Washtenaw Jewish News Presort Standard In this issue… c/o Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor U.S. Postage PAID 2939 Birch Hollow Drive Ann Arbor, MI Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Permit No. 85 Jewish Noreen Women Family DeYoung Nurturing Services’ JCC thru Food 20th Celebration Anniversary Page 4 Page 15 Page 19

February 2013 Shevat/Adar 5773 Volume XXXVII: Number 5 FREE

Michigan Business Federation Impact Fund addresses isolation, Bridge joins BuyIsrael- homelessness, bereavement and culture Goods campaign David Shtulman, special to the WJN Pamela B. Lippitt, special to the WJN he Federation’s Jewish Community members for The Michigan Israel Business Bridge Impact Fund has approved five proj- the oral history. (MIBB) has announced a partnership T ects totaling $40,000 for 2013. Win- Phase Two will with the BuyIsraelGoods (BIG) campaign. ners were selected through a combination of fund the creation The link to the BIG site can now be found community voting and approval by the Im- of an interactive on the homepage of their website, www. pact Fund Selection Committee. website to michiganisrael.com. The BIG campaign “Celebrating History with Our Stories” include the highlights vendors who carry Israeli products is a project of Beth Israel Congregation to oral histories create an audio, visual and digital record of recorded by Ann Arbor Jewish history. “The project will StoryCorps, a look back in time to see where we have come written history of from, but will also engage us in a discussion the community of where we are now, and where on their store shelves. The Michigan Israel we can hope to be in the future. Business Bridge can now help you identify The website in which everything Israeli products available in local retail stores will be captured will engage as well as from online retailers. individuals to contribute current as well as opportunities for community BIG products can easily be incorporated thoughts about life in Jewish Ann members to add their own narratives and into one’s regular shopping needs, and make Arbor creating a living forum,” videos of documenting Jewish life. great gifts. Collectively, the frequent purchase organizers stated. The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist of Israeli products has a broad and significant Phase One was funded last Congregation, Hillel at Eastern Michigan impact on the Israeli economy and its citizens. year and covered the planning University and the EMU Jewish Studies The Michigan Israel Business Bridge is process and the engagement Program collaborated to propose “A Journey partnering with the Michigan Chapter of of StoryCorps to spend three Through Modern Jewish Music.” The project StandWithUs in this effort to bring awareness days in Ann Arbor in April consists of a series of musical events over of merchants carrying Israeli products. 2013 interviewing community continued on page 7 continued on page 2 German scholar to speak at EMU and Holocaust Memorial Center Martin B. Shichtman, special to the WJN astern Michigan University Jew- German audience. more brutal in their horrible details and in society” (Mordechai Chaim Rumkowski) by ish Studies will present Dr. Sascha That seemed all design. But even then they were not read by people who suffered themselves. Nevertheless E Feuchert, founder and director of too convincing: the traumatized German public—but rather this “newspaper without readers,” that was the Center for Holocaust Literature at Justus- who would have completely forgotten. Dr. Feuchert will talk clearly designed for people reading it after Liebig University, Giessen (Germany’s only been the readers? about how these texts give a double evidence: the horror would be over, was also censored Center for Holocaust Literary Studies). Dr. But the fact is that about the horrors of the camps but also of the by Rumkowski, Elder of the Jews of the Lodz Feuchert is also an honorary professor of hundreds of texts time when they were published and tried to Ghetto, who wanted to have an influence on German, in the department of World Lan- were published gain an audience. his own representation in history (but the guages, at EMU. The title of Dr. Feuchert’s between 1945 and On Wednesday, February 13, at 7 p.m., Dr. chroniclers were able to deceive him) and by talk will be “When the Holocaust Did Not 1949 by victims, Feuchert will give a free talk at the Holocaust the chroniclers themselves, who feared that Have a Name: Early German Texts on the although there Memoral Center in Farmington Hills. The the Germans would find their work. It is a Camps 1945–1949.” The talk will take place was a decline evening’s top will be “The Ghetto Chronicle remarkable and unique source. on Sunday, February 10, at 7 p.m. in the EMU after the Federal Dr. Sascha Feuchert of Lodz/Litzmannstadt: News Bulletins from The Holocaust Memorial Center Student Center Auditorium, 900 Oakwood Republic and the a Horrible Life.” Zekelman Family Campus is located at 28123 Street, Ypsilanti, Michigan. Admission is free. GDR were founded. These texts, however, The Ghetto Chronicle of Lodz/ Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills. n According to Dr. Feuchert, until recently were rejected by the German audience (even Litzmannstadt was written on a daily basis For more information on both talks, contact most scholars have claimed that there were by leftist intellectuals like Wolfgang Borchert) between 1941 and 1944 by approximately [email protected]. not many texts in the early years after the and denounced as “kitsch” or even worse. fifteen people (journalists, historians etc.). Holocaust that described the horrors for a As a consequence these texts became even It gives the world a view of this “horrible I Community

2935 Birch Hollow Drive JCC’s and Film Night returns Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 voice: 734/971-1800 Karen Freedland, special to WJN fax: 734/971-1801 The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor will host a falafel dinner and Israeli e-mail: [email protected] cinema night, Saturday, February 2, at 7 p.m. The featured film will be Jellyfish, by Shira Geffen, www.washtenawjewishnews.org and directed by her husband Etgar Keret, a popular figure in today’s Israeli arts community. This film Happy Valentines Day tells the story of three women in Tel Aviv whose Special Dinner 2 for $69 Editor and Publisher intersecting lives paint a complicated portrait of Susan Kravitz Ayer Israeli secular life. Batya, a waitress at weddings, comes across a mute child who seemingly emerges Calendar Editor out of the sea. Keren, a bride whose wedding Claire Sandler Batya worked at, breaks her leg climbing out of bathroom stall and ruins her dream honeymoon in Advertising Manager Gordon White the process. And Joy, a Filipina domestic, attends Scene from Jellyfish to her employer with whom she struggles to Design and Layout communicate. Poetic imagery draws connections Dennis Platte between the lives of these women, all of whom find solace in the sea. Jellyfish was the winner of the 2007 Camera d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, the Official Staff Writers Selection at the 2008 Toronto Film Festival, and the Official Selection at the 2008 Telluride Mary Bilyeu, Sandor Slomovits, Rochel Urist Film Festival. Contributing Writers The cost is $10 for JCC members and $15 for non-members. There will be dessert and Aura Ahuvia, Halye Aisner, Rabbi Lisa Delson, discussion after the film. Reservations are required. For more information or to RSVP, Rabbi Robert Dobrusin, Hadar Dohn, Emily contact Karen Freedland at 971-0990 or [email protected]. Eisbruch, Diane Fenske, Karen Freedland, Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, Peretz Hirshbein, Cindy Klein, Chavie Lieber, Pamela Lippitt, Robert Nicholson, Meny Rimler, Jennifer Rosenberg, Ben Sales, Martin Shichtman, Health and fitness at the JCC David Shtulman, Mendel Sirota, Elliot Halye Aisner, special to the WJN Sorkin, Joanne Steuer, Chaim White The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor holds a variety of fitness classes for all activity levels. Healthy bodies and lifestyles promote healthy minds and spirits. The JCC serves everyone—people of all The Washtenaw Jewish News is a free and inde- ages and physical abilities—in a friendly and approachable environment. JCC health professionals are pendent newspaper. It is published monthly, highly trained and motivated to assist and encourage in meeting fitness goals. Classes include callanetics, with the exception of January and July. It is reg- Zumba, Energy Exercise, drop-in volleyball and basketball, and Israeli dancing. For more information, istered as a Non-profit Michigan Corporation. visit www.jccannarbor.org or call 971-0990. Opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of its editors or staff

Member of Not Just A Women’s Self-Defense Workshop set for February 3 American Jewish Press Association Photobooth! Halye Aisner, special to the WJN The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor will be hosting a Women’s Self-Defense WEDDINGS Workshop on Sunday, February 3, from noon–2 p.m. “Shalom Gever,” Peaceful Warrior Martial Arts for Health, Fitness and Self-defense, is an BAR/BAT approach to martial arts that combines the best of internal and external energy and strength MITZVAHS conditioning. This class will help students who want to learn how to be fit for everyday life, while learning to deal with difficult circumstances that may appear. These workshops will empower SCHOOLS participants with exercises and scenarios of “what to do when” practical applications. BIRTHDAYS Classes are led by Mark Marshall, who holds black belt rank in Tae Kwon Do and Grand Master rank in Kyusho Jitsu, and, Peter K. Gluck, PhD, who holds black belt rank in Chung Do Kwan Tae CORPORATE Kwon Do, Kyusho Jujitsu, and Kiai Jitsu. ©2013 by the Washtenaw Jewish News. All rights reserved. No portion of the Washtenaw EVENTS Cost for the class is $20 for JCC Members and $30 for non-members. Participants should dress Jewish News may be ­reproduced without 248.545.6460 in comfortable, athletic clothes. For more information or to register, contact Karen Freedland at permission of the publisher. 971-0990 or [email protected]. Signed letters to the editor are welcome; they should not exceed 400 words. Letters can be emailed to the editor at [email protected]. Name will be withheld at the discretion of the editor. Code: Michigan Israel Bridge, continued from page 1 WJN Circulation: 5,000 Subscriptions: About Michigan Israel Business Bridge $12 bulk rate inside Washtenaw County The Michigan Israel Business Bridge is a non-profit, membership-based, 501(c)(6) $18 first-class su­bscription “connector” organization dedicated to promoting business partnerships between Michigan and Israel. The organization facilitates business and investment opportunities between The deadline for the March 2013 issue of the Michigan and Israel for their mutual economic benefit. Israel has over 3,000 companies Washtenaw Jewish News is Friday, February 8. centered on life sciences, homeland security, alternative energy, water technology and agro- Publication date: Wednesday, February 27 technology, with more engineers and scientists per capita than any other country. MIBB was Extra copies of the Washtenaw Jewish News co-founded in 2007 by Chuck Newman and Susan Herman, with the support of business are available at locations throughout people of Michigan. For more information, visit www.michiganisrael.com. Washtenaw County.

IIn this issue… Advertisers...... 23 Film...... 14 Seniors...... 5 Best Reads...... 16 Israel...... 11 Travel...... 18 Calendar...... 20 Kosher Cuisine...... 19 Youth...... 12 Congregations...... 7 On Another Note...... 17 Vitals...... 23

2 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 ICommunity

Course asks, “Are you an ethical person?” Mendel Sirota, special to the WJN he Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) Talmudic wisdom to help them navigate will present “Living with Integrity: through life’s inevitable ethical challenges. This T Navigating Everyday Ethical Dilem- course will not only provide the tools to make Meet Your Personal Mortgage Professionals mas,” the institute’s new six-session winter 2013 appropriate decisions, it will also enhance course that will begin on February 5. participants’ interaction with family and friends. Jeremy Rabbi Aharon Goldstein of Ann Arbor Like all previous JLI programs, “Living with Kimberly Chabad House will conduct the six sessions on Integrity” is designed to appeal to people at all Shaffer Pearsall Tuesday mornings at 9 a.m. at the Chabad House, levels of Jewish knowledge, including those 734.418.0583 734.418.0582 and Tuesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at the Jewish without any prior experience or background in Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor. Jewish learning. All JLI courses are open to the “There’s a lot of talk about ethics for public, and attendees need not be affiliated with government and big corporations, but almost a particular congregation. Nicole Jason every day we confront complex ethical decisions Interested students may call 995-3276 or Mourning Robinson in our own relationships,” said Rabbi Zalman visit www.myJLI.com for registration and other 517.315.4670 Abraham of JLI’s headquarters in Brooklyn. course-related information. JLI courses are 734.274.5782 “From nanny cams to our responsibilities to presented in Ann Arbor in conjunction with our parents, “Living with Integrity” will provide the Chabad House. a framework for making balanced decisions for JLI, the adult education branch of Chabad Sean Dave ourselves and for the people we care about.” Lubavitch, offers programs in more than 350 Breeden Graff Looking at real-life scenarios, “Living with U.S. cities and in many foreign locations, More 734.418.0588 734.274.6346 Integrity” challenges students to articulate than 260,000 students have attended JLI classes their own opinions, while providing practical since the organization was founded in 1998. n

Craig Caring service, advice and Orndorf experience, here and now at Klezmer at The Ark on February 15 734.272.4087 WJN staff writer Ann Arbor State Bank. lezmer Guy is Arbor Blues & Jazz Festival, a neo-beatnik/ and Yiddishe Cup’s music was K nudnik mash- part of the Jewish Museum’s up of music, comedy, and exhibit “Chagall and the Artists a2sb.com | 122 South Main prose. “It’s as if Mickey of the Russian Jewish Theater, Katz hosted “This Ameri- 1919-1949” (, can Life!” says the listing 2008-09; Contemporary Jewish on The Ark website. Museum, San Francisco, 2009). Hop in the Ford Tsuris Yiddishe Cup has performed for a clutch-popping for many years at The The beauty of science comes to trip through the states of Ark, but this is a new klezmer, Yiddish swing, twist for Ann Arbor Ann Arbor at Ganger Dermatology! Tin Pan Alley and spoken Bert Stratton audiences. word. On Friday, February and Alan Douglas The Klezmer Laura Ganger M.D. and her 15, at 8 p.m., Bert Stratton, a.k.a. Klezmer Guy, Guy show (formerly staff combine cutting edge and the leader of Yiddishe Cup, will perform known as the “Driving comedic prose sketches and play clarinet, Mr. Klezmer” show), cosmetic procedures and accompanied by chauffeur Alan Douglas on Gerald Ross premiered at the Maltz skincare to enhance skin's vocals and fuel-injected, mood-enhancing Museum of Jewish Heritage, Cleveland, Ohio. overall health and beauty. piano; and special guest, Ann Arbor’s Gerald Tickets for the show are $20. To see a preview Ross, who will perform on ukulele and video of the show and for ticket information, GRAND OPENING OFFER!* go to http://theark.org/3389.html. The Ark is Hawaiian steel guitar. This offer will never be repeated! Stratton was one of the founders of the Ann located at 316 South Main Street. n Peel & Reveal Package • Photo-booth Complexion Analysis Ann Arbor Recons embrace new name and Consultation Emily Eisbruch, special to the WJN • NEO•PEEL • NEOCUTIS skincare regimen: he Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Ha- walks, art activities, yoga, fantastic food and NEO•CLEANSE, JOURNÉE, vurah has adopted a new name—the friendship, as well as worship services. Also HYALIS, BIO•CREAM T Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congre- highly noteworthy are the AARC’s ticketless • Dermaplane treatment gation (AARC). The decision to switch from high-holiday worship services that are open to 2 weeks after the peel “Havurah” to “Congregation” was finalized in the entire community. $149! the later half of 2012, as the group decided to According to Aura Ahuvia, rabbinic intern A $150 savings off the embrace a name that better describes the wide for the past four years and one of the group’s range of services and activities offered. founding members, “The new name, Ann regular price of $299! All appointments must be booked by Feb 28, 2013. While “We wanted a name that portrayed the Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation, defines supplies last. Not valid with any other offer. Limit one per person. strength and breadth of our growing community, us more accurately, and will help newcomers get which now includes over 65 households,” says a better sense of what we’re about.” Call today to schedule your appointment and meet the Debbie Zivan, president emeritus and board co- An upcoming date to remember is the fourth newest members of Ann Arborʼs medical community! chair of the AARC. The AARC’s religious school Friday Kabbalat Shabbat and potluck at the (734) 344-4567 is a place where children become familiar with Jewish Community Center, on Friday, February the Torah, learn Hebrew and are encouraged to 22, starting at 6:15 p.m. Kids’ pizza starts at 6 p.m. develop their own viewpoints about Judaism. RSVPs are greatly appreciated for kids’ pizza and/ Laura K Ganger MD FAAD In addition, the AARC sponsors a broad range or childcare. Newcomers are welcome. Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology of Jewish activities, including Shabbat services, Anyone interested in learning more about 2301 S. Huron Pkwy., Suite 1A life cycle events, holiday observances, and social the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 and educational programs. A favorite annual visit www.aarecon.org or email info@aarecon. www.gangerdermatology.com event is the Sukkot Retreat, featuring nature org or call 445-1910. n Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 3 I Jewish Family Services

