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VOLUME XIII, NUMBER 24 DECEMBER 10, 2020 Zelensky announces Ukraine-Israel free-trade agreement to take effect in January BY JNS STAFF market on many items that until now and Ukraine will double to $2 billion, (JNS) – A free trade agreement were subject to customs tax, including according to Zhovka. between Israel and Ukraine will take machinery, medical equipment, plastic “As a result, more quality Ukrainian effect beginning January 1, Ukrainian and rubber products, chemicals, fruits and products will arrive in Israel next year, President Vladimir Zelensky posted on vegetables, and more. including sweets, nuts, juices, baked his Twitter account. “Relations between In return, Israel will abolish or reduce goods, poultry, dairy products, vegetable our countries are rising to a new level,” customs taxes on various agricultural oils, eggs, honey and more. In a few years, he wrote. “This gives a ‘green light’ to products, including wheat (currently the elimination of customs will lead to an Ukraine’s export growth, and creates subject to 50 percent tax), fish, processed increased supply of flour, ketchup, tomato closer cooperation in the fields of high- foods, various types of oils, iron, steel paste, seeds, tobacco and duck meat to tech, engineering and investment.” and other raw materials for industrial use. Israel. Israeli consumers can expect lower Originally signed in January 2019, the Ukraine is among the world’s largest Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky prices on all of these products,” he added. agreement promotes the development of exporters of grains and industrial raw and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in According to the Ministry of Econo- bilateral trade and economic cooperation materials. It is the largest exporter of sun- Israel on January 24. (Photo courtesy my and Industry, exports from Israel to between the two countries, and reduces flower and cotton seeds (used to produce of Wikimedia Commons) Ukraine in 2017 totaled $130 million, with tariffs on Israeli exports to Ukraine and oil) in the world; sixth-largest exporter a total trade volume of approximately $940 on Ukrainian imports to Israel. of wheat; fourth-largest exporter of corn expansion of mutual trade,” said Zelen- million. The main industries exporting The move is expected to reduce the and barley; and fourth-largest exporter of sky’s Deputy Chief of Staff Ihor Zhovkva. goods from Israel to Ukraine are chemicals cost of food in Israel, particularly relevant industrial semi-processed iron and steel. It is estimated that within the next (50.6 percent), plastics and rubber (13.9 amid the current economic crisis. The new agreement should also benefit two to three years, trade between Israel percent) and machinery (9.1 percent). “This agreement will help lower the Israeli exporters. For example, customs cost of living in both countries, and will duties will be eliminated on plastic irri- serve to promote Ukrainian industry,” gation pipes, as well as on avocados and noted Israeli Ambassador to Ukraine Joel peppers. In the past five years, duties on How Beersheva plans to be Lion, responding to the announcement. Israeli wines were gradually reduced to The agreement includes reduced tar- 0 percent. iffs on exports from Israel to Ukraine, as “The main purpose of the agreement a hub of desert technology well as on products imported to Israel. is to strengthen economic cooperation It provides free access to the Ukrainian between Ukraine and Israel through the BY BRIAN BLUM 1965, is the global leader in drip irriga- (Israel21c via JNS) – Israel’s Negev tion. Since the mid-2000s, Israel reversed desert has long attracted scientists, envi- years of drought-fueled water scarcity ronmentalists and solar energy enthusiasts by building state-of-the-art desalination seeking Israel’s know-how on combating plants. The country now gets 55 percent desertification. A new initiative, DeserTech, of its domestic water from desalination aims to transform that activity into an active and, as Seth Siegel stresses in his book networking community. “Let There Be Water,” could become a DeserTech is intended to bring together water exporter. entrepreneurs, investors, academics, stu- See “Desert” on page 3 dents and government institutions in the city of Beersheva, at the northern tip of the Negev. Beersheva has the world’s only 2021 UJA Innovation Center for Climate Change, specializing in desert technology. Innovation districts like this one are Pay it forward & give to the 2021 Jewish Federation meant to shift innovation development of Northeastern Pennsylvania from a suburban area accessible only Annual Campaign! by car to a transit-accessible urban setting close to clusters of companies, Goal: organizations and mixed-use housing $970,000 and retail.

Within a radius of little more than a For information or to kilometer, Beersheva boasts a high-tech make a donation call 570-961-2300 ext. 1 or park, university, hospital and train station. send your gift to: “The prime minister’s office realized Jewish Federation of Northeastern this was a huge opportunity to create a Pennsylvania hub for startups,” said Doron Meller, vice 601 Jefferson Ave., president of the Israel Innovation Institute Scranton, PA 18510 $379,678 (Please MEMO your as of Nov. 30, 2020 (not to be confused with the govern- pledge or gift 2021 ment-backed Israel Innovation Authority). UJA Campaign) Meller’s organization has teamed up with the David and Laura Merage Founda- tion to help give Beersheva’s burgeoning innovation district a leg up. Nicole Hod Stroh, executive director of the Merage Foundation in Israel, points out that Israel has been working on ways to innovate in an arid climate since the early days of the state. Candle lighting Israeli pioneer Netafim, founded in December 11...... 4:15 pm December 18...... 4:17 pm INSIDE THIS ISSUE December 25...... 4:21 pm Hanukkah Hannah Senesh You’re a Wizard, Deni January 1...... 4:26 pm Janaury 8...... 4:33 pm Online Hanukkah events are noted The complete literary archive Israeli Deni Avdija was picked by in “Jewish resources”; recipes; of Hanah Senesh is now at the the Washington Wizards in the PLUS and more. National Library of Israel. NBA Draft 2020. Opinion...... 2 Stories on pages 4, 5, 8 Story on page 6 Story on page 10 D’var Torah...... 8 2 THE REPORTER ■ DECEMBER 10, 2020 A MATTER OF OPINION Remembering two forgotten heroes: Ben Hecht and Peter Bergson BY STEVE FRANK in Berlin in January 1942. Jew” only in 1939. This was when he met of the nation, were silent.” (JNS) – On November 25, 1942, a Although it had long been suspected, Bergson, a leader of the Irgun underground Toward the end of the war, the Roo- five-paragraph article, buried on page 10 news of the final solution was officially militia determined to recreate a Jewish sevelt administration even refused to of The New York Times, confirmed the confirmed to the outside world via a tele- state in the ancient homeland of Israel. bomb the railroad tracks leading to the deaths at that time of two million Jews gram sent on August 8, 1942, by Gerhard Bergson, a charismatic 25-year-old and gas chambers. The remnants of Europe’s in Nazi-controlled Europe and warned of Riegner, the World Jewish Congress rep- nephew of Israel’s first chief rabbi, had Jews were lost to history. the perilous plight of the remaining four resentative in Geneva, to the U.S. govern- come to America to promote the muscular Following the war, Hecht’s 1946 play, million. The final solution was no longer ment. The cable confirmed the deaths of Revisionist Zionism of Vladimir Ze’ev “A Flag is Born,” featuring Paul Muni and a secret, if it ever had been. two million Jews in Europe thus far and Jabotinsky and to raise awareness about an unknown Marlon Brando, who played The news was, for the most part, ignored, revealed the existence of a comprehensive the plight of Jews during the Holocaust. a Treblinka survivor, helped finance the except by two men whose lives are largely German plan to murder the remaining four He sensed a potential ally in Hecht and purchase of a ship, renamed the SS Ben forgotten now: Ben Hecht, an acclaimed million Jews of Europe. reached out and arranged a meeting at Hecht, which made a 1947 voyage to American-Jewish playwright, and Peter The reaction to this momentous news the 21 Club, Hecht’s favorite Manhattan Israel with 800 survivors. The ship was Bergson, an underground fighter in pre- in the United States was general indiffer- hangout. A “force of nature” with a “small intercepted on the way to Palestine by the state Israel. They joined forces to produce ence. The U.S. State Department initially blonde mustache, an English accent and British, and the passengers were interned a pageant in Madison Square