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 Year of Preparing Year in Permit No. 85 Torah for the Review Begins at High 5771 TBE Holidays

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September 2011 Elul 5771/Tishrei 5772 Volume XXXVI: Number 1 FREE

What YAD can do for you U-M Library presents images of partisan activity during WWII Emily Farber, special to the WJN Karen Jordan, special to the WJN Jewish Federations all over the country have a uring World War II, approximately Young Adult Division (YAD). Each group has 30,000 Jews, many of them teen- unique qualities, but collectively the mission re- agers, fought against the Nazis as D mains the same. YAD engages the young adult partisans, armed resistance fighters. These Jewish community with social, educational, young people stood up to Nazi tyranny and cultural, and philanthropic programming. oppression and saved the lives of thousands Whether one is single or married, child-free or of Jews. They were responsible for blowing a parent, working full-time or in grad school, up armored convoys and thwarting the Nazi YAD truly has something for everyone. The war machine in countless ways. The history y Pr ess Federation, which is non-denominational, of- of the partisans is not as well-known as that or fers meaningful opportunities to get involved. of other aspects of the war, but a compel-

o nd S t In the greater Ann Arbor community, a ling new exhibit coming to Ann Arbor this group of young adult Jewish leaders are work- fall may help to make this topic more widely ing to revitalize YAD. They’ll kick off the year understood. Faye Schulman, the only known with Shabbat in the Park, on September 9, at Jewish partisan photographer, is determined

oir, S ec ’ s M em oir, Burns Park. Shabbat in the Park is a kosher to make more people aware of the signifi- cook-out and an evening full of music and fun. cance of the partisans. t i san

a r Participants are encouraged to bring softballs, “I want people to know that there was mitts, Frisbees and other games for an enjoy- resistance,” Schulman says. “Jews did not go able evening. Other activities in the fall include like sheep to the slaughter. I was a photogra- apple-picking and an outing to a cider mill, pher. I have pictures. I have proof.” A P ce : JPEF / volunteering at Food Gatherer’s, networking

Schulman’s rare collection of images Sour opportunities, and monthly happy hours called captures the camaraderie, horror and loss, Faye Schulman with old friends in a forest near Lenin, winter, 1944 Thirsty Third Thursdays. The group actively bravery and triumph of the rag-tag, tough seeks ongoing input for new ideas. partisans—some Jewish, some not—who Partisan Faye Schulman” in the University of Nazis when they invaded her small town of YAD receives staff support from Avram fought the Germans and their collaborators. Michigan Hatcher Graduate Library Gallery Lenin on the Russian-Polish border (in what Kluger. He began working for the Jewish Fed- In the exhibit, each photo is paired with a from September 6 through November 28. is now Belarus) in 1941. They forced the eration of Greater Ann Arbor in July 2010 as lengthy explanation of the image. The text is The exhibit is co-sponsored by the Frankel town’s Jews into a ghetto, and on August 14, director of the annual campaign and financial in Schulman’s own words, recorded during Center for Judaic Studies at the U-M. 1942, they killed 1,850 Jews from the Lenin resource development. Kluger devotes part of an interview conducted in her Toronto home Born in Poland in 1924, Faye Schulman ghetto, including Faye’s parents, sisters and his time to YAD to help foster and develop its with Mitch Braff, director of the Jewish Par- received her first camera from her brother, a younger brother. They spared only 26 people various initiatives. n tisan Educational Foundation (JPEF). professional photographer, when she was 13 that day, among them Faye, because of her The University of Michigan Library will years old. He taught her how to take pictures, photographic abilities. The Germans or- There are several ways to connect with YAD for the present the traveling exhibit, “Pictures of Re- process negatives, and develop prints. Those latest news. Check out the YAD link on the Federa- sistance: The Wartime Photographs of Jewish photography skills made her valuable to the continued on page 30 tion website or log on to the YAD Facebook page. Apples and Honey at JCC September 25 Halye Aisner, special to the WJN pples and Honey, an annual family Early Childhood Center will arrivals to the Ann Arbor event that celebrate the fall Jewish also hold a holiday bake sale at community. A holidays, will take place at the Jewish the event. Admission is $10 per Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor on This program brings together family or $3 per person Sunday, September 25, from noon–3 p.m. Fes- many local Jewish organizations to provide for JCC members. Non- tivities will include a special welcome to Ann information about their purpose and to members are $12 per Arbor newcomers, Jewish organization dis- educate participants about the upcoming family or $4 per person. plays, vendors and a Camp Raanana reunion. holidays: Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Advance registration Children’s activities will include clowns, face Year; Yom Kippur, the Day of Atone- and payment are re- painting, inflatable jumpers, hands-on Judaic ment; and Sukkot, the fall harvest fes- quested. For more in- activities and more. Israeli food, kosher baked tival. A Newcomers table, featuring formation, contact the goods, and lunch will be available for purchase, the Shalom Ann Arbor program, will JCC at 971-0990. n along with gifts and Judaica items. The JCC’s welcome new JCC members and new IHigh Holidays

2935 Birch Hollow Drive Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Services Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 voice: 734/971-1800 ROSH HASHANAH 9/28 9/29 Tashlich 9/30 fax: 734/971-1801 e-mail: [email protected] Beth Israel Congregation 8 a.m. 5:15 p.m. 8 a.m. www.washtenawjewishnews.org Family Celebration 4 p.m. 11:30 a.m. Children’s Programs 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Mincha 5:15 p.m. 7 p.m. Editor and Publisher Ma’ariv 8 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. Susan Kravitz Ayer Chabad House 7:30 p.m 9:45 a.m. 4 p.m. 9:45 a.m. Calendar Editor Sounding of the shofar, festive meal 11:30 a.m. Claire Sandler Mincha/Ma’ariv 7 p.m. Advertising Manager EMU Hillel 8 p.m. 9 a.m., 11 a.m. 1:30 p.m. Gordon White Hillel 4:30 p.m. Design and Layout Conservative 7 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m Dennis Platte Orthodox (AAOM) 7 p.m. 9 a.m . 9 a.m. Reform 7 p.m. 9:45 a.m. Staff Writer Sandor Slomovits “Just Jewish”discussion 4 p.m. Jewish Cultural Society 7 p.m. noon Contributing Writers Aura Ahuvia, Halye Aisner, Jennifer Arapoff, Pardes Hannah 9:30 a.m. 9:45 a.m. Sharlan Douglas, Robin Cembalest, Sarah Chan- Reconstructionist Havurah 7:30 p.m. 9 a.m. 4:00 p.m. 10 a.m. dler, Emily Eisbruch, Emily Farber, Sue Fishkoff, Eileen Freed, Samantha Friedman, Rabbi Karla Children’s services 11 a.m. Goldman, Aharon Goldstein, Uriel Heilman, Ben Temple Beth Emeth 8 p.m. 1:30 p.m. Henig, Shoshana Jackson, Jill Jacobs, Karen Jordan, Avram Kluger, Lucinda Kurtz, Joan Levitt, Roberto Family service 9 a.m. Loiederman, Soo Ji Min, Merrill Poliner, Michael Traditional & AARTY 11 a.m. Ripstein, Helena Robinovitz, Ben Sales, Tilly Birthday of the World 4:30 p.m. Shames, Hannah Sherman, Dina Shtull, Maxine Solvay, Elliot Sorkin, Gretta Spier, Jessica Steinberg, Eileen Thacker, Yvonne Wardle, Yasaf Warshai, YOM KIPPUR 10/7 10/8 BREAK-THE-FAST Alex Weisler, Brett Wilner, Naomi Zeveloff Beth Israel Congregation 6:50 p.m. 8 a.m. 7:55 p.m. The Washtenaw Jewish News is published month- ly, with the exception of January and July. It is th th th th Youth (6 —8 , 9 —12 ) 6:50 p.m. 10:30 a.m. registered as a Non-profit Michigan Corpora- Children’s Programs 11 a.m. tion. Opinions expressed in this publication do Study Session 4:15 p.m. not necessarily reflect those of its editors or staff Mincha, 5:10 p.m.

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2 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 ICommunity

Dan Ariely to be featured at Main Event in October Avram Kluger, special to the WJN

he Federation’s Main Event program the Center for Advanced Hindsight. His Main promises to be a totally new experience Event talk is titled “[Dis]Honesty: How people T this year. In a break from past tradi- cheat a little bit and feel good about it.” tion, the Main Event will be held on a Sunday Ariely is the author of two bestselling afternoon, October 30, rather than a week- books, Predictably irrational and The upside night. The event is being held at Washtenaw of irrationality. His unique approach to un- Community College’s Morris Lawrence Hall derstanding social behavior and entertain- from 4–7 p.m. The program will begin with ing, and thought-provoking presentations an hour-long wine and hors d’oeuvres recep- have made him enormously popular on the tion before moving into an auditorium for speakers circuit. the formal program. A light dessert buffet Event co-chairs, Hillary Murt, Bruce Fried- will be offered at the conclusion of the formal man, Rachel Bendit, and Mark Bernstein, are program while book signing is taking place. excited about the new event format designed Behavioral economist and New York Times to address the community’s desire for more bestselling author Dan Ariely will be the fea- time for socializing and the talk by Ariely that tured speaker. Ariely is currently a professor should attract a broader spectrum of commu- of psychology and behavioral economics at nity members than past speakers. n Duke University and a founding member of Dan Aiely Portraits of Creative Aging Exhibit to be shown at the JCC’s Amster Gallery Halye Aisner, special to the WJN The Jewish Community Center of Greater Zald’s personal search for positive role mod- wide acclaim. Another illustrative story is of a Ann Arbor will feature Joan Kadri Zald’s els of aging and is primarily aimed at people 74-year-old retired bank executive, who after photography exhibit, Portraits of Creative who are contemplating retirement, are due to receiving treatment for a life threatening can- Aging, in the JCC’s Amster Gallery from retire or have recently retired. The author’s in- cer, decided he wanted to start “giving back.” September 9–November 15. The opening tention is to present role models who inspire He joined the Experience Corps and now de- reception and photographer’s presentation and provide a sense of possibilities and op- votes three days a week tutoring students at will be Sunday, September 11, 4–6 p.m. at tions. Although aimed at an older audience, an inner-city elementary school. It has been a the JCC. The entire community is welcome the narratives can be a source of inspiration deeply gratifying experience for him. to attend the opening. to people of all ages. Photographs along with brief summaries The exhibit is drawn from Zald’s book: Examples from the book, which will be of the activities of 25 people selected from Portraits of Creative Aging: Living Longer and sold in the gallery, include the inspiring story the book will be on display. People from dif- Better (Corby Publishing, 2010). The center- of a retired draftsman, who at age 76, achieved ferent racial and ethnic groups as well as dif- piece of the book is a collection of stories, with a life-long dream and received a Bachelors in ferent regions of the country are represented. accompanying black and white photographic Fine Arts degree in photography. When in- Several are from the Ann Arbor area and may portraits, of men and women in their retire- terviewed at age 89, he was still learning and be familiar to viewers. ment years who are engaged in creative and experimenting with new photographic tech- For more information, contact the JCC productive endeavors. The book grew out of niques. His numerous exhibits have met with at 971-0990. n

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Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 3 ICommunity

An exhibit on Rembrandt, Jews and Jesus By robin Cembalest, Tabletmag.com NEW YORK (Tablet) — Like so many other Rabbi Menasseh ben Israel — whose book acterized masterworks like “The Hundred You can have an image in your head without aspects of his life and work, Rembrandt’s Rembrandt might have illustrated, whose Guilder Print” and “The Supper at Emmaus.” having an actual model.” connection to the Jews has been sentimental- portrait he may or may not have painted, The latter work includes another direct allu- In any case, Rembrandt’s Jewish Jesus, if ized, overestimated, misappropriated, criti- and who possibly sion to Christ’s Jew- that’s who he was, was in a sense ahead of cized, dissected — and debunked. In recent helped with the Ara- ish heritage, write his time — the Semitic Jesus didn’t catch on years, the image of the artist as a philo-Sem- maic inscription in art historians Larry right away, or much at all. Centuries later, ite who painted and socialized with his Jew- the artist’s famous Silver and Shelley however, he reappeared in the work of some ish neighbors has become a topic of intense “Belshazzar’s Feast.” Perlove in that cata- of the first prominent Jewish artists to step scholarly debate. Yet the notion that there’s Some of these log: The bread he onto the international stage, figures such as something crypto-Jewish about Rembrandt efforts highlight breaks with the dis- Maurycy Gottlieb and Max Liebermann. continues to enthrall. Rembrandt’s special ciples is a braided In the upcoming book Jewish Art: A Modern But maybe the Jews in Rembrandt’s art relationship with the challah. History, Silver and co-author Samantha Bas- are hidden in plain sight, clearly visible in de- Jews in newly toler- Yet most of the kind chronicle how these artists, along with pictions of his favorite Jewish protagonist of ant, newly multicul- catalog’s contribu- other Jews assimilating into the mainstream all. That’s the thesis of “Rembrandt and the tural Amsterdam, a tors are more cir- art world in the late 19th century, emulated Face of Jesus,” a provocative exhibit that de- haven for refugees cumspect than the Rembrandt they perceived as a Jewish buted last year at the Louvre and opened at from the Inquisition DeWitt in asserting role model. Ephraim Moses Lilien drew from the Philadelphia Museum of Art in August. and Eastern Euro- that this serene, in- his Old Testament scenes; Hermann Struck The exhibit will be in Detroit in November. pean pogroms alike. ward-looking Jesus painted heads of old Jews who resemble In the catalog, curator Lloyd DeWitt sug- Others — most fa- is modeled on an Rembrandt’s prophets; and the scruffy fig- gests that the model for a series of seven mously “The ‘Jew- actual Jew. Silver, ures in the paintings of Jozef Israels seem heads of Christ — studies that DeWitt be- ish’ Rembrandt,” a for one, believes the lifted, like Rembrandt’s, from the Jewish lieves Rembrandt used for several major re- contrarian show at jury is still out on quarter of Amsterdam. ligious paintings — was a Jew. While DeWitt Amsterdam’s Jew- whether Rembrandt These descendants of the “Jewish” Rem- is not the first to identify a Jewish Jesus in ish Historical Mu- needed to have a brandt hardly help us determine just what Rembrandt’s work or in this particular series seum — contend Jewish model in about him was crypto-Jewish, of course. But of paintings, the show is the first to unite all that there’s no evidence of a special relation- front of him to make a Jewish-looking Jesus. they do confirm that modern Jewish art is seven since 1656 and the most ambitious ef- ship whatsoever between Rembrandt and “Rembrandt’s faces look so lifelike you’re crypto-Rembrandt. n fort to view them in the larger context of the the Jews, and that the longtime image of the immediately impelled to say that’s a portrait,” (robin Cembalest is executive editor of ArT- artist’s religious work. In addition to being menschlich Old Master is just a romantic he said in a phone interview. “If someone news. She blogs at letmypeopleshow.com. This the largest-ever gathering of paintings of myth. asked you to paint a picture of any fantasy was reprinted from Tabletmag.com, a new Rembrandt’s Jesus, the show is also the larg- Today, most art historians do agree on figure, you could probably draw Snow White. read on Jewish life.) est gathering of Rembrandt’s Jews. some things: that Rembrandt was not a se- That is, if you agree with DeWitt’s the- cret Jew, not especially philo-Semitic, and sis about the ethnicity of the figure in these not particularly a mensch. Instead, we know studies, a theory for which he has no docu- it was his reputation for having those quali- JCC and the DIA to present three week class on mentary proof. There is no known record of ties that led generations of curators to mis- a Jewish man posing for such pictures. Not label certain types of paintings (especially of Rembrandt, and his depiction of Jews and Jesus one of the studies is signed or dated, and soulful, bearded men) as his portraits of Jews Halye Aisner, special to the WJN only one has been authenticated. (especially rabbis). The Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor and the Detroit Institute of Arts will DeWitt, however, finds support for his By now, most of Rembrandt’s “Jewish” bring a three-part educational series to the JCC beginning Sunday, September 25, at 4 p.m. premise from an intriguing source: a 1656 oeuvre has been de-Judaized. Even “The Jew- The first class, “Rembrandt’s Amsterdam and the Jews: Freedom of Conscience, audit of Rembrandt’s house. In the list were ish Bride” is no longer assumed to be Jewish, Biblicism and Commerce,” will examine the radically new conditions of toleration en- three heads of Christ, possibly from the nor necessarily a bride. By current scholarly joyed by the Jews in Amsterdam, and the different developments that brought them same series as the ones in the show. One of consensus, there is exactly one identifiable about. The second class will be held at the JCC on Sunday, October 23 from 4–5:30 p.m. the heads was evidently described as “from Jew in Rembrandt’s art, the Sephardic doc- This class, “Rembrandt and the Humanization of the Jewish Image,” will explore Rem- life,” a phrase that has led scholars to infer tor Ephraim Bueno. Two other Rembrandt brandt’s image of Jews and Jesus, and the great break they represented with a tradition Rembrandt worked with a live model. At that paintings, both young men in skullcaps, are of Christian iconography that had dehumanized and indeed demonized the Jew, while particular place and time in the artist’s ca- also thought to be Jews. One hangs in the idealizing the image of Jesus. reer, DeWitt reasons, as his religious works Kimbell Museum in Fort Worth, Texas, and Both classes will be taught by University of Texas at Austin professor Miriam Bo- became more spiritual, less spectacular, the other in the Staatliche in Berlin. dian. Bodian has written a book on the 17th-century Jews of Amsterdam, Hebrews Rembrandt is likely to have searched out a The distinctive features of these men — of the Portuguese Nation, as well as a book dealing with the careers of victims of the sitter with same physiognomy as his savior broad face, heavy eyelids, round lips — sup- Inquisition who were celebrated by Amsterdam Jews as great martyrs, Dying in the Law — namely, a Jew — in his quest to make the port his case, DeWitt argues, because they of Moses. Currently, Bodian is a participant at the Frankel Institute for Advanced Judaic most naturalistic, humble Jesus to date in the resemble images of Jesus that Rembrandt Studies at the University of Michigan. history of art. began making in the late 1640s, among them The final class, Sunday, November 27 from 2:30–5 p.m. will be a tour of the DIA’s Clarifying the Dutch master’s links to the the studies at the heart of this show. In the exhibition, “Rembrandt and the Face of Jesus.” Carpool will leave the JCC at 2:30 p.m. Jews, or lack thereof, has become an obses- show’s catalog, various scholars note that and will travel to the DIA, located at 5200 Woodward Avenue in Detroit. This exhibition sion for scholars over the past decade. Books these works came at a point in Rembrandt’s brings together many of the Dutch master’s finest paintings, etchings and drawings that and exhibitions have parsed Rembrandt’s career when he was moving from the highly portray Jesus. Rembrandt was the first Western artist to portray Jesus as Jewish. genealogy, his religiosity, his commissions, dramatic, divinely inspired images of Jesus The cost for the three-part series is $70 for JCC members and $85 for non-members. his motives for moving to a Jewish neigh- that were the norm in Western painting to a Space is limited and tickets will not be sold separately for the DIA portion of the series. borhood, his Old Testament scenes, his New more introspective figure that inspired med- For more information or to register for the class, contact the JCC at 971-0990. n Testament scenes and his relationship with itation and reverence, a quality that char-

4 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 ICommunity

Jewish Family Services announces expanded counseling services Jennifer Arapoff, special to the WJN n response to a growing community types of support and guidance, always in a need and building on the expertise of compassionate, professional manner. We’re I its staff, Jewish Fam- very proud to announce this ily Services has expanded its expansion, and to be ap- counseling services for resi- proved to accept third-party dents of Washtenaw County. insurance.” The agency has offered some Caregiver Consultations– counseling as part of its circle individualized, hour-long, one- of life approach for years, and on-one sessions with a geriatric the newly expanded services social worker–are also expand- will enable JFS to help more ing as part of the JFS counseling people than ever before. service offerings. Designed to JFS was recently approved as Medicare and help clients who are caring for an aging loved Blue Cross Blue Shield/Blue Care Network pro- one, these consultations provide strategies to viders, and operates on a fee-for-service basis, talk to older adults about difficult subjects, in- including an “ability to pay” scale. cluding driving, home health care challenges “Our team of licensed clinical social and living arrangements. They also provide workers, limited license clinical social work- counseling to caregivers related to handling ers and advanced standing clinical MSW stress and navigating changing relationships. interns is able to address a multitude of be- “This is something we hope individuals, havioral and mental health issues,” explains couples and families will truly embrace,” Lisa Keefauver, JFS clinical director. “We’re says Keefauver. “We’ve built a reputation able to work with individuals and families for the highest quality services, and pro- facing life transitions, relationship and ca- vide them in a confidential, professional, reer challenges and those in need of many safe environment.” n Harvey Ovshinsky returns to the JCC Sharlan Douglas, special to the WJN ast year, when the state was offering a generous 40-42 percent tax incen- L tive for filmmakers who wanted to make their movies in Michigan, business was booming for area writer/producer/educator Harvey Ovshinsky. And how are Ovshinsky’s once-popular screenwriting workshops do- ing, now that the governor has radically re- duced the dollars available for filmmakers to shoot in the state? “Business has never been better,” says the Ann Arbor-based Ovshinsky, who, in September, will begin a new round of work- shops, “How to Complete Your 1st Movie Script in 6 Months.” “Of course participants in our workshops would love to see their scripts produced but, also and mainly, they’re in it for what I call for ‘the 60 percnet incentive.” And what kind of incentive is that? “The best kind,” says Ovshinsky, “because it’s in- trinsic, it’s personal. The 60 percent incen- tive is each of our own need to tell our truths and get our stories off our chests. Our sto- Harvey Ovshinsky ries, not theirs.” Ovshinsky’s Movie-of-the-Week script, Harvey Ovshinsky’s support group for PJ and the Dragon was represented by Cre- aspiring screenwriters meets at the Jewish ative Artists Agency (CAA) and optioned Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor by Longbow Productions (A League of Their from 7–10 p.m. on the last Monday of each Own). The New York International Indepen- month starting in September and ending in dent Film and Video Festival honored his lat- March. There is no class in December. est screenplay, The Keyman. Ovshinsky’s group was created for aspir- Participants in Ovshinsky support group ing screenwriters who feel the need for an receive a sample script, a complete bibliog- extra amount of direction, motivation, and raphy of screenwriting books, publications personal attention. and contests plus information about help- The Detroit News describes Harvey as ful computer formatting software. Also in- “one of the country’s finest storytellers.” cluded is the latest version of Ovshinsky’s His Ann Arbor-based video production and popular handout, “The Ten Most important story consulting company, HKO Media has First Rules of Storytelling.” The cost for par- been awarded broadcasting’s highest hon- ticipating in each of the six sessions is $325. ors including a national Emmy, a Peabody, a Enrollment is limited. To register call 971- duPont-Columbia University Award and the 0990. For more information, call Ovshinsky American Film Institute’s Robert M. Bennett directly at 996-8011. n Award for Excellence. Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 5 IJewish Family Services ICommunity

JFS announces new board additions Local authors sought for Jennifer Arapoff, special to the WJN Jewish Book Festival Halye Aisner, special to the WJN ewish Family Services welcomes three in Ukraine. She says first director of JFS Washtenaw County when new members to its board of directors she looks forward to it was founded in 1993. She chaired the JFS The Jewish Community Center of Greater J this month—Herb Aronow, Nan Gill, joining the impres- direct services committee and has supervised Ann Arbor is searching for local authors to and Donna Winkelman. sive group of com- the field placements of University of Michigan participate in the 24th annual Jewish Book Herb Aronow, an interventional cardiolo- mitted individuals social work students for many years. Festival. This event will take place from gist at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, also serves on the board and Diane Lehman served on the direct services Tuesday, November 1 through Sunday, No- on the board of the Jewish Federation of to supporting and committee and as secretary of the board. She vember 13 at the JCC. Writer’s can promote Greater Ann Arbor and represents Ann Ar- furthering the broad is leaving after a single term to devote herself their new books at the Local Author Break- bor’s Jewish community nationally on the scope of the agency. more intensely to her new position as regula- fast on Sunday, November 6. Books must be Jewish Federations Donna Winkelman Winkelman is a tory specialist in the U-M Medical School’s written by a Jewish author or have Jewish of North America Washtenaw Literacy ESL tutor and serves on the Office of Regulatory Affairs. content and must have been published with- National Young advisory board of the new Jewish Studies pro- “We are so fortunate to have had these in the last year. To submit a book or for fur- Leadership Cabinet. gram at Eastern Michigan University. dedicated board members serving JFS,” says ther information, contact Karen Freedland Aronow says he was JFS also has three highly respected outgo- Phyllis Herzig, president of the board. “Their at 971-0990 or [email protected]. impressed by the ing board members this fall. incredible contributions—from fundraising Submissions must be received by Thurssday, vast array of pro- Karen Epstein, a two-term board mem- to direct services oversight and strategic plan- September 15. grams and services ber who has been active with the Friends of ning—are genuinely appreciated, and we are offered to the com- the Family Committee, was among the first forever indebted to them.” Herb Aronow munity through JFS 92 recipients of the highly competitive W.K. The exiting board members will continue Afternoon Delights Concert and was drawn to Kellogg-Woodrow Wilson Michigan Teaching to be actively involved with JFS and the broad- Halye Aisner, special to the WJN the organization in part because of its great Fellowship, and will be pursuing a master’s de- er Jewish community. financial need. Aronow earned his BA, MD gree in teaching mathematics. This board transition also marks the of- The Jewish Community Center of Greater and MPH at the University of Michigan. Susan Sefansky, who started her social ficial end of devoted member Herb Amster’s Ann Arbor and the Ann Arbor Symphony Nan Gill works for New Urban Learning, work career at the Detroit JFS, served as the term; Amster passed away last October. n Orchestra will present an Afternoon De- a charter school management company based lights concert on Wednesday, September 21 in Detroit, developing early childhood cen- at 1 p.m. at the JCC. Maestro Arie Lipsky and ters. Gil served as an Ann Arbor public schools JFS named official agency for Herb Amster legacy principal at multiple elementary schools and Carol Amster and her family have selected mentor to many venture capitalists and many spent several years as an independent consul- Jewish Family Services as the official com- entrepreneurs and innovators. tant providing organizational development munity agency to honor Herb helped to found the Jewish Com- services to corporate, educational, and non- past JFS board member munity Center of Greater Ann Arbor and the profit clients. She believes that serving on the Herb Amster’s legacy of Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, and JFS board is a great compassion, creativity, was a board member of the Jewish Commu- opportunity to work and the importance of nity Foundation of Greater Ann Arbor. While with an extremely sustainability. Accord- serving as chair of the University Musical dedicated group of ing to Herb’s wife Carol, Society board in the mid-1990s, he helped professionals and the Amsters selected JFS to put that organization on sound financial volunteers, who Herb Amster as the one community footing. Herb also played key volunteer roles have established a agency to honor Herb’s legacy because, “He with the Industrial Technology Institute, St. strong track record would light up with pleasure whenever he Joseph Mercy Hospital and Arbor Hospice, of providing vital talked about JFS’s accomplishments.” at Beth Israel Congregation—as well as many Nan Gill services to many Herb served on the JFS board for almost other nonprofits. different groups of two terms before his death in October of “We are working with Carol and the people in the community. Gil has also served 2010. His guidance of the finance committee Amster family on some exciting plans,” terms on the board for Temple Beth Emeth, and board had a huge impact on the agency, says Anya Abramzon, executive director of HelpSource and the Global Society for Orga- and he often characterized JFS as a vital com- JFS. “We are so fortunate to have the honor Maestro Arie Lipskey nizational Learning. munity resource. she has bestowed on our agency—to cre- Donna Winkelman recently retired from a Herb founded Irwin Magnetics in Ann ate a lasting, meaningful legacy in Herb’s A2SO musicians and friends will play cham- 20-year career in human resources management, Arbor in 1983 and also played a key role in name—and we have every intention of ber works. Tickets are $8 and available at the where she worked for a variety of manufactur- the success of Sycor. He served on the boards honoring this community leader and be- door or through the Ann Arbor Symphony ing and high-tech companies. From 1996–1998, of directors of several major companies in the loved friend in ways that truly reflect his Orchestra. For more information, contact Winkelman and her husband took a late career area including The Bartech Group, NanoBio, values and his dreams for the agency and Merrill Poliner at 971-0990 or merrillpo- sabbatical and served in the U.S. Peace Corps and ReCellular. He was an advocate and a the richly deserving people we serve.” [email protected].

Holocaust Memorial Center Zekelman Family Campus

27th Anniversary Dinner Honoring Lauren & Sam Bienenstock

Sunday, September 18, 2011 Sharon Rennert, award-winning filmmaker and granddaughter of the famed Tuvia Bielski, leader of the Bielski Partisans in Poland, will be the evening’s keynote speaker.

For information on the event or to reserve tickets, please contact Selma Silverman at 248.553.2400, ext. 12 or [email protected].