Celebrating 20 years of Jewish Family Services:“Constellation JFS” Cindy Klein, special to the WJN ewish Family Services of Washtenaw and developed an organizational structure and JFS became a 501 (c) (3) non-profit be to create The Herb Amster Center at JFS; the County is marking 20 years of service a mission statement. With the recommendation organization in 2004. At this point, it received purpose of this special division is to identify J to the community on Sunday, April 21, of the planning committee at the annual meeting an allocation of funds from the Jewish mission-driven programs that will provide 2013, with its “Constellation JFS” 20th Anni- of the Jewish Federation in the spring of 1992, Federation, but it had its own president and additional funding thereby decreasing the versary Celebration, to be held at the Univer- the Federation board gave their approval to plan board of directors, and was able to seek grants agency’s reliance on grants and donations. The sity Of Michigan North Campus Research for the development of a Jewish Family Services and develop relationships with volunteers and Herb Amster Center will be officially launched Center from 4–6 pm. in Washtenaw County. Linda Shain was hired donors independently. Margie Checkoway at the “Constellation JFS” 20th Anniversary JFS, as we know it now, was formed by a as a consultant in the fall of 1992 to implement served as the first president, followed by Steve Celebration. “constellation” of partners from the community. operation of the planning efforts, with the Gerber, and currently, Phyllis Herzig. Bob Miller Over the years, JFS has been strongly In the late 1970s a local committee, the Soviet assistance of attorney, Ed Goldman. Charles will become president in September 2013. Since supported by the community. Hundreds of Jewry Absorption Committee (SJAC) of Garvin and Phyllis Herzig were involved in all of 2004, the agency has grown substantially. JFS volunteers, either individually or in conjunction Washtenaw County, was formed to help resettle these early efforts and have remained continuously has expanded from a single person agency with local organizations, have served as drivers, the large influx of Jews arriving in the area from involved with JFS to the present day. When Jewish with two programs to an organization with 20 friendly visitors or accompaniment to medical the former Soviet Union. Rabbi Allan D. Kensky, Family Services was officially founded in 1993, full-time equivalent staff working providing a appointments for older adults. Many others Helen Aminoff, Claire Bernstein, and the late the resettlement of new Americans became a wide variety of services. In 2012, JFS impacted helped immigrants and English as a Second Rae Lampe started the SJAC, and were joined major program of the agency. The first JFS office more than 3,000 clients, providing them with Language students master the language and later by Bassia Genkina, Irina Chernomordik, was housed in the Jewish Community Center of counseling, emergency assistance services, become acculturated to life in America; Angela Keselman, Myrna Miller and Rabbi Greater Ann Arbor. access to a food pantry and clothing closet, case delivered Meals on Wheels on Christmas; did Kensky’s successor, Rabbi Robert Dobrusin. Brian Ashin was the first chair of a JFS management, older adult services, employment mitzvah projects; collected food for the hungry; Helen Aminoff arranged for association with Advisory Council formed to create the agency and career services, resettlement services and and donated holiday gifts for the needy. In the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society so the and, under his leadership, the first director, transportation. addition, generous donors have provided immigrants would have access to financial Sue Sefansky, was hired in August 1993. In In 2011, Carol Amster decided that the needed operating funds that help sustain the support for their first 90 days in the United the following month, JFS began operations by legacy of her late husband, Herb Amster, would agency. n States. Additionally, Claire and Isadore Bernstein engaging in the process of serving individuals provided services and functions that are now who approached the agency with a broad variety part of the JFS offerings. They used their garage of needs. The JFS Advisory Council created “Star of the Month” Morgan Deleonard to repair and store donated furniture which several committees to help it carry out its work. Leading up to the anniversary celebration, JFS will introduce the community to was then distributed to the newcomers; they In those days, the staff was quite limited and a “Star of the Month.” The Star for February 2013 is JFS’s Resource Center specialist, organized dinners and holiday parties; and Claire included Sefansky and Temma Klibaner, who Morgan Deleonard. She is but one in the vast constellation of staff and community taught English as a Second Language classes. provided resettlement services. Because of these members who make JFS what it is today. In the late 1980s, the Jewish Federation staff limitations, the Advisory Council members Deleonard has also been named the 2012 Barrier Buster of the Year for her work matching of Washtenaw County (now the Jewish often aided in staff functions such as recruiting persons in need to resources. Deleonard does all initial intakes at JFS, runs the JFS Food Federation of Greater Ann Arbor), took over therapists willing to offer services and planning and Personal Items Pantry, and also serves as an intern in the the resettlement project because the wave of educational programs for these therapists. JFS Resettlement Program as she works on her master’s degree immigration in 1989–1990 was the largest Another Advisory Council committee helped in social work. since the turn of the century. Lora Shapiro to plan Family Life Education programs for Morgan’s efforts have benefited countless people. Her work and Temma Klibaner served as the first official the community. These included sessions on has helped prevent utility shutoff and evictions, kept low-income coordinators of the new resettlement program. intermarriage, substance abuse and caring persons from going hungry, helped elderly clients purchase needed The need for a social service agency for the for aging parents. Still other committees were prescriptions, and enabled Holocaust survivors to access medical Washtenaw County Jewish population was concerned with organizational development. care. She is “tikkun olam” (repairing the world) personified. identified in a “community needs assessment” The Advisory Council consisted of individuals Barrier Busters is a group of over 50 social service provider during the early 1990s. Acting on survey who were enthusiastic about the agency, eager agencies that are committed to increasing communication and results, the Jewish Federation board of directors to serve, and in their own right brought many coordination between its member agencies, and improving formed a planning committee chaired by relevant skills to the agency. Sue Sefansky served Morgan Deleonard services for Washtenaw County residents in need. Each member Phyllis Herzig. Meeting in 1991, the group as director of JFS from 1994–1995, followed by agency identifies at least one “Barrier Buster” who becomes the point of contact for their agency explored JFS models in other communities, Aliza Shevrin, from 1995–1996. In 1997 Anya and facilitates collaborative case management between member agencies. Barrier Busters is consulted with professionals in the local and Abramzon was hired as executive director and only one of more than 13 collaborating agencies that JFS holds membership in national Jewish communal service movement, the agency’s first full-time employee. Delivering Meals on Wheels – It’s an adventure! Diane Fenske, special to the WJN f a mitzvah can be defined as an act of hu- the Motor Meals office and seeing how it’s done and Tony Brakora, this was their first year, and man kindness, kindness was in abundance on a daily basis. It appeared to be organized they felt it was a great experience for both of I on December 25 at the Motor Meals office chaos at first, but is obviously an extremely well them and said they’ll be back. Joey and Cindy on Traverwood in Ann Arbor. Sixteen families organized and efficient program. Volunteers Lechtner and their children Jimmy, Ryan and from the community, along with two employees were recruited Steven have participated for five years. They feel and a volunteer from Jewish Family Services, all from lists of it’s a special way for their children to bring a little came together to deliver meals to homebound individuals joy into the lives of homebound older adults on adults in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. who had helped a holiday. Volunteers came back to report they JFS has facilitated the organizational in the past, as had “customers” who would not have had any details of this holiday project for many years— well as some other visitors on Christmas, and were grateful but community volunteers are the ones newcomers. The to see children and receive food and holiday who make it all happen. Hundreds of meals offers to volunteer cards. Students from Emerson School drew are distributed weekly from this University continued to The Lechtner family pictures and cards, and wrote messages that of Michigan-based program. Volunteers come in right up year had volunteered before. One were delivered along with the two meals—one typically deliver the meals six days per week; until December family has delivered meals for ten hot, and one sack lunch for later. but on Christmas Day it’s been a tradition for 24; this is an years, another for eight. Another Anyone interested in delivering meals to JFS to facilitate the deliveries. This allows the adventure family started doing it when their homebound adults during the year should staff of the Motor Meals Program and their families truly son was in grade school—he’s contact the Motor Meals office at 998-6686. volunteers to celebrate the holiday with their enjoy taking part in college now and still enjoys Those who would like to participate on families, or simply have a day of rest. in. the experience. Everyone had December 25, 2013, should contact Diane Planning for this event began in early Some of the wonderful reasons to share about Fenske at JFS ([email protected]) to have November, with JFS staff member Diane Fenske 16 families who why this is an important event your name put on the list for notification. n and social work intern Chelsea Yarbor visiting participated this Judy Sharkey and Tony Brakora for their family. For Judy Sharkey 4 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 Community I Chelsea Flower Shop, LLC 203 E. Liberty St. Phone 662-5616 Ann Arbor, MI 48104 SPICE: Older adult programs at the JCC www.chelseaflowersllc.com Social, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural and Educational Programs for Older Adults Over 60 years of excellent services Halye Aisner, special to the WJN oin SPICE, a weekly program for older adults located at the Jewish Community Center. SPICE offers a warm environment where older adults in the community come to learn, J socialize, and have fun. Visit the JCC to see the latest newsletter, SPICE It Up! and for information about current programming. Members meet every Tuesday and Thursday for various activities. All events are free unless noted otherwise. Questions? Contact Jessica Webb at [email protected] or 971-0990. Tuesdays 11 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar – $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 Noon: Homemade Dairy Lunch Buffet – $3 per person 1 p.m.: Games and Activities – Join in for games and activities including mahjong, sewing, and quilting. Thursdays 10 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Farquhar – $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10 11 a.m.: Current events with Heather Dombey. Bring items of interest for group discussion. Noon: Homemade Dairy Lunch Buffet – $3 per person 1 p.m.: Presentations, performances, discussions, lectures, activities, and special events

February special events. and presentations Thursday, February 7 12:30 p.m.: Birthday celebration for all with February birthdays. Bring family and friends for lunch and birthday cake. 1 p.m.: Join SPICE in welcoming Ilan Ofir. Ilan is the Israel Fellow at Hallal through the University of Michigan. He will talk about the Israeli elections and experiences growing up in Israel.

Thursday, February 14 12:30 p.m.: A registered nurse from Care Response will provide free blood pressure checks. 1 p.m.: Come enjoy a magic performance and sing along with the new executive JCC Director Jeff Baden.

Thursday, February 21 1 p.m.: Senior staffer Jessica Webb’s husband, Timothy, will present on his archaeo- logical work in Pompeii, Italy, in his presentation “Pompeii through the Ages.”

Thursday, February 28 1 p.m.: SPICE member Sol Saginaw’s son, Paul Sagninaw, co-founder of Zinger- man’s, will present on Zingerman’s and the founding of the local landmark in his presen- tation “In the Beginning All We Wanted Was a Really Good Sandwich.”

OSHER class offered at the JCC Halye Aisner, special to the WJN The Jewish Community of Greater Ann Arbor will be holding an “Investing in Retirement” course on Tuesdays, February 5–April 23, from 3–4:30 p.m. at the JCC. Participants will learn about investing methods and how to minimize risks. The class will cover new asset allocation methods, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETF’s annuities, real estate, and other assets. Learn how to deal with today’s low interest rate and potential high inflation later. Retirement tax considerations will also be discussed. George Levy, Ph.D., invests as a hobby and studies investing strategies. He is not a registered investment advisor, nor will he try to sell any investments or services. The class will also include lectures from Bob Shaw. The fee is $40 and should be paid directly to OLLI. Visit www.olli-umich.org for more information, or contact Karen Freedland at [email protected] or 971-0990.

Kosher co-op now in Ann Arbor Chaim White, special to the WJN Ann Arbor is one of 18 cities across the country with its own Kosher food coop. Thousands of products are locally delivered that average 25 percent to 50 percent below retail cost. The upcoming Passover order deadline is Sunday February 3, with delivery on March 13. Co-op members can easily browse, order, and pay for products online. The Co-op carries hundreds of fresh meat/poultry (including Lubavitch), dairy (including chalav yisroel), dry goods, fish, candy, and more. The website will be converted over to Passover-only items in mid-January. To receive a reminder before the order deadline, join the co-op community at www.kckoshercoop.com. Membership is free. Contact [email protected] with any questions. Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 5 I Rabbi's Corner

Yitro: How darkness can bring light Remembering Newtown this Passover Rabbi Aharon Goldstein, special to the WJN Rabbi Robert Dobrusin, special to the WJN he first week of February we will which is the worship of idols and the denial lmost two months after it occurred, recognizing the pain the Egyptians suffered, be reading the Torah portion called of the existence of Hashem as the one God. most us still have not fully come to the tradition developed to engage in a T Yitro. In this reading we find the Here he becomes converted to believing that A grips with the tragedy that took symbolic gesture. We reduce the wine in our story of the great event of the giving of the Hashem is the only and true God. This was place at the Sandy Hook Elementary School cup of celebration at the seder, taking one Torah at Mt. Sinai—“Matan Torah.” This is something very special—both on this Earth in Newtown, Connecticut. May the memory drop out with a finger for each of the plagues. the main theme of the Torah portion. But we as well as in the spiritual realms. of these children and their brave teachers be This year, in light of Newtown and so see something mysterious. We see no men- That’s why it is regarded as the prelude to for a blessing and may those who mourn be many other experiences in so many places, tion of the event the giving of the Torah. comforted. we must do more. I would suggest taking an in the name of the Therefore we say that this act of Yitro, While all of us additional 10 drops of wine out in memory portion. We know coming out to the desert and coming closer were moved by this of the innocent children that have been killed that the name of to Judaism was preparation for the giving of particular tragedy, in small towns and big cities in this country a portion is pre- the Torah as well as being the inner essence it is important to and throughout the world. These drops cisely indicative of of the momentous event of the giving of the remember that of wine will remind us of a contemporary the theme of the Torah. innocent lives are plague we must address. reading. There ap- As we know, Torah was in the world even lost to violence in But, I believe as well that we must pears to be no ob- before it was formally given at Mt. Sinai. It big cities and small move beyond symbolic acts and look very vious connection is known that the patriarchs studied Torah. towns throughout carefully at how we teach the story of the 10 Rabbi Aharon Goldstein Rabbi Robert Dobrusin between the main The Jewish people studied Torah even when our nation each day, plagues. Even if I can’t understand them fully events of the parsha, the giving of the Torah, they went down to Egypt. Judah went ahead and each experience should cry out to us theologically, I believe that we absolutely and the person in its title. Because it isn’t to Goshen prior to the rest of the tribes to set urging us to confront this terrible plague of must teach them to our children as part of obviously apparent, doesn’t mean that our up schools of Torah study. Jacob studied at violence. There are issues that the tragedy in the story of Pesach and recite them at the sages dropped the ball. Rather, we need to the school of Shem and Eber. Newtown raises besides our nation’s policies seder. There is an important message in the If the Torah existed before the events at concerning guns, and the question of the Mt. Sinai, what was so special about it when availability of proper mental health care is The giving of the Torah it was given there? It was after this point that certainly one of them. However, as a nation, Pesach is a time to celebrate the Jewish people had the ability to sanctify we absolutely must find ways to insure that enables us to reveal God’s this physical world. This physical world, by weapons are not as easily available and easily our redemption and the its nature, wants to conceal the true nature used as they are today. true purpose for our existence. of Hashem from us. The giving of the Torah The Newtown tragedy took place on the destruction of the Egyptian enables us to reveal God’s true purpose for 6th day of Hanukkah and, for many of us, the take a harder look and call on guidance from our existence. That is to take the physical lighting of the lights that evening just before taskmasters is part of that our great scholars. One reference, The Zohar, world and, by following the path of mitzvahs Shabbat was a sad experience. As I wrote story. But this year, tells us that until Yitro came and demon- laid out in the Torah, elevate this mundane that afternoon, I always look forward to the strated his recognition of Hashem, the To- world and make it holy and fit as a dwelling Shabbat of Hanukkah when the Hanukkah especially, we must remember rah wasn’t given. The Torah was given only place for Hashem. To bring this revelation, lights and the Shabbat candles both shine after Yitro came to the desert and met with we needed Yitro to come over from “the dark in the home. That night, however, even that the children who are still his son-in-law Moses and made the follow- side” and accept Hashem as the One God. light was not strong enough to cut through ing declaration: “ Now I know that is greater As the highest ranked idolater of the time, the darkness. dying throughout our nation than all other Gods.” When Yitro made this renouncing all idolatry and then converting The tragedy cast darkness on other declaration it created a great tumult in the to Hashem made a great stir in the physical celebrations as well. I know that many of and throughout our world. upper, spiritual worlds. It was so highly re- and spiritual worlds. This paved the way for my Christian colleagues incorporated the garded in the upper worlds that it caused all the Torah to be given to the Jewish people Newtown tragedy and concern for the story of the plagues as we see that those who the worlds to be elevated such that Hashem due to this great merit that Yitro gave families of the victims into their Christmas act in violent, immoral ways often become agreed to give the Torah to this world. That through his conversion from dark to light. sermons. A friend of ours did the same at a victims of violence themselves. We can teach is the connection between Yitro and the giv- So this is the answer to the question Christmas dinner the next day, expressing that serious lesson but, at the same time, we ing of the Torah—when Yitro made his dec- of why the parshah is called Yitro. He a hope that we reach out in compassion to must be careful not to trivialize the chaos laration, Hashem decided we were ready to symbolizes the main point of the giving of those who have suffered. that the plagues represented to the children receive the Torah. the Torah. What lesson do we learn from all It was, it seems, so difficult for any of us in Egypt. And we must be very careful not to What was so special about Yitro that the this? In order to receive the light of the Torah, to fully celebrate a festival in light of this use the recitation of the plagues at the seder Heavens should move on his account? The one has to have the spirit of Yitro. Meaning, horrible event. as a time to rejoice. Torah describes him as Kohain Midyan—the one has to take the physical world with all I believe that, as Jews, we need to face I believe that it is essential that we limit priest of Midian. There are two interpretations its coarseness, debasement, darkness, etc., that same reality as we approach the holiday our efforts to play games with the 10 plagues. in the Midrash that help clarify the meaning and make it holy. When a person takes the of Pesach. While Pesach is still quite a few The tradition of using the plagues in this of “the priest of Midian”. One says that he gross, lower elements of this physical world weeks away, many of us begin to plan for the way developed as another way to keep kids was a highly respected leader in Midian and and makes them into vessels for Hashem’s Seder significantly before the holiday. And interested in the seder story, and that is had the highest honors in the world of that holiness to dwell, he opens his heart as as we do, I believe there is one aspect of the always important. But it has, I believe, gotten time. The other interpretation says that he well as his intellect to receive the Torah. telling of the Pesach story that we need to out of hand. literally was the high priest in the religion of Therefore, one needs to understand that rethink in light of the tragedies of innocent Here is how far it has gone. It is possible Midian. He mastered and worshiped every holiness doesn’t only occur when praying in lives lost to violence, especially when those to purchase chocolate pieces in the form of idolatry that was known to man kind at that a synagogue or studying in a house of study, innocent victims are children. That section plagues, which, of all things, include a baby time and place, Unfortunately, his religion or when performing Torah mitzvos. We have is the recitation of the 10 plagues. basket symbolizing the death of the first- was one of idolatry and he, being the high to see, as well, that when we are out in the So many people have asked difficult born. I would argue that, especially this year, priest, was the epitome of all the idolatry of world amongst the gross physicality of our questions over so many centuries: Why was such expressions of celebration are obscene the world of his time. Now we can begin to existence that, by following Hashem’s ways it necessary for God to inflict plagues upon and misguided. understand why Yitro’s praise to Hashem was through the blueprint for living that we call the Egyptians? Couldn’t God have brought Pesach is a time to celebrate our so momentous and caused such a stir in the the Torah, we have the ability to elevate to the Hebrews out of slavery without such redemption and yes, the destruction of the upper worlds. When a person of his stature holiness and bring spiritual light to even violence? And, especially, why did God kill Egyptian taskmasters is part of that story. travels all the way out to the desert and the mundane activities of eating, sleeping, the first born of the Egyptians, even the But this year, especially, we must remember publicly recognizes Hashem over idolatry it working, etc. Transforming them into holy, innocent children, for the Hebrews to be the children who are still dying throughout is a testament to the veracity and power of light- filled vessels fit for Hashem to dwell redeemed? our nation and throughout our world. Let us Hashem. When the premier representative here on Earth. When everyone will do his or Our rabbis struggled with those do that by finding places in the seder ritual of the forces of darkness recognizes the her part to make this world a dwelling place questions and most did not come up with other than the 10 plagues to be creative and forces of light – that yields the greatest for Hashem—that will prepare the world for a satisfactory answer. So, as a reflection of fun in order to keep our children interested. light. As King Solomon said, “one especially the coming of Moshiach. May it be speedily their ambivalence concerning the story Instead, let’s give our children an extra hug appreciates light coming from darkness. in our days. n of the plagues and in recognition that we and a promise that we will work to make “Yitro represented the epitome of darkness, must not celebrate our redemption without their world safer. n

