Jewelbilation at LEAST IT's a WET HEAT

See Pages 3, 4 & 5 SeeSee Page XX $1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM VOL. 11 NO. 4 30 TISHREI 5771 jb ,arp OCTOBER 8, 2010

INSIDE EXPLORING THE BEGINNING FROM THE EDITOR 5TJT Yeshiva Guide By Renee Jeret 15 BY LARRY GORDON Skate To Lose Weight Believing In Phyllis J. Lubin 25 Bibi Am I Too Fat? Pam Moritz 37 For now the important thing A Parental Roadmap is to get past Barack Obama and Chassia Boczko, Psy.D. 40 company as well as the sway he feels he still maintains over Adam The Fourth events in the Middle East. That R’ Jay Schwartz, LMSW 64 has to be just part of the thinking as Israeli leaders consider an additional two-month conces- sion in the so-called settlement building freeze. Children at the Hollander Early Childhood Center at Yeshiva of South Shore learn all about Hashem’s amazing creation at their annual Bereishis Exploration Fair. See Page 77 Continued on Page 4

THE BEIN HA’ZMANIM THE LAST WORD HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE EXPERIENCE BY RAV ARYEH ZEV The Year In Israel, Part 10 GINZBERG Chicagoland Experience B YTALMID X CHOFETZ CHAIM TORAH CENTER BY LARRY GORDON Chicago enjoying the chag from Richard Joel to lead YU How was your flight back? The month of Tishrei is draw- a different vantage point while into 5T’s. See Page 13 Mostly pleasant, maybe a bit of ing to a close. For most of us, it These observations come to celebrating the engagement of turbulence? That’s good to hear. has been an exhilarating, uplift- you fresh from the land of Rod our son Dovi to Mari Ray, a Well, I’m glad you arrived home ing, inspiring, and yes, even Blagojevich, Barack Obama, and native Chicagoan. The details or safely, and hope you had an exhausting month. We had an Rahm Emanuel. They come to roadmap of how the shidduch enjoyable trip. abundance of meals and days you from a piece of the Midwest came about are a story that will Wait, you weren’t in Israel for off, many hours in shul, time that features rich, vibrant, and be told down the road a bit. For Sukkos? That’s funny—it sure with family and friends, and— diverse Orthodox and other now, this is about spending yom Jewish communities. Continued on Page 22 Continued on Page 10 We just spent the last week in Continued on Page 6 Celebrating Rav Nachman’s Life Jewelbilation AT LEAST IT’S Sharsheret To Celebrate 10th Anniversary At Gala A WET HEAT Mrs. Chana Glenn, a’h. Event See Page 62 B Y ROCHELLE Our Aliyah Chronicle MARUCH MILLER BY SHMUEL KATZ

In the ten years since its Wow! What an amazing cou- inception, Sharsheret has dis- ple of weeks here. The atmos- PhotoByIvanH.Norman tinguished itself as an exempla- phere in Israel over the chagim ry not-for-profit organization. is always so special. Jews from Founded in November 2001 by all over the world come to fes- Rochelle Shoretz, who recog- tively celebrate our land, which Chassidim celebrated the 200th yahrzeit of Rav Nachman of Breslov over Sukkos in Far Rockaway. See Page 82 Continued on Page 12 Continued on Page 20

Community support for Frank Padavan. See Page 26

CANDLE LIGHTING October 8 – 6:07 PM October 15 – 5:56 PM 2 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 3 FROM THE EDITOR Clinton at the behest of his CIA director, FEATURES Continued from Front Cover George Tenet, and Pollard remains lan- guishing in jail. Around The Five Towns 49 What can possibly happen in those So what is Bibi thinking here, and P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 additional 60 days that did not take place what can these next two months accom- 516-984-0079 Classified Ads 72 during the last 17 years of Israeli offers plish if at some point he gets his govern- [email protected] and concessions in the interest of gen- ment to go along with him? For the [email protected] uinely normalizing the lives of everyday immediate future, it is vitally important LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON Daf Yomi Insights people on both sides of this equation so to get beyond the U.S. midterm elec- Publisher/Editor Managing Editor Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow 68 filled with suspicion and hostility? There tions on November 2. If all goes accord- YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON isn’t any need for a further freeze for Jews ing to what the polls and political Sales Managers The Dish in Israel. The foundation of the concept is experts are predicting, Obama will be CHANA ROCHEL ROSS Elke Probkevitz 32 unbalanced and prejudicial. Let’s hope it seriously neutralized, with the remain- Editorial Assistant doesn’t happen. ing two years of his presidency amount- SIDI BARON Insights On The Torah Firstly, no one—not the Arabs and cer- ing to nothing more than occasionally YAKOV SERLE tainly not Prime Minister Netanyahu— nice teleprompter-induced phraseology Sales Representatives R’ Yanki Tauber 76 wants to be blamed as the cause of the and lots of bluster. SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC R’ Ben Tzion Shafier 43 breakdown in the direct talks between The president will have to turn his Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor the parties. If the Obama company— efforts inward and focus on trying to CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Letters To The Editor 26 which includes Secretary of State Hillary save himself and a second term in the Hannah Reich Berman, Anessa V. Cohen, Clinton and special ambassador to the White House. I believe that unlike other Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg, Yoni Glatt, region former senator George Mitchell— presidents in recent history, who felt Toby Klein Greenwald, Rabbi Yair Hoffman, Luach 12 fail in this latest effort to jumpstart peace that their only foreign-policy success Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, Shmuel Katz, talks, they will have no other option but would come at the expense of the State Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann, Rochelle Miller, MindBiz Elke Probkevitz, Rachael Schindler, to turn full throttle to the blame game. of Israel, he will very possibly just walk Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, Rabbi Avi Shafran, Esther Mann, LCSW 33 That customarily means that fingers will away from the whole mess and expend Rabbi Ben Tzion Shaﬁer, Rabbi Meir Orlian, have to be pointed at the Israelis for not his efforts elsewhere. Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher, Samuel Sokol Mother’s Musings being flexible enough. This idea of Egypt’s ailing President DOV GORDON, ELISHEVA ELEFANT Phyllis J. Lubin 25 Bibi’s approach so far has been good, Mubarak threatening that if these current Staff Graphic Artists fair, and tough. Though he features flash- peace talks fail the region can erupt in IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS Puzzle es of weakness, he has so far outshone all violence is not helpful. What that type of Staff Photographers his predecessors involved in similar rhetoric shows more than anything else FRANKEL & CO. Yoni Glatt 48 types of talks over the years. I don’t think is that the parties involved in the current Design & Production that we are seeing the same Netanyahu process may just not be ready for genuine TALIYE CORLEY Real Estate who agreed to sign over 80 percent of peace despite the fact that all this time Art Director Anessa V. Cohen 42 Hebron to Yasser Arafat at the Wye has elapsed. Plantation meetings in 1998. You may Even more frightening as well as The Five Towns Jewish Times is an independent weekly news- paper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not That’s The Way It Is! recall the then prime minister secured an unconstructive are the ideas articulated necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not agreement from President Clinton to earlier this week by former president Bill responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or Hannah Reich Berman 30 release Jonathan Pollard from prison. Clinton in a meeting with Mubarak in establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times. Bibi was ultimately double-crossed by Egypt. Clinton said that the lack of a con-

4 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES crete peace agreement between Israel diplomat Abba Eban was known to their agenda. ed that despite the many years and and the Palestinians provides the impe- have said, it was the Palestinians who Israeli leaders have a country to run extensive efforts dedicated to achieving tus for about half of all the terrorism in demonstrated this uncanny ability to and a population of seven million people peace, they have not managed to move the world. Not only is this a theory that “never miss an opportunity to miss an with myriad needs and requirements. past the idea of utilizing the process to has been proven baseless, but the senti- opportunity.” The country’s every moment cannot be hurt the image of Israel and delegitimize ment is essentially that the Jews alone are For now, Bibi is playing it very deliber- dedicated exclusively to being featured as the Jewish State’s existence. If it takes to blame for the great scourge of terror ate and smart. There was much made in intransigent and obstacles to peace on more time to move them past this ridicu- that has been inflicted on our world. the news the other day about how the CNN and the BBC. Israel has to take a lous and counterproductive notion, then It is unlikely that Mr. Clinton wanted prime minister was going to convene his break sometimes, step out of the news so be it. to intentionally or specifically assign inner cabinet of seven key ministers in and the limelight, and just do what other Someday new leadership will arise on blame to the Jewish people for so much his government and arrive at a decision countries are allowed to do—that is, the Palestinian side that wants more than of the terror in the world, but simply stat- on extending the building freeze in the serve their people. anything else to live in peace and bring ed, that is what he said. Are these the feel- territories for two months. The group did For now, the most important thing to vastly improved living conditions to their ings of his wife as well, the Secretary of people. For now there is no rush, so long State? Does President Obama share this as Bibi continues to stay strong and play opinion as well? To many it sounds like it smart. O the slightly veiled message they are itch- The slightly veiled message they are ing to communicate is that without the Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at Jews around, the world would be a much [email protected]. safer and better place for all. That kind of itching to communicate is that talk can conjure up some very harsh images from our not-too-distant history. In the former president’s defense, it is without the Jews, the world would entirely possible that Clinton arrived at Submit your this type of conclusion because of the be a much safer and better place. fashion in which he was misled by the Israelis when he presided over the Camp Five Towns Events/ David negotiations at the conclusion of his presidency in 2000. At the time, the News for the Israelis, led by then prime minister Ehud convene and apparently discussed a num- accomplish is to maneuver the process Barak, made deceptive and insincere ber of issues, but it was widely reported forward and escape the clutches of this Next Issue by statements about creating a Palestinian that the idea of a further building freeze notion that talks between the parties can- state and dividing Jerusalem. To Clinton was not on the agenda. not proceed unless Jews halt building and others at the time, it seemed that the Sometimes the most important step to homes for their families. This will hap- 5:00 P.M. Monday. Israelis were indeed conceding that they be taken or move to be made is absolute- pen as times passes, Election Day arrives, were the cause of all the problems and ly nothing at all. By not raising the issue and construction throughout the territo- Send e-mail to: that they were ready to acknowledge that at this last meeting on Monday night, ries continues apace without much fan- on the world stage. Netanyahu was sending a brilliant mes- fare or publicity. [email protected] Arafat and his terror-bent entourage sage to the world that inhibiting normal The Arab parties involved in the peace could not even pretend to rise to the life for Jews—despite the pressures—is process—and that includes Egypt and occasion. Once again, as the late Israeli not a realistic or even serious item for Jordan—have displayed and demonstrat-

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 5 BAGEL STORE Obama letting someone go with a reputa- tially dangerous to the security of Israel. here in New York the next day. As a kid, I Continued from Front Cover tion so tough and relentless is the first No one back home in Chicago’s always knew that if the Cubs were rained sign that he is consenting to the idea that Jewish community really appreciated out, the Mets or Yankees (whichever was tov feeling very much at home in a land maybe the presidency is not working out that. It just may very well be a political playing in new York) would be rained out where we are otherwise strangers. so well. Sending Rahm back home to litmus test for Mr. Emanuel whether he the next day. I’m still aware of that gener- And perhaps that more than anything Chicago just may be the first indication can become a frontrunner and ultimate- al rule, but I just don’t publicize it (too else is what struck me as particularly that Obama needs a friend back home to ly succeed in his ambition to become much, that is). odd. The shuls and even the other people set things up for the inevitable near-term mayor of Chicago. I’ve maintained for many years that, we passed on the streets going to and reality. I’m not saying that Obama is giv- While we are on the subject of changing unlike other populations and areas of the from shul look like anyone we may come ing up, and this idea may only be wishful political winds, let me give you a Chicago world, when it comes to frum communi- across or encounter at home, except for theorizing on my part. weather report. For the first time in a very ties, regardless of where they are located, the fact that as I look around I barely rec- It does not seem that there is much long time, we enjoyed outstanding sum- they are essentially one large yet con- ognize a soul. It’s probably that experi- love lost between the Jewish community merlike autumnal weather throughout the tained community. And this theory in ence which occurs in contravention to in Chicago and Mr. Emanuel, precisely Sukkos yom tov in Chicago. At least for us particular is brought home when you go what we are accustomed to when spend- to shul on Shabbos or yom tov in a place ing a holiday like this in Israel, Florida, like Chicago. You obviously stand out the Catskills, or elsewhere. The Midwest somewhat, because not only does hardly is not a vacation resort experience; anyone recognize you, but as I stated pre- rather, it’s home very obviously to those It seemed that everyone that we viously, as you look around you are grad- who live there while usually an exten- ually and stunningly made aware that sion of home in some sense to those encountered there in the course of you don’t know anyone either. who are visiting. And here’s another thing that’s differ- The other big news in town over the ent about Chicago: I’m not aware that chag, aside from Mari and Dovi, was that the week felt compelled to explain anyone visits the city just to get away, Rahm Emanuel, a nemesis of the State of so to speak. It seemed that everyone Israel, resigned from his position as that we encountered there in the President Obama’s Chief of Staff—osten- what he or she was doing there. course of the week felt compelled to sibly to run for mayor of Chicago to explain what he or she was doing there. replace the current mayor, Richard Daley, Most of the people we encountered who has served in that position for the were there because they had children last 21 years. As best as I could ascertain because he was once a popular congress- that was unusual, as most if not all of our or siblings living there, and so on. from some casual political conversations man from Illinois before assuming a posi- jaunts over to Chicago over the last decade Anyway, we had spectacular weather with locals, the significant and influential tion with the Obama administration. dealt with the frequent issue of snow and throughout chol ha’moed, in contrast to Orthodox Jewish community in Chicago While in Congress, Rahm Emanuel, who ice. The weather seems to be a vital factor what I understand was going on here in cannot be counted as members of the has deep roots and family in Israel, was and part of everyday life out there for a New York, where there was somewhat of Emanuel fan club. known as one of the most outstanding good part of the year. Some say that it is a deluge. And that’s another thing about In a sense, Emanuel, though closely pro-Israel representatives in Congress. It changeable without warning, just like the Chicago as well as other Jewish commu- identified with the Chicago Jewish com- was only when he moved to the White local politics. nities around the world. I don’t want to munity, has been outed as little more House and became Obama’s political cad- I’ve always looked at the weather in step out on a literary ledge and say that than a political opportunist. From my die that he seemed to have no problem Chicago as a foretaste or advance warn- New York perch, I would submit that attempting to execute a U.S. policy poten- ing of what we were going to experience Continued on Page 8

6 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 7 BAGEL STORE extent, through our children. Very prelim- Continued from Page 6 inarily, these are some of the things that I have discovered in the last few days. One they revolve around or live in the shad- is that the Ray family includes amongst ow of New York, but there is definitely a its cousins our colleague and good friend Big Apple consciousness that seems to Shmuel Katz, formerly of the Five Towns always be present. and Chicago who now resides with his It’s as though New York has this large family in Bet Shemesh. Jewish magnet with an overpowering Also, our 5TJT client and friend Marcel pull that dramatically impacts on other Weisman is attached to the family by Jewish communities. I’m willing to enter- virtue of the fact that one of his sons is tain the possibility that it is not that married to the kallah’s sister. And then way—you can argue and debate that it’s just the other night I saw Michael not, and it can be a good and healthy dis- Zuckerman at the nightly daf yomi shiur cussion, but it’s unlikely that it is going to in the Agudah shul of Far Rockaway and change anything. discovered that his mother’s maiden In any event, we are now two of those name is Ray. Michael said that he hoped people with a good reason to visit and that I would mention that in the paper, be found in Chicago—even in the dead so here you are. of those winter ice storms. One of the And I also had the opportunity to see extra added attractions of family expan- my first cousins Icky and Zeesy Posner, sion and growth is the fashion in which who are longtime shluchim of Chabad the old Jewish geography game plays in Skokie and who have had a great itself out these days, Two young people impact on the greater Chicago commu- meet, and people’s worlds readjust and nity over the many years they’ve been begin to merge. out there. And of course, my brother-in- Once your children begin to date law and sister-in-law, Josh and Shira and marry, life starts to resemble a Nudell, and their children who hosted large Scrabble board, in my estimation. us over yom tov were very gracious and There are many challenges presented accommodating. in the game beyond just demonstrat- So that’s a small taste of our just ing an ability to deftly spell words that concluded holiday Chicago experi- neatly fit into the allotted positions. ence. We’re looking forward to more One of the most satisfying accomplish- in the weeks and months ahead as the ments, aside from winning the game, family expands and with G-d’s help is helping yourself as well as the other we, along with Sari and Alan Ray, walk players by opening the board, thereby our children to the chuppah in the creating possibilities for new word near future. O construction. And a not dissimilar thing happens Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at sometimes when families merge, to an [email protected].

8 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 9

The Last Word it will only be a matter of time until I will Continued from Front Cover no longer be able to speak. And so with all due respect, I would love to make something we rarely think about—an small talk with you, but since I may lose abundance of words. my ability to speak at any moment, I Has anyone thought about the number would prefer that my last words spoken of words spoken over the last few weeks? in the world be words of Torah.” From Selichos to the davening of the Yamim Noraim; from Hallel to the Hoshanos; from the reading of Mishneh Torah to the songs of the Hakafos—so “Rabbi, I am about many words. If I would challenge the readers to offer what the most important “words” that he or she said over the last to speak my last few weeks are, I’m sure the responses would vary greatly. For some it would be words in this world. the closing words of Neilah, for some the words of the heartfelt tefillah of What should those Unesaneh Tokeph, and yet for others it may be the words of Hallel. words be?” For me, the most inspiring word that I experienced this past yom tov season was not one that I read in a machzor, but rather one that I heard expressed from a Those words, heard from this dear dear friend who fully understands that friend only days before yom tov, had a his next word may very well be his last. greater impact upon me than all the Just days prior to yom tov,I went to words I spoke throughout the entire visit an ailing friend who suffers from a month of Tishrei. Do any of us ever think debilitating disease. His body has been that our next word may be our last? Do slowly shutting down, limiting his ability we ever think about what we would want to move his limbs freely, and he is con- our last words to be? fined to a bed. When I visited him, I tried In a wonderful book written by Rav to engage him in a conversation, as Emanuel Feldman, the founding rabbi of painful as it was to see him in such a Congregation Beth Jacob of Atlanta, debilitated state. Georgia, the author shares his most After a few minutes of light conversa- poignant memories of half a century as tion, he asked me to share with him what one of America’s leading pulpit rabbis. He I would be saying in shul on Shabbos writes about one of the most moving Shuvah . He then said the following: events in his illustrious career, when a “Rabbi, as you can see, I am losing all abil- middle-aged woman stricken with a terri- ity to control my body, and I was told that ble illness was given only one chance for

10 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES survival. She would have to undergo Amoraim that if you put your ear to the extensive surgery to remove her vocal ground and listen carefully, you can hear cords, and while her chance for survival on every rosh chodesh the words “Moshe would be greatly increased, she would emes v’soraso emes” repeated again and never be able to speak again. again. This place in the desert, Chazal tell On the day of the surgery, the family us, was the very spot where the ground called Rabbi Feldman and said that this opened up and swallowed Korach and his woman wanted to speak with him. He followers as a result of their rebellion went to the hospital to visit with her and against Moshe. found her in the hospital room, which Rabbi Weberman commented, “If only was filled with her loving family. After Korach had uttered as his last words receiving all their good wishes, she asked ‘Moshe emes v’soraso emes,’ his entire des- everyone to step outside, as she wanted tiny would have been different. Because to speak to Rabbi Feldman privately. he did not do so, he has spent the last few As soon as they left, she began to cry thousand years having to proclaim these and said, “Rabbi, I am about to speak my very same words every rosh chodesh.” last words in this world. What should The message of the importance of a those words be?” And then together with person’s last words and the timing of Rabbi Feldman, she recited, slowly, delib- those words is clear. This thought is very erately, and with great emotion, the appropriate for Neilah, the moment of pasuk of Shema Yisrael Hashem Elokeinu our “last words” of the Yamim Noraim Hashem Echad; and with that, she was tefillah experience. taken into the operating room. The great Chassidic Rebbe Reb Bunim Rabbi Feldman relates that after he of Peshischa used to explain that the returned to his car in the hospital parking name of the month Mar-Cheshvan is lot, he broke down and cried. He thought, related to the word rachash, stirring or here this simple woman’s last words that movement. The Gemara (Megillah 27b) she will ever utter in this world are teaches us that even after a person has Shema Yisrael; if only we can know what finished davening,“rachushei mer- our last words in this world will be. achshan sifvvaseih,” his lips are still mov- And so in this inspiring month of ing with the aftereffects of tefillah. As we words, of so many words, the thing that enter the month of Mar-Cheshvan, we are inspired me most was the realization of still enveloped by the aftereffects of the frailty of life and the great signifi- Tishrei, and our lips are still murmuring cance of the last word. the tefillos of the Yamim Noraim. This year before Neilah,I shared briefly And so for some, the words of Hallel, with my friends in shul a thought that I Hoshanos, Kol Nidrei, or Neilah are still heard from my dear friend Rabbi Yechiel reverberating in their hearts and in their Weberman from Far Rockaway. Chazal souls. For me this year, it’s the message of write about a special place in the desert, the “last word” that hopefully will remain where an Arab showed one of the with me throughout the year. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 11 Jewelbilation Continued from Front Cover nized the need for an organization addressing the needs of young Jewish women living with or facing breast cancer, Sharsheret has responded to more than 19,000 breast cancer inquiries, involved over 1,000 peer supporters, and presented over 200 educational programs nationwide. Team Sharsheret Rochelle was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was only 28 years old. At zation and is well respected in the Common concerns include the genetic nosis and experiences. that time, there was no existing organiza- Jewish and cancer communities,” Elana risk of developing breast cancer in Education Outreach Programs. tion or support group addressing the Silber, the organization’s director of Jewish women of Ashkenazi descent, Community outreach events are held in needs of those who are concerned about operations, told the Five Times Jewish pregnancy after diagnosis, parenting, private homes. Health care symposia the risks of breast cancer in their family, Times. “By the time women diagnosed relationships and intimacy, the role of addressing the concerns of Jewish those who have been diagnosed with the with breast cancer are prepared to reach religion in daily life with cancer, and the women facing breast cancer are also disease and are undergoing treatment, out for support, many already have a impact of breast cancer on religious rit- planned. Featured subjects at recent and those who face issues of survivorship medical team in place.” uals and spirituality.” events included breast cancer and fertili- or recurrence. Rochelle was introduced to “Sharsheret has grown significantly Ever responsive to the needs of the ty, parenting during breast cancer, breast another woman like her who became over the past ten years,” Elana adds. women the organization services, cancer genetics, and survivorship. Rochelle’s Link. “One in 40 Jewish individuals of Sharsheret offers the following programs Quality of Life Programs. Includes the Seeking to fill a void in the communi- Ashkenazi descent carries a BRCA and services: Busy Box for parents facing breast can- ty, Rochelle founded Sharsheret, literally (breast cancer) gene mutation—as com- The Link Program.A peer support net- cer; Best Face Forward (a program to changing the face of breast cancer in the pared to one in 345 in the general popu- work connecting women newly diag- address the cosmetic side effects of Jewish community. “Sharsheret has lation. Sharsheret now offers a continu- nosed or at high risk of developing breast become the Jewish breast cancer organi- um of care for the Jewish community. cancer with others who share their diag- Continued on Page 14 CALENDAR LUACH October 8-October 16 ZIP Code: 11516

30 Tishrei Friday, October 8 1st day Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan Daf yomi: Avodah Zarah 55 Earliest tallis/teﬁllin: 6:05 am Sunrise: 6:59 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 9:14 am Gr’a 9:50 am P’lag ha’minchah: 5:14 pm Candle Lighting: 6:07 pm 1 Cheshvan – Shabbos Saturday, October 9 Shabbos Parashas Noach 2nd day Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan Shabbos ends**: 7:05 pm 72 min. 7:37 pm 7 Cheshvan Friday, October 15 Daf yomi: Avodah Zarah 62 Earliest tallis/teﬁllin: 6:12 am Sunrise: 7:06 am Latest Shema: M. Av. 9:17 am Gr’a 9:53 am P’lag ha’minchah: 5:05 pm Candle Lighting: 5:56 pm 8 Cheshvan – Shabbos Saturday, October 16 Shabbos Parashas Lech-Lecha Shabbos ends**: 6:56 pm 72 min. 7:27 pm * All times from MyZmanim.com ** add a few minutes for tosefos Shabbos according to your minhag Municipal Calendar For 5 Towns and NYC Monday, October 11 Columbus Day. Local post offices closed. No garbage collection. Public schools closed. Transit: weekday schedule. NYC alternate-side parking regula- tions suspended. 12 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 13 Jewelbilation Anniversary Gala,” Elana Silber explained. Continued from Page 12 “It encompasses the themes of the gala. Sharsheret’s Jewel Program offers family treatment), and Embrace (for women liv- and friends meaningful opportunities to ing with advanced breast cancer. recognize loved ones and support designed to raise awareness about issues Sharsheret’s critical services.” many Jewish women face in their battle This very special event will be held at a against this insidious disease). Booklets private venue in New York City. “We are in the series include “Facing Breast grateful to mark ten years of service to Cancer as a Jewish Woman,” “Facing the Jewish community and celebrate Breast Cancer as an Orthodox Jewish with those who have enabled Woman,” and “Breast Cancer Genetics Sharsheret’s incredible growth,” said and the Jewish Woman.” founder and executive director Rochelle Health and resource information. Shoretz. Featured at this milestone event Sharsheret provides information about will be “Sharsheret, Changing the Face of breast health, the genetic risks of breast Breast Cancer,” a photo exhibit by and ovarian cancer for Jewish women, acclaimed photographer Gail Hadani, live and about a wide range of topics for music and dancing with The Kootz Band, women facing breast cancer and their and a performance by singer-songwriter families, available in print and on the Elana Silber Rochelle Shoretz and cancer survivor Zacharia. Sharsheret website. “It’s exciting to think about where Linking young women from all Jewish mikveh post-surgery or during chemother- Sharsheret deeply respects the privacy Sharsheret will be ten years from now,” backgrounds in their fight against breast apy. Given Sharsheret’s focus, the needs of of its callers and Links. They are sensitive Rochelle says. “We’ve grown in the wake cancer, Sharsheret focuses on the “young” individuals other than young Jewish to the needs of those who phone in for of a difficult economy and our strategic segment of the community. I asked Elana women may be better served by other support or try to offer their support and plan is ambitious. Ten years ago, when I to elaborate upon how old young is. “The cancer support organizations, such as the they are committed to accommodating was diagnosed with breast cancer for the Link program targets women who are ones listed on the Resources page of the requests for confidentiality. For those first time, there was a void in the Jewish generally pre-menopausal,” she explained. Sharsheret website. Nonetheless, those who are uncomfortable receiving community. Sharsheret launched ten “Callers share the common concerns of individuals are welcome to call Sharsheret’s envelopes in the mail, national programs, we have more than younger women with, or facing the risk Sharsheret and participate in relevant pro- Sharsheret will arrange to ship materials 1,000 peer supporters, and presented over of, breast cancer.” Sharsheret welcomes grams that interest them. in plain white envelopes. They will also 200 educational programs nationwide. Links of any age, as long as they were diag- Upon request, Sharsheret will send an work with those who feel uncomfortable With Sharsheret’s success over the last nosed as younger women. information packet introducing the sharing their names. ten years, no Jewish woman or family has We also discussed Sharsheret’s focus organization to family and friends. E- Truly an extraordinary organization that to face breast cancer alone.” on the needs of young Jewish women. mail [email protected] or call toll free is devoted to the greater good, Sharsheret For seat reservations to Jewelbilation, Elana told me about the unique concerns at 866-474-2774 and include your name, will celebrate a decade of excellence in please visit www.sharsheret.org or call of these women and how they are often address, and phone number; the name, supporting young women and families of 866-494-2774. For more information on unmet by other cancer support organiza- address, age and phone number of your all Jewish backgrounds, at a Jewelbilation the Tenth Anniversary Jewelbilation and tions. For example, cancer and its treat- loved one; and your relationship to the Gala, this Sunday, October 10. establishing a Jewel in honor or in mem- ment may affect Jewish religious or cul- woman who may benefit from “Our founder created the name as it is ory of a loved one, please e-mail tural practice, such as the use of the Sharsheret’s services. a beautiful word to describe our 10th [email protected]. O