6 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 ICommunity ISeniors/Women

SPICE* of Life Hadassah: 100 and hip *Social, Physical, Intellectual, Cultural, and Educational Programs for Adults Maxine Solvay and Eileen Thacker, special to the WJN As Hadassah turns 100, the Ann Arbor socioeconomic status, politics or ethnicity. It Tuesdays Special events and presentations Chapter is taking the time to reflect on all will be a promise to serve Israel for the next 11 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Far- Hadassah does in the United States and in 100 years. thursday, September 1 Israel. Hadassah is the largest women’s and Help the Ann Arbor Chapter continue this quhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10. 12:30 p.m.: Birthday celebration for all the largest Jewish membership organiza- rich history by preserving Hadassah’s convic- Noon: Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person. with September birthdays. Bring your family tion in the United States. It takes seriously tion to tikkun olam (repairing the world) and and friends for lunch and birthday cake. 1 p.m.: Games and Activities. Join in for the responsibility to uphold the Jewish com- tzedakah (charity, righteousness). 1 p.m.: Temple Beth Emeth Rabbi Robert Levy, a variety of games and activities including mitment to social action and social justice. • Become a life member of Hadassah at the will speak about his recent sabbatical trip. mahjong, quilting for the patients of Mott Hadassah works on behalf of many domestic special centennial price of $100 (good Hospital, art projects, and other card games. thursday, September 8 issues of concern to women that include but until December 31, 2011) by contacting 1–3 p.m.: Writing Your Wisdom, facili- 12:30 p.m.: A registered nurse from Care are not limited to: health care, reproductive Charlene Yudowin at 434-7309 or cyu- tated by Janice Thorup, starting September Response will take and record blood pres- choice, civil rights, energy, and the environ- [email protected]. 13 through October 4. Free. Registration sures and address any questions. Free. ment. Hadassah advocates on behalf of do- • Honor Hadassah’s 100th birthday by donat- required. 1 p.m.: The new education and community mestic issues by educating its membership ing to the Centennial Donor Campaign 1 p.m.: Wii sports including bowling, ten- outreach director of the Ann Arbor Sym- and promoting participation in the govern- being led by Maxine Solvay. nis, golf and baseball. No sports or computer phony will play selections from and discuss mental process. • Purchase Hadassah cards, certificates, and selections from the Ann Arbor Symphony experience necessary. Hadassah’s founder, Henrietta Szold, saw trees honoring and remembering special Orchestra 2011–2012 season. first-hand the health needs of Israel and took life events. Thursdays thursday, September 15 her passion back to America to educate and • Support “Rummage Resale.” mobilize women to raise funds to meet those • Attend “Game Night” this fall. 10 a.m.: Energy Exercise with Maria Far- 1 p.m.: Tune up your voice and join in a needs. For nearly a century, Hadassah has • Light a menorah at Hadassah’s Chanukah quhar. $4 per session, or 3 sessions for $10. sing-a-long with Joanne. set the pace for health care in Israel and the party in December. Wednesday, September 21 11 a.m.: Current Events with Heather Middle East. The Chapter Steering Committee has 12:50 p.m.: Afternoon Delights concert The Sarah Wetsman Davidson Tower at started making plans for a major fundrais- Dombey. A discussion of the week’s news. co-sponsored by the Ann Arbor Symphony Bring items of interest for group discussion. Ein Kerem will be a gift from Hadassah to the ing event in spring 2012 that will celebrate Orchestra. Featuring Brian Bowman, princi- people of Israel when it is dedicated in Oc- Hadassah’s centennial in style—Bivouac pal clarinetist with the Ann Arbor Sympho- Noon: Dairy Lunch Buffet. $3 per person. tober 2012, marking Hadassah’s centennial. style that is. The event will most definitely ny. Door open at 12:50 p.m. Refreshments The Tower represents the very best of what put the “fun” back into fundraising. Watch served at 1 p.m. Concert begins at 1:30 p.m. 1 p.m.: Thursday Special Events and Pre- Hadassah Medical Organization brings— for more information in future Washtenaw Tickets are $8 at the door or from the Ann sentations (see below for details). and will continue to bring—to the practice Jewish News articles and contact Marci Fein- Arbor Symphony. of clinical medicine, teaching, and research. berg (662-1984, [email protected]) with 2:15 p.m.: Sidney Warschausky Literary thursday, September 22 It will provide a therapeutic environment for all questions and suggestions regarding the Group facilitated by group members. Call Noon: Special “Apples and Honey” lunch patients and their families no matter ones Ann Arbor Chapter. n Merrill Poliner at 971-0990, for more infor- 1 p.m.: Apples and Honey are the tradi- mation and the title of the current book. tional symbols of Rosh Hashanah. Come to SPICE to learn a little more about honey, ORT Book Group focuses on Jewish authors and content Fridays bees, and beekeeping from local beekeeper Gretta Spier, special to the WJN 1:30 p.m.: Yiddish Reading Group at the Jane Levy. Samples will be available. JCC. Call Ray Juni for additional informa- The ORT Book Group has completed one Daughter by Peter Manseau, a work of fiction, tion at 761-2765. thursday, September 29 decade and will be launching another in Sep- will be discussed on Wednesday, September JCC is closed for Rosh Hashanah tember. From its inception, it has doubled in 21. The following month, talk will focus on a size, and long-standing members will have non-fiction work, Emancipation: How Liber- read approximately 100 books. Its original ating Europe’s Jews from the Ghetto Led to rev- JCC Quilters help keep Mott patients warm plan still holds: the book group is a meeting olution and renaissance by Michael Goldfarb. Merrill Poliner, special to the WJN place for women who enjoy reading and talk- The group meets on the fourth Wednesday of ing about books written by Jewish authors or the month, unless that date conflicts with a Twice a month, the sewing machines and irons come out of the cupboard and are put to use mak- having Jewish content. holiday as it does in September. ing quilts for the patients at the University of Michigan Mott Children’s Hospital. Members sign up to lead discussions. As A new member, Anne Lawrence, says For over 3 years, Jo Lawver and Sue Yager have come to the JCC and made flannel quilts to facilitators, they look up information about ”As a newcomer to both Ann Arbor and to comfort the children receiving treatment at the hospital. Last month, they donated many quilts in the authors and moderate discussions. In the ORT’s Book Group, I was welcomed warmly the JCC’s name to Mott. past they have also have supplemented the and made to feel so comfortable at the gath- The JCC quilters are looking for additional volunteers to help them make more quilts in 2012. conversation with videos and chats with the erings. I’m new to book groups in general, All that is needed is creativity and desire to help others—materials, equipment and instruction are authors via phone or Skype. The group has and have found this experience to be a posi- provided. Come to the JCC on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Call Merrill at 971-0990 for the dates. had a history of sharing sponsorship of one of tive learning experience. I continue to be the authors at the Jewish Book Fair each year. impressed by the book discussions and the Members must be supporters of ORT Amer- insightful comments and questions shared LocavORT, ORT’s fall brunch, set for September 18 ica. In addition, they pay $25 to belong to the by the members. I also appreciate the “no Joan Levitt, special to the WJN book group. This fee covers the cost of meeting pressure” atmosphere and understanding if I The Ann Arbor chapter of ORT America will hold its fall brunch, “LocavORT,” on Sunday, Sep- at the JCC. Depending on the number of book can’t manage to attend every session.” tember 18, from 10:30 a.m.–noon, at the home of Linda Greene. The cost is $10 per person. group members, there is usually a sum left over People interested in the full 2011-12 book Members and prospective members of ORT America are invited to a brunch featuring as a donation to the ORT chapter. Women may list, the meeting dates, and more information healthy, locally grown foods. Dena Jaffee, an expert on healthy cooking, is planning the menu. join at any point during the year. may email Gretta Spier at [email protected]. Jaffee recently returned to Michigan from Arizona, where she worked with Andrew Weil as a The reading list is varied and chosen at the personal chef and as the Culinary Coordinator for the Center of Integrative Medicine’s Nutri- end of the previous year. Songs for the Butcher’s tion and Health Conferences. She is now working at WholeHeart Group, a new company owned by Patti Aaron. Jaffee will speak about her passion for healthier cooking and eating for all from a sustainable food system. Women’s League opening event–a Day at the Spa Shaindle Braunstein-Cohen, the director of the David B. Hermelin ORT Resource Center in Yvonne Wardle, special to the WJN West Bloomfield, will provide an update about ORT’s award winning local program. At Herme- On Sunday, September 25, from 10 a.m.-noon, the Beth Israel Women’s League Sisterhood lin ORT, under-employed and unemployed Michigan residents build computer, Internet, and will host “A Day At The Spa.” Presenters will talk about how one can relax and be pampered. job-search skills through a variety of classes, most of which are made available free-of-charge There will be the opportunity to try out facials, manicures, reflexology, henna and more. The thanks to fundraising efforts by ORT America and generous private donations. morning will also include an explanation of what Women’s League Sisterhood has to offer, The Fall Brunch provides an opportunity to learn about ORT America’s important work. including this year’s schedule of programming and events. The brunch also provides an opportunit. For more information and to RSVP, contact Nancy RSVP by September 12 to Yvonne Wardle@945-8256 or [email protected]. Karp at [email protected].

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 7 ICampus

Jewish Communal Leadership Program welcomes new class Karla Goldman, special to the WJN fter a rich first year of academic and people while being responsive to the chal- to building upon her ever-deepening com- Scholar, studying Jewish texts at Neve College. communal involvement, the Jewish lenges of a complicated world. mitment to the possibilities of the Jewish She comes to JCLP hoping to build upon her Communal Leadership Program at A native of Farmington Hills, Shayna Beth community. commitment to the Jewish values of recipro- A A native of Ann Arbor and a graduate of cal community responsibility and care. the University of Michigan is preparing to Goodman is a recent graduate of the U-M welcome a second cohort of students. The where she ma- the U-M, Nurit Rachel Yerkey, from Ann Arbor, received new group brings varied experiences and jored in psychol- Weizman nonethe- her bachelors degree from Albion College perspectives to their social work and Judaic ogy. Goodman was less has pursued a where she majored studies. A strong Michigan and Ann Arbor an inaugural stu- long and eventual in religious studies contingent will be joined by others from dent in the U-M journey on her way and Spanish and across the country, from Los Angeles to New School of Social to the Jewish Com- was president of York City. The second year of program will Work’s Commu- munal Leadership the campus Hil- introduce field placements with local agen- nity Action and Program. Weizman lel. She also spent cies, continued public programming, grow- Social Change grew up in the Ha- a semester abroad ing engagement with issues related to Jewish minor, which she bonim Dror La- in Bilbao, Spain. communal involvement in the city of Detroit; helped to shape as bor Zionist youth For the last two movement, attend- years Yerkey has and ever-growing connections to the Jewish a member of the Nurit Weizman community’s needs, challenges, and possibili- Shayna Beth Goodman program’s Student ing and working as served, as part of a counselor at Camp Tavor in Three Rivers AmeriCorps, as ties. Here are some brief introductions to the Advisory Board. As a participant in the Metro Rachel Yerkey incoming students: Detroit Jewish Occupational Intern Program, for nine years. Time spent in Israel deepened the director of Goodman worked at Coville Assisted Living Weizman’s interest in both women’s empow- Interfaith Action at the Ginsberg Center at Apartments in Oak Park, organizing supple- erment and in Judaism, prompting her to the U-M. This work of facilitating campus mental activities for residents. She has also switch her major from architecture to wom- conversations and service across divides of volunteered at the Fleischman Residence, en’s studies and to become involved as student faith and ideology builds upon her under- Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit, and co-president and head of the women’s pro- graduate experience as an interfaith dialogue the Ann Arbor Jewish Community Center. gram for Jewish Awareness America on cam- coordinator. Through the Jewish Commu- Goodman hopes to build skills that will en- pus. After organizing a major symposium on nal Leadership Program, Yerkey seeks to ad- able her to address the needs of socially and sex and relationships on campus, she became vance her ability to enrich Jewish communal economically disadvantaged members of the a regular blogger on author Wendy Shalit’s engagement within broader social and reli- n Jewish community. blog Modestly Yours. After graduation, Weiz- gious contexts. Jess Alper Shayna Elizabeth Goodman attended Ra- man spent a year in Jerusalem as an Abraham Jess Alper is a wondering and passionate maz High School in New York City and grad- Jew. After growing up and attending college in uated from Sarah Michigan, she joined AmeriCorps in Southern Lawrence College “Amazing Israel”Birthright trip California and then moved to San Francisco, with a focus on Ben Henig, specieal to the WJN where she spent the past four years managing Jewish studies health care service programs for the Muscular and creative writ- illel at Eastern Michi- Dystrophy Association and teaching in a plu- ing, completing gan University helped ralistic Jewish education program for teenage a senior thesis on Hme register for a Taglit students. Alper also served as a leader for a “Masculinity and Birthright Israel trip in Febru- month-long educational tour of Israel and Modernity in Jew- ary, long before the summer was honored with the Elaine Bachrach Teach- ish Autobiogra- trips depart. After registering, I ing Excellence Award as well as the San Fran- phy.” Her studies had to wait patiently for months cisco Contemporary Jewish Museum’s LINK included a year at before I was finally able to trav- fellowship. As the global Jewish community Shayna Elizabeth Goodman Hebrew University el to Israel on the “Amazing strives to respond to the changing world, in Jerusalem. Goodman has worked or volun- Israel” trip. I had heard many Alper is excited to explore the 21st- century teered for a wide array of Jewish institutions things about it, but I didn’t re- challenges and opportunities. and publications including the Museum of ally know what to expect. I was Molly Dehrey grew up in the Los Ange- Jewish Heritage, Lilith Magazine, Habitus: a little unsure, but knowing les area attending Jewish day schools. She A Diaspora Journal, Hadassah, and YIVO. one other person from EMU, graduated from Goodman comes to Ann Arbor eager to fold Erin Greenblat, gave me some the University of her academic understanding of Jewish history confidence. There were 39 stu- Wisconsin, Madi- into active engagement with Jewish commu- dents in total, mostly from the Ben Henig and Erin Greenblat son, where she nity and to be a part of creating meaning- Baltimore area, with a few of us majored in He- ful dialogue and understanding within and from EMU. The group first met brew and human across diverse communities. at the JFK airport. While we all came from age” an opportunity to socialize with the locals development and Originally from East Lansing, Alice Mish- different places, we began to “click” and build and other kibbutz guests. Some days involved family studies with kin is a graduate of our group identity. By the end of the flight, a lot of hiking, showing us a side of Israel that a concentration in the U-M, where she we had met most of our fellow Birthright is not easily viewed by many tourists. Hiking psychology, and majored in Eng- adventurers and were excited to get to know steep rocky steps to a huge and fantastic wa- spent a semester at lish language and them better. terfall, rafting the Jordan River, or hiking up to Tel Aviv University. literature. During The trip really began upon arriving at Ben Masada to see the sunrise challenged us both Molly Dehrey Dehrey was a coun- a year off from Gurion Airport, where we met our tour guide, mentally and physically. This was balanced by selor at Camp Ramah in California for three college, Mishkin Yaakov Shabbat, who insisted that just call him less strenuous activities, such as wine tasting in summers and for the Ramah Israel Seminar. joined the staff of “Shabbat.” With a name like that, we knew this the Golan Heights, jumping in the natural pools Fluent in Hebrew, Molly spent a year in Israel the Save Darfur was going to be far from your average vacation. in the Sachne National Park, and floating in the volunteering at the Israel Center for the Treat- Coalition and was We then indulged in Israel’s favorite fast food, Dead Sea. ment of Psychotrauma in Jerusalem, which instrumental in falafel. Watching the store owner flip freshly The most moving part of the trip was the treats victims of trauma from all religious planning the 2006 fried falafel balls into warm and toasty pitas b’nai mitzvah ceremony for six participants, and ethnic backgrounds. She also worked for Alice Mishkin anti-genocide was an art form. From Tel Aviv we traveled to including my friend Erin, as well as the official the Jewish Agency’s B’yachad program, Masa’s rally in Washington, DC. After graduation, Kibbutz Machanayim where Shabbat shared welcoming of Shabbat at the Western Wall in Je- Building Future Leadership Conference, the Mishkin worked for two years as executive the plan for the next ten days. Each day had its rusalem on Friday evening. I experienced a side March of the Living’s Los Angeles Delegation, assistant for Ruth Messinger, president of own theme and related activities ranging from of Israel that I never knew of while watching and with the Los Angeles Bureau of Jewish the American Jewish World Service. Alice “Welcome to Israel” to “Mysticism and Jewish TV in my Israeli grandmother’s air-conditioned Education on a community service program spent the last year as a Dorot Fellow work- Spirituality.” apartment. This trip showed me an Israel of for teenagers. Dehrey comes to JCLP commit- ing in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem for two Israeli Each evening we had some free time after beauty and wonder. For me, this was a once in a ted to strengthening the vitality of the Jewish human rights organizations. Looks forward the day’s programs were complete. The small lifetime experience that has deepened my Jew- bar near the guesthouse gave those of us “of ish identity for the rest of my life. n 8 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 new year, new staff, new story at U-M Hillel Tilly Shames, special to the WJN t the recent 2011 Hillel Institute (an been hired as Assistant Director of Religious the Camp Ramah annual conference of student and Life and Education, and Davey Rosen, of Frank- and Young Judaea Aprofessional training, attended by lin, Michigan, is now Assistant Director of Stu- systems developing 1,000 staff, students and community part- dent Leadership and Programming. a sophisticated and ners), the University of Michigan Hillel staff Rabbi Winberg brings to the team a deep innovative approach team focused on exploring and developing its passion for bringing diverse Jews together, in- to informal Jewish own Hillel story. Inspired by Harvard Univer- terfaith work, community service, and Jewish education. Rosen is sity professor Marshall Ganz’s article “What is Orthodox feminism. With an impressive re- also an accomplished Public Narrative?” (2008), they worked on how sume that includes ordination from Yeshivat singer-songwriter and to be in tune with their individual narratives of Chovevei Torah Rabbinical School, a master’s will infuse U-M Hil- what brought them to Hillel and how to share degree from Yeshiva University and two years of lel with his musical the full story of their Hillel today. training at Hebrew Union College, Rabbi Win- and artistic talent and U-M Hillel’s story, now beginning its 86th berg has tremendous capacity to engage stu- creative energy that year, is shaped by the remarkable students who dents from all aspects of Jewish life and infuse will help engage even are responsible for the extraordinary depth U-M Hillel with Jewish content in a meaningful more students in Jew- and breadth of its programming, and a long and accessible way. ish life on campus. Hillel staff and students at the City Museum in St. Louis for Hillel tradition of outstanding staff who work with After leading one of the four spring 2011 “As assistant di- Institute in August 2011: (top row left to right) Jon Hornstein, Shira them. Last year, with the 2010–11 Berman Fel- U-M Hillel Taglit Birthright Israel trips, Rabbi rector at the U-M Sandler, David Rosenwein (bottom row left to right) Seth Winberg, lows, Allie Conn and Michael Spitulnik, U-M Winberg said, “I loved introducing students to Hillel, I have a tre- Davey Rosen, Tilly Shames, Allie Conn, Michael Spitulnik Hillel overcame the challenge of a smaller staff Israel and am excited to work in the country’s mendous opportunity to utilize my skills into 5772 and a new school year, U-M Hillel by exceeding, both in quantity and quality, flagship Hillel. My goal is to enrich Jewish life and passion for engaging and empowering leadership are awake, alert, and prepared to em- the programming level of the previous year. A for students and the entire campus community Jewish young adults. I’m looking forward to brace all of the opportunities and potential this new engagement strategy (jNET) was imple- through intellectual rigor and spiritual depth.” working and growing with our diverse stu- new year will bring to the U-M Hillel story. n mented, the Kaufman Intramural Sports Pro- This July, Rabbi Winberg moved to Ann Arbor dent population and joining a leadership gram was expanded, and new student groups with his wife, Shoshie Lockshin, and two chil- team committed to creating a vibrant and rabbi Winberg can be reached at winberg@ were formed, including Makom Intra-Jewish dren, Hadas and Ezra. inclusive Jewish community,” Rosen said. umich.edu and rosen can be reached at dav- Dialogue; Health and Wellness; and Jewish Per- Davey Rosen has returned to Michigan “It’s wonderful to be back in my home state [email protected]. spectives on Globalization. after 12 years of developing an extensive and of Michigan. I still have a recurring dream Tilly Shames, associate director of university With the arrival of two new assistant direc- impressive resume in Jewish communal work where Joe Dumars calls me up and tells me of Michigan Hillel, will be transitioning into tors this summer, and the executive director across America. He holds an master’s degree the Pistons need me. I’m ready Joe!” the executive director role winter 2012, as Mi- leadership transition, the U-M Hillel is enter- in informal and communal Jewish education, As we enter into the month of Elul, the shofar chael Brooks takes his sabbatical and returns ing into a new era of senior management. Rabbi a bachelor’s degree in Jewish history from the will be blown to offer a rousing wake-up call to as the Director of institutional Advancement. Seth Winberg of Vancouver, Canada, has has University of Judaism, and has worked in both everyone. Moving forward with new leadership Shames can be reached at [email protected].

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Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 9 ICongregations

Constructive Conversations Dialogue at tBE Sofer to repair tBE’s torah scrolls during by Helena robinovitz always thought of Israel as David and its one’s views can be expressed in a supportive ‘Year of torah’ celebration neighbors as Goliath: Israel, like David, and respectful atmosphere. Soo Ji Min, special to the WJN always would be the winner because Israel Last February this model was used by Karla I eginning in November of this year, aged letters that may be rendered pasul (un- was on the “right” side. Then one day our son, a Goldman, the U-M Drachler Professor of So- Temple Beth Emeth will be the site of fit), Rabbi Salazar first will scrape them from high school senior, said, “No. Israel isn’t always cial Work and director of the Jewish Commu- an unusual opportunity to see Torah the parchment and then re-write letters in a right. Some of Israel’s policies and actions to- nal Leadership Program, and Leo Sitruk, a U-M B scrolls undergoing the process of restoration consistent style of caligraphy. The eitzim wards the Palestinians are not those of a moral graduate trained in this dialogue method, who by a sofer, a Jewish scribe with the specialized (handles) for all four scrolls will be replaced. and democratic country.” First this statement co-facilitated the first ongoing dialogue group training to create and repair Torah scrolls, In addition to his restoration work, the sofer tefillin, mezuzot and other religious texts. will train a small group, to be called Clei During three extended visits between No- Kodesh, to carry out monthly inspections of vember 13, 2011 and March 27, 2012, Rabbi the scrolls and do routine cleaning. This is Yochanan Salazar will clean and repair four an effort to ensure that the Torah scrolls are of the Torah scrolls used at TBE. He will do properly maintained. this in a public area of the building to allow The youngest scroll used by TBE is a congregants and others in the community to 60-year-old Israeli Torah, written in Sep- experience first-hand the nature of his craft. hardic script. The oldest is 120 years old and Rabbi Salazar also will be providing a num- is a Holocaust scroll from Volyne, a town ber of hands-on educational experiences for south of Prague, and part of the Westminster congregants and the wider community. Trust. It is one of the 1,564 Nazi-confiscated Both the creation and the preservation scrolls rescued by the Trust. of Torah scrolls are governed by Jewish law During each of his visits there will be eve- and by centuries-old traditions. In essence, ning demonstrations and open times during a sofer is an expert in the selection, cleaning, the day when the community is invited to and stitching of the parchment, as well as come and watch as he works. Rabbi Salazar the formation of letters and arrangement of also will serve as scholar-in-residence. He Attendees at Temple Beth Emeth’s constructive dialogue session, October 2010 verses. Similarly, a sofer is trained to preserve will work with the religious school for mul- Torah scrolls through repair of parchment tiple Try It Yourself sessions with quills on shocked me, and then started me thinking. It of 11 members at TBE. The initial meetings, all and of chipped and faded letters. Rabbi Sala- parchment, and provide talks including The also concerned me that the younger generation biweekly, were spent getting acquainted by shar- zar received his rabbinic of American Jews might not feel the same ur- ing what individuals wanted to learn from the ordination in 2004, became gency to support the existence of Israel. dialogue. The following is what one individual an apprentice in the art of These paraphrased comments were ex- shared during one of the initial meetings: sofrut at Sofer on Site. After pressed by a member of a dialogue session “I want to be a member of this dialogue dedicated training Rabbi held last October at Temple Beth Emeth group so that I can learn to discuss the Israeli- Salazar was ordained as a (TBE). Over 60 people participated in the Palestinian conflict with my spouse. We have sofer at Yeshiva University. dialogue session at TBE. The attendees had very different views about what’s happening He now heads the Torah come because they felt a need to discuss the in Israel, but we cannot discuss them. We need Restoration Department Israeli-Palestinian Conflict with their fel- to be able to talk to each other about this de- at Sofer on Site. low Jews. This is an emotional topic that can structive conflict that affects the whole world, Earlier this year TBE provoke polarizing stances and hard feelings especially Jews.” contacted Sofer on Site among family and friends. Adrienne Dessel, Although everyone was from TBE, there and retained their services the associate director of the Univeristy of was a surprising diversity of views expressed for an extensive evalua- Michigan Program on Intergroup Relations, and experiences shared, like the one listed be- tion of four Torah scrolls explained at the beginning of the TBE session low, which sparked further discussions. that all are in constant use. that the Constructive Conversations method I am an Israeli citizen, here with my wife who Maintenance is periodi- Rabbi Yochanan Salazar repairing a Torah scroll promotes conversation and deters persua- is a student at the university. I grew up in a settle- cally required in the nor- sion. Those in attendance broke into smaller ment area in Israel. I was in the army. Israel, like mal course of their use over decades. The Mystical Meaning of Torah. On March 26, groups of 5–10 people and were led in this any country, wants to survive. If we are attacked, type of restoration needed varies with each Rabbi Salazar will lecture on composition dialogue method by trained facilitators from we will fight back, but we don’t purposely injure scroll and depends on the nature and extent of the page using examples such as Shirat the local Jewish community. innocent women and children. of the damage. Sofer on Site determined that Hayam. Check the listings in the Washtenaw This dialogue method was introduced While this dialogue group is on a summer areas for upkeep fall into these categories: Jewish News for the full details. in 2005 when Mitch Chanin of The Jewish hiatus, it will continue to meet in the fall. New worn stitching; cracks and small tears in the The presence of the sofer provides the core Dialogue Group of Philadelphia and Maggie Constructive Conversations groups will be parchment; prior cleaning with caustic sol- of a year of programming titled “Year of To- Hertzig of The Public Conversations Project forming and all members of the Jewish Com- vents; letters that are cracking, peeling and rah: A Celebration of the Tree of Life” at TBE. of Watertown, Massachusetts, wrote Construc- munity are welcome to join. If you are interested fading. The opening event will take place on Sun- tive Conversations About the israeli-Palestinian in learning more, some members of the on-go- The work Rabbi Salazar will undertake day, October 23, with a workshop and per- Conflict: A Guide for Convening and Facilitat- ing dialogue group are happy to talk with you. while in residence at TBE includes eye scan- formance by the storyteller Allison Downey. ing Dialogue in Jewish Communities in the Contact Carol Dworkin at 996-0247 or dwor- ning each book of each of the four scrolls. He There will be many activities throughout the u.S. This guidebook has been used by Jewish [email protected]; Stew Robinovitz at 475- will hand stitch parchments where required. year that will educate and celebrate including congregations of all persuasions to discuss this 7751 or [email protected]; Marian Cohen at Past methods of cleaning unfortunately have a Torah-thon, Beit Cafes, Shabbatonim and subject, an effort that is difficult yet vital to our 761-4578 or [email protected]; Raffi caused damages in some circumstances, so more. For more information, contact Gretta community. This guide lists the Communi- Paz at 7301-941 or [email protected]; or he will hand clean the scrolls with out any Spier at [email protected] or Pat McCune cation Agreements of Dialogue, and suggests Helena Robinovitz at 475-5571 or helena @ chemical agents. In order to remove dam- at [email protected]. n members follow them to ensure that every- robinovitz.com for more information. n