6 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 ICongregations

This month at Temple Beth Emeth The history behind the siddur Rabbi Lisa Delson, special to the WJN Aura Ahuvia, special to the WJN Purim celebrations at TBE Underground Lounge (213 South Ashley he monthly learners service offered by issues were they Every year TBE celebrates Purim with a Street). For just $5 a person, there will be Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congre- addressing, when great deal of enthusiasm and excitement. snacks, costumes, and a private room to T gation encourages participants to ex- they composed their This year, toddlers, elementary school-age party. Singles and couples are welcome. plore the traditions, meaning and background of prayers? They, and children, high-schoolers and the whole family RSVP by February 20 to Rabbi Lisa Delson at the Shabbat morning service and find a personal present day Jews, are will gather together for TBE’s annual Purim ldelsonattemplebethemeth.org or 665-4744. path to greater meaning in Jewish prayer. The really not so different services are held monthly during the school year carnival and Megillah reading on February Food for Thought: Jewish Food Book from each other. 24 from 5–7:30 p.m. Pizza will be available from 10 a.m.–noon at the Jewish Community Wednesday, February 13, 6 p.m. for a quick dinner. The entire community is Center of Greater Ann Arbor. The sessions in March 9 February’s book: Kosher Nation, by Sue welcome to this celebration and are invited to February and March offer a double header that Putting it All Fishkoff. Rabbi Delson and Robin Little will Aura Ahuvia come in costume. explore who contributed the siddurim prayers, Together: Who, What host a book club all about food on the second when did they live, and what context shaped and When, Part II. In discovering that prayers Families with Young Children (FYC) Wednesday of every month. Each month the their offerings. are living tools which helped Jewish ancestors Shabbat Service times every Friday group will read a new book related to food confront, change, or survive their times, the Tot (0–5 year olds) Shabbat services led by Rabbi and Judaism from Jewish authors; to ideas February 22 class will begin to look anew at the prayers of Levy and Cantor Annie Rose, 5:30 p.m. of and Jewish family food traditions; Putting it All Together: The Who, What people’s hearts, those which might help people Dinner for Tot Shabbat 6 p.m. ethical eating; health and wellness; and holiday and When Behind our Prayers. Participans will to confront, change or survive their times. This is Sukkat Shalom with Rabbi Delson and Cantor celebrations. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. construct a gigantic timeline of Jewish history a quintessentially Reconstructionist thing to do. Rose, 6:30 p.m. but come at 5:30 p.m. and bring dinner for a together. Who were the individuals and groups This class provides a powerful way to understand Shira (Tot song session), 6:30 p.m. chance to schmooze. Contact Rabbi Delson that contributed to the contents of the siddur? the group’s own role within history, as well as Popsicle Oneg, 7 p.m. at [email protected] for more In what historical context did they live? What their obligation to future generations. n Family Shabbat Service, 7:30 p.m. information. Women’s Torah Study Men’s Torah Study “Under the Sea ” is theme for Chabad Purim celebration Monthly, 1st and 3rd Mondays, February 4 and Wednesday, February 13 and 27, 7:30–9 p.m. 18, 7–8:30 p.m. Temple Beth Emeth’s Men’s Torah study Mendy Rimler, special to the WJN For centuries, women were not encouraged meets twice a month for an evening of Sushi. Seaside Open Bar. Seafood. Ancient “The Bubble Man,” says Shternie Zwiebel, to study Torah. Times have changed and learning. Refreshments will be served. For Persian history? Well yes, if you’re spending coordinator of the event, has “bursting success women are encouraged and empowered to more information, contact Roger Stutesman at Purim with Chabad of Ann Arbor. with kids all over Michigan. We’re super excited study Torah with the same vigor as men. Join rgstutesmanatsbcglobal.net. On Sunday, February 24, Chabad of Ann to bring the Bubble Man to our Purim party in for a unique experience to study and discuss Spirituality Book Club Arbor will throw a Purim Under The Sea this year.” what the Torah has to say through the voices of party for the Jewish community, at the Jewish Hamantashen will complement the array of Tuesday, December 5, 7:30 p.m., Thursday, women. For questions, contact Cantor Annie Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor. The seafood, sushi and other sea-related delights to February 7 at noon, Rose at cantorannieatgmail.com. festivities will begin with a Megillah reading, be served at the event. In addition, there’ll be February’s book: Abraham Joshua Heschel: followed by dinner, dancing, and fun activities crafts and other entertaining activities. Basic Judaism with Rabbi Lisa Delson Essential Writings, by Susannah Heschel for all ages. For more information or to R.S.V.P call 995- Mondays, February 4, 11, and 25, 7–8:15 p.m. Join Cantor Annie Rose for the fourth Taking a dive into a Purim underwater is 3276 *5 or email director@mycampganisrael. Basic Judaism is a course for those hoping season of the spirituality book club. All are Ron Loyd the Bubble Man. Loyd will show off com. Admission is $25 per family before to learn more about Judaism. This class is for welcome to come to every meeting or on his renowned bubble skills and tricks at the February 20 and $30 at the door. Individuals are those born Jewish, studying toward conversion, occasion for specific books of interest. Choose n n party, which include cube bubbles, smoke filled $8 before February 20 and $10 at the door. or those who just want to learn more about either the daytime or evening session. bubbles and bubbles inside of bubbles. the Jewish tradition. Each class will focus on a different aspect of Jewish living and learning, Federation Impact Fund, continued from page 1 from holidays to Jewish texts, from celebrations to mourning. The course is free for TBE the course of a year in Ann Arbor and in Rabbi Sara Adler. Jewish Family Services IHN will reach out to Jewish students members and $30 for non-TBE members. For Ypsilanti—concerts, educational activities, is a collaborator in the project. Jewish- at area Hillel programs and to youth and more information and to register, contact Rabbi a Jewish dance event and an academic centered bereavement support groups young adults at area Jewish congregations Lisa Delson at [email protected] lecture—to explore the bond between Jewish are an important part of the healing and develop a new training module to teach or 665-4744. people and Jewish music. Coordinated process for families experiencing grief. them about the problem of homelessness by the three sponsor organizations, all There are support groups established in and engage them as volunteers with IHN Lunch and Learn with Rabbi Levy Jewish congregations and organizations congregational settings from time to time client families. Funding will be used to do Fridays, February 1, 8, 15, 22, Noon–1 p.m. in Washtenaw County will be invited to that serve primarily the members of that outreach and to develop and implement the Creation: A Religious View of Science. participate and collaborate. Funding will be particular congregation. However, an training module. Come for an informal discussion about the used to engage teachers and performers, and ongoing support group open to all Jewish Neal Blatt, chair of Federation’s Jew- intersection between religion and science. All to leverage additional community funding. adults in Washtenaw County does not exist. ish Community Impact Fund, expressed sessions are held in the Adult Lounge and are “Generations Skype,” proposed by Jewish The Jewish Bereavement Support Group his satisfaction with the projects funded in open to the community. Lunch is not provided, Family Services, will address the difficulties will be co-facilitated by Rabbi Sara Adler, 2013. “Our funding has extended beyond bring your own. of older adults who do not have access to the a Jewish chaplain at the University of Federation’s usual recipients. Community internet and are unable to visit with relatives Michigan Health System with experience members came together and collaborated February Beit Café: who live far away to stay in communication as a grief counselor, and by a clinical social to form new projects that will add to the Adult education night with their loved ones. worker from Jewish Family Services to cultural life and services available to Jewish Monday, February 25, 7–9 p.m. JFS will schedule 30-minute Skype assure that both spiritual and psychological community members. Through the Impact Join TBE for the third Beit Café of 5773. sessions between an older adult and their support needs are addressed. Funding will Fund, Federation is partnering with agen- Participants may choose two of four classes children or grandchildren facilitated by be used to meet all costs so the service can cies, congregations, the campus and com- to attend with a refreshment break around 8 a trained volunteer who will arrive with be offered free to participants. munity members to address the issues of pm. Topics this month include: Hamentaschen a 3G enabled iPad. The volunteer will Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN) isolation, homelessness, grief, Jewish cul- baking and Purim discussion with Rabbi make the connections and facilitate the at Alpha House is an emergency shelter tural education and our local history.” Delson; Sisterhood: A Centennial Celebration conversation on a regular basis so that not for children and families experiencing Bernie Banet, Laurie Barnett, David Do- with Hillary Handwerger; Rabbi Levy on only is family communication enhanced homelessness. Annually, IHN serves up neson, Bruce Friedman, Lauren Katz, and Reform Judaism for Those from Different and isolation reduced, but a supportive to 40 families who live in their shelter Randy Milgrom also served on the Impact Backgrounds; and A Forgotten Viennese ongoing relationship with the volunteer is plus another 20–30 families in a home- Fund Selection Committee n Composer with Stephan Koch playing cello. developed. Funding will be used to purchase based support network. Volunteers from communications equipment and to fund a Jewish congregations have been essential TNT: Purim Party .20 FTE volunteer coordinator. to the success of IHN, but as funding has Saturday, February 23, 9 p.m.–midnight. “The Jewish Bereavement Group” was decreased, the need for volunteers has TNT is inviting everyone who is between proposed by Donna Shewach, Ph.D., and increased, especially to work with children. 20–35 to come to a Purim party at Bab’s Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 7 8 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I Congregations