14 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The 5TJT Guide To Local Boys’ Yeshiva High Schools

BY RENEE JERET What one school or parent has the ability to provide spe- views as an advantage, another cialty course offerings? Would a When my son was applying school or parent may view as a smaller school provide a more to local yeshiva high schools disadvantage. Would my son be nurturing environment and two years ago, he sent applica- best served by a larger school more personalized attention? tions to three yeshivas. As a (some 300 students for MCS and What follows is a scorecard, result, my husband and I had an DRS compared with fewer than opportunity to attend three 200 boys for the others) which Continued on Page 16 open houses. We were impressed with the abundance of excellent mesivta options in our community. When our son got accepted to each of the three schools, my husband went to speak to the principal at each yeshiva and to personally sit in on several classes. All schools welcomed us with open arms and warm smiles. We were impressed with the tight kesher between teachers and students that extended well beyond graduation. This was uncommon when we were teenagers. Hopefully, this will lead to the development of excellent hus- bands and fathers! When one principal proudly offered to show him the 9A class, my husband asked to view the 12B class, instead. “I want to see the worst I can expect from my son when he graduates from this school.” With a wry, understanding smile, the mechanech acquiesced. In making this important decision, I urge you to be thorough, interview at more than one school, keep an open mind, and do your own research. Do not trust the “word on the street.” Do not say that a particular yeshiva is perfect for your son because your husband or older son is a graduate. Treasure each child and consider only what will be best for his unique needs and future development. You should be communicating with your son prior to November of eighth grade; major decisions should be taken seriously. Most of the principals bemoaned the dramatic decline over the past several years in parental involvement in the decision-making process. Parents (and students) must be informed consumers and educate themselves! 5TJT is here to help. With that in mind, I have compiled a review of the options in the Far Rockaway and Five Towns community. This is a daunting task—never before attempted. Of course there are excellent options in other nearby neighborhoods, but I endeavored to be thorough rather than all-encompassing. I have also maintained objectivi- ty. After concluding this article, I doubt you will be able to guess which yeshiva my son attends. Questionnaires were sent to each school requesting information on the same series of issues. I hope that each school will proudly look at this article as showing their best features. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 15 Guide To Yeshivas about its “individualized programming at 6:00 a.m. Despite the frigid 15 degree in the area. Last year they graduated Continued from Page 15 for every student in both limudei kodesh temperature, the students carried Benzi 69 students. By their own estimate, and limudei chol which runs the gamut from the bus so that he could enjoy the 85% will be attending beis medrash not a report card (See chart, page 18). We from the vocational program to beis view. “The driver will never forget the after graduation—three-quarters in hope this information will be useful to all medrash and AP programs.” exemplary middos and chesed displayed the U.S. and one-quarter in Israel. parents—and give us all great pride in the A member of the administration by the mesivta boys on that trip. This Within three years of graduation, 35% excellent mosdos in the Five Towns and Far will be attending college. Rockaway area. What a kiddush Hashem! If Yeshiva of Far Rockaway/Yeshiva you have a son in seventh grade, you Derech Ayson. 802 Hicksville Road, Far should find this an exceptionally useful Rockaway, admissions office 718-327- resource in making your decision. 7600. Founded in 1969, YFR has a beis Mesivta Chaim Shlomo. 211 Beach 17th “If your son attends DRS, be prepared medrash (80 boys, 22 in kollel) but no Street; Far Rockaway; admissions office affiliated elementary school. Their mis- 718-868-2300, ext 367. Founded in 1995, to invite his 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th sion statement is “to produce talmidei MCS is the Yeshiva Darchei Torah high chachamim and ba’alei midos tovos who, school. It has a beis medrash of 140 stu- no matter whether they stay in avodas dents. Their mission statement is to “pro- grade rebbeim to his wedding.” hakodesh or enter professions, will care duce true b’nei Torah and future leaders in about Klal Yisrael and make a kiddush the Jewish community by providing Hashem wherever they are.” YFR feels innovative and diverse learning opportu- unique based on its warm atmosphere nities which actualize the potential of and vaadim in mussar. every student in both limudei kodesh and recalled meeting a driver from Monsey story is one of many that illustrate the Last year, there were 46 graduates limudei chol. In a nurturing and positive Tours who reminisced about driving a prominent role that kindness and from their 170-student mesivta. Typically, academic environment, our students are busload of MCS boys to Toronto in 2002, humanity play in the lives of MCS stu- 100% attend beis medrash after graduat- imbued with a strong feeling of ahavas when they brought along a wheelchair- dents,” who live by Torah values and ing—60% in Israel and 40% in the U.S. Torah and ahavas Yisrael and are prepared bound mesivta talmid, the late Benzi ethics on an ongoing basis. Within three years of graduating, 75% are with the necessary tools to live a Torah- Minzer, who suffered from muscular With 295 students, MCS is the sec- attending college. im-derech-eretz lifestyle.” MCS brags dystrophy. They stopped at Niagara Falls ond-largest boys yeshiva high school Rabbi Eli Goldgrab indicated that he was particularly proud of last year’s graduating class. The two valedictorians and two salutatorians all excelled in the aleph shiurim. In addition, all four were National Merit Scholarship finalists and also among 67 talmidim who participated in a siyum on Masechta Bava Kama. These boys excelled in their secular studies and are now attending beis medrash (one in YFR and three in Israel). Among the mesaymim was one student who entered YFR in the middle of 9th grade with little formal Jewish education. Mesivta Ateres Yaakov . 131 Washington Avenue, Lawrence, admissions office 516- 374-6465. Founded in 1987, MAY has recently moved into a new building on the Lawrence-Cedarhurst border. They have no affiliated elementary school and have a growing beis medrash and kollel program. MAY is the only school in which qualifying seniors are able to attend Lander College two afternoons per week in the second semester of 12th grade and earn up to six credits. Their mission statement is “to provide an outstanding limudei kodesh education coupled with an excellent general studies program that prepares each child for success in higher education and beyond to a productive career. We partner with parents to produce a well- rounded ben Torah who has a lifelong dedication to Torah, mitzvos, and midos tovos—ready to excel in a challenging world.” Uniquely, each child is encouraged to realize his potential through lifelong close relationships with rabbeim and hanhalah that enable each talmid to express himself and shine. To demonstrate this, Rabbi Yaffe related the following anecdote: “Perhaps one of my most poignant rec- ollections reflects to when tragically, a parent of one of the talmidim was suddenly niftar. The rabbeim were involved immediately to provide support, which was to be expected given the close bonds. What was so moving was the response of the other talmidim. Their friend’s loss was their loss. They were there for their chaver from the outset, during the levayah, throughout the shivah, and, most importantly, afterward. Their classmate was never alone. They 16 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES helped carry their friend’s pain and they s”xc did it naturally, as though it could not have been different. They had internal- ized the sense of family that permeates within our yeshiva and so clearly res- onated when most needed.” Last year there were 41 graduates. Typically, 99% attend beis medrash after graduating, 99% of these in Israel. Within three years of graduation, 85% are attending college. Davis Renov Stahler Yeshiva High School for Boys of the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach. 700 Ibsen Street, Woodmere, admissions office 516-295- 7700, ext. 0. Founded in 1997, DRS is part of the HALB system and boasts a beis medrash with 15 students. Their mission statement is to “provide a high level Jewish and general studies education in a warm and caring atmosphere. We provide a wide array of extracurricular opportunities for students to thrive beyond the classroom.” Uniquely, their building is used for activities until mid- night every weekday. They also highlight “the tremendous love and care we have for each student.” To illustrate this, Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky shared an experience from several years ago about a member of the hockey team who was diagnosed with cancer. Each student undertook to perfect one middah or one mitzvah to merit a refuah sheleimah for this teenager. In addition, the hockey team raised money for Chai Lifeline. This has become an annual undertaking and the hockey team has raised some $100,000 so far. The happy ending: Rabbi Kaminetsky was mesader kiddushin at this boy’s wedding. He confided that he has been invited to nearly all of the 120 weddings of DRS grads. “We like to say that if your son attends DRS you must be prepared to invite his 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade rebbeim to his wedding,” said Rabbi Kaminetsky. DRS is the largest school with 325 enrollees. Last year, the graduating class had 79 boys. Typically, 95% attend beis medrash after graduation—99% in Israel. All boys attend college within three years of graduation. Rambam Mesivta. 15 Frost Lane, Lawrence, admissions office 516-371-5824. Established in 1991, Rambam has no affiliated elementary school or beis medrash program. Their mission statement is to offer “a unique educational program with a proven track record of success year after year spanning hundreds of graduates. Substantially, all of our graduates continue post-high school Torah studies at leading yeshivot in Eretz Yisrael where they are eagerly recruited.” Rambam is “a small school by design with a purely merit-based admissions policy, which ensures a unique environment and chevrah in which the development of middos, character development, and leadership are emphasized. They inculcate their students with critical Jewish values such as ahavat Eretz Yisrael, ahavat Yisrael, kavod habriot, tzniyut, yosher, and hakarat hatov.” Rambam is the second smallest school with 165 enrollees and 36 graduates in 2010. Typically, 98% attend beis medrash after graduation—90% in Israel. Within three years, 100% of graduates are attending college. Last year, eight

Continued on Page 19 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 17 HAFTR Rambam DRS MAY YFR MCS MYHT Year established 1978 1991 1997 1987 1969 1995 2008 Rabbi Gedaliah Rabbi Zev Meir Rabbi Yisroel Rabbi Aaron Rabbi Menachem Menahel/Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe Rabbi Avi Pollak Oppen Friedman Kaminetsky Brafman Gold November 14 October 17 November 7 November 14 November 14 Open House none none 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. Size of 2010 graduating 48 boys, 47 girls 36 79 41 46 69 n.a. class Percent not receiving 0 0 0 0 4 12 n.a. Regents diploma (2010) Total enrollment 163 boys 165 325 170 170 295 35 Tuition (2010) $19,950 $18,750 $18,100 $12,900 $11,500 $15,700 $15,500 Collared shirt, Button-down shirt with Dress code for school pants, Like a mentsch collar, regular pants, Hat & jacket Hat & jacket Hat & jacket Hat & jacket davening no sweats shoes/sneakers Button-down shirt, Dress pants (12th White shirt, dark Dress shirt, dress Dress code for school same same same dark pants grade: white shirt) pants, shoes pants, shoes 1 night mandatory Mishmar/night seder per 1 1 hr mandatory, 1 hr mandatory, 2 hrs mandatory, 1 1 1 ⁄4 hrs (2 nights for seniors), 4 ⁄2 hrs mandatory 1 ⁄2 hrs mandatory week 4 nights optional 2 hrs optional additional optional 1 night optional Affiliated Bais Medrash no no yes yes yes yes yes Peer tutoring available yes yes yes yes yes yes no Sports Leagues JV and varsity yes yes yes none none yes AP courses offered: 11 total 10 total 14 total 7 total 3 total 7 total 2 total Calculus yes yes yes yes yes yes no Science yes yes yes yes yes yes no History yes yes yes yes yes yes yes English Literature yes yes yes yes no yes yes Other yes yes yes yes no yes no College courses offered yes yes no yes no no no Percent in Bais Medrash 75–80% 98% 95% 99% 100% 85% n.a. after graduation (100% in Israel) (90% in Israel) (99% in Israel) (99% in Israel) (60% in Israel) (25% in Israel) Percent in College within 100% 100% 100% 85% 75% 35% n.a. 3 years of graduation Colleges attended: Touro 1% 10% 10% 18% 70% 50% n.a. CUNY/SUNY 45% 25% 30% 60% 15% 30% Yeshiva University 8% 60% 45% 16% 15% 0 Ivy League 8% 5% 5% 0 0 0 Correspondence/on-line 0 0 0 0 0 10% Other 38% 0 10% 6% 0 10%

18 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Guide To Yeshivas dent success in the finest yeshivos and dents to become ‘healthy’ Bnei Torah, We and our son, who just started Continued from Page 17 universities. Our graduates are knowl- developing in students a love of G-d, tenth grade, are delighted with our selec- edgeable, articulate, dedicated Orthodox Man, and Torah. Upon completing tion. Of course, dear reader, we may not Rambam graduates received semichah Jews who become productive members MYHT, students will be dedicated to share the same priorities and goals. May from Yeshiva University—a dispropor- of society and ardent advocates for the the betterment of the klal, and to con- Hashem guide you and your son to max- tionately large representation from a Jewish people.” tinuing to strive both in their studies imize his potential and may he bring us rather small school. HAFTR prides itself on designing indi- and in developing their relationship all much nachas. In an exclusive interview, Rabbis vidualized courses of study for each stu- with Hashem.” Uniquely, interactive Asking an overworked menahel/principal Friedman and Eliach captured the dent; there is no specific track for lower- learning is practiced in all classes; there to complete a checklist and grant a personal essence of their school with the follow- performing students. They also “provide a is no lecturing. interview is more than a small imposition. I ing anecdote: During the 2001 intifada, wide array of extracurricular activities Conclusion. Which is the best yeshi- want to thank all the wonderful institutions tourism in Israel was suffering terribly. that give students opportunities to va high school? This is impossible to who cooperated with data submission and For winter vacation, Rambam Mesivta engage in community service, cultural answer. More importantly, which is the personal interviews to make this article pos- created “Mitnadvim,” a student volun- arts, athletics, student government, reli- best high school for your son? Also not sible. Yasher ko’ach to the rebbeim and teer program. Fourteen students visited gious and political activism, and academ- an easy one. When our son was gradu- teachers who devote so much of their energy Israel in January 2001 (of course with ic competition and research.” ating from eighth grade, a decision had into the chinuch of our children. May you parental consent) and volunteered on In an exclusive interview, Rabbi to be made. We did our best to research all enjoy much nachas from your talmidim an air force base. They had daily shiurim Oppen (limudei kodesh principal) and the options and make an educated, and wonderful institutions! O and were able to give chizuk to our Ms. Lippman (limudei chol principal) informed decision. There is so much Israeli brethren. This grew into an annu- indicated that their graduates served in inaccurate information and rumor that Renee Jeret, MA, a retired audiologist, resides in Lawrence with her husband and three children. al mission that has expanded to include leadership positions and as volunteers it can be difficult to uncover the truth. Her son is in 10th grade at one of the fine schools painting bomb shelters, volunteering in at top universities throughout the Be diligent in your research! listed above. soup kitchens, and assisting in Shaarei United States—and maintained their Zedek Hospital. This program truly responsibilities as halachah-observant reflects a deep commitment to chesed Jews. HAFTR graduates have organized and to Eretz Yisrael. minyanim through the Hillel chapters Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns at Princeton, Harvard, and elsewhere. and Rockaway. 635 Central Avenue, They also play active roles in Chabad Cedarhurst, admissions office 516-569- and MASA. “Recently, one of our gradu- 3807. Established in 1978, HAFTR graduates stood up to anti-Israel propaganda ated 95 boys and girls last year. The on the University of Albany campus. He school, evenly split between the gen- organized counter-demonstrations, ders, consists of 163 boys. Their mission influenced others, and made a kiddush is “to offer a warm, Torah-rich, student- Hashem.” centered environment in which stu- Mesivta Yam HaTorah. 27-16 Healy dents enjoy a dual curriculum of inten- Avenue, Far Rockaway, admissions office sive limudei kodesh and rigorous aca- 516-295-5700. Established in 2008, MYHT demics in the humanities and sciences. will have its first graduating class (seven Their challenging course of study is boys) in 2011. There are a total of 35 boys designed to foster creative and inde- enrolled in the school. pendent thought and to facilitate stu- “MYHT’s mission is to establish stu-

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 19 ALIYAH CHRONICLE (Fahrenheit) heat in our sukkah (more on fact that rain is a phenomenon of nature tion from a kibbutz across the road from Continued from Front Cover that later) with our lunch guests, Dr. that appears to occur randomly makes it Bet Shemesh), the highest recorded tem- Chanoch (you might remember him as almost impossible for there to be clear perature for Bet Shemesh this year was is, after all, a major focus of the chagim. Alan) and Mrs. Naomi Schwartz and their skies everywhere. As such, I used to rea- 104 degrees. So these temperatures are The longer we live here, the more we family on Shabbat HaMoed,I shared an son that there was always a community very close to the hottest we have had all come to understand that fact. Especially idea that had been percolating in my in need of punishment and that is where summer. because of the davening. brain for at least a week. It was a real eye- the rain was sent each year. Even in leap years, when the chagim Hebrew is a living language to us now. opener to me. Now that I live here, I realize how mis- fall in late September through mid- We are immersed in it continuously. When I was a kid, I remember being guided (there is no other way to say it) October, it is very hot here. It is also very With each passing day, our comfort with taught by one of my rebbeim about those thoughts were. One of the central dry. The rain season will not start for a Hebrew increases, and with it our insight Sukkot and its proximity to Yom Kippur. tenets of the shalosh regalim is that all couple of weeks and is not really heavy into the meanings of a lot of the things He taught us that by going out into the Jews are supposed to come to Israel to until late December. Rain during Sukkot we say throughout our tefillot. It is quite sukkah, despite the often cold and some- celebrate them as olim la’regel. If so, then is unheard of! This more accurately amazing. times downright frigid conditions the weather in Chicago, New York, Miami, explains some of the things we under- Goldie commented that there is noth- (remember—I grew up in Chicago, where London, or Tanzania is immaterial! It is stand about the chagim. ing like true understanding. She never we often wore parkas into the sukkah), only the weather in Israel, the place Any correlation of Sukkot to the felt comfortable with translated mach- we demonstrate our renewed commit- where the chagim are supposed to be cel- weather makes no sense. If we want to zorim in the past, finding it too difficult ment to fulfilling the mitzvot no matter ebrated, that matters. guarantee that we have weather-related to maintain any kind of concentration how uncomfortable they might be. If anything, it is the extreme heat of discomfort, we would need to have while trying to daven from both sides of Sukkot therefore had to be placed in the Sukkot that is the inconvenience. In the Sukkot either sometime in August or the page. Yet now she does not need the beginning of the cold months, instead of five times we have celebrated Sukkot January, not September or October. In translations for a good portion of the dav- during the spring. here, I have never had to wear a parka, fact, if we had Sukkot in August, fewer ening. Even those words that are not Throughout my youth and adulthood, or even a sweater. If anything, I have people would keep the mitzvah due to commonly used are decipherable this made perfect sense to me. Each year bemoaned the fact that I could not the discomfort with the heat. We slept in because she understands, intuitively, that I sat with a coat in the sukkah,I wear shorts in the sweltering heat that our sukkah this year for the first time ever how to break down a word and find its reminded myself that the need for the we experience in the sukkah. It is (our ground-level sukkah had been invad- root meaning. coat is part of the chag itself, and allows ridiculously hot here. ed by cats and many creepy-crawlies each So much of davening that was a bunch me to demonstrate my renewed commit- Bet Shemesh is known to be hotter night, making it impossible to sleep of Hebrew words strung together that ment to observance. Even in the years than many other places. Even discount- there—this year our sukkah was on the had a vague meaning have become like that we had a warmer Sukkot, the poten- ing that, friends in the Gush, in the North, second-floor balcony). Even with fans, it poetry. The yearning for geulah, the Beis tial for cold weather made the same and in Chashmonaim/Modiin all have was pretty hot in the sukkah and very HaMikdash, and a return to observing all statement. been talking about how hot it was here uncomfortable. Had I known it would be the mitzvot as intended are so clear, as is Even rain is a part of this psychology. I this year. Bet Shemesh recorded the fol- so hot, I may not have thought to do it in the loss of Israel as a home for all Jews remember certain years when we waited lowing high temperatures over Sukkot: the first place. When I decided to do this, (even now when we are closer to that for hours to see if we could get into the 1st day–90 degrees; Shabbat HaMoed–89 I assumed the temps would be in the 60s than we have been in almost 2,000 years). sukkah and make Kiddush on the first degrees; Shemini Atzeret–97 degrees; or 70s, like it normally would be in late With this new connection to and under- night of Sukkot. After all, having rain on Shabbat Bereishit–99 degrees. As I write September. standing of the davening comes a deeper the first night of Sukkot is a sign that this, it is currently 94 degrees—on the I plan on sleeping in the sukkah next understanding of the nature of the chag- Hashem does not want our mitzvah and third day of October! To provide a frame year, hoping that it will be cooler. But if im as well. stands as a repudiation of us as a commu- of reference, according to the same site Sukkot would be in August—when the As we were sweating in the 89-degree nity. Everyone knows that. Of course, the that I got this data from (a weather sta- weather would be guaranteed to be

20 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES uncomfortable to the maximum level— there is no way I would sleep in the sukkah.I do not think that the weather is supposed to be a factor at all. We go out to the sukkah for many reasons. I am not a rav and I am not going to expound upon the issue other than to say that we are leaving the comforts of our very comfortable homes and live as much as possible outside in temporary housing. Temporary housing is less comfortable than our homes, no matter what the temperature is. We show our willingness to do a mitzvah, any mitzvah, by building and living in the sukkah after Yom Kippur—and a parka is not needed for this (thankfully). It actually rained here the morning of erev Sukkot and soaked our sukkot. The rain was short and really a non-event (other than for all the people who wondered if, rare as it was, it was some kind of sign from heaven). However, that rain, and the three-minute drizzle we had while sitting in the sukkah on Friday night of Shabbat HaMoed, made me think about the whole issue of rain on Sukkot. As you know from my previous articles, rain and water are a major issue here in Israel and a major hot-button topic with me personally. Rainfall is such an important event here. The fact that it simply does not rain during the late spring, summer, and early fall months is a foreign concept to people who live in places where rain falls year-round. You may understand it intellectually, but you cannot feel it in your heart. You cannot understand the joy that adults and children alike experience when the first really soaking rain washes out the streets. When we pray for rain, we pray for rain here in Israel. The whole focus on rain is because it is the lifeblood of our crops, our livestock, and our people. We are living through a terrible dry spell (even with the average-to-above-average rainfall totals from last year) and the con- cern over something as simple as rain is a major deal. Rain is viewed as such a huge gift and blessing here—whenever it comes. At least normally. The only time we do not want rain is for the chag of Sukkot, because that is when all the Jews are supposed to be here celebrating the chag in their sukkah. Rain, which is a blessing a week later, is terrible during Sukkot, and truly would represent a repudiation of us and our mitzvah. Rain in New York is no big deal. We aren’t supposed to be in New York or any other place. We are all supposed to be here, and in a perfect world we all will be here–G-d willing, for the next holiday we celebrate. O

Shmuel Katz works at Machon Puah, a non-profit fertility organization that provides, worldwide, free halachic and medical counseling, independent supervision of fertility treatments, and educational programming. Shmuel, his wife Goldie, and their six children made aliyah in July of 2006. Prior to his aliyah, Shmuel was the executive director of the Yeshiva of South Shore in Hewlett. You can contact him at [email protected].

WHAT’S YOUR OPINION? E-MAIL US AT [email protected]

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 21 The Year In Israel and similarly themed paraphernalia. on porches that had specifically been of Jews, of all different backgrounds and Continued from Front Cover Stands selling lulavim and esrogim were designed so as not to hang over one levels of observance. The sheer number practically on every other sidewalk square another. I watched in awe as scenes I was of lulavim raised almost triumphantly seemed like the entire Five Towns com- (I’ll get to the main arba minim market- so used to seeing on pictures hanging on into the air at Hallel must have been in munity was … I mean, it got to the point place in Me’ah She’arim later; that place my sukkah’s walls came to life around the thousands. where I would have been shocked not to was absolutely crazy …). The kids were off me, and I quietly chalked up another The way such an immense gathering run into at least three or four people who from school, and even the secular Israelis point on my mental scoreboard for mak- became silenced immediately upon the daven in my shul any time I went to the were planning where to go on family trips ing aliyah. recitation of the kohanim’s blessing was Kotel. I half expected the rabbi to get up over chol ha’moed . Posters plastered the While the sudden cultural shift had a almost eerie in its totality. I certainly have and speak after we finished Minchah. walls and fences all across Yerushalayim, profound impact on my feelings of felt at times “less than close to some” And there is not a doubt in my mind that screaming which organizations were Jewish unity and pride, it was overshad- members of other sects of Judaism. But there were more people who spoke going to have the most exciting simchas owed by an even larger catalyst to my when we all shouted “Shema Yisrael” English fluently than Hebrew throughout beis ha’shoeivah over the chag. newly broadened perspective. The famed together at the top of our lungs after dav- the Rechavya neighborhood in ening,I was practically in tears, and I Yerushalayim … don’t believe I have ever felt closer to my Anyhow, for those of you who weren’t fellow Jew (and not just physically). I’m here, I’ll do my best to try and explain confident that I was not alone in think- what kind of surreal experience the past The sheer number of lulavim ing that Mashiach was coming at that couple of weeks were like for me. I had moment. never been here before for Sukkos, so Any more attempts at capturing and what I got to be a part of was as novel an raised almost triumphantly into accurately conveying to you that adventure as it was incredible. moment, when I stood at the holiest First off, the Yamim Noraim were sim- the air at Hallel must have been in place on earth and witnessed a scene so ply far more intense versions of what I mesmerizing, bewildering, and uplifting had been used to in America. Sukkos, on and felt prouder than I had ever before to the other hand, was just a completely dif- the thousands. be a part of this great nation, would do ferent animal. Oddly, it was so unrecog- more harm than good. So I’ll move on, nizable that it was more reminiscent of and leave you trusting me that being an entirely different holiday. there was a memory that will be forever Just as when the weather begins to get In Me’ah She’arim, the metamorphosis birkas kohanim on the first day of chol etched into the back of my subconscious. cold back in New York, X-mas and the was the most apparent and the effects the ha’moed at the Kotel was like nothing I N NN entire “holiday season” officially take most noticeable. Young children were expected, and I am still feeling its seismic My hosts were remarkably accommo- hold of the country’s central focus, so too running through the streets carrying bun- aftereffects on my life outlook. dating and extremely hospitable. I had an did Sukkos in Israel. But the transforma- dles of bamboo, and the sounds of their Basically, once every Sukkos, a massive awesome location and fantastic living tion took place in a shorter amount of fathers and older brothers hammering assemblage is arranged at the Kotel conditions throughout chag because of time (right after Yom Kippur), and was away could be heard well into the night. Ma’aravi to daven together in an enor- their graciousness. They allowed me to bigger and better. I bought a tie for my lulav from a couple mous minyan, followed by a joint birkas sleep in their sukkah each night and were Throughout the capital, “V’samachta of 4-year-olds who had set up shop at one kohanim and acceptance of ol malchus exceptionally nice about everything. I’d b’chagecha” could be heard playing from corner, as a third one worked diligently at Shamayim.I merited to be there this year. like to publicly, although anonymously, numerous storefronts that had whipped making more behind them. Sukkahs were And it was deeply beautiful and moving. thank them here, and I wish them much out their well-used Sukkos decorations popping up at all heights and elevations, Every inch of plaza was filled with hordes hatzlachah in everything.