10 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 High Holidays with Pardes Hannah, the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah news Aura Ahuvia, special to the WJN Jewish Renewal community of Ann Arbor High Holiday services non-affiliated Jews, as well as their interested Lucinda Kurtz, special to the WJN The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah partners. The program will take place Satur- ardes Hannah, the Jewish Renewal “We might also reflect on the spiritual offers free High Holiday services to Jews day, October 1, at 7 p.m. community of Ann Arbor, invites all practices that help us find our compass, our in the local community, as well as to their Reconstructionist Beit Sefer Sunday Pcommunity members and spiritual beating heart. For some of us, it might be non-Jewish spouses, partners, and friends. seekers to join them for the High Holidays and Shabbat (25 hours of taking a break from Services are highly participatory and inter- school and parent workshop to participate in services led by their rabbi, Elliot business as usual), or Torah-study, chanting, active, giving ample opportunity to engage The Beit Sefer will open September 11, with Ginsburg. Each year the Pardes gardening, yoga, conscious actively and vitally with the process of tes- three classrooms for the student body and a Hannah community selects a eating, connecting across the huvah, or repentance/return. workshop on “Raising Jewish Children” for theme to guide us through the generations, or engaging in No tickets are required to attend services, parents, to run concurrently. Immediately prior Days of Awe. Community mem- loving acts of social repair. which are held at the Unitarian Universalist to the workshop, there will be a brief parent bers reflect on this theme, and at The Days of Awe give us church due to space requirements. Childcare orientation with bagels and coffee, covering various points during the services, blessed time to grapple with and a communal Break-the-Fast are offered, how current parents’ own experiences of Jew- share some way its key concepts these questions, to reflect on with advanced reservations, for a fee. The ish education in their childhoods informed the have resonated in their lives. our blessings and challenges, Break-the-Fast is held immediately follow- This technique of focusing on and the blessings of our chal- ing the end of the Ne’ilah service, which con- a specific theme helps members lenges, for the year that lies cludes the prayer services of Yom Kippur. All to unite their community even ahead. And just maybe, as we are welcome to this meal, whether members before Rosh Hashanah, when pray together, meditate, cry of the Havurah or not. (See page 2 for specific they gather on Saturday, Septem- out and sway, try to purify dates and times of services.) For more infor- ber 24, from 8:30–10:30 p.m., for our hearts, and listen to each mation, check the website, at www.aaRecon. Havdalah and Selichot, as they other’s stories, we may find com, or call 445-1910 (24-hour voice mail). prepare to enter the Days of Awe that we have been laying the with an evening of study and chant at the home foundation for a new Home for the spirit. What’s My Legacy? Spiritual shape of the school as it exists today. How Re- of Rabbi Elliot and Linda Jo Doctor (2924 Bay- “A place where we can live and do the preparation for the High Holidays constructionism fits within this vision will also lis Drive). This is reflective of the community work, this year, 5772.” The month of Elul, the Hebrew month pre- be addressed. oriented yet very personal experience that Jew- Everyone is invited to join the group for ceding Rosh Hashanah, provides time to Orientation and workshop begin at 9:30 ish Renewal embodies through its honoring First Day Rosh Hashanah services from 9:30 begin preparing ourselves spiritually for the a.m. at the JCC. Questions may be directed to of revered Hasidic practices, along with new a.m.–1:30 p.m. on September 29 at St. Aid- Days of Awe. This workshop, which is open the Beit Sefer’s head teacher, Brian Duchemin, forms of chanting, meditation, movement, and ans Church on 1679 Broadway in Ann Arbor. to all Jews, their non-Jewish partners, and (616) 283-9433, or to school director Aura Ahu- deep joy in contemplation. This will be a traditional Jewish Renewal ser- those who are interested, will focus on what via, (734) 975-9045, or [email protected]. Rabbi Elliot Ginsburg describes this year’s vice with prayer, niggunim (wordless melo- kind of name one hopes to make for oneself theme in the following way: dies), and teachings by community members Learner’s Services in the world, and what inner work one needs “This year’s theme is: Finding Home, followed by a potluck lunch. Tashlich will The year-long Learner’s Service, a popular to do, in order to make those contributions. Knowing Home, Leaving Home. On the follow. Second day Rosh Hashanah services, monthly Shabbat morning series, will begin Through personal reading of text, including one hand, it draws on the traditional sea- a meditation service, will be on September Saturday, September 10, at 10 a.m. at the Zelda’s poem, “Each of Us Has a Name,” par- sonal theme of teshuvah, of (re)turning to 30 from 9:45 am to 1 pm at St. Aidans fol- JCC. These services are geared for Jewish ticipants will engage in deep self-reflection, the Source, to a place of balance and right lowed by kiddush. adults who seek to engage on a more serious sharing and soul-searching. Bringing a diary (consecrated) action: vis a vis God, our in- On Friday, October 7, Kol Nidrei prepa- spiritual level with Jewish prayer. Through is recommended. The workshop takes place timates, our larger communities, the planet, rations will commence at 6:10 p.m. and active learning, sharing, singing and discus- Sunday, September 4, from 2–4 p.m. and ourselves. In the spirit of teshuvah, we services will begin at 6:40 p.m. at St. Aidans sion, the nature of the Shabbat morning ask: what does it mean to return Home, or Church. Yom Kippur services will begin at 9 Shabbat Shuvah with Havdallah: service, its shape and contents, history and to feel at Home? What acts of repair must we a.m. with contemplative yoga at 2:15 p.m., contributing characters will all be explored. undertake to fix Home, and the paths that meditation and chanting at 3:45 p.m., min- The heart’s encounter with Services are open to all, and no RSVP is nec- lead to it? Where does our Sacred Center lie cha at 4:15 p.m., yizkor at 5:30 p.m., neilah High Holidays essary. Topics include the history and meaning and where should we root ourselves; in what at 6:45 p.m. and shofar blowing at 7:47 p.m. A meditative, musical Shabbat Shuvah pro- of prayers like the Shema, the Amidah and the places, moments or sacred times, in what ac- Break-fast to follow. n gram is planned for the Saturday evening Torah services, as well as more general topics tions, commitments, and relationships, in between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. like the people, prophets, and historical events For more information about Pardes Hannah, what web of memories? What might it mean The evening’s songs will concentrate on the that helped shape the service. n the High Holiday schedule and other fall ser- to find a Home in God? In the earth and its themes of teshuvah, return, and the long- vices and holiday plans, call Dorrie rosenblatt For more information and location for all seasons? In our sacred calendar? in Torah ings of the heart. A story or two may also at 665-4186. For late-breaking developments, Ann Arbor reconstructionist Havurah activi- or Sacred Text? For Home may be a Place, a be told. Havdallah, the ritual signaling the consult the website: http://pardeshannah.org/ ties, check the website, at www.aarecon.com, Time, an orienting Relationship, or a book end of Shabbat, will conclude the program. Pardes_Hannah. or contact Aura Ahuvia, (734) 975-9045, or by which one lives. The program is open to both affiliated and [email protected].

316 S. Main w Ann Arbor w www.TheArk.org

Call for tickets: 734-763-8587 September 16 & 17, 8 p.m. THE SECOND CITY

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 11 ICongregations

September activities at Beth Israel Congregation Elliot Sorkin, special to the WJN Beth Israel Fair In and Sign-Up at Beth Israel on Wednesday, Sep- ample opportunity for discussion of the texts pre-school and early elementary aged children, Sunday, September 4, tember 7 from 6–7 p.m. and you will be helped to and the video presentations. all are welcome. This program is offered free 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. determine the class that is best. More information on the Engaging Is- of charge to anyone in the community, and no As the summer nears its end, Beth Israel The classes are taught by two veteran He- rael program can be found at http://www. tickets are required. Congregation invites the community to enjoy brew instructors, Malli Holoshitz and Pauli hartman.org.il/Center_Adv/Program_View. Weizman. Holoshitz is a native Israeli who has asp?Program_Id=30 K–5 family program on second day taught Hebrew for many years; she is noted The cost for the program is $75 for Beth Is- of Rosh Hashanah for her lively and animated teaching style. She rael members, $100 for non-members. All are Friday, September 30, 11:30 a.m. earned a Ph.D. in education from the University welcome and subsidies are available. Contact On the second day of Rosh Hashanah, a of Michigan, and serves as the head of the He- Rabbi Dobrusin at [email protected] Rosh Hashanah family program is offered brew department at the Frankel Jewish Acad- or 665 9897 for more information. Registration in a tent set up in the Beth Israel courtyard. emy of Metro Detroit. Holoshitz has taught at is due by October 1. (Children will be brought in from the High the School of Education at Eastern Michigan Holiday children’s programming.) Activi- University, as well as at the U-M, where she re- Open enrollment for Beth Israel ties include a play presented by the older ceived an “Excellence in Education” award. Religious School students, and the morning culminates in a Weizman has been teaching Hebrew at the First Day of Classes: September 11 celebration of the birthday of the world with U-M since 1987, and is the recipient of an “Ex- Registration continues for Beth Israel Re- a cupcake snack. This program is free of an end of summer celebration at the Beth Is- cellence in Education” award by the Department ligious School. Beth Israel offers educational charge to anyone in the community and no rael Fair. Each year the fair is one of Beth Israel’s of Near Eastern Studies. She is a native Israeli programs for children in kindergarten through tickets are required. most popular events, kicking off the 2011–2012 and has earned two master’s degrees — one in eighth grade, and paid leadership and Jewish programming year. Teaching English as a Second Language and the educational enrichment for 9th–12th graders. In High Holiday child care/services for The Beth Israel Fair offers games and activi- other in social work; she also has a bachelor’s the elementary grades, students learn the skills ages 3 and up. ties for all ages. Attractions returning this year degree in Hebrew linguistics. to enable them to live a traditional Jewish life- Childcare is offered for all children ages are the always popular bounce house, sno-cones, style in the contemporary world. Throughout 3–5 years old on the First and Second Day of and grilled hot dog lunch. Other activities in- Introduction to Judaism Course their studies, they are engaged in learning Jew- Rosh Hashanah and on Yom Kippur. There is clude face painting, Mahjongg, lawn relay races, A nine session “Introduction to Judaism” ish thought and history, and in examining the a fee for this service. cupcake walk, bocce ball, Wii games, and origa- course will be offered at Beth Israel Congre- conceptual basis of Jewish beliefs. In Hebrew Two hour creative child and youth pro- mi. All activities are free and a grilled hot dog or gation on Sundays from 9:30–10:45 a.m. The education, the students develop Hebrew reading grams are offered on the first and second veggie dog lunch is available for purchase. course will begin on Sunday, September 25. skills and siddur (prayer book) literacy. During days of Rosh Hashanah, and on Yom Kip- In case of rain, it will be held indoors. The course will be taught by Rabbi Rob- the middle school years, the continuing students pur. A separate Kol Nidre services is offered ert Dobrusin and Rabbi Kim Blumenthal and use the language skills they have learned and be- to 6th–8th graders, and to 9th–12th graders Lunch & Learn Series: The Customs of will cover many topics, including the holidays, gin a formal study of conversational Hebrew. on Erev Yom Kippur at the Garfunkel- prayer, history, and home rituals. This class, open Separate Hebrew immersion and advanced text Schteingart Activities Center. There is no fee the High Holidays to the entire community, is designed for those Wednesday, September 7, 14 and 21 study classes are offered to Hebrew Day School for these programs. who are curious about Judaism, are beginning Noon–1:15 p.m. graduates or other qualified students with simi- the process of conversion to Judaism and those Rabbi Robert Dobrusin will lead a series of lar backgrounds. (The immersion classes are of- Free tickets for High Holidays for who wish to re-familiarize themselves with the discussions concerning some of the well-known fered to both members and non-members). newcomers, graduate students foundation of Jewish belief and practice. and lesser-known High Holiday traditions and There is no charge for the class but pre-reg- and first and second year medical customs. Participants will learn, share stories, For Preschoolers and their Parents istration is required. Contact Mary at 665 9897 residents, and special dues for those sing and prepare for Rosh Hashanah and Yom A monthly Sunday morning program for 3 or [email protected] by September Kippur. Each session will take place at Beth Israel and 4 year olds and a parent are being planning 35 and under 16 to register. in the Garfunkel Schteingart Activities Center to begin in October. The program will involve Individuals and families who have moved (2010) from noon until 1:15 p.m. Participants stories, games, songs, and activities. Contact to Washtenaw County since last Yom Kippur “Engaging Israel” Series at Beth Israel Cindy at 769-2041, or school@bethisrael-aa. may request free High Holiday tickets as Beth are asked to bring a dairy lunch and Beth Israel Beth Israel Congregation invites community org for more information. Israel’s way of welcoming them into the local will provide drinks and dessert. members to join together for a unique oppor- Jewish community. Graduate students and First tunity for study and discussion offered in con- Pet Shabbat and Second Year Residents with I.D.s with doc- Tot Shabbat junction with the Shalom Hartman Institute of Saturday, September 10, and Saturday, Friday, September 23, 6 p.m. umentation may also request free individual Jerusalem. September 24: 11 a.m.–noon At the annual Pet Shabbat for Humans and tickets. Request forms must be submitted be- Beginning on Tuesday evening October 18 Tot Shabbats are offered to 3–5 year olds and Their Loyal Pets, pet owners bring their pets to fore the holidays, as no tickets can be provided at 8 p.m. Beth Israel Congregation will present a their parents on the second and fourth Satur- an outdoor Shabbat Celebration for the whole immediately prior to any service. 12-session series entitled: “Engaging Israel.” The day of each month. Tot Shabbat on Septem- family in the Beth Israel courtyard. There will People who are age 35 or younger may be- goal of the project, according to the Hartman ber 10 will be led by Peretz Hirshbein, and the be Shabbat songs as well as blessings for the pets come members at a special rate of $300 for the Institute is to “respond to growing feelings of September 24 session will be led by Jessica and their owners. The event will conclude with whole family for their first year of membership disenchantment and disinterest toward Israel… Kander. Participants enjoy stories, puppets, a special oneg for pets and humans. The regular (plus USCJ dues assessment of $34.75). Gradu- by creating a new narrative regarding the sig- songs, and special kiddush tables just for 3–5 Friday night service follows at 7:15 p.m. ate students and first and second year medical nificance of Israel for Jewish life. This narrative year olds. There is no charge, and non-mem- students may also become members in a volun- will serve as a foundation for a new covenant be- Selichot Services bers are welcome to participate. tary dues opportunity. tween Israel and world Jewry, elevating the exist- Saturday, September 24, 9:30 p.m. Community adult Hebrew classes ing discourse from one with a crisis-based focus Havdallah and refreshments; 9:45 p.m. Pre Regular High Holiday tickets Beth Israel Congregation and Temple Beth to one rooted in Jewish values and ideas.” Selichot Program; 11 p.m. Selichot Service pre- Tickets for the High Holidays are provided Emeth are again joining together to offer a wide The program will feature video presenta- ceded by dedication of memorial plaques free of charge to all members of Beth Israel. range of Hebrew classes for adult learners at all tions by the director of the Hartman Institute, The Selichot service includes inspiring tra- Non-members may purchase tickets for the levels. There are three tracks of Hebrew being Rabbi Donniel Hartman, and discussions with ditional prayers, contemporary readings and High Holiday services, although no tickets are offered this year: courses for beginners, courses world-renowned scholars on Jewish thought, musical selections, providing an opportunity required for the Rosh Hashanah Family Cele- which focus on conversational Hebrew and political theory and international law. They for reflection and introspection as the High bration for Young Children and the K–5 Family courses which focus on biblical Hebrew. will discuss the meaning and significance of Holiday season officially begins. Program on the Second Day of Rosh Hashanah. Zionism today and reflect on the importance There will be a 12-week Hebrew session be- Rosh Hashanah family celebration for Those interested in further information are ginning the week of September 12, as well as a for Jews throughout the world to be actively asked to call the synagogue office at 665-9897. 12-week session beginning in January. Tuition for involved with the Jewish state and concerned young children each session is $180 for members of TBE or BIC, for its future. These video presentations will Wednesday, September 28, 4-4:45 p.m. General community is always welcome and $200 for non-members. Contact Beth Israel be used in conjunction with hevruta (small The Main Sanctuary is the site of Beth Israel’s All of Beth Israel’s events, educational offer- (665-9897, [email protected]) or group) study of traditional Jewish texts that annual “Rosh Hashanah Family Celebration”— ings, and recreational programs are open to the Temple Beth Emeth (665-4744, bwillner@tem- highlight the issues being discussed. Rabbi a program of stories, songs, a large group activ- general community. If you would like further plebethemeth.org) for a schedule of class times. Robert Dobrusin and Rabbi Kim Blumenthal ity, special treats, and the blowing of the shofar. information, call 665-9897 or visit www.bethis- Not sure which level you are in? Come to a Drop- will facilitate the text study and there will be While the program is intended for families with rael-aa.org, or Beth Israel’s facebook page. n

12 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 I Yom Kippur/Youth this month at temple Beth Emeth Yom Kippur without fasting: How kids Brett Willner, special to the WJN Adult Hebrew drop in and sign up TNT Shabbat Pot-Luck Lunch in the Arb can atone, too Wednesday, September 7, 6–7 p.m., Saturday, September 17, 12 p.m. Noon. By Sarah Chandler at Beth Israel Come join TNT for a Shabbat Lunch in NEW YORK (MyJewishLearning)—For most Use the days and weeks leading up to Yom Learning Hebrew can enrich your experi- the sun. The Shabbat Pot Luck Lunch will be adults, the central experience of Yom Kippur Kippur to take your child shopping for a mod- ence in services. For those interested in learning in Nichols Arboretum on September 17, at is fasting. By abstaining from food and drink, est pair of shoes for the occasion: canvas sneak- Hebrew, at any level, Temple Beth Emeth and 12:30 p.m. Bring a dairy dish to share with all. we exercise control over our bodies and do not ers, plastic sandals or something simple from a Beth Israel Congregation are once again part- Meet at the Arboretum parking lot on Nichols give in to our most basic impulses. This makes local thrift store. nering to offer a wide range of Hebrew classes. Drive, in front of the University Medical Cen- it pretty easy to feel the “affliction” that the To- ‘Jewish Lent’ There are three courses of Hebrew at the 100 ter. If you are running a bit late come directly rah mandates. On Yom Kippur, you can also encourage level, which is beginning Hebrew at various to the Main Valley. For more information or to But parents sometimes find it difficult to in- children to give up some basic comforts, such stages; a 200 level conversational class as well RSVP, contact Brett Willner at bwillner@tem- clude children in the holiday observances, since as a favorite toy, a special hair accessory, a par- as a 200 level biblical class. If you are not sure plebethemeth.org or 665-4744. anyone under the age of 13 is not required to ticular game or even an outdoor activity. The which level you are in, come and meet the in- fast. Here are some ways you can help your chil- important thing is that your child, with the as- structors. For questions, contact Rabbi Delson Women’s Torah Study dren have a meaningful Yom Kippur by teach- sistance and support of an adult, takes time to at [email protected]. Monday, September 19, 7–8:30 p.m. ing them disciplined, controlled behavior, as choose a specific way to abstain. Feel free to call Cantor Annie Rose leads a Women’s Torah well as the meanings behind the rituals. this act “fasting from” —for instance, “fasting Jewish Hikers of Michigan Study at Temple Beth Emeth. The Women of Fasting for those under 13 from soccer” or “fasting from Liza the bunny.” Sunday, September 11, 1–3 p.m. Reform Judaism Women’s Commentary has Children can develop a sense of what fast- If appropriate, you can discuss this depri- TBE sponsors a hiking group for the Jew- become a major source of insight for those ing symbolizes if they are involved in their vation at your seudah mafseket (“What will ish community. The September hike will leave studying Torah in depth or simply reading parents’ or older siblings’ fasting experience. be challenging for you about 25 hours with- from North Bay Park in Ypsilanti. The hikes last the weekly parsha (portion). This month, the The seudah mafseket (pre-fast meal), as well out soccer?”), and then again at your break- between 1 ½–2 hours and are not physically de- Women’s Torah group will study Nitzavim- as the break-fast meal, should be a special fast, when the deprivation is all over (“What manding. No pets please. For more information Vayelech. gathering for the whole family—fasters and thoughts came to mind when you thought or to be added to Jewish Hikers of Michigan’s non-fasters together. about how much you missed Liza?”). email list, contact Eli Avny, 883-9522 or jewish. Movie Wednesday: Annie Hall During Yom Kippur, you can share your During services [email protected]. Wednesday, September 21, 1–3 p.m. feelings about fasting with your children. If Depending on your community, you may This month’s free movie is Annie Hall di- you’re not feeling well, your kids might surprise or may not have age-appropriate services for TNT: Outing to a Tiger’s game rected by Woody Allen. The film, the roman- you with how sympathetic they are and how children. If your children are sitting through Sunday, September 11, meet at TBE helpful they can be. Children nearing the age services mainly geared toward adults, it can at 11:30 a.m.; game starts at 1:05 p.m. of 13 can fast a few hours to prepare for their be helpful to have a conversation to help them The Twenties and Thirties group are head- forthcoming adult responsibilities. connect to the meaning of the day. ing down to Detroit to witness the Detroit Ti- You can have your children eat on Yom Kip- For example, you might discuss how Yom gers take on the Twins. Tickets will cost $15. pur together with elderly or sick people who are Kippur is a day for personal and communal The group will car pool down to Tiger Stadium. also not fasting. This way, meals are likely to be atonement. This word, which might be unfa- Drivers, contact TBE. For more information or eaten in a holiday spirit, complete with bless- miliar to children, can be broken up into three to RSVP (by September 4) contact Brett Will- ings before and after. Those who are not fasting words: “at,” “one” and “-ment.” Ask your kids: ner, [email protected] or call the should make kiddush over grape juice or wine What does it mean for a person to be “at one” TBE office, 665-4744. to sanctify the day and add a special line in Bir- with himself or herself? What would it take for tic adventures of neurotic New York comedian kat Hamazon. our community to be at one with ourselves? 9/11 Memorial Service Alvy Singer and his equally neurotic girlfriend Sunday, September 11, 4–5 p.m. Alternatives to fasting What about with others? Annie Hall, traces the course of their relation- While fasting from food and drink may be However you choose to connect your chil- On Sunday, September 11, TBE will hold ship from their first meeting and serves as an a memorial service commemorating the 10th the most well-known of the Yom Kippur ritu- dren to the rituals of this holy day, keep in mind interesting historical document about love in als, there are several other opportunities for in- that though they may not yet be mature enough anniversary of the events of 9/11. Rabbi Rob- the 1970s. Join other movie enthusiasts for this ert Levy, Rabbi Lisa Delson, and Cantor Annie dividuals of all ages to “afflict their souls” on this to express it. Children are spiritual beings. Giv- afternoon movie and discussion. Snacks are day. It is appropriate for children who are not ing them an opportunity to sit and listen to the Rose will lead the one-hour service, which will provided and everyone is welcome. feature prayers and songs for healing and peace. fasting to still refrain from bathing and using sounds of the service, and explaining to them September 11 falls on 12 Elul this year, in the Story/Havdalah, S’lichot with Kol Halev creams or lotions. Also, children can participate the adult experiences of the day, can provide middle of a month of reflection and prepara- Saturday, September 24, 8:45–10:30 p.m. in the custom to abstain from wearing leather children with a chance to reflect and connect. tion for the High Holy Days. The service will The High Holy Day season is ushered in shoes, and it can be particularly meaningful to Indeed, just by taking a few simple steps include special Elul readings that encourage with the S’lichot Service. The evening will be- them if you explain why. to translate for your children the complicated healing as well as remembering. The music gin at 8:45 p.m. with refreshments. A story and Rabbi Moses Isserles pointed out how this symbolism and meaning behind your rituals, will include Gerald Cohen’s Psalm 23, Craig havdalah begin at 9:30 p.m. and is immediately practice enforces compassion for all living crea- you have the power to enhance your own per- n Taubman’s B’yado, Debbie Friedman’s Mi She- followed by S’lichot with the adult choir, Kol tures: “How can a person put on shoes, a piece sonal connection to the holiday. of clothing for which it is necessary to kill a living beirach, Nurit Hirsch’s ose Shalom, and several Halev. Come as you are from whatever evening (Sarah Chandler is the director of Jewish Family thing, on Yom Kippur, which is a day of grace and niggunim for community singing. All are invit- activity you have planned. Learning & Life at West End Synagogue, A re- compassion, when it is written ‘His tender mer- ed to attend. For more information, call Rabbi constructionist Congregation in New York.) Lisa Delson, 665-4744. Gimme Shelter: fund raiser for Alpha cies are over all His works’?” (Psalms 145:9). House/ Interfaith Hospitality Network Backdoor Food Pantry Fundraiser Saturday, September 24, 6:30–9:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 14, 6–9 p.m. This annual fundraiser, held at the Washt- Share a meal and help support The Back enaw Community College Morris Lawrence Door Food Pantry. The BDFP is operated en- Building, features a sumptuous strolling dinner, tirely by volunteer effort and 100 percent of all complimentary beer and wine, a silent auction donations go to providing food and hygiene and live music. Contact Helena Robinovitz for products to those in need. The evening will fea- more information: [email protected]. Hebrew Day School ture special “guest grillers” and many surprises. student, Leo Fried, won The fundraiser will take place at BD’s Mongolian For families with Young Children (FYC) a gold medal in math BBQ, downtown Ann Arbor, on Main Street. Friday, September 9, 5:30–7:30 p.m. for scoring in the top 2% Tot Shabbat Services (for 0–5 years old) led of the nation in a Math Men’s Torah Study by Rabbi Levy and Cantor Annie Rose begin at Olympiad competition. Wednesday, September 14, 7:30–9 p.m. 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner for Tot Shabbat Leo studies math at school Temple Beth Emeth’s Men’s Torah study and Sukkat Shalom, 6 p.m. Shira (Song Session) in a small group tutorial meets twice a month for an evening of learning. will begin at 6:30 p.m. Sukkat Shalom Shabbat geared toward his level Refreshments will be served. For more informa- Services (for 6–10 years old) led by Rabbi Del- of math understanding tion, contact Roger Stutesman at rgstutesman@ son and Cantor Annie Rose, is at 6:30 p.m., with and achievement. sbcglobal.net. a popsicle oneg at 7 p.m. n Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 13 IHigh Holidays

Spiritual preparations rabbi Aharon Goldstein, special to the WJN he month of Elul is when we prepare for Chassidus explains that the thirteen attri- month of Elul that even before the the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah butes of mercy of God are revealed and acces- high holy days God will be avail- Tand Yom Kippur. We prepare spiritually sible during the month of Elul. “The King is in able to us. so that we are not caught unprepared for the the field.” Meaning that during Elul, God is not So what in particular are we spiritual intensity required of us in the upcom- in the innermost chambers of the palace, which supposed to do in the month of ing holy days and can better appreciate all that would require proper protocol and timing to Elul to take advantage of God’s the holy days have to offer us. gain access, but rather God is out in the field eas- accessibility and favor? In “The Here is a brief historical synopsis of the spiri- ily accessible to all. This is also indicated in King Ethics of our Fathers” in chapter tual significance of the month of Elul. The first Solomon’s Song of Songs in which he writes one, we are told that the world stands time we find a significant event associated with “Ani l’dodi, v’dodi li”, “I to my beloved and my on three pillars. During Elul, we do extra Elul mentioned in the Torah is during the giving beloved to me.” This is speaking about the re- activities to enhance and strengthen these three of the Ten Commandments. After the debacle lationship between the Jewish people and God. pillars. What are the three pillars? Therefore, during Elul we should: of the golden calf, Moses went back up Mount We initiate the feeling of love to God, and he re- 1. Torah (the study of Torah) 1. Increase our study of Torah. Sinai to plead with God to forgive the Jewish turns his love to us. After this verse it is written, 2. Avodah (services, prayers) 2. Increase our praying by adding Psalm 27 dur- people. God was, to put it mildly, not favorably “My beloved goes visiting the garden of roses.” 3. Gemilus Chasadim (charity, acts of kindness) ing services. Many communities as well as disposed toward the Jewish people after the inci- The rabbis ask why Solomon uses the image Interestingly, in various parts of Torah, the Chabad custom is to add this in the morn- dent of the golden calf. Moses was pleading with of a garden of roses. Why this particular flower word Elul is found as an acronym making refer- ing and afternoon. Other communities do it God for weeks and weeks and weeks without when he could have chosen from any plant? The ence to these three pillars. morning and evening. Also, the Ba’al Shem any favorable response until Rosh Chodesh Elul. Midrash answers that there are several qualities For number one, the study of Torah, there is Tov initiated the custom of reciting three It was on that first day of Elul that God began that are unique to the rose that make it a suit- an acronym in Exodus (12:13) where God is tell- chapters of Tehillim (psalms) each day from to shine his countenance once again toward the able metaphor for what Solomon is saying. First, ing us that he will give us cities of refuge. Today we the beginning of Elul until eve of Yom Kip- Jewish people. Moses continued his pleading to a mature rose has thirteen petals. These corre- don’t have cities of refuge, but it is written that the pur and the remaining balance on the day of God for forty more days until the tenth of Tish- spond to God’s 13 attributes of mercy. Second, Torah is a place of refuge for us. By the merit of Yom Kippur. rei, Yom Kippur, when God finally forgave the the particular type of rose being spoken of is red. studying Torah, one can gain protection. 3. Increase our giving of tzedakah. Look for in- Jewish people for their grievous sin. He also gave When the petals of a red rose are burned, the For number two, the mitzvah of prayer, we creased opportunities to give charity to the the second set of tablets of ten commandments ashes are white instead of the expected black. see the acronym for Elul in the above mentioned needy, to help support Torah institutions, and told Moses to deliver them to the Jewish This tells us that our sins (scarlet) when sub- Song of Songs “Ani l’dodi, v’dodi li”. During Jewish education and other worthy causes. people waiting below at the foot of Mount Si- jected to the intensity of teshuva (repentance, prayer we initiate the positive feelings to God So, God willing, we should use the month nai. This time the people were ready to properly returning to Hashem’s way) will be forgiven and and then God returns his love to us. in the best way we can, and in that merit God receive the Torah from God through Moses. we will be pure as snow (white). For number three, acts of kindness, we find should bless us with a happy year, a healthy year, So Elul was (and is in every year) a very aus- So this is what Elul is about. We have the as- the acronym in the Megillah of Esther where it is a successful year, and everyone should have a picious time for us to ask forgiveness of God as pect of teshuva and God showing his mercy to written that one should give gifts to friends and k’siva vachasima tova, to be written and sealed n well as for God to show his mercy to us. us. This is the great opportunity we have in the also gifts to the poor. for a good year. Shana Tova!