This month at Beth Israel Congregation Elliot Sorkin, special to the WJN Men’s Club Super Bowl Party Lunch and Laugh Tot Shabbat costumes—as Charlie Brown, Lucy, Snoopy, Sunday, February 3, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, 13 and 20, noon–1:15 p.m. Saturdays, February 9 and 23, 11:15 a.m. and the rest of the Peanuts gang seek out the Participants can enjoy a wide screen These weekly multi-media events, in honor Tot Shabbat is Beth Israel’s Shabbat morning true meaning of Purim. The evening includes experience of the Super Bowl game in Beth of the Purim holiday, take place at the Garfunkel- program for toddlers and preschoolers and their a full Megilla reading, and Snoopy’s Snack Israel’s Social Hall, along with a full spread of Schteingart Activity Center at 2010 Washtenaw families. Tot Shabbat features singing, dancing, Shack will be open throughout the evening delicious foods including chili, hot dogs (both Avenue, led by Rabbi Kim Blumenthal and stories, and prayers to celebrate Shabbat. The with (free) hamentashen and refreshments. meat and vegetarian), potato salad, chips/salsa, Rabbi Robert Dobrusin. “Lunch and Laugh” will leaders of Tot Shabbat are Peretz Hirshbein Noisemakers are provided along with the nosherei, and beverages. feature some classic video and audio selections, on the second Saturday and Jacob Kander Book of Esther with translations (including The event fees are $12 per person to cover as well as opportunities for participants to share on the fourth Saturday of the month. Peretz large print and children’s editions.) the cost of food. Everyone ages 13 and up are their favorite humorous stories and experiences. Hirshbein is the assistant director of the Early Purim Morning Megilla Reading welcome. To RSVP email Harvey Somers at Included in this year’s series will be a tribute to Childhood Center at the Jewish Community Sunday, February 24, 9 a.m. [email protected]. Payment will be the Marx Brothers, some great Purim humor Center of Greater Ann Arbor and the current A Shaharit Service and complete megillah collected at the door. and, of course, the words and music of Allan vice-president for education on the Beth Israel reading will be held beginning at 9 a.m. on Sherman. board of directors. Jacob Kander is Beth Israel’s Henry Gershowitz Memorial Shabbat Participants are asked to bring lunch. program director. Saturday, February 9, 9:30 a.m. Refreshments and cookies will be served. The Tot Shabbat meets at Beth Israel downstairs Volunteers from the congregation lead Lunch and Learn series continues starting on in room 15. Following services child-size tables every part of the service on this Shabbat February 27. are set out for Tot Shabbat kids and their families that honors the memory of Beth Israel’s are always invited to stay to enjoy a past-president, Henry Gershowitz. Until he Tradition and Change: How Rabbis lunch with the rest of the congregation. passed away in 1998, Gershowitz was not Interpret Jewish Law in Conservative only a pillar of the congregation, he was also Judaism Mini Minyan a regular at Shabbat services, often leading Saturday, February 9, 11:15 a.m. Thursday evenings, February 7, 14, 21 and 28, 8 p.m. Pesukei D’zimrah, and he also served as the Mini Minyan is Beth Israel’s Shabbat morning Questions of Jewish law from the Wednesday night minyan captain. Gershowitz service on the second Saturday each month for perspective of the Conservative Movement encouraged new members to participate all kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade. Mini will be discussed at these sessions that take in leading the Saturday service which has Minyan was designed in collaboration with place in the Beth Israel Adult Library. Among Purim Celebration 2012 inspired Beth Israel Men’s Club and Women’s many of the parents from Beth Israel and serves those issues discussed will be tattooing and League to honor him with this annual event. as a bridge for kids between Tot Shabbat and Purim morning. The reading will be followed by body piercing, how Jewish astronauts should The service is followed by kiddush. This year Kehillat Shabbat. It shares many of the favorite brunch in the Social Hall. There is no charge for observe Shabbat while traveling in space, contributions to the JTS Torah Fund are being songs and stories from Tot Shabbat while brunch and all are welcome. the concept of trading “land for peace,” and collected prior to the event. beginning to teach prayers and incorporate other fascinating questions. “Cirque du Beth Israel: a circus For more information or to sign up, contact activities similar to Kehillat Shabbat. The Mini Dennie Carbeck at 663-0452 or dencarb@ Famed tzedakah educator Danny Siegel Minyan service is led by program director Jacob celebration featuring Cirque Amongus” Sunday, February 24, noonk–2 p.m. comcast.net. Online sign-up is available on Monday, February 11, 7 p.m. Kander with special games and activities led Aspiring performers in elementary Beth Israel’s website, www.bethisrael-aa.org. Danny Siegel will present “There’s No by a team of parent volunteers. All parents are school can learn circus acts such as tightrope See “Events Sign-up.” Such Thing As a Small Mitzvah: More welcome to join in this service along with their walking, hula hooping, and barrel rolling. Than 36 (2 X Chai) Easy Ways To Make a children. Mini Minyan meets at Beth Israel on World Wide Wrap Preschoolers will be able to participate in BIG Difference With Just a Little Tzedakah the second Saturday of the month downstairs in Sunday, February 3, 9:30 a.m. all of the circus activities along with their Money And/or a room 16. Beth Israel Congregation, together with parents help. Cirque Amongus was recently Minimum of Time, Jews around the world, will celebrate the Kehillat Shabbat featured at “Top of the Park” during the 2012 Effort, Stamina, mitzvah of tefillin at their morning minyanim, Saturday, February 9, 11 a.m. Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Talents and joining thousands of others in the 13th annual Kehillat Shabbat is Beth Israel’s Shabbat Personal Strengths ‘’World Wide Wrap,” sponsored nationally by morning service for kids in 3rd–5th grade. The 25th anniversary gala, celebrating and Preferences.” the Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC). program is designed for kids to have a great Rabbi Dobrusin Danny Siegel Beth Israel is known for its Polar Bear photo Shabbat experience, including a kid-friendly Sunday, April 28, at 6 p.m. is one of the of the participants taken outside (regardless of service along with games and other activities each Beth Israel wll honor Rabbi Robert world’s greatest the weather) after the Shaharit service, which month to help teach about holidays and Jewish Dobrusin for his 25 years of service to the experts on micro is posted online together with those from values while building a stronger community for congregation at this dinner fundraiser. Rabbi philanthropy. For congregations around the world. The World the kids in a fun way. Gabe Pachter, a senior at Dobrusin has served as rabbi at Beth Israel more than 30 years Wide Wrap at Beth Israel is co-sponsored by the University of Michigan, facilitates a service since 1988. He received his B.A. in near eastern he has lectured the Beth Israel Women’s League, as well as by that is filled with student participation in the and Judaic studies from Brandeis University Danny Siegel in hundreds of the Beth Israel Men’s Club. prayers, interactive discussions, and always and an M.A. and rabbinic ordination from communities on the topic of personalized The mitzvah of wrapping tefillin is one of ends with a special snack. Kehillat Shabbat is a the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. tzedakah and tikkun olam (fixing the world). the oldest Jewish rituals. Instruction will be great time once a month for elementary school In 2010, he received an honorary Doctor of He is a dynamic and charismatic speaker. provided for those who need assistance and students to celebrate Shabbat, to schmooze, Divinity Degree from JTS. Siegel is sometimes referred to as “The Most extra sets of tefillin will be available. and to learn together. Kehillat Shabbat meets at Rabbi Dobrusin is an active supporter Famous Unknown Jewish Poet in America.” It is interesting to note that a study in the Beth Israel on the second Saturday of the month of many different Jewish organizations and Among his not-well-enough-known poetry Journal of Chinese Medicine reported that downstairs in room 12. was recently named co-chair of Rabbis for books are A Hearing Heart and Unlocked the wearing of tefillin not only helps one Human Rights-North America. He is a Doors, as well as, Mitzvah Maniac, The World’s spiritually, it may have other positive mental Beth Israel Café founding member of the Interfaith Round Greatest Expert on Microphilanthropy, The effects. It turns out that wearing tefillin places Sunday, January 13, 9:30 a.m.–noon Table of Washtenaw County and has served Feeling Person’s Thinker, and The Pied Piper pressure on certain parts of one’s arms and Men and women are invited to Beth Israel’s on the board of directors for several other of Tzedakah. His volume Healing: Readings heads that “form a potent acupuncture point Social Hall for a few minutes or the entire community agencies. The community is and Meditations combines poetry and prose formula… aimed at elevating the spirit and morning for free coffee and . They may use invited to this event. Contact the Beth Israel and classical Jewish texts for those in need of clearing the mind.” their laptops (the entire synagogue is wireless) office for an invitation. healing words. The World Wide Wrap and a Shaharit to socialize or to read. The cafe is planned and Siegel has a bachelor’s degree in service will be followed by coffee, bagels, and sponsored by the Beth Israel Women’s League. General community is always welcome comparative literature from Columbia . For more information on joining Beth All of Beth Israel’s events, plus all educational University’s School of General Studies, and a Israel’s World Wide Wrap, contact Haran A Charlie Brown Purim! offerings are open to the general community, bachelor’s and master’s of Hebrew literature Rashes at 660-9283 or by e-mail to haran@ Saturday, February23 often at no cost. For further information, call from the Jewish Theological Seminary of umich.edu. Additional information about the Maariv/Havdallah 7:15 p.m., Megilla Reading 665-9897 or visit www.bethisrael-aa.org. n America. He is one of three recipients of World Wide Wrap is available on the Internet and Program 7:30 p.m. the prestigious 1993 Covenant Award for at http://worldwidewrap.org/, where tefillin The general community is invited to join Exceptional Jewish Educators. are also available for purchase. the fun—both adults and children wear

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10 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I Israel

The consequences of Israel’s vote By Uriel Heilman (JTA)—A few observations about the Israeli them from Jewish Home and Yesh Atid. Jewish election results: Home is led by a son of American immigrants Right-left split changes, but not a game to Israel, businessman-turned-politician Naftali changer: From an outsider’s perspective, Israel Bennett, and Yesh Atid is guided by Lapid, a would seem to a very politically unstable place. former TV personality and the son of the late The biggest party in the previous , politician Yosef “Tommy” Lapid.

Prime Minister Kadima, crashed from 28 seats to two. The No. 3 Women: The new Knesset will have more party, Yisrael Beiteinu, hitched its wagon to the women; Yesh Atid leads the way with eight ruling party, Likud, but their combined list lost female representatives. The Likud-Beiteinu list about a quarter of its seats, down to 31 from 42. has seven, Labor has four, Meretz has three Meanwhile, a party that didn’t exist until a few and Jewish Home has two. Hatnua and Hadash months ago, Yesh Atid, emerged as the 120-seat each has one. Among the newcomers will be the Knesset’s second largest with 19 seats. body’s first Ethiopian-Israeli woman, Penina Yet despite the swapping of party labels, not Tamnu-Shata of Yesh Atid, an attorney who much has changed in the right-left power split. immigrated to Israel at age 3 during Operation Yes, the right wing lost a little ground—from 65 Moses. seats in the last Knesset to 60 seats in the new The end of Kadima: Twice in its short history, one. But within the rightists’ camp, votes moved the Kadima leader occupied the prime minister’s rightward from the more moderate Likud to the office. But in just one election cycle, the party Jewish Home party. Also, it would be a mistake went from Israel’s largest faction to just two to lump together all the centist and left-wing seats. Various factors doomed Kadima: the rise parties. The biggest winner of the center, Yesh of Yesh Atid, whose socioeconomic-focused Atid, espouses positions on Palestinian-related platform and charismatic leader peeled away issues that in many respects are not dissimilar centrist voters; Livni’s failure to gain adherents to Likud’s: Both favor negotiations with the for Kadima and subsequent defection to her Palestinians (though skeptics say Likud’s new party, Hatnua; and Shaul Mofaz’s decision position is more rhetorical than genuine) and to join, albeit briefly, the Likud-led ruling retaining the large Jewish settlement blocs in coalition. It’s not the end of centrist politics in the West Bank while opposing any division Israel, but it appears to be nearly the end of the With Handmade of Jerusalem. Most notably, Yesh Atid leader road for the party started by Ariel Sharon as a has made clear that he wants to join breakaway from Likud. a coalition with Likud, which is led by Prime Bibi weakened: Netanyahu supporters used Candy Bars from Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. to herald him as Bibi, King of Israel. So did We choose the best quality, most flavorful Even if centrist parties such as Yesh Atid Time magazine just a few months ago. But with are massed with the leftists, they constitute a the combined Likud-Yisrael Beiteinu list falling ingredients we can find and transform them into minority of fewer than 50 seats; the balance by a quarter after what was widely panned as old-fashioned, hand-crafted candy bars in four goes to the Arab parties. a lackluster campaign, it’s difficult to make the exclusive flavors: Zzang!® Original, Ca$hew Cow™, New priorities: With Israelis deeply case that Netanyahu’s star is burning brighter. Wowza and What the Fudge®? pessimistic about the chances for imminent He’s almost sure to capture the premiership peace, a significant number of voters went for again -- now comes the horse trading that is parties that made socioeconomic issues, not Israeli coalition building — but it seems it will be security, the centerpiece of their campaigns. more for lack of an alternative than enthusiasm Yesh Atid ran a campaign about social and for Netanyahu. economic issues, and Labor leader Shelly Hello, : If there was any Yachimovich, who led the party to 15 seats, up enthusiasm on the right wing this time, it from eight in the last Knesset, virtually ignored appeared to be for Naftali Bennett, leader of the security issues in her campaign. This represents newly constituted Jewish Home party (itself a “They [Zzang! bars] remind me of a sea change from the old days, when campaigns successor to the National Religious Party). The the 1930s bars that were hand-made, were all about security. Tzipi Livni’s Hatnua party captured 11 seats, up from just three as the slab style with candy love.” bucked the trend, emphasizing peace with the NRP in the last Knesset. Bennett, who supports Beth Kimmerle, author of The History of Candy Palestinians. The result: six seats. annexation of parts of the West Bank, is likely New faces: The 19th Knesset will see a plethora to apply pressure on Netanyahu to shift further of new members, with more than a quarter of right on security issues. n the parliament occupied by first-timers, most of Find out more at www.zingermanscandy.com

Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 11 IYouth

Making thinking visible Hadar Dohn and Jennifer Rosenberg, special to WJN hat is thinking? When you tell lot about thinking lately and I’m curious about someone you are thinking, what what’s going on inside your heads when you W kinds of things might actually be think.” She started posing engaging, open- going on in your head?” These are the ques- ended questions to her class such as, “When Your feet are in good hands tions we asked ourselves as we as embarked on you are doing math, do you see numbers in an in-depth look at thinking – ours and our your head? If not, what do you see?” and “Do The Midwest’s largest selection of Naot shoes available at Mast Shoes

HDS faculty members Jennifer Rosenberg and Carol Gannon invest time in professional development.

students’. As a part of our professional learn- you think in color?” These types of questions ing practices, the HDS teachers have begun a open the door to the kinds of conversations that book study of the text Making Thinking Vis- facilitate and clarify thinking. ible, by Ritchhart, Church, and Morrison from Looking deeply at various aspects of Project Zero (http://www.pz.harvard.edu). The students’ thinking provide us with a tremendous book encourages us to develop the capacities amount of information to aid in the planning and processes for understanding and express- and assessment for learning (formative) and of ing thinking in service to its connection to un- learning (summative). A student was tackling a derstanding and engagement. In our discussion math problem by looking at number patterns. He filled in the three-digit numbers in a peculiar way and explained that since he noticed that the numbers were “minus ten” he did not need Morah Leah Kessler opened to think about the “ones” and the “hundreds.” He first filled in all the missing numbers with class one day with this message, the hundreds and ones 8___5, 8___5, etc. and “I’ve been thinking a lot about later went in to fill in the tens, 865, 855, etc. The ability to notice patterns and reason about thinking lately and I’m curious them are critical goals in the common core standards in mathematics. Helping students about what’s going on inside identify and articulate their thinking not only leads the student to understanding his your heads when you think.” or her own thinking, but also the assists the teacher in determining the conceptions and of this text, we are breaking apart chapters and misconceptions that will ultimately inform www.mastshoes.com engaging in dialogue about strategies, routines instruction. and elements of instruction that will not only In designing our professional learning, we 734-662-8118 guide learners to develop and strengthen their strive to study topics that help us refine the thinking skills, but also their skills in expressing learning and teaching that takes place at our this thinking. school. We continuously look at new research Thinking is invisible and one of the and explore a variety of opportunities for study. Monday-Wednesday: 10-6 challenges this book extends is an opportunity We read articles, evaluate student work, observe to think about and develop skills to help make each other’s teaching, and attend workshops. Thursday-Friday: 10-7 this invisible process more visible. In doing so, Being able to discuss thought processes, make we gain a wider lens into not only what our connections, formulate questions and reason Saturday: 10-6 students understand, but also how they are concretely and abstractly are some of the areas understanding it. “This book has inspired me of focus for conversations about thinking. We Sunday: Closed to investigate what awareness my students have firmly believe that both teachers and students of their own thinking, as well as their ability should engage in learning activities that pique to articulate it,” reflects second grade general their interest and inspire them to want to studies teacher, Leah Kessler. Morah Leah, as explore further. This book study has been such she is called by her students, began to explore a springboard for HDS teachers and staff. n Mast Shoes | 2517 Jackson Ave this curiosity with her class by modeling her To learn more about Hebrew Day School, call own interest in the idea. She opened class one Westgate Shopping Center | Ann Arbor, Mi 48103 971-4633 or email to [email protected] day with this message, “I’ve been thinking a

12 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 fair trade JCC’s new camp, youth & family director & Organic Halye Aisner, special to the WJN chOcOlate he Jewish Community Center of Greater positions and brings variety of experience from Ann Arbor welcomes Michael Sandweiss both the education and camping worlds. He a sweet choice for your sweetie T as their new Camp, Youth and Family spent several summers working at residential Programs Director. camps in Michigan, North Carolina Sandweiss most recently and Canada. He was also both a served as the camp and site teacher and athletic director at Nova director at Camp Jacobson/Sid Southeastern University in Fort Jacobson Jewish Community Lauderdale, Florida. Center in Old Westbury, New Sandweiss is looking forward to York. Prior to that, he was the bringing his enthusiasm and passion director of athletics at the Jean for children to the JCC and Camp and Samuel Frankel Jewish Raanana. He is married to wife Jackie, Academy of Metropolitan and has two daughters, Emma (9) Detroit. During his tenure at the and Madeline (6). When not at work, school, he spent his summer’s he enjoys spending time with his working as the Director of Michael Sandweiss children, playing golf and cooking. Specialty Camps at the Jewish Community Center For more information on Camp Raanana or in West Bloomfield, Michigan. youth and family programs, contact Michael at Sandweiss has held significant leadership [email protected] or 971-0990. n ECC enrollment begins March 4 Peretz Hirshbein, special to the WJN As in past years, the Jewish Community Center studies, and physical development are combined of Greater Ann Arbor Early Childhood Center with Jewish celebrations and values to create an will be accepting applications for child care and integrated curriculum. pre-school programs for the coming school This year, the state of Michigan is starting the year beginning Monday, March 4, for children process of rolling back the kindergarten entry date and siblings currently enrolled in the ECC. from December 1 to September 1. With Michigan’s Applications from member families of JCC adoption this year, along with 44 other states, of the affiliate organizations (Temple Beth Emeth, Common Core Standards for K–12 education the 216 n. fOurth avenue, ann arbOr | 734 . 994 . 9174 | peOplesfOOd.cOOp Beth Israel Congregation, Hebrew Day School, state has decided that meeting common standards Jewish Cultural Society, etc.) will be accepted demands having the same kindergarten entry date beginning Monday March 11. Enrollment for as those other states. So what does this mean for the general public begins Monday, March 18. families? Long-term, it means that all children will The ECC offers programs for children ages be 5 years old upon kindergarten entry. But short 2 months to 5 years. Infants thrive in the ECC’s term, it means that many children who had been newly re-designed infant rooms, and children over tracking to enter kindergarten this fall will have the age of 3 can participate in full- and half-day to wait for another year. The ECC is planning a preschool programs designed to prepare children new program that will challenge these veteran for kindergarten. The ECC’s Active Learning preschoolers and meet their changing needs. Why did HighScope approach provides a responsive For more information about the JCC Early curriculum that allows teachers to challenge Childhood Center, contact Early Childhood Mrs. Horowitz and nurture children at all developmental levels. Director Peretz Hirshbein at 971-0990 or ecc@ Language and literacy, math, science, social jccfed.org. n get hearing aids?