22 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES I ate at six different places for the six yom tov meals. Each meal had its own fla- vor (ha!), and each was a ton of fun. I really was blessed to find such a magnificent lineup of seudos, when a lot of my friends ended up eating cold schnitzel in their hosts’ sukkahs, alone and bored. Advice to next year’s students: start planning early, and call absolutely anyone you know. The main arba minim shuk in Me’ah She’arim was insane. No other word does it justice. What else would you call hundreds of chassidim jostling about in search of specific objects located at some 40 stands, all within a space of maybe a small basketball gym? I spent almost three hours there haggling amidst the packed sardine-esque crowds, to find the most attractive stuff at the cheapest price. It wasn’t easy and it wasn’t fun, but it was a crazy experience and I ended up with a really nice set of arba minim. Some more notes about my bein ha’z- manim experience: • I went to a bunch of Simchas beis ha’shoeivah s in Me’ah She’arim each night of chol ha’moed. Loads of fun. Got to pretty much re-experience the arba minim marketplace, but this time everyone was running around in a circle. Even a life- guard would have been quickly swept up in that current! • Simchas Torah I was back in yeshiva. Had a blast, and really appreciated the chance to get to know the guys here much better. One of the main reasons I am studying where I am studying is that I knew we were getting an awesome group of kids this year, and I felt bad there really hadn’t been all that much time to socialize until then. But Simchas Torah made up for it quite nicely, and I feel I’m a lot closer to a whole bunch of these new friends than I was a week ago. • The three-day yom tov was weird again. Seeing an elderly rabbi, with tzitzis out and a black hat on his head, stepping onto a bus on a day which was yom tov for me will never get old … • My yeshiva, as will many others, will be going on a trip right before the new z’man starts. Should be chilled and a lot of fun, and should give us even more time to get to know one another. Based on what I heard from Shanah Bet guys, it’s one of the highlights of the year. In sum, while I had as remarkable a time as I could have, the break was a little longer than I would have asked for, and certainly more than I needed. So I’m kind of happy it’s drawing to a close, and here’s expectantly looking ahead to a productive, intense, and spiritually nourishing choref z’man! O

“Talmid X” recently graduated from a high school in the Five Towns/Far Rockaway community and is enrolled in a well-known yeshiva in Israel for the 2010–2011 academic year. Comments and questions for him are welcome at [email protected].

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

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 23 24 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES time. There was one year (not that long the chairs in the Sukkah so everyone is ago) when I was really into physical fit- as comfortable eating in the outdoors as ness and managed to get to Echo Park a they can possibly be. Seeing my few mornings a week to swim for twenty youngest daughter, Lea, accept the minutes and be at work by 9:30. I think I award for the best davener at Chabad on was most “under control” right after the Shabbos of Sukkot made me so Yussie was born and I felt that although I proud! Getting to shul early enough on could not control his condition (I certain- that same Shabbos to see my Dad walk ly couldn’t cure trisomy 21), it was within up to the bimah to receive the aliyah for Lose Weight, Roller Skate my power to control my own physical Levi warmed my heart. Witnessing the condition to a certain extent. joy on Yussie’s face as he got a ride on Nothing to write about! Imagine me not truck that stood outside the gym on a But what has happened? I’ve gotten Lenny’s shoulders during the Simchat having anything to write about. Usually I Saturday night with big, bold lettering on complacent over the years. More “out of Torah dancing was priceless, and seeing have a plan when I begin to write. I might its side: Lose Weight, Roller Skate. As control.” It’s too cold and rainy to walk, Rochel enjoy the myriads of gefilte fish not know where I want to end, but I usual- soon as I thought about that memory, and easier (and tastier) to eat cookies that was served along with all the other ly know where I want to begin. the words came and I wrote. than to make a salad. delicacies was truly satisfying! This reminds me of a marvelous I must admit that I have never actually Tomorrow morning I am going back to Over this month of Tishrei we cele- English professor I had at Queens enjoyed roller skating, but somehow the Weight Watchers. I took a “vacation” over brated three birthdays in our family: Lea, College, Marie Ponsot, who guided us one words on that truck never left my mind. the summer, and certainly over this vast Rochel, and my Dad all became a year day on how to write freely when you I need to become creative when it yom tov period, but I’m ready “to go back older, and therefore a year wiser. As I think you have nothing to write about. comes to exercise since I really don’t to work.” come closer to my birthday in the month Prof. Ponsot—I haven’t thought about enjoy most forms of physical exertion. As I really enjoyed the yom tov season. As of Cheshvan I hope to learn a bit from her in a while. What a wonderful teacher! my readers know, I enjoy swimming, but much as we complain about having to my experiences. Each year we try to getting to a pool to swim is not so simple prepare almost every week for another resolve to improve ourselves, and with and takes time out from my busy sched- three day stretch, there is something each birthday it gives us pause to think ule. What am I doing? Rationalizing? I’m magical about the season. And I enjoy how to do so. Roller skating might not be Although I could not just plain lazy. When I’m in a groove and the hustle and bustle to find just the in my future, but maybe I will dust off control his condition, eager to exercise I can always find the right foods to eat, and how to navigate the treadmill. O it was within my power to control my own physical condition to a certain extent.

She brought out the best in her students and really made everyone shine. I just “Googled” her. Born in 1929, she is teaching in the graduate writing program at Columbia University and was recently elected a chancellor of the Academy of American Poets. When Prof. Ponsot would read almost anything it sounded like beautiful poetry! And so now I recall one particular assignment that we had that term: to take a moment in time out of our busy schedules and just write what comes to us. At the time that I took my moment I was sitting in my room with nothing to write about, and I remembered thinking about the previous summer before that term of college when I had worked as a counselor at Camp Lavi, and the big

For the next issue, deadline for reserving ad space is Monday, October 11 at 5:00 P.M.

All graphics for ads must be in by Tuesday, October 12 at 5:00 P.M.

Call 516-984-0079

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 25 Democratic City Council caucus that ported divisions and anti-Semitic rhetoric. Barron always has a loyal vote to support Whatever one’s political party affilia- him in his hateful agenda. tion may be, it is certain that where Leaders within the Jewish community Avella comes into play, one needs to vote believe that the upcoming November the other way. elections—on a national and state level— Sincerely, will be one of the most important in Charles Gold recent memory. This includes the NY Frank Padavan Deserves ber to support Barron was Avella who State Senate elections where tax policies Wanderer For Assembly Our Support helped form the “Barron/Avella New York for small businesses and funding for pri- Dear Editor, Dear Editor, City Council Democratic Reform vate schooling may take deeper hits if As a businessman and tax attorney liv- We are still weeks away from the Movement.” In May, when Barron com- Democrats continue controlling all ing and working in the Five Towns and November elections. However, before pared Gaza to “a concentration death branches of government in Albany. In running as the Republican and things get heated up with too many polit- camp,” Avella didn’t see a need to addition, if the Democrats continue con- Conservative Party candidate for the 20th ical messages and ads, it is imperative for denounce his friend’s statement. trolling the full legislature after Assembly District, I read with great inter- voters to take note of former NYC A few years ago, Barron introduced a November, it will give them the go ahead est, “Guv tallies the Savings,” by James T. Council Member Tony Avella (D) who is bill in the Council that would have to redistrict NY’s Congressional seats in a Madore in the Sunday, October 3, 2010, vying to run against State Senator Frank named a street in NYC in memory of way that will embolden President Obama Newsday. Padavan. nationally known anti-Semite and racist to continue with his tough handling of The article points out that with a four In 2009, when current Council mem- Sonny Carson who few New Yorker’s Israel. percent property tax cap (a rate nearly ber, former Black Panther member, and remember in a good light. Avella, not sur- The last thing that we in Queens need is twice the current rate of inflation), Long outspoken anti-Semite Charles Baron prisingly, joined the most radical mem- to send to Albany someone who was ready Islanders as a collective would have saved decided that he might run for the bers to vote to fulfill the wish of a known to give the second most powerful City $2.7 billion this year alone. Speaker’s seat, almost all Council mem- anti-Semite to memorialize the name of seat—the Speaker’s post—to an outspoken Both gubernatorial candidates as well bers abstained from giving him support, someone who was an instigator of hate anti-Semite. In this critical year, when as all of Long Island’s state senators are in because Barron has a long record of drum- in the City and architect of the bloody every seat hangs in the balance on all levels favor of a cap. And what is my opponent’s ming up anti-Semitic and racist senti- Crown Heights riots. Due to Avella’s of government, we cannot afford to send reaction to this? “The responsibility (for ments. However, the only Council mem- actions, it is known within the to Albany a person who supports and sup- capping taxes) is not mine. The responsibility is yours.” (Harvey Weisenberg, from a primary debate held at the Woodmere Public Library on September 7, 2010, quoted in the Long Island Herald, September 8, 2010). Unfortunately for the homeowners, business owners, and students of my Assembly District and all of Long Island, current Assemblyman Weisenberg has voted in lockstep with the Speaker of the Assembly and the New York City delegation who are opposed to the property tax cap. After 21 years in Albany, it appears that he has become out of touch with the reality of maintaining a home, family, and business on Long Island. When elected, in addition to introducing other initiatives to reduce the taxpay- ers’ burdens, I will fight to enact legislation that caps property taxes for all NY homeowners by the lesser of four percent or the then current rate of inflation. We must take creative steps to reign in taxes and state spending and stem the exodus of people, businesses, and jobs from our state. We need new representatives who will aggres- sively employ fiscal conservancy. We do not need representatives who say, “Taxes— That’s your problem, not mine.” Joshua Wanderer Republican and Conservative Candidate 20th Assembly District

Submit your photo to the 5 Towns Jewish Times!

You can upload your digital photos and see them printed in the weekly edition of the 5 Towns Jewish Times

www.5tjt.com

26 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Recipe: Grilled Moroccan Style Baby Lamb Chops

BY MARTY LEVIN EXECUTIVE CHEF MAUZONE’S CATERING BY CELEBRATION

Yield: 16 Chops Ingredients: 2 racks of lamb frenched 16 chops (baby lamb chops) 2 Tbsp. olive oil Moroccan spice rub (ras al hanout), consisting of: 2 tsp. coriander seeds 2 tsp. cumin seeds 1 tsp. fennel seeds 1 tsp. tumeric 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper 1 tsp. ground all spice 1 tsp. ground ginger 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. ground nutmeg 1 tsp. paprika 1/2 tsp. cardamom Directions: For the Moroccan spice rub: Toast the coriander, cumin, and fennel; grind in a spice grinder to a powder and add to the other spices. Mix well. Store extra spice in airtight jar for up to 3 months. For the lamb chops: Heat the grill to high. Brush the chops on both sides with oil and season with a few teaspoons of the Moroccan spice rub. Place on the grill until golden brown and slightly charred, 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the chops over and continue grilling to medium-rare done- ness, 2 to 3 minutes longer. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

For more information, e-mail [email protected].

For the next issue, deadline for reserving ad space is Monday, October 11 at 5:00 P.M.

All graphics for ads must be in by Tuesday, October 12 at 5:00 P.M.

Call 516-984-0079

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 27 28 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 29 prevent or avert a problem. I liken it to a Therefore, my above reference to us as a chess player. A good chess player has to forward-looking group of people isn’t be able to look ahead and know what totally accurate, either. Let’s just say that awaits him on the board. we like to look ahead. This reminds me of my father, alav While the term “looking ahead” may ha’shalom, who was a superior chess play- appear to have the same meaning as “for- er. True, he was too old to play with the ward-looking,” it has nothing to do with likes of Bobby Fischer, but had he been wisdom or attempting to make provi- given that opportunity (and dubious sions for the future. Looking ahead is Forward-Looking honor), chances are that my dad would what we Jews often do around holiday have held his own. My dad did, on one time. It’s done mostly by females. We do occasion, get to play with Samuel it at almost every yom tov during the Well, we made it through. The Yamim some people ill. For the next few days, Reshevsky, the Polish-born chess prodigy course of the calendar year. It isn’t entire- Noraim, Sukkos, and Simchas Torah of the majority of us will be delighted and and grandmaster who dominated ly clear to me why we do this, since there 5771 are history. Large pots and pans relieved to sit down to a simple and American chess for close to 40 years. In isn’t a thing in the world we can do to have been shoved to the rear of cabi- healthful dinner of broiled fish and salad addition to that honor, my father once prevent or avert the issue, the issue being nets and cupboards. Lulavim and greens. That won’t last, of course, played 12 men simultaneously at a chess the yom tov itself. esrogim are withering, and all the silver because memories are short. event. In the spirit of total honesty, I have Still, the single most oft asked (and esrog boxes are back on display in a But, despite short memories, we won’t no idea how many of those games he answered) question among ourselves is, breakfront, or what my mother used to entirely forget the holidays that just actually won, but I remember that he did- “How does it come out next year?” And refer to as a china closet. But most passed, because we are without a doubt a n’t lose many. And just the fact that he the answer, at least the answer this year, sukkahs haven’t yet been taken down forward-looking group and have already could play a dozen games simultaneously is: “It comes out the same way. It’s going and their components put back in stor- spent some time discussing 5772. says a lot about his ability. to be another three-day yom tov again.” In age for the next 11 months. One who is said to be “forward-look- But being a forward-looking person every case, that response is followed by a In the gastronomic department, most ing” is generally considered to be a sensi- isn’t about chess games. Those hyphen- combination of a grimace and a world- of us can’t bear the sight of even one ble individual. It’s the wise person who, ated words are an adjective that weary sigh. Both of which indicate some- more brisket or kugel right now. And the given advance information, takes advan- describes a person as one who attempts thing less than joy! Housewives in partic- very thought of stuffed cabbage makes tage of the knowledge and manages to to make provisions for the future. ular are not thrilled about having to deal with the logistics of planning and preparing 72 hours’ worth of meals. But things could always be worse, as was recently pointed out to me. Along with the rest of the observant Jewish world, I was kvetching about facing the first two days of Sukkos followed by Shabbos and then facing the same setup a week later when Simchas Torah and Shemini Atzeres would also be followed by Shabbos. And then, just when I was having my own personal pity party, my nephew Yaakov, who lives in Israel with his wife Cara and their beautiful children, sent an e- mail to me. It arrived the day after Rosh Hashanah and it set me straight! His young children understand that while they celebrate holidays for one day, we here in chutz la’aretz (outside of Israel) celebrate the same holiday for two days. One of Yaakov’s children became con- fused. Rosh Hashanah in Israel is the one chag that is celebrated for two days and thus, this year Israelis had the same three- day celebration that we did: two days of yom tov with Shabbos following. So this particular youngster assumed that if they had to celebrate the chag for two days, we here in the United States had to celebrate it for three. It made sense to him. After all, he figured that Americans always have one day more of a chag than they do in Israel. So during Rosh Hashanah he told his father that he felt sorry for people in chutz la’aretz because they must be having a four-day chag! After all, an extra day is an extra day! Yaakov cracked up and then set the boy straight, and shortly after yom tov ended he sent an e-mail telling me about his son’s observation. He ended the e-mail with the following suggestion: “Cheer up, Aunt Hannah, things could always be worse.” How right he is. The very thought of a four-day chag is enough to give me the chills. Keeping that thought in mind, I have made the decision not to obsess about next year because, even if I did, what good would it do? Besides, there will be plenty of time to start the kvetching next September. O

Hannah Berman lives in Woodmere and is a licensed real-estate broker associated with Marjorie Hausman Realty. She can be reached at [email protected] or 516-902-3733. 30 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 31 Food Allergies

Deciding what to serve your child for mines, which can cause mild to severe a nutritious meal can be stressful reactions affecting your eyes, nose, enough without the added obstacle of throat, respiratory system, digestive food allergies. So many children are system, and skin. The most common afflicted with an allergy of some sort food allergies are those to milk, eggs, these days. In the United States alone, tree nuts, soy, wheat, and gluten. there are about three million children Luckily, most of these allergies can be with food allergies. Even if your own outgrown, but for those that are not, children do not have allergies, you must parents must be resourceful to find Pumpkin muffins be sensitive to this issue when packing adequate alternatives. For dairy, egg, their lunch for school. and fish allergies, a vegan cookbook is Food allergies occur when the body a good place to find recipes without products. “Gluten-free,” “egg-free,” and ingredients can often produce very simi- mistakes a component in a food as these ingredients. “nut-free” are common descriptions on lar results and help your child feel less something harmful. Your body reacts Since food allergies have become so product packaging available in almost restricted by her allergies. by creating antibodies to protect itself, prevalent, there has been a huge surge in every supermarket. When cooking at Eggs. When baking, there are products resulting in the production of hista- the availability of alternatives for many home, substituting for commonly used that take the place of eggs to leaven baked goods. They cannot be used, however, to make meringues or scrambled

Peanut butter is banned from most schools, so soy nut butter is a great way to keep your PB&J-loving kids satisfied.

eggs. When making pasta, there are plenty of egg-free varieties made from semolina, rice, or corn. They do have different textures and consistencies, so try out different types to find the one that you prefer. Milk and dairy. Milk is commonly avoided due to lactose intolerance and kosher restrictions, as well as for food allergies. Substitutes such as soy, rice, and almond milk are great healthy alternatives to use when cooking or straight from the carton with cookies or a bowl of cereal. There are also dairy-free cheese substitutes that come in many varieties, from American to mozzarella, that can top a pizza or even a burger. Dairy-free ice creams have also been around for a while, made with soy or coconut milk. Nuts and nut butters. Roasted seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin, are generally safe for those who have tree-nut allergies and are a great snack food or can be a great replacement for pine nuts in pesto or for almonds in some recipes. Peanut butter is banned from most schools, so soy nut butter is a great way to keep your PB&J-loving kids satisfied. Butters made of sunflower and pumpkin seeds are also available alternatives. Soy. Unfortunately, this is one of the more challenging allergies, since there is not a suitable substitute, and many

Continued on Page 36 32 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

she hung up on me. as though she really hates me, because To say that I was shocked and con- you’ve got to really hate someone to fused is an understatement. After all, speak to them the way that she spoke to Rachel had no problem giving me me that day, over a year ago. On the other Bonnie’s phone number, and she must hand, I feel so much pain for what she have assumed that I asked for it because I and her whole family are going through wanted to call her. To suddenly rant at me and I want to reach out. I just don’t know with such vile language was appalling. I if my contacting her will add to her pain Dear Esther, matic event in her life, which was similar told my husband that Rachel was clearly and upset her even more, or whether she Rachel and I were best friends for to something I had experienced many nuts and that I had no intention of ever might appreciate hearing from an old many years. After elementary school, my years earlier. I decided it would be nice speaking to her again for as long as I lived. friend, despite the craziness that we had. family and I moved far away and we lost for me to call Bonnie, empathize with This happened over a year ago. I’m really conflicted about what I touch for a number of years. We bumped her, and offer her encouragement. I asked Several months ago, I learned that should do. I find myself thinking about into each other many years later in Israel, Rachel for Bonnie’s phone number, Rachel went through several tragedies in Rachel constantly and need some kind of after we were both married with chil- which she gladly gave me. her life that no one should ever know advice so that I can move forward, one dren. As we compared our lives, we I called Bonnie and got through to her; from. First of all, her son and daughter-in- way or another. couldn’t believe how many similarities Conflicted existed between us. We both married in Dear Conflicted, the same year to men by the name of Poor Rachel. You’re right—no one Mark. We both had three sons, and we should have to go through what she and both named one of them Jacob. We were The people who sweat the small stuff her husband are going through. How so astonished at these coincidences and very tragic for all of them. I’m sure there felt that our lost friendship was actually are so many words of comfort and sup- very powerful, and we vowed to always usually don’t have too much big stuff port that you would like to share with stay connected. her at this time. Despite the crazy We managed to stay in touch, though going on in their lives to worry about. mishap with Bonnie, the two of you we live on two opposite sides of the have been so close, on and off, for so country. We flew in for the wedding of many years and on some level appear to one of their sons, and they flew in for be kindred spirits. my husband’s surprise birthday party. I can understand why you are hesitat- We even went on a cruise together at I thought that she appreciated my call, law were in a serious car accident and ing to reach out at this time. It must feel one point. and that was that. The following day, neither of them survived. I learned that uncomfortable and you don’t want to add During this time, Rachel would keep Rachel called me up and began to scream Rachel and her husband took in their two any more salt to the wound, should me up to date about other classmates’ at me in a maniacal voice that actually young grandchildren and were now rais- Rachel resent your call. lives. It was fun and interesting hearing scared me. Apparently, Bonnie was very ing them. Additionally, her mother, However, my gut tells me that Rachel about them and I enjoyed keeping track upset with Rachel for telling me what whom I know she was always extremely would most likely be thrilled to hear of my former friends’ lives, even though was going on in Bonnie’s life and even close with, suffered a serious stroke and from you. Sadly, when we go through Rachel was the only one whom I actually more upset that I called. Rachel sounded was not doing well at all. tragic events in our lives, we develop a was in contact with. At one point, Rachel as though she wanted to kill me for mak- When I learned about how her life had clearer perspective regarding what is and mentioned to me that one of my former ing Bonnie so angry at her. After scream- turned into such a complete horror, I did- friends, Bonnie, was going through a trau- ing at me for what seemed like forever, n’t know what to do. On one hand, I feel Continued on Page 34

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 33 MINDBIZ The type of tragedies that you have Continued from Page 33 described are so enormous in their impact; like a tsunami, the devastation is what is not important in life. Obviously, massive and life-altering. Rachel felt some sort of betrayal when Is there a possibility that Rachel may you called Bonnie and told her that you hang up on you when you call? Of course knew what she was going through that possibility exists. And if she does, because of Rachel telling you. you’ll deal with it. Hopefully, you won’t Clearly Bonnie gave Rachel a serious take it personally. Even if you do, your “what for,” and Rachel transferred it over minor pain or discomfort should pale in to you. At the time, it might have seemed comparison to what Rachel has been like a serious offense in Rachel’s eyes. going through. For now, I think it has to But in the scheme of things, considering be about Rachel and what might be help- all that Rachel has subsequently gone ful for her. It’s absolutely not about you. through and is going through, I would So build up your confidence, tap into imagine that the minor event that took your feelings of love for Rachel, and be place between the three of you is sud- the best friend that you know how to be. denly just that—minor, if not altogether Esther forgettable. We often see that within human Esther Mann, LCSW, is a psychotherapist in Lawrence. Esther works with individuals and nature. The people who sweat the small couples. She can be reached at stuff usually don’t have too much big [email protected] or 516-314-2295. stuff going on in their lives to worry about. So they allow themselves to get all hot and bothered by people and things that truly don’t warrant their energy or Submit your photo to the reaction. If and when major calamities occur, they often experience a new reali- 5 Towns Jewish Times! ty, putting things into their proper place. At this time, Rachel and her husband are probably using every last bit of their You can upload your strength to survive each and every day, while caring for their orphaned grand- digital photos and see them children and ill mother. For now, all the printed in the weekly edition rest of the stuff is mere fluff. In that vein, I not only think it’s all of the 5 Towns Jewish Times right for you to call, but I encourage you to call. I encourage you to, if possible, get on a plane to visit and see if there is some www.5tjt.com concrete way that you can be, even temporarily, helpful to her and her family.

34 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 35 THE DISH Pumpkin Muffins (optional) Continued from Page 32 This is a vegan recipe, so it is Directions: egg-free and dairy-free, and it is Preheat oven to 350° and processed manufactured prod- also gluten-free and wheat-free. place rack in middle. Line muf- ucts contain soy ingredients. A It’s great as a breakfast, snack, or fin tray with liners and grease parent must be vigilant when side dish. with cooking spray. choosing purchased goods. The Ingredients: Mix the oat and gluten-free best advice would be to find 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon flour in a bowl. Whisk together simple homemade recipes to 1 tsp. baking soda all other ingredients in a large ensure no allergens are in your 1/2 tsp. nutmeg bowl until smooth. Combine child’s food. 1 cup oat flour (or whole oats flour mixture with other ingre- Wheat and gluten. When finely ground in food dients until just incorporated. substituting for all-purpose processor) Divide batter among muffin flour, there isn’t one flour that is 1/2 cup brown sugar cups, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, an exact substitute. Blending 3/4 cup gluten-free flour and bake until puffed and golden flours will achieve the best 1/3 cup vegetable oil brown, about 30–35 minutes. results. There are wheat-free and 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder Eating quality, delicious meals is easy gluten-free flour blends avail- 2 egg substitutes (equaling 2 when all the work is done for you. able, or you can mix your own. eggs) Hire a personal chef to prepare your dinners, Shabbos meals, or small Store-bought and bakery breads 1 1/2 cup pumpkin purée parties. For more information, contact now come in gluten-free and 1/2 tsp. salt Take Home Chef personal chef services by calling 516-508-3663, writing to wheat-free varieties, and usually 1/2 cup white sugar [email protected], or visiting taste the best when toasted. cinnamon-sugar blend www.TakeHomeChef.net.