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14 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 Prayer and justice work: the perfect complements By Jill Jacobs NEW YORK (JTA)—In contemporary Jewish for what we have, even when every one of our discourse, the worlds of the synagogue and the desires might not be fulfilled. For those who are worlds of service and advocacy sit far apart. The struggling to get by, these blessings offer hope Your feet are in good hands former is a place of introspection, of prayer and that our situations will improve. of relationship with God. The latter is a place of For all of us, these blessings challenge us to action and engagement in the world. create a world in which every person is free, and Many of us distinguish between “religious” in which every person can meet the basic needs Jews and “secular” Jews. Religious Jews attend of his or her family. We cannot simply thank God synagogue, observe Shabbat and keep kosher. for opening the eyes of the blind without consid- For secular Jews, their primary involvement ering how we can make the world more acces- comes through culture and justice. sible to people with physical limitations. And we But these boundaries between prayer and cannot thank God for giving us freedom without justice, and between the internal and the ex- working to secure the freedom of the estimated ternal, are foreign to Judaism. Halachah, most 12 million people in the world who remain en- often translated as “Jewish law,” literally means slaved. Rather than allow us to retreat internally, “the way to walk.” To be a Jew is to walk through prayer forces us out into the world. the world in a Jewish way. This Jewish way in- At the same time, prayer provides a necessary cludes contemplation and action, prayer and check on the tendency of social justice activists service, relationships with the Divine and rela- to try to fix the world right now, no matter the tionships with other human beings. cost to them or to others. Prayer, Shabbat and On Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur, many other rituals provide spiritual nourishment, the Jews spend more hours in the synagogue than at feeling that our work is connected to a broader any other time during the year. For this reason, whole, and even a sense of humility. these holidays can feel purely contemplative. Social justice work famously burns out many Yet Rosh HaShanah is also “yom teruah,” “the of the idealistic young people who sign up after day of sounding the shofar,” when we hear the college to be organizers or campaign workers. sound that the Torah associates with liberation. As for the longtime social justice activists, some And Yom Kippur morning is punctuated with begin to feel like the work is the only thing that Isaiah’s call to “loose the chains of injustice… to matters. In many cases, this leads to long work set the oppressed free.” hours and a never-ending sense of urgency. In These intrusions of real-life politics into the the worst cases, some come to believe that the contemplative business of prayer remind us relentless pursuit of the cause justifies bad be- that prayer and justice work were never meant havior toward others or the tolerance of abusive to be separate realms of behavior. Rather, the work environments. two constitute complementary aspects of an Stopping to pray, to mark time or even to integrated Jewish life. In this integrated life, take off 25 hours for Shabbat is a means of ac- prayer and ritual push us toward justice work knowledging that even if we work every minute and sustain us in these efforts. of every day, we’re not going to fix everything. We often think of prayer as a one-way This realization forces us to see ourselves as par- The Midwest’s conversation with God. We praise God for ev- ticipants in a long-term struggle rather than as erything that is good in the world and beg for heroes able to repair the world on our own. supernatural forces to change what is not. In- Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kippur may be largest selection stead, we might understand prayer as a two-way days to sit in prayer and contemplation. But this exchange that includes a challenge to us as well ritual does not constitute a break from justice of Naot shoes as an appeal to God. work. Rather, these days should both nourish For example, Jews each morning tradition- our justice work and challenge us to recommit ally recite a series of blessings about everyday to these efforts in the year ahead. n available at Mast Shoes miracles. We give thanks for our vision, our (rabbi Jill Jacobs is the executive director of freedom, our clothing and our other basic rabbis for Human rights-North America.) needs. For those who have what they need to survive, these blessings remind us to be grateful www.mastshoes.com 734-662-8118

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Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 15 Tuesday, November 1, 7:30 PM Michigan Theater

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16 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 I Youth

New faculty and staff at HDS JCC youth programs Dina Shtull, special to the WJN Shoshana Jackson, special to the WJN ebrew Day School (HDS) has an- vah coordinator for a Hu- Afterschool programs elementary students will run for six weeks, nounced its new faculty and staff for manistic temple. Lapitsky is The Jewish Community Center of Greater beginning Monday, September 19. These Hthe 2011–2012 academic year. Deb- a graduate of York Univer- Ann Arbor is gearing up to provide another fun and stimulating afternoon classes run bie Carbone and Jennifer Rosenberg will be sity where she received her enriching year of afterschool programs. The from 4:20–5:20 p.m. and are open to both returning to HDS, and Janice Lieberman will bachelors degree in educa- JCC’s afterschool programs are designed to JCC members and non-members in grades be expanding her role at the school. New teach- tion, a bachelors degree in provide the safety and convenience parents K–5. Snack and supervision in the JCC’s ers for Hebrew and Judaic Studies include Sha- sociology with a minor in need and the fun and excitement children after school programs before each class are ron Lapitsky, Aaron Magid, and Hadas Hoss religious studies, and a spe- desire. included for all class participants (a Child Todros. Veteran teacher, Aaron Kaufman, will Sharon Lapitsky cialized certificate in teach- The JCC’s Kids’ Konnection after school Information Record must be on file for stu- add on responsibilities as a mentor to the new ing Hebrew and Jewish studies. She did her program caters to students in kindergarten dents using after school care before class). teachers. Alison Reingold will be joining the teaching practicum in a Hebrew school, a day HDS administrative staff as a Development school, and a secular school. Lapitsky is a native and Marketing Associate. of Israel. Debbie Carbone, who taught first grade at Fourth grade Hebrew/Judaics will be taught HDS in 2009–2010, will be a co-kindergarten by Aaron Magid. Magid was an HDS long-term teacher, along with Judy Musket and Hadas substitute during the winter Hoss Todros. Prior to teach- 2011, and will continue on as ing at HDS, Carbone was a a teacher. Magid is studying kindergarten teacher in the Arabic and political science West Hartford public school in the Honors Program at system, and at the Jewish the University of Michigan. Community Day School in He received a fellowship in Watertown, Massachusetts. foreign language studies Carbone has a master’s de- and is participating in the Aaron Magid Debbie Carbone gree in education from Les- U-M’s Arabic flagship pro- ley University in Cambridge, gram. Magid has been teaching at Beth Israel Massachusetts, with a focus in literacy. Her un- Religious School, and was a senior counselor at dergraduate degree is in early childhood edu- Camp Ramah. He lived in Israel for two years, cation from the University of Wisconsin where and is a product of Chicago Jewish day schools she also minored in human development and through high school. family studies. Hadas Hoss Todros will be the Hebrew Jennifer Rosenberg, an HDS kindergarten and Judaics studies teacher in the kinder- teacher from 1999–2009, will join the staff for garten. Todros began as the 2011–2012 academic year to support the the gan Hebrew teacher in teachers in implementing the new Common March of 2010. Formally Core Academic Standards an attorney in Israel, she newly adopted by 48 states. was chosen by the Israeli through second grade with nurturing staff, The enrichment schedule is still being Rosenberg has degrees in ed- court system to teach chil- daily circle time, and exciting supervised ac- finalized, but may include offerings such as ucation from the University dren from many schools tivities. The Kids’ Club program is designed Lego Robotics, Soccer, Tennis, Basketball, of Wisconsin and Harvard about citizenship, democ- to meet the interests of third through fifth Yoga, Fun with Food, and Art. Registration forms with details will be available in Sep- University, and is a recipient Hadas Hoss Todros racy, violence prevention, graders with designated homework time, of the Grinspoon-Steinhardt and human rights. She was separate hang-out spaces, and expanded tember at www.jccannarbor.org and at the Award for Excellence in Jew- also an instructor at Ben Gurion University activity choices. Both programs run from JCC. Registration and payment will be due ish Education. In addition to in the area of law and legal affairs. 3:20–6 p.m. daily. Parents interested in after by September 15. Jennifer Rosenberg her work at HDS, Rosenberg Aron Kaufman, mentor teacher, has a mas- school programs for 6th–8th graders should also teaches graduate classes for teachers, and a ters degree in education from Marygrove Col- inquire about the JCC’s Middle School Help- School’s Out / JCC’s In Days system of professional learning called Collab- lege, a bachelors degree in ers program. Whenever Hebrew Day School and/or orative Analysis of Student Learning. political science from the Both Kids’ Konnection and Kids’ Club Ann Arbor Public Schools are closed for a Janice Lieberman, the HDS librarian, will U-M (’82), and a teach- offer convenient scheduling options, allow- day but the JCC is open, the JCC Youth De- expand her hours for math enrichment. Prior ing certificate in elemen- ing parents to choose schedules from 2 to partment offers full-day programs featuring to coming to HDS in 2006, Lieberman worked tary education from Eastern 5 days per week and also to utilize drop-in field trips or special activities for students in as an elementary school teacher for 2 years Michigan University (’90). care for additional days. Participants receive grades K–5. in Philadelphia and 8 years in Montgomery Kaufman conducts semi- discounts on JCC youth enrichment classes The first School’s Out Days of this year County, Maryland. While teaching in Mary- nars for elementary and and Snow Day programs. Additional siblings will be held on Wednesday, September 28 (Erev Rosh Hashana) and Friday, October land, Janice participated Aron Kaufman preschool teachers on He- enrolled in the JCC’s after school programs in the Mathematics Teach- brew immersion instruc- receive a 10 percent discount, and employees 7 (Erev Yom Kippur) for HDS students and ers Training Program and tion. Kaufman began teaching at HDS in 1990. of Jewish community organizations are also other students. The programs will run from conducted workshops for Alison Reingold, HDS development and eligible for discounts. Scholarships are avail- 8 a.m.–3 p.m. only on these days, since the elementary math teachers marketing associate, was formerly associate able for qualifying families. JCC is closing at 3 p.m. Registration forms in problem-solving strate- director of the Department Several afternoon transportation op- with details will be available in September at gies. She has been teaching of Development Research at tions are available for students who attend www.jccannarbor.org and at the JCC. a math tutorial to a small the U-M. She also worked local elementary schools. Ann Arbor Public School’s Out Days are for JCC members group of HDS students, one in development research for Schools provide free bus transportation to only and are open to students attending Janice Lieberman of whom won a gold medal the Phoenix House Founda- the JCC from Bryant, Pattengill, and Ann Ar- HDS, AAPS schools, and other schools. The for scoring in the top 2 percent of the nation tion, volunteered with the bor Open elementary schools. The JCC may programs run from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. The cost in a Math Olympiad contest. Lieberman has Juvenile Diabetes Founda- also be able to provide transportation from is $38 per day (additional siblings: $34). PM a Masters of Education degree in reading in- tion, and was a junior ac- some other elementary schools. Care from 4–6 p.m. is available for a $10 fee. struction from the University of Maryland and count executive for Trylon Registrations for JCC’s afterschool Middle school students are also welcome to Alison Reingold a bachelors degree in elementary education Communications. Reingold programs will be accepted in the fall and participate as helpers for a reduced fee ($20/ n from the University of Pennsylvania. has a B.A. in communications from Muhlen- throughout the school year. day, including PM Care if needed). Sharon Lapitsky will teach Hebrew and berg College, with a minor in Jewish studies. For more information and registration forms Judaics for third and fifth grades. Prior to this Hebrew Day School is expanding services to September-October for all JCC youth programs, contact Shoshana position, Lapitsky taught for four years at the meet the needs of each and every child. For Enrichment Classes Jackson at [email protected] or Paul Penna Downtown Jewish Day School in more information about private tours and The JCC has announced its schedule of 971-0990. Toronto. She also taught in afternoon religious information evenings, contact 971-4633 or after school classes for the September-Oc- schools, as a private tutor, and as the b’nai mitz- www.hdsaa.org. n tober session. Youth Enrichment classes for

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 17 IYouth

Camp Raanana still great after 40 years Shoshana Jackson, special to the WJN amp Raanana, the Jewish Commu- Skills, Martial Arts, Drama, Clay Creations, nity Center of Greater Ann Arbor’s World of Sports, Edible Art, Dance, and Wa- Coutdoor summer day camp for chil- ter Wonders. Campers entering grades 6–8 dren entering grades K–8, celebrated its 40th participated in Camp Raanana’s Pioneer anniversary camp season this year. The camp Adventure Program. The Pioneer campers experienced record enrollment numbers, in- enjoyed exciting field trips and fun mitzvah cluding a 15 percent increase in registrations projects each week, participated in activity over last year. More than 175 campers partic- sessions and Shabbat celebrations at camp, ipated in camp over the course of the sum- and joined the rest of camp for weekly spe- mer, and many of them are already counting cial events and all-camp field trips. the days until the next camp season begins. The all-camp field trips this summer included visits to the Toledo Zoo, Rolling Hills Water Park, Romu- lus Athletic Center, Splash Universe Water Park, Northfork Farms, the Imagination Station, Howell Nature Center, the Detroit Science Center, and Greenfield Village. The field trips were the highlights of each week for many campers and were wonderful Supporting excellence opportunities for campers of differ- ent ages to enjoy educational and fun activities together. in education. In addition to the weekly field trips, Camp Raanana offered a num- ber of special events throughout sum- Supporting our mer. Towards the start of the summer, Camp Raanana always prides itself on its the campers enjoyed a Fourth of July Animal experienced and dedicated staff members, Safari Extravaganza. All the campers also community. and this year’s counselors and specialists had a great time singing and dancing when were no exception. The camp was delighted the Israel Scouts Friendship Caravan visited to welcome many outstanding first time camp for Israel Day and performed at the Supporting our future. counselors, as well as some staff members JCC in the evening. Later in the summer, the returning for their fifth or sixth summer at campers showed off their team spirit during camp. In addition, Camp Raanana’s Coun- the Camp Raanana Maccabi Games, a day of selor in Training (CIT) Program for teens color wars and silly relay races. At the annual entering 9th and 10th grade was tremen- Shabbat at the Lake event, camp families en- dously successful. Fourteen enthusiastic and joyed a picnic dinner overlooking the lake talented teens spent four weeks of their sum- and performances by all the camper groups. mer developing the skills to be future coun- Finally, to celebrate the end of the summer, The Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation selors, while enjoying social activities with everyone participated in Spirit Week, featur- their fellow CITs and other camp staff. ing fun theme days including Wacky Hair is a non-profit organization, separate from the Ann Arbor This year, campers entering grades K–2 Day and Crazy Hat Day. Public Schools, that serves as the one true vehicle for enjoyed swim lessons, arts & crafts, mu- Although summer has just ended, plan- sic, Judaics, nature exploration, sports, free ning for the next season is already under way, private giving to our public schools. We support everything swim, Shabbat celebrations, and weekly and the Camp Raanana staff looks forward to special events and field trips. Campers en- welcoming many new and returning camp- from math and science to instrumental music, career tering grades 3–5 participated in these camp ers next year. For questions about Camp and college readiness programs, arts and humanities to activities and also got to choose an enrich- Raanana, visit www.CampRaanana.com or ing specialty each week. This year’s special- contact Shoshana Jackson at shoshanajack- innovative teacher grants. Helping the future remain bright ties included Boating, Spy School, Camping [email protected] or 971-0990. n for all of us. Hadassah announces new vision for Young Judaea Samantha Friedman, special to the WJN This past June, Young Judaea, the Zionist youth go-to group for unparalleled Jewish youth lead- movement, supported by Hadassah, the Wom- ership development and Israel engagement.” en’s Zionist Organization of America, for more Berman said the immediate goals of the re- than 70 years, was launched as an independent vitalized pluralistic youth movement include: organization. • Creating a cohesive summer camp network A group of former Young Judaea leaders, avid and broadening the scope of its Israel of- Young Judaea supporters, and Hadassah leaders ferings, including Year Course in Israel, its were asked to serve on the founding board of preeminent college gap-year program; the newly independent organization. Hadassah • Providing new energy for Young Judaea as a Learn how you can help at will continue to provide financial support, have vibrant brand with relevant peer-led oppor- www.SupportAnnArborSchools.org board representation, and work collaboratively tunities for connecting American youth to with the 102-year-old movement, said Hadas- Israel and the Jewish people; and sah National President Nancy Falchuk. • Reaching out to its vast alumni network and “The alumni of Young Judaea are proud Jewish community leaders worldwide to that Hadassah’s national board voted this week participate in the re-envisioning process and to help the movement become independent,” serve on the new Young Judaea board. Join us on Facebook board member Michael Berman said. “With “Our programs, including Year Course and the leadership and support of Hadassah, Young summer camps, will continue as they always Judaea will have the tools it needs to grow and have, and the overall transition will be seam- strengthen. Young Judaea will continue to be the Continued on next page 18 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 A summer of growth at Camp tavor Emily Eisbruch, special to the WJN amp Tavor, located 2.5 hours west etables enjoyed by the campers and staff at of Ann Arbor, near Three Rivers, mealtimes throughout the summer. Radishes CMichigan, is known as a wonderful were so abundant that they were donated to lo- Jewish summer camp, beloved to many Ann cal shelters. The herbs grown in the Chava were Arbor youth. This past summer one of the used for Havdalah ceremony every Shabbat. cool parts of Camp Tavor got even better, To help with awareness of the success and when the garden was expanded, becoming abundance of the Chava, the Camp Tavor din- a more integral part of the camp experience. ning hall featured a chalk board reading “food The garden at Camp Tavor is now known as from the Chava in this meal.” Every day a the “Chava” (farm) since it has grown to en- camper updated the board and also announced

Brothers Erez and Oren Brandvain in the bounteous vegetable garden at Camp Tavor Goats and other farm animals enrich the Camp Tavor experience compass both an expanded vegetable garden out loud what foods were being supplied. Joel and also many wonderful animals, such as Appel-Kraut, an 11-year-old from Ann Arbor, chickens, goats, and rabbits. said, “I think its really cool that people can eat Every morning during the summer, about 25 the stuff we are working on back there!” campers along with five counselors worked on Much of the credit for the Chava’s tremendous tasks such as weeding and harvesting in the Cha- expansion entering the summer of 2011 goes to va. In addition, most days an activity took place a Camp Tavor counselor named Erez Brandvain. later on in the day using the Chava as an educa- Erez is the third of a family of three brothers, all tional tool for topics, including self-dependence, of whom have made their mark on the Chava, Judaism, Zionism, team building, and more. Older brothers Ilan and Oren inspired Erez with The abundant fresh food coming from the their love of the Camp Tavor garden and their Chava translated into delicious and nutritious environmental leadership in previous years. This ingredients for the meals in the Camp Tavor spring Erez sprang into action. dining hall. Beats, lettuce zucchini, collards, A student at Kalamzoo College, Erez drove cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, green beans, from Kalamazoo to Camp Tavor regularly dur- kale, and broccoli were among the tasty veg- ing the spring so that he could work in the gar- den from 5:30–7 a.m. or 8 a.m. every morning and 5–8 p.m. every night. Building a fence, us- Continued from previous page ing a roto-tiller to till the entire land, digging the beds, spreading compost, planting, and in- stalling drip tape (an irrigation tool that mini- less,” Berman said. “We are excited about the mizes water waste by providing a small amount prospects of working with Hadassah to further of water to plants throughout a long period of strengthen what Young Judaea is and all that it time) were all part of the work. Erez notes that has to offer.” he had valuable help in this work from many Guiding Young Judaea toward indepen- other dedicated people during the spring. dence has been a Hadassah goal. “This is what Reflecting on the importance of “Jewcol- the broader Jewish community has been look- ogy” in Jewish camping, Camp Tavor Executive ing to us to do,” Falchuk said. “Young Judaea is Director Shelley Goldwater notes, “While many the gold standard for Jewish youth movements, Jewish summer camps are now emphasizing and as Hadassah increases its focus on health the need for more environmental education care and other issues, nothing could make us rooted in Judaism, it seems that Camp Tavor prouder than to have the legacy of being a part is a leading example of a camp where kids are of Young Judaea for so many years.” actually gaining hands-on experience and con- Falchuk said Hadassah is committed to necting to Jewish roots in agriculture. There has remaining an important partner, providing been an entire process integrating the concepts transition funding, and continuing to raise and eventually resulting in food the kids grew scholarships to make Young Judaea’s five being enjoyed at the dinner table.” n summer camps, year-round activities, and Israel programs, increasingly available to all For more information about Camp Tavor, visit Jewish youth. n the website at www.camptavor.org or email ex- [email protected]. Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 19 ITeens

Hannah Sherman and Yasaf Warshai recipients of 2011 Susan L. Lichter Memorial Endowed Israel Scholarships Eileen Freed, special to the WJN nn Arbor teens Hannah Sherman Hannah Sherman is a senior at Huron ticipant in the movement’s Workshop program The Lichters are pleased their efforts are and Yasaf Warshai were recipients of High School and participated in the Alexander during which he’ll live on a kibbutz and live and bearing fruit. “We are so happy to be able to Athe 2011 Susan L. Lichter Memorial Muss High School in Israel program during volunteer in a more urban setting. He looks for- make a difference by helping these two out- Endowed Israel Scholarship Fund. Paul and the past summer. She selected this program ward to “further developing leadership skills and standing teens reach their dreams of travel- Carolyn Lichter created the fund to honor the because she liked the combination of “living helping to contribute to Israeli society.” ing to Israel,” said Carolyn. “We hope that in memory of their daughter, Susan Lichter z”l, in Israel, learning about Israel and seeing Is- The applicants submitted essays in which the coming year, even more young people and over 170 relatives, friends and communi- rael. She was “totally surprised, thrilled and they described their goals for visiting Israel and will travel to Israel and participate in this ty members contributed to the fund. The pro- honored” to receive the scholarship. how their particular program would help them scholarship process.” ceeds provide two scholarships annually for Yasaf Warshai is a recent graduate from meet these goals. A scholarship committee, To learn more about the 2012 scholarship Ann Arbor area high school students to par- Community High School and has been involved chaired by Laurie Rashes and including Judie process, visit www.jewishannarbor.org. Ap- ticipate in peer group Israel experiences such in Habonim Dror for many years. He will be Lax, Ami Rosenthal, and U-M student Jenna plications for the 2012 scholarship are due as semester, summer or gap year programs. spending the 2011–2012 school year as a par- Weinberg, made the scholarship decisions. February 1, 2012. n Alexander Muss High School in Israel offers exciting opportunity Experiencing Israel as a By Hannah Sherman Habonim Dror’s Workshop I grew up in a very active Jewish community in packed in remote areas of the United States excited about the possibility of interacting with Minneapolis, where my family was extremely and Peru, and have seen how every element a broad spectrum of other Jewish teens. While program participant involved in synagogue and I attended Jewish of the natural world is always changing. I there are many programs that tour Israel, I By Yasaf Warshai day school and camps. As a child, it seemed also know that my own perspective or view want to experience Israeli culture and history There are many reasons I want to go to Israel. as though my Jewish identity was a “given.” First of all, as a Jew who was raised in the When we moved to Ann Arbor, however, I en- Diaspora, I feel that Israel is the center of my countered a very different kind of community heritage, culture, and identity. I feel a deep with few engaging social or spiritual outlets connection to the country and the Jewish for Jewish teens. As I began high school, my people, and I believe it is an important place involvement in sports and extra curricular where Jews from all over the world can come activities added to my loss of personal Jew- together. I want to get to know such a place ish identity. My family observes kashrut and and spend some time helping Israel grow. By celebrates Shabbat each week, but I found it participating in the Habonim Dror Workshop challenging to express and develop the Jew- program, I will have the opportunity not only ish part of myself beyond the traditions of my to spend time touring the country and learn- home. Since starting high school, my sum- ing about its history, but also to work and ac- mers have been committed to programs that tively contribute to its development. developed other personal beliefs, such as en- Another part of my motivation to travel vironmental and marine conservation. When to Israel comes from my background and I was younger, I never felt I had to work at my involvement in the youth movement Ha- spiritual identity; it was such a fundamental bonim Dror. For the past nine years, I have part of my life. Increasingly, however, I real- been attending the movement’s Midwest ize that I must take the initiative to develop Camp Tavor and the local Ann Arbor chap- my spirituality. This has motivated me to take ter, which is called Ken Pardes. The youth greater responsibility in seeking opportunities movement has been the center of my Jew- that address my emerging spiritual questions ish experience and education. Through Ha- and my wish for Jewish connectedness. bonim Dror, I have been able to explore and I was not looking for a typical summer develop my Jewish identity. It has taught me tour of Israel—I want to learn and experi- a lot about Judaism and Zionism, as well as Hannah Sherman in Jerusalem ence Israel in a genuine way. Alexander Muss social justice. High School in Israel program stood out to of a mountain or lake will be uniquely influ- with peers who are similarly interested in ex- For the past few years, I have been a coun- me because it combines living in Israel, learn- enced by the particular light, air, mood and panding their awareness of the many ways we selor and leader in Ken Pardes, and I am cur- ing about Israel, and traveling and seeing Is- circumstance of that moment in time. I see can define and express Jewish life. While I have rently the co-chair of the chapter. Through rael. I believe that Alexander Muss provides the world around me in a unique way, and visited Israel with my family, I believe that I these leadership opportunities I have gained a structured environment to learn about Is- I believe that Hockney’s technique with this have to establish and explore my own relation- a lot of insight into my personal strengths rael in an in-depth way, while providing the piece represents that we all see things with ship with the land and with the role Israel plays and myself. This has become another moti- freedom to explore the modern culture and both personal and collective perspectives. To in my life. Alexander Muss seems like an ideal vating factor in my decision to go to Israel on create your own relationship with the land— me, this piece illustrates the idea that “the opportunity to re-examine and renew my con- the Workshop Program. I want to further my from multiple points of view. whole is greater than the sum of its parts,” nection. I appreciate that this program brings education about Israel and to continue my One of my favorite works of art has been while still showing that each part plays an in- teens together for a unique and focused expe- involvement in Habonim Dror, while also the basis for a goal of mine this summer in valuable role in creating the completed prod- rience, and I believe that being surrounded by learning more about my beliefs and myself. Israel. David Hockney’s photo-collage “Mer- uct. I believe that I must learn about Israel many points of view and levels of observance The Workshop Program is the next step for ced River,” portrays a striking view of a wind- from as many points of view and mediums will provide an invaluable opportunity for me students my age in the youth movement and ing river in the Yosemite Valley. Through the of education in order to discover my true to rediscover what I believe and feel commit- is designed as a gap year between high school technique of collage, Hockney assembles a connection. I believe that Alexander Muss ted to at this point in my life. I feel I can offer and college. I am interested in Workshop collection of many single photographs of provides me the opportunity to take full ad- a unique perspective based on my experiences because I know many people, including my this landscape into a unified, if fragmented vantage of my summer in Israel. of being Jewish in a small community, and I sister and mother, who have participated in whole. Unlike most photographs, which My motivation for visiting Israel this sum- know I can contribute to creating an open and the program and found it to be an incredibly capture a moment in time, this collage sug- mer is to create my own community and re- respectful community with my peers. I am ex- enriching experience. I would really like to be gests that time and perspective are always connect with my Jewish identity. I realize that tremely excited to spend the summer in Israel able to have that experience too. shifting. There are no “smooth edges” to this in order to have an identity I must surround and discover my Jewish identity as I move into While I am on the program one of my piece—the outline is jagged, and as a result, myself with those who are similarly interested the next stages of my life. n goals will be to develop leadership skills and the piece has an almost jarring effect. I be- in exploring their Judaism and spending the first-hand knowledge about Israel, which I Hannah Sherman is a senior at Ann Arbor lieve the finished project becomes something summer in Israel to do that. I am eager to ex- can then bring back to the community of Huron High School. She spent six weeks this much more interesting and compelling than amine, learn and reflect on all aspects of my Jewish youth here in the U.S. I want to help summer on the Alexander Muss High School a single image. I find this piece truly captures Jewish and spiritual life. I am determined to in israel program based in Hod HaSharon. the actual experience of nature. I have back- bring my Jewish life into better balance, and am Continued on next page

20 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 Continued from previous page

inspire them to develop a real connection to Israel, too. On the Workshop program I can do this, while also serving Israel and the Jew- ish community as a whole. During the first half of Workshop, I will be living communally and working on a kib- butz with the other program participants. We will also be taking classes together, such as Hebrew language, Israeli culture, and Jew- ish history, as well as having important dis- cussions about our Judaism and traditions. There will also be an emphasis on learning important life skills and living collectively with the other participants, which will help prepare me for the next part of the trip. The second half of the program is spent living as part of a smaller group in an Israeli city while working as a long-term volunteer in one of several social action projects. The project placements include several in the field of education as well as others that help build a more just and egalitarian society. Overall, my fellow program participants and I will Yasaf Warshai be working to help enhance understanding in keeping Israel strong, because the youth and peace among the people of Israel. For in- we will be working with are the future of the stance, projects include tutoring Israeli youth country. Also, the experiences and discussions and leading Jewish/Arab co-existence activi- I will be participating in and the things I will ties. However, our goal will be more than sim- be learning about myself will be invaluable ply teaching English. We will be focusing on to my future. I believe now is the best time teaching important values and instilling self- for me to go to Israel because at this point in confidence in these youth, so that they can my life I will be able to contribute the most grow into a position to help Israel themselves. to Israel, while also taking the most from the I also plan on going into the field of education experience. I will have the opportunity not or possibly studying English in college, so ex- only to learn more about myself before col- perience in both of those areas during this gap lege, but also to connect to Israel on a deeper year would be very valuable to me. Another level. I know I want to be a part of Israel and important aspect of the program is the variety help it grow, and being able to participate in of educational seminars and travel through- the Workshop program gives me the best op- out Israel. We will have the opportunity to portunity to fulfill these goals. n discuss relevant topics and come up with our own solutions for issues facing Israeli culture Yasaf Warshai is a recent graduate of Com- today, while actually being in a position to munity High School. He will be spending the help put these changes into effect. 2011ñ2012 school year in israel on Habonim I believe the work I will be participating Dror’s Workshop. in on the Workshop program is invaluable New teen program offered by Habonim Dror and A2RH builds continuity through leadership training Aura Ahuvia, special to the WJN There is a new group forming for young teens. Hineini, which means “here I am,” is a new monthly group providing leadership training, fun social activities, and a way to explore Jew- ish identity in a meaningful way. The Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah, a creative, pro- gressive Jewish congregation, and Habonim-Dror, a long-time youth group and national Jewish youth movement are administering the program jointly. “Hineini is about Jewish youth looking critically at their Jewish identity, and taking responsibil- ity for it,” Hineini Director Matan Naamani said. “It’s about understanding their own unique role in the Jewish community, and from that base, shaping themselves and their communities.” Hineini is for Jewish youth, ages 13–15, or eighth grade through high school sophomore. Edu- cation focuses on community building, Jewish ethical values, Jewish tradition and youth leader- ship/empowerment. Its teachers, themselves products of the Jewish camping movement, employ active, experiential, informal learning techniques to involve the students. “Ultimately, the skills they develop can be translated into strengthening the community,” said Naamani. “We want these teens to have the drive and know-how to be an active force of good in the world.” Opening day for Hineini is Sunday, September 25, from 2–4 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor. All Jewish teens ages 13–15 are welcome to try it; RSVP is requested by September 18, for planning purposes. Deadline to register for the semester (September through December) is the end of September, with October registrations accepted for an additional fee. To register or to find out more, contact Matan Naamani, director, at 904-6578 or [email protected], or, Aura Ahuvia, Havurah rabbinic intern, at 846-2826 or [email protected]. n