Registration now open for Camp Gan Israel “I just couldn’t hear people at meetings. Mendy Rimler, special to the WJN I wasn’t able to take an active part or contribute.” Summer on the mind yet? science, balloon twisting, and creative cooking to This year’s camping season at Camp Gan chess, dance, ultimate Frisbee, and woodworking. Israel in Ann Arbor, kicks off on June 24, but i9 Sports will be once again headline the sports We can help you stay active. And improve your life. early registration will begin on February 15. schedule. This summer, Camp Gan Israel will debut new “By introducing the health and fitness aspect health and fitness activities where children can at camp, our goal this summer is to help kids A hearing evaluation by my staff of expert understand the impacts of the Audiologists can find and help overcome any things they do on a regular basis to their bodies,” says Shternie Zwiebel, problem. director of the camp. “Basic activities like eating and playing will take on Please call (734) 429-1520 or (800) 851-6672 a new depth, and our campers will to schedule a hearing evaluation. I’m confident learn to be more responsible of their we can help, just as we’ve helped countless health.” others thoughout Washtenaw County. There will be two field trips a week, and will include destinations like ice skating, bowling, water M.O.S.A Hearing Aid Centers parks, rock climbing, and children’s & Audiology Services museums. The Pioneers program 420 W. Russell St., Suite 101, Saline, MI for children entering grades 5–8 will www.mosaaudiology.com feature rock climbing, horseback gain a deeper appreciation for healthy living and riding, chef camp, movie camp, a two-day trip to nutritious eating habits. Cedar Point, and two-day overnight trip. Present this ad for $250 off a set The mainstay activities will also be offered this Camp for 2013 runs June 24 through August Save of premium digital hearing aids. year. At “funshops,” children can choose their own 9. For more information, call 995-3276 *5 or email MOSA Hearing Aid Centers adventure with activities that range from magic, [email protected]. n Lisa Saulles $250 Expires December 31, 2013 • ref. code WJN Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 13 I Film

Hava Nagila film chronicles song’s journey from shtetl to cliché By Chavie Lieber NEW YORK (JTA)—You’re at a wedding or Nagila blared in the background was a tribal and Chasidic leaders encouraged music as Folds and Regina Spektor have performed bar mitzvah, mingling at the bar or catching moment with spiritual resonance. Part of a a way to combat the tragedies of everyday it. Last summer it was the soundtrack for up with a distant relative, when you hear it— generation raised on the 1971 film adaption life. When a wave of European immigrants U.S. Olympian Ally Raisman’s gold medal- the opening notes of a familiar tune that as if of Fiddler on the Roof, she knew the song moved to Israel in the early 1900s, they winning performance in the floor exercise by some invisible force carries you and other cold but understood little about its origins. took their niggun with them, where it later at the London Games. And though The Wall guests to the dance floor for the rousing Turns out, it doesn’t go back nearly as far became representative of Zionist culture. Street Journal noted recently that some see it dance circle ritual. In 1915, the prominent as cliche and avoid having it played it at their Does Hava Nagila work this kind of magic musicologist Abraham Zevi affairs—Grossman refers to these folks as because it was handed down at Sinai and thus Idelsohn adapted the song with “Hava haters”—it may be the most popular encoded in the Jewish DNA? Or is it a tale from Hebrew lyrics. Three years later Jewish song on the planet. the European shtetl, albeit one with a timeless he unveiled his new variation In the film, which includes a hora dancing message and an irrepressible melody? at a Jerusalem concert. “Hava tutorial, Grossman journeys to Sadagora as It is these questions that Roberta Nagila,” literally “let us well as other obscure places where the song Grossman addresses in her new film, Hava rejoice,” went on to hit its peak hit. The film notes how popularHava Nagila Nagila (The Movie), which will screen at the popularity in the 1950s and became with non-Jewish music lovers and upcoming New York Jewish Film Festival ‘60s, and became a favorite pop features musicians such as Lena Horne, the before hitting theaters nationwide in March. tune for American Jews. Cuban-American salsa performer Celia The film, three years in the making, explores “It’s unclear if Idelsohn Cruz and the pop singer Connie Francis. the phenomenon behind the iconic folk song really knew the extent of how Grossman skillfully portrays Hava Nagila and seeks to explain why the melody has far his song would go, but after as a symbol of American Jewish identity3 been so beloved over the years. that concert celebrating the and postulates that future generations will “When I first started doing research for British victory in Palestine, the continue to see the song as iconic—with or the film, people thought I was crazy and I was as Sinai. streets of Jerusalem erupted and the song without the eye rolls. Through the film, she worried I wouldn’t find anything substantial The song took off,” said Mark Kligman, a professor seeks to give the song some depth beyond enough,” Grossman told JTA. “But what I really was first of Jewish musicology at the Hebrew Union the overplayed ditty at bar mitzvahs. Viewers found was that this song is a porthole into 200 sung as a College-Jewish Institute of Religion. must decide if the song can still be redeemed. years of Judaism’s culture and spirituality.” Chasidic “Israel was a vacuum at that point, with “I believe that Hava has actually accrued Grossman’s inspiration for the film came niggun, or wordless melody, immigrants from all over who had very little a great deal of meaning and depth on its from memories of dancing to the song at in the court of the Ruzhiner rebbe, Israel in common. They were dealing with their long journey from Ukraine to YouTube,” family affairs. A product of what she calls Friedman, who lived in the Ukrainian town identity, and the need for music, and this Grossman said. ”Hava’s journey is our a “religiously assimilated but culturally of Sadagora in the 18th century. song unified them,” he said. journey. By understanding where Hava has affiliated” background, Grossman said A Jewish shtetl in the Pale of Settlement, Decades later, the same is true. The come from, we understand where we have twirling with family members while Hava Sadagora often was subjected to pogroms, song is widely covered—Bob Dylan, Ben come from and more.” n

Justice in a gray world By Robert Nicholson srael uses the pretense of law to domi- to have been utopias before the arrival of the maintain the existing laws of an occupied difficult. Alexandrowicz explains the nate and disenfranchise Palestinians in Israeli juggernaut. No mention is made of the territory, except for reasons of public order inequality between Palestinians, living under I the territories. So argues Ra’anan Al- way their previous occupiers, Egypt and Jor- and security. The filmmaker tells how Ariel military rule, and Jewish settlers, who enjoy exandrowicz in his documentary The Law dan, governed the territories between 1948 and Sharon invoked the Ottoman law of mawat the protections of Israeli law. This accusation in These Parts, a recent favorite on the New 1967. Little attention is given to the murderous (dead or unused) land to allow Jewish of procedural and substantive inequality is York film circuit. Since the film has garnered Palestinian “fedayeen,” whose in- the film’s one major criticism that sticks. nearly universal acclaim, it is appropriate to surgency doomed any hopes for Reviewers have quoted Brig. Gen. Dov ask whether the judgment is deserved. normalcy. After a few court cases Shefi, who says in the film that “order and The film aims to examine Israel’s military are mentioned and broad conclu- justice don’t always go hand in hand.” While regime in the Palestinian territories since the sions drawn, the narrative cuts off this is true, Col. Oded Pesensson’s description Six-Day War. Israel, the movie tells us, has used abruptly around 2000 with barely of the West Bank legal environment as a “gray a species of “law” — in reality, a framework of a hint of subsequent events — like world” seems more compelling. We are not control masquerading as law — to govern the the Gaza disengagement. Every- speaking here of dispassionate bystanders territories for Israel’s exclusive benefit. Rather thing, it seems, can be blamed on applying abstract notions of justice to distant than extend Israeli law to the territories, Israel Israel’s mili- events but of a military administration devised a military regime that pilfers Palestinian tary lawyers. forced by war to govern a hostile territory land while citing “emergency conditions” to In fact, until political leaders negotiate a solution. A deny the Palestinians basic human rights. h o w e v e r , tension between order and justice does not Israel resurrected obscure Ottoman land Israel’s mili- seem all that remarkable. laws to justify Jewish settlement and, worse, tary regime Some Palestinians have suffered injustice manipulated these laws to prefer Jews to was not born in recent decades, and the film is right to native Arabs. Israel’s allowing Palestinians to ex nihilo. It settlement and expects his audience to remind us of that. Yet justice is an elusive petition the High Court of Justice for redress of is undeniable be incredulous — yet the Ottoman Land concept in this grayest of worlds, and the grievances does not bespeak Israeli liberality; — though Alexandrowicz does not Code was, and is, the legal regime governing Israeli military regime is an outgrowth rather, it cleverly reinforces Israeli hegemony mention it — that Israel’s attack was directed the West Bank. It may not have been wise, of the conflict, not the source of its evils. by giving it the stamp of legality whenever the at states openly calling for Israel’s destruction but there was nothing radical about Sharon’s Enumerating its shortcomings is valid, Court rules in favor of the state, which is often. just two decades after the Holocaust. After the applying the law of mawat. but the exercise must at least apprise the Alexandrowicz acknowledges his subjective war, Israel found itself in control of historic In his most outrageous leap, Alexandrow- audience of the historical, political and legal gaze. But his admission of subjectivity cannot hotbeds of anti-Israel sentiment populated icz argues that Israel’s allowing Palestinians complexity surrounding it. Law in These relieve him of responsibility for the film’s faults. by a million hostile Palestinians. Confronted to petition the High Court is an under- Parts fails in this obligation. n The major fault is the film’s narrow per- with the prospect of an extended occupation, handed way of legitimating the occupation. spective. The Israeli military is put on trial for Israel set out to establish transitional justice In fact, Israel granted this concession despite Robert Nicholson is a 2012–13 Tikvah Fellow. its life with almost no reference to the com- complying with international law. the absence of any historical precedent. The This article was first published by Jewish Ideas Daily (www.jewishideasdaily.com) and is re- plex situation that gave rise to the occupa- Alexandrowicz condemns Israel for film does not mention the important cases printed with permission. tion. The narrative effectively begins in June refusing to extend its own law to the in which the High Court has ruled against 1967 with Israel’s preemptive attack on three Palestinian territories, yet the Hague the state. Arab states. Gaza and the West Bank appear Regulations require an occupying power to The issue of Jewish settlement is more

14 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I Community Photo Album

Noreen DeYoung honored at JCC celebration

On Saturday evening, January 12, the community gathered to celebrate Noreen DeYoung’s 25 years of service to the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor. Families, teachers, colleagues, adult alumni, and community leaders joined together to tell stories about Noreen, remember their time at the JCC Early Childhood Center, and dance to the Klezmer music of Neal Alexander’s band. 1

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2 7 Congratulations to 6 Noreen DeYoung 5 on her 25 years of service!

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1. Ann Arbor JCC Board President, Harriet 4. Haley Margolis and Jerry Lax 9. Theresa Theophilos and 12. Nancy Margolis, JoEllen Gutterman Bakalar honoring Noreen DeYoung 5. Gabe Rosenberg, Jesse Rosenberg, Noreen DeYoung and Rabbi Bob Levy 2. Honoree Noreen DeYoung’s family Levi Rosenberg, Sam Greenberg and 10. Naya and Bohdi Loftus dancing 13. Former student of DeYoung, (Nicole Pemo, Josh DeYoung, Gracie Greenberg Emily Kahan Noreen DeYoung, Ray DeYoung, 11. Past and present JCC /Early Childhood Jude Kander, Jessica Kander and 6. Linda and Zoe Gerkin Center faculty and staff (Lisa Brown, 14. Judy Lax and Heather Dombey Jake Kander) 7. Robin Axelrod, Harriet Bakalar, Elaine Kim Braun, Rhonda Smiley, Susan 15. Israeli folk dancing Margolis and Edwin Tobes Horowitz, Leah Kleiner Gunsberg, 3. Rabbi Ilana Baden and new Ann Arbor Michelle Paris, Katy Czarnecki) 16. Ray DeYoung and Noreen DeYoung JCC director, Jeff Baden 8. Jamie Tauber and baby Photos by Tobi Hollander

Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 15 I Best Reads

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is moving and inspiring Rachel Urist, staff writer fter hearing Jonathan Safran Foer’s to discover what the key unlocks. First he Syndrome. He remembers the intellectual baffling pages of nothing but numbers, charming and evocative talk at looks up every person named “Black” in New games he played with his father, including which drive home Oscar’s desperation to A Federation’s Main Event last fall, I York City. Then he spends almost a year of looking for mistakes in the New York Times. understand what has happened. Among turned to his second novel, Extremely Loud weekends visiting these people to ask what, The snap, crackle and pop of Oskar’s brain Oskar’s obsessions is Stephen Hawking, and Incredibly Close. I had already read Ev- if anything, they know about the key. evokes the chaos of 9/11, the day that refuses whose book, A Brief History of Time, serves erything is Illuminated, his first book, and I He treks through all five boroughs of the to end. Anyone old enough to read this book as a potent symbol for all that wears Oskar am a great fan of his recent American Hagga- city. Fearing elevators, trains, planes, and today remembers the images that haunt this down. For the boy, time has been compressed protagonist: planes flying into the towers, into a single day, a single hour. He takes to firefighters running in, hoards running writing to Stephen Hawking. He gets many down the streets of Manhattan, papers form replies. His initial letter says, simply: flying, clouds of ash, fear, confusion, panic. “Dear Stephen Hawking, Can I please be Foer funnels it all into this book, turning your protégé? Thanks, Oskar Schell.” horror into an almost surreal fantasy. When, in a school play, Oskar plays Yorick, Foer’s wit flits about the book, along Foer’s imagination takes us into the boy’s with Oskar’s uncanny flights of fancy. Playing a skeleton, Oskar insights. Foer suddenly holds forth extemporaneously— regularly turns and silently—in a rant that would make the emotion into heavens cringe. The book also incorporates prose. When photos and strange typefaces that further the boy feels imprint Oskar’s soul on the reader. The overwhelmed photos are ordinary objects: a doorknob, a by sorrow, he window, a falling cat (to note the parachute recreates whole effect of its body), and an exterior wall of the conversations world trade center with a single body in free with his lost fall beside it. Ordinary markers morph into father, a feat easily the signs of these extraordinary times—and accomplished, with the boy’s compulsive pursuit. his photographic Like the unpredictable endings of Foer’s memory. Oskar sentences during his talk at the Federation cannot rest until event, his book, too, brings unexpected he learns how his twists. In keeping with his precocity, Oskar Jonathan Safran Foer father died and where he has comes to understand that he is helpless dah, newly re-translated by Nathan England- many other means of transport, he spends gone. Did he jump? Was he incinerated? Was to change the past. What’s lost cannot be er, with commentaries by four contemporary a good deal of time on foot. With no idea he buried alive? The images seared into his reclaimed. But he can justify his survival by Jewish scholars. In Foer’s talk in Ann Arbor, of what he will find, he finds himself often brain (and ours) return to haunt him. Oskar making this journey. And we, the readers, he provided a first-hand demonstration of wearing “heavy boots,” his shorthand for may close his eyes, but the visions persist. cover vast emotional tracts in this tender, his unusual mind. Sentences that seemed feeling that the weight of the world rests on Transposing those images into in artful clever, and astonishing work. Great novelists predictable took unexpected turns. The man his shoulders. His thoughts dart from one to prose, Foer offers us Oskar’s visions: of our time have already weighed in on this is as full of surprises as his wonderful novel, the next. This is an intellectually precocious Bodies falling. work. Cynthia Ozick says: “Jonathan Safran Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. kid who cannot fathom a world that will not People waving shirts out of high windows. Foer’s funny, tender, tragic, ingeniously In it, he imagines a nine year old, Oskar, conform to the methodical processes of his Planes going into buildings. imaginative Extremely Loud and Incredibly whose brain fires nonstop in the wake of logical mind. He grows desperate. Bodies falling. Close has all the kick and brio of a child’s his father’s demise in the Twin Towers on The boy never finds answers, but he does Planes going into buildings. wild vision and a child’s wild hurt. Foer’s 9/11. The barrage of thoughts, questions, find a companion on his trek, and eventually People covered in gray dust. nine year old Oskar Schell, confronting associations, plans, ideas, and ruminations he finds his long-absent grandfather. Bodies falling. the cataclysm of our time, is an American keep him focused, determined to find a way The book becomes a study of family Buildings falling. original.” Salman Rushkie says: “Jonathan to reach his father—or some understanding relationships—spousal, filial, parental. Planes going into buildings. Safran Foer’s second novel is everything one of the events. Foer creates a method by which Following the boy’s manic thought processes Planes going into buildings. hoped it would be—ambitious, pyrotechnic, his protagonist, Oskar Schell, embarks on his is a continual reminder of the creative and Buildings falling. riddling, and above all, in its portrait of quest. Deep in his father’s bedroom closet, idiosyncratic mind of the book’s author. Numbers, too, figure large. In Foer’s orphaned Oskar, extremely moving. …An Oskar finds a vase. Inside the vase is an Oskar’s mind is continually flooded with variation of g’matriah (numerology), he exceptional achievement.” envelope. Inside the envelope is a key with ideas and associations, the kind of mind has Oskar contemplate numbers for deeper I cannot say it any better. n the word “Black” written on it. Oscar sets out that many of us associate with Asperger’s meaning. This exercise leads to several

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16 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I On Another Note