Garden in sought to block the news and prevailed a voice inclined to squeak under excite- on the island of Cyprus. March 1943 designed to save the four mil- upon Rabbi Stephen Wise, a prominent ment” was Hecht’s impression of Berg- Hecht, whose career in Manhattan and lion Jews still alive under Nazi occupation. Jewish leader – who had also received a son after that first encounter. They were Hollywood had climbed to new heights It’s worth taking a moment to reflect on copy of the cable – to remain quiet. an odd couple, but a perfect match, the of success in the 1930s, sabotaged his who they were and what they tried to do. When the news finally was made screenwriter and the promoter. professional life by castigating the United The dreadful fate of the Jews of Europe public 78 years ago this November, it On March 9, 1943, just months after the States for failing to stop the Holocaust. In was hardly hidden. Adolf Hitler’s genocid- was relegated to back pages of major Riegner telegram had warned the world of 1964, he died suddenly of a heart attack at al plans for the Jews were foreshadowed newspapers, and the Roosevelt adminis- the imminent threat to the remaining Jews age 70 in New York and was eulogized by in his autobiography “Mein Kamp” as tration abandoned the remaining Jews to of Europe, the Bergson Group produced the Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, early as 1925. Once he became chancellor their gruesome fate. The appalling apathy lavish afore-mentioned pageant in Madison who said: “Ben Hecht wielded his pen like of Germany in 1933, he implemented his of the American government, the media Square Garden, written by Ben Hecht, titled a drawn sword.” plan in stages. and American-Jewish leaders toward the “We Will Never Die,” memorializing the Bergson served in Israel’s first Knesset The Nuremberg Laws of 1935 stripped plight of the Jews in Europe has been well Jews who had already been murdered. (parliament), but eventually grew disillu- Jews of their citizenship and all civil rights. documented in such books as “While Six The show was directed by Moss Hart sioned with politics. He was especially Jewish businesses were ransacked and set Million Died,” “The Abandonment of the and featured a full orchestra, a choir, lavish disappointed with Israel’s failure to write on fire during Kristallnacht (the “Night Jews,” “Buried by the Times” and, most scenery and a gigantic cast of more than a constitution to protect the rights of all of Broken Glass”) in November 1938. recently, “The Jews Should be Quiet.” 1,000 performers, including Paul Muni, Israeli citizens, Arabs and Jews. Until his Ghettos and labor camps were created When the world ignored the dire warn- Edgar G. Robinson, Frank Sinatra and death at age 86 outside Tel Aviv in 2001, across German-occupied Europe to facil- ing of the Riegner cable, the stage was Sylvia Sidney. Music was provided by he continued his campaign for an Israeli itate the deportations to the death camps set for the execution of the final solution. noted German composer Kurt Weil. De- constitution built on a strong division to come. The extermination of Jews, the Enter Hecht and Bergson. At the time, mand for tickets was so high that they put between synagogue and state. “Final Solution,” was approved by senior Hecht was an acclaimed American screen- on an extra performance and broadcast it Since the end of the Holocaust, the slogan Nazi officials at the Wannsee Conference writer, director, producer, playwright, through loudspeakers to a crowd of 20,000 “never again” has been popular. And yet, journalist and novelist. He wrote 35 books that gathered outside the sold-out venue. twice in our lifetime, millions of Jews have (including his celebrated autobiography, “A Forty thousand people saw the pageant been threatened with extinction – during the Child of the Century”) and well more than that first night, and it went on to play in five 1967 Six-Day War and the 1973 Yom Kippur 70 of the most entertaining screenplays and other major cities, including Washington, War – while the world stood idly by as it did plays in America. These included “Front DC, where first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, during the Shoah. Even today, the antisemitic Page,” “Scarface,” “It’s a Wonderful six Supreme Court justices and some 300 regime in Iran repeatedly threatens to annihi- “ The Reporter” (USPS #482) is published bi-weekly by the Jewish Federation of Northeastern Pennsylvania, 601 Jefferson World,” Alfred Hitchcock’s “Spellbound” members of Congress watched it. late Israel and its now 6.8 million Jews. And Ave., Scranton, PA 18510. and “Notorious,” “The Shop Around the In spite of the momentary popularity the incoming Biden administration promises President: Esther Adelman Corner,” “Foreign Correspondent,” “The of their pageant, Hecht and Bergson were to re-engage with Iran. Executive Director: Mark Silverberg Sun Also Rises,” “Mutiny on the Bounty,” disappointed in the results. As composer Where are the Ben Hechts and Peter “Casino Royale,” “The Greatest Show on Weill noted afterward: “The pageant has Bergsons of today? Executive Editor: Rabbi Rachel Esserman Earth” and “Gone With the Wind.” accomplished nothing. Actually, all we Steve Frank is an attorney, retired after Layout Editor: Diana Sochor Advertising Representative: Corin Porter He was nominated for six Academy have done is make a lot of Jews cry, which a 30-year career as an appellate lawyer Bookkeeper: Kathy Brown Awards and won twice. The Dictio- is not a unique accomplishment.” with the U.S. Department of Justice in Production Associate: Christi Sturdevant nary of Literary Biography: American Hecht later wrote in “A Child of the Washington, DC. His writings on Israel, Screenwriters calls him “one of the most Century”: “The Americanized Jews the law and architecture have appeared OPINIONS The views expressed in successful screenwriters in the history of who ran newspapers and movie studios, in numerous publications, including The editorials and opinion pieces are those motion pictures.” who wrote plays and novels, who were Washington Post, The Chicago Tribune, of each author and not necessarily the views of the Jewish Federation of A secular Jew, born of Russian-Jewish high in government and powerful in the The Jerusalem Post, The Times of Israel Northeastern Pennsylvania. immigrants, Hecht joked that he “became a financial, industrial and even social life and Moment magazine. LETTERS The Reporter welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be signed and include a phone number. A chance to right a historical wrong The editor may withhold the name BY GILAD ERDAN upon request. The United Nations has never done immense injustice inflicted on our people. ADS The Reporter does not necessar- (JNS) – Some 850,000 Jews have been anything to acknowledge the gross injustice I intend to submit a draft resolution on the ily endorse any advertised products deported from Arab countries and Iran, but inflicted on our brethren, who were assault- matter to the U.N. Secretariat and use the and services. In addition, the paper their stories are not heard in E.U. meetings ed, murdered and robbed of their property ties I have already fostered with many is not responsible for the kashruth of and their photos cannot be found hanging by the Arab states they called home. ambassadors to mobilize broad support. any advertiser’s product or establish- in exhibitions in the corridors of the United In the decades since the deportation of If the international community truly ment. Nations. Their names are not mentioned in Jews from those countries, the United Na- seeks to promote peace between Israel DEADLINE Regular deadline is two the thousands of U.N. resolutions of recent tions has worked to help only “Palestinian and its neighbors, it must recognize the weeks prior to the publication date. decades, and the international community refugees.” UNRWA, the U.N. agency for historical truth and injustice inflicted on has not earmarked an annual date to mark Palestinian refugees, has received tens of Arab Jewry. The discourse we will foster in FEDERATION WEBSITE: their plight. billions of dollars for the welfare of these the United Nations may not change history, www.jewishnepa.org The United Nations may see them as refugees and their families. But these funds but it will restore the respect they deserve HOW TO SUBMIT ARTICLES: “negligible” refugees – but we do not. have also gone toward encouraging terrorism and recognize the decades-long injustice. Mail: 601 Jefferson Ave., Scranton, PA After their failure to prevent the estab- and incitement, and they perpetuate the false The Abraham Accords are a ray of 18510 lishment of the state of Israel, and as part narrative of the Palestinian “right of return.” light