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 21 I Year in Review

Looking back: A review of the news highlights of the Jewish year 5771 By JTA Staff NEW YORK (JTA)—The following is a re- December An annual survey from The Chronicle of A bomb explodes outside a Chabad center view of the news highlights of the Jewish year Forty-two people are killed and 12,000 Philanthropy finds that America’s most gen- in Southern California. The suspect turns out 5771. acres are destroyed by a massive forest fire in erous citizens gave less in 2010 than they have to be Jewish. over the past decade, with Jews remaining Obama picks Rep. Debbie Wasserman September 2010 northern Israel that prompts firefighting -as sistance from countries around the region. among the top givers. Schultz, a Jewish Democrat from Florida, to Despite offers of increased U.S. military In a speech to an Arab-American group At the Academy Awards, Jewish win- chair the Democratic National Committee. equipment, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin in Michigan, former White House journalist ners included Israel-born Natalie Portman The Union for Reform Judaism names Netanyahu decides against extending the Helen Thomas says that Congress, the White for her portrayal of a tortured ballerina in Rabbi Rick Jacobs as its choice to succeed 10-month West Bank settlement freeze. House, Hollywood and Wall Street are “owned “Black Swan” and 73-year-old “The King’s Rabbi Eric Yoffie at the helm of the move- October by the Zionists.” The remark prompts the So- Speech” screenwriter David Seidler, himself ment. Jacobs comes under fire for his affili- a stutterer whose paternal grandparents per- ations with J Street and the New Israel Fund. President Obama’s top two Jewish ciety of Professional Journalists later to drop ished in the Holocaust. Oscars were handed He is later confirmed by the union’s board. aides—Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel and her name from an annual lifetime achieve- out as well to American filmmakers Kirk Si- The Palestinian Hamas and Fatah factions senior adviser David Axelrod, both with of- ment award. mon and Karen Goodman for “Strangers No announce that they are reconciling, prompt- fices within shouting distance of the Oval Newly released Nixon-era tapes include More, a short documentary on the Bialik- ing calls for the U.S. government to cut off Office—announce that they will be leaving recordings of Henry Kissinger saying the the- Rogozin School in south Tel Aviv, and Su- aid to the Palestinian Authority. However, a the administration. oretical gassing of Soviet Jews wouldn’t be an American concern. sanne Bier, the Danish director-writer of “In Hamas-Fatah unity government fails to ma- A Seattle group pays for ads to run on a Better World” who studied for two years at terialize. the Hebrew University and the Bezalel Acad- buses in the city that accuse Israel of war May crimes. The ads are pulled before they ever emy in Jerusalem. Osama bin Laden is killed in Pakistan run, prompting a lawsuit. An Israeli backpacker is among the dead by U.S. forces, prompting questions about Former Israeli President Moshe Katsav is after an earthquake hits Christchurch on New whether the liquidation of al-Qaida’s leader convicted of rape. Zealand’s South Island. The city’s Chabad house is destroyed. makes a follow-up attack more or less likely January 2011 Actor Charlie Sheen’s rant against his Jew- and whether Jews could be a target. Jews worldwide mourn the passing of ish boss is called borderline anti-Semitism by Debbie Friedman, a popular singer and song- the Anti-Defamation League and, after some writer who is widely credited with reinvigo- additional outbursts by Sheen, results in his For the first time in history, the U.S. Supreme rating synagogue music and best known for eventual firing from the popular CBS sitcom Court convened with three Jewish justices. her composition “Mi Shebeirach,” a prayer for “Two and a Half Men.” A Knesset proposal to require loyalty oaths healing that is sung in many North American of non-Jews wishing to become Israeli citizens congregations. March wins the endorsement of Israel’s Cabinet and U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz.), the The fashion house Dior fires acclaimed de- prompts protests in Tel Aviv. The proposal is first Jewish woman elected to statewide office signer John Galliano after a video surfaces of later amended to include Jews as well. in Arizona, is shot in the head during a public him praising Hitler. The Anti-Defamation League lists a Jewish campaign appearance in Tucson, triggering a In a terrorist attack in the West Bank Jew- JTA launches its online digital news ar- group, Jewish Voices for Peace, on its list of national outpouring of sympathy and prayer. ish settlement of Itamar, five members of the chive, for the first time making widely avail- top 10 anti-Israel organizations in America. First responders later credit the emergency Fogel family are massacred as they sleep. Two able on the Internet more than 90 years of A month after the collapse of renewed bandage colloquially known as “the Israeli ban- Palestinians in their late teens are arrested; English-language Jewish reporting. peace talks with Israel, Palestinian Authority dage” with saving lives in the aftermath of the one is found guilty by an Israeli military court. In a controversy over the Israel positions of officials begin talking publicly about declar- shooting that left six dead and 13 wounded. The other suspect is awaiting trial. Jewish playwright Tony Kushner, the City Uni- ing statehood unilaterally. Newly leaked maps detailing Palestinian and Israel’s Navy intercepts a ship laden with versity of New York first cancels, then reinstates, Packages containing explosive devices are Israeli negotiations over the West Bank in 2008 weapons bound for Gaza. plans to grant Kushner an honorary degree. mailed from Yemen to Jewish institutions in show how close the two sides were on some Jewish and Israel groups begin sending aid Capping more than three decades of le- the Chicago area but are intercepted before issues—and how far apart they were on oth- to Japan as it struggles to respond to a massive gal drama, a Munich court rules that former they reach their intended targets. ers. With Lebanon in turmoil and a Hezbollah- earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis. Ohio autoworker John Demjanjuk, 91, was a November backed prime minister poised to take power in American Jewish contractor Alan Gross is Nazi war criminal. sentenced to 15 years in prison in Cuba for Thousands of Arabs storm Israel’s borders In the Republican Party’s near sweep of Beirut, Israel is concerned at the prospect of a subversive activities. The United States says from Syria, Lebanon and elsewhere to mark the 2010 midterm elections, six Jewish mem- tectonic shift in the regional balance. Gross was in the country to help Cuba’s Jews. the Nakba—the anniversary of the “catastro- bers of the U.S. House of Representatives A car bomb explodes in central Jerusalem, phe” of Israel’s founding. Caught unprepared, lose their seats. February Massive street protests drive Egyptian killing one. Israeli forces hold the crowds back and more The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Claims President Hosni Mubarak, an ally of Israel Groups on the Jewish left express outrage than a dozen Arabs are killed. Conference disclose that they have discovered and the United States, from power. Coming after a Knesset subcommittee votes to convene The arrest of Dominique Strauss-Kahn in thousands of fraudulent claims, including on the heels of a similar turn of events in Tu- hearings on J Street, the Washington-based New York on sexual assault charges represents ones filed by Claims Conference employees; nisia, Mubarak’s fall raises hopes that a wave lobby that calls itself “pro-Israel, pro-peace.” a particularly harsh blow for many in France’s 17 people are arrested. By mid-2011, more NGOs condemn the hearing as part of an Is- Jewish community. Law enforcement officials than $50 million in fraudulent claims had raeli government campaign to target NGOs would later report that major questions have been found. critical of Israel. emerged about the credibility of his accuser, but A review panel established by Israel’s Chief Academy Award-winning actress Eliza- not before he resigns his post at the International Rabbinate threatens to invalidate thousands beth Taylor, who maintained a support for Monetary Fund. His planned candidacy for the of conversions performed under the auspic- Israel after converting to Judaism in the late French presidency is considered dead. es of the Israel Defense Forces. The Knesset 1950s, dies.[url=”http://www.jta.org/news/ San Francisco approves a ballot measure moves to safeguard the IDF conversions. article/2011/03/28/3086594/not-considered- for November to outlaw circumcision of mi- Israel allows another 8,000 Falash Mura a-jew-sofias-jewish-community-president- nors in the city. A judge later strikes the ban from Ethiopia to immigrate. alexander-oscar-aims-for-change” Protests from the ballot, saying the city has no author- WikiLeaks’ release of thousands of classi- sweeping the Arab world spread to Syria. ity to ban circumcision. fied U.S. documents shows Arab leaders ex- of democracy has been unleashed and fears— President Obama delivers a major speech pressing grave concern about Iran’s nuclear especially in Israel—that what is being called April on Mideast policy in which he states that intentions and urging the United States to the Arab Spring will end with radical Islamic Richard Goldstone, author of the contro- Israeli-Palestinian negotiations should be curb Iran’s nuclear program. forces in power. versial U.N. report on the 2009 Gaza War that based upon “1967 lines with mutually agreed The National Museum of American Jewish U.S. Rep. Jane Harman, a tough-talking accused Israel of war crimes, withdraws the swaps.” The formulation sparks a fiery debate History opens in Philadelphia with a gala head- Jewish Democrat from California, suddenly central tenet of that report in an Op-Ed piece in over whether the president was simply reiter- lined by Vice President Joe Biden, comedian decides to quit Congress in a sign of the pre- the Washington Post. That prompts an unsuc- ating longtime U.S. policy or pressuring Israel. Jerry Seinfeld and entertainer Bette Midler. carious position of the Democratic Party’s cessful drive by Israel and its supporters to void centrist bloc. the report formally in the United Nations. Continued on next page 22 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 continued from previous page Soon after, the president holds a tense news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benja- min Netanyahu. Both leaders speak to thou- sands of pro-Israel activists at the annual AIPAC policy conference. Later, Netanyahu receives multiple ovations during remarks to a joint session of Congress. After a deadly tornado strikes Joplin, Mo., the Jewish community sends help. In the Chasidic village of New Square, N.Y., Mon. Closed • Tue., Wed. & Thur. - Lunch 11:30-2:30; Dinner 5-10 Fri.- Lunch 11:30-2:30; Dinner 5-11 • Sat. - Lunch 11:30-3; Dinner 3-11 an arson attack that leaves a Jewish man se- Special Sunday Brunch - 11:00- 3 verely burned raises questions about religious violence in the name of fealty to a rebbe.

JUNE Make your next mailer, One of the most hawkish pro-Israel brochure, invitation or Democrats in Congress, New Yorker Antho- any design project a ny Weiner, is engulfed in scandal over lying about illicit messages sent on Twitter. Eventu- ally he resigns. Yale University shutters its Initiative for the Interdisciplinary Study of Anti-Sem- itism, saying it failed to meet certain aca- demic criteria. Critics, however, claim the program was killed for shining a light on by Dennis Platte Muslim anti-Semitism. 734.483.9619 Cottage cheese, a national staple in Israel [email protected] that has seen its price rising steadily, becomes the focus of a consumer revolt and a symbol of frustration with the high cost of living in the Jewish state. Later, the protests broaden and focus on the shortage of affordable housing in the country, with mass demonstrations and tent cities popping up in Tel Aviv and elsewhere. JULY The lower house of the Dutch parliament passes a ban on kosher slaughter, spurred on by the unlikely convergence between animal rights activists and the country’s far-right, anti-Muslim movement. After a flotilla of ships to Gaza fails to launch from Greece, protesters announce a planned “fly-in” to Israel to protest its treat- ment of the Palestinians. Jewish communities in New York and Houston are rocked, respectively, by the murder of 8-year-old Leiby Kletzky, who was abducted walking home from summer day camp in Borough Park, Brooklyn, and a car crash that instantly killed Josh and Robin Berry, 41 and 40, and left two of their three children paralyzed from the waist down. For the first time since 1945, the Mac- cabi Games—the so-called Jewish Olympics in Europe—are held in a German-speaking country. Maccabi officials said the crowd made up the largest gathering of Jews in Vi- enna since the Holocaust. Israel passes a law that penalizes those seeking to boycott Israel or West Bank Jew- ish settlements. American Jewish groups slam the law as undemocratic. As media mogul Ruport Murdoch’s News of the World is engulfed in a phone-hacking scandal and shuts down, some Jews worry that a pro-Israel voice in the media will be muted. British Jewish singer Amy Winehouse, age 27, dies. Anders Behring Breivik, a Norwegian anti-Muslim extremist who wrote a mani- festo expressing sympathy for Israel’s plight, bombs a government building in Oslo and goes on a killing spree on the nearby island of Utoya, killing 77. n

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 23 I Israel

Alarm: Impact in 15 seconds Old soldier: Israeli reflects on two WJN staff writers decades of civilian and military life srael’s Home Front Command By Michael ripstein has distributed emergency hand- Ibooks to citizens on how to shel- MAZKERET BATYA, Israel (Tablet)—In 20 “Mah itcha, gever,” he greeted me—“What’s ter from rocket attack—including years of military service, I thought I’d seen all the up?” in Hebrew slang—and we exchanged hugs. chemical weapons assault. During crappy training camps the Israeli army had to of- I asked about his kids (he has seven) and his emergencies, an alarm system issues fer. But there I was, early one morning last spring, work, then we headed off to sign out the various different warning times to all areas walking from the glorified gravel pit that passed kits we’d carry for the following two weeks. of Israel, alerting residents as to the for a parking lot at the Southern Command On the way to the supply hut, I met the long- amount of time they have to enter a training base, under the unforgiving Negev sun, haired guy I know only as Chuck, because in secure space from the moment a mis- beginning another reserve deployment in the Is- the army you get to know people by their nick- sile is fired at them until it impacts. rael Defense Forces. And since I’d just passed my names. Chuck had just gotten back from a five- Families in Sderot, the western Negev 40th birthday, the tour I was starting was quite month trek across India and Nepal, which is par community that has suffered thou- possibly my last. for the course for the under-25 Israeli soldier. sands of rocket attacks by Hamas and If it had been a normal Monday morning for There followed another round of salutations other Gaza-based factions, have 15 me, I would have been checking e-mails, attend- and general inquiries. seconds. People in Be’er Sheva, a city ing sales meetings, writing proposals or doing When I first volunteered to join the IDF as of about 200,000 which has fallen any number of the activities associated with my an idealistic 19-year-old, more than 20 years ago, within range of terrorists’ Russian- job at a software company in the high-tech indus- I quickly realized that I was entering a different designed, Iranian-built Grad rockets, trial park of Ranaana, north of Tel Aviv. On this world with different rules than civilian life and have 60 seconds. Many of the Israelis day, however, I was clad in green, wiping the oil that this new order governing daily existence who were killed and maimed by the off my rifle, squaring away gear and trudging off would last until the day service ended. The re- Gaza rocket salvos that followed a to some range to make sure that both man and serves, or miluim, aren’t much different, except coordinated terror attack on Israeli machine were in functioning order. The smells that the citizen-to-soldier transition is so sudden vacationers near the resort of Eilat of cordite, grease and diesel fumes accompanied and shocking, it’s nearly violent. The eight weeks’ last month were scrambling to reach the switch—from citizen to soldier—which, de- notice you get before arriving in camp never shelter. In those barrages, Israel’s spite having made it some dozen times in the last seems to be enough time to prepare. Work, fami- “Iron Dome” defense against incom- two decades, never ceased to amaze me. ly, holidays, unfinished business or errands—ev- ing missiles proved effective, but imperfect. Hoping to overwhelm Israel’s defenses, terrorists— As I arrived, I saw Matanya, the religious erything gets put on hold. There’s never a “good particularly those of the Iranian-backed “Popular Resistance Committee”—massed volleys of kibbutznik with whom I’d done basic train- time” for a call-up. missiles against Israeli communities and some got through. n ing in 1990. Continued on next page A primer on Palestinian statehood By uriel Heilman NEW YORK (JTA)—On September 20, when statehood would not carry the force of law, the has more to gain by going to the international What’s the plan for the day after the U.N. vote? the annual session of the U.N. General As- passage of such a resolution would be highly arena—or both. It’s not clear. The Palestinian leadership sembly opens, Palestinian Authority President symbolic and represent a significant public re- Abbas essentially is gambling that the U.N. doesn’t seem to have a plan. The Palestinian Mahmoud Abbas is expected to ask U.N. Secre- lations defeat for Israel. move will give him more leverage vis-a-vis Is- public is expected to stage mass demonstra- tary-General Ban Ki-moon to present a Pales- Is there any benefit short of full statehood rael, making it more difficult for the Israelis to tions. Israel is preparing for a host of worst-case tinian request for statehood recognition to the recognition that the Palestinians can obtain stick to their current negotiating positions and scenarios, including violence. U.N. Security Council. at the United Nations? establishing the pre-1967 lines as the basis for If the United Nations does endorse Palestin- The long-anticipated request will kick off a Yes. The Palestinians already have non- negotiations. ian statehood in some form, it will be seen as a chain of events that some analysts are warning member permanent observer status at the Unit- What tools does Israel have to respond to the public relations victory for the Palestinians. But could result in a new paroxysm of violence in ed Nations, which they obtained in 1974. Palestinian bid? in the absence of progress on the ground in the the Middle East. This time, the General Assembly could vote Israel’s strategy now is trying to persuade as Middle East, a U.N. vote could set off popular Here is a guide to what might happen, and to recognize Palestine as a non-member U.N. many nations as possible—as well as the Pales- Palestinian protests against Israel that could es- what it might mean. state, which would put Palestinian U.N. mem- tinians—that a U.N. vote favoring Palestinian calate into another Palestinian intifada. What do the Palestinians want the United bership on par with that of the Vatican. While statehood would set back the peace track. The No one knows what another Palestinian in- Nations to recognize? being a non-member state wouldn’t give the argument is that it would make it less likely that tifada will look like. It’s possible that soon after The Palestinians want recognition of the Palestinians much more than they have now as Israeli-Palestinian negotiations would succeed, a U.N. vote, Palestinians will march on Israeli state of Palestine in the entirety of the West a non-state observer, it would be another sym- forcing Israel to dig in its heels. settlements and military positions much like Bank, Gaza and eastern Jerusalem. The West bolic victory. Beyond that, Israeli experts have warned, Is- Palestinians in Syria and Lebanon marched on Bank—an area controlled by Jordan from the If the Palestinians can get a two-thirds ma- rael may consider the unilateral Palestinian bid Israel’s borders in mid-May to commemorate end of Israel’s War of Independence in 1949 un- jority in support of statehood in the General As- for U.N. recognition an abrogation of the Oslo Nakba Day—the day marking the anniversary til it was captured by Israel in the 1967 Six-Day sembly , they also could put forward a so-called Accords, which stipulated that the framework of the “catastrophe” of Israel’s founding. War—includes lands on which Jewish settle- Uniting for Peace resolution. This nonbinding, for resolution of the conflict be negotiations Or a U.N. vote could unleash a new wave of ments now sit. Eastern Jerusalem was effectively advisory resolution could provide legal cover to between the two parties. If the Oslo Accords, violence, with attacks and counterattacks that annexed by Israel, but the international com- nations wanting to treat Palestine as a state— which provides the basis for the limited au- destroy the relative calm that has held between munity views it as occupied territory. In total, for example, allowing sanctions and lawsuits tonomy the Palestinians currently have in the Israel and West Bank Palestinians since the sec- more than 600,000 Jews reside in eastern Jeru- against Israel to go forward. The Uniting for West Bank, are nullified, Israel may re-occupy ond intifada waned in 2004. salem and the West Bank. Peace option was first used to circumvent a So- portions of the West Bank from which its forces The outbreak of violence, however, could viet veto in the Security Council against action have withdrawn, end security cooperation with undermine Palestinian interests. In the relative What’s the legal process for becoming a state? absence of Palestinian terrorism in recent years, The U.N. Security Council’s approval is re- during the Korean War, and it was employed the Palestinian Authority and withhold hun- the Palestinians have managed to get increased quired to become a U.N. member state. The during the 1980s to protect countries that sanc- dreds of millions of dollars in tax money it col- economic assistance, established upgraded dip- United States, which is one of the 15-member tioned apartheid South Africa from being sued lects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority. lomatic ties with nations throughout the world, council’s five permanent, veto-wielding mem- under international trade laws. What are some of the other possible negative rallied more global support for their cause, and bers, has promised to veto a Palestinian state- Why are the Palestinians seeking statehood consequences for the Palestinians of U.N. seen a considerable rise in their GDP and qual- hood resolution. recognition from the United Nations rather statehood recognition? ity of life in the West Bank. They don’t want to The U.S. Congress has threatened to ban as- Is there a way for the Palestinians to overcome than negotiating directly with Israel? throw that all away. sistance to the Palestinian Authority if it pursues a U.S. veto? The Palestinian leadership has eschewed That may leave the Palestinians and Israel recognition of statehood at the United Nations. Not in the Security Council. However, the renewed peace talks with Israel, either because back where they started before talk of U.N. rec- That could cost the Palestinians as much as Palestinians still could seek statehood recog- Abbas believes that talks with Israeli Prime ognition began: at a standstill. n nition at the U.N. General Assembly. While a Minister Benjamin Netanyahu won’t produce $500 million annually, potentially crippling the General Assembly vote in favor of Palestinian desired results or because Abbas believes he Palestinian government. 24 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 Old soldier, from previous page

The day before this last deployment, my was one of just a handful of American-born sol- night-vision equipment, I watched the thermal as a reservist, I was a husband and father, and 9-year-old daughter asked me, “Abba, why do diers. I was also the first on my block of suburban streaks of Scud and Patriot missiles over Israel’s call-ups demanded a different kind of collateral. you have to go the army?” Long Island to postpone college to do what I saw northern skies. “What the f-—did you expect,” My family grew to five since my first reserve tour. I’m sure my response was similar to that of as my part for Israel. I was a brash 19-year-old I remember asking myself, “intercamp hockey Every once in a while my platoon would throw the husbands and fathers who were joining me and, in the days before cell phones, I remember games? Little League?” a barbecue and invite the soldiers’ families—the in the Negev. I told her we went so that our kids fully disconnecting from home to immerse my- After my service finished, I returned to Long wives and kids who have to endure the homefront could feel safe when they went to school or soccer self in the new reality of the army. I remember Island and heard stories of frat parties from side of this disruption to life’s daily routine. But practice, so that our friends and families could sit thinking at the time that as a Jew I should live in childhood friends who had gone off to college each time I was called to make the switch from around their Shabbat dinners on Friday nights, Israel. And if I was going to live in Israel, then I instead of the IDF. I found it hard to relate. I father and worker to gun-toting soldier, I was and so that the nation could throw itself into the was supposed to do my part. went on to Yeshiva University in New York, taken back to a simpler time, when the clarity— mundane. We went, I said, because, sadly, the state Many of my Long Island friends had gradu- bounced around a couple of jobs, got married or naivete—of youth made the world seem less of affairs in our little corner of the world made it ated from yeshiva high schools in the United and ended up a day trader in Miami. complicated. And, to be honest, the more knotty necessary for there to be people who were willing States, and like them I had decided to take a year In late 2000, taking an offer to set up a home and family life became, the more welcome and able to do what we do. My daughter and two off to go learn things in Israel. In truth, most of us day-trading office in Jerusalem, my wife the call from the miluim became. sons nodded their heads and said, “We’ll miss were more interested in happy hour than Tosafot, and I moved from Miami to Israel with our As a Jew, I felt it was a privilege to have had op- you, Abba,” with a stoicism that surprised me. the medieval commentaries on the Talmud. But year-old son. The first reserve call-up came portunities to serve the Jewish state. But on some In my reserve company—“A” Platoon, or somewhere along the way, an idea began to take about a year-and-a-half later, for Operation sort of psychological level, each call-up preceded Pelugah Alef, of the 360th Battalion, 10th Bri- form: that I was walking in the ancient home- Defensive Shield, in spring 2002. Following a cathartic experience that allowed some perspec- gade—there are software engineers, students, land of my forefathers and that I had an oppor- that deployment, which I spent mostly in the tive on the everyday noise and nonsense that can cab drivers, teachers, tour guides, accountants, tunity to physically contribute to the defense of Kalkilyah-Nablus area of the West Bank do- deafen and blind us to what’s really important in construction workers, plumbers, factory work- the modern state of Israel. Basically, I viewed my ing checkpoint work, the call-ups continued life. And, of course, there was the closet redneck ers, lawyers and just about every other vocation. physical contribution to my people as part of my to come roughly once a year. They brought me in me, that kid from Long Island, the only one There are religious soldiers who wear kippot religious responsibilities. From that ideological to engage in activities that are as far from the from my high school who got to tear ass around and daven three times a day, soldiers who see crossroad, it was a short walk down Jerusalem’s civilian day-to-day as possible. I went on late- the desert in a 60-ton tank or fire off hundreds of their religion as a tradition and secular soldiers. Jaffa Street to the enlistment office. My great-un- night raids into Arab towns outside Ramal- rounds from automatic weapons. They come from the cities, the kibbutzim and cles, World War II U.S. Army veterans, consoled lah to nab wanted terrorists. I searched cars In the army, what’s fun and what’s not fun is anywhere in between. They are Ashkenazi, Sep- my grandmother and parents over what they saw at checkpoints throughout the West Bank. I measured differently from in everyday life. There’s hardic, Yemenite, Ethiopian and Russian. They as their loss. “It’s a good thing for the boy,” one of rode shotgun during border patrols along no denying that there’s something primordially voted across the political spectrum: Likud, Na- the uncles said. “So long as there’s no war.” That electrified fences and participated in armored exhilarating in blowing up s---, especially when tional Union and Meretz. summer Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. maneuvers in the sand dunes of the South and compared to filling out Excel spreadsheets. But among the soldiers here, I am the only I was soon sitting on a cold, wind-swept the mountains of the North. one who grew up on the south shore of Long mountain deep inside what was then Israel’s secu- In 1990, I imagined myself an unburdened Continued on page 37 Island, New York When I first entered the IDF, I rity zone in Southern Lebanon. Using my tank’s lone soldier living the bachelor life off base. But

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Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 25 I Israel

Just how expensive is it to live in Israel? By Jessica Steinberg JERUSALEM (JTA)—What began in Israel in make $5,500 to $6,500 per month, and top as- June as a Facebook-driven rebellion against the sociates earn about $8,571 per month, according rising cost of cottage cheese, then morphed in to Dudi Zalmanovitsh, who runs the Tel Aviv law July into tent encampments protesting soaring consulting firm GlawBAL. Technology profes- real estate costs, has since turned into a full-scale sionals are some of the highest paid in Israel, with Israeli social movement against the high cost of technical writers and software engineers earning living in the Jewish state. between $2,500 and $3,500 a month, and manag- From Tel Aviv’s tent-filled Rothschild Bou- ers making upward of $10,000 a month. levard to marches in Beersheva, hundreds of Doctors, most of whom work at clin- thousands of Israelis have participated in one ics and hospitals, earn $6,000 to $7,000 a protest or another. The movement’s targets have month, unless they also have a private practice. expanded from housing and cheese prices to ev- Transportation erything from the costs of child care and gas— With a tax rate of 78 percent on new cars, a not to mention salaries. lack of competition in the import market and high All this begs the question: Just how expen- auto insurance costs —not to mention the price sive is it to live in Israel? A close examination of of gas —owning a car can be one of the most ex- some key metrics show that compared to the pensive things for an Israeli. A Honda Civic, which United States and Europe, Israeli costs of liv- has a sticker price of approximately $16,000 in the ing are a mixed bag. Salaries are lower, but so United States, costs $33,000 in Israel. Gas costs are health care costs. Consumer goods and ser- more than $8 per gallon. vices costs are nearly double those in the United As most Israelis earn about one-third of States, and owning a car can run about six times their American counterparts, Israelis may spend as much relative to one’s salary. more than six times as much of their monthly So how do Israelis make it? Israeli retailers salaries on car ownership as the average Ameri- and banks offer easy credit on everything from can. The alternative —public transportation big-ticket items like summer vacations to ev- —is cheap by comparison in Israel, though the eryday purchases like groceries; all can be paid network of mass transit is much less developed in monthly installments. The result is that many here than in America or Europe. A small but Israelis are perennially in debt and are increas- growing number of Israelis commute by train, ingly frustrated by their inability to cover costs but most need to take a bus to complete their with their monthly paychecks. Here’s a closer commute. Buses are subsidized and therefore look at some of the costs of living in Israel. relatively cheap. Within cities, bus fare costs Housing about $1.51 per ride or $65 for a monthly pass. The most expensive and desirable places to live Health care in Israel are in the center of the country, where the Israel’s socialized health care system is con- vast majority of the population resides and works. sidered among the world’s best, and taxes pay Is there such a thing as a non-surgical facelift ? According to figures from the real estate com- the lion’s share of costs. Based on figures from pany RE/MAX Israel, apartment prices in central the National Insurance Institute, the health care Tel Aviv run $5,714 to $7,142 per square meter. In costs deducted from the average paycheck are Jerusalem, the peripheral neighborhoods of East between 3 percent and 5.5 percent, estimates Talpiot and Kiryat Hayovel offer housing from ULTHERAPY is a non-surgical Dr. Michael Cohen, who runs an HMO in the $4,285 to $5,714 per square meter, while prices in coastal city of Netanya. procedure that uses the energy the tonier neighborhoods of Baka, the German With a system of universal health care run by of ultrasound to gently heat Colony and Rechavia range from $7,000 to $8,571 private corporations, all citizens are entitled to the the tissue below the skin per square meter. same uniform package. Whether self-employed or without cutting or disrupting That means that in Baka or the German Col- employed by a company, every citizen pays a basic the surface of the skin. The ony, a typical two-bedroom apartment starts at health insurance rate to one of the four HMOs, $428,571, according to Alyssa Friedland, a broker skin's response to this energy which are heavily regulated by the government for RE/MAX. In the peripheral neighborhoods, and subsidized. stimulates the growth of new some of which are built on territory captured For Israelis who need to visit the doctor, require collagen to visibly lift and from Jordan in the 1967 Six-Day War, a two- fertility treatment or visit the emergency room, the tighten aging skin. The proce- bedroom apartment runs for about $343,000. extra costs are minimal. Medications are cheaper dure takes only 60 MINUTES According to RE/MAX figures, two-bedroom in Israel than in the United States because they are apartments in Beersheva, Haifa, Hadera and OR LESS and provides dramatic subsidized by the HMOs. Many Israelis choose to Afula cost between $143,000 and $286,000. expand their coverage with private health insur- improvement for wrinkles and Mortgage rates are about 4.5 percent, accord- ance that offers more access to private care or more skin laxity of the brow, cheeks, ing to Friedland, but the required down payment comprehensive coverage. Private insurance costs a lower face and neck. is usually about 40 percent. “Young couples are fraction of what it costs in the States. “The working getting the money from their parents because they poor are much better off here because if someone For more information, before don’t typically have savings like that,” she said. gets sick, they still get full hospital treatment for what and after pictures and a video As the economist Daniel Doron noted recently in would be very expensive in the U.S.,” Cohen said. introduction of Ultherapy visit: The Wall Street Journal, “A small apartment can cost Taxes No surgery. No scars. NeckLiftNoSurgery.com the average Israeli worker 12 years in annual salary.” Israel is more like Europe than America on or call today to schedule your Salaries taxes. The top rate of income tax is 45 percent (it No downtime. one-on-one consultation: In Israel, the average salary is about $2,572 was 50 percent until 2003). The value added tax, per month, and the average income for a tfamily or VAT, which amounts to a sales tax, is 16 per- That is the beauty of Ulthera. 734-712-2323 with two wage earners is approximately $3,428 per cent. That’s considered regressive because rich month, according to Israel’s Central Bureau of Sta- and poor pay the same rate. The average Israeli On the campus of tistics. Teachers and nurses earn abound $1,666 a Paul Izenberg, MD pays an income tax rate of 20.5 percent. The top month, making Israeli teachers’ salaries among the David Hing, MD St. Joseph Mercy Hospital 1 percent of salaried workers, who earn an average Richard Beil, MD Reichert Health Area Suite 5001 lowest in the world, according to a recent report of $19,000 per month, pay a 40 percent income Daniel Sherick, MD Aesthetics Suite 5008 by the international Organization for Economic tax rate. The top 1 percent of the self-employed Ian Lytle, MD 5333 McAuley Drive • Ann Arbor Cooperation and Development (OECD). —the super-rich who gross an average of $121,000 Business managers, computer engineers and per month —pay 26 percent in income tax. Offices in Brighton, Chelsea, Dearborn and Saline NeckLiftNoSurgery.com lawyers have some of the highest median salaries in Israel. A lawyer with five years’ experience can continued on next page 26 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 I World Jewry

European Seminar on Jewish Culture With $52M investment, German city By Alex Weisler AVIGNON, France (JTA)—The roomful of art- works, told the Avignon gathering about her un- banks future on unearthing Jewish past ists, musicians and cultural leaders let their imagi- successful campaigns to secure funding from her By Alex Weisler nations run wild. local organized community. But, she said, the up- COLOGNE, Germany (JTA)—This city in The massive project to unearth Cologne’s Unencumbered by budgetary considerations side is that it gives her theater company a greater western Germany is banking its future on its medieval Jewish quarter began four years ago. or practical concerns, they dreamed up a theater degree of artistic freedom. “We don’t have to stay Jewish past. The city had begun excavating its past decades partnership between Budapest and Bordeaux, a with the old tradition,” Schon said. “I think our But at present, the investment is exacting a ago, but until recently the focus was on its Ro- traveling photo exhibit on the idea of “kosher spac- responsibility is to give the artist the freedom to heavy price: $52 million, to be exact. man quarter. Archeologists working on the es” and a host of other ideas aimed at pooling the create whatever he wants to create and not be Following a divisive decades-long battle, Co- Roman quarter actually threw away Jewish ma- cultural capital of Europe’s Jewish communities. afraid of the results.” logne’s municipal government voted recently to terial that they had unearthed. But in the late Last month’s European Seminar on Jewish The fact that many of the seminar’s attend- allocate that sum toward the construction of a 1980s the calls began for excavating the Jewish Culture and Innovation brought participants ees were not Jewish communal professionals new museum focused on the city’s medieval quarter, and in the 1990s some archeological from more than a dozen European countries but rather from more independent, grass-roots Jewish quarter. Its centerpiece will be the prod- work was done. For a long time, pedestrians to this medieval city in Provence. The three-day initiatives was a positive aspect of the conference, uct of a massive excavation project that began could peer down through a glass pyramid on conference was timed to coincide with Avignon’s Izcovich told the crowd. “All over Europe what’s in 2007 in the middle of the city, on the square a city square and see the medieval mikvah, or famed monthlong summertime theater festival. happening—what’s growing like ‘champignons’ in front of City Hall. ritual bath, that Cologne’s Jews had used hun- In efforts to strengthen European Jewish life, everywhere,” Izcovich said, using the French word For years the project had been dogged by dreds of years ago. there in an increasing tendency to focus on niche for “mushrooms,” “are Jewish initiatives that rec- opponents who said the country didn’t need But the real work on the Jewish quarter did appeals, said Mario Izcovich, director of pan-Eu- ognize that not everything needs to be provided another monument dedicated to the Jewish not begin until 2007. Archeologists early on ropean programs for the American Jewish Joint by the formal Jewish community.” Finding com- past or complained about the disruption that uncovered evidence of a thriving merchants’ Distribution Committee, which co-sponsored mon ground across diverse Jewish communities the project would create in Cologne, Germany’s quarter where the Jews lived. They unearthed the conference. “This connects with the time we was one of the seminar’s most important take- fourth-largest city. a synagogue that had been in use since the year are living in,” Izcovich said “We have different aways, said attendee Stefan Sablic, a cantor from But with Cologne’s decision to fund the 780 and the home of a goldsmith; both will be niches and different targets and different interests, the Serbian capital of Belgrade. museum, adding to the $18 million already showcased in the new museum. and that’s the way we now approach Jewish life.” “The value is that you get inspired to work allocated by the state government of North At its peak in medieval times, the Jewish Participants in the seminar, the first of its kind, further,” Sablic said. “You’re not alone, and you Rhine Westphalia, the city has made a decisive quarter housed about 1,000 people—the size came from Jewish hubs like London, Budapest can link to the others—there’s a whole world of choice: to embrace its Jewish past to attract of a small German city. It was the oldest Jewish and Paris, but also from smaller communities Jewish people working on similar topics.” future tourists. community in Europe north of the Alps, and like Zurich, Belgrade and Copenhagen. In addi- Jette Zylber, who coordinates cultural program- “A city like Cologne, you always have to often enjoyed special privileges—such as when tion to JCC professionals, representatives of more ming for the Danish Jewish community, echoed think about what you can present to bring new the Roman emperor Constantine decreed in outside-the-box Jewish cultural initiatives were his sentiments. “A lot of energy is cooking now. It’s tourists,” said Cologne City Councilman Ralph the year 321 that Jews could be elected to the well represented in Avignon. Judith Scheer, chair- like being in a melting pot of new ideas,” she said. Sterck, who voted in favor of the project, which city council. woman of Salon Vienna, a monthly gathering Avignon was just the first step for a campaign passed by a two-thirds majority in the 90-mem- When Jews were targeted during the Cru- that uses Jewish texts and themes as the basis for of niche conferences sponsored by the European ber council. “We are proud of what we have for sades, Cologne officials often protected the Jews artistic exploration and philosophical discussion, Association of Jewish Community Centers. Next history, so we want to show the world.” by hiding them in fortresses and safe houses. In spoke about the struggles she faced in getting on the schedule is a weekend focusing on volun- The museum’s projected revenue was among 1349, a pogrom in the midst of the Black Plague the established Austrian Jewish community to teering to be held in Brussels in December. the factors that prompted City Council mem- killed many of the city’s Jews. About 20,000 Jews acknowledge her group’s appeal. Scheer said the Smadar Bar-Akiva, executive director of the bers to support the allocation, he said, but there lived in Cologne immediately before the Holo- focus should be on creating programs that engage World Confederation of Jewish Community Cen- was also the element of embracing Cologne’s caust. About 40 percent emigrated before they unaffiliated members of the Jewish community. ters, said conferences that focus on what it means to Jewish heritage. All over Europe, from Girona, could be deported to concentration camps. “The fed-up-ness is everywhere,” Scheer said, de- be Jewish and European—and not just Jewish in a Spain, to Vilnius, Lithuania, cities and countries In addition to focusing on Jewish history, scribing the alienation of young European Jews global sense—are key for strengthening communities are making similar decisions in the hopes that the museum also will spotlight the ruins of pre- from their organized Jewish communities. across the continent. “It’s very important that they feel becoming a Jewish travel destination will bring vious city halls and of Cologne’s Roman years. Edina Schon, the producer of Budapest’s there is a European cultural message,” she said. “Now in tourism dollars. Artifacts on display will range from Roman Golem Theater, which specializes in avant-garde the challenge is to continue the momentum.” n In Germany, much of the effort at memo- bricks and pottery to a 1920s seder plate found rializing Jewish history has focused on the among the ashes from World War II. Holocaust era, and Cologne has three other Tourists already can view the excavation on Continued from previous page museums concentrating at least partly on tours offered every Friday, or by peeking through World War II-era history. The new project is holes in the fencing surrounding the archeo- Education turn 3, they can take advantage of the public school spotlighting a period when Jewish life thrived logical dig. Schutte says the new museum will Education is one area in which Israelis pay con- system and day care centers that charge as little as in the city—the 1400s. combine forces with the existing Praetorium, a siderably less than Americans. $257 a month for a six-day, six-hour program. The museum, which plans to open in 2015, former Roman palace, and provide visitors with Tuition at Israel’s renowned public universi- Food will offer a new way of looking at German Jew- a multi-era approach to Cologne’s past. “It’s the ties is about $2,714 per year, thanks in large part to Israel’s social protest movement began with an ish history, said Georg Quander, Cologne’s dep- historical greeting card of Cologne because we government subsidies. At Israel’s lesser-known pri- investigative report by the Globes business daily on uty mayor for cultural affairs. It was Quander can show two millennia,” he said. Schutte plans vate colleges, tuition costs about $8,571 each year. food prices. Globes found that prices for basic food who lobbied the City Council to provide the for the museum to be technologically advanced, Compared with other developed countries, Israel products were two to three times higher in Israeli funding for the planned museum. with wall displays to unlock special content for ranks eighth out of the OECD’s 26 countries for stores than in other Western countries. “History is always an exchange between visitors with smartphones and large print op- tuition rates. Those paying tuition for Jewish day An 8-ounce container of cottage cheese costs several cultures,” he said. “I think it’s very im- tions available for the elderly. school in America would save a bundle in Israel. $1.68; a pound of hummus costs $4.54; 2 liters of portant to understand this. Maybe it’s more im- Since the City Council voted to fund the Public schools —whether secular, Modern Ortho- orange juice —in a country that exports oranges portant than to separate them.” Sven Schutte, museum, opposition to the project has faded. dox or haredi Orthodox —are free. However, par- —costs $6.54; 2 pounds of rice costs $1.94; and the leader of the Cologne excavation and muse- One future neighbor, the Wallraf-Richartz art ents must pay service fees for field trips and special a 13-ounce container of Israeli Osem soup nuts um project, concurred. “If you concentrate just museum, had expressed concerns about a large events, are responsible for busing costs and must costs $4.54 —more than it costs in American stores on the Jews in the Nazi times, you put the Jews new structure obstructing its views and the flow pay for books. that import the soup nuts from Israel. A 6-ounce in a corner that they never have been in,” he told of pedestrians across the square, but is now col- The growing number of semi-private schools can of Israeli-made sunscreen spray can cost ap- JTA. “To show all this rich history is something laborating with the Jewish archeological mu- that offer special pluralistic, democratic or reli- proximately $40. “Prices have gone above what the which should be done.” seum to offer tourists a two-for-one ticket. gious curricula charge annual tuitions ranging middle class and weaker classes can afford,” said Schutte, who is not Jewish, said he is glad the Samuel Gruber, who runs a blog dedicated from $800 to $1,600, and boarding schools charge Rami Levy, who owns 22 supermarkets nation- museum will focus on how Jews have been inte- to Jewish art and monuments, and recently $3,000 to $5,000 per year. wide. He attributed the rise to Israeli supermarket grated into Cologne city life for centuries rather attended a colloquium in Cologne about the Because the traditional Israeli primary school chains that collude to set prices. than excluded from it. “If you look at Jewish project there, said the excavation in the city is day is short, often ending before 2 p.m., many “I started my business with the goal of selling to museums, even Berlin, you see a separate his- monumental. “The extraordinary finds of the parents shell out money for afternoon childcare my customers at wholesale prices,” said Levy, who tory and you can think that the Jews come from excavations make the creation of some sort of programs or afterschool activities. The most ex- started with a stall in Jerusalem’s open-air Machane the moon, that they were not an integral part,” museum essential. One can’t just cover this all n pensive part of child rearing may be day care for Yehudah market. “I wanted them to be able to buy he said. “This is a site where you can learn how up again,” said Gruber. the under-3 set. Some day care centers cost $630 a what they needed and still have money left at the to live together with other people.” month for private toddler day care. Once children end of the month.” n Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 27 I American Jewry

In California farming town, a Latino congregation commits to Judaism By Roberto Loiederman LOS ANGELES (The Jewish Journal) —Lo- If he did, indeed, have Jewish ancestors, de la ria, a Reform congregation. cated in the northern part of Santa Barbara Pena was determined to learn what the religion “These people are also Children of Israel,” County, but as distant from chic Santa Barbara meant, so he became more and more involved the rabbi told the congregants. as one can imagine, Santa Maria is a blue-col- with Judaism. Nevertheless, de la Pena and those with him lar town dotted with fast-food and barbecue “I put Jewish holy objects in my house— felt uncomfortable, largely because the service joints. In recent years its population, at least a menorah, holiday decorations,” he said. “I was in English. half of which is Latino, has mushroomed to stopped eating pork. I started to light candles Eventually, with the support of his fam- 100,000 fueled by agribusiness—including on Friday night. I was still in the Pentecostal ily and friends, de la Pena founded the Beth vineyards and wineries—and the city’s other church at the time, so there were those in the Shalom minyan. The congregation is far from growing industries. church that made my life miserable.” wealthy, but all the families contribute. On a Friday afternoon, the local radio sta- Finally, de la Pena wrote a letter to the elders Spanish-speaking Rabbi Daniel Mehlman, tions play mostly Christian music or gospel telling them that he wanted to leave the church who officiates at Studio City’s Congregation chants in English and Spanish. The city’s main for good. In response, some threw eggs at his Beth Meier, occasionally visits Santa Maria and drags are lined with churches of all denomina- Children from Congregacion Beth Shalom in Santa Maria, home, secretly fed his kids sandwiches with offers guidance to those in the community who tions. But one church in particular stands out. Calif., celebrating Purim. (Courtesy Edgar de la Pena) pork and prohibited their children from play- have embarked on the conversion process. Me- Out front, a large banner reads in all capital let- ing with his children. De la Pena apologized to hlman says the group’s members “come from ters Congregacion Beth Shalom. The spelling of At 11, de la Pena’s family moved to the his family for what they had to endure, but he an observant [Christian] tradition,” which may Congregacion isn’t a mistake; it’s Spanish. United States, settling in Santa Maria, and he felt he had to stop hiding who he was. account for—in Mehlman’s words—their “gen- Edgar de la Pena, 36, a Mexican-born graphic attended a Pentecostal church. While still a teen, Once he was away from the Pentecostal uine spiritual yearnings.” artist who grew up in Santa Maria, is the found- he married his high school sweetheart, Irene— church, de la Pena became involved with Mes- On Friday nights, the Beth Shalom commu- er and leader of Beth Shalom, a devout com- of Filipino background—and they had children sianic Judaism, a growing movement whose ad- nity gathers for Shabbat services. De la Pena’s munity with a dozen families—approximately soon thereafter. In his early 20s, already a father herents observe elements of Judaism: They pray oldest daughter, 17-year-old Erandy, chants the 60 people—including many children. of two young daughters, de la Pena became a lay in Hebrew, observe Shabbat, maintain kashrut, biblical portions—in Hebrew—with skill and On Shabbat and Jewish holidays, as well as minister in his church. adore Israel and celebrate Jewish holidays. But beauty. It’s hard to listen to Erandy, to experi- other occasions, they gather in the sanctuary “But as I began to search the Bible for its es- they also venerate Yeshua—Jesus Christ. Messi- ence the community’s earnestness, and not be and meeting hall they rent from the church or sential meaning,” de la Pena said, “I felt more anic Judaism, especially when practiced by Lati- touched. Mehlman is moved by the group, too. at people’s homes. Though fairly new to the reli- and more that I wasn’t getting what I needed nos, seems to grow out of a desire to live the life “They’re thoroughly committed to their Ju- gion, they worship, study and live their Judaism from the church, what I needed spiritually. I felt that Yeshua and his disciples lived, which was daism,” the rabbi said. “The amount they invest wholeheartedly, and they do it communally. I was being told what to think and not to ques- that of observant Jews. in their religious institution, proportionally, is Like many Latinos who were raised Christian tion things.” De la Pena is very much aware that others astounding. They do everything possible to cre- and later became Jews by choice, de la Pena has De la Pena heard some in the church speak might suspect his group of being Messianic ate a comfortable home for themselves as Jews, family memories that connect him to Judaism. badly of Judaism. “So on my own, I started to Jews. He says emphatically they are not. which is hard to do in a place like Santa Maria.” He recalls that at 7 years old, while still living in study Torah,” he said. “We passed through a period with Messi- Mehlman listened as Erandy chanted. Michoacan, Mexico, he traveled to Jalisco to see He visited a synagogue and heard a sound anic Judaism and realized it was not what we “Amazing, isn’t she? Her father’s Mexican, relatives. He and his family arrived on a Friday. that struck him at his core: the blowing of were looking for,” he said. “Once I began study- her mother’s Filipina… and she’s 100 percent Before sundown, his grandmother told him to a shofar. The bleating of the ram’s horn not ing Judaism seriously, I realized that it’s very Jewish,” he said. “It brings up the question, what put on good clothes and turn off the TV. The only moved him deeply, it also brought back different—and a lot more—than the Judaism do Jews look like?” table for Friday night dinner was set elegantly, other memories of his grandmother—and of presented by the Messianic Jewish groups.” Mehlman opened his arms, palms up, indi- and the family didn’t go out in the public square certain behaviors he suddenly realized were The next step for de la Pena was to attend cating the entire Beth Shalom community. “The until after sundown on Saturday evening. based on family traditions that indicated what at the time was the one shul in Santa Ma- answer is, they look like this,” he said. n possible Jewish roots. Young Russian Jews in assimilation bind By Ben Sales NEW YORK (N.Y. Jewish Week)—Like 500 tain their unique identity as Russian Jews. “The American [Jewish] community Last year, RAJE founded the Rapid Reac- other young Jews from the former Soviet And there is the wild-card issue: the Russian could do more for Israel; people need to re- tion Force, which demonstrates against what Union who marched in this city’s Celebrate Is- community’s hard-line conservatism on alize that now is the time to make our voice the group perceives to be anti-Israel actions, rael Parade in June, Boris Shulman wore bright Israel, which has put some Russian Jews at heard,” said Alen Gershkovich, 32, who sits on including President Obama’s speech in May orange. In addition to signifying support for odds with the mainstream. RAJE’s board. “It’s important, especially with advocating the stance that talks between Is- Israel’s settler movement, which also uses or- Michael Nemirovsky, the director of Rus- what occurred in Europe, the Holocaust, to raelis and Palestinians be based on the 1967 ange, the color contrasted sharply with the 500 sian-speaking community outreach at the Jew- preserve Israeli security at all costs.” lines, with agreed-upon land swaps. The older Russian Jews who marched in the parade ish Community Relations Council, hopes that Other activists with RAJE—a group based Jewish right criticized the address. wearing blue and white. instead of combating the mainstream commu- in the Russian hub of Brighton Beach, Brook- Aside from RAJE, Ezra, a Russian-ori- Color choices are not all that separate the nity, young Russians will teach non-Russian lyn, that aims to engage Russian-speaking ented youth organization, has led 9,000 par- younger and older generations of Russian- Jews about the Russian-Jewish experience and, Jews aged 18 to 30 in Orthodox Jewish re- ticipants on Russian Jewish Birthright Israel American Jews. through that, influence American Jewish sup- ligious observance and conservative Israel trips. Larger groups such as the American Unlike their parents and grandparents, who port for Israel. advocacy—echoed these sentiments. Forum of Russian-Speaking Jewry, or AFRSJ, came to the United States as adults in the 1970s “The younger generation are not immi- Mariana Leybengrub, who attends RAJE have begun reaching out to the community’s and ‘80s, these young Russian Jews—born or grants,” he said. “They have the behavior of events, said that “American Jews feel more youth, and non-Russian organizations like raised in America, fluent in English and now American Jewish people. Our elderly people secure in their place in the country. They UJA-Federation of New York and Masa Is- in their 20s and 30s—grew up in the same cul- cannot deliver these ideas to the mainstream don’t fully understand the threat to Israel rael Journey have hired young Russian Jew- ture and country as their non-Russian Jewish Jewish community.” and Jews all over the world.” ish liaisons. American peers. Young Russian Jews are working out how Rabbi Mordechai Tokarsky, RAJE’s direc- The Russian Jewish community in America Now they must figure out how to integrate they would deliver those right-wing views to tor, said the group conducts Israel activism long has been more right wing than the rest of into the American Jewish mainstream—and the mainstream. The Russian contingent’s because of “the advent of J Street [the self- American Jewry. Polls leading up to the 2004 whether they even want to. showing in the Israel parade—a kind of mega- described pro-Israel, pro-peace lobby] and and 2008 elections conducted by the Research While Russian Jews of all ages express a desire event for the New York Jewish community— groups that are apologetic regarding their Institute for New Americans showed that the to grow closer to the rest of America’s Jews—or signifies a desire to participate in the same support of Israel.” majority of Russian Jews in New York City at least admit that such blending is inevitable— events as the mainstream. RAJE has taken more than 2,000 young planned to vote for the Republican presidential a debate is now taking shape among younger But the group that sponsored the orange Russian Jews to Israel in the past three years. candidate—a departure from the larger Jew- Russians that is pulling them in two different float, Russian American Jewish Experience, or This year, one of its trips focused on Israel ad- ish community’s Democratic character. In the directions, and that may result in less than full RAJE, has also been quick to look at Russian- vocacy. That trip, according to Tokarsky, was 2008 presidential election, for instance, Obama integration into the wider community. Jewish Israel activism as a corrective for the funded by Israel’s Foreign Ministry, which garnered 78 percent of the Jewish vote. They want to influence the political de- failures of American Jewry—not exactly talk is led by Avigdor Lieberman, who heads the bate in the wider community as well as re- of integration. conservative Russian Yisrael Beiteinu party. Continued on next page 28 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 A church, a shul and a mosque try a faithful experiment By Naomi Zeveloff (Forward)—Deep in America’s heartland, Mohiuddin, who was planning a nondenomi- to move to the new a Reform synagogue, a nondenominational national mosque in the same neighborhood. Sterling Ridge site mosque and an Episcopalian church are all put- “It wasn’t a directive from the rabbi to say, was extremely well ting down roots on a 37-acre tract of land that ‘Go get with this group of Muslims,’” said Jon accepted.” once belonged to a Jewish country club. A body Meyers, a board member at Temple Israel. “Hav- Still, Meyer said, of water called Hell Creek runs through the de- ing said that we realized, ‘Hey, this is a really cool some members of velopment, over which the faith groups plan to thing. Why don’t we look at exploring this?’ ” Temple Israel have build “Heaven’s Bridge.” After an unsuccessful bid to the Catholic expressed concerns Fantastical as it sounds, this interfaith campus Church in Omaha, the synagogue and mosque that the campus is currently in the works in Omaha, Neb. Slated found a willing third partner in the Episcopal might be a target of for completion in 2014, the Tri-Faith Initiative is Diocese of Nebraska. In 2006, the three faith Muslim terrorism, or an experiment in religious coexistence in a city groups drafted a Memorandum of Under- that the new mosque better known as a hub of corn-fed conservatism. standing committing to a shared campus with itself could give rise to “The only other place where such a thing an additional interfaith building, for which they a “terrorist cell.” exists is Jerusalem,” said Dr. Syed Mohiuddin, formed a separate 501(c)(3) called the Tri-Faith “Some people Rabbi Aryeh Azriel, center, is flanked by the Very Rev. Ernesto Medina, left, and chairman of the Creighton University School Initiative. Each faith group is responsible for have a concern that Shakil Ahmed at an interfaith meeting in 2008 at his Temple Israel in Omaha of Medicine. Mohiuddin’s organization, the purchasing its own parcel of land and building our proximity to American Institute of Islamic Studies and Cul- its own facility. The Tri-Faith Initiative will con- the mosque and the fact that we would be in makes your own faith stronger,” Mohiuddin said ture, is building a mosque on the campus. “Je- struct the fourth building. a neighborhood and in an initiative together he tells his doubters. “I am a better Muslim and rusalem is so important to these three faiths. We Proselytizing is strictly forbidden. would by association put us in jeopardy,” he have a much better understanding of Islam. And are sort of reproducing that model.” “It’s been a remarkable journey,” said Nancy said. “Pick a percentage, whatever percentage the other faiths have the exact same impression. If the experiment works, the city of Oma- Kirk, executive director of the Tri-Faith Initia- of the United States has that feeling [of fear of Their own beliefs have become stronger because ha—with a metropolitan-area population of tive. “I am so impressed by the relationships that Muslims], and I am sure that there is something they understand the religion better.” about 900,000, including 5,500 Jews, 6,000 have been built and the level of trust.” equal to that among our congregation.” Though Meyer, Mohiuddin and Medina Muslims and 4,500 Episcopalians—will be- This year, after an arduous five years scouting In order to allay the fears, Temple Israel’s have had to work to win over their respective come a beacon of cooperation in a world of in- for land, the groups finally settled on the 37-acre leaders reached out to Alan Potash, director of constituents, each one speaks of a deep com- terreligious strife. But before that can happen, property in West Omaha. The tract is part of a Omaha’s Anti-Defamation League, and to a mitment to his partners in the Tri-Faith Ini- the three groups still need to navigate fears, ste- larger mixed-use development called Sterling federal law-enforcement official, both of whom tiative. The lengthy search for a West Omaha reotypes and bureaucratic hang-ups. Ridge, the former site of the Highland Country assured them that they were not putting the con- location for the campus turned out to be a The story of the Tri-Faith Initiative began Club golf course built for Jews who were once gregation at risk by moving to the new location. blessing in disguise, providing the faith leaders with a simple quest for a parking lot. Temple Is- disallowed from the city’s mainstream golf clubs. “You have to be realistic about it,” Meyers with ample time to get to know one another rael, the largest synagogue in Omaha, is located The three faith groups, plus the Tri-Faith Initia- said. “Everyone has to be in charge of their and their respective communities. in the city’s congested downtown district. On tive, are under contract with Sterling Ridge’s own safety. It is not like it is going to be a walled In 2009, the three groups hosted an event the High Holidays, the Reform congregation developer for their respective land purchases. or gated community. This is still Omaha.” called Dinner in Abraham’s Tent, an hourlong borrows parking space from its two neighbors, Temple Israel, which has raised money for both Asked how he felt knowing that members panel discussion with national religious leaders the Omaha Community Playhouse and the the land and the synagogue, will likely break of the Jewish community harbored fears of from the three faiths at Omaha’s Qwest Center. First United Methodist Church. When Temple ground first, opening a new facility in 2013. Muslim extremism, Mohiuddin said that his More than 1,000 people attended. In April, the Israel’s leaders decided to relocate the congrega- “Our challenge is to pick up and move an community shared the same concerns. Tri-Faith Initiative sponsored a Passover seder tion to West Omaha, where many of the syna- entire congregation without making any of our “I don’t personally take offense because I at St. Martha’s Episcopal Church, where Me- gogue’s members now live, they reached out to decisions divisive,” Meyer said. “Our decision recognize that a small, tiny minority of Mus- dina is the rector. lims have caused people to fear, and the press “We had to start really late because people in the United States has not helped,” he said. kept coming,” Medina said. “We ate really well, continued from previous page “We think the best way to combat that is to let and we sang and we experienced something people get to know us and not be afraid.” with integrity. If fear was a factor, we would not For the Muslims and the Episcopalians, have known it.” Igor Branovan, president of the Ameri- lacks a Jewish background, even with the constructing facilities at the Tri-Faith campus But there also have been moments of tension, can Forum of Russian Speaking Jewry, an anti-Semitism that Jews in the Soviet Union will entail building congregations from the such as when the Jewish Federation of Omaha’s umbrella group, is less concerned about experienced there. ground up. While the Rev. Ernesto Medina newspaper, the Jewish Press, publicized the fact how the Russian community is relating to Esther Lamm, who left Ukraine in 1987 said there are plenty of Episcopalians to fill the that Naser Z. Alsharif, an American of Palestin- the mainstream than about the Russians’ and now heads UJA-Federation’s Young Rus- pews in a West Omaha church, the task could ian descent who serves on the Tri-Faith board, survival as a distinct group. He worries that sian Leadership Division, feels that while it prove particularly challenging for the Ameri- signed on to a boycott of Israeli academic and too much mixing between Russian and non- remains a discrete community, the Russians’ can Institute of Islamic Studies and Culture, a cultural institutions. In the Jewish Press article, Russian Jews could cause the Russian-Jewish emphasis should be on Jewish education, new not-for-profit devoted to countering the Temple Israel’s senior rabbi, Aryeh Azriel, an Is- community to disappear. not Israel or communal integration. image of violent Islam in American society. raeli, said that he would continue sitting on the “Our goal is to integrate into the general “First they need to build up their own “Not many people know about the orga- board with Alsharif, even though the revelation Jewish community, but we don’t want to see identity as Jews because of 70 years of no nization,” said Fa’iz Rab, spokesman for the “pain[ed]” him. our community disappear into the main- Jewish education,” she said. “Once that’s Islamic Center of Omaha. “We have decided at this point that the stream,” he said. done, once people feel that they’re part of “From the very beginning, we have made AIISC and the Tri-Faith Initiative, or for that Mark Kozhin, a member of the UJA- the community, the idea is to integrate.” an intense effort to keep the Muslim com- matter the temple or the diocese, have no po- Federation of New York’s Young Russian Leybengrub said that because the Rus- munity informed of what this organization is litical positions and if the individuals want to Leadership Division, hopes that the Russian sian Jewish community has had less Jewish about and to make it a success,” said Mohiud- express their political views, that is their own community’s conservative activism could education than the American community, it din, who added that outreach efforts will ramp purview,” Mohiuddin said. both assuage Branovan’s concerns and fulfill “has a very separate identity from the Amer- up once the mosque is built. “Current facili- The topic of Israel also came up at the Nemirovsky’s hopes for greater integration. ican Jewish community.” Jewish education, ties in Omaha are not big enough or sufficient group’s January 2009 board meeting after Op- Like Nemirovsky, Kozhin wants to see the she said, will bring integration in its wake. enough to do all we want to do.” eration Cast Lead in Gaza. Kirk said that she young Russian Jewish community influence “You first have to bring the Russian- The Tri-Faith Campus has also stirred up approached the meeting with dread, wonder- Israel activism in the U.S. But like Branovan, American community to understand a concern that cuts across faith lines: the pros- ing if the entire project would implode. But Kozhin hopes the young Russian Jews do this what it means to be Jewish,” she said. pect that coexistence could lead to romantic what might have rent asunder a weaker group while still identifying as Russian Jews. “They don’t know enough about the American commingling, and even intermarriage, among actually strengthened the bonds of Tri-Faith “A lot of people haven’t recognized the Jewish community to integrate. Once Jews, Muslims and Christians. Some Muslims, Initiative members. Russian Jews as active, but they are becom- somebody grows into understanding their Mohiuddin said, also wonder if the Tri-Faith “Dr. Mohiuddin came into the meeting and ing more of a voice,” he said. “For the most Jewish identity, it’s almost automatic. You campus could give rise to a fourth religion— he said, ‘My people are in great pain.’ Immedi- part, we’re recognized for our differences as feel more united.” n one that incorporates elements of Judaism, ately that allowed everyone else to share that well as for our similarities.” Islam and Christianity. sense of pain,” Kirk said. “You know, there was Some think that the talk of integration “We believe—and this has been our experi- no ‘you’re wrong, we’re right.’ It wasn’t about has come too soon for a community that ence—that understanding other faiths actually that. It was about the shared humanity.” n