And Noach began to be a man of the earth, and he planted a vineyard (Bereishis 9:20)

When Noach took to planting, Satan came and stood before him and said to him:“What are you planting?” Said he:“A vineyard.” Said Satan to him: “What is its nature?” Said he: “Its fruits are sweet, whether moist or dry, and one makes from them wine which brings joy to the heart.” Said Satan to Noach:“Do you desire that we should plant it together, you and I?” Said Noach:“Yes.”

What did Satan do? He brought a lamb and slaughtered it over the vine; then he brought a lion, and slaughtered it over it; then he brought a monkey, and slaughtered it over it; then he brought a swine, and slaughtered it over it; and he watered the vine with their blood.Thus he alluded to Noach:When a person drinks one cup, he is like a lamb, modest and meek. When he drinks two cups, he becomes mighty as a lion and begins to speak with pride, saying:Who compares with me! As soon as he drinks three or four cups he becomes a monkey, dancing and frolicking and profaning his mouth, and knowing not what he does. When he becomes drunk, he becomes a pig, dirtied by mud and wallowing in filth.

(Midrash Tanchuma)

36 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Am I Too Fat?

BY PAM MORITZ bid, anorexia or bulimia.” “Yes, I know,” this teacher responded I was speaking with a Torah scholar without hesitation. “Do you know how and seasoned teacher of seminary girls in many girls vomit now? And they say, Jerusalem about my lecture series on ‘It’s only once a day, or only a few times how to eat healthy without dieting. She a week,’ so they convince themselves responded with, “We can’t have you it’s OK. I know it’s terrible, but what can speak here. The girls need to lose weight I do?” or they’ll never get a shidduch.” “Excuse me?” “You and I know that it isn’t right, but these girls want to get married, and they If your daughters hear know that if they’re a size 14 or bigger, they’ll never get a shidduch. You can’t tell you talking about how them not to diet.” “But dieting is unhealthy,” I responded. fat you look or how “Ninety-five percent of people who diet gain back the weight, usually even more. much weight you need There are ways to learn to eat when hungry and stop when satisfied, and to have to lose, they will a healthy relationship with food—while maintaining a normal, healthy weight.” mimic you. “Yes, but will they lose weight quickly if they do that? They’re under tremendous pressure to be thin. They’re too desperate, and they need to get married.” And still I was unable to convince her I felt defeated. How could I help these that these young women need to hear a young girls if their teacher—their mentor different message. I was shocked and out- and role model—wasn’t willing to listen? raged that this teacher would prefer to I tried again. “Please realize that eating ignore a girl’s self-induced vomiting disorders are on the rise. Girls in semi- instead of trying to help her. nary often become so obsessed with What can we do? How can we change wanting to be thin or stay thin that they the system so that our daughters love the endanger themselves with chronic dieting, closet eating, and sometimes, G-d for- Continued on Page 38

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 37 Matchmaker to lose weight?” I hear you counter.) The Continued from Page 37 truth is that speaking badly about yourself is not only lashon ha’ra, it greatly body that the Creator of the Universe affects those around you. If your daugh- designed for each one of them? So that ters hear you talking about how fat you they are not plagued with self-doubt look or how much weight you need to about their appearance? And so that they lose, they will think it is normal—that develop healthy eating habits early on, this is how they’re supposed to behave. when marriage means playing dress-up in They will also mimic you, saying and the basement with their dolls? believing the same things, whether true Here are some suggestions: or not. Go to any Jewish elementary • Stop dieting. (“What?! How can I school, even the most religious school in stop dieting when I have so much your community (where you might weight to lose?” I hear you respond.) The assume this doesn’t happen), and listen in truth is that diets are dangerous. Yo-yo on a typical fifth-grade (or even some dieting is the repeated losing and gain- fourth-grade) girls’ class. Most of these ing of weight from dieting (because 95 ten-year-olds (and younger) will talk percent of dieters gain back the weight about how they need to be on a diet, how and then try again). It is bad for your fat they are, or how many calories are in health. It weakens the immune system their snack. It is constant and it is detri- and puts you at greater risk for heart dis- mental—this kind of talk sows the seeds ease. Diets are dangerous because the of an eating disorder. thought processes of a frequent dieter • Recognize your internal signals of overlap with those with an eating disor- hunger and satisfaction—and then lis- der. Thoughts like, “If only I didn’t have ten to them. In other words, trust your to be tempted by any food at all,” or “I body. (“But I don’t have internal sig- must work out in order to burn off the nals!” and “I can’t trust myself!” I hear extra calories I consumed,” or “I’ll just you object.) We are all born with inter- skip a couple of meals and that’ll be OK.” nal signs that tell us when we’re hungry In fact, two-thirds of all new eating-dis- or when we’ve eaten enough. Pay close order patients have dieted only moder- attention and be sure to eat when you’re ately in their lives. And if you diet, your feeling empty and not before. If you eat risk of developing an eating disorder is when you’re not hungry, that’s overeat- five times as great. Diets are dangerous ing and it leads to obesity. By the same because they destroy a woman’s self- token, pay attention to when your body image, making her think she’s a failure begins to feel full, and then be sure to for not keeping off the weight or stick- stop. Not because your plate has been ing with the regimen. cleared, not because you feel stuffed, • Stop berating your figure in front of not because the bag of chips is empty. others, especially your children. (“But Stop eating when your body feels com- what if I look fat? Why can’t I say I need fortable. (Rambam recommends that we

38 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

eat until we’re about three-quarters full, and you’ve made an exercise routine that and sizes. I’ve seen fat boys, skinny boys, doesn’t work. Obsessing over weight giving us enough energy to move com- does not interfere with much, doesn’t tall boys, and short boys. And I’ve seen doesn’t work. A single girl with obsessive fortably.) Try doing this at least once a cost loads of money, is easy on the joints, girls just the same. I’ve also seen hand- weight concerns and eating issues (and day; then try it twice a day, then three and won’t make you sweat all that much. some young men get married, and with- possibly an eating disorder) will most def- times, until it becomes habit. The truth is—and I am speaking from in a couple of years begin balding or put- initely bring these into her marriage. • Get some good information on experience here—people who hate to ting on pounds. I’ve seen skinny young How could any unhealthy habit be bene- proper nutrition and follow it. (“I know sweat and begin exercising come to love women get married, and within a couple ficial to a new marriage, which by itself is I should, but I love the greasy food I’ve it. Sweating and working out feels really of years look much heavier. Looks can a difficult endeavor? How could it be ben- always eaten,” I hear you sheepishly good once you train yourself. (and do) change. Please remind these eficial to a pregnancy? I have witnessed admit.) How many grams of fat should • Tell your sons and brothers to look young men that marriage is about the an Orthodox pregnant woman faint from you eat in a day? Do you even know? past dress size. (“But they want to be long haul, about going through life’s tri- hunger, because she was too nervous And how much do you actually con- attracted to the woman they’re dating,” als and tribulations, and any prospective about gaining weight and was refraining sume? I’ve sat down with people who from eating. eat a day-and-a-half’s worth of fat at one And to that seasoned teacher and to meal. Do they have a conscious aware- you, dear reader, let me remind you: ness of what they’re putting into their “V’nishmartem me’od lenafshoseichem.” bodies? I’ve seen people go through a If girls were to tell their shadchan Guard your health—eat when hungry, eat whole day and consume foods rife with healthy, and exercise. Then work on your chemicals and preservatives, with nary a that they only wanted to date boys middos and try to make the world a better gram of fiber or nutrient. Do they truly place, and try to find a spouse who does understand the damage they’re doing? the same. These things are much more Read good nutrition books and start who had six-pack abs, wouldn’t important than being a size 14. O making small changes in what you eat. Pamela Moritz is the founder of Worth the Keep at it, changing one thing every they be considered shallow? Weight , a program dedicated to healthy eating, week or two. This way you don’t shock healthy™ lifestyle, and positive self-image. She has recently moved to Chashmonaim, Israel. To your system—either physically or psy- contact her about lecturing in your community, e- chologically. mail her at [email protected]. • That’s right, folks: exercise! (And here I usually get the most protest: “I just you explain.) Since when is it acceptable partner should be kind, gentle, generous, don’t have time,” or “I hate it when I to dictate a woman’s size? If girls were to and supportive. When a married couple sweat,” or simply, “I hate exercise.”) First tell their friendly neighborhood shadchan faces unemployment, sickness, or other Remember that article? of all, studies show that people who that they only wanted to date boys who hardship, no man will say to himself, exercise are no less busy than those who had six-pack abs, or who could bench 180 “My wife is falling apart and I can’t Visit our archive section don’t; but they’ve prioritized exercise so pounds and run a 5.5-minute mile, would- depend on her, but at least she’s skinny.” and find any issue of the it becomes an essential part of their day. n’t they be considered shallow and not Most unfortunately for the young So I don’t buy the “I don’t have time” marriage material? Why aren’t girls asking women at the seminary where I visited, 5 Towns Jewish Times excuse. Take 10 minutes—that’s it, just 10 the shadchan for these criteria? Perhaps if the message from their very own teacher minutes—and walk around your block. they did, the Orthodox community would and community is clear: diet or stay sin- online @ Do 10 minutes every single day for a stop allowing boys to make equally ludi- gle, even though only five percent of you www.5TJT.com month, and then move up to 15. After crous requests. will succeed. another three weeks get to 20, stay there, Girls, just like boys, come in all shapes Diets don’t work. Low self-esteem

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 39 Looking For A Parental Roadmap

BY CHASSIA BOCZKO, achieve as a student in the classroom. PSY.D This score involves uncovering how well a child processes, reasons, and uses infor- With the winding turns of the new mation, without the consideration of a school year under way, it’s hard not to school-based skills set. think about last year’s journey: a barrage Uncovering a child’s learning poten- of phone calls from school, poor grades, tial: Achievement and building blocks. and your child’s progressively worse The second step in developing a roadmap mood and behavior at home. Coupled includes assessment of the actual learn- with a few bumps from the social and ing processes. A child’s capabilities in behavioral demands of summer, you and learning, organizing, and retaining infor- your spouse cannot help thinking about mation within the academic areas of the trajectory of this year. Will things go reading, writing, and math can be estab- differently for my child? Will my child stop lished based on data collected from a being considered “lazy,” “shy,” “uninterest- population of same-age or grade-level ed,” or “disrespectful”? Will my child’s peers. When a particular problem area classroom be supportive of him/her? Will has been identified, such as in reading, my child’s maturity be on par with his/her assessment of the discrete areas of the

The subjective involvement between an evaluator and a child is relevant to gaining clarity about a child’s inner experience.

peers? Did I place my child in the right subject matter, such as decoding, sight class, in the right school? vocabulary, and reading comprehension, Without being able to look at the allows for a comprehensive picture of the inner workings of a child’s mind, how relevant learning functions. does a parent obtain a “roadmap” when a Assessment also involves evaluation of child has social, academic, or emotional the “executive functions,” a fancy term difficulties? What can a parent do to help for the processes that impact upon organ- a child who does not consistently follow ization, planning, paying attention, the rules of the classroom, refuses to remembering details, and strategizing. A engage in lessons, has difficulties with weakness in this area affects a child’s reading, math, or writing, acts like the capability to transition from one activity “class clown” or “class bully,” does not to the next, to monitor his or her body hand in homework, fails tests, or refuses and possessions effectively, to control to go to and participate in class? impulses, and to follow directions. Several factors could be impacting If there is a significant difference upon a child’s journey. In order to identi- between the cognitive capabilities of a fy why a child is struggling, it is essential child and the degree to which he or she is to identify what the bumps are and locate able to learn and produce effectively, this where and how these make it difficult for is an indication of a learning issue. the child to learn consistently, be success- Recognition of a difficulty requires ful with other children, and function exploring where in the learning process effectively at home. the glitch lies and identifying the factors Learning about a child’s profile of that do not allow learning to take place strengths and weaknesses allows parents effectively. to recognize what is impeding the child Uncovering a child’s social and emo- from being successful while uncovering tional functioning: Focusing on the with- the avenues that the child has for remov- in and without. The third part of the ing these obstacles. A child’s strengths are roadmap is developing an understanding the tools for addressing areas of weak- of the emotional components that play a ness at school, with friends, and at home. role in a child’s experience. This involves While these areas may seem unrelated, assessing who a child is emotionally, how the way a child processes information he or she views the world, his or her expe- extends to all areas of learning and prob- rience within the world, and how he or lem-solving, both inside and outside the she copes with these experiences. classroom. Included in this assessment is the degree Uncovering a child’s intelligence: to which a child relates to his or her “Brainpower.” When a child is struggling peers, how a child handles frustration, in school, the first step in developing a and the way in which a child interprets parental roadmap is gaining an under- the intentions of others. standing of the child’s cognitive capabili- Assessment of the severity, frequency, ties. An “intelligence quotient,” or IQ and conditions of certain behaviors is help- score, provides a standard of a child’s ful in uncovering the “emotional interfer- “brainpower,” which can be used to esti- ence” which prevents a child’s ability to mate what the child would be able to take in information and react accordingly. 40 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Uncovering a child’s experience: A personal touch. A fourth part of the roadmap involves the evaluator’s one-on-one experience with the child. Information gath- ered through observation allows for a realistic perspective on the child’s related- ness, attention, willingness, motivation, and behavioral control. For example, the evaluator takes note of how well a child perseveres in the face of more challenging tasks and the degree to which the child needs to be refocused or rewarded in order to complete his or her work. These observations are then used to help determine a child’s work habits, social capabilities, and behavioral control during work and social situations. The subjective experience between evaluator and child involves understanding how a child thinks about a question, how he or she derives the wrong answers, and under what conditions the child loses focus or becomes resistant to attempting an answer. Thus, the subjective involvement between an evaluator and a child is relevant to gaining clarity about a child’s inner experience, such as his or her thought processes, motivation, and reasoning of information, and his or her external experience, such as social skills, attention, and behavior. The road in raising a child is full of pot- holes, bumps, winding turns, and block- ades. A carefully crafted roadmap can be instrumental in helping parents navigate this journey with a better handle on how to identify and face the obstacles. Assessing a child’s learning, social skill, and emotional functioning can significantly improve parental understanding and direct the parents’ support. Tailoring support to fit the needs of a child helps nurture the child in reaching his or her greatest heights. O

Chassia Boczko, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist who maintains a private practice in Woodmere that services children, adolescents, and their families. She specializes in neuropsychological evaluation, individual psychotherapy, social skill groups, shadow training, and parent and school consultation. Dr. Boczko co-founded the Shadow Training Institute (STI), an educational center that provides training, referral services, and certification for shadow teachers. For further information or to speak with Dr. Boczko, please call 516-792-6311 or e-mail [email protected].

Submit your Five Towns Events/ News for the Next Issue by 5:00 P.M. Monday. Send e-mail to: [email protected]

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 41 investing in some sort of staging prior from pets, usually cats and dogs, and to placing a house on the market always homeowners who have lived with them makes you money. so long that they no longer smell the Many of the basics that were empha- odors that have permeated throughout sized in this article were similar to what we as real-estate professionals already highlight when discussing staging, such as making sure that all system repairs, both small and large, are taken care of— Spend at least 1% of Israel And America as well as painting and maintenance your anticipated sales issues promoting the overall care and good presentation of a home. price and, if done Both Stress Staging What I liked, though, was how the article drew on ideas that are as old as properly, this would Preparing a house for sale on the real- estate market. time in regard to real-estate selling but estate market is a subject I have The writer made a determination have been somewhat put on a back burn- bring you 10% back on addressed more than once, but boy was I that in the Israeli real-estate market, you er here, mostly because of time con- your investment. surprised as I opened up an Israeli news- had to spend at least 1% of your antici- straints. For example, having cookies or paper (while vacationing in Israel) to find pated sales price and, if done properly, bread baking in the oven when buyers a very detailed article talking about stag- this would bring you 10% back on your come in to look at your home, so the ing and how it is being used and should investment. Obviously in our market- smells are inviting and allow a prospec- be used when selling an apartment or place this might or might not work, tive buyer to feel, “Mmm, how good it the house from these family treasures. house in Israel. depending on what needed to be done, would be to live this house” or “Wow, Unfortunately, buyers coming into such I guess the main shocker was the sud- but I did think it was a good gauge in this is the kind of house I would like to homes usually think only of how they den realization that this was a subject general to start with. Although I have live in—warm and cuddly!” will have to live with these odors if they that was considered so important in sell- never calculated the return on any stag- Ironically, the writer went from feeling purchase those homes and never look ing real estate in Israel and not just some- ing investment to actual percentages or good with baking smells to the bane of beyond this. thing we stress in the American real- dollar figures, there is no doubt that the real-estate broker—houses smelling It was apparent from this article that in both countries, preparing your house for resale means also thinking a little outside the box. Your lifestyle may not be the one that the potential buyer is looking for, and therefore presenting a picture of a place in which any lifestyle would find itself comfortable and happy is what staging is all about. O

Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and is a licensed real-estate broker and a licensed N.Y.S. mortgage broker with over 20 years of experience, offering full-service residential and commercial real-estate services (Anessa V Cohen Realty) and mortgaging services (First Meridian Mortgage) in the Five Towns and throughout the tri-state area. She can be reached at 516-569-5007 or via her website, www.AVCrealty.com. Readers are encouraged to send questions or comments to [email protected].

And Noach built an altar to G-d (Bereishis 8:20)

The location of the Altar [in the Holy Temple] is very exactly defined, and is never to be changed… It is a commonly-held tradition that the place where David and Solomon built the Altar on the threshing floor of Arona, is the very place where Avraham built an altar and bound Isaac upon it; this is where Noach built [an altar] when he came out from the ark; this is where Kayin and Hevel brought their offerings; this is where Adam the First Man offered a korban when he was created—and it is from [the earth of] this place that he was created.Thus the Sages have said: Man was formed from the place of his atonement. (Rambam)

42 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES could, and then rely on the miracle to fill safety net below to catch him. in the rest. Somewhere in the course of circus his- Operating principle in our lives. This tory, the net was eliminated. Now, the acro- concept is the operating principle for our bat was asked to walk the same distance lives. We are obligated to take this world and perform the same feats, but with one very seriously, all the while knowing that distinction: if he were to fall, there would Hashem is the One who controls every- be nothing there to catch him. thing. We are obligated to work very dili- Imagine the electricity in the air the gently at earning a living, knowing that first time that act was performed! There the exact amount of money we are to was the tightrope walker, doing the same The Shmuz On make that year was set on Rosh act that he’d performed thousands of Hashanah. We are obligated to seek out times before, but now one slip, one mis- medical help—not just any doctor, but step, and he’d fall to his death on the con- The Parashah the best that is available to us—all the crete below. No matter how many times while knowing that our health and well- he’d walked the high wire before, this being are completely in Hashem’s hands. time was different. He was galvanized by Bitachon And Effort: obvious that it would not be possible for Our hishtadlus (our efforts) and our bita- the excitement, exhilarated by the danger. Finding The Balance all of the animals in the world to fit into chon (our trust in Hashem) have to be bal- That is an apt parable to our hishtadlus. B Y R’ BEN TZION SHAFIER such a small area. anced. A person must use the derech hateva, We have to go about life like that Noach was commanded to gather up acting as if his efforts will determine the tightrope walker, taking our efforts very Hashem appeared to Noach and told every species of living creature—from the outcome, all the while knowing that every- seriously, and acting as if the outcome is him that the world had turned to wicked gorillas swinging in the trees to the cows thing is entirely controlled by Hashem. completely dependent upon them. Our ways, and it was to be destroyed by a del- eating the grass, from the birds flying in But finding the balance between prop- attitude has to be, “If I don’t put in the uge. Hashem commanded Noach to build the sky to the reptiles creeping on the er hishtadlus and bitachon is very diffi- adequate exertion I will fail and fall to the a teivah so that he and his family would ground. Each was to be represented on cult. Invariably, we either put too much concrete below.” All the while, though, we be saved. the teivah. So many animals could not stock in our efforts, our business acumen, must know that there is a safety net. The Torah lays out the dimensions of possibly fit into so small a craft. Even 50 and our abilities to get things done… or Hashem is there to help and support us, the Ark in exact detail: the length, the such tayvahs couldn’t house all the ani- we act irresponsibly in our hishtadlus, and even more, Hashem completely height, the width, and the material it was mals in existence, let alone the food and saying, “Hashem will provide,” even directs every action in our lives. This is the to be made from. The commentaries ask: supplies needed to support them for though we haven’t put in adequate effort. proper balance that we must strike why do we need to know the exact almost a year’s time. The proper balance can be better under- between putting in our own efforts and dimension of the Ark that Noach built? And so, Rabbenu Bachya explains that stood with a mashal. trusting in Hashem’s close involvement. O All the animals couldn’t possibly fit we are being taught a significant concept: Walking the tightrope. When the into the teivah. Rabbenu Bachya answers Man must act in the “derech hateva,” the tightrope walk was first introduced to the For more on this topic please listen to Shmuz that the Torah delineated the size of the ways of the world. Man is commanded to circus, it was an exciting act to watch. A #51–Bitachon and Hishtadlus: Finding the teivah to teach us a lesson. Assuming that do that which is in his power, and only highly skilled acrobat would perform Balance. an amah is a measurement of approxi- when he has exhausted all his means, is devilishly frightening dance steps while The Shmuz, an engaging and motivating Torah lecture that deals with real-life issues, is available mately two feet, the entire construction he allowed to rely on a miracle. Noach walking on a thin wire suspended high free at www.TheShmuz.com. The Shmuz on the was not large: 600 feet long, 100 feet couldn’t possibly have built a vessel large up in the air. However, everyone knew Parsha book, a compilation on all of Chumash, and the newly released Shmuz On Life, are now wide, and 60 feet tall. When we put those enough to house all living creatures. Yet that the danger was limited. Even if the available for purchase in your local sefarim store dimensions into perspective, it becomes he was commanded to do as much as he performer slipped, there was always a and at TheShmuz.com.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 43 Sunken Treasure

B Y RABBI MEIR ORLIAN BUSINESS HALACHA INSTITUTE

Although it was already fall, the sun clung tenaciously in the sky and the weather remained warm. “It’s supposed to be sunny tomorrow,” Mr. Bentzion Gluck said to his family on Motzaei Shabbos. “Let’s have a family outing to the bay and ride in the motorboat.” In the morning, the family headed to the bay and piled into the boat. “Make sure to put on life vests,” Mrs. Gluck instructed them. The waves were somewhat higher than usual, which would make the ride a little more exciting. “There’s going to be a lot of spray,” Mr. Gluck warned his family. “Put all your valuables in this waterproof bag, so that they won’t get wet.” He passed the bag around and they put in their wallets, cameras, MP3 players, and Mrs. Gluck’s pocketbook. Mr. Gluck revved the engine and set out into the bay. The family squealed with delight as the boat rose and fell over the crest of the waves. After 20 minutes of straight runs, one of the children asked, “How about making figure eights?” “Sure!” said Mr. Gluck. He guided the boat in a lazy figure eight. Then he started making tighter and tighter eights. “Hang on!” he yelled as the turns became sharper and sharper, and the boat began to tilt heavily. A powerful wave hit the boat broadside just as it heaved into the turn. The combined effect of the sharp turn and the wave capsized the boat, tossing the occupants and their belongings into the water! One by one, the family splut- tered up to the surface and tried to grasp the emergency oars that were floating nearby. The boat slowly began filling with water, while the waterproof bag slid below the surface and disappeared. Nearby boats came over to help. Someone tossed Mr. Gluck a bucket and he managed to bail enough water out of the boat to keep it afloat. “I’ll take the rest of the family back,” offered another boater. “You drive your boat alongside mine.” “At least we’re all OK,” said Mr. Gluck in a subdued voice when they returned to the dock. “Maybe someone will even find the bag.” “I certainly hope so,” said Mrs. Gluck. “My diamond earrings were in there and it will be a big loss.” 44 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES “I’ll put up a sign in the marina,” said Mr. Gluck. “Perhaps the bag will wash ashore.” Months later, Mr. Feiner was walking along the shore when he spotted a black bag. It was puckered and had clearly been in the water for a long time. “Let’s see what’s inside,” he said to himself. Mr. Feiner examined the contents. Water had seeped into the bag and had already faded the money and ruined the electronics. However, the plastic driver’s license clearly displayed the name and photo of Bentzion Gluck. The earrings were tarnished, but the diamonds sparkled as before. Mr. Feiner picked up the bag and headed home. As he walked, he wondered whether he was obligated to return the bag that had washed ashore. He e-mailed Rabbi Tzedek and asked for guidance. Rabbi Tzedek responded, “You are not absolutely required to return the lost bag with its contents, unless there is a local law to that effect. However, it is usually correct and proper to return it anyway.” NNN Rabbi Tzedek then explained: “The mitzvah of hashavas aveidah, returning lost items, applies when the item is lost from the owner, but is expected to be found by someone. However, when the item is completely lost—not only from the owner, but from everyone—you are not absolutely required to return it. This includes items lost in a flood or river. Even if the owner declared that he did not abandon hope of rescuing the item, his declaration is viewed as a futile statement. (C.M. 259:7) “Despite this, it is proper lifnim mishuras hadin (beyond the letter of the law) to return the lost item to its original owner. This is because a Jew is expected to do not only what is absolutely required, but also what is correct and proper. The beis din can even apply per- suasive measures to encourage the finder to act this way. (Pischei Teshuva 12:6) Furthermore, if the local law (dina d’malchusa) requires the finder to return the item, then halacha also obligates the finder to do so. (Rama 259:7) “However, since the reason for returning an item that is completely lost is based on doing what is correct and proper, and not on the letter of the law, it is somewhat subjective. Therefore, if the original owner is wealthy and the finder poor, he is not necessarily expected to return the item.” (259:5) O

This article is intended for learning purposes and not to be relied upon halacha l’maaseh. There are also issues of dina d’malchusa to consider in actual cases. Rabbi Meir Orlian is a faculty member of the Business Halacha Institute, which is headed by HaRav Chaim Kohn, shlita, a noted dayan. For questions regarding business halacha issues, or to bring a BHI lecturer to your business or shul, please call the confidential hotline at 877-845- 8455 or e-mail [email protected]. To receive BHI’s free newsletter, Business Weekly, send an e-mail to [email protected].

