offered to third–fifth graders, “My son went Camp Raanana hiring staff for 2010 Deborah Huerta, special to the WJN Assistant camp director sought Now hiring new counselors, specialists 12th grade are eligi- Camp Raanana, the Jewish Community Center Camp Raanana has several staff openings for ble to work as Junior of Greater Ann Arbor’s outdoor summer day next summer. Counselor-in-Training posi- Counselors at camp. camp, is seeking an experienced and dedicated tions are available for teens who have com- This is a paid posi- individual to serve as assistant camp director pleted 8th or 9th grade, Junior Counselor tion which requires for the 2010 camp season. The assistant direc- positions are available for teens who have a four or eight week tor position is a salaried position that is vital completed 10th, 11th, or 12th grade, and Head commitment. Camp Camp Raanana’s success and smooth opera- Counselor and Specialist positions are avail- Raanana’s Junior tion. The assistant director works closely with able for college and post-college students. Counselors work di- the camp director in the development, imple- The Counselor-in-Training program is a rectly with a group mentation, and supervision of all key aspects of fun and supportive program for teens who Head Counselor who the camp program. In addition to the salaried have completed 8th or 9th grade and are mak- acts as a mentor and period from June-August, the assistant direc- ing the transition from camper to counselor. involves the Junior tor will be paid on an hourly basis for assisting CITs receive training and hands-on experi- Counselor in plan- with pre-camp preparations in the spring. ence in child development, leadership and ning and implement- Applicants for the assistant director position team-building, conflict resolution, program ing all camp activities. must be at least 21 years of age by the start of planning, and first aid. CITs also get to partici- Junior Counselors Members of Camp Raanana’s praise-winning staff camp, have previous supervisory experience, pate in social activities and special field trips. must have previous and have extensive familiarity and experience Teens may register for one or both four-week experience in a camp setting and be able to programs specialist; sports specialist; nature with Judaic and camp programming. Appli- CIT sessions ($360 for the initial four-week attend several pre-camp training sessions in specialist; special needs coordinator; aftercare cants must also have a minimum of eight weeks session, $60 for a second four-week session) June. Interested teens should contact the camp coordinator; general counselor; and middle of full-time experience working with elemen- and will receive an honorarium for their work director in December or January to request an school travel group counselor. Applications will tary or middle school aged children, including upon successful completion of the program. application. be accepting beginning in December; interested at least four weeks of full-time administrative Teens must fill out an application and meet Camp Raanana is also seeking mature and individuals should contact the camp director as experience in a camp or similar program (unit with the camp director to receive approval to talented individuals to fill several eight-week soon as possible to request an application and head, program coordinator, head counselor, enter the program. Accepted applicants will Head Counselor and Specialist positions. Ap- obtain details about the available positions. etc.). Applicants should have or be working be required to attend several pre-camp train- plicants for these positions must have complet- For more information about working at Camp toward a bachelor’s degree in a related field ing sessions in June. A limited number of CIT ed at least one year of college (or equivalent), Raanana or to request an application, contact (education, Judaic studies, social work, camp positions are available; interested families are have previous experience in a camp setting, Camp Director Deborah Huerta at deborah- administration, etc.) and have special certifica- encouraged to contact the camp director in and be able to attend several pre-camp train- [email protected] or 971-0990. tions (lifeguard, health officer, CDL license, etc.) January or February. ing sessions in June. Positions available may in- or willingness to attain certification preferred. Teens who have completed 10th, 11th, or clude lifeguard; arts and crafts specialist; Judaic

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 19 I Youth

Building life skills and Jewish identity for the youngest Susan Horowitz, special to the WJN hen infants and toddlers ar- rive for school each morning at W the Jewish Community Center Early Childhood Center, their day promis- es to hold much more than simple daycare routines. Through interactions with teach- ers and other students, activities centered on the children’s interests and skills, and an age-appropriate Jewish curriculum, even the youngest of children gains important social, emotional, communication, and self-help

Toddlers look at books They need together. caregivers provides the foundation for developing early social skills. Watch- your help. ing and interacting with others triggers a whole different set of questions: What is that child doing Now. As one infant explores a textured material, another with her blocks? Can I watches intently mimic that action? How can I communicate to my skills throughout their time in the program. friends or teachers that I need help solving Supporting the exploration and discov- this problem? ery central to a young child’s life is one of the In addition to these life skills, at the Jew- primary responsibilities of a successful in- ish Community Center children also get a The Washtenaw Schools Millage did not pass. fant/toddler program. In the infant/toddler sense of what it means to be Jewish from the program at the JCC, the support is offered in very beginning. Celebrating Shabbat is an As a result, the Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation is asking numerous different ways. Much of the day is for your immediate donation. We have a 17-year history raising private important part of the week for infants and devoted to free choice time, where children toddlers. The Jewish holidays are the basis for donations for the Ann Arbor Public Schools – and today we’re pleading for have the opportunity to explore the array of many special activities throughout the year, your help on behalf of our community. Our kids. And our collective future. classroom materials. The interests expressed including making and tasting traditional We’re asking you to donate the amount you were willing to pay through a by the children during free play also form foods, learning new songs, and community- Millage “Yes” vote as seen below. It won’t solve the budget shortfalls. But it the basis for teacher-initiated small and wide programs and celebrations. Words like will take us one step closer to keeping our schools innovative and excellent. large group activities. Many of these materi- “torah,” “challah,” and “shalom” are a part of And 100% of your money will stay in Ann Arbor. als and activities pose challenges and ques- the children’s vocabulary from the time they tions for the children: How does this string begin to speak. The Jewish Community Cen- of beads move through this tube? What will ter offers a sense of Jewish identity for even this sponge feel like in my hands, on my face, the youngest of children. Home value (or more) Taxable value Suggested donation or against my tummy? What will happen if I Infant/toddler care is about so much more bang these spoons together? Through their $150,000 $75,000 $150 than just care. It is about interacting with oth- play, the children not only discover the an- ers, solving problems, and developing a sense $200,000 $100,000 $200 swers to these questions, but also gain im- of self. A successful infant/toddler program $250,000 $125,000 $250 portant problem solving skills and a sense of provides young children with the foundation $300,000 $150,000 $300 independence. Additionally, exploring with for developing a sense of personal identity these materials in the presence of peers and and skills that will last a lifetime. n $500,000 $250,000 $500 $750,000 $375,000 $750 $900,000+ $450,000 $900+

Note: Taxable value is estimated at 50% of home value.

To be part of the solution, visit www.supportannarborschools.org/urgentneed or call Christy Perros at 734.355.8597

At Sukkot time, the toddlers encounter a pumpkin

20 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Learning what is Jewish about a moose (and much more!) Cindy Saper, special to the WJN he Jewish Educators Council of Ann Arbor recently hosted Jewish Natu- T ralist Gabe Goldman as Scholar-in- Residence. Dr. Goldman is the Director of Experiential and Environmental Education at American Jewish University. He is well known for his unique teaching style that blends his love of Jewish text with his knowl- edge of nature and the environment. During his visit to Ann Arbor, he led a workshop for area teachers, and visited the Early Child- hood Center of the JCC, Hebrew Day School, Temple Beth Emeth Religious School, Beth Israel Religious School, Ann Arbor Recon- structionist Havurah Beit Sefer, and Jewish Cultural Society School. Rounding out his visit were two Shabbat family Nature Walks. Teachers and students alike had many “wow” moments as they engaged in hands on learn- ing during the workshops. Following are just a few comments: Gabe showing students how ancient “I found a lamed in the bush!” JCS student. heroes made fire “I loved Gabe’s open, welcoming and en- “Gabe’s presentation was perfectly pitched couraging teaching style.” BIRS teacher. to my students. The next week students were still talking about how exciting it was to hold the moose antler.” Havurah teacher. “The middle school students were mes- merized! Gabe raised their curiosity and they were very tuned in to his message that God’s creation is to be explored and admired.” BIRS teacher. “My students who are studying Jewish heroes learned about survival skills needed back in biblical times. Learning how to make a fire with flint and stone, and how to make tea from sumac, gave them a whole new per- spective to their classroom learning.” TBE teacher. As all these comments show, Gabe was able to connect in a very unique way with the entire community. Teachers were so im- pressed with his ability to engage everyone in the study of nature from a Jewish perspec- tive. From the relatively simple idea of hav- ing students look up to find the shapes of the Hebrew letters in the trees to the more com- Gabe Goldman with ECC students plicated halachic discussions of why various animals are considered kosher, teachers were “Who knew that the moose is the world’s inspired to continue exploring our Jewish largest kosher animal?” TBE teacher. connection to nature with their students. The “Wow, ink from wasps?!” JCS parent. Jewish Educators Council’s annual Scholar “What fascinated me the most was seeing, in Residence program is made possible by a for the first time, a gall nut and learning how generous grant from the Jewish Federation it is used to make the ink used for the writing of Greater Ann Arbor. n of the Torah.” BIRS teacher.

Jewish educators test the strength of rawhide Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 21 316 S. Main w Ann Arbor w www.TheArk.org JCC Book Festival Call for tickets: 734-763-8587 I

Jan. 12 8 PM RED SEA PEDESTRIANS

Jan. 23 YIDDISHE CUP 8 PM

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22 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Wishes You a 8 Healthy, Happy Chanukah

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1. The Local Authors Brunch celebrated the community's creativity 2. Author Judith Endelman 3. Ira Berkow signing Karen Silverman's book at Baseball Night 4. Book sales were brisk throughout the week 5. Author Karen McGinity 6. The nine Lunch and Learn programs were enjoyed by many 7. Debra B. Darvick read her book I Love Jewish Faces with the aid of Fran Martin 8. Author Dan Senor signing at JCC Book Festival 9. Brunch at the Local Authors Fair was a big success 10. The book sale continues at the JCC through Chanukah 11. Sammy Margolis, Cammy Brown, Elaine Margolis, Julie Brown, and Helen Brown at the American Girl Doll Tea Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 23 I On Another Note

A2SO CD release party, December 17 Sandor Slomovits, special to the WJN he Ann Arbor Symphony’s first ever prominent local attorney, is also a Whit- started talking about the possibility of re- recording has been available via elec- man scholar and an accomplished poet cording. That used to be a very touchy is- T tronic download from the Naxos label whose work has been published under sue because of union regulations. But the since September at www.naxos.com, but be- a pseudonym in The New Yorker. He is policies have changed and it’s much easier ginning on the 15th of this month, the physi- married to A2SO Executive Director Mary now to record. Especially if it’s a live con- cal CD will be available at Borders Books, Steffek Blaske.] We started talking about cert, rather than a whole recording session, Barnes and Noble, and at other music outlets the Copland work and the fact that there where you do each section again and again, and from the Naxos Record Company. are not many pieces with narration. Then, till you get it right. So, we were able to raise I recently sat down with A2SO Music somehow we began talking about Tom’s the funds and at that point we thought Director, Arie Lipsky, after one of his Afternoon favorite poet, Walt Whitman, and I said, maybe it would be a good idea to have a Delights chamber music concerts at the Jewish “Bingo!” And then the bashert happened. CD that presented Paul’s music. I asked Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor and [Laughter] I said, “Tom, you know, there is him about his “Second Violin Concerto” asked him about the new recording. a piece by Paul Fetler that uses Whitman and he told me that that has not been re- WJN: How did you decide that the A2SO’s first poems, and I’ll try to see if I can resurrect corded either, and also this little chamber recording would be all Paul Fetler’s music? it.” I was able to get, from the Buffalo Phil- orchestra piece, the “Capriccio.” And, even harmonic archives, a recording of the per- though he was at the time in his late 80s, he Arie Lipsky Lipsky: Some things are bashert. (Yiddish formance of this music. I listened again, said about the Capriccio, “I’m not comfort- word, meaning “destined, inevitable, or this is many years after, and it was still very able with that. Let me do a little revision.” different concert over two seasons.It was meant-to-be.”) Something happens and appealing to me. I played it for Tom and he very exciting, because people in the audi- you have no idea why and twenty years said, “Oh, wow. This is a real treasure.” WJN: Like Brahms. [Laughter] (In the Af- ence were told that they were going to be later you go… oh wow, now I understand. So we contacted Paul, who at that time ternoon Delights concert, Lipsky, along featured, with their clapping…. I joined the Buffalo Philharmonic as was already retired and living in Sarasota. with A2SO concertmaster Aaron Berofsky their principal cellist in 1984. The music He had been the composer in residence of and pianist Joel Schoenhals, played the WJN: And hopefully not their coughing. director then, Semyon Bychkov, liked the the Minnesota Orchestra for ten years, and “Brahms Piano Trio No. 1,” and Lipsky [Laughter] music of Paul Fetler. I’d not heard his mu- he was also professor of composition at the told the audience that Brahms originally sic before, or of him. This was sometime in University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. composed the piece as a very young man, Lipsky: Right. So we recorded these three pieces. the late 1980s, and Paul at that time was in I contacted him and told him we would but late in his life he rewrote it because he At each concert, as part of this new agreement his late 60s. The Buffalo Philharmonic used like to perform it and he was so excited. was not satisfied with it.) with the musicians, we were able to stay an- to play lots of new music, and, as a player, Brought back a lot of memories for him; other half an hour after the concert and just you always treat anything new with a little he remembered the Buffalo performances Lipsky: Yes. And so Paul also rewrote his “Ca- work on specific spots that might need a suspicion. You know, because it’s hard to very well. He said he would like to attend priccio.” And I think he achieved the same little correction. And we recorded the dress re- compare to Brahms and Beethoven and our performance. And so three years ago he results. It got much better. And then, since hearsal as well. Then after we had all the ma- Mozart and Bach and all these great ge- did. The audience received the piece very we could not do one whole program of terial, we had a producer, Thomas Gerdom, niuses of history. And when you read also warmly, Tom did a wonderful job, and the Fetler, because not many people know of and we worked together and came back with about new music during the time of Mo- orchestra played fantastically. So, then we him, we decided to record each piece in a something that we’re very, very proud of. zart and Beethoven, you realize that there continued on page 30 was so much more than these names, but somehow history has a way of….