for the thousands of Jews currently E-mail: [email protected] of the Arab outrage after the November I see it as the moral duty of the state of living in Arab states. The rapprochement Fax: (570) 346-6147 29, 1947, decision setting the process in Israel, and as my own duty, to fight to right between Israel, Bahrain and the United Phone: (570) 961-2300 motion, Arab states launched war not only the wrong done to our brothers and sis- Arab Emirates – and soon, I hope, other against the newly formed Jewish state, but ters. As Israel’s ambassador to the United Arab countries, as well – should encour- HOW TO REACH THE also against the peaceful, thriving Jewish Nations and out of a deep commitment to age Arab leaders to support the Jewish ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: communities living in their midst. them, I will work to raise awareness of the communities in their countries and allow Phone: (800) 779-7896, ext. 244 Entire communities in Morocco, Iraq, issue among the international community. them to proudly celebrate their heritage. E-mail: [email protected] Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Iran and other This proposal does not mean to pro- Gilad Erdan is Israel’s ambassador to SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: countries were “erased” and with them, voke strife with our neighbors, rather to the United Nations. Phone: (570) 961-2300 thousands of years of heritage, culture and see justice is served and to bring about This article first appeared in Israel history were obliterated. equality in the world’s approach to the Hayom. DECEMBER 10, 2020 ■ THE REPORTER 3 Netanyahu, Abu Dhabi crown prince nominated for Nobel Peace Prize BY JNS STAFF cause,” he said that therefore the Israeli and UAE leaders and peace for peoples across the region.” (JNS) – Former First Minister of Northern Ireland deserve the same recognition. In conclusion, Trumble wrote that despite resis- Lord David Trimble has nominated Israeli Prime Minister He went on to state: “Despite decades of intensive tance from the Palestinian leadership, the “changing Benjamin Netanyahu and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mo- efforts, until now peace between Israel and Arab nations paradigm” in the region resulting from the Abraham hammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the 2021 Nobel Peace has proved elusive. Four major wars have been fought Accords stood the best chance of encouraging the Prize, according to a statement from Netanyahu’s office. between Israel and Arab states, and Israel has been Palestinians to reach a lasting accommodation with Trimble won the prize himself in 1998 for his efforts subjected to countless terrorist attacks, leading on four the state of Israel. to find a solution to the conflict in Northern Ireland. As a further occasions to major conflicts between Israel and “I know from my own experience how dangerous, Nobel laureate, his nomination of Netanyahu and Prince Palestinian Arabs. In the 72 years since the foundation damaging and corrosive are decades of violent ill-will bin Zayed will lead the Norwegian Nobel Committee to of the modern state of Israel in 1948, until recently only between close neighbours and I wish for nothing more discuss the issue. two Arab countries made peace with Israel: Egypt in 1979 than to see peace between Israelis and Palestinians. I The announcement comes less than a month after a and Jordan in 1994. In the last few weeks, three more believe this comes within closer reach as a direct result ministerial delegation from the United Arab Emirates countries, the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s and Crown Prince bin landed in Israel for the first-ever official visit from the Bahrain and the Republic of the Sudan, have all agreed Zayed’s leadership. Gulf state following the September 15 signing of the to normalize relations with Israel: the first such peace “Award of the Peace Prize will not only recognise the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords with the UAE and deals in 26 years. achievements of these men, but will also serve to encour- Bahrain at the White House. “These far-reaching achievements are the result of age a widening and deepening peace in the Middle East. I In a November 20 letter to the Nobel Committee, the courageous leadership, diplomatic energies and re- strongly urge governments everywhere and international Trimble explained that he was nominating Netanyahu and lentless pursuit of peace by Prime Minister Netanyahu bodies such as the United Nations and European Union bin Zayed “in recognition of their historic achievements and Crown Prince bin Zayed. There is every likelihood to play their own roles by supporting and advancing the in advancing peace in the Middle East.” that the work of these two leaders, which continues, will foundations laid by Prime Minister Netanyahu, Crown Noting that U.S. President Donald Trump “has already encourage further Middle Eastern states to join them in Prince bin Zayed and the others involved in the Abraham been nominated for the prize for his contributions to this normalising relations, leading to much needed prosperity Accords,” he wrote.

Desert Continued from page 1 Nevertheless, what’s been missing is a formal com- portunity in the sense that they can benefit from Israeli munity where everyone can connect, share knowledge, technology and Israel can benefit from technology and promote new ideas and sell the latest products via solutions from the Gulf,” she added. conferences, bootcamps, Facebook groups and weekly Meller was more cautious. “We see Israelis taking meetups – whether in-person or virtually. photos in Abu Dhabi, but it will take some time. We “We want to position the Negev as a world center for don’t know this market so deeply yet.” desert-tech solutions,” said Meller. Time, like rain in a desert climate, is a precious com- The Israel Innovation Institute is considered an ideal modity. As the world becomes more arid, the downsides partner for helping to build such a community. The NGO, of desertification may finally have the vehicle to become founded in 2011, already runs communities including commercial advantages – straight from the heart of HealthIL (all things medical, with 7,500 members), Beersheva. GrowingIL (Israel’s ag-tech community, with 3,500 This article was first published by Israel21c. members) and EcoMotion (a mobility community with 12,000 members). Energy innovation in Israel’s Negev Desert. (Photo Merage, meanwhile, has been promoting desert-based courtesy of DeserTech) social endeavors for 20 years, including the InDNegev music festival and Yoga Arava, both of which, pre- nearby Gimmel and Daled neighborhoods of Beersheva DEADLINES COVID-19, would bring thousands of Israelis to the are slated for urban renewal. Ben-Gurion Boulevard, The following are deadlines for all articles and country’s South. which runs the length of the district, will become a photos for upcoming Reporter issues. Other Merage programs in the region include the street bustling with urban life, fashioned after Tel Aviv’s DEADLINE ISSUE Yeruham Bicycle Center, the Negev Jobs website and Rothschild Boulevard. Thursday, December 24...... January 7 the Merage Medical Center in Dimona. Merage has a The Construction and Housing Ministry has already $3 million budget for all its programs in Israel, Hod invested in the initial planning for the project. Thursday, January 7...... January 21 Stroh says. With the signing of the Abraham Accords over the Thursday, January 21...... February 4 The DeserTech community will encompass Ben-Gu- summer, will members of the DeserTech community Thursday, February 4...... February 18 rion University, Soroka Medical Center, the Jewish be building bridges with the United Arab Emirates National Fund and the Beersheva municipality. The and Bahrain? Ministry of Environmental Protection and Start-Up “There’s a lot of interest, it’s very real,” said Hod Nation Central are expected to join, as well. Stroh, with “concrete leads of people looking to see At the heart of the physical DeserTech community how they can invest. Warm Chanukah is the Beersheva innovation district – 650 acres includ- “We want to make sure this is a truly bilateral op- ing the Gav Yam Negev Advanced Technologies Park, Wishes the Israel National Cyber Directorate and the planned from home for Israel Defense Forces divisions relocating to Beersheva. A train connects the district directly to Tel About the cover Aviv in 90 minutes. This year’s Hanukkah cover was illustrated by In keeping with other innovation districts, such as the Art Edel, a freelance artist and graphic designer who industrial zone in Barcelona’s renovated Poblenou, the lives and works in Savannah, GA. YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!