Deadline for Advertising in the Next Issue is Tuesday, October 12 at 5:00 P.M. Call 516-984-0079

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 45 46 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 47 5TJT Puzzle: Noach’s 7 Mitzvos

B Y YONI GLATT

Across 1. Decline 57. Musical monarchy for Anna? 4. Alit 59. AKA non-com in the military 9. Abba ben Yoseph bar Chama 61. Weights locale 13. Peter Parker’s aunt 62. Part of this puzzle’s theme 14. New disco band? 67. Not close 15. Addict 68. Gets rid of annoying animals 16. Part of this puzzle’s theme 69. Cairo to Jerusalem dir. 19. ___talgia 70. Traveled by horse 20. “___ the ramparts we watched…” 71. “I wish I ___ done that.” 21. Beer ingredient 72. You can find them around this 22. Pizzazz puzzle 24. Take part in a siyum 26. Buenos of Argentina Down 30. “Do not eat a ______from an 1. Bodily blockages animal.” Part of this puzzle’s theme 2. Jewish Oscar winner Martin 32. Gilui ___. Part of this puzzle’s 3. Week to sit some fantasy players Solution to appear next week. theme 4. Domed building part 33. MA time zone 5. Prettier, old styled 28. Long times 50. Actor who spent 34. Of golden color 6. Variety or Comfort 29. Place for Porky a lot of time in a bar 36. Whichever 7. Field position 31. Marine mammal 51. Remnant 37. Top 8. It’s often screamed in a cave 32. Albeit (var.) 52. AABB and ABAB 40. Part of this puzzle’s theme 9. Humongous country 35. What ___…? 53. Start of many Jewish/Israeli 42. Curvy road shape 10. Erev Tishah B’Av meal part 37. Mater preceder holidays 43. Angels on scoreboards? 11. Singer Bobby 38. Real founder of Christianity 55. “Somewhere in middle America” 44. Psychiatric city in Antwerp 12. Give a gun to 39. Sandwich of esteem? 58. Major kiruv org. 45. One who doesn’t share 17. Varieties 41. That guy 60. Abnormal sac 47. Part of this puzzle’s theme 18. Separates 42. Jeez! 62. Place for a cookie 49. Part of this puzzle’s theme 19. Org. for a Barber or Rice 44. Having to do with DNA 63. National Enquirer vehicle (Abbrev.) 54. Funny Woody 23. Israeli animal 46. Mixes 64. Jacob to Dan 55. ___rina (instrument) 25. Like some in Genesis 48. Want 65. City Southeast of Tel Aviv 56. Falls or Potatoes 27. Kind of rugs 66. Post-meal offer

48 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES pus offers academic excellence, personal- service agencies, including those also ized attention, small class size, and flexi- supported by UJA-Federation, is fraying ble course schedules. In 2006, a $45-mil- the safety net and is an attack on human lion Wellness, Recreation and Athletic services,” continued Ms. Leiner. “Despite Center was opened to serve the campus the economy, UJA-Federation has main- and the surrounding community. In 2007, tained core support for our human serv- the Cyber Café was launched, providing a ice agencies.” Unemployment and high-tech hot spot for students and facul- hunger are two core areas addressed by LIU’s Brooklyn Campus Ranked tion annually. ty members to meet and eat. O UJA-Federation funding. Third Safest U.S. College Campus Incidents reported to campus or local In addition to the working poor falling Recognizing Long Island University’s police—not criminal convictions—are UJA-Federation Of New York into poverty, over half of the more than impeccable security record, The Daily reflected in the data. Crime information Responds To Poverty Report 26,000 unemployed that Connect to Care Beast has ranked the Brooklyn campus was analyzed from 458 colleges. Nine Roberta Leiner is the managing direc- has served since it started in April 2009, are the third safest campus in the nation. The types of criminal incidents were account- tor of the UJA-Federation of New York new to significant financial stresses in this popular news and opinion website this ed for in safest and most dangerous Caring Commission, responsible for its continuing recession. These former wage- week released its list, which shows the schools lists. Burglary carried the lowest poverty initiatives and funding, and the earners are in the 36-55 age cohort, and Brooklyn campus as the safest in New value, with car theft weighed twice as innovative Connect to Care initiative that more than half had former (2008) incomes York City. much, assault or robbery six times, arson has served over 26,000 NY metro-area over $75,000. Not only has the UJA- The Daily Beast’s second-annual rank- 10 times, negligent manslaughter 20 unemployed and their families. She has Federation of New York Connect to Care ing of the safest and most dangerous col- times, and murder 40 times. reviewed the U.S. Census report on pover- program provided job counseling, legal leges in the U.S. can be found at The Brooklyn Campus had six reported ty released last week. “Not only do the services, and emotional counseling for the www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/ burglaries during the three-year time peri- numbers look bad, the turmoil on the unemployed and their families, since June 2010-09-14/50-safest-colleges/full. od researched by The Daily Beast, and streets and in families—particularly for 2009 UJA-Federation has distributed over “Our safety record puts our students— none of the other, more serious crimes. the working poor—is unabated and $500,000 in emergency financial grants to and particularly their parents—at ease The C.W. Post Campus of Long Island unending,” stated Ms. Leiner. “Counselors address imminent crises including utili- during their time on campus,” Brooklyn University also placed high on The Daily working with the poor are dealing with ties, insurance, food, auto/transportation, campus provost Gale Stevens Haynes Beast’s safest colleges ranking. The unemployment for families previously medical, and employment and child/elder said. “The special attention we give to Brookville, L.I., campus was tapped as the employed at marginal levels, increasing care related expenses. security allows our students, faculty, and 15th safest college or university in the U.S. share of health care costs, and pending Hunger is a rising problem and, as the entire LIU community to focus on The Brooklyn Campus is distinguished foreclosures, bankruptcy, debt and legal reported by UJA-Federation funded agen- the task at hand—delivering and receiv- by dynamic curricula reflecting the great problems, as well as the inordinate emo- cies, there has been an increase in the ing a quality education.” urban community it serves. Distinctive tional stress they face.” cost of food, the number of food pantry Researchers at The Daily Beast used the programs encompass the arts and media, Last week, UJA-Federation of New York, referrals, requests for food, and the num- three most recent calendar years of cam- the natural sciences, business, social poli- which supports a network of more than ber of younger and middle-class clientele. pus security and crime data available cy, urban education, the health profes- 100 beneficiary agencies and provides In its 2009-2010 program year which (2006-2008) to produce the rankings. The sions, and pharmacy, and include the wide support for all New Yorkers in the closed this summer, UJA-Federation pro- data was compiled and provided by the Ph.D. in clinical psychology, the Ph.D. in region (NYC, Westchester, and Long vided $278,000 poverty safety net grants U.S. Department of Education, as well as pharmaceutics, the D.P.T. in physical ther- Island), made an additional $100,000 grant for five programs to address food needs, the FBI and the Secret Service. The Clery apy, and the Pharm.D. in pharmacy. A to the Metropolitan Council on Jewish through which nearly 14,000 people Act mandates that all schools that receive vibrant urban oasis in downtown Poverty to support their food program. federal funding disclose crime informa- Brooklyn, this diverse and thriving cam- “The loss of public funding for social Continued on Page 50

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 49 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS what the Camp Nageela High Holiday For most of the children who are fortu- enthused with the chizuk they had gained Continued from Page 49 Retreat is all about. Bringing families nate to spend the summer in Camp from the experience and confident that together so they can grow together, keep- Nageela, Shabbos in camp is the absolute the tefillos of the Nageela family and all received food packages and meals, and an ing sholom bayis between parents and highlight. Shabbos at Nageela is not sim- of Klal Yisrael had been accepted by the additional $400,000 grant was made in children, and between spouses, while ply practiced; it is something that is felt. Heavenly Court. O fall 2009 to the Metropolitan Council on they change for the better. The joy and kedushah of all those experi- Jewish Poverty. NYC Food Bank reports One hundred seventy five people gath- encing Shabbos for the first time is some- MAY Wednesday Night Shiur that the number of NYC residents experi- ered at Camp Nageela this Rosh thing tangible that uplifts all those who As part of the ongoing community encing difficulty affording needed food Hashanah. These special guests were are blessed to be a part of it. The coincid- learning program, Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, had steadily increased to 3.1 million in treated to uplifting explanatory tefillos, ing of Shabbos with Motzaei Rosh Ph.D will be beginning an iyun shiur in 2007, 55 percent higher than in 2003. One delicious meals full of joyful singing and Hashanah this year presented a unique Masechta Kiddushin (from the beginning) in three metro-area seniors are classified dancing, and inspiring lectures delivered opportunity for parents to appreciate Wednesday evenings at 8:45 p.m. in the as “food insecure.” Fueled by rising unem- by renowned speakers. What is perhaps how special this day is for their children Mesivta Ateres Yaakov Bais Medrash, to be ployment and food prices, the number of the most astounding feature of this annu- in camp. At first watching in bewilder- followed by Ma’ariv at 9:45 p.m. Michael Americans on food stamps is over 40 mil- al event is the incredible ruach. A parent ment from their seats, many fathers soon Salzbank, the mesivta’s executive director lion, doubling during this recession. of three Nageela campers remarked, “I found themselves part of a human train, remarked, “We are delighted that Rabbi UJA-Federation of New York’s Connect have never been to a place where I saw so marching in and out of the building Yaffe can now offer this very popular to Care is a multiservice initiative to help much joy and spirituality combined so singing “I’m a Jew and I’m proud to be weekly shiur to the entire community.” O the Jewish community during a period of beautifully. I feel renewed, I feel like I one too!” Mothers were quickly drawn in enormous economic distress for New want to go home and just do more to the circle of girls dancing excitedly in Non-Profits Urged To Avoid Loss York City, Long Island, and Westchester. mitzvos.” His wife expressed similar senti- their own corner of the room. Ricky Of Tax-Exempt Status Operating through seven regional centers ments and noted, “My favorite moment Coffer, the head counselor of the Nageela Agudath Israel of America is urging based at regional Y’s, this comprehensive was seeing the yeshiva boys dancing with girls’ session exclaimed, “It’s like we never non-profit organizations to note that the program offers employment services, sup- my sons on their shoulders. Everyone in left camp at all!” After the meal, one of IRS has set October 15, 2010 as the final portive counseling, financial consulting, Nageela is so warm and accepting.” the girls remarked, “I can’t believe two deadline for all non-profit organizations pro bono legal services, spiritual care, and Indeed, all the guests shared similar feel- days passed by so fast. I don’t want to to file their annual report (on Form 990). loans for qualifying recipients, as well as ings of having spent the holiday as part of leave camp again!” Non-profits that have not made the filing referrals. Participating agencies include one big family. One mother commented At Havdallah, Rabbi Shenker, the direc- for the past three years will automatical- FEGS Employment Services, NYLAG Legal to me, “All of my relatives live in Israel, tor of JEP/Nageela, shared the story of a ly have their non-profit status revoked if Services, and NYLAG Financial Services. but we still get to spend Rosh Hashanah Nageela girl who, upon the conclusion of they do not meet that deadline. For more information about Connect to with our family in Nageela every year!” this past summer, decided she wanted to Under a law passed in 2006, all non- Care, call 1-877-852-6951 or visit Some of the local talent that con- go to yeshiva. Despite the numerous profit organizations that are recognized www.ujafedny.org/connect-to-care. O tributed to the event included Far obstacles that presented themselves, the as tax exempt by the IRS must file an Rockaway residents R’ Avraham Kay, ba’al girl struggled relentlessly and saw annual form 990 with the IRS to retain Rosh Hashanah At Camp Nageela tokeah, Yisroel Hecht, ba’al Shacharis, and tremendous siyata dishmaya—ultimately their non-profit status. Even small non- “He hated going to services on the food from Catering by Michael Schick as starting yeshiva just days before Rosh profits with less than $25,000 in income High Holidays. Now, not only does he well as Chap-A-Nosh and Gotta Getta Hashanah. Rabbi Shenker urged the are now required to file. The IRS has put come to the Camp Nageela retreat, he Bagel. In addition, many of the local volun- guests to focus on the kabalos that they together a list by state of organizations also goes to the services,” a mother of a teers who were in Camp Nageela during had made, to keep trying so that they too that have failed to file any sort of Form Camp Nageela camper confided in a staff the summer came to run the youth pro- will see siyata dishmaya. The guests left 990 since the law requiring them to file member, referring to her husband. That is gramming and create the electric ruach. with feelings of elation and relief, was passed three years ago. It can be

50 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES accessed at www.irs.gov, under “Charities & Non-Profits.” There are about 1,000 Jewish organizations in New York State alone on the list, including many fundraising organizations for yeshivos and other communal and tzedakah organizations. Many of these organizations can simply file a very short form either on-line or by paper. If, however, they do not file by October 15, their non-profit status will be revoked. This means that contributions to those organizations will no longer be tax deductible. Information on how to file the 990 can also be obtained directly from the IRS by calling 1-877-829-5500. Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel, executive vice president of Agudath Israel, called on all non-profits to comply with the new law. “It would indeed be a true shame,” he said, “if, for lack of sending a short post- card to the IRS before October 15, mosdos involved in helping our community would lose their tax-exempt status and their ability to solicit and collect charita- ble contributions.” O

Bayswater Thrift Sale, October 14 The Bayswater Jewish Center’s semi- annual Thrift Sale will take place on Thursday evening, October 14. at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday afternoon, October 17, at 12:00 noon; and Monday, October 18, at 4:00 p.m. New and slightly used merchan- dise, linens, clothes, shoes, kitchenware, electronics, bric-a-brac, costume jewelry, and a lot more will be for sale. The Bayswater Jewish Center is located at 2355 Healy Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. O

Displaced Persons Exhibit At Holocaust Center Displaced Persons Camps: Rebuilding Culture and Community in the Aftermath of World War II, an exhibit written and curated by Lillian Gewirtzman and designed and pro- duced by Marilyn Rabetz, is currently on display at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County. The exhibit was developed from the albums, memories, and reflections of former Displaced Persons. The center has opened its long-awaited permanent exhibit which uses photographs, arti- facts, and video to relate the events of the Holocaust to more recent genocides and acts of intolerance. The center, located at 100 Crescent Beach Road in Glen Cove, is open daily 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sundays 12:00-4:00 p.m. Suggested donation: $8 for adults and $4 for students to age 18 and seniors (65+). For information and directions call 516-571-8040, ext. 100 or visit www.holocaust-nassau.org. O

Israel And Iran: From Cyrus The Great To The Islamic Republic, October 31 As tension between Israel and Iran escalates and with speculation that Israel is considering a preemptive strike against Iran, a group of renowned scholars will convene at Yeshiva University for a one- day conference to examine “Israel and Iran: From Cyrus the Great to the Islamic Republic.” The conference, on Sunday, October 31, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Yeshiva University Museum, Center For Jewish

Continued on Page 52 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 51 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Jews in Zoroastrian Literature; Facing the Continued from Page 51 Music: The Role of Iranian Jews in Classical and Popular Persian Music; History, 15 West 16th Street, is sponsored Iran’s Jewish Agenda; The Iran Lobby?: by the YU Center for Israel Studies and Domestic Business Interests and U.S. the Rabbi Arthur Schneier Center For Foreign Policy Toward the Islamic International Relations, and cosponsored Republic; and (Islamist) Iran on the World by the Yeshiva University Museum, YU’s Stage: Motives, Methods, Goals and Sephardic Studies Program, and YU’s Implications. Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish For more information or to register for Studies. The program is free and open to the conference, visit www.yu.edu/cis. O the public. “Israel and Iran have a long cultural RememberNaama.org and political history that goes back thou- As the Yomim Tovim have passed and sands of years,” said Steven Fine, director the fall has finally set in, the summer of the Center for Israel Studies. “This con- seems to have been a very long time ago. ference will celebrate this history from It doesn’t require much effort, however, various perspectives and examine how— to remind ourselves of that beautiful day if at all—it informs and impacts on the at the beginning of summer vacation that current situation. This promises to be a turned so dark. The day when four-year- very insightful and thought-provoking old Naama Markovits, a’h, was tragically exchange.” taken from this world. The scholars participating in the con- In the weeks following her passing, ference include Yaakov Elman, profes- several shiurim were said in her memory sor of Judaic studies at Revel; Judith and several projects were begun. As a Goldstein, professor of anthropology at means to consolidate all of those efforts Vassar College; Aaron Koller, assistant into one user-friendly source, a website professor of Bible at Yeshiva College; was launched, www.remembernaama.org. Mahnaz Moazzami, associate research The website includes a brief biography, scholar at Columbia University; Evan downloadable shiurim, and articles writ- Resnick, assistant professor of political ten about Naama and the tragedy that science at Yeshiva College; Barry Rubin, befell her. professor at the Interdisciplinary Center The Noam Shabbos project employs in Herzliya, Israel; Daniel Tsadik, associ- the Sefer Shabbos Kodesh of Rav ate professor of Sephardic and Iranian Shimshon Pincus, zt’l, who describes the Studies at Revel; and Dalia Yashar-Poor, beauty of Shabbos and the opportunity professor at Harvard University. that it affords us to become closer to Some of the major topics that will be Hashem. There is a weekly newsletter addressed include Negotiating Empire: that includes a summary of the points Living Jewishly Under the Achaemenids made by Rav Pincus in that week’s sec- in Persia and Palestine; The Image of the tion, as well as some very relevant hala-

52 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

contact page and will be viewed only by the family. These thoughts and stories bring comfort to the family. Your Event… Simply Spectacular Participation in these projects is a zechus for Naama Chana a’h bas Yehuda Issur, and is a way for us to share the pain of such a tragedy. O

Photography Workshop By Devorie Zutler Devorie Zutler will be introducing a new and exciting Sunday program for girls as well as a photography workshop for women and teens. This eight week interactive workshop is being taught by noted portrait photographer Devorie Zutler. Devorie has specialized in children’s portraits for the past 15 years. Being as passionate about photogra- Naama Markovits, a’h phy as she is, Devorie has decided to take her photography to the next level. She has decided to share her love for Carefully selected ingredients, chos of Shabbos and insights into the spe- photography with others and help cial tefillos of Shabbos. teach girls, as well as women, how to Immaculate presentation, The Ne’imas Hachaim project uses a take better pictures. Attention to all details. standard lesson plan for a preschool cur- How did a person like Devorie go from riculum and applies the lessons to an adult portrait child photographer to photogra- This is what separates us audience. In this way we are able to learn phy teacher? Having four children of her from the rest. from the life of Naama, who passed away own, three of whom are girls who love to between nursery and kindergarten. A take pictures, she introduced a photogra- lk weekly newsletter describes that week’s phy workshop/Sunday program geared to lesson, including words of Chazal, and girls, grades 3-8, realizing that there is so practical examples that make it applicable. much about photography that she can NEW STAR You can register for these projects at teach children, all the while bringing out ﬁne catered events the website and you will receive the a child’s creativity and having a ton of fun newsletters via e-mail. The website also in the process. includes a memory book. Anyone who Many mothers called, excited about lk T T knew Naama or whose children knew her this novel and creative idea for their : 516 791.0100 : 718 891.8100 can upload pictures and stories. Any daughters, expressing their interest in a thoughts that are more personal can be CERTIFIED AND ENDORSED BY THE KEHILAH KASHRUS sent to the site administrator through the Continued on Page 54

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 53 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS week the girls will be given a fun photog- plans, so that they can refer back to every- Continued from Page 53 raphy “assignment”—to take a picture thing that they learned, whenever they based on what they have learned that wish. Each lesson is split up into two workshop like this. After many mothers week. The class will look at everyone’s parts: the first half focuses on the creative told Devorie that they wished there was a pictures the following week, and the aspects of photography; the second half photography workshop like this for child who takes the best picture will win focuses on the technical part of photogra- women, Devorie decided that it is time! a fantastic prize. Aside from the weekly phy; learning digital photography, and She created a whole new photography assignment, there will be many other introducing and “demystifying” many fea- workshop, geared to women of all ages. projects/contests that the girls will be tures on the camera. Older teens are also welcome. given throughout the eight weeks, excit- Please call or e-mail now to reserve a As Devorie described it, “The goal of ing things to take pictures of that they spot in the most exciting workshop out these workshops is to teach you how to would never have dreamed of on their there! Devorie Zutler, 718-421-0790, 917- think creatively, and teach fundamental own! Also planned is an exciting final 601-7777, [email protected]. O skills that will enable you to take better project. The winner will win a grand pictures as well as understand what prize. Each child will be given a beautiful Councilmember Brad Lander makes up a good picture. You will learn scrapbook. The girls will fill it with all the (D-39th) Hires Boro Park Liaison how to convey a feeling within a photo- pictures they have taken, decorated as And Opens Walk-In Office graph and will be given many different they wish. They will also receive a loose- The office of Councilmember Brad ideas on how to take better, different, and leaf filled with beautiful lesson plans. The Lander will now be operating a satellite more creative pictures.” girls will always be able to refer back to office in Boro Park, in order to better Every lesson is taught in a very visual all the exciting ideas that they learned. serve the constituents of the southern way, using a projector and a large screen. In the women’s workshop, every week portion of his district. The their neighborhood. I am very pleased The class will be shown many different the women will be given a fun photogra- Councilmember is also pleased to to have Gabriella joining my staff, and pictures to illustrate the various con- phy “assignment”—to take a picture announce the hiring of Gabriella to have arranged weekly office hours in cepts they are learning. They will see based on that week’s lesson. The class Friedlander as a part-time community Boro Park. I know that this will allow with their own eyes how these ideas in will review everyone’s pictures the fol- liaison who will be dedicated to serving me to better serve the residents of this photography really work. lowing week. Everyone will also receive a the constituents of Boro Park. neighborhood, and I hope that everyone In the girl’s Sunday program, every loose-leaf filled with beautiful lesson The Boro Park office hours will be held will take advantage of the opportunity at the Brooklyn Public Library branch to meet and speak with my staff on located at 1265 43rd Street off 13th Tuesday afternoons.” Avenue, every Tuesday from 3:00-5:00 Councilmember Lander also stressed p.m. During those hours, Boro Park resi- that he is very grateful to the branch man- dents are encouraged to come to stop by ager of the Boro Park Library, Sarah Weiss, the library and talk to Ms. Friedlander and to Linda Johnson, the Brooklyn directly about issues or concerns in the Public Library interim executive director neighborhood. No appointment is neces- for their cooperation and assistance. sary. The Councilman continues to wel- Prior to her work with come anyone to come visit his main dis- Councilmember Lander, Ms. Friedlander trict office, located at 456 5th Avenue on had been working as a software develop- the 3rd floor during other days of the er and analyst. She is also active in vari- week. Councilmember Lander’s district ous community organizations and volun- office phone is 718-499-1090. teers her time to visit Holocaust sur- In speaking about the new arrange- vivors. She holds an advanced business ment, Councilmember Lander said that degree from Touro College. “Council District 39 covers a wide geo- City Council District 39 covers approx- graphical area with a diverse popula- imately a third of Boro Park, from 37th tion, from Cobble Hill in the north all Street to 53rd Street, in between 11th and the way to Boro Park and Kensington in 14th Avenues. To determine your Council the south. In order to better accommo- representative visit http://council.nyc.gov/ date our constituents from the south- html/members/members.shtml. O ernmost parts of the district, we felt it was necessary to have a presence in Continued on Page 57

54 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 55 56 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 54 “Teenage Witness: The Fanya Heller Story” At Museum Of Jewish Heritage, October 20 On Wednesday, October 20 at 7:00 p.m., Holocaust survivor Fanya Heller will screen and discuss the powerful documentary about her life, Teenage Witness: The Fanya Heller Story, at the Museum of Jewish Heritage–A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. The film, which is narrated by Richard Gere and directed by Ed Wiseman, was part of WNET’s 2010 Holocaust programming. Tickets are free with suggested donation and are available online at www.mjhnyc.org or by calling the museum box office at 646-437-4202. In this raw and emotional look at survival, Holocaust survivor Fanya Heller shares her unique story with inner city teenagers at the Pacific High School in Brooklyn. Sharing a bond of harsh life experiences such as hunger, fear, and poverty, these young people relate to the choices that Heller was forced to make and are moved by the unexpected love she found in the midst of horror and chaos. They are inspired by her encouragement that they, too, can survive even the worst of circumstances and remain a positive person, like Fanya. Only through the kindness of a Polish peasant did Fanya and her parents and brother survive—hidden beneath a chicken coop for two and a half years. The film explores Fanya’s relationship with a Ukrainian sol- dier, a Nazi collaborator, who also helped to save her family from certain death. And how, in the end, this relationship leaves Fanya with questions she continues to struggle with to this day. “What is most important to me about making this film,” says Fanya, “is that this is another medium of reaching people— particularly the younger generations—who must be exposed to lessons in courage and tolerance, as well as to the dangers of prejudice and baseless hatred.” Fanya Gottesfeld Heller was born in Ukraine in 1924 and, despite starvation, disease, and constant danger of arrest and exe- cution by the Nazis, survived the Holocaust along with her family. A trustee of the museum, she relates her experiences through her book and as a lecturer in the museum’s speakers bureau. Her book, Love in a World of Sorrow, now in its third printing, has become an important teaching resource and has been placed on the curriculum of courses at Princeton University, Yale University, and at Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Israel.