David Broza uses power of music to bridge the divide Sandor Slomovits, special to the WJN n late December I attended an unusual the young quartet joined him, their classical collaborative concert at The Berman styled arrangements backing Broza’s already I Center for Performing Arts at the Jew- unique sound, they raised the evening’s ish Community Center of Metropolitan memorable music making to a new, even Detroit. The evening featured David Broza higher level. along with faculty members and students of Beyond his musical prowess, Broza has the Polyphony Foundation. Guitarist, and long had a reputation for harnessing the singer/songwriter, Broza has been a familiar power of his songwriting and singing to name to audiences, Jewish and non-Jewish, humanitarian causes, to fostering tolerance in Israel, the U.S. and internationally, since through music, and in particular to working the late 1970s, and he’s appeared in Detroit for peace in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. many times before. Polyphony, by contrast Many of his song lyrics reflect these passions, is a relative newcomer on the music scene; so his collaboration with Polyphony is a their initial U.S. tour was in late 2011 and natural. Broza only became acquainted they first came to Detroit in June of 2012 with Polyphony in June of 2012 and joined when they played a concert at Troy’s Con- the non-profit’s board of directors soon gregation Shir Tikvah. after. This was the first time that he and the The Polyphony Foundation is a U.S. based Polyphony students performed together. In non-profit that seeks to, in their own words, fact, they only met and rehearsed for the “Use the power of music to bridge the divide first time that morning. But he said after the between Arab and Jewish communities in Israel. The Polyphony Foundation funds music education and other innovative programs to serve Arab and Jewish youth in Israel so that they and their families can come David Broza rehearsing with members of the Polyphony Foundation together through classical music. Polyphony’s awards and credentials, and deservedly so. Again, seeing programs are based on the principle that Their technical facility and musicality were and hearing an classical music has a unique power to immediately evident, and the music soared. Arab and a Jewish transcend cultural and social boundaries and But what was perhaps even more impressive musician creating that creating new channels for engagement was the visual impact of two Jewish and two beauty together was between young members of Israel’s diverse Arab young people communicating and powerfully moving communities is an essential step towards cooperating so intensely and beautifully. To on many different the creation of a just and peaceful society play classical chamber music at all, much levels. in Israel. Polyphony currently reaches more less very, very well, as they did, demands an And then came than 2,000 Arab and Jewish young people and extremely high level of communication— the highlight of provides training and employment for over 40 both listening and conveying information— the evening. David musicians and teachers.” between the players. I found myself very Broza took center The concert I saw in December featured moved listening to the glorious music, and stage to a very warm Polyphony’s Young Galilee Flute Quartet, imagining the many hours these young reception. From the consisting of two Jewish and two Arab Polyphony members in a recent interview with WRCJ radio station in Detroit people had spent together, interacting with first few notes and young musicians, along with violinist and each other to create something so beautiful. chords that he played on his guitar, you knew Polyphony founder Nabeel Abboud-Ashkar, concert, “I hope to continue developing my It was easy to imagine that they now you were witnessing something unique and pianist and Polyphony faculty member Ron musical encounters with Polyphony.” And understood each other, and perhaps trusted masterful. Broza has fashioned a striking Trachtman and of course, Mr. Broza. The Abboud-Ashkar added, “We hope that this is and cared for each other far more than when blend of guitar styles, from flamenco and folk, concert opened with the quartet playing only the beginning of our collaboration with they first met. to blues, rock and pop. His well-worn, nylon Mozart’s String Quartet in D Major with the David Broza.” After the Mozart, Feras Machour played string guitar, electrified for amplification flute taking the first violin part. Seventeen I left the concert feeling hopeful that joint a superb rendition of the familiar Méditation and for some tone modification, sounded at year old flautist, Mais Hriesh, sixteen year efforts like this might eventually lead to the from Thaïs, followed by Hagit Bar Sella times like a classical harp, then like a rock old violinist, Feras Machour, sixteen year day when Jewish and Arab musicians will performing beautifully on a Brahms cello guitar, then flamenco, at times like a drum old violist Tamar Gaon, and sixteen year old share a stage, and no one will even notice or Sonata. Both young players were expertly kit and, occasionally like all of them at once. cellist Hagit Bar Sella all began studying and remark on that aspect of the program, but accompanied on piano by Ron Trachtman, Broza’s voice is an agile, expressive, robust playing their instruments as young children will only see and hear human beings making who then also joined Nabeel Abboud-Ashkar instrument too and the combination of his and all already have garnered impressive music together. n for a stunning Beethoven violin Sonata. singing and playing was arresting. When

w w 316 S. Main Ann Arbor www.TheArk.org Penchansky Call for tickets: 734-763-8587 Whisler Architects KLEZMER GUY Let Encore Sell It For You: Electronics • Musical Instruments Friday, February 15 Designer Items • Antiques & Collectibles Automotive Parts • Sporting Goods Camera & Audio/Visual Equipment Finding New Homes for Great Stuff! 1958 South Industrial (in the Colonial Lanes Plaza) Residential 734.761.6187 Commercial EncoreOnlineResale.com Architecture 734-302-1010 Interior Design www.p-wa.com Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 17 I Travel

Morocco: We’re still here Joanne Steuer, special to the WJN asablanca. The taxi took us through needed farmers and other types of craftsmen to Here there were the Kiddush cups and teffillim. Moroccan Jews. They participated in all walks of congested Casablanca traffic, from the populate the new country and the King obliged. Here were Torah pointers and menorahs, all Moroccan life. They worked as farmers and tailors, C Hassan II, the third largest mosque in Israel certainly wanted the Moroccan Jews clearly of Moroccan design. Perhaps the most goldsmiths and silver smiths, wood workers and the world, to the Moroccan Jewish Museum. and encouraged them to emigrate. However, unusual item was the Meghillat-Hitler. The herders. Their clothes reflected their work and This is the only Jewish museum in an Islamic there is another version to the story. It seems explanation accompanying the exhibit stated their country. Accompanying the clothes was a country. Our driver said he knew the place. But that Morocco was no more hospitable to the that it is a Moroccan tradition to produce other collection of Moroccan silver jewelry. when we arrived in the suburban Casablanca Jews than many European countries. And in meghilla than that of Esther. For example, Down the hall a conference room held neighborhood he couldn’t find it. He called 1948, there were riots against the Jews. Possibly every year on the first of Elul a congregation in an exhibition of sepia photos of historic sites out to an elderly man wearing a djellaba (a Mo- Tangiers read a Meghillat of Jewish Morocco. Also down the hall, roccan style overcoat), who was taking the sun commemorating the on the wall of a room containing parts of a outside a large white house. Immediately, two 1578 defeat and death synagogue, was a 1933 governmental notice policemen leapt from their chairs and rapidly of Sebastian of Portugal. titled, “Appel-A La Population Isrealite du approached our taxi. We had arrived. Sebastian was the king Maroc.” This document urged the Moroccan We were four women, including the who forced Sephardic Jewish population to speak Arabic because it Washtenaw Jewish News editor, traveling with Jews to leave Portugal. was better for them and for the country. a tour group through Morocco. This was our The Meghillat-Hitler The exhibitions required close attention. excursion without the rest of our group. was created in 1943 in They were sparse and emotionally moving, A pristine white washed wall shields 1 the museum from the street. In the small vestibule protecting the entrance 3 was the museum guard standing on his prayer rug facing away from us 2 and praying. Ahead was an empty courtyard laced with white brick paths across very green grass. A few small trees accented the shapes of the paths. A hamsa, the symbol used by both Moslems and Jews, hung over the museum entrance. Walking into the building we passed an easel displaying a picture of the current King of Morocco. A caretaker let us in and asked for the entrance fee. “I’m with the Jewish press,” said the editor. “You’re Jewish. You pay,” replied the caretaker. We laughed and signed in. We each paid 25 durum (approximately $3) and the caretaker turned on the lights. Although we had called ahead there was no one to guide us through the exhibits. this may have 4 Unfortunately for us all the explanations were encouraged people 1. Leaders of the Moroccan Jewish community, early 1900s in French. That left us all a little challenged to leave. By 1956 so 2.Typical dress for Moroccan Jewish women, early 1900s linguistically. But we managed. many had moved 3. In front of the Jewish Museum.(l. to r.) Susan Ayer, Ruth Ann The museum was founded in 1997 with to Israel that the Bromley, Rona Kaplan, and Joanne Steuer the support of the Foundation of Jewish- King became Moroccan Cultural Heritage. The Foundation’s concerned the 4. Megillat Hitler goal is to “bear witness” to the 2,000 years other Arab nations of Jewish life in Morocco, all trace of which would blame him Casablanca to celebrate particularly when thinking about 2,000 years is rapidly disappearing and being distorted for populating the the Allied victory in North in the country. A member of our group, Rona, by rewritten history. In a You Tube video of new state. He therefore prohibited emigration Africa and the rescue of the Jews of Morocco, summed it up at the end of our thought- a Moroccan group visiting the museum, a to Israel. He lifted the ban in 1963 and another Tunisia and Algeria from the Nazis. But even provoking visit. “It’s like the Jews never lived young man said he didn’t even know there 8,000 Jews left Morocco. this story has another side. According to Dr. here and so someone is making sure they don’t had been Jews in Morocco. In the first of the 4 exhibition rooms of Rafael Medoff, in an article in the Jewish Journal disappear,” she said. n Certainly, successive waves of emigration the museum were photos of before and after in March, 2011, the Vichy Office of Jewish For more information on the 15 day Morocco have reduced the Jewish-Moroccan community restoration of old and abandoned synagogues. Affairs continued to operate in Morocco and Sahara Odyssey trip, go to oattravel.com and to a very small minority. Today approximately These attest to the extensive emigration. The Jews continued to be persecuted for at least click on Our Adventures, Africa, Morocco. 5,000 Jewish people are living in all of Morocco, photos showed synagogues from villages, towns another year. The Meghillat-Hitler possibly in contrast to the more than a quarter million and large cities. The architecture ranged from may be a copy of a similar document in the If you go: Musee du Judaisme Moracain who lived here in 1948. There are several small Berber type buildings with rough white Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. But 81,rue chasseur Jules Gros, Casablanca. explanations of why the Jews left in large numbers washed adobe walls to the highly decorative copy or not, it is powerful testimony to the faith Phone: 212 (0) 522 99 49 40 after 1948. One story, told by the Muslim guide plasterwork on the walls and ceiling of the and hopes of Moroccan Jews. Fax: 212 (0) 522 99 49 41 from our tour group, is the Moroccan king synagogue in Tangier. Displays of clothing were in the third room, Email: [email protected] expelled Jews at the request of Israel. Israel Religious objects were in the second room. as were exhibits about the types of work done by [email protected]

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734.483.9619 [email protected] by Dennis Platte

18 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I Kosher Cuisine

Jewish women nurture, celebrate, and nourish thru food work, part 2 Mary Bilyeu, staff writer n the Summer, 2012 issue of this paper, I wrote about some wonderful women who I contribute in numerous and different ways to the food industry here in Ann Arbor. There was such a warm, enthusiastic response to the article that it seemed like an excellent notion to introduce you to several other women who are demonstrating still more diversity in this field—from catering with an international flair to baking treats for those on special diets, from managing a bakehouse that features classic Jewish items to working in restaurant kitchens and facilitating the composting of food waste. Amanda Fisher Julie Rabinovitz Amy Emberling Nikki Klein Whether showcasing the variety and tradition study to be a chef, but I was afraid I would end at several restaurants (including The Earle), in staff and provide a composting container.... of Jewish dishes or engaging in tikkun olam, up hating it as it would be a “job.’” But after be- addition to attending cooking school in Paris. We then weigh, sort, and compost at our local these four women are a significant reason that ing diagnosed with Celiac disease and moving “In the mid 1990s (she) decided to get a real facility. Once degraded, we sell the compost, Ann Arbor’s food scene is thriving. to Ann Arbor, she thought this city would “be job and went to business school and worked at cost, to local farmers.” As Klein says, “We a great place to start (a new) venture”: Tasty as a management consultant.” She didn’t enjoy fit in perfectly and fulfill a needed role in the Amanda Fisher Bakery, which “offers high-end, gluten-free this, though, and found she “missed the food, locavore and Slow Food movement(s).” Amanda Fisher has “always had a passion for baked goods that are also soy-free.” Many of the teamwork.” Emberling and her husband, Originally from Shaker Heights, Ohio, food,” which is “a major part of (her) heritage.” the options—such as brownies, cookies, and Geoff, “happily returned to Ann Arbor” and she Klein was raised in a “foodcentric” family that Having been raised in a kosher home, food “was pies—are vegan, dairy-free, and naturally sug- pursued her calling at the Bakehouse. attended a Reform synagogue in addition to always important in our family, not only making ar-free as well, using only “organic or natural Raised in a Conservative household in spending holidays at her maternal relatives’ sure there was food on the table, but as a cultural ... and local ingredients whenever possible.” Sydney, Nova Scotia—which has supported Conservative one. Her mother, Ilona, “cooked tie to the past.” Her mother’s family had lived in Julie first started selling her treats at the Ann a Jewish community “since at least the early Jewish Hungarian food which (Klein) loved.” Cairo; but in 1956—after the Suez Canal crisis, Arbor Farmers Market, but now they can be 1900s”—Amy’s family “attended services every “That was my comfort food growing up, and and as a result of the subsequent Egyptian decree purchased there as well as Zingerman’s Deli, Friday night and Saturday morning,” and she still is.” Now, Klein and her three children have which not only accused Jews of being “Zionists Zingerman’s Next Door, lab, The Glass House, “went to Hebrew School twice a week from “Shabbat dinner almost every Friday night with and enemies of the state” but which also ordered Sweetwaters, Mighty Good Coffee, and Pilar’s. age 7 to 13” although “it wasn’t a common , with either or their expulsion—“being Jewish they had to Rabinovitz met her Israeli husband, Ran, choice for girls to have a bat mitzvah” and she matzoh balls, and generally steak or chicken,” evacuate the only country they had ever known while on vacation in New Orleans; the couple did not celebrate this simcha. But she tells of and her family “look(s) forward to Shabbat with one suitcase each .... Their large tightly- later moved to New York before marrying in a childhood that “was full of Jewish food and dinners together.” knit family was forced to split up throughout Israel, after Julie “converted to Judaism with a we enthusiastically celebrated the holidays .... I Klein “started working with food when (she) the world to Israel, France, South Africa and Modern Orthodox rabbi.” She has worked in will forever wish to taste my Nanny’s was 12 years old in a small family run ice cream the USA.” Her maternal grandparents and a variety of areas (non-profit, cosmetics, and again and her . Every weekend and candy shop. From there (she) moved on to a their children found themselves transplanted music among them), including having “worked we had brunch where we ate bagels, lox, cheese and wine specialty store,” before studying to Birmingham, England, where Fisher was at a printing house in Brooklyn owned by pickled and . Often on Saturday Environmental Policy at The University of brought up. Food, therefore, reinforced ties to Orthodox Jews. (She) learned so much from evenings we had ... sandwiches with Montreal Michigan while also working at “a part time job the extended family and to tradition. that experience around food and the holidays.” smoked meat and rye bread.” at the Gandy Dancer.” Moving to San Francisco Fortunate “to cook and learn (a continuous Rabinovitz tries to offer traditional Jewish Emberling says that her “work in the food after graduation brought management work quest) in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Berkeley, San items—hamantaschen at Purim, challah, and industry”—specifically at Zingerman’s— in a vegan fine dining establishment and an Francisco, and Boston” before moving to Ann apple honey cake at Rosh Hashanah—and “means that (she’s) baked thousands more “old fashioned (New York) style shop” Arbor nine years ago with her husband and would “like to try making matzah.” She is Jewish breads and pastries than (she) ever which was certified kosher. Once the shop was two sons, Fisher has been able to indulge her determined to find success with sufganyot, too. would have” if she’d chosen a different field; and sold, however, it lost both its certification and “love and knowledge of cooking.” Her culinary Noam, Julie’s and Ran’s son, was born while “it also means that (she’s) usually pretty tired” a large customer base, which increased Klein’s adventures began at the age of 18 when she left they lived in Brooklyn; the family then moved once a holiday arrives. So often “celebrating “understanding of how important kashrut is to home with the intention of spending one year to Ann Arbor. While not religious (and Tasty means managing to get a couple of pieces of a large number of people.” After a detour to Los in Israel. “As happens to many people,” though, Bakery is not certified kosher), they “practice on gefilte fish from Zingerman’s Delicatessen Angeles, Klein then returned to Ann Arbor just she “just could not leave” and spent the next more of a traditional level. (They) light candles and eating them slowly, savoring every bite. when “the foodie scene was exploding!” 12 years there, earning a degree in education for Shabbat ... celebrate Passover with family, and Emberling takes “joy from providing food for “I would say that my work at Beth Israel and literature “whilst working for a caterer in go to the Reconstructionist services during the other people’s celebrations.” ... made the biggest impact religiously on my Jerusalem and then in various restaurants.” High Holidays.” Noam attends the Hebrew Day The Bakehouse has recently been offering life,” according to Klein. After training directly After that, Fisher was able to learn about School, and speaks Hebrew fluently. Julie says that traditional Hungarian foods, as “the largest with then-retiring kitchen coordinator Bernice “California cuisine” while her husband, Shackar the family is “happy we chose to live here. There is Jewish community in Eastern Europe is in Mark–from whom she “learned a TON”— Pinsker, completed his Ph.D. in Berkeley. ... specifically a nice Jewish and Israeli culture here Budapest.” Emberling had “thought it would Klein “came to the conclusion that kashrut is Her own relatives’ enthusiasm for food—a that is congruent with our life.” be fantastic to connect with this community,” not black and white. One person’s kosher is not connection “to their scattered family”— is “the Tasty Baker and says, “I doubt this would have been necessarily another person’s kosher—within a foundation of (her) love for food and cooking.” 646-262-9793 interesting to me if I weren’t Jewish.” family, a congregation, or even on a broader Fisher says, “It is always exciting for me to tastysansgluten.com Zingerman’s, of course, is noted for its Jewish level.” In working with congregants and rabbis, discover and experience food in different places baked goods; and, according to Emberling, Nikki “gained an appreciation of the value with people who share my passion.” And she Amy Emberling “Having a personal connection to this food people place on their observance.” enjoys being a part of others’ celebrations as a Having worked at Zingerman’s Bakehouse has helped me bring the food alive for my co- Working in restaurants or in other food- caterer, “providing fresh and tasty food with “since it opened in 1992,” Amy Emberling workers .... It has also allowed me to bring it related businesses can be difficult for a woman: a personal touch.” This has helped to give her “started as an eager baker” and then became alive for our non-Jewish customers.” “It is not a profession that is ‘family oriented.’” “a deeper understanding of different Jewish a partner 12 years ago. The Bakehouse makes Zingerman’s Bakehouse But Klein believes that it’s possible to find both a communities, and families coming together “traditional, full flavored artisanal breads, 761-2095 niche and personal satisfaction. “It’s a rewarding from far or near to share in dinners or simchas.” pastries and cakes ... (and) quite a variety of zingermansbakehouse.com and dynamic profession, but it requires a lot Amanda’s Kitchen Catering Jewish baked goods.” more than a love of food or being a good cook. 332-8981 Emberling says, “I have always loved to eat, Nikki Klein It requires endless passion and dedication ....” amandaskitchencatering.com to cook and bake, to read about food and to Former Beth Israel Congregation Kitchen And it certainly helps that there is “so much Coordinator Nikki Klein has worked in virtu- Julie Rabinovitz watch food shows ... and after school, one of support, love, and nurturing” in Ann Arbor’s my favorite activities was to bake a new recipe ally every capacity of the food industry, from diverse Jewish community. A native of Grand Ledge, and a graduate of from a cookbook I was studying. My brother preparing meals to her current position as ReValue Waste both Lansing Community College and Michi- nicknamed me Baker Woman.” As Emberling Business Development Representative with 972-7294 gan State University, Julie Rabinovitz tells of puts it, “Food is a calling for me. For some ReValue Waste, a company that composts the revaluewaste.com baking even when she was a little girl: “I loved reason it just speaks to me.” She has worked refuse from area restaurants. “We train their to bake. My grandmother thought I would Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 19 I Calendar

staff. Dance lessons and music will be provided JCC members; $30/non-members. RSVP to SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria by dance teacher extraordinaire Susan Filipiak, Karen Freedland at [email protected] Farquhar, $4 per session.11 a.m.; Dairy Lunch February 2013 proprietor of Swing City Dance Studio. $50/ or phone 971-0990. Buffet, $3, Noon. Games and activities including couple. For more information or to register, Super Bowl Party: BIC Men’s Club. 6 p.m. Mahjong, sewing and quilting. 1 p.m. contact Peretz Hirshbein at peretzhirshbein@ Yiddish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Friday 1 jccfed.org or phone 971-0990. 6–8 p.m. All ages and levels welcome including UM and Israeli Film and Falafel Night: JCC. Enjoy the Monday 4 non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Rabbi Levy’s Lunch and Learn: TBE. Informal company of fellow film lovers with a hearty Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. Discussion. Bring lunch. Noon–1 p.m. falafel dinner and award-winning Israeli film. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. For information, call 936-2367. Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot $10/JCC members; $15/non-members. For Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– OSHER Class: Osher Lifelong Learning Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot more information or to RSVP, contact Karen Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at Institute. Participants will learn about and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6 p.m. Shira and Freedland at [email protected] or Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. investing methods and how to minimize risks. Sukkat Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 p.m. phone 971-0990. 7 p.m. For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 This multi-session class will cover new asset Popsicle Oneg follows. Family Shabbat Service Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. or email [email protected]. Ongoing. allocation methods, stocks, bonds, mutual honoring the 2nd Grade with Youth Choir and Trop Class: TBE. Cantor Rose leads class members funds, ETF’s annuities, real estate, and other Middle School Shir Chadash at 7:30 p.m. through the trop (cantillation) for the weekly assets. Learn how to deal with today’s low First Friday Shabbat: JCS. Once a month Sunday 3 Torah portion, discussing the implications of interest rate and potential high inflation gathering to welcome Shabbat with songs, the trop on the text. For more information, email later. Retirement tax considerations will also candle lighting, wine and challah. Followed Adult Education: JCS. Schmoozing and learning, Cantor Rose at cantorannie@templebethemeth. be discussed. George Levy, PhD, invests as a by a short thematic program in which hosted by Jewish Cultural Society Board of org. Noon–1 p.m. hobby and studies investing strategies. He is members of the congregation offer their Directors. For more information, visit www. Women’s Torah Study with Cantor Rose: TBE. not a registered investment advisor, nor will thoughts. Dinner and socializing after the jewishculturalsociety.org. 10 a.m.–Noon. For information, contact Cantor Annie Rose he try to sell any investments or services. The service. Children always welcome. Held in the World Wide Wrap: BIC. 9:30 a.m. at [email protected]. 7–8 p.m. class will also include lectures by Bob Shaw. lounges of the JCC. Dinner is $10 per person Gan Katan: BIC. Preschool at 10 a.m. Basic Judaism: TBE. For information or to $40 to be paid directly to OLLI. Visit www.olli- umich.org for more information or to register. or $25 for a family of four. RSVP online at Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into register, contact Rabbi Lisa Delson at ldelson@ 3-4:30 p.m. Tuesdays through April 3. www.jewishculturalsociety.org. 6:30–9 p.m. the basic text of Chassidism and discover the templebethemeth.org. 7–8:30 p.m. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Hebrew 104: TBE. 6:15–7:15 p.m. Women’s Self Defense Workshop: JCC. Self Tuesday 5 Hebrew 101: TBE. 7:15–8:15 p.m. Saturday 2 defense is an approach to martial arts that Spirituality Book Club: TBE. Evening book club combines the best of internal and external session focusing on fourth book of the year, Twelve Living with Integrity–Navigating Everyday energy and strength conditioning. This class Steps to a Compassionate Life, by Karen Armstrong. Torah Study with Rabbi: TBE. 8:50 a.m. Ethical Dilemmas: Chabad. Are you obliged will help students who want to learn how to For information, contact Cantor Annie Rose at to keep all commitments? What are the Shabbat Limmud: BIC. 9 a.m. be fit for everyday life, while learning to deal [email protected]. 7:30–8:30 p.m. responsibilities of the sandwich generation? Parent Party: JCC. Enjoy an evening out with with difficult circumstances that may appear. Are the ungracious undeserving of our charity? Tea and Torah on Tuesday—for Women: dancing, schmoozing with friends, swing dance Classes are led by Mark Marshall, who holds How far should we go to give the benefit of Chabad. Reading the Torah may be easy, but lessons, games and a babysitter you can trust. a black belt rank in Tae Kwon Do and Grand the doubt? Join in on a discussion on personal understanding it is no simple matter. Study Hors d’oeuvres and wine are also part of the Master in Kyusho Jitsu, and Peter K. Gluck, ethics and the Jewish view on laws that test the the text in the original, with the classical Rashi celebration. Food is included and babysitting PhD, who holds black belt rank in Chung Do limits of our integrity. 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. commentary. 8 p.m. Every Tuesday. provided by the JCC Early Childhood Center Kwan Do, Kyusho Jujitsu and Kiai Jitsu. $20/

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20 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 Topics in Jewish Law: Ann Arbor Orthodox Cantor Annie Rose and John Goodell, St. with interactive discussions on Jewish Minyan. Led by Rabbi Rod Glogower at the Saturday 9 Clare’s Music Director. 3–4 p.m. historical, geographical and political Lewis/Bernstein home, 1304 Cambridge. “The Jewish Presence on Detroit’s Chene Street:” traditions. In this session, participants will This semester’s exploration will focus on the Torah Study with Rabbi: TBE. 8:50–9:30 a.m. Frankel Center. Presented by Marian Krzyzowski, begin to construct an interactive timeline that relationship between science and halakah, Shabbat Services: BIC. Henry Gershowitz Director of the Institute on Labor, Employment, will represent the individuals and groups that the commandments of the Torah, in light of Memorial Shabbat at 9:30 a.m. 6th Grade and the Economy. 202 South Thayer Street. 4 p.m. contributed to the siddur. Visit aarecon.org or rational inquiry and investigation, termed by Shabbat Morning Program at 9:30 a.m. Hebrew 104: TBE. 6:15–7:15 p.m. phone 445-1910 for more information. At the middle ages rabbis as the relationship between Kehillat Shabbat for 3rd through 5th Grade at JCC. 10 a.m.–noon. Hebrew 101: TBE. 7:15–8:15 p.m. revelation and reason. 8–9:15 p.m. 11 a.m. Mini Minyan for K–2nd Grade at 11:15 Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. a.m. Tot Shabbat at 11:15 a.m. Tea and Torah on Tuesday—for Women: Chabad. Reading the Torah may be easy, but Chapel Service: TBE. 10 a.m. Wednesday 6 understanding it is no simple matter. Study Sunday 17 Havdalah Pajama Party: JCC ECC. For current the text in the original, with the classical Rashi members of the JCC’s Early Childhood Center, Lunch and Laugh: BIC. Noon commentary. 8 p.m. Every Tuesday. Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into the Havdalah Pajama Party will include a pizza “Mapping Out Sacred Space: Rembrandt and the Topics in Jewish Law: Ann Arbor Orthodox the basic text of Chassidism and discover the dinner, a Havdalah service, pillowcase making, Second Temple”: Frankel Center. Presented by Minyan. Led by Rabbi Rod Glogower at the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. storytelling and an evening snack. For more Shelley Perlove of the University of Michigan. Lewis/Bernstein home, 1304 Cambridge. information or to register, contact Peretz 202 South Thayer Street. 4 p.m. This semester’s exploration will focus on the Hirshbein at [email protected] or relationship between science and halakah, Monday 18 Hebrew 103: TBE. 6:30–7:30p.m. phone 971-0990. $5 per person. 6 p.m. the commandments of the Torah, in light of Melave Malka Series: Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan. rational inquiry and investigation, termed by English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Thursday 7 Winter evening presentations, after Shabbat ends, middle ages rabbis as the relationship between Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– followed by socializing over food like kosher revelation and reason. 8–9:15 p.m. Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria soup, muffins and drinks. Tonight’s topic is Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Farquhar, $4 per session, 10 a.m. Current “Jewish Influences on My Musical Composition,” For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 or Events with Heather Dombey. Bring news presented by Professor Paul Schoenfeld, of the Wednesday 13 email [email protected]. Ongoing. items of interest for group discussion. 11 a.m. University of Michigan School of Music. 8 p.m. Trop Class: TBE. Cantor Rose leads class members Dairy Lunch Buffet, $3. Noon. Special events Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Lunch and Laugh: BIC. Noon. through the trop (cantillation) for the weekly and presentations at 1 p.m. Jewish Food Book Club: TBE. Rabbi Lisa Delson Torah portion, discussing the implications of Spirituality Book Club: TBE. Lunchtime book Sunday 10 and Robin Little lead a discussion on Kosher the trop on the text. For more information, club session focusing on fourth book of the Nation by Sue Fishkoff. 6–7 p.m. email Cantor Rose at cantorannie@ year, Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life, by Hebrew 103: TBE. 6:30–7:30 p.m. templebethemeth.org. Noon–1 p.m. Pulpit Switch: TBE. St. Clare’s Church switch Karen Armstrong. For information, contact Women’s Torah Study with Cantor Rose: TBE. with Temple Beth Emeth at TBE. 9–10 a.m. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Twice monthly Cantor Annie Rose at cantorannie@gmail. evening of learning. Refreshments served. For information, contact Cantor Annie Rose Community Connections: BIC. An com. Noon–1 p.m. For information, contact Roger Stutesman at at [email protected]. 7–8 p.m. Intergenerational Day of Learning and Action. “Writing to the Sultan: Jews Petitioning the State [email protected]. 7:30 p.m. Women’s League. 9:30 a.m. in Nineteenth Century Morocco:” Frankel Center. Presented by Frankel Fellow Jessica Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Tuesday 19 Marglin. 202 South Thayer Street. Noon. the basic text of Chassidism and discover the Thursday 14 beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Living with Integrity–Navigating Everyday Presentation: JCC Seniors. Birthday celebration Ethical Dilemmas: Chabad. Are you obliged for all with February birthdays. Bring family SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria to keep all commitments? What are the and friends for lunch and birthday cake at Farquhar, $4 per session, 10 a.m. Current Monday 11 responsibilities of the sandwich generation? 12:30 p.m. Ilan Ofir, University of Michigan Events with Heather Dombey. Bring news Are the ungracious undeserving of our charity? Israel Fellow at Hallal, will present “The Israeli items of interest for group discussion. 11 a.m. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. How far should we go to give the benefit of Elections and Experiences Growing Up in Dairy Lunch Buffet, $3. Noon. Special events Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– and presentations at 1 p.m. the doubt? Join in on a discussion on personal Israel,” at 1 p.m. Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at Presentation: JCC Seniors. A registered nurse from Care ethics and the Jewish view on laws that test the Ask Big Questions Series: EMU Hillel. Hillel at Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. limits of our integrity. 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Eastern Michigan University invites students Response will provide free blood pressure checks at For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 Yiddish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group). and community members to participate in 12:30 p.m. Followed by “Meet the Director!” Enjoy or email [email protected]. Ongoing. All ages and levels welcome including UM and the inaugural session of a new initiative that a magic performance and sing-a-long with new Trop Class: TBE. Cantor Rose leads class members non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s has been very successful on college campuses Executive Director Jeff Baden at 1 p.m. through the trop (cantillation) for the weekly Torah Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. across the county. The series aims to cultivate Traditions and Change: How Our Movement’s portion, discussing the implications of the trop on For information, call 936-2367. dialogue across ethnic, cultural, and political Rabbis Interpret Jewish Law: BIC. 8 p.m. the text. For more information, email Cantor Rose at SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria lines around questions relevant to all of us. [email protected]. Noon–1 p.m. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. This month’s question is “For Whom Are Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Farquhar, $4 per session.11 a.m.; Dairy Lunch Basic Judaism: TBE. For information or to We Responsible?” Kosher refreshments will Jewish legal system by following the intriguing Buffet, $3, Noon. Games and activities including register, contact Rabbi Lisa Delson at ldelson@ be provided. For more information, email discussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a Mahjong, sewing and quilting. 1 p.m. templebethemeth.org. 7–8:30 p.m. [email protected]. EMU Student Center composite of practical law, logical argumentation Weekly Musical Meditations: TBE. Led by Ballroom at 7:30 p.m. “There’s No Such thing as a Small Mitzvah:” and moral teachings. Study of the original Cantor Annie Rose and John Goodell, St. BIC. Presented by Danny Siegel. 8 p.m. Traditions and Change: How Our Movement’s Talmud tractate. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Clare’s Music Director. 6:15–7:15 p.m. Rabbis Interpret Jewish Law: BIC. 8 p.m. Hebrew 104: TBE. 6:15–7:15 p.m. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Tuesday 12 Friday 15 Hebrew 101: TBE. 7:15–8:15 p.m. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Topics in Jewish Law: Ann Arbor Orthodox Jewish legal system by following the intriguing Living with Integrity–Navigating Everyday Rabbi Levy’s Lunch and Learn: TBE. Informal Minyan. Led by Rabbi Rod Glogower at the discussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a Ethical Dilemmas: Chabad. Are you obliged Discussion. Bring lunch. Noon–1 p.m. Lewis/Bernstein home, 1304 Cambridge. composite of practical law, logical argumentation to keep all commitments? What are the This semester’s exploration will focus on the Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot and moral teachings. Study of the original responsibilities of the sandwich generation? relationship between science and halakah, Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot Talmud tractate. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Are the ungracious undeserving of our charity? the commandments of the Torah, in light of and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6 p.m. Shira and How far should we go to give the benefit of rational inquiry and investigation, termed by Sukkat Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 the doubt? Join in on a discussion on personal middle ages rabbis as the relationship between p.m. Popsicle Oneg follows. Shabbat Service Friday 8 ethics and the Jewish view on laws that test the revelation and reason. 8–9:15 p.m. with Kol Halev at 7:30 p.m. limits of our integrity. 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tea and Torah on Tuesday—for Women: Rabbi Levy’s Lunch and Learn: TBE. Informal Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. Yiddish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Chabad. Reading the Torah may be easy, but Discussion. Feel free to bring lunch. Noon–1 All ages and levels welcome including UM and understanding it is no simple matter. Study p.m. non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s Saturday 16 the text in the original, with the classical Rashi Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. commentary. 8 p.m. Every Tuesday. Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot For information, call 936-2367. and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6 p.m. Shalom Torah Study with Rabbi: TBE. 8:50–9:30 a.m. SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Pulpit switch with St. Shabbat Limmud: BIC. 9 .m. Farquhar, $4 per session.11 a.m.; Dairy Lunch Wednesday 20 Clare’s Church at 7:30 p.m. Chapel Service: TBE. 10 a.m. Buffet, $3, Noon. Games and activities including Lunch and Learn: BIC. Noon. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. Mahjong, sewing and quilting. 1 p.m. Learner’s Service: AARC. Sixth of ten monthly sessions led by rabbinic intern Aura Ahuvia Hebrew 103: TBE. 6:30–7:30p.m. Weekly Musical Meditations: TBE. Led by

Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 21 Best of I Calendar the fest 2012 Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Twice monthly Purim Celebration: JCS. Games, crafts and Please join us for these encore screenings featuring the award evening of learning. Refreshments served. prizes, plus Hamentaschen, pizza and winners from our 2012 Cinetopia International film festival. For information, contact Roger Stutesman at drinks for sale. Costumes are encouraged. [email protected]. 7:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m.–noon. frIday, feBruary 1 at 4:30 Pm Cirque du Beth Israel: BIC. A Purim celebration Hipsters (2008) Thursday 21 featuring Cirque Amongus. Noon. A lavish, candy-colored musical set in Cold War Russia circa Purim Program: Chabad. Full course meal and 1955, Hipsters tells the story of a communist party youth SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria program for adults and children with the whose life is changed when he encounters Moscow’s vibrant Farquhar, $4 per session, 10 a.m. Current reading of the Megillah. At the JCC. 5:30 p.m. underground and the non-conformist kids who inhabit it. Events with Heather Dombey. Bring news IndieWIRE says “Imagine Baz Luhrmann on .” items of interest for group discussion. 11 a.m. Monday 25 130 minutes. Not rated. Russian with subtitles. Dairy Lunch Buffet, $3. Noon. Special events and presentations at 1 p.m. saturday, feBruary 2 at 4:30 Pm English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. “Shifting Geographies of Antisemitism: sunday, feBruary 3 at 6:00 Pm Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– Thomas of Monmouth’s Life and Miracles Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at i Am Not A Hipster (2012) of St. William of Norwich:” Frankel Center. Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. Grieving his mother’s death, Brook has become a clichéd Presented by Frankel Fellow Kathryn Lavezzo. For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 tortured artist, but his isolation is lifted when his sisters and 202 South Thayer Street. Noon. or email [email protected]. Ongoing. estranged father come to spread his mother’s ashes. This Presentation: JCC Seniors. Timothy Webb, who emotionally-rich portrait of a man in pain celebrates the Trop Class: TBE. Cantor Rose leads class members is husband of SPICE Program coordinator healing power of family love. 90 minutes. Not rated. through the trop (cantillation) for the weekly Jessica Webb, will discuss his archaeological Torah portion, discussing the implications of work in Pompeii in his presentation, “Pompeii sunday, feBruary 3 at 3:30 Pm the trop on the text. For more information, Through the Ages.” 1 p.m. email Cantor Rose at cantorannie@ missed CoNNeCtioNs (2012) Traditions and Change: How Our Movement’s templebethemeth.org. Noon–1 p.m. A comedic romance with a unique and hilarious take on Internet Rabbis Interpret Jewish Law: BIC. 8 p.m. dating. When Neal’s girlfriend moves out, his friends try to lift his Beit Café: TBE. For more information or to spirits by using Craigslist to find him some potential dates, with Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. register, contct Rabbi Lisa Delson at ldelson@ surprising and heartfelt results. Made on a shoestring budget of Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the templebethemeth.org. 7–8:30 p.m. $25K and funded partially by a Kickstarter campaign, this is the Jewish legal system by following the intriguing type of film you go to film festivals to see. 81 minutes. Not rated. discussions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite of practical law, logical argumentation Tuesday 26 advanCe tICkets at tICketweB.Com. Charge By Phone: 866-468-3401. and moral teachings. Study of the original Living with Integrity–Navigating Everyday Talmud tractate. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Ann Arbor’s downtown center Ethical Dilemmas: Chabad. Are you obliged for fine film & performing Arts to keep all commitments? What are the 603 e. liberty • 734-668-time • michtheater.org Friday 22 responsibilities of the sandwich generation? Are the ungracious undeserving of our Rabbi Levy’s Lunch and Learn: TBE. Informal charity? How far should we go to give the Discussion. Bring lunch. Noon–1 p.m. benefit of the doubt? Join in on a discussion The 1942 Pulitzer Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot on personal ethics and the Jewish view on laws Prize-winning comedy Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot that test the limits of our integrity. 9:30 a.m. about humanity’s and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6 p.m. Shira and 7:30 p.m. enduring resilience and Sukkat Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at Yiddish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group). in the face of 6:30 p.m. Popsicle Oneg follows. Birthday and All ages and levels welcome including UM and Anniversary Shabbat Service at 7:30 p.m. non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s numerous cataclysms. Fourth Friday Shabbat Service: AARC. Musical Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. Thornton Wilder's Kabbalat Shabbat services held at the JCC and For information, call 936-2367. open to all. Led by rabbinic intern Aura Ahuvia. SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Services followed by vegetarian potluck dinner. Maria Farquhar, $4 per session.11 a.m.; Dairy The Skin Of Our Teeth Pizza nosh for children before services from Lunch Buffet, $3, Noon. Games and activities 6 p.m. Childcare provided during services including Mahjong, sewing and quilting. 1 p.m. from 6:15–7:30 p.m. Reservations for children Weekly Musical Meditations: TBE. Cantor Annie preferred, especially for pizza and childcare. Rose and John Goodell, St. Clare’s Music Contact Jennifer Cohen at www.aarecon.org/ Director. 3–4 p.m. contact-us or phone 445-1910. 6–10 p.m. “Off the Beaten Track: America in Hebrew Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. Literature at the Turn of the 20th Century:” Frankel Center. Presented by Matan Hermoni, Saturday 23 Hebrew Publishing Company author. 202 South Thayer Street. 4 p.m. Torah Study with Rabbi: TBE. 8:50 a.m. Hebrew 104: TBE. 6:15–7:15 p.m. Hebrew 101: TBE. 7:15–8:15 p.m. Directed by Jonathan Berry Chapel Service: TBE. 10 a.m. Tot Shabbat: BIC. 11:15 a.m. Tea and Torah on Tuesday—for Women: Dept. of Theatre & Drama Chabad. Reading the Torah may be easy, but Kol Halev Dinner and Movie: TBE. 5–8 p.m. understanding it is no simple matter. Study February 21 at 7:30 PM Grand Gala Purim Celebration: Chabad. Join in on the text in the original, with the classical Rashi the fun with a Megillah reading, gragars, Purim commentary. 8 p.m. Every Tuesday. February 22 & 23 at 8 PM Shpil, dancing, singing, food and drinks, plus Topics in Jewish Law: Ann Arbor Orthodox February 24 at 2 PM Hamantashen, door prizes and raffles. 7:15 p.m. Minyan. Led by Rabbi Rod Glogower at the Lydia Mendelssohn Theatre A Charlie Brown Purim: BIC. Havdallah/Maariv Lewis/Bernstein home, 1304 Cambridge. at 7:15 p.m. Megillah Reading and Program at This semester’s exploration will focus on the Reserved Seating $26 & $20 7:30 p.m. relationship between science and halakah, Students $10 with ID Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. the commandments of the Torah, in light of League Ticket Office rational inquiry and investigation, termed by 734-764-2538 Sunday 24 middle ages rabbis as the relationship between tickets.music.umich.edu revelation and reason. 8–9:15 p.m. Purim Services: Chabad. Services with Megillah reading. 9 a.m. Purim Shaharit and Megillah Reading: BIC. 9 a.m.

22 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 I Vitals

from 10 a.m.–noon. Discussion-based format Mazal Tov Wednesday 27 with changing topics, focusing on historical, geographical, and political traditions of different Ethan and Noah Stancroff, on their b’nai mitzvah, February 2. Lunch and Learn: BIC. Noon. parts of traditional service each month. Regular Harry and Leila Bagenstos on their b’nai mitzvah, February 9. “Reconstructing an Imaginary Yiddish Past morning service generally held on the second Gavi Forman on her bat mitzvah, February 16. Through Tel Avivian Eyes:” Frankel Center. or third Saturday each month at the JCC from Steve Leber and Dina Shtull on the birth of their granddaughter, Nitzan Adira Helfand, Presented by Matan Hermoni, Hebrew 10 a.m.–noon. Traditionally-based, with music daughter of Ilanit and Alex Helfand. Publishing Company author. 202 South plus a lengthy Torah discussion. For info, email Haran Rashes on his marriage to Nikki Fitlow. Thayer Street. 4 p.m. [email protected] or call 913-9705 or visit www. Deborah Dash Moore for receiving the National Jewish Book Award for her work Gender Hebrew 103: TBE. 6:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. aarecon.org. & Jewish History (Indiana University Press, 2011). Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Twice monthly Shabbat Services: Chabad. Friday night services evening of learning. Refreshments served. at Shabbat candle lighting time. Saturday For information, contact Roger Stutesman at morning services at 9:45 a.m. Afternoon Condolences [email protected]. 7:30 p.m. services 45 minutes before sundown. Shabbat Services: Pardes Hannah. Generally Katherine Glassner-Shwayder on the death of her father, William Glassner, November 10. Cathy Bowerman on the death of her mother, Dorothy S. Rogers, November 17 Thursday 28 meets the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each . month. Call 663-4039 for more information. Harvey Falit on the death of his father, Jack Falit, November 22. 10 a.m. Led by Rabbi Elliot Ginsburg. Laura Wallace on the death of her father, John Wallace, November 23. SPICE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Maria Steve Schiff on the death of his father, Samuel Schiff, November 28. Shabbat Services: TBE. Torah Study with Rabbi Farquhar, $4 per session, 10 a.m. Current Bobbie Levine on the death of her husband, Myron Levine, November 29. Levy at 8:50 a.m. Morning Minyan with Rabbi Events with Heather Dombey. Bring news Ruth Wade on the death of her mother, Eve Berman, December 1. Delson and lay leaders at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary items of interest for group discussion. 11 a.m. Rick Swartz on the death of his mother, Clarine Swartz, December 2. Service at 10 a.m. most weeks. Call the office Dairy Lunch Buffet, $3. Noon. Special events Rochel Urist on the death of her father, Rabbi Abraham Feldbin, December 2. at 665-4744 or consult website at www. and presentations at 1 p.m. The family of Shirley Norton on her death, December 5. templebethemeth.org for service details. Presentation: JCC Seniors. Featuring Paul Ajit K. Saini on the death of his wife and Ravi Saini on the death of her mother, Gayle Saginaw, co-founder of local landmark Home Hospitality for Shabbat and Holiday Sweetwine Saini, December 9. restaurant Zingerman’s, who will present, “In Meals: AAOM. Call 662-5805 in advance. Brad Beaver on the death of his father, Harvey Beaver, December 14. the Beginning All We Wanted was a Really Home Hospitality and Meals: Chabad. Every Harvey Somers on the death of his mother, Doris Somers, December 15. Good Corned Beef Sandwich.” 1 p.m. Shabbat and Holiday. Call 995-3276 in Lana Neimeth on the death of her mother, Pauline Brotman, December 28. Traditions and Change: How Our Movement’s advance. The family of Lia Kushner on her death, December 29. Rabbis Interpret Jewish Law: BIC. 8 p.m. Barbara Mintz on the death of her mother, Mildred Greenley, December 31. Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Phone numbers and addresses of Barbara Mintz and Phyllis Greenley and the death of their mother-in-law, Mildred Greenley, December 31. Chabad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge organizations frequently listed in Cindy Frey on the death of her mother, Hilda Diogenes, January 1. of the Jewish legal system by following the the calendar: intriguing discussions in the Talmud. The David Ginsburg on the death of his mother, Ruth Ginsburg, January 1. Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan (AAOM) Marcy Waldinger on the death of her m Talmud is a composite of practical law, logical other, Ada Bohm, January 2. 1429 Hill Street 994-5822 Dan Levin on the death of his father, Morris Levin. argumentation and moral teachings. Study Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation of the original Talmud tractate. 8 p.m. Every (AARC) Thursday. P.O. Box 7451, Ann Arbor 913-9705 Weekly Friday night Shabbat services Beth Israel Congregation (BIC) Shabbat Service: AAOM. Services held at UM 2000 Washtenaw Ave. 665-9897 Advertisers Hillel. Call 994-9258 in advance to confirm Chabad House I time. 715 Hill Street 995-3276 Shabbat Service: BIC. 6 p.m. Afternoon Delight...... 15 Jewish Family Services...... 20 EMU Hillel Joe Cornell Entertainment...... 11 Shabbat Service: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 p.m., 965 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti 482-0456 Amadeus Cafe/Patisserie...... 2 followed by tot dinner. Sukkat Shalom service Jewish Community Center (JCC) Ann Arbor State Bank...... 3 Lewis Jewelers...... 5 at 6:30 p.m. for “tot grads,” preceded by dinner. 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 971-0990 Mast Shoes...... 12 Shira at 6:30 p.m. Oneg for Tot and Sukkat The Ark...... 17 Shalom families at 7 p.m. Traditional Service at Jewish Cultural Society (JCS) Bank of Ann Arbor...... 16 Mercy’s Restaurant...... 16 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 975-9872 7:30 p.m. Once a month Middle School Service Camp Gan Israel...... 24 Michal Porath, Realtor...... 10 at 7:30 p.m. For information, call 665-4744. Jewish Family Services (JFS) Camp Tavor...... 11 Michigan Theater...... 22 Shabbat Service: Ann Arbor Reconstructionist 2245 South State Street 769-0209 Congregation. 6:15 p.m. at the JCC the fourth Jewish Federation Cantor Samuel Greenbaum; mohel...... 18 Modern Mechanical...... 16 Friday each month. Musical Shabbat service 2939 Birch Hollow Drive 677-0100 Center for Plastic and MOSA Audiology...... 13 followed by vegetarian potluck. Pizza nosh for Pardes Hannah Pam Sjo, Realtor...... 15 the kids at 6:00 p.m. Childcare provided during Reconstructive Surgery...... 10 2010 Washtenaw Ave. 761-5324 the service. All are welcome to attend. For Chelsea Flower Shop...... 5 Penchansky Whisler Architects...... 17 Temple Beth Emeth (TBE) information, call 975-6527, email mamacohen@ Dennis Platte Graphic Design...... 18 People’s Food Co-op...... 13 comcast.net, or visit www.aarecon.org. 2309 Packard Road 665-4744 Encore Online Resale...... 17 ShutterBooth...... 2 Shabbat Service: Chabad. Begins at candle- UM Hillel lighting time. Home hospitality available for 1429 Hill Street 769-0500 Frankel Center...... 10 Susan Ayer Photography...... 15 Shabbat meals and Jewish holidays. Call 995- Ganger Dermatology...... 3 University Musical Society...... 8 3276 in advance. Gold Bond Cleaners...... 5 University Productions...... 22 Weekly Shabbat services Carol Hoffer, CLU,CASL...... 2 Village Apothecary...... 2 Shabbat Services: AAOM. Morning service, 9:30 Shabbat Candlelighting Jewish Cultural Society...... 10 Zingerman’s...... 11 a.m. Evening service, 35 minutes before sunset. Call 662-5805 for information. Mincha/Ma’ariv February 1 5:27 pm with Seudah Shlisheet and Dvar Torah every week. Torah topics and a bite to eat. Discussions led by Rabbi Rod Glogower and other local February 8 5:36 pm Please patronize our advertisers and thank scholars. Home hospitality available for Shabbat meals. UM Hillel. February 15 5:45 pm them for supporting the Shabbat Services: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Morning childcare from 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. February 22 5:54 pm Shabbat Services: AA Reconstructionist Congregation. Learners’ Service held first or second Saturday each month at the JCC Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013 23 v"c Camp Gan Israel 2013

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24 Washtenaw Jewish News A February 2013