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ÊCheck out the Federation’s new, updated website at www.jewishnepa.org or find it on Facebook 4 THE REPORTER ■ DECEMBER 10, 2020 Jewish resources to occupy your family during social distancing – part 17 BY REPORTER STAFF field” on Saturday, December 12, at 8 pm. Secret Jews of Majorca Island” with Dani register?reset=1&id=314. To sign up for the A variety of Jewish groups are offering The museum will induct Harry Houdini Rotstein on Tuesday, December 15, from Sunday, January 3, session, which will be online resources – educational and recre- and David Copperfield into its Ed Snider 1-2:15 pm; “Sights, Sounds and Symbols held from 7-8:15 pm, visit https://aleph.org/ ational – for those who are not allowed Only in America Gallery®/Hall of Fame. of our Beloved Snoa: A Cultural Glimpse civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=315. out of the house. Below is a sampling of For more information or to register, visit into Sephardi Jewish Curaçao” with Rab- ‹ ALEPH will hold “Light It Up: A Cha- those. The Reporter will publish additional www.nmajh.org/houdini-and-copperfield/. bi Georgette Kennebrae on Wednesday, nukah Concert with Mikey Pauker” on listings as they become available. ‹ The Museum of the Jewish People is December 16, from noon-1:15 pm; and Sunday, December 13, from 7:30-8:30 pm. ‹ YIVO Institute for Jewish Research will offering a new initiative called Foodish. “Light Out of Darkness: A Journey of The program will be hosted by Rabbinic hold the virtual program “Ashkenazi Jews The initiative’s mission is to promote a Transformation and Hope for the Close of Pastor/Cantor Lisa Levine. For more infor- and Chinese Food” on Tuesday, December sense of belonging and reinforce Jewish Hanukkah” with Rabbi Michael Zimmer- mation or to register, visit https://aleph.org/ 22, at 1 pm. The program will trace the identity through engagement with Jewish man in Germany on Thursday, December civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=320. history of the Jewish affinity for Chinese food. It will include user generated family 17, from 1-2:15 pm. For more information ‹ The ninth annual Adrienne Cooper food from the turn-of-the-century Lower stories, descriptions of communities and or to register, visit https://ritualwell.org/ Dreaming in Yiddish Memorial Concert East Side to today’s take-out lo mein with heritage, and recipes. To learn more and immersion/soulcation-global-jewish-tour- and Award event will be streamed from Andrew Coe, author of “Chop Suey: A sign up for its newsletter, visit https:// comfort-your-home. the Museum of Jewish Heritage Safra Cultural History of Chinese Food in the foodish.network/en/. ‹ The Town and Village Synagogue will Hall, and broadcast exclusively through United States.” For more information or to ‹ The Jewish Theological Seminary will celebrate the third night of Hanukkah with Yiddish New York on Sunday, December register, visit www.yivo.org/Chinese-Food. hold several online events: “Mitzvot and a community lighting and community sing 27, at 8 pm. For more information, visit ‹ The Center for Jewish History will hold the Path to Human Flourishing” on Mon- on Saturday, December 12, at 7:30 pm. www.yiddishnewyork.com. To purchase the virtual programs “Writing Between day, December 14, from 1-2:30 pm, about The concert will feature Yiddish vocalist a ticket, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/ Tongues: An Exploration of Hebrew and medieval decisor and philosopher Moses Anthony Mordechai Tzvi Russell, Town yiddish-new-york-evening-events-sun- Arabic Calligraphy” on Thursday, Decem- Maimonides; and “The Book Smugglers and Village’s Cantor Shayna Postman and day-tickets-127787211991. ber 17, at noon. For more information or of the Vilna Ghetto: Choosing a Life on the synagogues choir and Junior Singers. ‹ The University of Pennsylvania Press to register, visit https://programs.cjh.org/. Meaning Under the Specter of Death” on Registration is required. The cost is $28 for will hold a presentation of Michael A. ‹ Lessons from BINAH: Building Monday, December 21, from 1-2:30 pm. early bird tickets (by Friday, December 11); Meyer’s new book, “Rabbi Leo Baeck: Insights to Navigate Antisemitism and For more information or to register, visit $36 general admission; $10 students; and Living a Religious Imperative in Troubled Hate are available for teachers of grades http://www.jtsa.edu/events-calendar. free for those under 18. For more information Times,” featuring Meyer in conversation kindergarten-12 at https://everfi.com/ ‹ Ritual Well will hold a seven-part virtual or to register, visit https://jewishweek.time- with Penn Press Senior Editor Jerry courses/k-12/binah/. “Soulcation: A Global Jewish Tour from the sofisrael.com/event/chanukah-concert/. Singerman on Monday, December 14, at ‹ Kung Pao Kosher Comedy will hold Comfort of Your Home” programs. The cost ‹ The Congress for Jewish Culture will 12:15 pm. To register for the event, visit virtual comedy shows from December is $36 per session; register for all seven and present an online production of Sh. Ansky’s https://primetime.bluejeans.com/a2m/ 24-26. The shows are labeled “Kung Pao get one free. All sessions will be recorded “Der Dibek” (The Dybbuk, or, Between register/kesjjpgh. Kosher Comedy™ – Jewish comedy on and available for those who can’t see them Two Worlds), on Monday, December 14, ‹ The 2021 YIVO-Bard Winter Program Christmas in a Chinese Restaurant in San live. The sessions include “Shining Our at 7 pm. The play will be performed in on Ashkenazi Civilization, “At the Turning Francisco, CA,” but are virtual this year. Inner Light on Hanukkah” with Rabbi Yiddish with English subtitles and English Point,” will be held online from January There is a cost to attend. For more infor- Hannah Nathans in The Netherlands on narration. Visit https://jewishweek.time- 5-22. The deadline for registration is mation, visit www.koshercomedy.com/. Thursday, December 10, from 1-2:15 pm; sofisrael.com/event/sh-anskys-der-dibek/ Monday, December 28. It will explores ‹ The National Museum of American “Reading a Winter Psalm in Jerusalem” for a link to the Facebook page that will moments of critical transformation Jewish History will hold the virtual event with Rabbi Gail Diamond on Monday, feature a link to the play. throughout the 20th century and beyond, “Only in America: Houdini and Copper- December 14, from 1-2:15 pm; “ The ‹ The National Museum of Jewish Amer- while considering key inflection points in ican History will hold a virtual version the realms of politics and culture. Among of its annual fun day on December 25. the topics to be covered are Stalin’s sei- This year’s event is called “Being ---- at zure of power and the growth of tyranny Christmas.” It will begin at 10 am with throughout the world; Yiddish children’s a live concert. Other activities will be literature; the work of Argentine writer, available throughout the day. Links to essayist and poet Jorge Luis Borges; those activities will be made available on Ashkenazi heritage at the Metropolitan that day at www.nmajh.org/December25/ Museum of Art; and the deliberate destruc- or on the museum’s Facebook page. tion of books across millennia. For more ‹ Registration for Pardes Institute for information or to register, visit https:// Jewish Studies spring 2021 classes is open. yivo.org/Winter-Program. Classes include “Halakha in an Egalitarian ‹ NewCAJE will hold a “Hanukkah Party Age, Women and Kaddish,Tefilin, Megilla and Tea Time” on Wednesday, December Reading, Hair Covering and more”; “A 16, at 8 pm. The program will feature can- Shattered World: from WWI to the rise of dle lighting, a Hanukkah story and music the State of Israel”; “The Changing Face by Eliana Light. To register, visit https:// of Self and Society in the 21st Century”; “ zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwscOu- David and Saul: Jealousy, Pursuit and the vqDksG9zkyvJCsiaxGnQnN33ef4Oc. Challenge of Morality (II Samuel)”; High- ‹ The Association for Jewish Studies lights of the weekly Daf Yomi: Massechet is launching AJS TV, which offers free Pesachim”; “How does Halakha Work?”; online access to select sessions at the and “Israeli Poetry as a Window to Israeli upcoming AJS Annual Conference, to Society and History.” For more information be held virtually December 13-17. The (including times and cost) or to register, public is invited to attend 15 conference visit https://www.tfaforms.com/4842665. sessions, featuring lectures, conversations ‹ ALEPH will hold the webinar “World and performances on wide-ranging top- is Changing and We Are Changing, Too: ics. For more information or to register, An Intergenerational Conversation for visit www.associationforjewishstudies. This Moment with Kohenet Keshira org/2020-annual-conference/program/ haLev Fife and Rabbi Eva Sax-Bolder.” public-conference-sessions. To sign up for the Sunday, December 20, For additional resources, see previous session, which will be held from 7- 8:15 issues of The Reporter on its website, pm, visit https://aleph.org/civicrm/event/ www.thereportergroup.org.

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Send Dassy Ganz an email if you would like to join the list. [email protected] DECEMBER 10, 2020 I THE REPORTER 5 The miracle of Hanukkah will go on BY ETHEL G. HOFMAN MY BEST BRISKET (MEAT) During World War II, when Britain was (JNS) – Jewish individuals and families around the Serves 6. world will light the fi rst Hanukkah candle after sundown battered and bombed by Nazi Germany, Cook’s tips: on December 10, marking the beginning of the eight- people were able to be together, to ‹ Three secrets for perfect brisket: marinate fi rst; braise day “Festival of Lights” and the start of the celebration sympathize with hugs and shoulders slowly in well-seasoned liquid; and let rest overnight in of a resounding story of freedom. In the mid-second to lean on. Not so during COVID, but we the gravy before reheating and serving. century B.C.E., the Greeks prohibited Jewish practices, ‹ Use a disposable oven-roasting bag – a kitchen item even circumcision. The last straw was when the Holy create that feeling virtually, as we also that Bubbe never had. Temple was converted into a pagan shrine, prompting light the candles from afar. ‹ Flat beer is fi ne. Judah Maccabee and his four brothers to lead a rebel- ¾ cup beer lion defeating the Syrian-Greek armies. The Temple 1/3 cup chili sauce was cleansed on the 25th day of the month of Kislev, solo or “bubble” groups. Sinfully rich, it’s a magic bullet 1 medium onion, thickly sliced and rededicated by Judah and his followers, who built guaranteed to soothe body and soul. 10-12 prepared baby carrots a new altar. A makeshift menorah was lit by a cruse of To a sweet and safe Hanukkah season! 10-12 button mushrooms, halved oil that was enough for one day but lasted for eight until PUMPKIN SUFGANIYOT (DAIRY) 2 bay leaves more was to be had. The tradition of cooking with oil Makes 6-8. Traditionally, Israeli sufganiyot, served 1 tsp. bottled minced garlic symbolic of that miracle. crisp and hot, have no fi lling. Pre-coronavirus, when 3½-4-pound brisket, trimmed of excess fat This Hanukkah is like no other in living memory. In traveling to Israel on El Al Airlines, baskets of sufganiyot Salt and pepper to sprinkle the midst of a deadly pandemic, family and friends are were off ered at ticket counters. Not so this year. Prepare a large size oven-roasting bag according to isolated. In-person hugs and kisses, laughter and hand- Cook’s tips: package directions. shakes, dreidel games and gifts of gelt are all missing. ‹ No deep-fry thermometer? Drop a 1-inch piece of Pour the beer, chili sauce, onion, carrots, mushrooms, But COVID-19 can’t stop us from celebrating. We’ll bread into the oil. If it takes 60 seconds to brown, the oil bay leaves and garlic into the bag and mix. order online from the comfort of home. Likely items is between 325-350°F. Or, stick end of a wooden spoon Sprinkle the brisket with salt and pepper. Add to the will include comfy pajamas, warm socks, soft blankets, into oil. When bubbles form and start to fl oat up, the oil bag spooning the beer mixture over top. sweatpants, board games and snack foods. We’ll share is ready for frying. Tie bag and place in a roasting pan large enough to dinners on Zoom and FaceTime to connect with family, ‹ Fry in small batches. Do not crowd. hold the brisket without it fl opping over the sides. Re- albeit virtually, exchanging recipes for the best latkes ‹ For the cinnamon-sugar: 2 teaspoons cinnamon to frigerate for 4 hours or overnight. and doughnuts. 2 tablespoons sugar. It stores well in a tightly covered Preheat oven to 325°F. During World War II, when Britain was battered and container at room temperature. Bake for 2½ hours or until a fork easily pierces the bombed by Nazi Germany, people were able to be to- 1¾ cups all-purpose fl our thickest part of the meat. gether, to sympathize with hugs and shoulders to lean on. 4 tsp. baking powder Cool slightly, then slice and arrange in a baking dish Forced to seek safety in air-raid shelters, seated shoulder 2 Tbsp. sugar along with the vegetables and gravy. Remove the bay to shoulder with gas masks slung over their shoulders, ¾ tsp. pumpkin-pie spice leaves. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. adults and children were comforted by a social intimacy. 1 egg, lightly beaten Shortly before serving, skim off any fat. Cover tightly They sang songs to keep up their spirits, entertained kids 1¼ cups vanilla yogurt with heavy foil. with stories, gossiped to add a degree of normalcy, and 2 Tbsp. canned pumpkin Heat through in a preheated 375°F oven, about 20 shared snacks and drinks until the all-clear siren sound- Vegetable or canola oil for frying minutes. Or reheat in a pot over medium heat, covered. ed. With mandatory night blackouts when there wasn’t Powdered or cinnamon-sugar to sprinkle POTATO LATKES FROM NORMANDY (PAREVE) a glimmer of light to be seen, friends walked along the In a medium bowl, stir the fl our, baking powder, sugar Serves 2. I fi rst tasted these latkes in Normandy, dark streets to neighbors for a cuppa (a good strong cup and pumpkin-pie spice. where butter was used instead of oil. Either way, these of tea) and a hand of whist (a card game). Make a well in the center. Add the egg, yogurt and two-ingredient latkes cook into a crunchy, thin pancake. Just about everything was rationed, including butter, pumpkin. Mix well. They are addictively delicious. sugar, meat and tea. Each person got one pound of sugar Cover and set aside for 15 to 20 minutes. Roll into Cook’s tips: per person per month – and that included candy. Marga- 1½-inch balls. ‹ Recipe may be doubled. Use two skillets for faster rine was substituted for butter. But Brits learned to cook In a large heavy saucepan or deep fryer, heat 2 inches cooking. overcoming severe shortages. Lentils substituted for meat oil to 345°F on a deep-fry thermometer. Gently slide in ‹ Serve with “No Cook” Apple-Raspberry Sauce. in shepherd’s pie; sponge cakes were prepared without dough balls without crowding. Lower the heat. 1 large baking potato eggs; vinegar, plus water, replaced yeast; and oil was in Cook until crisp and nicely browned, 2-3 minutes. 2 Tbsp. olive or vegetable oil short supply. Though we cannot be together this year, Turn often with a slotted spoon. Drain on paper towels. Salt and pepper our supermarkets are well-stocked with an abundance Toss in powdered or cinnamon-sugar. Scrub the potato. No need to peel. Shred on the large of ingredients to help us celebrate Hanukkah. Serve hot. holes of a box grater or better still, grate in the food With time on our hands and a bit of thought, we can Safer Baking Method: processor using the grating blade. establish new traditions. Set an example to be followed. With fl oured hands, roll the dough into 2-inch balls. In a 7-inch skillet, melt 1 tablespoon oil over medium Show kindness to neighbors, shop for the elderly who Brush with oil, then roll in cinnamon-sugar. heat. are living alone, make phone calls to shut-ins or, as I’ll Place on a greased baking tray. Spoon half of the potatoes into the hot oil. With a be doing, bake and cook for a local food bank. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-18 minutes. spatula, press evenly over the bottom of the skillet. Hanukkah dishes fried in oil are traditional. But young When done, sufganiyot will sound hollow when tapped Season lightly with salt and pepper. kids and a pot of hot oil can be a recipe for burns and on the bottom. See “Miracle” on page 10 tears. And children do want to help, so let them join in with the proper precautions. In the recipe for Pumpkin Sufganiyot, I’ve included baking instructions with plenty “hands-on” preparation. Sticky Toff ee Pudding, a British classic soaked in toff ee sauce, is baked in muffi n tins for

Warm Chanukah wishes to you and your family! Happy

Eileen Baine & Family Chanukah

Wishing the community a Happy Chanukah! Rabbi Rachel Esserman Check out the Federation’s new, updated website at www.jewishnepa.org or fi nd it on Facebook 6 THE REPORTER ■ DECEMBER 10, 2020 Archival collection of Hannah Senesh comes to National Library of Israel Jerusalem, where it will be made available to the public BY JNS STAFF and safeguarded along with the personal papers of other (JNS) – In 1944, the Jewish, Hungarian-born para- cultural figures, such as Martin Buber, Franz Kafka and trooper Hannah Senesh (Szenes) was parachuted into Naomi Shemer. occupied Europe by the British in a desperate attempt According to the Eisen family, “The Hannah Senesh to save Hungarian Jews from the Nazi death camps. Archive is a national treasure, and it is a blessing to Captured, tortured and executed shortly thereafter, her preserve it for the Jewish people and the world at large. story and her poems, including “A Walk to Caesarea” We are happy to have had the privilege to help.” (known popularly as “Eli, Eli”/”O Lord, My God”), have Despite her death at age 23, Senesh left behind a literary made Senesh into an iconic figure of modern Jewish, estate, including manuscripts, photos, documents, personal Israeli and Zionist culture. items and more. The Hannah Senesh Archival Collection A year after her execution, a soldier in the British includes handwritten poems; diaries; a newspaper she edited Army’s Jewish Brigade named Moshe Braslavski re- when she was just 6 years old; extensive correspondence; turned to Kibbutz Sdot Yam in Mandatory Palestine, photos and personal documents from throughout her life; where he found a suitcase full of previously unknown Hannah and Giora Senesh (Szenes), 1924. (Photo study materials; the minutes of her trial; letters and docu- letters, diaries, songs and poems under Senesh’s bed. from the National Library of Israel’s Hannah Senesh ments related to the Kasztner affair; family documents going This discovery and the subsequent publication of some Archival Collection) back to the 19th century, including materials from her father, of her work is what made Senesh’s literary contributions the writer Bela Szenes; as well as personal items such as known to the world. Over the past year, Ori and Mirit Eisen from Arizona the suitcase she took when she moved to the land of Israel, After the war, her mother, Katherine, came to Man- her personal typewriter, camera and more. datory Palestine, bringing more of Senesh’s writings and have enabled the transfer of the complete Hannah Senesh Archival Collection to the National Library of Israel in Perhaps the two most moving items in the collection personal items that had been kept at home in Budapest. are a pair of notes found in her dress following her Katherine received the materials from the kibbutz and she execution: the last poem she ever wrote and a personal kept the complete archival collection in her apartment letter to her mother. in Haifa. Following Katherine’s death in 1992 and the death of Senesh’s brother, Giora, in 1995, the materials were passed down to Giora’s sons, Eitan and David, who used them to promote their aunt’s memory and legacy. Eitan also worked to manage, catalogue, translate and preserve the literary estate.

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Pledge or Donate online at A childhood drawing for Hannah Senesh’s grandmother Hannah Senesh's immigrant certificate, 1939. (Photo www.jewishnepa.org/donate with a Hungarian flag, 1930. (Photo from the National from the National Library of Israel’s Hannah Senesh Library of Israel’s Hannah Senesh Archival Collection) Archival Collection)

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With best wishes, Mark Silverberg, Executive Director Jewish Federation of NE Pennsylvania 601 Jefferson Avenue Scranton, PA 18510 DECEMBER 10, 2020 ■ THE REPORTER 7 8 THE REPORTER I DECEMBER 10, 2020 D’VAR TORAH ABINGTON TORAH CENTER Rabbi Dovid Saks President: Richard Rutta Dialing Hanukkah back — and forward Jewish Heritage Connection BY RABBI DANIEL SWARTZ “Simply the Holidays” (https://simplifytheholidays.org) 601 Je erson Ave., Scranton, PA 18510 Hanukkah, Genesis 37:1-40:23 is fi lled with ideas about how we can transform the idea 570-346-1321 • website: www.jewishheritageconnection.org As with everything else in these pandemic times, of gifts from something fl eeting, material and harmful Sunday morning minyan 8:15 am at Elan Gardens, Hanukkah will look very diff erent this year. In-person to our planet’s future into lasting memories created by 465 Vernard Rd., Clarks Summit, PA community galas, synagogue parties, even large family helping to build a better future. At a time when so many BETH SHALOM CONGREGATION gatherings will be (or, at least, should be for health are facing fi nancial crunches, such experiences have the Rabbi Yisroel Brotsky reasons!) off the table. But just because we have to cut additional benefi t of making Hanukkah more aff ordable. 1025 Vine St., Scranton, PA 18510 (corner of Vine & Clay Ave.) back on some of the celebratory aspects of Hanukkah Choosing such gifts would align their giving much 570-346-0502 • fax: 570-346-8800 doesn’t mean that it won’t be special. Indeed, dialing more closely with the central values of Hanukkah. At its Weekday - Shacharit: Sun. 8am; Mon.,  urs. & Rosh Chodesh the public pomp back creates a wonderful opportunity core, Hanukkah is a holiday that celebrates resistance 6:30 am; Tue., Wed. & Fri. 6:45 am; Sat. & holidays 8:45 am. to “dial forward” some of the other, potentially more to a culture that focuses on superfi cial beauty and the Mincha during the week is approx. 10 minutes before sunset, meaningful, aspects of the holiday. idolatry of wealth. The haftarah for Hanukkah (Zechariah following by Maariv. For example, did you know that American households 2:14-4:7) points to another aspect of Hanukkah that is CHABAD OF THE ABINGTONS/ produce an average of 25 percent more waste between especially pertinent in our age of climate disasters. It JEWISH DISCOVERY CENTER Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day? The U.S. Environ- concludes with a vision of the seven-branched meno- Rabbi Benny Rapoport mental Protection Agency estimates that we produce an rah in the Temple being surrounded by two olive trees. President: Richard I. Schwartz additional one million pounds of trash each week during Golden olive oil fl ows directly from the olive trees to 216 Miller, Rd., Clarks Summit, PA 18411 this time! Holiday food waste, wrapping and packaging, the menorah, yielding an eternal light. A seven-word 570-587-3300 • JewishNEPA.com/minyan and extravagant shopping all contribute to this waste. Hebrew phrase is proclaimed, one word for each light Weekly service for Shabbat and all Jewish holidays But what if, instead of focusing on Hanukkah’s glitz, we of the menorah: “Not by might, not by power, but by Kabbalat Shabbat at sundown (summer at 7 pm) saw it as a time for mitzvot? My (God’s) spirit.” (Zechariah 4:6) Saturday mornings: 9:30 am, Kiddush 11:30 am For example, look at the current “tradition” of Ha- What does this mean and what light does it shed upon Call for more information. nukkah gift giving – “tradition” because it is a modern our present situation? The integration of the olive trees CHABAD LUBAVITCH OF THE POCONOS American invention, an adjunct to the mass commercial- and the menorah is one of the most ancient metaphors Rabbi Mendel Bendet ization of Christmas. I’m not naive enough to believe that we have for the modern concept of sustainability. Use 570-420-8655 • website: www.chabadpoconos.com people will suddenly stop giving gifts on Hanukkah. But is balanced by growth, left and right are symmetrically Please contact us for schedules and locations. we can shift at least some of our gifts into occasions for balanced, and the whole image is meant to remind us doing a mitzvah or two. Fortunately, the same Internet not to focus on our own political might or technological CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL that provides round-the-clock shopping binges also makes power, but on the Divine spirit, who values the good- A liation: Union for Reform Judaism it easier to fi nd non-material gift choices. For example, ness of Creation far above the creation of wealth. The Rabbi Elliott Kleinman evergreen olive trees – despite nowadays being seen as President: Liza Roos Lucy the Union for Reform Judaism has developed a “social a symbol of peace – would in ancient times have been Contact person: Cheryl Badner, Congregation Administrator justice gift guide” specifi cally for the eight nights of 615 Court St., Honesdale, PA 18431 Hanukkah: https://reformjudaism.org/jewish-holidays/ seen as an additional sign of eternality. This passage also 570-253-2222 • fax: 570-226-1105 hanukkah/social-justice-gift-guide-hanukkah. raises echoes in our mind of the story from the Talmud Though not specifi cally Jewish – indeed, despite the (Shabbat 21b) about the Maccabees fi nding a single CONGREGATION B’NAI HARIM name, it goes well beyond holidays altogether – the site See “Forward” on page 10 A liation: Union for Reform Judaism Rabbi Peg Kershenbaum President: Stacy Mitgang P.O. Box 757, Sullivan Rd., Pocono Pines, PA 18350 (located at Rt. 940 and Pocono Crest Road at Sullivan Trail) 570-646-0100 • website: www.bnaiharimpoconos.org Shabbat morning services 10 am-noon; every other Saturday, P A C E Potluck Shabbat Dinner with blessings and program of varying Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment topics, one Friday every month - call for schedule. JEWISH FELLOWSHIP OF HEMLOCK FARMS Rabbi: Johanan Bickhardt Your gift to the Annual Campaign President: Dan Marcus 540 Forest Dr., 1516 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428 570-775-7497 • e-mail: j [email protected] DOES A WORLD OF GOOD. Friday evening Shabbat service 8 pm Endowing your gift allows you to be there for the Saturday morning Shabbat service 9:30 am Jewish community of NEPA forever. MACHZIKEH HADAS SYNAGOGUE Rabbi Mordechai Fine President: Moshe Fink A Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment (PACE) is a permanent fund that endows 600 Monroe Ave., Scranton, PA 18510 your Jewish community Annual Campaign gift as a lasting legacy. A PACE fund will 570-342-6271 continue to make an annual gift in perpetuity on your behalf. OHEV ZEDEK CONGREGATION To determine the amount you need to endow your entire campaign gift, multiply your current Rabbi Mordechai Fine 1432 Mulberry St., Scranton, PA 18510 annual gift by 20. Contact person: Michael Mellner, 570-343-3183 You can fund your PACE by adding the JEWISH FEDERATION OF NORTHEASTERN TEMPLE HESED PENNSYLVANIA to your will, or by making the Federation a benefi ciary of your IRA. All A liation: Union for Reform Judaism contributions to establish a PACE are tax deductible. Rabbi Daniel J. Swartz Co-Presidents: Esther Adelman, Cheryl Friedman & Steve Seitchik Let your name be remembered as a blessing. 1 Knox St., Scranton, PA 18505 (O Lake Scranton Rd.) 570-344-7201 • website: www.TempleHesed.org Endowments can be created through a variety of vehicles, some of which do not necessitate E-mail: [email protected] funding during your lifetime yet still provide your estate with considerable tax benefi ts. First Friday Shabbat 6pm, other Fridays 8 pm; Chanting They also enable you to perpetuate your commitment to the Annual Campaign in a way that Circle Saturdays at 11:30 am best achieves your own personal fi nancial and estate planning goals. TEMPLE ISRAEL OF DUNMORE Contact person: Jay Schectman, 570-954-9354 515 East Drinker St., Dunmore, PA 18512 Examples Of Ways To Fund Your Pace Gift Are: Saturday morning Shabbat 7:30 am, also services for Yizkor * outright contribution of cash, appreciated securities or other long-term TEMPLE ISRAEL OF THE POCONOS * capital gain property such as real estate A liation: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism * charitable remainder trust Rabbi Baruch Melman • President: Shell Farber * gift of life insurance 711 Wallace St., Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (one block o Rt. 191 (5th Street) at Avenue A) * charitable lead trust 570-421-8781 • website: www.templepoconos.org * gift of IRA or pension plan assets E-mail: [email protected] * grant from your foundation Friday evening Shabbat 6 pm; Saturday morning Shabbat 10:30 am * reserved life estate in your residence TEMPLE ISRAEL OF SCRANTON * bequest A liation: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism Rabbi: Rabbi Miriam Spitzer Using appreciated property, such as securities or real estate, a ords you the opportunity to Cantor: Vladimir Aronzon • President: Howard Spizer eliminate the income tax on the long-term capital gain, will in some instances generate a full income 918 East Gibson St., Scranton, PA 18510 (located at the tax charitable deduction and will remove those assets from your estate for estate tax purposes. corner of Gibson & Monroe Sts.) 570-342-0350 • e-mail: o [email protected] Mon. &  urs. 7:15 am; Tues., Wed. & Fri. 7:25 am; Rosh For more information contact Mark Silverberg at Chodesh & Chagim weekdays, 7 am; Shabbat morning [email protected] or call 570-961-2300, ext. 1. service 9:30 am DECEMBER 10, 2020 ■ THE REPORTER 9

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MARK SILVERBERG AND DASSY GANZ, CO-CHAIRS OF THE 2021 UJA CAMPAIGN, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! 10 THE REPORTER ■ DECEMBER 10, 2020 Israel’s Deni Avdija picked to shoot for Washington Wizards BY HOWARD BLAS English by “watching Avdija doesn’t expect Sacramento Kings in the 2009 draft. He (JNS) – Israeli basketball fans had TV and playing ‘Call of to have a difficult time played for several teams during his 10- to stay up very late or rise very early to Duty,’” the video game. making the transition year NBA career. witness the Washington Wizards taking “He is quite fluent in from playing in Israel to Aliza Haas, who lives in Jerusalem, 19-year-old Deni Avdija No. 9 overall in basketball, thanks to his playing in the NBA. “I is the mother of two boys who grew up the NBA Draft 2020. Dad.” am easy to adjust. I think playing in the Hapoel Youth League. Just after NBA Commissioner Adam His Muslim father, it won’t be hard to adjust “People here are so excited and proud that Silver called his name at 9:02 pm Eastern Zufer Avdija, was born to the NBA style. I will there are two outstanding Israeli players Time from ESPN’s studios in Bristol, in Yugoslavia and played be asking questions to in the 2020 NBA draft. Sports has always CT, ESPN commentators highlighted the for Yugoslavia’s national get better every day and been a place where people can bring hope Maccabi Tel Aviv standout’s basketball IQ basketball team. The dual Israel’s Deni Avdija spoke to the have the best environment and show that anything is possible if a and his versatility, calling him “the steal Serbian-Israeli citizen press shortly after being drafted around me to help me person works hard enough and believes of the draft.” and sports coach also by the Washington Wizards. make sure I fit in and get in themselves. I can’t wait to see Avdija They noted his “tremendous versatility played for several Israeli (Photo courtesy of JNS) better in the NBA.” or Madar wearing an NBA team jersey!” in the open court” and said he was “a fiery professional basketball He will likely play David Wiseman, originally from competitor.” teams. “He played a big part in my jour- small forward for the Wizards. Australia and who now lives in Israel, “It means a lot to me,” said Avdija when ney,” said his son. “It was great to have Avdija averaged 12.9 points per game, maintains the Facebook Group “Follow asked what it means to be the highest-draft- another competitive sportsperson in the 6.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists on 52.6 Team Israel.” While he didn’t stay up to ed Israeli in history. “Israel is a small coun- house. He taught me how to act on the percent shooting from the field and 35.3 watch the draft, he and his group have try and to represent Israel is amazing. I am court, small tricks, how to be a professional percent from 3-point range in the Israeli been following Avdija for a long time. super excited to get my game to the next and how to have a good work ethic.” league last season for Maccabi Tel Aviv. “‘Follow Team Israel’ has been sharing his level and to see what happens.” His Jewish mother, Sharon Artzi, was a His stats were slightly less impressive in exploits for a while and can’t wait for the The 6-foot-9, 220-pounder becomes competitive track-and-field athlete. Avdija the more competitive Euroleague. rest of the world to get to know him. As the third Israeli to play in the NBA after grew up in Beit Zera, a kibbutz in northern Yam Madar, a 6’3” point guard and much as a champion he is on the court, he Omri Casspi and Gal Mekel. “Omri has Israel, and currently lives in Herzliya. fellow Israeli, is likely to be taken later is off it as well. Given his obvious talent been in touch with me. We talked a lot Soon, he’ll move to Washington, DC. in the NBA draft. Madar, who played for from a very young age, people have been about his route here, what I can do as a “My American agent is from DC, Hapoel Tel Aviv, is a skilled playmaker waiting for this day for a long time. We rookie, travel and more.” and he has said great things!” reported and strong shooter. are excited to see Deni show his stuff on The emotional Avdija thanked his Avdija during the post-draft Zoom me- Israelis haven’t been this pumped about the highest stage and also to see where friends and family for their support. “I dia conference, attended by more than the NBA since fellow Maccabi Tel Aviv he will end up.” truly love them. I love the support and will 150 journalists from around the world. player Casspi was drafted No. 23 by the See “Avdija” on page 11 make you proud. I will work 100 percent!” “Washington, DC, is the capital – I heard ESPN commentators playfully noted it is a great place.” that Avdija, who addressed the media in Not only are the Wizards “a great or- Miracle Continued from page 5 fluent English, “gets by in two-and-a-half ganization,” he will play with such famed Raise heat to high and cook for 1 min- ‹ Pudding may be made ahead. Wrap in languages.” They noted that he learned players as point guard John Wall. ute. Reduce heat to medium and cook until foil and warm in preheated 350°F oven crisp on the bottom, 2-3 minutes longer. for 10 minutes. Flip over and cook until underside is ‹ Garnish with a dab of whipped cream. browned and crisp, about 2 minutes. 3 ounces pitted dates Forward Continued from page 8 Drain on paper towels and keep warm. ½ cup water cruse of oil, which miraculously lasted of small beginnings.” Olive trees grow Repeat with remaining ingredients. 2 Tbsp. butter, room temperature for eight days. How’s that for an example slowly and cultures often shift even more CREAMED MUSHROOMS ON 1/3 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed of energy conservation! slowly. But if we make this Hanukkah a TOAST (DAIRY) 1 tsp. orange extract (optional) A few lines further down in Zechariah, time of “small beginnings” in a journey to Serves 4. 1 Tbsp. molasses the prophet records another observation, a future that is more just and sustainable, Cook’s tips: 1 Tbsp. light or dark corn syrup seemingly an aside, which should bring we will make the holiday come alive in ‹ Use any preferred bread: Kaiser rolls, ½ cup plus 1 Tbsp. all-purpose flour us hope as we contemplate both the long ways that shopping never can. challah, hamburger buns. ½ tsp. baking powder road back from the pandemic and the Rabbi Daniel Swartz is the executive ‹ Sprinkle generously with chopped fresh ¼ tsp. baking soda overwhelming task of combating climate director of the Coalition on the Environment parsley before serving. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 6 muffin change. The word of God, the prophet and Jewish Life, and the spiritual leader 3 Tbsp. olive oil tins with nonstick baking spray. Set aside. recounts (4:10), is, “Do not scorn the day of Temple Hesed. 1 box (16 ounces) sliced white mush- Place the dates and water in a small rooms, rinsed and patted dry saucepan. Bring to boil over medium heat. 1 medium onion, chopped Reduce to low. Simmer for 3 minutes. 1½ cups sour cream Set aside. 4 small ciabatta rolls, split and toasted In a medium bowl, cream the butter, In a large, deep skillet, heat olive oil sugar, orange extract, molasses and over medium heat. corn syrup, whisking till smooth. Add Add the mushrooms and onion. the flour and baking powder, beating Raise heat to high, stirring until mush- well to combine. rooms are beginning to brown. Purée the date mixture in a blender or If mushrooms have released liquids, food processor. Add to the batter, along reduce to medium heat and cook for 5 with the baking soda. minutes, or until almost no liquids remain. Mix well. Pour into prepared muffin Remove from heat. Stir in sour cream. tins. Bake in a preheated oven for 18-20 Spoon over toasted rolls. minutes, or until the centers are firm. Serve hot. They are ready when you gently press “NO COOK” APPLE-RASPBERRY tops with your finger and it springs back SAUCE (PAREVE) or a toothpick inserted in the center comes Serves 4-6. A palate refresher. out clean. Cook’s tips: Place on serving dishes. Prick tops with ‹ Substitutions: 1 tablespoon grated a fork. Pour hot toffee sauce over. ginger root for cinnamon. Serve warm. ‹ Use blueberries for raspberries, if TOFFEE SAUCE (DAIRY) preferred. Makes about 1¼ cups ‹ Use 1 tablespoon of warm honey for Cook’s tip: You may want to double sugar, if preferred. this rich recipe. Any leftovers may be 2 lbs. McIntosh apples, cored, unpeeled refrigerated and warmed before drizzling 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice over top vanilla ice-cream or toasted 1-2 Tbsp. sugar or to taste pound cake. ½ tsp. cinnamon ¼ cup butter, softened 1 cup fresh raspberries, rinsed ½ cup whipping cream Cut apples into chunks. ¼ cup brown sugar, firmly packed Place in the food processor with lemon 1 Tbsp. molasses juice, 1 tablespoon sugar and cinnamon. 2 Tbsp. corn syrup Pulse until the mixture is reduced to small 1 tsp. orange extract (optional) chunks. Transfer to a bowl. Place all the ingredients in a small If needed, add sugar to taste. Stir in saucepan. Stir to mix. the raspberries. Bring to boil over medium heat. Reduce Serve chilled. heat to simmer. STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING Cook for 3 minutes to thicken slightly. (DAIRY) Pour over hot muffin puddings. Serves 6. A British classic and allegedly Serve as above. the favorite dessert of Kate Middleton, the Ethel G. Hofman is a widely syndicated duchess of Cambridge. American Jewish food and travel Cook’s tips: columnist, author and culinary consultant. DECEMBER 10, 2020 ■ THE REPORTER 11 NEWS IN BRIEF From JNS.org May collected on its behalf by Israel, as part of the leadership in Ramallah’s threats to Women diplomats from Israel, UAE, Bahrain stress need for peace halt all cooperation with the Jewish state over Jerusalem’s plan at the time to extend Israeli law to parts of Judea and Samaria. In May, the Jerusalem District Court placed Top women diplomats from Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain joined a lien on NIS 450 million ($138 million) in the revenues, after ruling against the P.A. together on Dec. 3 in a first-of-a-kind session to discuss the role of women in diplo- in several lawsuits, charging it with responsibility for numerous terror attacks. Israel macy, as well as the need for the active involvement of women in promoting peace collects these funds on behalf of the P.A. under the terms of the Oslo Accords. and security in the Middle East and beyond. Hosted by the “Women in Diplomacy Network,” the online event was moderated by Network founder and board member Czech Republic plans to open diplomatic office in Jerusalem Sarah Weiss Ma’udi, the legal adviser of Israel’s U.N. Mission in New York. It featured The Czech Republic plans to open a diplomatic office in Jerusalem, announced Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva Meirav Eilon Shahar; Ambassador Israel’s Foreign Affairs Minister Gabi Ashkenazi on Dec. 2 after speaking with his Houda Nonoo, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain and former counterpart, Tomas Petricek. Ashkenazi tweeted: “I just spoke with my colleague, ambassador to the United States; and United Arab Emirates Ambassador to the United the Czech FM @TPetricek, and congratulated him on the decision to open an official Nations Lana Nusseibeh. The virtual event was attended by diplomats from around diplomatic office in Jerusalem. This decision as well as recognizing Jerusalem as the globe – spanning from Abu Dhabi to Bahrain to Israel to Geneva and New York. Israel’s capital emphasizes our strong friendship and strategic partnership.” Petricek Eilon Shahar, Nonoo and Nusseibeh highlighted a number of challenging issues facing confirmed the news in a similar tweet. Neither Ashkenazi nor Petricek provided a women diplomats in the Mideast. The panelists emphasized the importance of women time frame as to when the diplomatic office would actually open. at the highest levels of decision-making in their respective countries and discussed Report: Sudan-Israel deal could cave unless Congress passes their visions for how gender must play a role in the newfound ties between them. “The UAE and Israel are champions of gender equality in our region, and we believe that immunity bill the agreement between our two countries is already beginning to foster partnerships (Israel Hayom via JNS) – The U.S.-brokered normalization agreement between that will unlock enormous opportunities for women in the region,” said Nusseibeh. Israel and Sudan from October may not be implemented unless Sudan is granted legal immunity over its terrorist past, The New York Times reported on Dec. 1. According English Premier League, clubs adopt definition of antisemitism to the report, which cites several officials involved in talks between Washington and The English Premier League and its clubs adopted on Dec. 3 the widely accepted Inter- Khartoum, Sudan has made it clear that unless the U.S. Congress passes legislation national Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism. The announcement that would grant it immunity from legal action over the years in which it sponsored follows efforts spearheaded by the U.K. Government’s Independent Adviser on Antisemi- Al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups, it would not proceed toward full normalization tism Lord John Mann, who recently signed a letter alongside international counterparts to with Israel as it had agreed under the Abraham Accords. Those accords have been hailed leading British and European football clubs, urging them to adopt the IHRA definition of as a landmark achievement in cementing the de facto alliance between Israel and the antisemitism. The league’s executive director, Bill Bush, stated: “The Premier League is Sunni moderate Arab states in recent months. The agreements have already led to almost committed to tackling any form of discrimination in football. Our adoption of the IHRA’s full normalization between Israel and two Arab states – the United Arab Emirates and working definition will enable us to be more effective in dealing with any antisemitic Bahrain – and to the warming of relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. behavior targeting our clubs or personnel.” He went on to say that “the adoption of the IHRA’s working definition of antisemitism is the latest step in the Premier League’s con- tinued work to ensure that football is a welcoming environment for all.” Avdija Continued from page 10 Israel transfers P.A. $1.14 billion in tax revenues Yariv Amiram, 26, grew up playing will help “make kids believe more that Israel transferred $1.14 billion in tax revenues to the Palestinian Authority, the at Maccabi Tel Aviv youth club and has they can make it so high and go far. And head of the P.A. General Authority of Civil Affairs, Hussein Al-Sheikh, announced been playing basketball professionally for in the future, it will open more doors for on Dec. 2. “The #Israeli government transfers all financial dues of the clearance to the past nine years. He currently plays for everyone.” the account of the #Palestinian Authority, amounting to three billion and 768 million Hapoel Hevel Modi’in. Amiram feels that The sports news brought a dose of shekels,” tweeted Al-Sheikh. According to Israeli media reports, the Israeli Cabinet Avdija’s basketball IQ is high and thinks optimism to the two countries amid the decided on Sunday to deduct 600 million shekels ($180 million) from the amount he will “automatically become someone ongoing coronavirus pandemic. And when that the P.A. pays in monthly stipends to Palestinian terrorists and their families. The who will represent Israel.” travel finally resumes, Israelis will no deduction of the “pay for slay” money is in accordance with a 2018 law passed by He adds, “I’m sure he will do it great!” doubt be off to Washington, DC, to see their the Knesset. The P.A. in June had refused to accept the revenues for the month of Amiram said he is delighted that Avdija young up-and-coming superstar in action.

ÊCheck out the Federation’s new, updated website at www.jewishnepa.org or find it on Facebook 12 THE REPORTER ■ DECEMBER 10, 2020

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