Continued on Page 58 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 57 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS initiated talks emanating from our loving Caplan family in 2005, 12 years later in Lechem during the time of the British Continued from Page 57 matriarch, Ima Rachel. RCRF has adopted Beit Bnei Rachel. HaRav Mayer Horowitz occupation. Geula Cohen noted that Rav the theme of derech eretz as an ongoing lit candles remembering his esteemed Aryeh couldn’t take us out of prison, but For the past 11 years, she has been the bene- effort to develop the middos of Bnei parents. He explained that Rosh Chodesh brought freedom to us. One of his greatest factress of an important annual Holocaust Rachel and bring Torah, truth, unity, is a festival for women today because of traits was respect for people in need, even symposium for teachers at the Museum. empathy, and love to the world. men’s sin with the golden calf. Women those with weaker observance. He never Mrs. Heller is the recipient of the Louis E. Lavan had other plans for Yaakov and should not sew or do heavy work on Rosh belittled; he saw greatness in their little Yavner Citizen Award, presented annually Rachel, who waited seven years to actual- Chodesh. In the end of days, it will be a acts, influencing them to advance in the by the New York Board of Regents in recog- ize their love. Both sisters, Rachel and festival for both men and women when right derech. He saw Rochel Imeinu as a nition of outstanding contributions to Leah, were terrified of being betrothed to all come to worship the L-rd. The kavod role model of caring, kindness, and a big teaching about the Holocaust and other Eisav, who lusted, terrorized, and killed. shown for his parents and Torah are pre- heart. She represented true derech eretz. violations of human rights. Mrs. Heller Both sisters were part of Hashem’s plan liminaries of derech eretz. The great storyteller Rabbi Hanoch obtained a B.A. and an M.A. in psychology for creation. In unity, the four wives of Another teacher, Rebbetzin Tziporah Teller, who just released his new book, from the New School for Social Research Yaakov created the 12 tribes of Israel and Heller, spoke on “Derech Eretz, Personal Too Beautiful chose the topic “Derech and honorary degrees from Yeshiva were mothers of the nation of Israel. Refinement.” As the world suffers from Eretz: Honorable Mentschen.” He said that University and Bar-Ilan University. O Yosef’s brothers were off the derech in “me-ism,” Rebbitzen Heller explained that little considerations matter. Being late their actions against him. But, it was G-d’s mitzvos make a difference, control limits, steals time. Writing thank-you notes Rachel’s Children plan for survival. As Hashem promised, and thus refine our eating, what one mkes a difference. Reclamation Foundation Rachel Imeinu was buried “on the way” to wears, and how one speaks and acts. Rabbi Yonason Alpren said that when Derech eretz in the merit of Rachel keep Bnei Rachel “on the derech.” Rav Benjamin Levin, grandson of “A you go to a kever, you don’t just go to cry Imeinu was the main theme of the On Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, HaRav Tzaddik in our Time,” participated in the and pray, you go to find the “straight extravaganza of lectures in Beit Bnei Mayer Horowitz, the Bostoner Rebbe of Rosh Chodesh Elul Torah reading and sho- path,” to contemplate the way to wake Rachel, the majority RCRF Jewish owned Har Nof, was the MC when RCRF dedicat- far blowing, remembering when we could up, be straight with Torah application. property in the Walled Rachel Tomb ed a sefer Torah on the wide open streets not come to Kever Rachel during the Caring, sharing, working, striving, persis- Complex. As the Chofetz Chaim inspired of Beis Lechem in 1998, which is housed Jordanian occupation as well as when we tency, and endurance were some of the shemiras halashon seminars around the in Kever Rachel until this day. The second reclaimed it in 1967. He spoke of when his traits of Rachel and her descendants. world for a cure-all, Rachel’s Children sefer Torah was dedicated through the grandfather Reb Aryeh Levin, a’h, walked Writing Contest. Submit Rachel sto- Reclamation Foundation, a 501(c)(3), has Sefer Torah Recycling Network by the to visit the woman prisoners in Beis ries, poems, and artwork. The theme is Derech Eretz in the Merit of Rachel Imeinu. The deadline is October 10, 2010. Book Your Simchas. RCRF invites you to hold simchas in its large reception center and beit medrash. 16th Annual NYCitywide Commem- oration of the Yahrzeit of Rachel Imeinu. After an inspiring summer in Beit Bnei Rachel, RCRF announces its 16th Annual Commemoration of the Yahrzeit of Rachel Imeinu. Rabbi David Fohrman will be the keynote speaker. NYS Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz will receive the Community Leadership Award. Lev and Roza Rivkin will receive the Rachel Imeinu Chesed Award. Rabbi Shimon Golding will receive the Community Service Award. Actualist and Writing Contest Awards will be presented by Malky Grunwald, who celebrated the first bas mitzvah at Beit Bnei Rachel. A sumptuous buffet dinner will be catered by New Star Caterers. This inspiring event is scheduled to be held on 11 Mar-Cheshvan 5771, Monday evening October 18, at the Manhattan Beach Jewish Center, 60 West End Avenue in Brooklyn, NY 11235. Visit www.theracheltear.blogspot.com, e-mail [email protected], or call 718- 648-2610 or 212-470-0967 for more. O

NBN And Jewish Agency Conduct Aliyah Career Fairs In an effort to make North American Jews more aware of the wide range of opportunities that the strong Israeli job market has to offer new immigrants to Israel, Nefesh B’Nefesh and the Jewish Agency for Israel are conducting career- focused aliyah fairs in four major cities across North America. The events will be held between October 24 and October 31 in New York, Miami, Baltimore, and Toronto, and are expected to attract over 1,200 people. The October fairs, which will focus on helping olim find jobs and build successful careers in Israel, will feature seminars on ‘Finding a Job in Israel’, ‘The Israeli Job Market’, and ‘Understanding the Israeli Work Culture,’ among others. A number of industry-focused seminars will also be presented by Nefesh B’Nefesh staff and professionals from various fields, covering a wide range of professions, including high- tech, marketing, education, medicine, law, 58 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES accounting, and the non-profit sector. olim to get a step ahead in their job will be at the fairs and will also be avail- every five children! In addition, the Participants will also have the oppor- search in Israel,” said Barry Spielman, able for personal aliyah meetings in each National Institutes of Health report their tunity to meet with aliyah career consult- head of the Jewish Agency’s North city immediately after. current research which indicates that ants and attend general aliyah informa- America aliyah delegation, who will be at The October fairs will be followed by close to 90% of children diagnosed with tional seminars on topics such as the fairs and lead a seminar on the Israeli additional aliyah events in December in reading problems are actually dyslexic. Choosing a Community, Financial high-tech sector, where he worked for Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Most of these children go undiagnosed Planning, and Navigating the Israeli over a decade. “In partnering with Nefesh northern New Jersey. and often, sadly, unremediated. Education and Healthcare Systems. The B’Nefesh, we are bringing the best possi- For a full listing of programming and Ohr HaLimud, The Multi-Sensory New York fair will feature a special net- ble resources to the issue of employment to register for an event visit Learning Center, is pleased to present its working seminar geared towards the which is critical to successful aliyah.” www.nbn.org.il/nbncal/main.php. O First Annual Conference on Language and many singles and young professionals The Aliyah Career Fair is part of Nefesh Learning For Professionals and Parents. residing in the area. B’Nefesh and the Jewish Agency’s expand- First Annual Conference On This conference is part of their ongoing “Finding a job in Israel is one of the key ed programming aimed at providing the Language And Learning For mission to educate and inform profes- factors for a successful transition into life most comprehensive aliyah information Professionals And Parents, sionals, parents, and the public about in Israel,” said Rachel Berger, director of and guidance to potential olim in order to October 24 dyslexia and language learning issues fac- employment for Nefesh B’Nefesh. help better prepare them for their aliyah. October is National Dyslexia ing children with normal intelligence. “Providing potential olim with a better In an effort to maximize the assistance Awareness Month. Although you may not The conference will be held on understanding of the Israeli job market offered, an Israeli job coach will attend realize it, the likelihood of that each of us Sunday, October 24, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. helps build their aliyah confidence and the New York fair to advise future olim knows or works with a dyslexic child is at Beth Jacob of Boro Park, 1371 46 Street preparedness and is vital for ensuring their about how to best go about finding a job very high. The International Dyslexia in Brooklyn. The program includes successful integration into Israeli life.” in Israel. Additionally, Jewish Agency Association Estimates that 15–20% of the “This is an opportunity for potential shlichim and Nefesh B’Nefesh aliyah staff population is dyslexic; that is one out of Continued on Page 60

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 59 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Their mission statement is simple. “We Continued from Page 59 believe that every child has the right and ability to learn to read.” O keynote speaker, Dr. Steven Larson, chief psychologist, learning disabilities unit, Chabad’s Simchat Beit HaShoevah State University of New York Optometric Have you ever wondered what it’s Center who will be discussing “Learning like to really celebrate Sukkos? Or what Disorders In Children.” In the afternoon, does Simchat Beit HaShoevah mean? Dr. Isabel Pascal, professor emeritus, Long Hundreds of people who joined Chabad Island University, will discuss “The Best of the Five Towns’s Simchat Beit Way To Read To Children.” The confer- Hashoevah celebration in Cedarhurst ence also includes afternoon workshops, Park on September 26 experienced a a continental breakfast, and a buffet joyous Sukkos sensation. lunch. The cost is $95 per person. For Men, women, and children enjoyed reservations and information please con- dancing to the exciting music provided tact Mrs. Leah David, MS, founder and by Azamra DJ. Wide eyed children and executive director at 718-972-0170 or by adults were fascinated by the dangerous e-mail at [email protected]. fire baton stunts performed by the Ohr HaLimud, founded in 2003 is an Amazing Modern Gypsies, and were Orton-Gillingham Learning Center with intrigued as the performer became The young audience was awed by the performances. several programs dedicated to teaching “Bubble Boy.” children and young adults with The sukkah mobiles, portable sukkahs Dyslexia how to read. Through their perched atop pick-up trucks, greeted hun- and citrus fruit that are shaken after recit- girls school, afterschool tutoring pro- dreds of residents throughout the Five ing a blessing on Sukkot. The sukkah gram, and The Gruss Lipper Family Towns. Yeshiva students volunteered as mobile provided an opportunity to grab a Foundation Orton-Gillingham Teacher hosts to the many people who visited the bite to eat and to say the leishev basukkah Training Program, they have seen sukkah. The students explained how to blessing. This sukkah on wheels visited countless lives changed for the better. use the lulav and esrog, the palm branch the homebound and elderly. Many people

The Amazing Modern Gypsy gets the crowd fired up.

The Amazing Bubble Boy.

had the opportunity to bench lulav and esrog, some for the first time in their lives. A special thanks to the Village of Cedarhurst, the Auxiliary Police, Azamra DJ, and all of the Chabad supporters and volunteers who helped make this 16th annual celebration a phenomenal success. O

AMIT Chanukah Boutique, November 9 Vendors wanted for upcoming AMIT annual popular Chanukah Boutique Tuesday, November 9, 7:00–10:00 p.m. at JCC in West Hempstead (711 Dogwood Avenue). Please reserve ASAP as tables are filling up fast. E-mail [email protected] or call 516-565-0189 for more information. O

Continued on Page 81 60 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES K’lal Yisrael Mourns 8-Year-Old Boy Who Died In Brooklyn Fire BY FERN SIDMAN

October 4—Jews around the world are in a state of mourning after a horrific tragedy struck the Flatbush Jewish community on Wednesday evening, September 29, as a fire claimed the life of 8-year-old Avigdor Krasny on the night of Shemini Atzeres. The three-alarm blaze ripped through the second-floor apartment of Rabbi and Yaakov and Mrs. Chana Krasny at 1118 Avenue P, between East 12th Street and Coney Island Avenue, at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Rabbi Krasny heroically ran up the steps to the smoke-filled apartment and managed to rescue Shimon, Nosson Tzvi, Miriam, Yitchok Isaac, and Etel.

While sitting in the sukkah, the parents heard the desperate cries of their six children, ranging in age from 1 1/2 through 10, who were upstairs in bed. Immediately, Rabbi Krasny heroically ran up the steps to the smoke-filled apartment and managed to rescue 10-year-old Shimon, 7-year-old Nosson Tzvi, 5-year- old Miriam, 4-year-old Yitchok Isaac, and 1 1/2-year-old Etel, but couldn’t reach 8-year- old Avigdor, who was trying to escape the flames through a third-floor window. Firefighters finally rescued Avigdor, who died of severe smoke inhalation after his arrival at Coney Island Hospital. Fire Chief Michael Marone said the “flames were substantial and [Avigdor] was trapped in his bedroom. It was very tough to get him out because the flames were at the very top, which is where he was trapped.” The cause of the fire is still unknown, though many believe the blaze started in the kitchen. The surviving children were transferred to the burn unit at Staten Island University Hospital, where the youngest child, Etel, is still listed in critical condition. The 4-year-old, Nosson Tzvi, was transferred to Long Island Jewish Children’s Hospital on Sunday evening, where he remains on life support. Thousands of bereaved mourners attended the levayah for young Avigdor, z’l, which was held on Sunday, October 3, at the Bais Yisroel Torah Center (the shul of Rav Avigdor Miller, zt’l), where the Krasnys were dedicated congregants. Rabbi Krasny is a close talmid and acolyte of Rav Miller, zt’l, and an esteemed talmid chacham, y’rei Shamayim, and ba’al chesed who has also been a full-time member of the kollel at the Mirrer Yeshiva in Flatbush. The shul is now under the leadership of Rav Eliyahu Brog, a grand-

Continued on Page 67 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 61 The Passing Of Mrs. Chana Glenn, a’h BY RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN remarkable commitment to the path of chessed. This past Sukkos, the Jewish commu- Eventually she and her husband nity of Far Rockaway lost one of its moved to Far Rockaway, where her hus- brightest lights, Mrs. Chana Glenn. She band continued in chinuch and also was a ba’alas chessed extraordinaire— became one of the pioneers of Hatzolah. thoughtfully helping others with such She stood by him, being the woman compassion and sensitivity that she behind her husband as he both taught, thought of ways to make the recipients of and eventually became a menahel of a her chessed not feel uncomfortable. yeshiva. Guests of all sorts would fre- Mrs. Glenn was the loving wife of quent her home, and she was the perfect Rabbi Avrohom Glenn, a mechanech, a companion for her husband’s efforts in mohel, and a 27-year veteran Hatzolah chinuch and kiruv. member. She has been a resident of Far “Her eyes, her smile, conveyed her Rockaway for the past 35 years. And for deep genuineness to all who knew her. those 35 years Mrs. Glenn was an integral She cared about everyone and one could member of the community. discern it just by the look on her face. In the early years of her marriage she She had a kindness and a gentleness to Rabbi Avrohom Glenn, shlita, and Rebbetzin Chana Glenn, a’h. joined her husband in the field of chin- her words and actions that could just uch—Jewish education in out-of-town melt anyone’s heart,” remarked one of communities. Deeply committed to the close to 1,500 people who attended (physical needs),” recollected one of the impressed with gashmiyus. Yiddishkeit and to bringing the light of her levayah at TAG Elementary school in family members at the shivah. “To her, a She not only lived a life of chesed but Torah to others, Mrs. Glenn taught in day Far Rockaway. jalopy and a Cadillac were the same.” As a also exhibited the deepest feelings of schools and inspired young boys and girls Mrs. Glenn was an extraordinarily spir- mother she tried to instill this outlook in hakaras hatov—gratitude for others who to a life of Torah. She did it with genuine itual person. “She needed nothing and her children and was upset whenever her did her a good turn. She was forever grate- love toward her students and with a wanted nothing, in terms of gashmiyus children displayed signs of being ful to teachers and principals that educated her children. She helped out in those schools as much as she could. She was deeply committed to always doing the proper thing in the eyes of the Torah. One of her favorite expressions was, “Azoi shteit, azoi geit!—That’s how

She not only lived a life of chesed but also exhibited the deepest feelings of hakaras hatov—gratitude for others who did her a good turn.

[the halacha] states; that’s how we conduct ourselves!” It was a philosophy that she obtained from her father’s home. They never looked for loopholes, and neither did she. Indeed, when her chosson, Rabbi Glenn, was first introduced to her father in Cincinatti, her father first took him to the rav. If the rav approved of the young man, then and only then would it be acceptable to him. Her grandfather, R. Naftoli Gordon, had worked closely with Rav Lazer Silver in the Vaad Hatzolah, loaning and donating thousands of dol- lars personally. R. Gordon’s house in Cincinatti was known as the place where rabbonim could stay and eat. Mrs. Glenn witnessed greatness in Torah and middos, both from the illustrious guests and from the exemplary middos and viewpoints of her father’s and those that stemmed from her grandfather’s home. She attended Bais Yaakov Seminary in Williamsburg and became close to Rav Avigdor Miller, zt’l. She attributed her remaining in Bais Yaakov to Rav Miller himself. She was the quintessential Jewish mother—a professional Mommy, so to speak. She could smell strep or mono a mile away. She could identify rashes quickly in a manner that might have given dermatologists a run for their money. And with strangers, she was 62 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Chana Glenn’s chol ha’moed levayah at TAG. motherly as well. Tenants became mem- She had, bli ayin ha’ra, 27 grandchil- bers of the family. She made simchos, Bar dren, and they were her biggest joy. With Mitzvahs, and an aufruf for more than a the enthusiasm of a teenager she went few young men who were members of everywhere with them. She took them to their household. the malls, to attend to her various chas- Six months ago, she was diagnosed sadim or mitzvos, and just to enjoy their with a serious illness. Yet she never once company. She loved being with them. complained about her illness. Indeed, she On Empire Boulevard in Far Rockaway, attended a number of simchos of other the birds gather only on one side near the people even during her toughest periods. Glenn home. Why? Because Mrs. Glenn Whether it was a next door neighbor’s never threw out a piece of bread; instead daughter’s wedding, or a bris or pidyon she saved every piece of bread to feed to haben, she tried to partake in the joyous the birds. Whether it was because of the occasions of others. Four years ago she chumrah in Shulchan Aruch never to began attending the local Amen Group, throw out even less than a kezayis or and during the last six months she tried because of her genuine love of all of never to miss a session. She brought joy, Hashem’s creatures, or both—the chil- comfort, and inspiration to the other members in attendance too. Continued on Page 65

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 63 lo ezer knegdo” (Ch 2 v.18). heights greater than the angels. The Adam The Fourth: It is this Adam who finds himself examples of the prophecy of Moshe tending G-d’s garden with restrictions Rabbeinu, Solomon’s wisdom, David’s on what he can consume: the tree of song, and Hannah’s prayer are fractals of An Old/New Look At Man’s Creation knowledge of good and bad. Man is told this element of divinity that man can that falling prey to his desires would attain. On the other hand, Adam the lead to his certain mortality. Ultimately Second with his great need for protection BY RABBI JAY YAACOV moved within those gender roles utiliz- that is his fate and the fate of all his and openness to the evil urge captures SCHWARTZ, LMSW ing whatever talents and resources the future descendants. aspects of man’s lower self. The dialectic situation called for. How can we reconcile these two con- between these two polar opposites gives One of the most confounding texts of How strikingly different is the account trasting Adams—the all-powerful Adam us a more complete composite picture of the book of Genesis (Breishis) appears of man’s creation that appears in the sec- the First with the mild mannered and what Adam is all about. right “at the beginning.” Towards the end ond chapter of Genesis. There, man is vulnerable Adam the Second? Which I would like to suggest that we of the first chapter, as part of the sixth referred to as a lifeless form fashioned by version recounts what truly happened? could take this analysis a simple but day of Creation, we are told the first the hand of G-d much like a clay figurine. This is a question that Jewish minds and significant step further using a basic episode of the Creation of Man: “Vayitzer Hashem (ykvk) Elokim es theologians of all faiths have grappled and essential principle taken from our “Vayomer Elokim na’aseh adam ha’adam afar min ha’adamah” (Ch 2v. 7). with for centuries. mystical tradition. btzalmeinu.” “And Elokim said, ‘Let us The waters from the deep rise to form Rabbi Soloveitchik, in one of his most The Arizal, who revealed to us some of make Adam in our image.’” the deepest layers of Torah teachings The Torah continues, “Vayivra Elokim known as the Lurianic system of es ha’adam btzalmo btzelem Elokim bara Kabbalah, explained in detail that cre- es ha’adam zachar unekeivah bara oso.” ation is really comprised of four distinct “And Elokim Created Adam in His image. Adam the First describes man in his worlds. The first is called the World of In the image of male and female He creat- Atzilut. In this world we are closest to the ed them” (Ch 1 v.26, 27). unimaginable essence of G-d. It is a world A pretty magnificent role is described fullest potential, Adam the Second described as a reflection of G-d’s original for Man in Chapter 1, superlative in thoughts and desires to bring the world power and scope of purpose. his fragile existential reality. into being. Its analogy in its human sense On that day the male/female creature is an original thought that has yet to be was blessed by G-d to be fruitful, multi- articulated or brought into reality. ply, and be a master of the Earth, the fish The second world is the World of of the seas, the birds of the heavens, the Bri’ah. In this world the broad founda- beasts, and all that swarms the land. him and G-d breathes the breath of life famous essays, suggests that these two tions of an idea begin to be translated Adam the First, (to borrow a term into this mannequin, this golem. Adam Adams are really two reflections of the and have a contact with reality. The from Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik) was the Second is created alone, essentially same human identity. His thesis is that third world, Yetzirah, sees a dramatic an incredible being who soared with lost and searching for a mate. Adam the First describes man in his leap forward in form and content, angels yet had the capacity to manage, We are confronted with Adam the fullest potential, Adam the Second his whereas the fourth world, Asi’ah, is our direct, and control even the smallest of Second’s fragility, with what he lacks, not fragile existential reality. actualized reality with all of its per- creatures with mastery and aplomb. In with what he possesses. After unsuccess- Chapter One captures the essence of ceived imperfections. this depiction, Adam was neither fully courting his fellow beings, man is man’s divine soul, and speaks to his high- Careful scrutiny of the language of uniquely male or female but effortlessly given the gift of a mate. As it says, “E’eseh er self, the part of man that can reach the two creation stories shows each of

64 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES these concepts in distinct progression. places of origin into the physicial world Chana Glenn, a’h Sukkah. Always unpretentious and unas- First, in Chapter One, Elokim, the G-d of into which it resides. Continued from Page 63 suming, her levayah was just the way she power and perfection said “na’asah From this paradigm there are not two would have wanted it—no eulogies. They Adam.” He conceptualized the notion of but four Adams. One for each of the dren still do not know. But she knew that were forbidden because the funeral was man in company with the heavenly worlds that form part and parcel of his it was the right thing to do. Her love of all on Chol HaMoed. host. This reflects Adam in the stage of majestic yet vulnerable self. This simple of Hashem’s creations resulted in a home The loss that the family, the chil- Atzilut, a world of pure conceptualiza- application of a Kabbalistic truth unlocks with an occasional cat, dog, bird, or duck, dren, grandchildren, and the entire tion and will. for us a mystery that has given pause to and other various creatures. The children community feels is most profound. The second statement in Chapter One Jewish minds throughout the ages. saw an extraordinary kindness not just to One of her sons recollected a Gemara is “Vayira Elokim es ha’Adam.” In this The implications of this new/old people but to all. in Brachos that states that Hashem puts stage in the world of Bri’ah, Adam was approach are widespread in the realms of She would always ask her children and on tefillin just as the nation of Israel made neither male or female, for these psychology, human development, and grandchildren, “What’s your schedule?” does. Some make the extension to distinctions did not yet apply but were spiritual growth. Adam the first, second, One son recollected this and explained other mitzvos too. He thought, “While I part of a direction that would later mate- third, and fourth each has something dra- that this was because her children and am performing this mitzvah of esrog, rialize. So in Chapter One we have Adam’s matic to contribute and are worthy of fur- grandchildren were her life. She never what mitzvah is Hashem performing?” formation from the perspective of the ther analysis and careful inquiry. lectured or gave unsolicited advice. “She And then he hit upon the answer. two earlier worlds, Atzilut and Bri’ah, At least we can be comforted to know just gave love.” “Velakachta lecha pri eitz hadar. whose principles would only be fully that instead of a puzzling enigma, the She gave to Hatzolah too. How many Hashem took a beautiful pri.” actualized as the progress of man’s jour- story of Adam’s creation can be viewed as Pesach Sedorim did she and her family Her legacy to us all is twofold: The pro- ney toward creation continued. a beautiful map calling us to strive with finish alone? And Hatzolah knew it too. found lessons of chessed that she embod- In Chapter Two, the next two stages our incredible potential and our G-d- One of the Hatzolah heads remarked to ied and the beautiful family of lamed vov appear, the world of Yetzirah as it says given ability to unite all four worlds into the EMTs treating her, “Remember she is (36) descendents in our communities. She “Vayitzar Hashem Elokim es ha’Adam.” In a harmonious and beautiful self. O one of us.” is surely receiving much nachas from this lower but holier state, material meets Mrs. Glenn came home from the hos- them all. O physical as lowly dust is formed into a pital to spend Sukkos with her beloved Rabbi Jay Yaacov Schwartz M.A. L.M.S.W. holds The author can be reached at receptacle for Adam’s divine spirit. It is in several prominent positions in the Jewish family. She bentched licht and ate in the [email protected]. this world that the dilemma of man’s community. All of his professional affiliations focus on the integration of halacha, psychology, loneliness appears. For it is here that he spirituality, and healing with a special emphasis appears to finally quite distance from the on Chasidic thought. He is the founder and director of the Kanfey Shemesh foundation Noach was a righteous man, perfect in his generations realm of his Maker. The final stage, Asi’ah, (www.KanfeyShemesh.org), a 501c3 devoted to refers to the creation of Eve. E’eseh lo ezer providing chizuk and healing for Jewish (Bereishis 6:9) knegdo in this final world, the world in individuals and families. Rabbi Schwartz is also the founder and director of The Jewish Family Among our sages, there are those who interpret this as being in praise which we are consciously present, man Wellness Center which provides professional struggles with partnership, with harmo- counseling services that combine clinical expertise of Noach: If he was righteous in his generation then certainly he would with Jewish spiritual values. Its services include ny, and with freedom of his desires and marital and premarital therapy, anxiety and have been even more righteous if he would have been in a generation of the expression of his will. religious issues, bereavement and recovery issues, righteous people.And there are those who interpret this as a condem- In other words there is no contradic- personal (executive) coaching, and career paths counseling, seminars, workshops, and public nation: in relation to his generation he was righteous, but had he been in tion at all between Chapter One and education. He is also the hospital Avraham’s generation, he wouldn’t have been regarded as anything Chapter Two; the Torah is merely explain- rabbi/consultant to the department of medical affairs for the South Nassau Communities ing to us the four components of man’s Hospital in Long Island. For information and (Rashi) formation, his soul’s journey from its appointments, call 516-225-0086.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 65 HASC Center’s Lev Tova Opens Doors For Avi