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 29 I American Jewry

For non-Jewish mothers raising Jewish children, things can get complicated By Sue Fishkoff SAN FRANCISCO (JTA)—Lisa Shimel, who The family’s decision to create a Jewish comfortable raising the children Jewish. tive role in their children’s Jewish education, is not Jewish, celebrated Christmas with her home “just sort of evolved,” Morandi told JTA, Shimel later become chairwoman of Step- even teaching in the school. Henry, who served Jewish husband until their first child was because she and her husband wanted a sense ping Stones; she says she’s the first Christian on the school board and chaired several sub- born; now they’ve added Chanukah. Deb of community and his parents lived nearby to head up a Jewish outreach organization. committees, wondered why he was never nomi- Morandi works at Jewish Family Services, while hers did not. They joined the temple Like Morandi, Shimel says she feels no nated to chair the school board or asked to serve where she introduces intermarried families where their friends belonged and sent the pressure to convert, although some people on the synagogue’s board of trustees. Four years to Judaism, though she is not Jewish. boys to Tot Shabbat, a preschool program. “If have suggested it. ago, the cantorial director explained why: His Pat Luftman was a committee co-chair they choose another path when they grow up, “I never felt it was a requirement for our wife wasn’t Jewish. “It hurt us so badly and was in her son’s Jewish preschool, but her Jew- that’s fine with us,” she said. “We just wanted family to participate as fully as we like in Jew- insulting on so many levels,” Pat told JTA. “And ish husband was denied a board position be- to give them something.” Morandi says she ish life,” she said of conversion. “There are those rules were never written down. It was just cause the couple was intermarried. The Rev. feels no pressure to convert. Not only are most some things I can’t do, but it’s a reasonable ‘tradition.’ “ Eleanor Harrison Bregman accompanies her of their friends intermarried, so are many of compromise.” Half her community secretly wondered children and Jewish husband to synagogue the young families she works with at Jewish Morandi and Shimel belong to Reform why she didn’t convert if she was so eager to on Saturday, then goes to church the next day Family Services in Boston. congregations, the most liberal of the three be part of the community, Pat said, while the on her own. Raising Jewish children is even more major Jewish religious denominations when other half thought how wonderful it was that A growing number of non-Jewish parents complicated for a minister. Bregman is un- it comes to ritual roles for non-Jews. she was raising Jewish children. in America who have no plans to convert are like most non-Jewish women raising Jewish In both the Reform and Conservative The couple thought about leaving the raising Jewish children, marrying Jewish children in that she actively practices her movements, individual congregations set shul but decided instead to stay and change spouses, building Jewish homes and playing Christian faith. She grew up Episcopalian their own policies governing which rituals things. The synagogue now has written poli- active roles in the Jewish community. But in Savannah, Ga., and says she had “a pret- are open to non-Jews, though Reform syna- cies about what non-Jews and intermarried without plans to join the faith officially, their ty literalist view of the Bible” when she hit gogues tend to be more inclusive. Jewish members may and may not do, and place in the Jewish community can be a bit Princeton University. Bregman and her fu- Typically, non-Jews are permitted to do those policies are posted on the congrega- complicated. ture husband, Peter, struggled with the faith anything that is not a commandment —non- tion’s website. “My husband has never asked me to con- issue. He wanted her to convert, so they took Jewish parents may stand on the pulpit dur- For the Luftmans, it’s now a moot ques- vert, and I feel strongly that I won’t, so this is introductory Judaism classes and joined a ing a child’s bar or bat mitzvah, for example, tion: Pat converted in 2007. as far as it will go,” Morandi, an active mem- Jewish text study group. but do not say the prayer over the Torah. But Emotionally, being betwixt and between ber of her Reform congregation, Temple Etz They married in 1999, and their three some Reform congregations permit non- in the Jewish community can be a rough Chaim in Franklin, Mass., said of her syna- children received Orthodox conversions. All Jews to take part in every ritual, according to ride, Bregman said. gogue work. are now studying in Jewish schools. Mean- Vicky Farhi, lead outreach specialist for the “I had a real moment where I thought, I A decade ago, 31 percent of married Ameri- while, Bregman delved further into her own Union for Reform Judaism. can’t do this,” she said. “A minister married can Jews had non-Jewish spouses, the 2000-01 faith and was ordained as a United Church of In Conservative congregations, non-Jews to a Jewish man? In the back of my mind I’d National Jewish Population Survey reported. Christ minister in 2009. technically may not be members, and one always thought that I could convert and be The study, to which there has been no nation- “There’s not been much theological dis- must be a member to hold synagogue of- what my children are. Getting ordained was al follow-up, also showed that one-third of sonance,” she told JTA. “I worked it out in fice. But beyond that, there are very few “red closing off that possibility.” the children born to intermarried couples are seminary that we each have our own cov- lines” dictated by the movement hierarchy, At her child’s second-grade class presenta- raised Jewish. With most intermarriages in- enants.” Bregman says she doesn’t feel out said Rabbi Paul Drazen, special assistant to tion, Bregman says she wept while watching volving Jewish men and non-Jewish women, of place at Congregation B’nai Jeshurun, a the CEO of the United Synagogue of Con- the children read from the Torah and dance a lot of non-Jewish women are leading Jewish popular nondenominational synagogue they servative Judaism. around the bimah with their parents. “This lives in everything but name. attend as a family in Manhattan. But when “Each congregation reflects the commu- passing down of the Torah to the next gen- To be sure, there are many resources to she attend church alone on Sundays, her old- nity within which it is found,” he said. “At the eration, I’ll never be part of that,” she said. help them, from national groups to syna- est asks why. same time, it’s inconvenient and confusing.” But Bregman chose her path and is now gogue outreach committees. But each wom- For Shimel, when her children reached It’s also confusing when synagogues don’t a chaplain at the Jewish Hospital and Home an’s experience is still a unique path she must school age, she wanted to take them to set policies, or have one and don’t publicize in the Bronx, N.Y. She prays in her way and blaze on her own. church, but her Jewish husband wasn’t it. That’s what happened to Luftman and raises her children as Jews. Morandi, who grew up Southern Baptist, comfortable with it. The couple enrolled her husband, Henry, an intermarried couple “I was trying to fit it all in a box and I real- says her husband was the first Jewish person in Stepping Stones, a two-year program for who joined their Conservative synagogue in ized, I’ll always be in between,” she said. “It’s she really knew. They didn’t think about reli- interfaith couples in Denver, and by the end Allentown, Pa., 17 years ago. not an easy place to be.” n gion until their twins were born. of the course Shimel thought she could be Pat, the non-Jewish spouse, took a very ac-

U-M Library-WWII images , continued from page 1

dered Faye to develop curated by Jill Vexler, Ph.D. It will be on dis- • Tuesday, October 25, at 5:30 p.m., Brian their photographs of play in the Gallery (Room 100) on the first Porter-Szucs, associate professor of his- the massacre. As the floor of the Harlan Hatcher Graduate Li- tory, U-M, will speak on Poles and Jews Nazis gave her film to brary. All related programs take place in the During WWII: Beyond Martyrology. The develop, she secretly gallery and are free and open to the public. program is co-sponsored by the Weiser made extra copies for The gallery is accessible during library hours. Center for Europe and Eurasia. herself. For details, see http://www.lib.umich.edu/ • Tuesday, November 8, at 7 p.m. the library With her family hatcher-graduate-library. will present a screening of Defiance, a dead, Faye no longer This exhibit is made possible by Thomas film which tells the true story of the Biel- feared that her escape and Johanna Baruch, the Epstein/Roth Foun- ski brothers, who saved 1,200 lives and would endanger oth- dation, the Purjes Foundation, the Charles organized the largest Jewish resistance ers. During a partisan and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation, unit during World War II. Aron Bell, raid on her town, she the Koret Foudnation, the Taube Foundation the last survivor of the Bielski brothers, ran away and joined for Jewish Life and culture, the Holocaust will introduce the film. This program is the Molotova partisan Council of UJA MetroWest, and Diane and co-sponsored through the generosity of brigade. Faye served Howard Wohl. Robin and Alan Bell. the group as a nurse • Tuesday, November 15, at 7 p.m. Miriam from September 1942 Shish Detachment Field Operating Table Related events Brysk, a current Ann Arbor resident and to July 1944, even • Tuesday, October 11, at 7 p.m., the curator the only child allowed into the partisans though she had no previous medical expe- Displaced Persons Camps in Germany for the of the exhibit, Jill Vexler, Ph.D., will dis- in the Lipiczany forest, will speak on the rience. For two years Faye lived in the forest next three years. In 1948, they moved to Can- cuss her work on the exhibit in a presen- lives of the partisans in her area. Several and documented life there. After liberation, ada, where Faye currently resides. tation entitled, Photographer as Witness: of her paintings of Holocaust art will be Faye married another Jewish partisan. They The exhibit was produced by the Jewish Proof Enough? on display. n left Pinsk, Poland and lived in the Landsberg Partisan Educational Foundation and was

30 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 IOn Another Note

Ezra Graziano, Kidz Klez musical director, Oygasm band leader Sandor Slomovits, staff writer zra Graziano is a young, very versa- My job was as a freelance audio engineer. The description read “funk-klezmer,” this particular style of klezmer-gypsy re- tile Detroit area musician who plays I designed the soundscapes, as well as re- which is not a typical mix. (Laughter) ally has an edge. a number of instruments and plays corded the voiceover talent for those flash E Graziano: The Oygasms was a creation late WJN: You played at the recent Celtic Festival in a wide variety of genres and styles. His animations. last year. We were approached to play in Saline, and there you called yourself band, which changes names depending on I also did bar tending, to make ends meet. Road Kilt. the music they perform, plays fist-rock under WJN: The traditional the name, Red White and Booze Band, has Graziano: Yes, it’s the same members minus route for people who had a German incarnation (for a wedding) our rhythm guitar player and it’s the Celtic want to make a life in called Mein Schmaken Weiner, morphed version of what we do, which is a little more music. (Laughter) into a Celtic rock band called Road Kilt for rock driven, rather than punk driven. We’ve the Saline Celtic Festival, and in March re- Graziano: You have to. studied Celtic music; we’ve incorporated it, incarnated itself into a Klezmer band called Whatever it takes. I made it our own. We do traditional songs, Oygasm to play for Eastern Michigan Uni- eventually had a job originals and covers, as well. versity Hillel’s Purim party. opportunity to clerk WJN: So do you dress differently for the dif- for a circuit court judge WJN: You grew up in a musical family. ferent gigs? in Oakland County. Graziano: My mother, Sheila Graziano, has I did that until June Graziano: Absolutely. We dressed in kilts for been very involved with Irish step danc- of this year and that’s the Celtic. ing, Celtic music, as well as folk step danc- when I started in this ing, so she taught a lot, she did a lot of gigs, new position working WJN: How about for Purim? and I was always exposed to that aspect of as a web order proces- Graziano: For Purim we stuck with the black music. My father played guitar. He didn’t sor at Vintage King theme. We kept it classy and simple. Of gig, wasn’t a professional, but he always Audio, a Detroit based course Purim is festive, Halloweenesque, had guitars in the house, loved to play, company that sells au- so we wore masks on occasion. and sparked my interest as well. We had a dio gear. lot of records around, different styles for WJN: Where do you see yourself in the near WJN: You’ve also just be- me to experience, whether it was reggae, The Qygasms and distant future? come the musical di- contemporary or classic 1960s pop music. rector of Kidz Klez of Michigan. the Purim event. The idea of the student Graziano: My idea is to run my own busi- There was a lot of music readily available life director was to have a punk-klezmer ness, whether it’s a band, or as a freelance to me. My folks encouraged piano lessons Graziano: I started with them in April of show. That was something we embraced, audio engineer or contractor, or compos- when I was a kid. this year. Kidz Klez is a non-profit orga- something we could handle, something er. I have a substantial background com- nization, not associated with any specific WJN: How old were you when you started that would be really fun and challenging posing for choreographers. synagogue or temple. The kids in Kidz playing the piano? for us, this new genre that you don’t see WJN: Tell us more about that. Klez are from all over the Detroit area and a lot of. Graziano: I was six years old. Then in school the purpose of the group is to help kids, Graziano: At Wayne State I met with a dance I was in band. I chose to play trumpet and Jewish or non-Jewish, who are interested WJN: Did you have an example to model student at the time, who wanted to col- cornet. I did that for a few years before in klezmer music and want to play it and yourself after, or did you just say, “Oh, laborate on projects, so we ended up transitioning to other instruments. participate. They’ve done gigs across the punk-klezmer. We can do that.” getting a grant for an interdepartmen- state and have gone to New York and Chi- WJN: Your main instrument these days is the Graziano: Not entirely much. There is one tal study and we collaborated on several cago as well. keytar, which is sort of a combination of mainstream band called Gogol Bordello, projects. Since then I’ve been able to free- They’ve been established for ten years. guitar and keyboard, right? which is more Gypsy-based, but they do lance with a number of choreographers Cantor Dubob was their founder and encompass some of the folk rhythms and that need original compositions, and they director. He unfortunately passed away Graziano: Yes, it’s a very niche instrument now. scales that are found in klezmer music. really embrace the specificity that a com- suddenly; he was the soul and spirit of the It was very popular in the 1980s, and was That was one avenue we looked at, one av- poser can really tailor to a dancer’s needs. group. The kids seemed to enjoy it and the mainly used as a kind of synthesizer. There enue of inspiration, but we did our home- They’re great to work with, because they parents really wanted to continue on, and are different versions of it. The version I work. We looked at all sorts of different love quirky things. We’ve done every- so that’s where I came in. They needed a play is strictly a midi controller, so when I traditional klezmer groups, really cracked thing from eight-minute pieces up to a director and also were looking for a fresh say it’s a keytar, it’s really a synthesizer. down, we found sheet music and just re- full hour show. It’s something I hope to spin on things. They were familiar with ally got down to the basics and then started pursue more in the future. WJN: It’s a keyboard with a wide variety of my previous klezmer projects and asked writing original material from there. sounds available. me to jump in. WJN: So the dancing that surrounded you as WJN: Who else is in your group? a child is still a factor in your life. Graziano: Correct. And you wear it around WJN: What style of klezmer do you with your neck like a guitar and so you have them, traditional, original? Graziano: Justin Johnstone, Stacy Grif- Graziano: Unfortunately, I never embraced more mobility on stage. fith, Jessie Nieves, Mike Hoenerhoff, and step dancing as a child. It was never some- Graziano: So far it’s been mostly traditional Dominic Elber. Justin plays guitar and he thing I took to as an interest. Sadly, be- WJN: When you headed off to college, were Eastern European klezmer music. They and I have been playing music together cause it would have been another great you planning on making a career in music? have a great repertoire of things they’ve since 2005, but we met previously at tool in the arsenal. But dancing has be- played in the past, but the idea is that we Graziano: Initially, when I left high school, I Wayne State, recording music. Justin and come a very large part of our performance will be able to start working in original didn’t go directly into a music program. I have taken on a myriad of musical proj- as a group. We’re a very lively, high energy, material, things that I already have writ- I was open to different careers, and op- ects. I knew Jessie through my mother performance-based act. It’s not like I cho- ten, to give the kids something new and portunities, but didn’t find anything that and I met the others through Justin. That reograph moves, but I incorporate a lot of exciting to learn. sparked me as much as getting into music, was the ensemble for the Purim party and dancing and energy into our sets. so I found a program in Detroit, at Wayne WJN: Do you write mostly songs or instru- it turned out really well—at the Blind Pig, State, and followed through with their mu- WJN: What did your mom and dad say about mental music? ironically enough. (Laughter) It was very you deciding to make a life in music? sic technology program. I studied synthe- successful, we packed the house, and it sizers, sound design, recording techniques, Graziano: Both, and so far they are not ar- was great energy there. It was so success- Graziano: My parents, bless their hearts, but the program also gave us a background ranged for that particular ensemble yet, ful that they booked us again for a Ha- have always been supportive of every- in electrical engineering, computer science but I think there is great potential there nukkah show on December 3rd. thing I do. They also talked with me of and the physics of sound. for that to happen. The music is very The band is looking to play more. We course. They laid out that things would After school I interned at a jingle house, klezmer styled, that’s where we pull from have interest in pushing forward, espe- not always come as easy as you’d like them a commercial music house, and I also the Jewish roots, but the lyrics are mostly cially in this genre, because everyone really to come. But when I said that I wanted to took up other freelance work at a com- secular so far. enjoyed it. It’s been a lot of fun to rehearse go to music school, they were behind me pany that designed flash animations for WJN: Your band, named for the occasion, the and play. Our band plays so many styles, a hundred percent. They said, “You can do pharmaceutical companies to help their Oygasms, played for the EMU Hillel Pu- we’re almost forming something more whatever you put your mind to,” and en- representatives know how to sell drugs. rim party at the Blind Pig earlier this year. eclectic and encompassing, but I think couraged it. n

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 31 Have a BIG idea but a little bank account? The Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor welcomes applications for Jewish Community Impact Fund Grants

Grant funding is available in a competitive application format for proposals ranging from $2,000 to $10,000. A total of $40,000 is available this year.

Jewish Community Impact Fund grants are intended to inspire individuals, organizations, congregations and agencies to develop and implement new or enhanced programs that meet significant community needs or create new and innovative engagement opportunities in the greater Ann Arbor Jewish community. Proposals should build upon any of the following fundamental tenets: connection and engagement, tikkun olam/social responsibility, pluralism, leadership, and innovation. Proposals should not just meet specific organizational needs.

Proposals must serve the Greater Ann Arbor Jewish community, have measurable impact and be consistent with the Federation’s mission – to foster, initiate and preserve activities that strengthen Jewish life.

The deadline for submission of applications is October 10, 2011.

Applications and further details are available on the Federation website: 2939 Birch Hollow Drive www.jewishannarbor.org or contact David Shtulman at 677-0100 or Ann Arbor, MI 48108 [email protected]. 734-677-0100 www.jewishannarbor.org

32 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 I Calendar

Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Bowling: EMU Hillel. Monthly event at Bel- Hike: TBE Jewish Hikers of Michigan: Spon- September 2011 the basic text of Chassidism and open your Mark Lanes, 3530 Jackson Road. $5 for two sored hikes for all members of the commu- eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. games, shoe rental and pizza. 7 p.m. nity. Leave from North Bay Park in Ypsilanti Thursday 1 Every Sunday. Israeli Dancing: JCC. Easier dances and oldies for a low impact hike lasting 1–2.5 hours. No Fun Fair: BIC. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. the first hour followed by newer dances, line pets please. For information or to be added to dances and requests. $5/admission. For in- the email list, contact Eli Avny at 883-9522 or Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- formation, phone 971-0990. 7:30– 10:30 p.m. email [email protected]. 1–3 p.m. ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Also September 15 and 22. Opening Reception: JCC. Opening Reception SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. for photographic exhibit. See September 1st with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish listing. 4–6 p.m. Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Jew- Monday 5 legal system by following the intriguing discus- 9/11 Memorial Service: TBE. Commemorating ish perspective on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite the 10th anniversary of the events of 9/11. Rabbi $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; English as a Second Language Daily Classes: of practical law, logical argumentation and moral Robert Levy, Rabbi Lisa Delson, and Cantor An- Special events and guest presentations, 1 p.m.; JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on teachings. Study of the original Talmud tractate nie Rose will lead the one-hour service featuring Literary Group with Sidney Warschausky at Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. prayers and songs for healing and peace. Falling 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner at 971-0990 for Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 on 12 Elul this year, in the middle of a month name of current book. South State Street. For more information, of reflection and preparation for the High Holy Birthdays and Presentation: JCC-Seniors. Cel- contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@ Friday 9 Days, the service will include special readings and ebration for all with September birthdays. jfsannarbor.org. Ongoing. music. For information, contact Rabbi Delson at Family and friends invited for lunch and Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. 665-4744. 4–5 p.m. birthday cake at 12:30 p.m. At 1 p.m., follow- Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn- ing celebration, Rabbi Robert Levy of Tem- Tuesday 6 761-2765 for information. ing the deeper meanings to the Jewish way of ple Beth Emeth, will speak about his recent Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot life. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. sabbatical trip at 1 p.m. “Shabbat, An Oasis in Time:” Jewish Learning Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot Photography Exhibit: JCC. Exhibit based on Institute. Explore the mystical, psychological, and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6:00 p.m. Sukkat Joan Kadri Zald’s recently published book, social, and cultural dimensions of Shabbat Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 p.m. Shi- Monday 12 Portraits of Creative Aging: Living Longer to unlock a model for finding serenity and a ra (song session) at 6:30 p.m. Popsicle Oneg transcendent frame of mind. 9:30–11 a.m. at and Better. The centerpiece of the book is a follows at 7 p.m. English as a Second Language Daily Classes: JFS. Chabad House and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. collection of thirty-seven stories, with black Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on Mondays– Every Tuesday. Adult Shabbat Dinner: TBE. Monthly adult din- and white photographic portraits of men and ner before the service. $10/adult; $5/children Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays–Thursdays at women in their retirement years who are en- SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise under 12. Reserve at www.templebethemeth. Jewish Family Services, 2245 South State Street. gaged in creative and productive endeavors. with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or org or phone 665-4744. For more information, contact JFS at 769-0209 September 1 through October 15. $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet New Member Shabbat: TBE. Prospective and or email [email protected]. Ongoing. Student-Faculty Reception and Fair: EMU Hil- Lunch, noon; Games and activities including mahjong, quilting for the patients of Mott new member Shabbat with Kol Halev, featur- lel. Israel Fair highlighting culture, technol- ing the TBE Board Installation. 7:30 p.m. Tuesday 13 ogy, a day in the life of a young Israeli, Shuk Hospital, art projects and card games. 1 p.m. Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. and more. EMU Student Center, Room 204 Wii sports including bowling, tennis, golf “Shabbat, An Oasis in Time:” Jewish Learning In- from 3–5 p.m. and baseball. No experience necessary. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. stitute. Explore the mystical, psychological, social, Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Saturday 10 Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): and cultural dimensions of Shabbat to unlock a Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish All ages and levels welcome including UM and model for finding serenity and a transcendent legal system by following the intriguing discus- The Learner’s Service: Ann Arbor Reconstruc- non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s frame of mind. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a compos- tionist Havurah. First session of 10-part se- Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Every Tuesday. ite of practical law, logical argumentation and ries offered by Aura Ahuvia. Each month, this For information, call 936-2367. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with moral teachings. Study of the original Talmud service will look at different parts of the tradi- Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- tractate Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. tional Saturday morning service by examining sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- historical, geographical and political traditions. Games and activities including mahjong, quilt- standing it is no simple matter. Study the Presented in an engaging and participatory way. ing for the patients of Mott Hospital, art projects Friday 2 text in the original, together with the classical Visit www.aarecon.org for this month’s topic. 10 and card games, 1 p.m. Writing Your Wisdom commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. a.m. – noon at the JCC. Monthly through June. facilitated by Janice Thorup; 1–3 p.m. Wii sports Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. nd Children’s Services: BIC. Mini Minyan for K–2 including bowling, tennis, golf and baseball. No Meets at the JCC. Call Ray Juni at 761-2765 rd th Wednesday 7 graders at 11 a.m. Kehillat Shabbat for 3 –5 experience necessary. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. for information. 1:30 p.m. graders at 11 a.m. Tot Shabbat for preschool- Welcome Back Shabbat: EMU Hillel. Tradition- Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. ers and their families. 11:15 a.m. al Kabbalat service and dinner to welcome All ages and levels welcome including UM and Snacks and beverages will be provided. Noon. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s new students and returners. Services at 6 p.m., Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. Arrive early Adult Hebrew Sign-up: BIC and TBE. Jointly Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. sponsored by BIC and TBE. Meet the teachers mensions of the Torah: Chabad. 1 hour before For information, call 936-2367. to help cook. Hillel House, 965 Washtenaw sundown. Every Saturday. Avenue in Ypsilanti. and sign-up at BIC for fall classes. Meetings Film Discussion Group: JCC-Cultural Arts and for three levels of beginning, conversational Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot Education. Russ Collins, executive director of and biblical classes to alternate at BIC and group code of law for Shabbat, and study Shabbat and dinner of mac and cheese, fish the Michigan Theater, and Bernie Banet, JCC TBE locations beginning September 12. For of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. sticks and popsicles. 5:30 p.m. film maven, lead lively and thought-provoking information, contact Rabbi Delson at ldel- Every Saturday. discussions about a variety of films. Year-long Summer Send-off Service: TBE. Congregant- [email protected]. 6 p.m. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. membership in JCC Film Discussion Group led service. 7:30 p.m. fee is $70 for JCC members and $85 for non- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. members. The fee does not include price of Thursday 8 Sunday 11 movie tickets. 7–9 p.m. Monthly. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Saturday 3 Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the standing it is no simple matter. Study the Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise text in the original, together with the classical Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. at with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. mensions of the Torah. 1 hour before sun- Current Events with Heather Dombey, a Chabad House. Every Sunday. down. Every Saturday. Jewish perspective on this week’s news, 11 Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study a.m.; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, the basic text of Chassidism and open your Wednesday 14 group code of law for Shabbat, and study Noon; Special events and guest presentations, eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. at of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Sidney War- Chabad House. Every Sunday. Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch. Every Saturday. schausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner at Men’s Club: BIC. Planning session. 9:30 a.m. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Noon. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. 971-0990 for name of current book. Tiger’s Game Outing: TBE TNT. Join the Twen- Fundraiser: TBE. Share a meal and help sup- Presentation: JCC Seniors. A nurse from Care ties and Thirties Group for a trip to Detroit port The Back Door Food Pantry, which is Sunday 4 Response will monitor blood pressures at to see the Tiger’s take on the Twins or Roy- operated entirely by volunteer effort and 12:30 p.m., followed at 1 p.m. by a perfor- als. $15/ticket. Carpool (drivers needed) to 100 percent of donations go to providing Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–fo mance and discussion of selections from the Tiger Stadium. Meet at TBE at 11:30 a.m.. food and hygiene products for those in need. Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the prayer Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s 2011-12 Game starts at 1:05 p.m. For more informa- Featuring the Guest Griller and lots of sur- book, an overview of the weekly Torah reading, with season by the Orchestra’s new Education and tion, contact Brett Willner at bwillner@tem- prises. BD’s Mongolian BBQ, Main Street at Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. Community Outreach Director. plebethemeth.org or phone 665-4744. Washington. 6–9 p.m.

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 33 I Calendar

Hebrew 102: TBE. For information, contact Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study Brett Willner at [email protected]. Sunday 18 Wednesday 21 group code of law for Shabbat, and study 6:30–7:30 p.m. Also September 21. of Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Men’s Torah Study: TBE. Bi-monthly group in- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Lunch and Learn: BIC. Bring a dairy lunch, Every Saturday. cludes learning and lively discussion. Led by Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the snacks and beverages will be provided. Noon. Gimme Shelter Fundraiser: TBE. Fundraiser Roger Stutesman. For information, contact prayer book, an overview of the weekly Torah Afternoon Delights Concert: JCC Seniors. for Alpha House – Interfaith Hospitality [email protected]. 7:30 p.m. reading, with Jewish philosophy. 9:30 a.m. Concert co-sponsored by the Ann Arbor Sym- Network, featuring strolling dinner, compli- Every Sunday. phony Orchestra, featuring Brian Bowman, mentary beer and wine, silent auction and Social Action Committee: BIC. Meeting at 10 a.m. principal clarinetist. Doors open at 12:50 p.m. live music. For more information, contact Thursday 15 LocavORT: Ann Arbor ORT: Fall brunch at the at the JCC. Refreshments served at 1 p.m. Helena Robinovitz at [email protected]. home of Linda Greene, featuring a menu of Concert begins at 1:30 p.m. Tickets $8 at the 6:30–9:30 p.m. Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish healthy Michigan foods. Speakers will include door or from Ann Arbor Symphony. Selichot: TBE. High Holy Day season ushered in Philosophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at Dena Jaffee, an expert on healthy, sustainable Board Meeting: BIC Women’s League Sister- with Selichot Service, beginning at 8:45 p.m. the JCC. cooking, and Shaindle Braunstein-Cohen, Di- hood. 4:30 p.m. with refreshments, followed at 9:30 p.m. with SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise rector of Hermelin ORT Resource Center in Hebrew 102: TBE. For information, contact a story and havdallah, then Selichot and adult with Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; West Bloomfield. $10 donation. Rides avail- Brett Willner at bwillner@templebethemeth. choir Kol Halev. Current Events with Heather Dombey, a able. RSVP by September 8 to Nancy Karp at org. 6:30–7:30 p.m. Selichot: BIC. Havdallah and refreshments at Jewish perspective on this week’s news, 11 [email protected]. 9:30 p.m. Pre-Selichot program at 9:45 p.m. a.m.; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Selichot service preceded by dedication of Noon; Special events and guest presenta- the basic text of Chassidism and open your Thursday 22 memorial plaques at 11 p.m. tions, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with Sidney eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Poliner Every Sunday. Prayer, Weekly Torah Reading and Jewish Philos- at 971-0990 for name of current book. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn ophy–for Women: Chabad. 9 a.m. at the JCC. Sing-A-Long: JCC Seniors. Tune up your voice the deeper meanings of the Jewish way of life. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with Sunday 25 and sing-a-long with Joanne. 1 p.m. 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Maria Farquhar, 10 a.m., $4 or 3/$10; Current Hebrew 103: TBE. For information, contact Events with Heather Dombey, a Jewish perspec- Reading Hebrew through the Prayer Book–for Brett Willner at bwillner@templebethemeth. tive on this week’s news, 11 a.m.; $3 Homemade Women: Chabad. An in-depth study into the org. 6:15–7:15 p.m. Also September 22. Monday 19 Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; Special events and prayer book, plus an overview of the week- Israeli Dancing: JCC. Easier dances and old- guest presentations, 1 p.m.; Literary Group with ly Torah reading, with Jewish philosophy. ies the first hour followed by newer dances, English as a Second Language Daily Classes: Sidney Warschausky at 2:15 p.m. Call Merrill Po- 9:30 a.m. Every Sunday. line dances and requests. $5/admission. For JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on liner at 971-0990 for name of current book. Introduction to Judaism: BIC. With Rabbit Do- information, phone 971-0990. 7:30– 10:30 p.m. Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– Lunch and Presentation: JCC-Seniors: Special brusin. 9:30 a.m. Also September 22. Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 “Apples and Honey” lunch at noon. Then, South State Street. For more information, A Day at the Spa: BIC. Women’s League Sis- Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Cha- learn more about honey, bees and beekeeping terhood. Opening Event where participants contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@jfsan- from local beekeeper Jane Levy at 1 p.m. bad. Sharpen your wits and knowledge of narbor.org. Ongoing. can find out what the Sisterhood has to of- the Jewish legal system by following the Hebrew 103: TBE. For information, contact Brett fer including learning about next year’s pro- intriguing discussions in the Talmud. The Movie Wednesday: TBE. Join other movie en- Willner at [email protected]. gramming. Also visit many stations that will Talmud is a composite of practical law, logical thusiasts for afternoon movie and discus- 6:15–7:15 p.m. be set up in the Large Social Hall where you sion of Annie Hall, directed by Woody Allen. argumentation and moral teachings. Study Israeli Dancing: JCC. Easier dances and oldies can learn about and be pampered with facials, Snacks provided. 1–3 p.m. of the original Talmud tractate Taanit the first hour followed by newer dances, line manicures, reflexology, henna and more. RSVP chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Women’s Torah Study: TBE. Led by Cantor An- dances and requests. $5/admission. For infor- to 945-8256, if possible, by September 12. nie Rose. Using the “Women of Reform Ju- mation, phone 971-0990. 7:30– 10:30 p.m. 10 a.m–Noon. daism Women’s Commentary,” this month’s Talmud Study Group–Jewish Civil Law: Chabad. Tanya–Jewish Mysticism: Chabad. Delve into Friday 16 reading and study will focus on Nitzavim- Sharpen your wits and knowledge of the Jewish the basic text of Chassidism and open your Vayelech. 7–8:30 p.m. legal system by following the intriguing discus- eyes to the beauty of Judaism. 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot sions in the Talmud. The Talmud is a composite Every Sunday. Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot of practical law, logical argumentation and moral and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6:00 p.m. Suk- Tuesday 20 Apples and Honey Family Program: JCC. Annual teachings. Study of the original Talmud tractate kat Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 p.m. event celebrating Jewish fall holidays with chil- Taanit chapter 2. 8 p.m. Every Thursday. Shira (song session) at 6:30 p.m. Popsicle “Shabbat, An Oasis in Time:” Jewish Learning dren’s activities including bouncers, games, sho- Oneg follows at 7 p.m. Institute. Explore the mystical, psychological, far blowing, arts and crafts, clowns, face painting social, and cultural dimensions of Shabbat and balloons. Israeli food, kosher baked goods Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Friday 23 and lunch will be available for purchase along Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at to unlock a model for finding serenity and a transcendent frame of mind. 9:30–11 a.m. at with gifts and Judaica items. Information about 761-2765 for information. Weekly Yiddish Reading Group: JCC Seniors. Chabad House and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. local Jewish organizations will be available and a Meets at the JCC. 1:30 p.m. Call Ray Juni at Mexican Shabbat: EMU Hillel. Enjoy traditional Every Tuesday.. Newcomers Booth will welcome new JCC mem- Mexican fare and explore fascinating Jewish his- 761-2765 for information. SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise with bers and new arrivals to Ann Arbor. $3/person or tory of Mexico following a traditional Kabbalat Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or $10/3 ses- $10/family for JCC members or $4/person and service. Hillel House, 965 Washtenaw Avenue. Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot sions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet Lunch, noon; $12/family for non-members. No fee for children Arrive early to help cook. 6 p.m. and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6:00 p.m. Sukkat Games and activities including mahjong, quilt- under two. Noon–3 p.m. Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 p.m. Shi- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. ing for the patients of Mott Hospital, art projects Camp Raanana Reunion: JCC-Youth. Join the ra (song session) at 6:30 p.m. Popsicle Oneg and card games. 1 p.m. Writing Your Wisdom Raanana reunion at the Apples and Honey follows at 7 p.m. Saturday 17 facilitated by Janice Thorup; 1–3 p.m. Wii sports celebration and meet up with camp friends including bowling, tennis, golf and baseball. No Kabbalat Shabbat: Ann Arbor Reconstruction- and counselors. (See description of Apples experience necessary. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. ist Havurah. Held the fourth Friday each and Honey Program above.) Noon-3 p.m. Shabbat Limmud: BIC. With Rabbi Dobrusin. month at the JCC. Musical Kabbalat service, Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): Rembrandt Education Series: JCC-Cultural Arts 9 a.m. followed by vegetarian potluck dinner. Pizza All ages and levels welcome including UM and and Education. Part 1 of three-part series held Shabbat Potluck Lunch: TBE TNT. The Twen- nosh for children at 6 p.m. and childcare non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s in conjunction with the Detroit Institute of ties and Thirties (TNT) group will meet at during the services from 6:15–7:30 p.m. For Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. Arts (DIA). Featuring instructor Mariam Bodi- 12:30 p.m. for lunch in Nichols Arboretum. information, contact Jen Cohen at mamaco- For information, call 936-2367. an, history professor at the University of Texas– Bring dairy dish to share. Meet at Arboretum [email protected], phone 975-6527, or visit Austin and participant at the Frankel Institute parking lot on Nichols Drive in front of UM Caregiver Conversations: JCC-Older Adults www.aarecon.org. Programs. This month’s topic is “Memory for Advanced Judaic Studies at the Univer- Medical Center, from where group will head Pet Shabbat: BIC. 6 p.m. sity of Michigan. The third class, to be held on out to Main Valley. For more information or Loss and Your Aging Parent.” Discussion will Kabbalat Shabbat: BIC. 7:15 p.m. November 25, will be a tour of the Rembrandt to RSVP, contact Brett Willner at bwillner@ include the signs of memory loss or dementia and steps to be taken to deal with these condi- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. and the Face of Jesus exhibit at the DIA. 4–5:30 templebethemeth.org or phone 665-4744. p.m. Also October 23 and November 25. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: tions. For information, contact abbie@jfsan- narbor.org or phone 769-0208. 6:30–8 p.m. Jewish Concepts–for Women: Chabad. Learn Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- Saturday 24 the deeper meanings of the Jewish way of life. mensions of the Torah. 1 hour before sundown. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- 8 p.m. Every Sunday. Every Saturday. Tot Shabbat: BIC. For preschoolers and their standing it is no simple matter. Study the Laws of Shabbat–Jewish Ethics: Chabad. Study families. 11:15 a.m. group code of law for Shabbat, and study of text in the original, together with the classical Monday 26 commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. Mystical Insights to the Torah–for Women: Jewish Ethics, 1/2 hour before sundown. Ev- Chabad. Learn more about the mystical di- ery Saturday. mensions of the Torah. 1 hour before sun- English as a Second Language Daily Classes: Shabbat services: See listing at end of calendar. down. Every Saturday. JFS. Ongoing class from 9 a.m.–noon on

34 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 35 36 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 Mondays–Fridays and 1–3 p.m. on Mondays– familiar songs, appropriate and meaningful for changing topics, focusing on historical, geo- Phone numbers and addresses of Thursdays at Jewish Family Services, 2245 all ages, will be held at Riverside Park near De- graphical, and political traditions of different South State Street. For more information, pot town in Ypsilanti at 1:30 p.m. parts of traditional service each month. For frequently listed iorganizations: contact JFS at 769-0209 or email andre@jfsan- info, email [email protected] or call 913-9705 Birthday of the World: TBE. Join Cantor Rose Ann Arbor Orthodox Minyan (AAOM) narbor.org. ongoing. or visit www.aarecon.org. for short service followed by birthday cake in 1429 Hill Street 994-5822 celebration of the world’s birthday. For fami- Shabbat Services: Chabad. Morning services at lies with younger children. 4:30 p.m. 9:45 a.m. Afternoon services 45 minutes be- Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah (AARH) Tuesday 27 P.O. Box 7451, Ann Arbor 913-9705 Rosh Hashanah Services: BIC. Morning services fore sundown. “Shabbat, An Oasis in Time:” Jewish Learning In- at 8 a.m. Children’s programs at 10:30 a.m. Shabbat Services: Pardes Hannah. Gener- Beth Israel Congregation (BIC) th th stitute. Explore the mystical, psychological, social, Discussion Group for 9 –12 graders at 11:30 ally meets the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each 2000 Washtenaw Ave. 665-9897 a.m. Mincha followed by Tashlich at 5:15 p.m. month. Call 663-4039 for more information. and cultural dimensions of Shabbat to unlock a Chabad House Ma’ariv at 7:30 p.m. 10 a.m. Led by Rabbi Elliot Ginsburg. model for finding serenity and a transcendent 715 Hill Street 995-3276 frame of mind. 9:30–11 a.m. at Chabad House Rosh Hashanah Services: Chabad. Morning Shabbat Services: TBE. Torah Study with Rabbi and 7:30–9 p.m. at the JCC. Every Tuesday. services at 9:45 a.m. Sounding of the Shofar Levy at 8:50 a.m. Morning Minyan with Rabbi EMU Hillel 965 Washtenaw Ave., Ypsilanti 482-0456 SPICE of LIFE: JCC Seniors. Energy Exercise at 11:30 a.m., followed by festive meal. After- Delson and lay leaders at 9:30 a.m. Sanctuary with Maria Farquhar, 11 a.m., $4/session or noon services and Tashlich, riverside services Service at 10 a.m. most weeks. Call the of- Jewish Community Center (JCC) $10/3 sessions; $3 Homemade Dairy Buffet at 4 p.m. Evening services at 7:30 p.m. fice at 665-4744 or consult website at www. 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 971-0990 templebethemeth.org for service details. Lunch, noon; Games and activities including Jewish Cultural Society (JCS) mahjong, quilting for the patients of Mott Home Hospitality for Shabbat and Holiday Friday 30 2935 Birch Hollow Drive 975-9872 Hospital, art projects and card games. 1 p.m. Meals: AAOM. Call 662-5805 in advance. Writing Your Wisdom facilitated by Janice Home Hospitality and Meals: Chabad. Every Jewish Family Services (JFS) Rosh Hashanah Services: BIC. Morning Ser- Thorup; 1–3 p.m. Wii sports including bowl- Shabbat and Holiday. Call 995-3276 in advance. 2245 South State Street 769-0209 vices at 8 a.m. Children’s programs at 10:30 ing, tennis, golf and baseball. No experience p.m. Family Program at 11:30 a.m. Mincha Jewish Federation necessary. 1 p.m. Every Tuesday. and Ma’ariv at 7 p.m. 2939 Birch Hollow Drive 677-0100 Selichot: Chabad. Featuring Cantor Rabbi Pol- Rosh Hashanah Services: Chabad. Morning ser- ter of Oak Park leading the service. 1:30 p.m. Shabbat Candlelighting Pardes Hannah vices at 9:45 a.m., followed by festive meal. After- 2010 Washtenaw Ave. 761-5324 Yidish Tish (Yiddish Conversational Group): noon services and Tashlich, riverside services at All ages and levels welcome including UM and 4 p.m. Afternoon/ Evening services at 7 p.m. September 2 7:50 p.m. Temple Beth Emeth (TBE) non-UM participants. 1:30 p.m. at Beanster’s 2309 Packard Road 665-4744 Rosh Hashanah Services: AARH. Second day September 9 7:38 p.m. Café, ground floor of UM Michigan League. services with Pardes Hannah Meditation Ser- September 16 7:26 p.m. UM Hillel For information, call 936-2367. 1429 Hill Street 769-0500 vice from 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Held at St. Aidan’s September 23 7:14 p.m. Weekly Torah Portion—for Women: Chabad. Episcopal/Northside Community Church at Reading the Bible may be easy, but under- 1679 Broadway. September 30 7:01 p.m. standing it is no simple matter. Study the Shabbat Services for Young Families: TBE. Tot text in the original, together with the classical Shabbat for ages 5 and under at 5:30 p.m. Tot commentaries. 8:30 p.m. Every Tuesday. and Sukkat Shalom dinner at 6:00 p.m. Sukkat Old soldier, continued from page 25 Shalom for ages 5 through 10 at 6:30 p.m. Shi- Wednesday 28 ra (song session) at 6:30 p.m. Popsicle Oneg follows at 7 p.m. Still, my military service, like that of all makeup of the average miluim company, the dis- Rosh Hashanah Services: BIC. Erev Rosh Hasha- Friday evening services: See listing at end of calendar. soldiers, saw its share of aborted operations, cussions are heated and from the heart. I heard nah family celebration at 4 p.m. Evening Ser- anal-retentive colonels and idiot corporals. A soldiers debating the Oslo accords, the Gaza vices at 8 p.m. Dessert reception at 9:15 p.m. lieutenant in Lebanon once failed to fire back at withdrawal and conversion laws. In a platoon of Rosh Hashanah Observance: JCS. Secular cel- Weekly Friday night Shabbat services a Hezbollah anti-tank crew because he forgot the reservists, the company commander is more of a ebration of the Jewish New Year, with read- rules of engagement. (To me, the rules were clear: manager; he won’t tell people what to think, and ings, meditation, and music. Also, apples and Shabbat Service: AAOM. Services held at UM Hil- They were shooting at us; we should shoot back.) the debates sometimes end in stalemate. honey, challah and honey cake, coffee and lel. Call 994-9258 in advance to confirm time. A private brought his penchant for unsafe driv- I’ve always felt that as long as I am physically wine. 7–9 p.m. Childcare provided. Price of Shabbat Service: BIC. 6 p.m. ing to the miluim and crashed an armored jeep able, I will report to service. But I do it, I admit, three-observance admission also includes ob- Shabbat Service: TBE. Tot Shabbat at 5:30 p.m., on a slippery road outside Hebron. No true sol- for what may seem an old-fashioned notion: na- servances of Kol Nidre on October 7 at 7 p.m. followed by tot dinner. Sukkat Shalom service dier’s experience is complete without a few sna- tional duty. I once asked my friend Gadi, a lanky and Yom Kippur on October 8 at 2 p.m. and at 6:30 p.m. for “tot grads,” preceded by din- fus. Thankfully, in my experience, there weren’t tank driver who went through basic training with Break the Fast meal on October 8 at 6:30 p.m. ner. Shira at 6:30 p.m. Oneg for Tot and Sukkat that many. me, why he always responded to the call-up. He Tashlich observance is free (but reservation Shalom families at 7 p.m. Traditional Service at required) on September 29 at noon in Island But it was always the sense of duty—to both answered, “I’m here because you’re here.” 7:30 p.m. Once a month Middle School Service Park off Maiden Lane between Broadway and country and friends in uniform—that kept me In the Negev, at 40, I realized I was one of the at 7:30 p.m. For information, call 665-4744. Fuller. All events, except Tashlich, take place at coming back. Although reserve duty is techni- elder statesmen in the company. What could be the JCC. $25/person; $10/student; $50/family Shabbat Service: Ann Arbor Reconstructionist cally applicable to all Israeli men until they are my final deployment turned out to be patrolling per observance. All three observances for $50/ Havurah. 6:15 PM at the JCC the last Friday 45, only about 20 percent of eligible citizens actu- the Egyptian border (with its new geopolitical person; $25/student; $100/family. Reservations each month. Musical Shabbat service followed ally serve. There are many ways to shirk the duty, significance), a few hours from the Red Sea port required at [email protected]. by vegetarian potluck. Tot Shabbat with op- from fabricated medical reasons to simply being of Eilat, in a wild no-man’s land. We dealt with tional kid’s pizza dinner at 6:00 PM. All are Rosh Hashanah Services: AARH. Childcare so much of a pain in the ass that no officer wants the complicated reality of illegal Sudanese and welcome to attend. For information, call 975- available for non-members with a paid reser- 6527, email [email protected], or you in their command. Employers continue to Eritrean immigrants crossing the Sinai frontier vation. 7:30–9 p.m. at Unitarian Universalist visit www.aarecon.org. pay salaries during a soldier’s absence, and then to sneak into Israel. We stopped Bedouin smug- Congregation, 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Road. Shabbat Service: Chabad. Begins at candle- they file for reimbursement from the govern- glers. And we knew we weren’t far from Hamas Rosh Hashanah Services: Chabad. Evening lighting time. Home hospitality available for ment. (Independent workers get an average of and al-Qaida cells. services at 7:30 p.m. Shabbat meals and Jewish holidays. Call 995- recent income.) I did basic training not too far away from 3276 in advance. Once I was called up for maneuvers, which where our platoon’s Humvees patrolled on Thursday 29 are designed to drill and practice military tactics, this last deployment. One moonless night of Weekly Shabbat services during the last week of summer vacation. Before that tour, I sat in a dried-out riverbed a few JCC Closed for Rosh Hashanah. Shabbat Services: AAOM. Morning service, 9:30 we started, there was a cacophony of complaints hundred yards from an Egyptian watchtower Rosh Hashanah Services: AARH. First day servic- a.m. Evening service, 35 minutes before sun- from us about the inconvenient timing. I re- and scanned the distance with my night vision es from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Children’s services from set. Call 662-5805 for information. Mincha/ member that the battalion commander stood equipment. I know that barring the outbreak of 11 a.m.–noon with Apples and Honey Oneg Ma’ariv with Seudah Shlisheet and Dvar To- before us, shrugged his shoulders, and said, “Fel- a war, for which I would return to service im- following from 1–1:30 p.m. Childcare avail- rah every week. Torah topics and a bite to eat. las, you know how you read in the papers that if mediately, those may have been some of my able for non-members with a paid reservation. Discussions led by Rabbi Rod Glogower and Hezbollah attacks in the North Israel will know final acts as a soldier. Services held at Unitarian Universalist Congre- other local scholars. Home hospitality avail- how to respond? Who do you think they’re talk- Either way, no one can say that I never did gation, 4001 Ann Arbor-Saline Road. Tashlich, able for Shabbat meals. UM Hillel. ing about? You either realize that it’s you who’ll my part. And there will always be a part of with guided meditation option, from 4–5 p.m. Shabbat Services: BIC. 9:30 a.m. Morning child- be facing them and that you need to be prepared, me that would long for the oases of simplic- held at Island Park, 1450 Island Drive. care from 10 a.m.–12:15 p.m. or you can blow off showing up for maneuvers ity that the IDF presented for me. That and Rosh Hashanah Services: TBE. Family Service Shabbat Services: AA Reconstructionist and you’ll still be there on the front lines, just a blowing up s---. n. at 9 a.m. and Traditional Service at 11 a.m. at Havurah. Learners’ Service held first or sec- whole lot less prepared.” (Michael ripstein lives in Mazkeret Batya, israel.) EMU Pease Auditorium. Tickets required. Brief ond Saturday each month at the JCC from Each deployment brings its own political Tashlich Service with traditional readings and 10 a.m.–noon. Discussion-based format with and moral discussions. And true to the diverse Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 37 I Advertisers Amadeus Cafe/Patisserie...... 23 Interim Health Care...... 38 Ann Arbor Public School Jewish Community Center...... 40 Educational Foundation...... 18 Jewish Cultural Society...... 38 Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Havurah...... 14 Jewish Family Services...... 36 Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra...... 16 Jewish Federation...... 32, 39 The Ark...... 11, 16 Joe Cornell Entertainment...... 10 Susan Ayer Photography...... 39 Ken Lussenden...... 3 Bank of Ann Arbor...... 4 Kenville Studios...... 15 Bennett Optometry...... 9 Kerrytown Bookfest...... 5 Beth Israel Congregation...... 40 Lewis Greenspoon Architects...... 2 Bivouac...... 21 Mast Shoes...... 15 Center for Plastic and Mercy's Restaurant...... 11 Reconstructive Surgery...... 26 Michigan Theater...... 16 Chelsea Flower Shop...... 39 Modern Mechanical...... 4 Chelsea Rare Coin...... 35 MOSA Audiology...... 5 Dennis Platte Graphic Design...... 23 Pam Sjo, realtor...... 2 Fawzi's Westgate Auto Repair...... 32 People's Food Co-op...... 23 Frankel Center...... 26 Michal Porath, realtor...... 38 Gold Bond Cleaners...... 6 Probility Physical Therapies...... 21 Cantor Samuel Greenbaum; mohel...... 10 Quality Kosher Catering...... 19 Hebrew Day School...... 36 River Raisin Ragtime Band...... 16 Carol Hoffer, CLU, CASL...... 2 Tomer Kosher Foods...... 25 Holocaust Memorial Center...... 6 Simply Scrumptious...... 23 Homegrown Festival...... 23 Village Apothecary...... 2 Innovations Decor and Design...... 38 Zingerman's...... 9

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38 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 I Vitals

Mazel tov Clare Morgenstern on her bat mitzvah, September 3. Hannah Bloomfield on her bat mitzvah, September 3. Miriam Hamermesh on her bat mitzvah on September 3. Alexander Wardle on his bar mitzvah on September 10. Sophie Steinberg on her bat mitzvah, September 10. Ava Sherick on her bat mitzvah, September 17. Eva Caston on her bat mitzvah on September 17. Erez Dessel on his bar mitzvah on September 24. Ethan Stairs on his bar mitzvah, September 24. Samuel Saalberg on his bar mitzvah, September 24. Anna Paberzs, daughter of Andrew and Amy Paberzs, on her engagement to Matthew Modansky. Cara Berg, daughter of Mark and Frances Berg, on her engagement to Mike Raunick. Tom and Deborah DeZure on the marriage of their daughter, Jessica DeZure to, Josh Butchart, on July 10 and the engagement of their son, Adam DeZure, to Amanda Lehti. Brian Weiss, son of Nancy Weiss, on his marriage to Caryn Lehner. Matthew Jane and Lauren Gold on the birth of their son, Benjamin David, on July 8. Linda and Roger Grekin on the birth of their two granddaughters, Neve Rashana We wish you a happy and blessed Grekin-McKee, born on July 7, and Kara Michelle Russell, born on July 8. Gil and Kathy Stiefel on the birth of their granddaughter, Talia Shoshannah, on July 13. Aaron and Mollie Brody on the birth of their son, Ziv Eitan Brody. Steve and Joyce Gerber on the birth of their granddaughter, Savannah Isabella, daughter of Sheri and Dave Gerber-Somers. David and Maureen Ginsburg on the birth of their grandson, Saul Hirshberg, son of Leah and Alex Hirshberg. Daniel and Jane Glazer on the birth of their daughter, Lila. Rabbi Kim Blumenthal and Ira Horowitz on the birth of their son, Andrew Seth. Joshua and Sarah Hakala on the birth of their twin daughters, Lucy and Emme, grand- 2939 Birch Hollow Drive daughters of Richard and Deborah Ball. NewAnn Arbor, MI 48108 Year! Rich and Sally Adler on the birth of their first grandchild, Aaron Yaakov Jacob, son of 734-677-0100 Ruth and Danny Jacob. www.jewishannarbor.org Condolences Daniel Sherrick on the death of his wife, Ellen Moss, May 9. Merrily Hart on the death of her mother, Sophie Gorne, May 12. Al Kadis on the death of his sister, Barbara Bull, May 17. Gary Freed on the death of his brother, I.D. Freed, June 10. Dan Levin on the death of his mother, Millie Levin, June 11. Estate Planning and Planned Giving Paulette Bromberg on the death of her father, Oscar Bromberg, July 3. Harvey Michaels on the death of his mother, Esther Michaels, June 3. in Times of Change Ken Wachsberger on the death of his father, Si Wachsberger, July 5. Dorrie Rosenblatt on the death of her mother Freda Birnbaum, July 9 Jude Levinson on the death of her mother, Delphine Levinson, July 13. October 5, 2011 • 7-9PM • Jewish Community Center Katie Chosid on the death of her mother, Barbara Bockoff, July 15. 2939 Birch Hollow Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Natalie Palay on the death of her father, Morry Mitz, July 19. Martha Churchill on the death of her mother, Carol Churchill, July 21. • How Can Estate Planning Safeguard your Financial Security? Susan Orringer on the death of her father, Bernard Michaels, July 22. • How Can Planned Giving Help Meet your Philanthropic Ellen Stross on the death of Jule Berman, July 30. Jan Blaha on the death of her father, Morris Schindler. Objectives? The family of Lois Levinson on her death. • Why is the Jewish Community Foundation Essential to our Robin Aronson on the death of her father, Abraham Sherer, August 1. Communal Future? Lisa Keefauver on the death of her husband, Eric, August 16. Israel Woronoff on the death of his wife, and Gary Woronoff on the death of his mother, • What Role Can the Foundation Play in Meeting your Family Fay, August 21. Financial Needs? Come Hear: Daniel O. Brandeis – Director, United Jewish Federation Foundation Christopher L. Belcher – Vice President & Wealth Management Advisor, 5/3 Private Bank Moderated by: Joan Lowenstein, Chair, Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Ann Arbor 7:00 – 7:30 PM Kosher Wine and Dessert Reception 7:30 – 9:00 PM Program RSVP to Cindy Adams at [email protected] or 677-0100 no later than Wednesday, September 28, 2011.

Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011 39 1 Sunday, September 25 201 12:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the JCC

FESTIVITIES INCLUDE: • Jewish Organization Displays • Vendor Displays • Camp Raanana Reunion • Special Welcome to Ann Arbor Newcomers • ECC Holiday Bake Sale • Dip Apples and Honey • Lunch Available for Purchase -Kosher options are available www.jccannarbor.org with advanced notice CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES • Face Painting • Hands on Judaic Activities for All Ages • Inflatable Slides and Jumpers • Make Your Own Shofar • Clowns • Challah Braiding

If you will be joining us for the event, please submit your registration and payment by Monday, September 19. Members - $10.00 per family • $3.00 per person Non-members - $12.00 per family • $4.00 per person - Children 2 and under are free -

Advance reservations are required. To RSVP or for more information call 734-971-0990.

40 Washtenaw Jewish News A September 2011