WJN: Distilling? Former Ann Arborite Lea Grossman, Yiddishe Cup’s biggest fan Reflections from the band leader Lipsky: Yes. The good stays, the rest just goes. By Bert Stratton And I see my role… I’m supposed to give everything a chance, and do my best to he got us into The Ark. She kugeled the North Campus—the last time I had been chic—like something from the Progressive present new music to audiences, and then former program director, Dave Siglin. there—had been a music school, a smatter- Era—a bunch of Jews in puffy coats. history will decide. That’s the way it is in S She delivered a noodle kugel to his of- ing of grad student housing, and one under- On that first Ark trip, my youngest son theory anyway, [laughter] but in practi- fice on Pauline Road. He liked it and he hired graduate dorm. It had been the end of the stayed in the North Campus dorm, Bursley. cality, after you play some new pieces a us. (Hopefully our music had something to earth. The dorm was Bursley – as in “brrr, He was in eleventh grade. He liked it and couple of times, you figure out very fast do with getting us into The Ark too.) why am I standing at a campus bus stop, wound up at Michigan. whether they’re likely to survive or not. I had been avoiding Ann Arbor un- So I returned to the swamp—to see In any case, I don’t know how Bych- til then. I had attended the University him, and play gigs. (My other kids went kov was introduced to Paul Fetler, but the of Michigan during the hippie era and to small liberal arts colleges.) first piece we played in Buffalo were these hadn’t learn much. There had been a I couldn’t get the Michigan Daily to three poems of Walt Whitman that Paul quasi-ban on book learning then. The write up Yiddishe Cup. Ever. I tried. The set to music. (It is those settings that be- foreign language requirement had been reporters wouldn’t return calls. Maybe gin the A2SO’s recording.) Right after the oppressive according to protestors, and the reporters weren’t be too crazy about introduction, I said to myself, “Oh, this is the psych teaching assistants—leading T- talking to a klezmer guy. a person who knows what he’s writing.” Groups—gave everyone A’s, in protest of When I had been a Daily reporter, I We played it on a tour even, including at grading. Until I signed up. Then it went had enjoyed the John Lennon and Miles Carnegie Hall. And it stayed with me for to pass/fail. Davis assignments, not the one where I a long time. We played the violin concerto When my own kids started looking profiled the Discount Records clerk who as well, and some other pieces by Paul. But at colleges, I told them Michigan was a played sax. (That sax player, Steve Mac- swamp. Too big, too impersonal. kay, turned out to be pretty good. He cut then the years went by and I forgot about Lea with Yiddishe Cup and friends them—until a couple of years ago. It was I rooted for Ohio State over Michigan. some records with the Stooges.) right after a performance we gave of Lin- I had a problem! I told Michigan to stop send- freezing my ass off.” Lea didn’t know who to kugel at the Daily; coln Portraits by Copland. (Former Uni- ing me alumni mail. But for $75, I hedged and For Yiddishe Cup’s Ark gig, I picked Jan- the young Daily reporters were always rotat- versity of Michigan football coach, Lloyd sent a donation every year. You never knew. uary (2005). Not too many rational Cleve- ing in and out. They missed a good dish. Carr, and former U-M basketball coach, Thanks to super-fan Lea Grossman, I landers scheduled weddings in January, so Lea moved to New Jersey in early 2009. Tommy Amaker served as narrators for wound up back in Ann Arbor, big-time. Lea we had an opening. Yiddishe Cup has played The Ark yearly n that piece.) After the concert I had din- was 60-something and got around like a coed. Ann Arbor’s weather was just like Cleve- since 2005. ner with the Blaskes, as I often do, because The woman could dance, party, and cook. She land’s. Crappy. And we got a huge crowd we’re just like family. [Tom Blaske, who is knew every Jewish dance and sang “Tumbala- at the club. That was weird. The difference Upcoming show: Saturday, January the narrator of the Walt Whitman poems laika” on stage with Yiddishe Cup at The Ark. between Ann Arbor and Cleveland was Ann 23, 2010, 8 p.m. at The Ark, 316 S. Main on the new A2SO recording, coached the Lea lived near North Campus in a univer- Arbor had a puffy coat brigade. The worse Street, for tickets, call 761-1451 or go to two coaches for their roles in the Lincoln sity-affiliated retirement community. It was the weather, the more the puffy coaters came wwwtheark.org. Tickets are $20 or $10 Portraits performance. Blaske, who is a like a dorm for seniors—real seniors. out. It was almost an Upper Midwest can-do with a student ID.

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Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 25 I Feature

False witnesses' “vigil” continues into seventh year, continued from page 1

not the last people they see before entering the limit signs and hulking tree trunks. Henry Henry. (“Can you imag- main sanctuary to worship their God. Now well into their sixth year of standing, ine parents saddling a kid with Back across the street, also observing the pro- they have yet to gain any meaningful dialogue that?!” he once complained to a testers are a couple bicycling along the side streets with the synagogue’s leadership or base congre- member of Beth Israel.) Though with their teenage daughter trailing close behind. gation. They have also fallen short on repeated coy about his previous career, They slow up at particular intersection attempts with local elected bodies to boycott Herskovitz is very comfortable across from one demonstrator when the father Israeli goods or repudiate its sovereignty as a saying his advocacy on behalf of says “It’s a holiday, but those people are Jewish Jewish state. Palestinians has become his life’s too,” in response to an inaudible question from work and true calling. the girl, no older than 15. The driving force He first started demonstrating x “So, wait, the Jewish people are against Is- That said, the core of the group remains in 2003, he says, out of frustra- rael?” she asks, her eyebrows furrowed under- committed to a belief that not just Israelis, but tion from being denied a forum neath her protective helmet. all Jews who support a Jewish national home, amongst other Jews to discuss his “Yes. Well those ones are,” he responds, pick- are responsible for inflicting tragedy upon trag- particular view of the conflict, ing up speed as they whiz by, “But you’ve got to edy on Palestinians. which he says was shaped greatly Despite their dwindling numbers and losses F o by G regory P hoto consider the source.” by a visit to Palestinian refugee Mozhgan Savabiesfahini Indeed. before the University of Michigan Student As- camps in 2002. Though they’ve become visible fixtures sembly, the U-M Board of Regents, the Ann Ar- He said he hoped to appeal to the Jewish his own signs and blown-up photo he took of along that stretch of roadway on the Sabbath, bor City Council, the Ann Arbor People’s Food consciousness after the suffering he saw, alter a Palestinian woman weeping over the rubble not much is known of the individuals who Co-op, and the Interfaith Council for Peace and the congregation members’ course of action of her demolished home. His long white hair are loathed by some and strangely revered by Justice, don’t let them hear you say they’ve lost and have them question their support of Israel. and frothy, prolonged beard make Metz hard to If those motives were true, the extreme tactics miss, and he isn’t hiding from anybody. backfired, delegitimized their mission and in- Somewhat of a throwback from Ann Arbor’s stead galvanized a Jewish community against counter-culture and anti-war movements, Metz them, Jewish and non-Jewish observers of the often spoke his mind on the Israeli-Palestinian situation said. conflict through frequent letters to the editor “I’ve heard a pretty wide range of opinions submissions to the Ann Arbor News, and has at- about the Middle East [in the congregation] in- tempted rational dialogue with opponents. cluding no lack of people very critical of the But don’t expect much objectivity on the Israeli government,” said Dan Cutler, an Ann topic. The retired computer programmer said Arbor resident and Beth Israel member. But he grew up in a Jewish home with blind love for the picketers don’t care about actual opinions Israel instilled by his parents. But his disillusion among real people in the congregation, he con- with the Vietnam War spread to the Arab-Israeli tends. They use the Jewish families simply as a conflicts of that time and provided a new line of backdrop to denouncing opinions they imagine thinking about the Jewish state. congregants hold. Cutler cites a disturbing en- Decades later, his own journeys to disputed counter when the picketers first showed up. One territories after the second Intifada solidified his told him, “Jewish prayers should be disrupted. desire to take his ex-hippie wares to a new cause. You pray for genocide.” A white-haired woman But Metz’s story is replete with contradic- holding a sign denouncing Israel rushed over tions. He married his first wife, Rosemary, in to add, “It’s true! It’s true!” and when he turned Detroit in 1967, but only after she converted to to enter the synagogue she yelled, “Come back Judaism, he said. here. I’m not through with you yet!” “I had already pretty much rejected (Juda- Cutler’s disdain is shared by many, includ- ism) at that point and I didn’t really want her ing those who have no connection to the syna- to, but she did, for me,” he said recently when gogue, but who respect the congregation’s right confronted with facts from court records. Aimee Smith of the Huron Valley Greens Party amplifies her objections to Celebrate Israel to worship free of outside disturbances. “The Their marriage lasted nearly 20 years and Day outside the JCC on May 17, 2009. Though not Muslim, Smith who wears a hijab, scolded thing that twinges me is that it’s the impropri- took almost another two years to dissolve, ac- the crowd, “Stop pretending you’re from Arabia. Be proud of your European roots.” At a ety of doing it in front of a place of worship,” cording to divorce records. Though not specifi- previous JCC event she chanted, “Defecating on children’s drawings will not bring peace.” said Stephen Pastner, a retired anthropology cally detailed in legal briefs, diverging views on Smith, who brought her daughter to help shout down the Jewish community event, was her professor at the University of Michigan, with Judaism had become a factor in the marriage, party’s candidate for Congress. an Islamic world focus that causes him to be he said. They settled on joint custody, but Metz particularly irked by distortions of historical/ had physical custody of the couple’s four chil- others in the community as examples of the any momentum for their cause or activism on a cultural fact. Pastner has created his own com- dren, ages 4 to 17, at the time of filing. Constitution in action. larger, more meaningful scale. memorative t-shirts with caricature depictions Though he is now a Quaker, Metz—after a And most of them like it that way, happy “We don’t measure it, but there is a prepon- of the protesters, whom he likes to call “Hersko- long pause—acknowledges that two of his four to lend the soles of their shoes to a cause they derance of support among passersby who honk, vites.” They tend to label Herskovitz and other children are practicing Jews today and don’t believe in, but eager to operate in silence and and increasingly so,” said Witnesses founder and members of the group as “self-hating” Jews and have much respect for his efforts. virtual anonymity. One hijab-wearing protes- vigil creator Henry Herskovitz. honestly question some members’ sanity. It was right before and during that period of tor on the synagogue sidewalk covered her face “Certainly, we get three or four middle fin- Herskovitz acknowledges regularly attend- transition through the divorce that finances be- with a placard when confronted by a photogra- gers each day, but no one’s running their car off ing sessions with a therapist over the years, but came a stiff challenge, he said. He insists that at pher. Her sign alerted cars on Washtenaw Ave- the road at us.” insists he isn’t crazy. Rosemary’s urging, he turned to the local Jew- nue: “Zionist Lobby Inside.” Peeking out to find While most of the demonstrators prefer ob- “I think that critics always want to find a ish Federation for help with clothing and other the photographer still there, she ducked back scurity—many refused to be interviewed under real personality flaw and try to exploit that needs for his family. behind the sign and screamed, “I know you’re their real names for this story—the same can’t be and say, ‘that’s the reason,’” he said. “What that Along with the Shabbat protests, Metz is a going to assassinate me!” said for Herskovitz, their unequivocal leader. does is create a cheap diversion of the public’s fixture with his signs outside the Federation’s Once at least a dozen strong—with others Herskovitz, 63, is a long-time Ann Arbor attention. Pay no attention to the Israeli atroc- larger gatherings and planned to picket this willing to come in the carload from neighbor- resident and recent retiree from an engineering ities, but focus on Henry so nobody wants to year’s Main Event, featuring nationally syndi- ing Ypsilanti and even Dearborn—the weekly firm in Tecumseh. He said he works part-time take up the issue.” cated radio talk show host Peter Sagal. vigils are down to about four regulars. driving a vehicle for a local car dealership he re- He said groups like the Federation are what Resilient, and seeking as much attention as fused to name for publicity purposes. The wingman need to be stopped because of the money they possible along Ann Arbor’s main entrance-way Although he claims to have attended services If Herskovitz is the captain, then Sol Metz is raise for Israel. He is convinced the majority thoroughfare, the group makes up for their lack at the synagogue he now pickets, an initial search easily his first mate in the protest effort. goes to military projects and settlements rather of numbers, and over-abundance of signs by revealed no member by that name. Perhaps it is No longer right by his side, Metz, cofounder than humanitarian causes, despite his own ex- placing them on car windshields, leaning them because for much of his time in Ann Arbor the of the group, typically stands two to three feet perience with them. against fire hydrants, and making use of speed Pittsburg native was known by his given name, from Herskovitz each and every week, carrying continued on nextpage 26 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 continued from previous page chatrooms and mes- But with a new Herskovitz and the others said they feel a sage boards, and does board and unclarified hardening of spirits from the congregation. He’s aware of the hypocrisy, but remains un- not buy into reports of by-laws on a boycott “I think it’s unrelated to the tactics,” he said. fazed by it. Coleman’s inactivity. process, the Co-op was “I think, I hope, that we’re humble enough to “That’s fair to say, but I don’t see a big prob- not prepared for the see if there is another group reaching a syna- lem with it,” Metz, 66, explained. “The U.S. Not just a Jewish controversy those af- gogue or a Jewish community somewhere else government helps me too, but I don’t have any problem filiated with the “Wit- using tactics different than ours, we’ll follow problem criticizing them either. What has become nesses” and blowback their tactics. But I haven’t seen it.” “I didn’t want the (Federation’s) help and I increasingly clear that followed. In the meantime, the congregation will re- didn’t think they [his children] needed it.” over the years is that “We spent about main resilient. Metz said he has recently remarried to some- the group’s futility $5,000, lost a year of “What I tell people is to join us inside,” Rabbi one not as active in the cause, but a believer who in terms of swaying work and our out- Dobrusin said. “We live in a great country where stands firmly behind him. mainstream Jews to reach suffered because people have the right to free speech and where The others their cause has not we couldn’t focus on we can gather as a people to celebrate who we prevented them from much else. It totally are. And that part is not going to change.” n Also protesting is Gloria Harb, a resident of being as ineffective took us off mission,” Glencoe Hills apartments in Pittsfield Township. outside the local Jew- said former board She said she participates because she believes ish community. president Linda Di- the United States’ political system is corrupted Magen David Adom Their members ane Feldt. Again, their by Jews intent on furthering Israel’s agenda be- have been removed by tactics overshadowed fore America’s. Though a staunch liberal, Harb beneficiary of picketers' police from Ann Arbor their message. said her greatest concern is that the pro-Israel City Council meetings “It really just closed persistance lobby is so prevalent and powerful in Wash- Marcia Federbush and their behavior doors, and that’s the WJN staff writers ington D.C., that President Barack Obama will forced changes to Council’s public comment tragedy in this,” Schermerhorn said. “An open cave to pressure on the Middle East peace pro- SPURN (Synagogue Protest UNACCEPT- policies. The Interfaith Council for Peace and discussion would’ve done some good, at least cess and allow harmful concessions. ABLE! Respond Now!) was created as a grass- Justice decided to close down its Middle East some educating,” he said. She sat dumbfounded after a recent protest roots campaign by Beth Israel congregants as Task Force and disruptive behavior has been pondering the notion that hawkish right-wing- a way to alleviate the frustration caused by banned from ICPJ meetings and gatherings. What’s next? ers both here and in Israel have the same fear. the picketing outside their shul. Congregants According to Chuck Warpehoski, “Earlier this After years of disrespect and public acri- “I’m just one member of the group, and I chose to respond by doing good deeds; specif- year the Interfaith Roundtable had Henry es- mony, the congregation and protesters are as focus on the American public and breaking the ically, raising money for American Friends of corted out of their meeting by the police. Since polarized as they’ve ever been, each resolute not silence,” she said. “I know there are some of us Magen David Adom (AFMDA, website http:// then the Roundtable has changed their format to to budge on principle and pride. who hold out hope of reaching some of those www.afmda.org/) to help fund Israel’s national invitation-only, in part to promote deeper shar- Is there any room to maneuver toward some people in the synagogue, but not me.” emergency medical, disaster, ambulance, and ing, but I think also to stop Henry’s disruptions. resolution? On most Saturdays, congregants and pass- blood bank service. They chose Magen David Henry’s actions have been very disruptive in the Herskovitz insists he won’t stop without a ersby will also see Marcia Federbush holding Adom because it is a humanitarian organiza- community. I’ve heard him heckle speakers at a dialogue with Beth Israel’s Rabbi Robert Do- signs. Though the smallest in height and the tion serving all victims of violence without rally organized by the Muslim community, and brusin, and an incredible gesture on the con- oldest at 75, Federbush brings some noteworthy regard to ethnicity or religion. I’ve seen him counter-protest a candlelight vigil gregation’s behalf. stature to the group. SPURN (website http://www.aaspurn. for peace in Gaza and southern Israel.” “I speak for myself, but if they take the flag In 1988 she was inducted into the Michigan org/) has been raising money since July 30, Herskovitz and his group’s actions have down from the bima, I’m gone,” he said. “Show Women’s Hall of Fame for her pioneering work 2004. Thus far, they have raised over $141,000, earned them a reputation, to say the least. the rest of the world that you are truly a place battling gender discrimination in education. and have received contributions from more “They are annoying, they are distasteful and of worship and not a place of national support She divorced her husband before their 32nd an- than 500 donors. A small cadre of SPURN they sometimes can be painful, but ultimately, for the State of Israel. Take the flag down, and niversary about a year later. Until about a year donors continues to contribute based on the they’re not serious,” said David Shtulman, ex- Henry’s gone.” ago, her daughter, Laurel, was a mainstay at the number of picketers each week (or in a lump ecutive director of the Jewish Federation of The request is absurd, Rabbi Dobrusin Shabbat protests and staunch defender in local sum each year). Other donors have given one Greater Ann Arbor. “In medical terms, they’d said.“It will not happen,” he insisted. “We have media and blogs. or more contributions unrelated to the num- be hemorrhoids.” no obligation to them to consider what they ask However, she no longer joins them and is now ber of picketers. Many congregant families Yet in their search for legitimacy among Ann us to do.” a member of Beth Israel Congregation herself. (and their relatives) have donated, but they Arbor’s progressives, they have been able to dis- Though not a religious symbol, the flag has “She had an epiphany, of sorts, I guess,” Her- have also received contributions from Ann rupt a few Ann Arbor institutions where you’d a place in the synagogue in order to represent a skovitz said. “Laurel’s gone to the dark side. She Arbor residents without a direct Beth Israel least expect. In one example, former protesters sovereign state, recognized by the world as the quit the vigils, and voted for McCain.” connection, and literally from people all over Aimee Smith and Michelle Kinnucan ascended Jewish homeland, he added. Dialogue with any Apparently no longer with the group are Dr. the world. “In the end,” states SPURN orga- to leadership positions in the local Green Party. religious, political, or humanitarian group is Katherine Wilkerson and immigration attorney nizer Barry Gross, “we cannot control what Once focused on building-block issues like predicated on mutual respect and acceptance Blaine Coleman. those outside our doors are doing. What we the environment, instant run-off voting, and of the legitimacy of the State of Israel. Herskovitz said Wilkerson stopped partici- can do is to make sure that the prejudice they domestic social justice, the party quickly be- Don’t bet on it, said Metz, reveling in the pating in the demonstrations after losing her flaunt every Saturday results in good actions came laser focused on Palestinian rights under supposed momentum gained by the group position with the Packard Community Clinic. that benefit Jews and others in need.” Smith’s and Kinnucan’s leadership. last year when Hiller’s Market made a minor She stood trial on misdemeanor charges of in- To stand with SPURN, send checks to: “It was very difficult for the Greens to get change to some print advertisements after a terfering with police and emergency medical American Friends of Magen David Adom, any traction locally since we were blamed for feeble boycott attempt. personnel at a speech protest on the University ARMDI Midwest Region, 3175 Commercial losing the 2000 election for (Democratic Nomi- “I’m confident there will be a resolution to the of Michigan campus that also involved Cole- Avenue Suite 101, Northbrook, IL 60062. nee and Former Vice President Al) Gore and we conflict in the Middle East,” he said. “I’m not sure it man, police reports show. Write SPURN on the check or on an accom- were building it back,” said former local party will happen in my lifetime but I think it’s happen- Wilkerson was acquitted by a jury in 2007, but panying note. Donors may also call AFMDA member, founder and city council candidate ing quicker now because of the work we’re doing.” she was fired a year later over a contract dispute. with credit card information and specify that Peter Schermerhorn. Shtulman said dialogue with the protest- The circumstances were less dramatic for the donation is for SPURN. The toll free num- “But it’s gone, and it’s been gone ever since ers seems futile and he doesn’t mind taking Coleman, who was asked to leave, Herskovitz ber is (888) 674-4871. Also, donations can they [Smith and Kinnucan] were put in charge” a more direct approach to refute their claims said without really elaborating. now be made on-line at https://www.afmda. Schermerhorn, also a member of the Ann of effectiveness. “It’s accurate, we threw him out of the group,” org/. The website has been revamped and the Arbor’s People’s Food Co-op’s board of directors, If it didn’t break spirit of Shabbat, he’d he said bluntly about a rumor circulated about new link does not go directly to “donate now.” saw the disruption they caused by trying to push run the sprinklers every Saturday while ser- Coleman’s departure. “I won’t say much else A donor must sign up and log in before mak- a boycott on Israeli products, and follow-up at- vices are underway. about it other than people have to be responsible ing a donation. The donor needs to click the tempts to join the group’s leadership in 2008. “There’s a sense of entitlement they have for their own decisions. But he’s on the right side box for this question—“Would you like this Because of their involvement, and specifically that everything they want to do is okay, and I of the issue as far as I’m concerned.” donation to be made in honor of one of our because of opposition to their tactics of protest- don’t think the Jewish community needs to ac- Pastner, an unpaid watchdog of the pro- campaigns?” And then, a drop down menu ing a house of worship, both efforts were defeated, cept it,” Shtulman said. “It’s my wish that they testers on area blogs, said he knows Coleman’s appears. SPURN is one of the choices. soundly, Schermerhorn recalled. shall become pariahs in the community.” writing after years of engaging it via on-line Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 27 I Kosher Cuisine

For success on the festival of oil, fry, fry again By Linda Morel NEW YORK (JTA)—Several Chanukahs ago added to the Chanukah repertoire until centu- my husband came home with an electric deep ries later. Jews from various countries now fry Deep frying turkeys fryer large enough to accommodate a 12-pound many kinds of foods, including donuts, fritters Getting started: turkey. I’d heard of suburban folks frying tur- and pancakes. 1. While some people fry turkeys by rigging up garbage cans on barbecue grills or above open fires, keys in their garages, but because we live in a My husband’s family hailed from the Jewish this is a dangerous practice. A safer route is to purchase a deep fryer from a reputable company, such Manhattan apartment I was less than thrilled community of Trieste, Italy, so every Chanukah as Masterbuilt. You can contact Masterbuilt online at http://www.masterbuilt.com, or by phone in with the gigantic appliance—which I had no we also deep fry rice balls. An Italian delicacy, Columbus, Ga., at (800) 489-1581. room to store. these crunchy balls, held together with ricotta 2. For safety sake, it is imperative to follow all instructions that accompany a deep fryer. That first Chanukah, however, I acquiesced cheese, are a sensational hors d’oeuvres or side 3. When deep frying, you must use fresh (not frozen) turkeys. to deep frying a turkey, which turned out to dish. 4. Use an oil with a high smoking point (preferably 450°.). Aficionados recommend peanut oil as be more delicious than you can imagine. The While fooling around in my kitchen, I’ve it imparts the most marvelous flavor. However, corn oil, safflower oil and canola oil are also safe bird was moist on the inside and crisp on the successfully fried some unexpected foods from choices. With the quantity of oil required, about 2 to 4 gallons, I suggest purchasing the oil at Costco outside, an achievement that anyone who has Jewish cuisine into a whole new identity. Slices or another of the big box stores. roasted a turkey can tell you is no easy feat. Sur- of sour pickles undergo a crusty transforma- The brine: prisingly the bird didn’t taste greasy. tion when they hit hot oil. Better yet, the preparation time was reduced Chopped fish, eggs and matzah meal are Non-kosher turkeys must be brined before deep frying them. However, because kosher turkeys have already been salted, they should not be brined. from several hours to 45 minutes. usually mixed together to form patties that Since then, fried turkey has become one are simmered in broth to produce gefilte fish. Ingredients: of our most treasured holiday traditions. Of But instead of boiling these large oval patties, 1/2 pound kosher salt 24 ice cubes course on the first night of Chanukah, we fill I roll the batter into small balls and deep fry 1 pound dark brown sugar 12-pound turkey 6 quarts of hot water four skillets with latkes. Nothing is crunchier them. After one taste, you’ll never settle for Brining bag (available at Williams Sonoma) or unused tall kitchen trash bag than grated potatoes browned in spattering oil. bland gefilte fish again. But on another night of this eight-day holiday, Frightened by the thought of dealing with Preparation: we invite a crowd and deep fry a turkey. As we raw fish? Forget the stories about your bubbe 1. In a large bowl, stir salt and sugar in hot water light colorful Chanukah candles, our apartment who tackled a live karp in her bathtub every until dissolved. Add ice cubes to cool down the fills with the scent of serious searing. Watching time she cooked gefilte fish. Instead, ask your brine. If it’s still warm, chill it in the refrigerator. the candles twinkle, our family and friends can’t fishmonger to grind the haddock, whitefish or When cooled, pour the brine into a brining bag wait to gobble the turkey. pike you order. From there, handling the fish or line a pot deep enough to hold a turkey with an unused tall kitchen trash bag. While the brin- Deep fried turkey is a fitting way to celebrate batter is as easy as forming hamburger patties. ing bag is stiff enough to hold its shape, the trash Chanukah, the festival of oil, because its prepa- On the theory that you can fry anything, I bag is flimsy so it must be kept inside the large ration requires several gallons of oil. But how suggest widening your Chanukah repertoire. pot during brining. did fried foods become entwined with Chanu- Here are some ideas: 2. Place the turkey into the bag and seal it. To kah’s culinary history? • Submerge any kind of pitted black or keep the turkey submerged, cover the outside of It started more than 2,100 years ago when green olives (but not bottled or canned) the bag with weights, such as unopened cans of the Greek king of Syria, Antiochus, occupied into hot oil, where they will develop a de- food. Do not brine the turkey in the deep fryer. Israel. During his reign, the Jews and their cus- licious pucker within a minute or two. Refrigerate for 8 to 16 hours. toms faired poorly. When one of his officers • If pressed for time, slide thinly sliced 3. Thoroughly rinse off the brine before deep frying the turkey. Pat the turkey dry completely with arrived in a town outside of Jerusalem, he de- potatoes or florets of broccoli and cauli- paper towels because water can cause a flare up when exposed to hot oil. manded the Jews take part in a Greek ceremony flower into a pot of hot oil until they turn that entailed bowing to an idol and eating pork, delightfully brown. After placing them on 4. Before deep frying the turkey, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for technique, timing, and amount of oil needed. both of which are forbidden by Jewish law. paper towels and sprinkling with kosher Outraged by such disrespect, the Maccabee salt, you’ll savor every crisp mouthful. family led a revolt to overthrow the occupiers. • Canned chickpeas can be fried into a Beer battered sour pickles Fried rice balls Italian style After defeating the Greek army, Judah Mac- sensational hors d’oeuvre or snack. Dry 2 or 3 sour or half sour pickles, sliced 1/8- 1 egg cabee and his men began restoring the great them on paper towels. Put a mixture of inch thick. Discard ends and tiny pieces. 2 cups of cooked rice of any kind Temple in Jerusalem, which lay in ruin. curry powder, cumin, flour, paprika, and 1/4 cup flour 1 tablespoon Candles had not yet been invented, so spe- a dash of cayenne pepper into a plastic 1 egg flour cially prepared olive oil was used to light the storage bag. Place the chickpeas into the 1 cup beer 3 tablespoons Temple’s menorah. Finding only a one-day sup- bag in batches, seal, and shake them until 2 teaspoons ricotta cheese baking 3 tablespoons ply of the oil to keep the menorah burning, the they’re coated. Deep fry them in oil, drain powder olive oil, Maccabees were awestruck that it lasted eight on paper towels, sprinkle with kosher salt, 1 cup panko, or more, if days, long enough for a new batch to be made. and serve them immediately. Japanese- needed This spawned the eight-day celebration of In spite of these other delicacies, I have to style bread- 1. Beat egg in a Chanukah and the custom of observing the admit that I wait all year for Chanukah because crumbs. large bowl. Add holiday by frying foods in oil. of the crackling texture of potato pancakes. But Can be purchased in most supermarkets, the cooked rice. Stir to blend. Add the flour and During the Maccabees’ time, cheese pan- I find I can eat latkes for only so many days in a many gourmet food stores, and Asian ricotta cheese. Blend until well combined. cakes were a popular fried food. Latkes weren’t row before seeking other foods to fry. n groceries. 2. With your fingers, form rice mixture into balls 1 quart corn oil, or more, if needed 1 inch in diameter. Your hands will be sticky, but Safety tips for stovetop deep frying 1. Drain pickle slices on both sides on paper tow- manipulate rice mixture until you form perfect 1. Use a deep pot or saucepan, not a skillet or frying pan. A pot that comes with a basket els. Place flour on a plate and roll slices in flour. tight spheres or they will fall apart while frying. insert is preferable. 2. Place corn oil to a depth of 3 inches in a medi- 3. Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Place 2. Face the pot’s handle away from the edge of the stove to reduce the chances of knocking um sized deep saucepan. Heat oil on a medium balls on the foil. Cover balls with plastic wrap and over a pot of hot oil. If possible, place the pot of oil on a back burner. flame to 375° on an oil and candy thermom- refrigerate them for 1 hour, or until they are firm. 3. To reduce the chances of spatters or oil bubbling over, do not fill the pot or saucepan with eter, or until a drop of water sizzles in oil. 4. Place olive oil in a large skillet, rolling it oil more than halfway. 3. Using an electric mixer, whisk together egg, around until bottom surface is well oiled. Place 4. Heat the oil on a medium flame. Do not raise the flame. beer, and baking powder. Add panko and blend as many rice balls as will fit comfortably in the 5. Always use a long-handled, slotted utensil to submerge or retrieve food from hot oil. until well incorporated. skillet, leaving room to turn the balls with a Wear pot mitts when touching this utensil. 4. Immediately dip floured pickle slices into wooden or plastic spoon. When bottom of balls 6. Never submerge frozen, ice cold or wet foods into hot oil as they may cause flare-ups. batter. Let excess drip off. Using a long handled brown, roll them around until another surface 7. To drain fried foods, lay down paper towels a reasonable distance from the flame so they slotted utensil, submerge a few slices into the oil. browns. Continue frying until balls are com- do not catch fire. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until batter puffs and pletely brown all around. With a long-handled 8. Keep small children away from the stove when you are deep frying foods. turns crunchy. Remove slices with long-han- slotted spoon, move balls to a plated line with 9. If the oil in the pot sputters or boils up, turn off the flame. Do not use that oil again. dled utensil and drain on paper towels. Serve paper towels. Continue frying until all balls are 10. When you are finished deep frying, turn off the flame and let the oil cool to room tem- immediately. crunchy and brown. Serve immediately. perature before discarding it, preferably in a bottle or can with a top. Yield: Approximately 30-40 pickle slices Yield: 20 rice balls

28 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 29 Lax, continued from page 1

an outstanding attorney specializing in zoning, agency also provides crucial support to families employment law, and litigation. He is listed in in crisis, at-risk children and teens, isolated and The Best Lawyers in America 2010 and is also low-income older adults and their caregivers, professor emeritus in the department of ur- career services for unemployed individuals, as ban planning at the U-M. Since 1990, Jerry well as services for refuges and émigrés. Last has been a partner at Bodman, LLP. In addi- year’s award recipients, Rachel Bendit and Mark tion to Jerry’s professional career, he has also Bernstein, established an Emergency Aid Fund lent his many talents to a wide array of impor- to assist individuals and families impacted by tant causes. Jerry has served on the boards of the current economic crisis. Since September the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, 2008, JFS has served 800 clients in crisis, provid- Temple Beth Emeth, Performance Network ing more than $20,000 in direct cash assistance and Planned Parenthood. for eviction prevention, utility shut-off and How have Judie and Jerry managed to find unexpected bills (medical, auto repairs, home so much time for volunteer work while still bal- repairs, etc.). ancing their professional lives? Their choices JFS has leveraged gifts from individual do- and decisions arise from the causes which most nors and rabbis, as well as a $15,000 Commu- align with their personal interests and to the nity Emergency Fund established by the Jewish needs of the community. “In a community like Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, to apply for Ann Arbor,” Jerry noted, “there are so many and obtain additional funds on behalf of cli- worthwhile organizations that I would find it ents. FEMA and the Washtenaw Home Build- difficult not to make the time for participating ers Association Foundation have provided an in their work.” Judie summed it up well, “You additional $13,500 in funding for emergency get back more than you give”—words of true aid. These gifts and grants, along with support philanthropists. from United Way and other community part- The Claire and Isadore Bernstein Lead- ners, also partially subsidize the part-time crisis ership Award was established to honor the intake social worker who is the point-of-entry founding members of Jewish Family Services. at JFS for crisis calls, information and referral, In 1977, Claire and Iz (z”l), organized a re- and case management. settlement committee to assist Russian Jews Judie and Jerry have requested that pro- who came to Washtenaw County and these ceeds from the January 24 event, as well as gifts activities led to the creation of JFS in 1993. in their honor, be earmarked to the Emergency Today, JFS remains the primary Washtenaw Aid Fund. This request is another example of County resource for resettlement of immi- their commitment to the community at this grants and refugees. JFS also assisted with the time of need. temporary resettlement of families displaced To register, or for more information about by Hurricane Katrina and is currently helping the event, visit the JFS website at www.jfsannar- to resettle hundreds of local refugees. bor.org or contact Robin Little at 769-0209 or But this is only a part of JFS’s mission. The [email protected]. n

A2SO CD release, continued from page 24

WJN: It’s a wonderful recording. At our house, the United States most important compos- we’ve been listening to it constantly. ers, on the same level as the great founders of the 20th century American scene, like Co- Lipsky: You know, you wonder why a person pland and Barber. I hope that this CD will like Paul is not more recognized. I’ve asked contribute to this understanding, and that, myself that many times. And if you have a as a result, more orchestras will perform chance to talk with him, you’ll understand. these pieces and his other important pieces. You know, in this age, you have to know And I hope that he will be able to join us. I how to market yourself. He is so shy… he think next year he turns 90. That’s a big one. wouldn’t do anything to promote himself. He’s really old school, European. “You like it, WJN: Are you planning more recordings? fine. If you don’t like it, it’s OK.” And in this environment you need to have a little of that Lipsky: I hope we can do more of these. The or- push. As my father used to say, a schpilke in chestra has proved it can really go through toches, [Laughter] a needle in the toches, that. Because it’s such an undertaking. It’s an somebody to push you. [More laughter] expensive and musically challenging experi- Of course, I didn’t know Paul when he ence—for any orchestra. I imagined, once we was forty or fifty. But, I’ve heard this from had the first one done, that it would be easier several people that he’s always been this way. to do another one, but then, with the eco- You know how some people mellow with nomic climate… I guess we’ll have to wait to age. He’s always been like that. But, when do the second one. But, you know, once you you read his resume, and you see the people have the first baby, the second is easier. with whom he studied, Boris Blacher in Ber- lin, Paul Hindemith at Yale. These are giants. WJN: That’s what they say. I wouldn’t know. And then you hear his music, where he got [Laughter] all these ideas, and you speak with him and hear him describe his style as, ”progressive Lipsky: That’s right. [More laughter] lyricism.” Progressive, because he uses an The Ann Arbor Symphony will host a celebra- obviously 20th century language, but it’s tory CD release party on Thursday, December always something you can relate to. He is al- 17, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Michigan Theatre. ways inviting you. You can be sure, that if you Paul Fetler, Arie Lipsky, Aaron Berofsky and give it a second hearing, you’ll like his music. Tom Blaske will all be there. For more informa- It’s something that really grows on you. So, I tion, check the A2SO’s website, www.a2so.com. hope and I feel that this will put him where he needs to be. Because I think he’s one of

30 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Calendar Affordable design for brochures, I advertising, invitations and all of your personal or business needs. Make your next legal system by following the intriguing dis- design project a December 2009 cussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a com- Tuesday 8 posite of practical law, logical argumentation and moral teachings. Study of the original Talmud SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Tuesday 1 tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Friday 4 Lunch, noon; Games and activities including with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games, $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Mussar: TBE. With Judy Freedman. 11:30 a.m. Lunch, noon; Games and activities including SoulQuest: Jewish Learning Institute. “The Jour- Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games, ney Through Life, Death, and Beyond.” Fall se- Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at by Dennis Platte and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. mester course examines the twin mysteries of 734.483.9619 761-2765 for information. life and death that have fascinated philosophers “Monotheism and Mutiny: Holy War in An- [email protected] cient Judaism.” Frankel Institute. Presented Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Followed by and laymen since the dawn of time. 9:30–11 a.m. by Aharon Openheimer. Room 1022, 202 songs and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. at Chabad House and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. South Thayer Street. Noon. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. Movie Tuesday: TBE. With Rabbi Lisa Delson. SoulQuest: Jewish Learning Institute. “The Jour- Viewing of the film Trembling Before God, a ney Through Life, Death, and Beyond.” Fall se- Saturday 5 documentary that includes interviews and mester course examines the twin mysteries of follows several gay and lesbian Orthodox life and death that have fascinated philosophers Jews, and also interviews several rabbis and Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., and laymen since the dawn of time. 9:30–11 a.m. psychologists regarding their views on homo- followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m at Chabad House and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. sexuality in Orthodox Judaism. 1 p.m. Sweatshirt Shabbat: BIC. Followed by Cholent Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Kiddush. 9:30 a.m. All ages and levels welcome including UM and All ages and levels welcome including UM and non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. For information, call 936-2367. mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before For information, call 936-2367. sundown. Every Saturday. Spirituality Book Club: TBE. Led by Cantor Chanukah Wonderland: Chabad. Chanukah Annie Rose. This month’s selection is A New Family Latke Hop: JCC. Games, crafts, havdalah, store in heart of downtown at 500 Liberty Earth, by Eackhart Tolle who contends that dinner and live music. Special mystery guests Street. Chanukah supplies for sale plus pro- grams for children all week. Party for adults humans are on the verge of creating a new will headline the event. $12/adult members; and children on Sunday, December 13 from world by a personal transformation that shifts $5/children over age two. $14/adult non- 5–7 p.m. Store open through December 16. our attention away from our ever-expanding members; $6/children over age two. RSVP at egos. 7:30 p.m. 971-0990. 6–9 p.m. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Bi-monthly men’s study group. 7:30 p.m. “Walking with God Part I–Tanakh and Rab- Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study binic Literature:” BIC. Presented by Rabbi group code of law for Shabbat, and study of “Walking with God Part I–Tanakh and Rab- Kim Blumenthal. 8 p.m. Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every binic Literature:” BIC. Presented by Rabbi Saturday. Kim Blumenthal. 8 p.m. Topics in Jewish Law: AAOM. Class led by Rabbi Glogower covering various topics treated over Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Topics in Jewish Law: AAOM. Class led by Rabbi Gl- a period of one to several weeks. Material is ogower covering various topics treated over a pe- riod of one to several weeks. Material is presented presented in English and Hebrew. 8 p.m. at in English and Hebrew. 8 p.m. at U-M Hillel. U-M Hillel. Sunday 6 Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the standing it is no simple matter. Study the standing it is no simple matter. Study the prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah text in the original, together with the classical text in the original, together with the classical reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Chabad House. Every Sunday. Beth Israel Café: BIC Women’s League. Open to Wednesday 2 parents of religious school students, both men Wednesday 9 and women. 9:30 a.m. Beth Israel Social Hall. Seasons of Mussar II Group: BIC. 9:45 a.m. Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring dairy lunch. Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Judaism 101: BIC. Shabbat. 8 p.m. Board Meeting: TBE. 7:30 p.m. the basic text of Chassidism and open your eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Judaism 101: BIC. Shabbat. 8 p.m. Chabad House. Every Sunday. Thursday 10 Chanukah Party: ORT. The Ann Arbor chapter of ORT America will hold its annual “Chai’Nukah” Thursday 3 Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- party at the Nature Cove Condominiums Com- ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. munity Room, 2115 Nature Cove Court. Latke Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. cook-off with prizes. Party-goers asked to bring $18 donation to ORT plus a wrapped, gently- with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise used accessory for gift exchange. RSVP to Brenda Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Riemer or Jeanne Thomas at 429-5948. 3–5 p.m. ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Weekly Workshop: TBE Sisterhood. Jewish Cooking ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 special events and guest presentations (see de- 101: Latkes. 6 p.m. Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Weekly scription below); Literary Group with Sidney special events and guest presentations (see de- Basic Judaism: TBE. With Rabbi Lisa Delson. Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner scription below); Literary Group with Sidney 7:45 p.m. at 971-0990 for name of current book. Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner Lilith Salon: TBE Sisterhood. 7:45 p.m. Health Check and Discussion: JCC Seniors. At at 971-0990 for name of current book. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- 12:30 p.m. a registered nurse from Care Re- Presentation: JCC Seniors. Birthday celebration ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of sponse will take and record blood pressures and for all with birthdays in December for family life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. address questions. (This event is repeated the and friends. Lunch and birthday cake at 12:30 second Thursday of each month.) Followed at p.m. followed by presentation and discussion 1 p.m. by a discussion of how the first decade on depression and older adults led by Mariko Monday 7 after World War II witnessed major changes in Foulke, social worker at the University of how we lived, covering family, housing, educa- Michigan Turner Clinic. 1 p.m. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. tion, music, appliances and work. Join the fun in Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– “The Stories Jewish Homes Tell.” Frankel In- remembering what you were doing back when. Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at stitute. Presentation by Vanessa Ochs. Room Presentation: BIC Women’s League. Dr. Van- Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. 2022, 202 South Thayer Stree. Noon. essa Ochs, research fellow at the University of For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 Michigan Frankel Institute for Advanced Jew- Mussar: TBE. With Judy Freedman. 7:30 p.m. or email [email protected]. Ongoing. ish Studies, will explain her research, “Beyond Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Women’s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor Annie the Menorah and Tzedakah Box: How Do Ob- Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish Rose. 7 p.m. jects Make a Jewish Home Jewish?” 7:30 p.m.

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 31 I Calendar

Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Cha- Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Sharp- bad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Tuesday 15 en your wits and knowledge of the Jewish legal Tuesday 22 Jewish legal system by following the intriguing system by following the intriguing discussions discussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite of SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise composite of practical law, logical argumenta- Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- practical law, logical argumentation and moral with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or tion and moral teachings. Study of the original sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; teachings. Study of the original Talmud trac- $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Talmud tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Games and activities including Mahjong, quilt- tate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Lunch, noon; Games and activities including Thursday. ing, art projects and card games, weekly Bridge Mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games, Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Shalom Baby Class: JCC. One-time class for Friday 18 SoulQuest: Jewish Learning Institute. “The Friday 11 moms and babies (newborns to crawlers) fea- Journey Through Life, Death, and Beyond.” turing “Post-Baby” Strength and Body Sculpt Mussar: TBE. With Judy Freedman. 11:30 a.m. Fall semester course examines the twin mys- Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. exercises and parenting discussions. For in- Meditation: TBE. 1 p.m. teries of life and death that have fascinated Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at formation or to register, contact Halye Aisner Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. philosophers and laymen since the dawn 761-2765 for information. at 971-0990 or email [email protected]. Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at of time. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House and Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Dinner, songs Register by December 11. 9:30–10:30 a.m. 761-2765 for information. 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. SoulQuest: Jewish Learning Institute. “The Tot Shabbat, Dinner and Services: TBE. Tot Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Human Rights Shabbat: TBE. 7:30 p.m. Journey Through Life, Death, and Beyond.” Shabbat and dinner with menorahs and a All ages and levels welcome including UM and Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. Fall semester course examines the twin mys- story, followed by tot Chanukah dinner in- non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s teries of life and death that have fascinated cluding a craft project and songs. Open to the Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. philosophers and laymen since the dawn community. $5/person for dinner. Reserva- For information, call 936-2367. Saturday 12 of time. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House and tions encouraged at 665-4744. 5:30 p.m. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Bi-monthly men’s 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Latke Dinner: TBE Brotherhood. Open to the study group. 7:30 p.m. Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): community. $10/person. Reserve at www.tem- Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. All ages and levels welcome including UM and plebethemeth.org. Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- and Sanctuary Service at 10 a.m. non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Chanukah Celebration: Hadassah. The Ann standing it is no simple matter. Study the st th Kehillat Shabbat: BIC. F o r 1 through 5 graders. Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. Arbor Chapter of Hadassah celebrates with text in the original, together with the classical 11 a.m. For information, call 936-2367. latkes and a white elephant gift exchange at commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Tot Shabbat: BIC. For preschoolers and their “Walking with God Part I–Tanakh and Rab- the home of Julie Ellis, 3929 Waldenwood. families. 11:15 a.m. binic Literature:” BIC. Presented by Rabbi Bring an item for the gift exchange. Reserve Thursday 24 Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Kim Blumenthal. 8 p.m. by December 13 to Martha Young at 769-7523 Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. or email [email protected]. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour be- Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- Chanukah Shabbat: TBE. For all ages. Bring a with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; fore sundown. Every Saturday. standing it is no simple matter. Study the menorah and candles to celebrate the last Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- text in the original, together with the classical Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study night of Chanukah. 7:30 p.m. ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Jew- Friday evening services: See listing at the end of $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; ish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Sat- the calendar. Special events and guest presentations, 1 p.m.; urday. Wednesday 16 Literary Group with Sidney Warschausky at Chanukah Party: TBE Renaissance Group. 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner at 971-0990 for Dinner and white elephant gift exchange. Saturday 19 Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. name of current book. The Renaissance Group is a social group for Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m. members ages 55 and up. 6 p.m. at Chapel ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Hill Clubhouse. For details, call TBE office at Tot Chanukah Dinner: BIC. 5:30 p.m. followed by morning minyan at 9:30 a.m. Comedy Presentation: JCC Seniors. Local 665-4744. Meditation: TBE. 7:30 p.m. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: stand-up comedienne, Paddy Ash, entertains Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Judaism 101: BIC. Shabbat. 8 p.m. with her healthy humor. 1 p.m. mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish Sunday 13 Thursday 17 Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study legal system by following the intriguing discus- group code of law for Shabbat, and study of sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a compos- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. No exercise or Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every ite of practical law, logical argumentation and Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the current events session today. Intergenera- Saturday. moral teachings. Study of the original Talmud prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah tion Chanukah Celebration at 11 a.m. (see Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at details below). Special events and guest pre- tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Chabad House. Every Sunday. sentations, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Sidney Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner Sunday 20 Friday 25 the basic text of Chassidism and open your at 971-0990 for name of current book. eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philoso- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Movie: TBE. Showing of The Music Man at the Chabad House. Every Sunday. phy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Michigan Theater. Doors open at 10 a.m. Concert: JCC. The Chaverim B’Shirim choir Intergenerational Chanukah Celebration: JCC- prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah Film shown at 10:30 a.m. $7/ticket per person. will present a concert featuring the music of ECC. Children from the Early Childhood reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Concessions for breakfast and lunch, from ba- Harold Rome. Songs from the musical Call Center and seniors will celebrate Chanukah to- Chabad House. Every Sunday. gels to kosher hot dogs. Prizes. Dress in cos- Me Mister will be featured. $5 donation re- gether. Seniors will share Chanukah stories, arti- Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into tume, if desired. Tickets in advance at www. quested. Refreshments will be served. 3 p.m. facts and Chanukiot with the children. Singing, the basic text of Chassidism and open your templebethemeth.org or in the TBE office, Latkepalooza: BIC. Latke dinner with games, dancing, crafts and lunch follows. Parents and eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at 2309 Packard, Monday through Thursdays, 9 crafts, stories and lighting of the Hanukkiot. grandparents invited. 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Chabad House. Every Sunday. a.m.–5 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m.–3 p.m. 5 p.m. Discussion: JCC Seniors. At 12:30 p.m., Allison Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- Friday evening services: See listing at the end of Basic Judaism: TBE. Led by Rabbi Lisa Delson. Pollock, MSW, Jewish Family Services Geri- ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of the calendar. 7:45 p.m. atric Social Worker, will be available for dis- life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. cussion, questions and assistance. At 1 p.m., Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- Rabbi Levy of Temple Beth Emeth will join ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of Saturday 26 SPICE for Chanukah program. Monday 21 life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Caregiver Conversations: JFS. Monthly facili- Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., tated discussion for adult children in a vari- Winter Break Fun Days: JCC Youth. During followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Monday 14 ety of caregiving roles for aging parents. This school breaks, the JCC Youth Department of- Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: month’s topic is “Jewish Perspectives on Care- fers full day field trips and special activities Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- English as a Second Language Daily Classes: giving.” Caregiver Conversations is sponsored for JCC members only in grade K-5. Middle mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on by the Community Foundation for South- school students may participate as helpers for sundown. Every Saturday. a reduced fee. Bring nut-free, dairy lunch and Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mon- east Michigan, and co-sponsored by the JCC, Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study appropriate clothing for outdoor play. $36/ days–Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, AARH, TBE, BIC, and JCS. For information group code of law for Shabbat, and study day; $32/additional siblings. $10/aftercare. 2245 South State Street. For more informa- or to register, contact Abbie at 769-0209 or of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; Aftercare from 4–6 p.m. For tion, contact JFS at 769-0209 or email an- email [email protected]. 6:30–8 p.m. at Every Saturday. [email protected]. Ongoing. the JCC. information, contact Deborah Huerta at 971- 0990. December 21–31. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar Women’s Study Group: BIC. Contact Rabbi Mussar: TBE. With Judy Freedman. 7:30 p.m. Blumenthal at 665-9897 for meeting place Women’s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor and more information. 8 p.m. Annie Rose. 7 p.m.

32 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Sunday 27 January 2010 Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Friday 1 prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. 1:30 Chabad House. Every Sunday. p.m. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 for information. Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Followed by the basic text of Chassidism and open your songs and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Friday evening services: See listing at the end of Chabad House. Every Sunday. the calendar. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Saturday 2

Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., Monday 28 followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: English as a Second Language Daily Classes: Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– sundown. Every Saturday. Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. For more information, Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@jfsan- group code of law for Shabbat, and study of narbor.org. Ongoing. Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Saturday. Tuesday 29 Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar.

SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Sunday 3 with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m.; $4/session or $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Lunch, noon; Games and activities includ- Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the ing mahjong, quilting, art projects and card prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah games, and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Tuesday. Chabad House. Every Sunday. SoulQuest: Jewish Learning Institute. “The Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Journey Through Life, Death, and Beyond.” the basic text of Chassidism and open your Fall semester course examines the twin mys- eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at teries of life and death that have fascinated Chabad House. Every Sunday. philosophers and laymen since the dawn Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- of time. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House and ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- standing it is no simple matter. Study the Monday 4 text in the original, together with the classical commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– Thursday 31 Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. For more information, SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@jfsan- with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; narbor.org. Ongoing. Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- Women’s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor Annie ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; Rose. 7 p.m. $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Special events and guest presentations, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Sidney Warschausky at Tuesday 5 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner at 971-0990 for name of current book. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Video: JCC Seniors. Enjoy one hour of favorite Lunch, noon; Games and activities includ- comedian Jack Benny, the archetypal onge- ing mahjong, quilting, art projects and card blozen tightwad. 1 p.m. games, and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Cha- bad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All the Jewish legal system by following the in- ages and levels welcome including UM and triguing discussions in the Talmud. The Tal- non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s mud is a composite of practical law, logical Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. argumentation and moral teachings. Study of For information, call 936-2367. the original Talmud tractate Taanit chapter 2. Spirituality Book Club: TBE. With Cantor An- 8 p.m. Every Thursday. nie Rose. This month’s selection is Kitchen Table Wisdom, by Rachel Naomi Remen, who has a unique perspective rooted in her back- ground as a physician, professor of medicine, therapist and long-term survivor of chronic illness. 7:30 p.m. Visit our Topics in Jewish Law: AAOM. Class led by Rabbi Glogower covering various topics treated over website at a period of one to several weeks. Material is presented in English and Hebrew. 8 p.m. at www.washtenawjewishnews.com U-M Hillel.

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 33 I Calendar

Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- group code of law for Shabbat, and study of Wednesday 13 Sunday 17 standing it is no simple matter. Study the Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Ev- text in the original, together with the classical ery Saturday. Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. Beth Israel Café: BIC Women’s League. Open to commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. parents of religious school students, men and Judaism 101: BIC. Prayer. 8 p.m. women. 9 a.m. in the Social Hall. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Wednesday 6 Sunday 10 Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Thursday 14 prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Chabad House. Every Sunday. Board Meeting: TBE. 7:30 p.m. prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise the basic text of Chassidism and open your Chabad House. Every Sunday. with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Thursday 7 Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- Chabad House. Every Sunday. the basic text of Chassidism and open your ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Presentation: Frankel Institute. “Voices of the Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Weekly Holocaust,” presented by Caroline Helton ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Chabad House. Every Sunday. special events and guest presentations (see de- and Kathryn Goodson. Kerrytown Concert SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Jewish Cooking 101: TBE Sisterhood. 6 p.m. scription below); Literary Group with Sidney House. 4 p.m. with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner Presentation: BIC. Ellen Pollock, PhD, presents, Basic Judaism: TBE. With Rabbi Lisa Delson. Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- at 971-0990 for name of current book. “What We Don’t Know About the People We 7:45 p.m. ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Presentation: Frankel Institute. Naomi Love Could Fill a Book.” 7:45 p.m. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Weekly Feuchtwanger-Sarig of Tel Aviv University Basic Judaism: TBE. Led by Rabbi Lisa Delson. ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of special events and guest presentations (see de- presents, “On Reading Art: Text, Image and 7:45 p.m. life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. scription below); Literary Group with Sidney Interpretation in Early Modern Ashkenaz.” Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- Room 2022, 202 South Thayer Street. Noon. ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of at 971-0990 for name of current book. Health Check and Recital: JCC Seniors. At 12:30 life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Monday 18 Birthdays and Presentation: JCC Seniors. p.m. a registered nurse from Care Response Birthday celebration for those with January will take and record blood pressures and ad- MLK Day Performance and School’s Out Day: birthdays. Family and friends invited to join Monday 11 dress questions. (This event is repeated the JCC Youth. Free community afternoon per- for lunch and birthday cake at 12:30 p.m. Fol- second Thursday of each month.) Followed formance featuring the group Singers of Unit- lowed at 1 p.m. by a representative from the at 1 p.m. by a performance by UM School of ed Lands (time TBA), plus full day program Jewish Genealogical Society of Michigan who English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– Music violin student, Paul Dryden Trapkus. for JCC members only in grade K-5. Middle will illustrate how to get information about Mourning and Mitzvah: TBE. Second session of school students may participate as helpers for ancestors. Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. series with Cantor Annie Rose. 7:30 p.m. a reduced fee. Bring nut-free, dairy lunch and Mourning and Mitzvah: TBE. First session of For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Sharp- appropriate clothing for outdoor play. $36/ series with Cantor Annie Rose. 7:30 p.m. or email [email protected]. Ongoing. en your wits and knowledge of the Jewish legal day; $32/additional siblings. $10/aftercare. 8 Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Adult Learning: TBE. “Bible, Morality, and the system by following the intriguing discussions a.m.–4 p.m.; Aftercare from 4–6 p.m. RSVP Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish 21st Century,” with Dr. Cobi Sacerdoti. Three- in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite of for the performance and registration for the legal system by following the intriguing discus- part course providing intellectual look and practical law, logical argumentation and moral School’s Out Day are requested by January 14. sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a compos- emotional journey into the moral wisdom teachings. Study of the original Talmud tractate Contact Deborah Huerta at 971-0990. ite of practical law, logical argumentation and of the Bible, where arrogance, pride, jealousy, Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Women”s Torah Study: TBE. With Cantor An- moral teachings. Study of the original Talmud love and devotion impact human life. Also nie Rose. 7 p.m. tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. January 11, January 25 and February 8. Friday 15 Women’s Study Group: BIC. Contact Rabbi Tuesday 19 Blumenthal at 665-9897 for meeting place Friday 8 Lunch and Learn: TBE. With Rabbi Levy. Dis- and more information. 8 p.m. cussion of “Issues of Israel over Time and SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Lunch and Learn: TBE. With Rabbi Levy. Dis- Space,” examining Israel as a hope, dream, with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or cussion of “Issues of Israel over Time and Tuesday 12 fantasy, power, home and destination through $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Space,” examining Israel as a hope, dream, the lens of Israel as an eternal idea and also a Lunch, noon; Games and activities includ- fantasy, power, home and destination through SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise modern nation state. Noon. ing Mahjong, quilting, art projects and card the lens of Israel as an eternal idea and also a Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. games, and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every modern nation state. Noon. with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at Tuesday. Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Lunch, noon; Games and activities including 761-2765 for information. Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): All Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at Mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games, Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Followed by ages and levels welcome including UM and 761-2765 for information. weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. songs and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Dinner, songs Movie Tuesday: TBE. This month’s selection is Corned Beef Dinner: TBE Brotherhood. Open Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. The Lemon Tree, an Israeli drama depicting the to the community. $10/person. 6 p.m. Reserve For information, call 936-2367. Friday evening services: See listing at the end of lives of Palestinians and Israelis and their strug- at www.templebethemeth.org. “Walking With God Part II–Medieval Texts the calendar. gle to come to grips with family history, political Shabbat Service Honoring Teachers: BIC. Honor- Through Modernity:” BIC. Presented by strife, the beauty of the land, and love. 1 p.m. ing BIRS teachers followed by dinner. 6 p.m. Rabbi Kim Blumenthal. 8 p.m. Afterschool Classes Begin: JCC Youth. A variety Shabbat Service with Kol Halev: TBE. 7:30 p.m. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Saturday 9 Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- of enrichment classes begin this week for el- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. ementary students during the January–Febru- standing it is no simple matter. Study the Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., ary session. Classes run 4:20–5:20 p.m. and are text in the original, together with the classical followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. and open to both JCC members and non-members. commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Sanctuary Service at 10 a.m. Saturday 16 Snack and supervision in the JCC’s afterschool st th Kehillat Shabbat: BIC. For 1 through 5 graders. programs before each class are included for all 11 a.m. Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 Wednesday 20 class participants. Registration due by January a.m., followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 Tot Shabbat: BIC. For preschoolers and their 7. Class fees vary. For information or to regis- a.m. and Sanctuary Service at 10 a.m. families. 11:15 a.m. ter, call Deborah Huerta at deborahhuerta@ Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Opera “Live:” TBE Renaissance Group. See the jccfed.org of phone 971-0990. Drinks and dessert provided. Noon. Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Meditation: TBE. 7:30 p.m. opera Der Rosenkavalier live at the Met on the Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before big screen at Quality 16 Theater. The Renais- All ages and levels welcome including UM sundown. Every Saturday. Judaism 101: BIC. Prayer. 8 p.m. sance Group is a social group for members and non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Be- Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study ages 55 and up. $17.50/seniors over 62; $22/ anster’s Café, ground floor of UM Michigan group code of law for Shabbat, and study others. For details, call TBE office at 665-4744. League. For information, call 936-2367. Thursday 21 of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Noon. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Bi-monthly men’s Every Saturday. Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Kol Halev Cabaret: TBE. Evening of music by study group. 7:30 p.m. Quiz Night: BIC. Annual quiz night. 7 p.m. ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. members of Kol Halev. 6 p.m. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- standing it is no simple matter. Study the mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before text in the original, together with the classical sundown. Every Saturday. commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday.

34 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 Chanukah is Dec 11-18

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with TraditionaL Jewish FoOds Here are some of our favorite things for holiday feasting or gift-giving with food-loving family and friends.

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36 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 I Calendar

SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- fantasy, power, home and destination through Weekly Shabbat services Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Current ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of the lens of Israel as an eternal idea and also a Events with Heather Dombey, a Jewish perspec- life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. modern nation state. Noon. Shabbat Services: AAOM. Morning service, 9:30 tive on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Homemade Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. a.m. Evening service, 35 minutes before sun- Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Special events and Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at set. Call 662-5805 for information. Mincha/ guest presentations, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Monday 25 761-2765 for information. Ma’ariv with Seudah Shlisheet and Dvar Torah Sidney Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Followed by every week. Torah topics and a bite to eat. Dis- English as a Second Language Daily Classes: Poliner at 971-0990 for name of current book. songs and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. cussions led by Rabbi Rod Glogower and other Discussion and Music: JCC Seniors. Jewish JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on local scholars. Home hospitality available for Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– Sisterhood Shabbat Service: TBE Sisterhood. Family Services Geriatric Social Worker Al- 7:30 p.m. Shabbat meals. UM Hillel. lison Pollock, MSW, will be available for dis- Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. For more information, Friday evening services: See listing at the end of Shabbat Services: BIC. 9:30 a.m.; 6 p.m. Mincha. cussion, questions and assistance at 12:30 p.m. Morning childcare from 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. At 1 p.m., Arie Lipsky, Musical Director of the contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@jfsan- the calendar. Shabbat Services: AA Reconstructionist Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra, returns to narbor.org. Ongoing. Havurah. Discussion-based format with topics the JCC for music and discussion. Adult Learning: TBE. “Bible, Morality, and the 21st Century,” with Dr. Cobi Sacerdoti. Second Saturday 30 changing monthly. For info, email info@aare- Mourning and Mitzvah: TBE. Third session of con.org or call 913-9705 or visit www.aarecon. series with Cantor Annie Rose. 7:30 p.m. of three-part course providing intellectual look and emotional journey into the moral Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., org. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. wisdom of the Bible, where arrogance, pride, followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m Shabbat Services: Chabad. Morning services at Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish jealousyh, love and devotion impact human Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: 9:45 a.m. Afternoon services 45 minutes be- legal system by following the intriguing discus- life. Also February 8. Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- fore sundown. sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a compos- mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before Shabbat Services: Pardes Hannah. Gener- ite of practical law, logical argumentation and sundown. Every Saturday. ally meets the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each moral teachings. Study of the original Talmud Tuesday 26 Tu B’Shevat Kids’ Night Out: JCC Youth. Fea- month. Call 663-4039 for more information. tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. turing games, crafts, dinner and a movie. This 10 a.m. Led by Rabbi Elliot Ginsburg. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise year’s theme is celebrating trees and taking care Shabbat Services: TBE. Torah Study at 8:50 a.m. with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m.; $4/session or of the environment. Partticipants will make Chapel Service at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary Service Friday 22 $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet crafts with recycled materials, plant seeds, and at 10 a.m. Call the office at 665-4744 or con- Lunch, noon; Games and activities including watch Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest. Kids’ sult website at www.templebethemeth.org for Lunch and Learn: TBE. With Rabbi Levy. Dis- mahjong, quilting, art projects and card games, Night Out events are open to JCC members service details. cussion of “Issues of Israel over Time and and weekly Bridge Club, 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. Space,” examining Israel as a hope, dream, and non-members in grades K-5. $20/mem- Home Hospitality for Shabbat and Holiday Men’s Torah Study: TBE. 7:30 p.m. fantasy, power, home and destination through bers ($18/siblings); $25/non-members ($23/ Meals: AAOM. Call 662-5805 in advance. “Walking With God Part II–Medieval Texts siblings). Register by January 28. For informa- the lens of Israel as an eternal idea and also a Home Hospitality and Meals: Chabad. Every Through Modernity:” BIC. Presented by tion, contact Deborah Huerta at deborahhuer- modern nation state. Noon. Shabbat and yom tov (Jewish holiday). Call Rabbi Kim Blumenthal. 8 p.m. [email protected] or phone 971-0990. Meditation: TBE. 1 p.m. 995-3276 in advance. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Tot Shabbat and Dinner: TBE. Followed by Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- group code of law for Shabbat, and study of songs and popsicles. 5:30–7 p.m. Phone numbers and addresses standing it is no simple matter. Study the Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every Kabbalat Services: BIC. Followed by a presentation text in the original, together with the classical Saturday. frequently listed in the calendar: by Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje. 7:30 p.m. commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Shabbat Learner’s Service: TBE. Honoring new Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan (AAOM) members. Rabbi Levy explains the choreogra- 1429 Hill Street 994-5822 phy and meaning of Shabbat prayers. 7:30 p.m. Wednesday 27 Sunday 31 Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah (AARH) Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. P.O. Box 7451, Ann Arbor 913-9705 Judaism 101: BIC. Prayer. 8 p.m. Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Beth Israel Congregation (BIC) Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the 2000 Washtenaw Ave. 665-9897 Saturday 23 prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah Thursday 28 reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at Chabad House Torah Study: TBE. Led by Rabbi Levy at 8:50 a.m., Chabad House. Every Sunday. 715 Hill Street 995-3276 followed by Morning Minyan at 9:30 a.m. Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into EMU Hillel Tot Shabbat: BIC. For preschoolers and their ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. the basic text of Chassidism and open your 965 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti 482-0456 families. 11:15 a.m. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at Jewish Community Center (JCC) Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Chabad House. Every Sunday. 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 971-0990 Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- Basic Judaism: TBE. With Rabbi Lisa Delson. ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; Jewish Cultural Society (JCS) mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before 7:45 p.m. 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 975-9872 sundown. Every Saturday. $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Special events and guest presentations, 1 p.m.; Tu B’Shevat Seder: Chabad. Featuring full Seder Jewish Family Services (JFS) Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Literary Group with Sidney Warschausky at dinner of the special foods and drinks of Is- 2245 South State Street 769-0209 group code of law for Shabbat, and study of rael, a study session on the meaning of the day, 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner at 971-0990 for Jewish Federation Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Every and the Jewish perspective on ecology. 8 p.m. name of current book. 2939 Birch Hollow Drive 677-0100 Saturday. Presentation: Frankel Institute. Michael Krav- Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- Shabbat services: See listing at the end of the cal- ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of Pardes Hannah el-Tovi of Hebrew University presents, “Rite 2010 Washtenaw Ave. 761-5324 endar. of Passing: (Ex)change of Identities Between life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Temple Beth Emeth (TBE) the State and the Subject in Contemporary 2309 Packard Road 665-4744 Sunday 24 Orthodox Conversion in Israel.” Room 2022, 202 South Thayer Street. Noon. Weekly Friday night Shabbat services UM Hillel 1429 Hill Street 769-0500 Discussion: JCC Seniors. UM doctoral student Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Shabbat Service: AAOM. Services held at UM Tam Perry will facilitate a presentation and Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the Hillel. 4:45 p.m. Call 994-9258 in advance to discussion on the various ways that the pro- prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah confirm time. reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at cess of moving may affect seniors. 1 p.m. Shabbat Service: BIC. 6 p.m. Chabad House. Every Sunday. Mourning and Mitzvah: TBE. Fourth session of Shabbat Service: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 p.m. Season of Mussar II: BIC. 9:45 a.m. series with Cantor Annie Rose. 7:30 p.m. followed by Shira at 6 p.m.; Shira: Traditional Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Cha- Library Book Club: BIC. 10 a.m. Service at 7:30 p.m. For information, call 665- bad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Shabbat Candlelighting Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into 4744. Jewish legal system by following the intrigu- the basic text of Chassidism and open your ing discussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is Shabbat Service: Ann Arbor Reconstructionist December 4 4:45 p.m. eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at a composite of practical law, logical argumen- Havurah. 6:15 PM at the JCC the last Friday December 11 4:45 p.m. Chabad House. Every Sunday. tation and moral teachings. Study of the origi- each month. Musical Shabbat service followed December 18 4:46 p.m. Award Reception: JFS. “Delightful, Delicious, De- nal Talmud tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. by vegetarian potluck. Tot Shabbat with option- December 25 4:50 p.m. Laxes.” Jewish Family Services presents the Claire Every Thursday. al kid’s pizza dinner at 6:00 PM. All are welcome and Isadore Bernstein Leadership Award to Judie to attend. For information, call 913-9705, email January 1 4:55 p.m. and Jerry Lax. Reception at 3 p.m. at Washtenaw [email protected] or visit www.aarecon.org. January 8 5:02 p.m. Community College. $50/person. For informa- Friday 29 Shabbat Service: Chabad. Begins at candle- January 15 5:09 p.m. tion, phone Robin Little at 769-0209. lighting time. Home hospitality available for Basic Judaism: TBE. With Rabbi Lisa Delson. Lunch and Learn: TBE. With Rabbi Levy. Dis- Shabbat meals and Jewish holidays. Call 995- January 22 5:18 p.m. 7:45 p.m. cussion of “Issues of Israel over Time and 3276 in advance. January 29 5:27 p.m. Space,” examining Israel as a hope, dream, Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 37 Modern Closets Around Town Customized • Practical • Functional • Affordable I We Fit Everything … including your budget! Get organized and save valuable time! • Custom designed to fit everything from jackets to jewelry Going out in the cold • Double your usable closet space David Erik Nelson, staff writer • Easy to rearrange with seasonal changes espite intermittently frightful at 8 p.m., the Mozart Birthday Bash at Hill • Add resale value to your home weather, there are many great op- Auditorium will include Mozart’s incompa- • Locally owned and operated portunities to bundle up, brave rable “Requiem,” as well as “Divertimento • Manufactured in Michigan D the storm, and enjoy an evening of theater, K136” and the demanding “Horn Concerto • Affordable – Free Installation comedy, or music. In West Bloomfield, the No.3.” The following day (Sunday, January Do Yourself a favor – Call us today for a free home estimate – no obligation Jewish Ensemble Theatre (6600 West Ma- 24, 4 p.m.) the A2SO will perform the Mo- ple Rd., (248) 788-2900, www.jettheatre. zart World Tour: Ann Arbor at the Michigan 214-9475 org) will have two new shows opening in Theater as part of their Family Series. Tickets www.modernclosets.com December and January. The Big Bang is a for either performance start as low as $6. For your convenience – day, evening and weekend appointments “spirited and downright goofy“ (Douglas J. Finally, in January and December the Keating, Philadelphia Inquirer) 80-minute University Musical Society will offer sev- musical overview of human history, and will eral notable performances. On Saturday, run from December 8–January 3 (with two December 12, at 8 p.m., UMS will host pia- New Year’s Eve performances). At the end nist Jean-Yves Thibaudet at Hill Auditorium. of January the JET will open it’s production Renowned for his “extraordinary technical of Charles Busch’s The Tale of the Allergist’s facility,” the New York Times has called Thi- Wife, a multiple Tony Award-nominated baudet “an exquisite interpreter of music comedy following the Manhattanite’s mid- by Debussy, Ravel, [and] Satie.” Thibaudet’s life crisis. Saturday program will include two pieces by Closer to home, the Ann Arbor Civic Ravel (“Pavane pour une enfante defunte” Theater (971-0605, www.a2ct.org) offers and “Miroirs”) and Brahms’s “Sonata No. 3 Nine, Arthur Kopit and Mario Fratti’s musi- in f minor, Op. 5.” (the same program Thi- cal adaptation of filmmaker Federico Felli- baudet will perform three days later at Carn- ni’s quasi-autobiographical 1963 film 8 1/2, egie Hall). At the end of January the Chicago from January 14–17. Symphony Orchestra returns to Hill Audito- Meanwhile, alongside their ever-excellent rium for its 201st Ann Arbor performance selection of new and classic films (including with the music of Bartók’s one-act opera, the January 28 Sundance Film Festival USA, Bluebeard’s Castle (on Wednesday, January a one-night nationwide extension of the 27, at 8 p.m.). Sundance Film Festival), the Michigan The- In contemporary world music, UMS has ater (608 E. Liberty, 668-TIME, michtheater. two excellent shows scheduled for January: org) will have several new live performances. On Friday, January 8, at 8 p.m., singer/song- The first, part of their Not Just For Kids se- writer Souad Massi will perform at the Mich- ries, will be Tales of the Fourth Grade Nothing, igan Theater. A native of Algeria, Massi first adapted from the classic Judy Blume com- distinguished herself with the Algerian poli- SAVE! $75 REBATE THRU 12/31/09 ing-of-age story of the same title (Sunday, rock band Atakor. The band’s inflammatory December 6, at 1:30 p.m.). In January the popularity lead to death threats, and Massi Michigan will host the popular four-woman fled to Paris, where she developed a personal, Add good comedy Menopause The Musical (Tuesday, acoustic style influenced by American coun- January 26 and Wednesday, January 27 at 8 try, roots, and rock traditions, as well as Por- p.m.) tugese fado, and traditional Middle Eastern cheer to your MSU’s Wharton Center (517) 353-1982, melodies and instruments. Her songs often www.whartoncenter.com/) will bring two weave Algerian Arabic, French, English, and holiday look notable stand-up acts in December. On Sun- Berber lyrics over a single melody. At the end day, December 13, Jeff Foxworthy (who, in- of the month, on Sunday, January 31, at 4 TM cidentally, has authored 11 best-sellers and p.m., Ladysmith Black Mambazo will make with Dysport. been nominated for three Grammies) will their UMS debut at Hill Auditorium. The perform the MSU Auditorium at 7 p.m. group—first popularized by their support- Four days later, Jerry Seinfeld will grace the ing vocals on Paul Simon’s Grammy award- WORKS LIKE BOTOX,® BUT Cobb Great Hall (Thursday, December 17 at winning 1986 album Graceland—continues 7 p.m.). Little-seen on screen since the final to powerfully blend traditional South Afri- WITH A DISTINCT ADVANTAGE episode of Seinfeld, the actor and comedian can rhythms, American gospel, and isica- has spent the last several years back on stage; thamiya, the folk a cappella music of South as he told Jess Cagle of Time magazine: “To African mine workers. actually do your creative thing right in front UMS shows aren’t limited to the purely of an audience and have them judge it right musical. In late January UMS will offer a there—that’s exciting.” new production by the Bill T. Jones/Arnie January and December likewise offer Zane Dance Company (at the Power Center music for any palate. At the end of January, on Friday, January 22, Saturday, January 23, Ring in a fresh, glowing look for the holidays with Dysport,TM the Tecumseh Center for the Arts (400 N. 8 p.m.; youth performance on January 22, 4 the new muscle relaxant that works like Botox® to relax fore- Maumee, Tecumseh,; 517.423.6617; www. p.m.) Jones’s new production, Fondly Do We thetca.org) will host an evening with the Hope… Fervently Do We Pray, explores the head frown lines. You’ll enjoy very attractive savings through Monkees’ dreamy front-man Davy Jones life and evolving impact of Abraham Lin- 12/31, so schedule your appointment with our certified DysportTM (Saturday, January 30, 7:30 p.m.) Invari- coln, as well as speculating on what might provider, Shari Martuscelli, RN, or one of our physicians today! ably numbered among the top-ten teen idols have followed had Lincoln survived to com- of all time, Jones and his seven-piece band plete post-Civil War Reconstruction. Call for your appointment: 734 712-2323 continue to impress audiences. The TCA has To make your evening out complete, stop made special arrangements to have the Mon- by the Blue Nile (221 E Washington St., 998- Paul Izenberg, MD keemobile on hand for the event, and rumor 4746) for family-style Ethiopian cuisine be- has it that ever-affable Jones will be available fore or after your show. All weekend diners David Hing, MD to chat and sign autographs after the show. with a University Musical Society or Perfor- Richard Beil, MD The Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra mance Network ticket in hand receive a 20 CENTER FOR PLASTIC & Daniel Sherick, MD (994-4801, www.a2so.com), under the baton percent discount (not including alcohol). n RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY Ian Lytle, MD of Arie Lipsky, will perform two shows cele- brating Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s birthday Reichert Health Area, Aesthetic Suite 5008, Ann Arbor www.cprs-aa.com (January 27, 1756). On Saturday, January 23,

38 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 I Vitals

Mazel Tov Emilie Weisberg on her bat mitzvah, December 6. AMER’SDELICATESSEN Scott Lieberman on his bar mitzvah, December 6. Proudly serving Southeast Michigan and Ann Arbor since 1988 Benjamin Shapiro on his bar mitzvah, December 6. Tuval Vaknin on his bar mitzvah, December 20. Now featuring our Sandwich of the Month, David Hankin in his bar mitzvah, January 31. the Pesto Luck, #42 on our menu! Mark and Sharon Weiner on the birth of their twins, Shayna and Aaron Moses, on September 22. Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes and Basil Pesto made Chuck and Sharon Newman's son and Dorothy Newman's grandson, Michael Newman, on in-house from fresh basil leaves, olive oil, pinenuts, his marriage to Patricia Cavuoto, on November 7. fresh garlic and parmesan, served between hand-sliced Jason and Rachel Robinson on the birth of their son, Benjamin Jacob Robinson, also and grilled, seedless Jewish Rye grandson of Carol and Joseph Brown. Gilla and Ami Wiesel on the birth of their daughter Ayelet. Daily Soup choices made in our kitchens, served with Condolences bread, only $2.59 Jodi Wallo on the death of her great uncle, David Vanek, October 10. Over 80 sandwiches featuring premium meats from Lolita Fisher on the death of her husband, Robert, October 14. freshly cooked Sy Ginsberg Corned Beef or Pastrami to Lisa Ensfield on the death of her aunt, Hinda Burchman, October 23. White Albacore Tuna Salad or our homemade Falafel Steven Russman and sons Daniel and David, on the death of their wife and mother, Rochelle Kostant, November 8. Arthur Riba on the death of his brother, Leonard Riba. A daily selection of over 30 green, pasta & potato salads, hummus & tabouli all proudly made from scratch in our kitchens A wide variety of homemade tortes and cheesecakes I Advertisers such as our famous Intense Chocolate Mousse or our Afternoon Delight ...... 2 Jewish Cultural Society ...... 18 seasonal Pumpkin Cheesecake Amadeus Cafe/Patisserie ...... 31 Jewish Family Services ...... 16 Amer’s & YogurtRush ...... 39 Joe Cornell Entertainment ...... 33 We ‘ll deliver your dinner or cater your lunch! Ann Arbor Educational Foundation ...20 Josephson & Fink ...... 18 Ann Arbor Symphony ...... 33 Ken Lussenden ...... 3 Kenville Studios ...... 33 The Ark ...... 22, 25 Catering Delivery Michigan Union Ayse’s Café ...... 25 Lewis Jewelers ...... 5 Bank of Ann Arbor ...... 33 Mediterrano/Carlyle ...... 2 (734) 761-6000 (734) 769-1210 (734) 668-6770 Bivouac ...... 30 Modern Closets ...... 38 312 S. State St. 611 Church St. 1st Floor Blue Nile Restaurant ...... 36 Modern Mechanical ...... 30 Center for Plastic and Paper Station ...... 4 Reconstructive Surgery ...... 38 People’s Food Co-op ...... 36 Chelsea Flower Shop ...... 25 Polo Fields Golf Craig Claunch ...... 38 & Country Club ...... 21 Dennis Platte Graphic Design ...... 31 Probility Physical Therapies ...... 23 Fawzi’s Westgate Auto Repair ...... 35 Christopher Sevick, PLC ...... 30 Frankel Center ...... 22 Simply Scrumptious...... 36 Introducing Ann Arbor’s newest yogurt bar-- Georgetown Gifts ...... 31 Studio K40 ...... 25 an experience unmatched anywhere in Michigan. Gold Bond Cleaners ...... 4 Summers-Knoll School ...... 16 Cantor Samuel Greenbaum; mohel ....30 Temple Beth Emeth ...... 5,18 Self serve tart yogurt made to order by you! Haifa Falafel ...... 23 Trusted Loving Care ...... 5 Hiller’s Market ...... 29 University Musical Society ...... 15 6 unique avors, over 40 diverse toppings including fresh & iSoldIt ...... 4 Village Apothecary ...... 31 dried fruits, candies, cereals, nuts, sprinkles and our home- JET: Jewish Ensemble Theatre ...... 36 Woman Safe Health ...... 23 made mochi! Jewish Community Center ...... 40 Zingerman’s ...... 35 Just grab a cup. Fill it with yogurt. Top with fruit. Or top with candy. Mix it up. Make a meal. Make a dessert. Make it your Yiddish, continued from page 13 way. The choice is yours. increasing [in use] have to do with religious to choose modern Hebrew names such as Ezra, life.” Thus, the phenomenon one survey re- Ari, Talia or Eliana, often substituting them spondent reported: “When I was growing up, I for the equivalent Yiddish names of deceased called it temple. When my children went to day relatives (so, for example, they might name a 49¢/oz. school, I called it synagogue. I now call it shul. I daughter Tova, meaning “good” in Hebrew, af- am not sure why.” ter a grandmother named Gittel). 22 cal / oz. Vanilla ∞ 29 cal. / oz. Tart ∞ Fat Free Though Jews across the religious spectrum For the most part, only fervently Orthodox Gluten Free ∞ Kosher Certied ∞ Active Yogurt Cultures said they would be likely to consider Hebrew Jews said they would consider giving a child a names for their children, baby names are “an Yiddish name like Moyshe, Mendy or Basya. 312 S. State St. 611 Church St. important resource for Jews to indicate intra- In one of the survey’s least surprising findings, Jewish differences.” Less observant Jews, they only two percent of Jews said they’d consider Ann Arbor Ann Arbor found, are most likely to prefer anglicized bibli- naming their baby Christopher. (734) 761-6000 (734) 769-1210 cal names such as Jacob, Ethan, Hannah or Abi- (Reprinted from Tabletmag.com, a new gail. Modern Orthodox Jews were most likely read on Jewish life.) n amersdeli.com ∞ yogurtrush.com

Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010 39 Join us for a summer of fun and excitement! Early bird registration begins in January.

THE JCC’S OUTDOOR DAY CAMP FOR CHILDREN ENTERING GRADES K-8 June 21 - August 20, 2010

• Beautiful, natural setting and private beach at Independence Lake • Exciting and unique programs geared for grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 • Flexible scheduling with nine one-week sessions and am/pm care

Visit www.CampRaanana.com or contact Deborah at [email protected] or 734-971-0990 to find out more!

40 Washtenaw Jewish News A December 2009/January 2010