BY YAAKOV KORNREICH ents who have dedicated their lives to needs in New York State, HASC Center look in the eyes of the father who came to care for their children with disabilities, to took the challenge to fill this need. pick up his child after having been able to This is the story of a bright, inquisitive have time away from the constant and Shmiel Kahn, the agency’s executive spend the first normal yom tov and five-year-old boy named Avi with an elec- intense level of attention to recharge director, asked Avi Sacks, associate execu- Shabbos with his family in many years. He tric smile, a talent for figuring out and play- their emotional batteries, handle a crisis, tive director and Blima Druker, residen- didn’t know how to adequately thank me ing handheld electronic games—and or enjoy a family simcha. tial area coordinator, to head the commit- and my staff. He was literally overcome autism. Avi’s story is a hopeful one. Last Imagine the mother of a school-age girl tee that would design and create this one with emotion and gratitude; and for a year, his parents enrolled him in an excel- in need of constant care who yearns to of a kind home from scratch. They spent moment, I was overcome as well.” lent program designed for children with spend Shabbos with her husband at her months of research, visiting many other Lev Tova is the first respite home in autism spectrum disorders hosted at a sister’s house for the first time since her secular respite homes, and exploring the New York State under frum auspices suit- local yeshiva. Though Avi still has a long daughter was born; or a woman who has best suited furniture and toys that would able for children from the greater way to go, he has made tremendous not seen her family in Israel for almost 20 meet the needs of these children. Orthodox community. The urgent need progress at his program and things seemed for such a facility, although recognized by to be looking bright for him and his family. Jewish agencies for a long time, received Then one day, Avi’s father was hospital- its strongest articulation from Binuryni, ized for what was intended to be a rou- A respite home requires a physical setting that is HASC Center’s parent support network tine surgical procedure. However, unex- for families of children needing special pected complications set in, turning what sufficiently flexible to address the needs of children care. Almost all of the parents in the was supposed to be an overnight stay group spoke of encountering situations into an extended recuperation. Avi’s who may be confronted with any of a broad range of and emergencies, such as those described mother naturally wanted to be with her above, where no satisfactory solution husband in the hospital over Shabbos but physical, intellectual, and medical challenges. was possible because there was no place first had to find a safe place where Avi available to leave their child safely, even could stay. His grandparents volunteered for a short period of time. While such to take care of the other two children but facilities exist for children needing spe- the responsibility to care for Avi was too years because no one she could trust was After the planning phase was complet- cial care who come from non-religious much for them to take upon themselves. available to take care of her disabled child ed, the daunting task of operating the homes, until Lev Tova opened just before In the past, Avi’s parents would have while she would be away. More recently, home was transferred to Chumie Ausch, Pesach of this year, parents in the reli- been at a loss to find a solution. But today imagine the frustration of the parents of a another HASC Center residential area gious community facing this situation there is Lev Tova, New York’s only frum, seven-year-old child with Angelman’s syn- coordinator, who has had considerable had nowhere to turn. overnight respite home for children with drome needing constant care to deal with experience managing residential facilities While opening and operating any new special needs operated by HASC Center. severe eating and behavioral problems, for a full range of people with develop- community residence serving people Located in the heart of Flatbush, Lev who desperately felt the need to give their mental disabilities. Chumie admits that it with special needs is always extremely Tova’s unique mission is to provide other children a three-day yom tov focus- has been both the most challenging and challenging, running a short-term respite respite care for children of families facing ing solely on them and their needs. the most rewarding assignment of her pro- home with different children coming on unexpected emergencies, like Avi’s. Lev With no other home of its kind serving fessional career. All the work became more a daily or weekly basis, presents another Tova makes it possible every day, for par- children from frum families with special than worth it, she says, “when I saw the whole dimension of challenge and diffi-

66 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES culty for the sponsoring community one’s comfort and, equally important, to ing, smiled, and walked quickly through Brooklyn Fire organization and its staff. give parents the peace of mind to attend the front door. Continued from Page 61 Over the past 20 years, HASC Center has to other responsibilities. Appropriately trained and certified opened dozens of residential facilities, Dr. Chaim Wakslak, clinical director, members of the staff are available on son of Rav Miller. each one carefully designed to meet the HASC Center, lauded the dedication of the short notice to deal with almost every Among the many speakers delivering needs of the intended residents with the staff and their enthusiasm as they take on specific need a child entering Lev Tova hespedim at the funeral was Rav Mechal living environment and the skill sets of the new challenges each time a child comes may need. The staff is fully aware of each Rosenbaum, who along with his wife and staff members. However, by its very nature, for a visit; for a day, a Shabbos, or even a child’s needs and preferences. Their infor- 13 children lived on the first floor of the it is impossible to do this for a respite facil- week’s stay. It is quite clear that the coun- mation comes from a comprehensive house that they shared with the Krasnys. ity, where the needs of its resident popula- selors are in constant motion, taking care packet of information completed by par- He is the son of Rav Yosef Rosenbaum tion are constantly changing. A respite of each child’s every need. Indeed, this con- ents covering every aspect of the child’s (the Kalischer Rebbe), who is the rav of home requires a dedicated and profession- stant attention keeps the children from daily life, including the foods they like to Khal Ginzei Yosef on Avenue R in al staff capable of providing almost every becoming bored, lonely, or homesick. eat, how they like to eat them, medica- Flatbush. As a result of the extensive fire kind of care, and a physical setting that is The second time young Avi came to tions and allergies, bedtime habits, and damage, the Rosenbaums have had to sufficiently flexible to address the needs of spend a Shabbos at Lev Tova it was under their favorite games and toys. find other temporary lodgings for their children who may be confronted with any much happier circumstances. His parents Everything about Lev Tova and its staff large family. of a broad range of physical, intellectual, had been invited to attend a family bar is special. The special meals created by “Today, we have lost a tzaddik,” said and medical challenges. mitzvah in Chicago. They contacted the heimeshe cook meet the needs of any Rabbi Lazer Ginsberg, fighting back Lev Tova was dedicated in memory of HASC Center several weeks in advance to diet. The special staff is qualified to tears, as he spoke from the bimah of Tova Jeidel, a’h, by her family. Tova was a make a reservation for Avi to spend that administer any kind of medication. The the shul during the levayah. He lauded woman whose love for special children Shabbos at the home. special windows are made of shatter- the Krasnys as people who are “truly and adults was an integral part of her life. Before leaving for Chicago, Avi’s moth- proof Plexiglas. Even the special doors moser nefesh for the k’lal, for Hashem, According to Shmiel Kahn, Lev Tova is the er had packed some of Avi’s favorite leading to the outside are specially Torah, and mitzvos” and asked that “all missing piece in the network of commu- things to take with him. Along with his designed to prevent children from gain- of us do difficult soul-searching to find nity facilities serving these families. “It clothes, she provided an assortment of ing access to the outdoors. But in the case a way to do tikkun [repair] of our souls provides them with the flexibility they Avi’s favorite Shabbos snacks, a detailed of a triggered fire alarm, the doors auto- and to become closer to Hashem need to deal with unexpected develop- list of instructions, including the little rit- matically open. through acts that foster achdus in the ments, and to take advantage of special uals Avi goes through at bedtime, and The ‘open door’ is a great metaphor for community.” occasions and opportunities to enrich even a crock pot full of chulent, just the the respite home concept itself. Until Throughout Flatbush, Boro Park, and their lives and make them better care- way he likes it. Upon leaving Avi’s house, now, in our community, when an emer- other frum communities, appeals for the givers and parents.” his grandfather called Chumie to tell her gency arose in a family with a child who grieving families have been made by The respite home has the capacity to that he and Avi were on their way. A few needs special care, doors were closed to prominent rabbanim, including Rav care for up to eight children at one time. minutes later, as they pulled up in front them. Now, thanks to Lev Tova, the doors Osher Kalmanowitz, rosh yeshiva of the Among its many amenities, it offers a spe- of the house, they were met by every open wide to children and families in Mir Yeshiva. The financial situation of cial multi-sensory “Snoezelen room” to counselor and child in the house, stand- need, providing them with new options both families is dire, and immediate help young people relax and enhance ing on the sidewalk waving, singing, and in their times of need. funds are desperately needed. their stay. With a large complement of surrounding the grandfather’s car, to help For more information on Lev Tova, as Those wishing to participate in helping staff selected from among the very best of bring Avi inside. As a counselor gently led well as the many other programs provid- both the Krasny and Rosenbaum families HASC Center’s counselors and caregivers, Avi away from the car, Avi started to cry ed by HASC Center throughout the year, may make checks out to Keren Hatzlolos there is enough staff on hand to meet for a moment. Then Avi remembered that contact the intake department at 718-535- Nefashos c/o Rabbi E. Brudny, 1752 East each child’s every need, to ensure each he had been there before. He stopped cry- 1953, or visit www.hasccenter.com. O 18th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11229. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 67 Don’t Let The Sun Come Down On Me

The Gemara (Avodah Zarah 25a) says Yaakov Avinu was miraculous, but it was- that the sun stood still for three people: n’t solely for his benefit. It was also to Moshe Rabbeinu, Yehoshua, and keep the world’s time in sync. The three Nakdimon ben Gurion. Yehoshua was people listed in the Gemara had the sun fighting against five kings to defend the stand still just for them. Giv’onim, with whom they had a peace Tosefos further notes that extra time treaty. It was erev Shabbos and the war was allotted in a day for King was not won yet. Yehoshua davened and Chizkiyah. Hashem had decreed that Hashem granted them extra time to Chizkiyah should die prematurely. complete the war before Shabbos. There When Chizkiyah found out about the are various opinions as to how much decree, he engaged in teshuvah and extra time was miraculously given to tefillah. Hashem accepted his repen- them. According to some, it was as tance, and the decree was torn up. As a much as 48 hours. sign that his prayers were answered, the The miracle of the sun standing still sun shone extra hours that day. for Moshe Rabbeinu is not written any- Why isn’t Chizkiyah on the list of peo- where in the Torah. In fact, there is a dif- ple for whom the daylight was extended? ference of opinion as to when that mira- Tosefos gives a similar answer to before: cle occurred. It happened either during There was an ulterior purpose here as the war against Sichon or the war against well. The sun had set early on the day of Amalek. We will discuss Nakidimon ben wicked Achaz’s burial. Hashem performed Gurion shortly. this miracle so that the populace would Tosefos asks why the Gemara doesn’t not eulogize an evil person. Hashem also list Yaakov Avinu among the people wanted to keep the world’s time in sync, for whom the daylight was altered. After so there was a day that would be extend- he was wounded by the Sar shel Eisav, ed. Hashem chose the day that Chizkiyah the sun rose early to heal him. Tosefos did teshuvah as a sign that his teshuvah answers that the extra time allotted to was accepted. So there were two reasons that day simply compensated for when that particular day was extended; it was- the sun set earlier when Yaakov was leav- n’t solely for Chizkiyah’s sake. Hence, ing Be’er Sheva. The sun rising early for Chizkiyah did not make the list.

68 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES The Ra’avad offers a different answer Universe! Make it known that You have 66b) is apropos: Once Rabban Yochanan am the daughter of Nakdimon ben for why Chizkiyah HaMelech and Yaakov beloved ones in Your world.” ben Zakkai was riding on a donkey, Gurion.” The rabbi continued to inquire, Avinu are absent from the list. For Moshe The clouds then immediately dis- leaving the city of Jerusalem, and his “My daughter, the wealth of your father— Rabbeinu, Yehoshua, and Nakdimon ben persed, and the sun broke through. students were walking behind him. He where has it gone?” She responded, Gurion, the sun stood still. For Yaakov The simple understanding of this saw a young woman who was gather- “Rabbi, do they not say this proverb in Avinu, it rose early. For Chizkiyah, the Gemara is that the sun stood still for a ing barleycorns from the dung-drop- Jerusalem: ‘The only way to salt [i.e., pre- sun went backwards. Having the orbits while, temporarily obscured by the pings left by the animals of Arabs. serve] money is to give it away? The only of the planets suddenly stop, thereby way to guarantee that you will keep your causing the sun to virtually halt, and still money is by giving your money to chari- have the universe survive is a bigger mir- ty!’” [But Nakdimon ben Gurion did not acle than having the sun rise early or go disburse charity properly and therefore back along its orbit. Only the people for “Master of the Universe! Make it he lost all of his money.] whom the bigger miracle was performed The Talmud concludes: How can any- made the list. However, the Ra’avad’s one say that Nakdimon ben Gurion did answer is at odds with the Gevuras Ari, as known that You have beloved ones not give charity? Have we not learned: I will explain. “They would say about Nakdimon ben Nakdimon ben Gurion’s story is men- in Your world.” Gurion that when he walked from his res- tioned in Ta’anis (19b–20a): idence to the house of study they would Once it happened when all Israel roll out an exquisite silk runner before came up on pilgrimage (oleh regel) to him and he would allow the poor to walk Jerusalem that there was no water avail- behind and pick up the expensive materi- able for drinking. Thereupon Nakdimon clouds. This is indeed how the Ra’avad When this impoverished young al for themselves”? The Gemara offers ben Gurion approached a certain lord mentioned above explains it. The Gevuras woman saw the great sage, she respect- two answers. One is that he gave and said to him: “Loan me 12 wells of Ari, however, explains that the sun had in fully covered her face with her hair and tzedakah, but his primary motivation was water for the pilgrims, and I will repay fact set, but Hashem performed a miracle approached him with a plea, “O rabbi, for his own honor. The second answer is you 12 wells of water; and if I do not, I and brought the sun back out. please sustain me!” that although he gave an enormous will give you instead 12 talents of silver.” As for the fate of Nakdimon ben Rabban Yochanan asked her, “My The lord agreed, and they set a date for Gurion, the following Gemara (Kesubos daughter, who are you?” She replied, “I Continued on Page 70 (re)payment. When the time came for repayment and no rain had yet fallen, the lord sent a message to Nakdimon in the morning: “Send me either the water or the money of mine that you have.” Nakdimon replied, “I still have time; all day, in its entirety, is mine.” At midday the lord again sent him a message: “Send me either the water or the money of mine that you have.” Nakdimon replied, “I still have time left today.” Late in the afternoon, the lord again sent him the message demanding payment of the water or the money. Nakdimon again replied, “I still have time left today.” Thereupon the lord sneeringly said, “The whole year has passed and rain has not fallen; now [in the short time remaining] rain will fall?” Thereupon he repaired in a happy mood to the baths. (The Maharsha explains that his intent was possibly to ridicule Nakdimon and the Jewish people, as if to say, “You don’t even have enough water to drink, and I have plenty— enough even to bathe in.”) Meanwhile, while the lord had gone gleefully to the baths, Nakdimon entered the Beis HaMikdash sadly. He wrapped himself and stood in prayer: “Master of the Universe! It is revealed and known before You that I have not done this for my honor nor for the honor of my father’s house, but for Your honor have I done this, in order that water be available for the pilgrims.” Immediately, the sky became overcast with clouds and there was a downpour of rain until the 12 wells were filled with water to a level higher than they were the year before. As the lord came out of the baths, Nakdimon ben Gurion came out from the Beis HaMikdash. The two met, and Nakdimon said to the lord, “Give me the money for the additional water of mine that you have.” The latter replied, “I know that the Holy One, blessed be He, disturbed the world only for your sake, yet my claim against you for the money still holds, for the sun had already set—the rain that fell is mine [and your debt is still due].” Nakdimon thereupon reentered the Beis HaMikdash, wrapped himself, and stood in prayer: “Master of the 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 69 DAF YOMI INSIGHTS already past due. Perhaps according to Continued from Page 69 the strict letter of the law, Nakdimon was allowed to keep the money. (Maybe amount of tzedakah, a man of his means actual nightfall, not sunset, should be was expected to give even more. the determinant—Iyun Yaakov.) The commentators question the first Someone of his stature, though, is answer. Isn’t charity given for ulterior expected to act according to highest lev- motives also a mitzvah? They explain els of honesty and integrity. that charity given to further a personal The Chasam Sofer explains that the agenda is indeed a mitzvah. However, value of the 12 talents of silver was pre- that type of charity does not afford the sumably distributed to charity. (As a gen- protection of one’s wealth; only the merit eral rule, righteous people prefer not to of charity given for the proper reasons have any benefit from miracles.) Since has the special fringe benefit of safe- the charity was given for his honor, he guarding one’s assets from loss. was punished by the loss of his wealth. The Maharsha’s commentary on this According to this explanation, the episode is somewhat enigmatic. He Maharsha holds it was the combination writes, “From here we learn a lesson of both factors that brought about the regarding those people who become demise of Nakdimon’s fortune: he should wealthy with money that is not justly not have kept the 12 talents of silver, and acquired. These people use their ill-gotten he distributed these very same funds to gains to pledge large sums of money dur- tzedakah for his own honor. ing a Mi SheBeirach for their honor and Someone who achieves success using glory. They will not be saved from the less-than-honest methods may momen- punishment of thievery.” The Chasam tarily seem to benefit. However, the Sofer wonders where the Maharsha sees Maharsha provides a powerful lesson to this lesson in the aforementioned us regarding what the end results might Gemara. True, the Gemara discusses the be. Hashem should inscribe us all for a giving of charity for the purpose of receiv- year of an honest parnasah tovah. O ing accolades, but nowhere does it discuss the means by which one attained his Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz affluence. Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead. He The Chasam Sofer suggests that per- can be contacted at [email protected]. haps the Maharsha’s source is the Gemara quoted earlier from Ta’anis. When the sun miraculously reappeared, Nakdimon ben Gurion did not give the lord the 12 talents of silver. Perhaps he Visit us at should have. True, Hashem miraculously 5TJT.com brought the sun back out, but the day was already over, and the money was

70 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 71 SERVICES SERVICES PROVIDED PROVIDED

Shomer Shabbos. Cheapest Rates ever Advance your guitar skills. from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem day or Experienced in all genres with a pas- night 180 Shekel four passengers + four sion for hard rock/and metal training. suitcases included. Call 050-6341-234 Advanced rhythm, soloing and jam ses- sions. Patient and attentive. Adaptable Speak to Shaul. lesson-plans to fit all playing levels. 45 Photography - Small Event Specialist min session $65. Call Victor at 917-561-8486 Bar/Bat Mitzva - Bris - Yeshiva/Shul Functions - Family Portraits New Table and Chair Gemach for Reasonable prices - Quality Work - Fast short-term simchas. 740 Mador Ct., Turnaround. Call Eli - 516-319-7709 Far Rockaway. Call 718-471-0368

The Computer Place Menadvim— Furniture and Appliances. Computer Consultants, Technical Like new to Donate and Receive. Support, Network, Internet Solutions. Call 718-MEN-ADVIm (718-636-2384) Call 866-583-2443 We deliver.

Beautiful business-size cards with Couture dress maker. Perfect tailory. Kiruv websites, are available for free Excellent alterations. Works with fine (to give to not-yet-Frum people). fabrics and designer’s clothes. Pick-up Please text or call 718-501-2110 and delivery available. By appointment only. Please leave message. 516-808-3231 Nehora Tours Travel. Not a gimmick. Best rates ever, best service JFK Handyman— General Maintenance NY/Newark NJ to Ben Gurion all credit Electrical, Plumbing, Carpentry, cards accepted best deal all airlines. Appliances, Insulation, Drywall, Doors, [email protected] Windows & Much More 516-417-8042

“Used or Abused” Before you buy a used car, come in for a free frame (structural) check. Precision Auto Body 691 Burnside Your Ave, Lawrence. 516-371-1137. Friends don’t let friends drive junk! Real Estate,

Study with Steve. One-on-one tutoring. Service, or SAT Math prep, regents, high school and elementary math, high school Help Wanted Ad physics. Call 516-371-5522 Here Every Simchas Naava Share your simcha flowers! Be Thursday m’sameach other simchas! Donate your fresh flower arrangements! We will match your simcha date with simchas following yours or deliver them 100,000 readers to nursing home residents. To donate or obtain flower look forward to arrangements call 516-239-6066 what’s happening In memory of a special friend, Naava Wassner Katlowitz in the 5 Towns Help Kosiner Bikur Cholim maintain by reading their apartments near Manhattan hospitals. Sponsor a Shabbos as a z’chus. The Five Towns Donations accepted. Tax deductible. 347-924-4205 Jewish Times.

G'Mach Chasdei Yisroel — Lending money to people in Klei Kodesh & for Deadline is Monday Klei Kodesh purposes. In the Far Rockaway-Five Towns area. Please call at 5:00 p.m. 917-822-9910 for more info. Or email 1 Week...... $35 [email protected]. In Memory of R' Yisroel Ben Binyamin, a"h. 2 Weeks ...... $60

Work On Your New Goals. Big pix 4 Weeks ....$100 and doable pieces with unique clarity. Inner & external goals. Proven Weekly Ads of up to track-record. Self-discovery, collabo- ration, taking action. Creative, out- 25 words of-the-box. Testimonials speak for themselves. For Women. Call: 516-569-0502 www.OrthodoxJewishLifeCoach.com 516-569-8074 [email protected] Fax: 516-977-0608 Or E-mail ads to: Small beginners Siddurim, and Shabbos guidebooks, both in Russian, are avail- [email protected] able for you to distribute. Please call Tashbar Publications at Include payment info. 718-438-9025 (leave message with address, IY"H we will mail them to you for free.) 72 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE HELP WANTED FOR SALE FOR SALE FOR SALE

Position Available In Far Rockaway, Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth Far Rockaway — 2 family totally beau- Co-ops & Condos For Sale Boro Park, and Flatbush. Work part Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K tifully renovated. 2 granite cherry wood Lawrence — Reduced! Mint 1BR, EIK, time with a special needs child in Call 516-322-3555 SS kitchen, total 5BR, 4bths, plus fin- h/w flrs. 1st flr. Very lo maint. . . $120K mornings or evenings. Call Metropolitan ished basement. Near Darchei.. . $449K JanKalman.com 516-569-5651 718-633-3334 ext. 14 Hewlett — Col. MIC, 4br, 2bth, 2fpl, full 516-343-8298 deck, wood flr, Lg. den. Walk to all. Exclusives Salespeople needed for a local Brooklyn ...... $729K Cedarhurst — New construction. First Lawrence 40 Lismore Road — 5BR, business. You must be energetic, reli- 5 TOWN HOMES 516-322-3555 show. Col. 9’ ceilings, 5BR, 2.5bths, full 3.5bth Col...... $700s able, and enthusiastic. Base salary + basement, on quiet tree-lined street. Woodmere 816 Jefferson Street — North Woodmere — New to market. commission. Great opportunity. Call Joe Call for details ...... $799K Cream puff 3BR ranch...... $469K Custom 6BR (4 on one level), new gran- 646-619-2822 ext. 6100 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Lawrence — Large 5rm condo. Enclos ite kitchen, LR, FDR, 2 dens, quiet tree- heated porch. 10 closets...... $375K Boro Pk travel agency sks a F/T lined street. Walk all shuls. . . . . $679K Luxury 2BR co-op in Lawrence. First Wdsbrg — 6BR, 7bth colonial. Near all. employee to start right away. Travel Owner. floor entrance. 2 large BR, large DR/ Mint ...... 1.6M exp is a Must. Pleasant working envi- 516-902-8908 LR area. Garage space available.$200K Smolinsky 516-295-4444 ronment & grt potentials. Please call 718-873-5422 Hewlett — Beautiful 5 BR, 3 bths, split. Plse fax your resume to 646-726-9272 or Lawrence/Far Rockaway — All updated, in SD#14. Separate call 718-475-7668 Lawrence — New to market. Spacious 833 Central Ave. New to market. entrance can be M/D with proper per- 5BR, 3.5bth split, large LR with fire- Spacious 1 BR, light and bright, door- mits. Owner motivated, reduced. Heimish financial company in place, FDR, large EIK, den, oversized man/elevator building, walk all. . . $195K ...... $499K Williamsburg is looking for a full time property on quiet tree-lined street. Walk 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 female account rep. 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 all shuls...... $1,050M Duties include: Managing relationships Woodsburgh/ Woodmere — For the dis- Woodmere/Cedarhurst Oppty! 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 with customers, and customer service. cerning buyer. Majestic 3BR, 3bth, 12,000 sq. ft. approx. 90’x150’, Colonial, Candidate must be personable and have grand LR, separate FDR, den, EIK, 17 rooms, full bsmt. with hi ceilings, Fabulous buy in Inwood. Large updated 3-4 years of sales experience. huge foyer. Deal off, back on market! clean 2 car garage plus storage, 6 space home with two kitchens on large lot. Computer skills are a must. Esther Walfish 516-476-7764 . . . $400’s+ parking, 2 family, professional use, Close to everything!! A must Call 347-560-1350 & lv msg. accountant, Esq., medical and/or educa- see!!$449K. Possible Mother/Daughter (with permits). Move right in!! Call In-house Sales Rep — Female F/T tional and religious uses. Grand colonial COMMERCIAL REAL Leah 516-208-5114 Responsibilities incl following up w/ with charm and great possibilities. Far Rockaway — Perfect Starter Home ESTATE FOR RENT active leads, client relations etc. Available at once . . . $875K Negotiable & Perfect location. 3 beds 2 bath, EIK, Will be part of existing in-house sales Owner 516-322-3555 den. Needs some TLC . reduced to . . . force. Sales experience necessary. Cedarhurst — New house Young con- $359K. Three newly decorated offices available Must have excllnt communication & temporary col. high ceilings, large win- Weissman Realty Group. 516-791-6100 for sublet on Central Avenue. Double writing skills, computer proficiency a dows, bright and light, 4 BR (1 level) office “Suite”, 9’x11’ & 9’x15’. The third plus. LR, FDR, large EIK, den, full finished 5 Towns Located near Williamsburg Bridge. office is 10.5’x13’. Available furnished or basement, large fenced yard. Walk all. Open Houses, Oct. 10th Base plus commission. unfurnished. 24 hour access. Includes ...... $3,000 Ced 336 Westminster (2:30-4) — 3BR, Call 718-687-1699 & lv msg. A/C, alarm, utilities, internet, cleaning Five Towns Realty 516-569-5710 2Bth Cape. Red! ...... $398K service. For more information please Ced 574 Trysting (B/A) — 2BR Lvly call Renee at 516-569-4949, ext. 104. REAL ESTATE House for sale by owner, on a very cute Col. Spac LR & FDR.1.5 Bth . . . . . $3s block in Cedarhurst, 3 BR, 1 1/2 Bath, EIK, Ced 315 Leroy (12-1:30) — 4BR, 2Bth Far Rockaway — 2 Huge Office Spaces. FOR SALE LR/DR and Finished Basement. Priced to Col. FDR, nice prop...... $515K 6,000 and 2,500 Sq Ft. 2nd Floor. Near sell. For more info please call 516-569-1685 Ced. 425 Ced Av (12-1:30) — 5BR, (leave a message if no answer). 3.5Bth Col. Lg prop...... $749K Subway & LIRR. Build to Suit. Can be Far Rockaway: 2 Fam. All NU Hew 1588 Hewlett Av (12-2) — 4BR Col. divided. Owner 917-359-9776 Cedarhurst: Co-op. 1st Show 3 over 3 Br. 4Fbth, Dr, Full bsmt Great potential ...... $3’s 1st Flr, large LR, FDR, 2BR, 2bths, All features ...... $779K Hew 1208 W.Bway (B/A) — Income Dina’s Salon in Cedarhurst looking for Terrace. Views of Gdns, W/D, Lo maint, esthetician, manicurist, makeup artist, Call 516-263-6417 Prod. 10 rms. Make offers...... $399K Grt. loca’n, Walk all ...... $320K Law 1 Rosalind Pl.#1H&J (1:30-3) — and masseuse who is interested in rent- 5 Town Homes 516-569-5710 Lawrence co-op— 1 Roslyn Place— Jr4, Mint 3BR, 2Bth, 2 terr, 1st flr. . . $369K ing space. Please contact Dina at 646-270-3381 1 full bth, LR/DR with terrace overlook- Lawrence — Ours Alone!! N.Wd 775 Gilbert Pl (11:30-1) — Lg ing Central Ave. Low maintenance, pos- Brick, C/H COL, Stately brick, w/old family Col.4BR, 3Bth...... $599K Kew Gardens Hills — Professional world charm, Hi ceilings, 6Br, 4.5 bths, Wdm 104 Combs Av (3-4) — All renov sibility of two parking spots. Reduced! offices for rent. Main Street. Great loca- ...... $170K Kosher EIK, Lg. FDR, Library, Fin. Col. 5BR, 2.5Bth. Deep prop . . . . $518K Bsmt., Lg Prop., walk all. tion. Available immediately. Call owner Please call Ari 516-521-8870 JanKalman.com 516-569-5651 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 646-267-2024 Far Rockaway/ Lawrence—833 Central Lawrence Open House by appt 1BR co-op, large LR/DR, updated Glendale/Ridgewood, NY — 5,500 sq. Lawrence — Wonderful c/h col. house 284 Central Ave. — Co-op-2BR, 2bth, kitchen, 24-hour doorman, Shabbos ele- ft. available for immediate. High ceil- on the nicest cul-de-sac there is. Brand terrace ...... $139K vator, low maintenance. Reduced $195K ings $5.50/sq. ft. Call 917-841-1580 new kitchen, finished basement. 395 Barrett Rd. — C/h col 1/2 acre, golf Also for rent ...... $1,100.00 Asking ...... $875K views Call 516-902-0936 Cedarhurst office for rent— 2 small Weissman Realty Group, LLC 360 Central — Co-op renovated 1BR offices on Central Ave. 1 flight up, C/H, 516-791-6100 1.5bths elevator, doorman bldg. $300’sK Back Lawrence — 519 Chauncey Lane 5 C/A. Call owner 917-417-5725 Woodsburgh BR, 3.5 Bths, 8/10 of an acre, facing golf Oceanside — Brand new construction. 2 lg BR, 1bth, 1st flr coop . . . . . $239K course, igp, priced right. Rockville Centre — 3,500 sq. ft., fully Beautiful CH col. Large 4 BR (1 level), 1BR, 1bth coop ...... $175K 516-581-2058, 516-374-4001 wired for Web, partitioned, will divide. 2.5 bths, granite EIK, FDR, den with fp, Spacious expanded ranch 2/3 acre Call 516-322-3555 full bsmt, in cul-de-sac, walk all, best ...... $998K North Woodmere — Decorator’s Dream. price ...... $675K Mint 5BR col. huge kosher EIK, den/ Beautiful bi-level, large granite kosher Cedarhurst — Office rental: Executive 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 library magnificent property EIK, FDR, large LR, den, 4BR, water- 2 Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., Woodmere view, all systems, walk all shuls. Owner CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 5 Town Homes 516-569-5712 1039 Magnolia Pl. — Spacious 4BR,den, motivated. Present all offers. Cedarhurst: NU 2 Mkt. Lg LR, DR, basement, beautiful cul-de-sac . . $845K 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 EIK, Den, 5BR, 3bth, Skilits, Cabana, 560 Woodmere Blvd — Beautiful 6BR Lg prop, IGPool, Walk to all . . . $659K col., Wdmr Park ...... $800’s Visit us at Far Rockaway — 2 Family. All NU, 976 Dartmouth Lane — 4BR Heritage 3 over 1 Bdrm, 3 full baths. Great 5TJT.com Law: Hi Ranch. Must see, 4br, 2.5bth, Col ...... $539 neg Location ...... $599K N. Woodmere — Grand 5BR col, new fam rm, CAC, 2 car garage, large Call 516-322-3555 kitchen and bths ...... $745K prop ...... $800sK Inwood 194 Wanser Ave. — 4-5 p.m. Ced: Nu2Mkt, 2Fam, 3br/3br, 2fpl, Kew Garden Hills — 3 Family Brick Renovated 4BR col. 100x186 property Classified Ads are deck, all new, grt loc, full bsmt corner house, Across from Chofetz ...... $575K ...... $795K Chaim, Finished basement, Large prop- Milky Forst Properties Inc Continued on the Next Page. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 erty. 917-836-0146 Principles Only. 516-239-0306 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 73 CLASSIFIED ADS Continued from Page 73 FOR RENT FOR RENT FOR RENT

FOR RENT Flatbush Apt. for rent. New listing. Cedarhurst — Garden apt. Nu 2 Mkt. Flatbush AveN/E4 — Newly renovated, Prime location. East 10th J&K. Private 2BR. 2Bth, Mint, 1st Flr, heat & prk 4BR, 1Bath, LR, DR, EIK, W/D, in pvt house, 3rd floor, 2 bdrms, huge closets, incld ...... $2,300 house. Near all. Call 917-929-3118 utilities separate ...... $1,500 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Hewlett — Apt for rent. Modern 2BR, Far Rockaway — Large One Bedroom Call 917-371-7982 Far Rockaway rentals: new kitchen, LR with fireplace, DR, Apartment for rent. Beautiful elevator SD#14...... $1800 bldg. Nice tenancy. Great location at Lawrence — Coop Rental. 1BR. 1NU 1, and 2BR apartments. some bal- Call 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 Neilson and Cornaga, near Shor Yoshuv, Bth, LR, DR, EIK...... $1,300 conies. New kitchens, lots of closets, 24 transportation, and shopping. 5Town Homes ** 516-569-5710 hr doorman, FIOS, security cameras. Hewlett — House for rent. Updated Asking $1,100. Call 718-692-2525 ext. 180 3BR, 2bths, new EIK, SD#14, walk all. Valley Stream — Ranch house. 3BR, Close to White Shul, Shor Yoshuv and Available immediately ...... $2600 new EIK, quiet street, SD24, walk all. train. Call Sherri 516-297-7995 Cedarhurst — All new, bright 3 BR, 1.5 Call 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 $2250 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 bths, ground floor apt in 2-family house, 833 Central. One bedroom, 24 hour door-

LR, FDR, EIK/ w new appliances, new Far Rockaway — Lg. Hse Rental: 4br, man, Shabbos elevator. Reduced $1,100 Cedarhurst — All new bright, 1st flr, carpet, w/d included, yard and parking. 2bth, bsmt., hi-ceilings, NU bths, W\D. Lawrence— The Carlyle Totally reno- 2BR, 2bth, LR, FDR, EIK w/new appliances, terrace, h/w floors, walk all. Walk all ...... $2,150 Call 516-322-3555 vated 2BR, 2bths, new kitchen, closets 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 ...... $2,250 galore, large terrace $3000/ month. Call Valley Stream — All new beautiful large 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 Special Prices At Sand Castle For 2 BR, EIK – FDR, upper of 2 family Sherri 516-297-7995 Far Rockaway — Beautiful 6.5 rooms, 3 5TJT Readers — Studios for $895. house, quiet residential street, includes Weissman Realty Group, LLC BR, 2 baths, new kitchen, separate Includes utilities. No brokers’ fee! HW heat and parking...... $1,700 516-791-6100 entrance, own thermostat. Best block in floors, big windows, fully-equipped 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Far Rockaway. 718-868-1153 kitchens, cable and internet connectivi- Far Rockaway — First floor. Kitchen, LR, large MBR with walk-in closet, ty, closets. Gym, gourmet market, phar- North Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch in Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. front porch, back patio with sliding macy, Rabbi Korn's shul, and laundry 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 doors, own electric meter and thermo- FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. facilities in BLDG. 711 Seagirt Ave. on stat, newly renovated. 516-643-9204 Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 the beach - convenient to subway, Cedarhurst — All updated charming 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Sunny Isles Beach, Winston Towers — LIRR, and Q113 bus. Col. New granite EIK, FDR, LR with Luxury 2BR, 2BTH, Ocean & Bay Views www.sandcastleny.com. fireplace, 4+ BR, CAC, in the heart of Computer & Internet Access Doorman/ Alexander Hotel, Miami Beach — Weissman Realty Group, LLC Cedarhurst. Walk all. Security Young Israel Downstairs 2 BR apts., 2 Bth, breathtaking views, 718-471-2593 Call 5 Towns Homes 516-569-5710 347-776-1918 Southern exposure, 10th floor. 516-581-2058, 516-374-4001 Valley Stream — First show! Lovely 4 Lawrence/Far Rockaway — 833 Central Newly Renovated house on an excellent BR, 2 bths, in SD#14, LR, DR, den, on Ave. Jr 4 (2 BR) Spacious doorman/ ele- block in Far Rockaway For Rent near Far Rockaway — B13 St. Beautiful large property, walk all, ...... $2,350 vator building, walk all ...... $1,500 Agudah, White Shul and Shor Yoshuv. 3BR, 2bths, excellent cond...... $1600 5 Towns Home Realty 516-569-5710 5 Towns Homes Realty 516-569-5710 Call owner at 917-617-1727 Call Marty Century 21 Yve 516-343-8298

74 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES FOR RENT FOR SALE Solution To Previous 5TJT Puzzle:

Cedarhurst — Large 6 room apt. 3BR Furniture— LR, DR, & BR sets, French Ushpizin w/ EIK, DR, and LR. All new, stainless & Italian Provincial. 917-836-0146 steel appliances including microwave, dishwasher, and W/D, hardwood floors. Owner 516-633-3414 MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Alone in Sloan Kettering on Yom Tov?! Sponsor the rent of the Kosonier Bikur Cholim rooms near NY hospitals as a Become an Acai Berry Juice distribu- z’chus for a yeshua and refuah. 347-924-4205 tor and earn commission immediately. Online trainer, work from home, no Helping poor brides is a big z’chus to investment, e-mail [email protected] find a shidduch! Donate to Yad P’sucha Hachnasas Kallah. Call 718-972-3699 Appetizing kosher deli/ catering. Located in Woodmere. Very viable and lucrative. Looking for partner or potential buyer. Seeking shomer Shabbos individual. Ask for Bob 516-205-2737 Deadline for LEGAL Classified Advertising NOTICE in next week’s issue is Notice of formation of Longview Energy LLC, a limited liability company. Articles of organi- Monday, October 11 zation ﬁled with the Secretary of the State of New York (SSNY) on August 26, 2010. Ofﬁce at 5:00 P.M. located in Nassau, SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy Call 516-569-0502 of any process served against the LLC to THE LLC 253 Rockaway Tpke. Lawrence, N.Y. 11559. Purpose: any lawful purpose. Puzzle appeared in the September 24 issue.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 75

Noach himself, 950 years). The think on his own, to take the Zohar explains that this was an ideas which he has learned and era of Divine benevolence, in apply them to new areas. Man which life, health and prosperi- was now able not only to absorb ty flowed freely and indiscrimi- the Divine input into his life but nately from Above. also to unleash its potential in Following the Flood, we see a new, unprecedented ways. steady decline in the human life Such a world is in many ways span. Within ten generations, a weaker world than one that is From The Chassidic Masters Avraham is old at the age of 100. wholly sustained by Divine The second difference is one grace. It is more independent, that seems at odds with, and and thus more subject to the Color And Light even contradictory to, the first: limitations and mortality of the After the Flood, the world human state. Hence the shorter gained a stability and perma- life spans of the post-Flood gen- And G-d spoke to Noach and to tains and displaying them in an a deeper, spiritual difference nence it did not enjoy in the erations. But in the final analy- his sons with him, saying: “…This arc across the misty skies. between the pre- and post-Flood pre-Flood era. Before the Flood, sis, such a world is more endur- shall be the sign of the covenant Yet before the Flood, this nat- worlds, and the resultant differ- the world’s very existence was ing: even when it loses sight of which I am making between Me ural occurrence did not occur. ence in G-d’s manner of dealing contingent upon its moral state. its origin and purpose, it retains and you and every living creature There was something about the with a corrupted world. When humanity disintegrated the ability to rehabilitate itself that is with you, for all genera- interaction between the mois- into corruption and violence, and restore its relationship with tions. My rainbow I have set in ture in the earth’s atmosphere Contrary Differences G-d said to Noach: “The end of its Creator. Because it possesses the cloud… When the rainbow and the light emanating from An examination of the all flesh is come before Me, for an independent potential for shall be seen in the cloud, I shall the sun that failed to produce a Torah’s account of the first 20 the earth is filled with violence self-renewal, it can always remember My covenant… Never rainbow. It was only after the generations of history reveals through them; behold, I shall reawaken this potential, even again shall the waters become a Flood that the dynamics that two primary differences destroy them and the earth.” after it has been suppressed and flood to destroy all flesh.” create a rainbow were set in between the world before the Following the Flood, G-d lain dormant for generations. —Bereishis 9:8–15 place by the Creator as a sign of Flood and the post-Flood era. vowed: “I will not again curse The rainbow, of course, is a His newly formed covenant The pre-Flood generations the earth because of man…nei- Rising Mist natural phenomenon. Rays of with His creation. enjoyed long lives—we find ther will I again smite every- The rainbow is the natural sunlight pass through water The spiritual and the physical people living into their eighth, thing living, as I have done. For event that exemplifies the new droplets suspended in the atmos- are two faces of the same reality. ninth, and tenth centuries all days of the earth, [the seasons post-Flood order. Moisture rises phere; the clear, crystal-like This change in the physical (Noach’s grandfather, for] seed time and harvest, cold from the earth to form clouds droplets refract the light, unleash- nature of the interaction Methushelach, lived 969 years; and heat, summer and winter, and raindrops, which catch the ing the spectrum of colors it con- between water and light reflects his father, Lemech, 777 years; day and night, shall not cease.” light of the sun. A less refined No longer would the cycles of substance would merely absorb life and nature totter on the the light, but the purity and verge of extinction whenever translucency of these droplets man strays from his G-d. The allows them to focus and chan- post-Flood world is a world nel the rays they capture in whose existence is assured, a such a way that reveals the world that is desired by its many colors implicit within Creator regardless of its present each ray of sunlight. state of conformity to His will. The pre-Flood world lacked And the guarantor of this the rainbow. There was nothing assurance, the symbol of this in or about it that could rise new stability, is the rainbow. from below to interact with and develop what it received from An Opaque World Above. Such was its spiritual Before the Flood, man’s role nature; as a result, the condi- in creation lay primarily in tions for a physical rainbow also reacting to G-d’s involvement in failed to develop—the mist it the world. The flow of Divine raised could only absorb, but vitality into the world was plen- not refract, the light of the sun. tiful and uninhibited, enabling Lacking a creative potential man to attain great material and of its own, the pre-Flood world spiritual heights; but these was left without reason and achievements were merely right for existence when it man’s acceptance of what was ceased to receive the Divine being bestowed upon him from effluence from Above. Then Above, rather than the fruits of came the Flood. The rains that his own initiative. destroyed a corrupted world The pre-Flood world was like a also cleansed it and purified it, brilliant pupil who grasps the leaving in their wake a new most profound teachings of his world with a new nature: a master, but who lacks the ability world that rises to meet and to conceive of a single original transform what is bestowed thought of his own. So, once this upon it; a world with the world was corrupted—once it translucency and refinement to had distanced itself from its develop the gifts it receives into Master and disavowed its rela- new, unprecedented vistas of tionship with Him—it lost the color and light. basis for its existence. When man When this world goes astray, ceased to respond, the world held G-d sees its rainbow, and the sight no further use for the Creator. causes Him to desist from destroy- After the Flood, G-d imbued ing it. For the rainbow attests to the world with a new poten- the world’s new maturity—its tial—the potential to create. He ability to ultimately rise above its granted it the ability to take present lapse and rebuild its rela- what it receives from Above and tionship with its Creator. O develop it, extend it, and expand upon it. The world was Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem now like a disciple who had Mendel Schneerson; adapted by been trained by his master to Yanki Tauber. 76 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

South Shore Boys Begin Bereishis Photos By Elana Fertig

This week, the Early Childhood Center of Yeshiva of South Shore dove right into the Parashah by playing around with light and darkness, clouds and sky, and other aspects of Creation.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 77 Dirshu Edition Of Mishna Berurah Chelek Gimel Revolutionizes The Learning Of Hilchos Shabbos

BY CHAIM GOLD understanding of hilchos Mastering Hilchos Shabbos Shabbos has been hailed and Made Possible! “This is not my first time underscored by thousands. As Halachah L’Bais Yisroel learning hilchos Shabbos. But Dirshu’s Chelek Gimel of began hilchos Shabbos, it has the Dirshu Mishnah Berurah Mishnah Berurah was released taken on an even greater signif- and the critically important this past Rosh Chodesh Elul in icance and dimension. Hilchos additions that have been added conjunction with the begin- Shabbos are among the most in the Biurim U’Musafim section ning of hilchos Shabbos in the difficult, complex halachos. Rav have enhanced my understand- Dirshu “Halachah L’Bais Yisroel” Yonason Eibushitz writes that ing of the Mishnah Berurah, the Mishnah Berurah program. In it is impossible for a person not background of the halachos, and the more than two years since to transgress the laws of the way that the halachos apply its inception, Halachah L’Bais Shabbos unless he learns them today, in an amazing way.” Yisroel has become one of thoroughly. —A Lakewood talmid chacham Dirshu’s most popular pro- Every ehrliche Yid, every G-d- The Dirshu Mishnah grams and its thousands of par- fearing Jew, truly wants to prop- Berurah has been on the ticipants have attested to the erly observe Shabbos and know shelves for just over a month profound change in their lives and understand the halachos. yet the tremendous effect that since they began learning the Unfortunately, the complexity of it has on the learning and daily Mishnah Berurah. the halachos combined with the fact that the halachos often have to be applied to modern day sce- narios have made learning the Mishnah Berurah on hilchos Shabbos particularly difficult. Dirshu left no stone unturned to ensure a most appealing, complete sefer that would empower the dedicated learner with the tools to gain insight and understanding into the multifaceted halachos contained within the Mishnah Berurah.

Biurim U’musafim: Completing The Picture Two entire kollelim comprised of talmidei chachamim who are experts in hilchos Shabbos were established for the express purpose of compil- ing the “Biurim U’Musafim” section accompanying every page of the Mishnah Berurah. One was headed by one of the gedolei horaah in Eretz Yisrael, Hagaon Harav Nosson Kopschitz, shlita, rav of the Kehillas Hacharedim of Beit Shemesh. The purpose of the copious, voluminous research done especially for this chelek was to give those learning Mishnah Berurah the most comprehensive picture possible of all the material pertaining to the applicable halachos.

Cross-Referencing Through Musafim The Biurim U’Musafim section really performs four different functions. Firstly the “Musafim” component adds the Mishnah Berurah’s own additional words and rulings culled from other areas on the subject at hand. For example, if the Mishnah Berurah, when expounding on the laws of bishul—cooking on Shabbos—discusses one topic at length and in a different section discusses the same topic in a shorter, less elaborate way, the Dirshu edition will bring the Mishnah Berurah’s words from the other location. This fre- quently sheds light on the halachic ruling and enables the learner to see how the Chofetz 78 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Chaim himself ruled on the same matter Neuwirth, author of the Shemiras in a different place. Shabbos K’hilchasa, Rav Yehuda Aryeh Dunner, and Rav Simcha Bunim Halachic Rulings And Their Waldenberg were all incorporated. Backgrounds: In One Place The second component is that of the Rav Aharon Leib Shteinman And Biurim. Often, in the main body of the Rav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz Mishnah Berurah the Chofetz Chaim only Hail Dirshu Mishnah Berurah writes the actual psak halachah, without It is therefore no wonder that when giving the reasons for that ruling. It is not the nasi of Dirshu, Rav Dovid Hofstedter, uncommon, however, for the Chofetz brought a copy of the new Chelek Gimel Chaim to elaborate on the reasons in his to the gedolei hador, Rav Aharon Leib commentaries, Shaar Hatziyun and Biur Shteinman, Rav Shmuel Wosner, Rav Halachah. Additionally, these commen- Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz, the Gerer taries present halachic rulings not con- Rebbe, and Rav Gershon Edelstein all, in tained in the Mishnah Berurah which their own way, were amazed at the shed insight on the topic at hand. In a ‘kankan chadash, mallei Yashan’—the wonderfully cogent, concise manner, the new creation that will open the eyes of Biurim part of the Dirshu Mishnah the contemporary learner to the timeless Berurah cites these rulings, thereby Rav Aharon Leib Shteinman, shlita. Rav Chaim Kanievsky, shlita. halachos of Shabbos. They expressed affording the learner a quick, comprehen- their deepest admiration for the amazing sive listing of related halachic rulings and creation of Chelek Gimel of the Dirshu explanations as ruled by the Chofetz Shulchan Aruch and poskim. The Dirshu Rov, Rav Moshe Feinstein, Rav Yaakov Mishnah Berurah. Chaim himself in his other sefarim. edition of the Mishnah Berurah brings Kamenetzky, the Steipler Gaon, Rav Indeed, the Dirshu Mishnah Berurah thousands of rulings from the gedolei Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, and even has become so popular that its wide- Likutei Teshuvos: haposkim of the last generation as well as our current poskim, ybl’ch, Hagaonim spread use is by no means limited to Current Rulings Concurrently from contemporary poskim, each in its Rav Yosef Sholom Elyashiv, Rav Dirshu Halachah L’Bais Yisroel partici- Perhaps the most exciting component proper place in the Mishnah Berurah. The Shmuel Wosner, Rav Chaim Kanievsky, pants. The new Mishnah Berurah, with its of the new Dirshu Mishnah Berurah is the learner is therefore enabled to learn not and Rav Nissim Karelitz. In addition, special Biurim U’Musafim section, has “Likutei Teshuvos” part of the Biurim only the words of the Mishnah Berurah all of the Chazon Ish’s rulings that per- become an invaluable learning aid for U’Musafim section. The Chofetz Chaim but also to know and understand the rul- tain to the words of the Mishnah anyone wanting to seriously learn completed the Mishnah Berurah in 1907. ings of the great poskim on thousands of Berurah are brought in the Dirshu halachah l’maaseh to gain a working Over the past century, technological modern practical questions while simul- Mishnah Berurah. knowledge of contemporary halachah. advances and countless questions rele- taneously understanding how these mod- Another integral component in The Chazon Ish (Igeres Chazon Ish-41) vant to today’s lifestyles have arisen. This ern day rulings have their source in the Dirshu’s Mishnah Berurah comes from wrote, “The rulings of the Mishnah is especially true with regard to the hala- original words of the Shulchan Aruch and the personal sifrei Mishnah Berurah Berurah are akin to rulings by the chos of Shabbos, where the constantly Mishnah Berurah! provided to Dirshu by many of the Sanhedrin in the Lishkas Hagazis.” evolving technology has engendered The rulings included in the Dirshu gedolei hador with handwritten notes Dirshu, through its editions of the thousands of new halachic questions and Mishnah Berurah are from such in the margins. These notes of Mishnah Berurah, has just enriched that rulings. All of these rulings are of course revered poskim as Hagaonim Rav Hagaonim Rav Dov Landau, rosh yeshi- unique access to the Sanhedrin in the rooted in the original words of the Chaim Ozer Grodzensky, the Chebiner va of Slabodka, Rav Yehoshua Lishkas Hagazis! O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 79 Baldwin. On Saturday, July 10, between entered Petro Convenience Store located the hours of 12:47 p.m. and 2:45 p.m., the at 4305 Austin Boulevard. The subject victim’s wallet, containing an American requested some items to purchase and Express Card and MasterCard, was stolen upon the salesperson turning his back, from inside a locker in the men’s bath- the suspect was seen on video removing room at Synergy Fitness Club located at money from the counter. The subject 830 Atlantic Avenue. The subject was then paid for the requested items and observed using the credit cards to make left the store in a vehicle in a north- unauthorized purchases at Roosevelt bound direction on Austin Boulevard. Field Mall Stores (Nordstrom, Macy’s, and The subject is described as a white male, Zales Jewelers). The subject is described approximately 5’10,” 200 pounds, and as a black male, approximately 20-25 wearing a white T-shirt with a blue years old, wearing a blue or black baseball denim shirt over it. The vehicle is a gray, cap, a blue pullover shirt with white trim late model Honda Civic. and the number 18 printed on it, and Long Beach. Within the past two black pants. weeks there have been four residential Freeport. On Sunday, September 19, burglaries in the west end of Long at approximately 9:40 p.m., the victim Beach. These burglaries were committed was on Broadway when he was assault- on Maryland Ave, Wyoming Ave, ed by two subjects. The subjects chased Alabama Street, and Kentucky Street. the victim on foot westbound on They were committed during business Broadway and caught him in front of 95 hours, usually early in the morning. Broadway. The victim was knocked to These homes are entered through either the ground and stabbed in the chest, as a side or rear unlocked window, or by well as punched and kicked, while he pushing in an air conditioner. Subject; is was on the ground. The victim died as a described as male white, late twenties to result of the injuries. The subjects are early thirties, approximately 5’ 11” tall, both described as Hispanic males, with brown hair. between 20-25 years of age, with a thin Roosevelt. On Sunday, September 19, at build and long black hair. One of them approximately 8:15 p.m., the victim had a black bike. walked out of the A1 Food Mart located at Island Park. On Monday, September 266 Babylon Turnpike. As he turned onto 13, at approximately 9:37 p.m., the subject Thoma Place, he was shot and is in seri-

80 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES ous condition. After the victim was shot, the subject stole the victim’s cell phone and U.S. cur- rency. The subject is described as a black male, in his late teens to early 20’s, with a small build and armed with a revolver. O

Crime Stoppers is asking anyone with information about these crimes to call the toll free hotline: 1-800-244-TIPS (8477). There is up to a $5,000 reward available. All calls remain anonymous.

AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 60 The Joyful Heart: Bikur Cholim Tools to Uplift the Spirit, November 14 The 23rd Annual Bikur Cholim Conference will take place at the UJA-Federation of New York, 130 E. 59th Street, November 14, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. With three powerful speakers and 15 workshops to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Learn practical skills for life! Visit www.bikurcholimcc.org to learn more. O

In the six hundredth year of Noach’s life…all the fountains of the great deep broke open, and the windows of heaven were opened (Bereishis 7:11)

[This alludes that] in the sixth century of the sixth millennium [from creation; 1740–1840 in the secular calendar], the gates of supernal wisdom will be opened, as will the springs of earthly wisdom, preparing the world to be elevated in the seventh millennium.

(Zohar)

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 81 Rebbe Nachman’s 200th Yahrzeit Observance In 5Towns Photos By Ivan H. Norman

A festive Siyum/Seudah in honor of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov’s 200th Yahrzeit took place on Sunday evening Chol Hamoed Sukkos, 18th of Tishrei, hosted by Rabbi Yaacov and Mrs. Chani Schwartz of Lawrence. Speakers included Rabbi Boruch Klein, Reb Eliezer Einhorn, and Rabbi Schwartz. The Seudah included song, dance, a Siyum Mishnayos, a Siyum Masechet, and Divrei Torah from Likutei Maharan. A large group of men, women, and children participated.

82 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES October 8, 2010 83 84 October 8, 2010 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES