The 5 Towns Jewish Times Hot Potatoes, Worried About What Your Career for Himself

$1.00 WWW.5TJT.COM VOL. 9 NO. 17 5 SHEVAT 5769 tc ,arp JANUARY 30, 2009

INSIDE FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK A MOST IMPORTANT MISSION Listen Up BY LARRY GORDON Hannah Reich Berman 27 MindBiz Political Observations Esther Mann, LMSW 28 The afterglow of an intense being an elected official is Long-Term Investment political season—dominated supposed to be about. Steven Genack 33 by the presidential elections One true indication of this here—has not yet faded far is that Maureen Dowd of the Letters To The Editor enough into what could even New York Times called Mr. Our Readers 36 be considered recent history. Paterson a “goofball” for the Taking into account all that way he handled the appoint- ‘We Need To Talk’ has happened politically these ment of Congresswoman Ari Sher 47 last few weeks, it seems that Kirsten Gillibrand to Hillary Governor David Paterson Clinton’s seat in the U.S. might be the one politician Senate. Not appointing On the 10th annual Hebrew Academy of Long Beach trip to Israel, DRS with the most prudent Caroline Kennedy to fill the High School graduates (L–R) Josh Weinstock, Yonatan Sklar, and Sammy approach to what best serves Solomon, accompanied by Rabbi Aryeh Cohen (at right), delivering gifts to the people, which is what Continued on Page 8 Israeli soldiers at an army base outside Be’er Sheva. Netanyahu: HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE Obama Will Try To Business Strategies

Toldos Avrohom Yitzchok Internationalize BY LARRY GORDON ment, are the yeshivos, institu- Rebbe at Katz b’ris. tions, and organizations that See Page 67 Jerusalem Sites Someone out there is mak- depend almost exclusively on ing money, but no one seems the largesse of individual B Y HANA LEVI to know who. What is known donors. JULIAN is that the country is going One thing that has been through the worst economic made clear by the recent eco- Binyamin Netanyahu, the downturn since the Depres- nomic events is that the Likud Party chairman and sion, and no one seems to experts did not possess too Knesset opposition leader, cians would try to interna- know how to get a handle on much expertise; with the top warned at the Jerusalem tionalize holy sites in it. From this vantage point, economists insisting that they Conference on Wednesday Jerusalem—and he vowed to those suffering most, aside were blindsided and never saw that the Obama administra- from individual families sud- tion and leftist Israeli politi- Continued on Page 20 denly faced with unemploy- Continued on Page 14

Mourning the loss of MK Avraham Ravitz. Lending A Helping Hand One Drop ROAD TRIP See Page 64 At A Time Another Mother’s Musings B Y PHYLLIS J. BY LAURA BEN- L UBIN DAVID 6:00 a.m.—certainly not an Who says good people are auspicious time to be on call hard to come by? In the “me- for an airport run. Being in oriented” society we live in, close proximity to JFK, we we almost expect people to have often been called upon look out for numero uno. And to make drop-offs and pick- sometimes they do. But not ups. My husband and I both Reception for always. have concluded that the drop- Yeshivat Torat Shraga. My friend sent me an off is certainly simpler than See Page 54 e-mail about a bone-marrow the pick-up. The pick-up (if donation drive for Amit you are not interested in park- CANDLE LIGHTING Kadosh, a little girl in Israel ing at the airport) entails a Jan. 30 – 4:52 PM with cancer. Touched by her two-person team. One person Feb. 6 – 5:01 PM Jonathan Kaplowitz, a.k.a. Chaverim member Q36, with NYC Councilman Jim Gennaro after giving his car a boost. See Story, Page 69 Continued on Page 16 Continued on Page 18 2 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 3 4 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 5 6 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 7

FROM THE EDITOR New York Democrats boy- professional sports, the big total team payroll below the Palestinians. The Mitchell Continued from Front Cover cotted the news conference at names and huge salaries on salary of one Yankee ballplayer appointment sadly looks like which her appointment was the Mets and Yankees couldn’t (Alex Rodriguez). Mr. nothing more than a chapter vacancy took some courage, announced, while former even get the teams into the Rodriguez is paid $25 million from a book that could be considering that Ms. Kennedy Republican Senator from playoffs last year. The Jets per season; the entire Tampa entitled Been There, Done had endorsed Barack Obama New York Alphonse D’Amato signed a big-name, $20-mil- Bay Rays payroll last season That. Mitchell’s ideas to bring for president over Hillary. The was at Ms. Gillibrand’s side, lion-a-season quarterback, was $22 million. That says a peace to the Arabs and Israelis word is that former president beaming. To Democrats, that Brett Favre, and that got them lot about what hungry and call for nothing but more Bill Clinton applied intense was seriously indicative that just as far as the baseball ambitious people can accom- Israeli concessions to the pressure on Paterson not to something was awry. teams—nowhere. That’s what plish. That’s how I categorize Palestinians and, disappoint- appoint Kennedy, because of But the Gillibrand appoint- the Kennedy appointment to Ms. Gillibrand, a good choice ingly, equating Israel’s build- her betrayal of Mrs. Clinton. ment was clearly the way to the Senate would have who will do well for her con- ing of playgrounds and homes It’s all in a day’s work. go. She’s new, ambitious, and amounted to. It would make stituents in New York. in Judea and Samaria with Leftist liberals don’t like hard-working, as well as prob- great headlines for a few days, Talking about tired, old, Hamas missile strikes into Gillibrand, despite the fact ably anxious to make a name after which Ms. Kennedy worn down, and mistaken Israel as being the catalysts that she is a Democrat; being for herself. This business of would have begun to be appointments forces me to for suicide bombings. from upstate New York has New York’s desiring or per- pulled apart by the same shift over to President This false start and disin- pushed her politics too much haps needing to be identified media that initially built her Obama’s selection of former genuous peace effort is fur- to the center for the taste of with big names to go with the up so high. senator George Mitchell as ther illustrated by Mitchell’s the downstate political city bright lights on Broadway has To stay with the sports special Middle East envoy— appearance in Israel ten days slickers. One sure sign of her probably peaked and already analogy, you probably know the latest diplomat chosen to before Israelis go to the polls independence and free think- demonstrated its uselessness. which baseball team made it bring peace between Israel to select a new leader. The ing is that many of the usual To borrow an analogy from into the World Series with a and the violence-bent odd thing is that these peace brokers or negotiators usually spend a disproportionate amount of their time trying to pressure Israel to withdraw from territory, reassure them of the need for national secu- rity, or encourage them to extricate people from the homes they’ve lived in for decades. These misplaced efforts usually end in failure, because the focus is misdi- rected. Both Israel and the U.S. are in fundamental agreement that the way to go is a two-state solution—Israel and Palestine living side-by- side in peace. Unfortunately or fortunately—depending on how you view these things—the Arabs involved in the process reject the idea of a two-state solution and prefer, instead, a one-state solution. That is, without Israel being one of those states. So what is it that is new and refreshing or that can be a breakthrough for peace that George Mitchell can bring with him on his new/old mission? Where is the fresh spirit that our new president was supposed to bring into the Oval Office? With Mitchell doing the steering, the two sides in the Arab-Israel conflict will continue to travel along parallel lines, probably never meeting at any point. If Mr. Mitchell wants to advance the process, he needs to get real and stop fantasizing about Israel’s with- drawing to pre-1967 borders, uprooting 350,000 Jews from Judea and Samaria, and hand- ing over East Jerusalem so that the new Palestine can establish a capital there. As long as this is the objective, there will be meetings, conferences, and even sum- mits, but no advancement toward lasting peace. Both sides have become word- smiths and manipulators of parlance. They say words and issue statements that seem to

Continued on Page 10 8 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 9 FROM THE EDITOR ously entertain the notion of full with- FEATURES Continued from Front Cover drawal to pre-1967 borders and the division of Jerusalem. Around The Five Towns 44 mean one thing, but closer legal and Yes, Israel talks about a Palestinian P.O. BOX 690 LAWRENCE, NY 11559 Talmudic scrutiny reveal that they capital in Jerusalem, but the Jewish 516-984-0079 Book Review actually mean something else, if not vision of such a concession is far dif- [email protected] the exact opposite of what the original ferent than what the Arab world thinks [email protected] Ari Sher 47 words seemed to mean. it is. It is as if I promised you a debut LARRY GORDON ESTA J. GORDON If Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Obama real- on Broadway for your play and then Publisher/Editor Managing Editor Classified Ads 74 ly wanted to accomplish something you found out just before showtime YOSSI GORDON, YOCHANAN GORDON and be genuine about the process this Sales Managers Daf Yomi Insights time around, they would reverse the CHANA ROCHEL ROSS Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow 24 negotiating formula. When this Editorial Assistant process began more than 15 years ago, SIDI BARON Five Towns Simcha it was thought that issues like The fact that the issue of YAKOV SERLE JERRY MARKOVITZ Ira Thomas Creations 80 Jerusalem and settlement growth were too contentious and would bog down the future of Jerusalem Sales Representatives Jeff Neckonoff 80 the talks. Today, all these years later, SHMUEL GERBER MICHELE JUSTIC may even be an agenda Chief Copy Editor Copy Editor Halachic Musings the fact that the issue of the future of Jerusalem may even be an agenda item item up for discussion CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Rabbi Yair Hoffman 22 Irwin H. Benjamin, Hannah Reich Berman up for discussion creates a coalition Anessa V. Cohen, Rabbi Aryeh Z. Ginzberg crisis in Israel’s government. At the creates a coalition crisis Toby Klein Greenwald, Michele Herenstein Insights On The Torah same time, the Palestinians are led to in Israel’s government. Rabbi Yair Hoffman, Miriam Horowitz Rabbi Yanki Tauber 60 believe, perhaps secretly, that at the Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky end of the process (wherever and Shmuel Katz, Phyllis J. Lubin, Esther Mann Chevrah Lomdei Mishnah 32 Rochelle Miller, Martin Mushell, Naomi Ross whenever that may be) they will have Rabbi Avrohom Sebrow, Eli Shapiro, Ari Sher Letters To The Editor 36 an independent state and, in some MICHAL WEINSTEIN, BINYAMIN RHODES form, Jerusalem will be that new that I was referring to Broadway in DOV GORDON Luach 15 state’s capital city. Monticello, New York, not the Great Staff Graphic Artists Ladies and gentlemen involved in White Way in Manhattan. You would- these peace talks, be bold, be coura- n’t be too thrilled about that. In fact, IVAN NORMAN, IRA THOMAS MindBiz Staff Photographers geous, and, most importantly, tell the you would be justified to feel deluded FRANKEL & CO. Esther Mann, LMSW 28 truth to your counterparts so that they and seethe at being so misled. Design & Production know what they are dealing with. No Whoever wins the February 10 elec- TALIYE CORLEY Real Estate Israeli government can give up or even tion in Israel has to clearly articulate Art Director Anessa V. Cohen 48 divide Jerusalem to the satisfaction of the position that Jerusalem is the pres- any Arab party to the talks (no matter ent and future united capital city of The Five Towns Jewish Times is an independent weekly news- paper. Opinions expressed by writers and columnists are not That’s The Way It Is! how “moderate” they claim to be) and Israel. It will be difficult for those rep- necessarily those of the editor or publisher. We are not survive. There will be peace only when resenting the Palestinian Arabs to fath- Hannah Reich Berman 27 responsible for the kashrus or hashgachah of any product or Israel stops deluding the Arab world establishment advertised in the Five Towns Jewish Times. into thinking that Israel will ever seri- Continued on Page 17

10 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 11 12 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 13 HEARD IN THE BAGEL STORE imbalance and upset the entire taking place right beneath our feet. The reason for the constantly dwin- Continued from Front Cover momentum of the fund’s earning Maybe you feel it and maybe you dling baseline income level to be eligi- power? If you are making 15% a year don’t feel it all that much—or perhaps ble for this payment is that the govern- it coming. That’s hard to believe, con- on your money while everyone else is not just yet. One thing is certain: ment doesn’t have the money to send sidering that traditionally, and like the making 1% or less, you can begin to companies are laying off people by the the checks to the low-income earners, Talmud says, money travels in a cycli- talk yourself into anything. thousands in all industries every- so they had to keep reconfiguring the cal fashion. Today it’s here and tomor- At the same time, the evil geniuses where across the board—accounting cutoff point. It’s questionable whether row it’s gone. One day this guy has it in the investment market might have firms, law firms, Home Depot, this stimulus payment is going to do and the next morning you wake up and also possessed something of a mob General Motors. anything to jumpstart the American someone else has earned it. mentality. Investing in this reckless In response to the downward spiral economy. The experts that are still There’s an old joke that was told to fashion apparently became the way to in the economy—the economic down- claiming to be experts are split on the me a few years ago about how to invest do it. People at the top of these once turn, as some refer to it—President issue. Mr. Obama wants to get the money. The line is that if you want to magical funds saw others getting away Obama has a plan to get checks into checks in the mail regardless, because invest money with someone in Israel, with it, so they did it too. Of course, the mail of between $500 and $1,000 it was one of his key campaign then you are best off doing so with the sad scoundrel at the top of the per family so that people can go out issues—his reward to you for voting someone that has experience. This heap is now Bernard Madoff, but he and spend the money and get the him into office. way, they will get the money and you seems to be attracting new company nation’s economy moving again. Are The Obama administration has also will now have the experience. That on a daily basis. This entire lurid you going to see any of that money? announced that it is going to very doesn’t necessarily apply only to episode in the financial history of this Maybe, maybe not. carefully oversee how the second part investment managers in Israel. country reminds me of the old game of During the campaign for the presi- of the Wall Street/banking bailout Obviously it applies everywhere, with musical chairs that we used to play as dency, Mr. Obama said that as far as package of $350 billion will be spent. so-called hedge fund managers pop- kids. When the music stops, there’s a his economic plan is concerned, any- Does that mean that no one was ping up with the admission that they possibility you will be left standing— one making less than $250,000 will watching or that there was no over- were not really investing your money no place to sit and no place to go. get a tax break. In subsequent appear- sight mechanism in place to monitor but actually just keeping it for them- The word on the street is that those ances, that figure was downsized to how the first $350 billion was spent? selves and reluctantly paying out gen- investing in these funds that paid $200,000—and later, by Vice- We know the money was awarded to erous dividends when they had to. sometimes up to 40% annually knew President Biden, to $150,000. The so- banks and some Wall Street firms so On the matter of hedge funds, I that something risky and certainly not called tax cut comes in the form of that as to loosen up the credit markets. read that one very successful such kosher was taking place. So long as it check referenced above being sent to Those markets are as constricted and fund (no longer functioning) had the was working (they were getting paid you so that you can spend it shopping limited as ever. So what happened to following rule: you could make one and no one was talking about it), they in your favorite stores. the money? All bonuses? withdrawal annually and you had to figured that they’d just let it slide—“it” The problem from the start with this So money is tight. But that isn’t give your fund manager 90 days’ being the money sliding right into their equation is that lower income earners, stopping rents from going up or ven- notice to make the withdrawal. If that bank accounts. Today you can take a families earning collectively less than dors from raising prices. Prices at the in and of itself is not a suspicious look at your bank statement and see $40,000 a year, will also get this gas pump are inching up as a way of ground rule, then I just don’t know that the interest rate being paid by alleged tax cut, even though they do gauging how much consumers are what a red flag is. What is an investor your favorite conventional banking not pay any federal taxes. In other going to tolerate until they once to believe? That the fund was busy institution is about 1.2%. You can rest words, it’s a rebate on something that again curtail driving habits and push making so much money overseas that assured that all is kosher there. you never paid in the first place. Oh, prices back down. any movement that disturbed the A redefinition of our relationship so it’s not a rebate, it’s a gift—so why I feel mostly for the men and financial equilibrium would cause an with money, a seismic shift of sorts, is didn’t someone say so? women who have been coming to New

14 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

York from Israel for many years as a way of supporting their families and the institutions they work for. Gradually the spigot has dried up. Many who used to give relatively modest sums are not doing so, and those who can still afford to be philanthrop- ic are doing what they can, but that usually means less. This has left many in a quandary. The situation is compounded by the pressure from community institutions that are pressur- ing locals to keep their charitable dol- lars in the community and let others deal with the concerns in those other communities. A survey done last year asked Americans across the country what type of financial planning they were doing for their retirement years. The most popular answer: purchasing lottery tickets each week. Granted, the odds are against winning, but how much can you really lose? O Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at [email protected]. CALENDAR LUACH Jan. 30-Feb. 7 ZIP Code: 11516

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 15

One Drop At A Time forms, and each received a little pur- such a big turnout. They were over- Continued from Front Cover ple collection vial to hold on to. With whelmed by the outpouring of love the blood we would put into this vial, and support. In fact they were con- story, I thought I would join my friend we would become registered in Ezer stantly calling for more and more and stop by the mall in Jerusalem on Mizion’s international Bone Marrow medical personnel to drop everything the way home to do our part. I figured Donor Registry. We then joined the to come and volunteer to help. And with the low response these things typ- disorganized mass of people that was people kept on coming. ically get, if I had the time and ability slowly inching closer to the under- I barely felt the small gauge needle I would do it. We headed over to the staffed tables without any semblance pierce my vein. For me the good feel- mall expecting to find a folding table of order. We looked around us and ing of being a part of all this can- staffed by a couple of medical sorts discovered something as phenomenal celled out the tiny pinprick. But right who would take blood samples from as the number of people: the demo- next to me was a cringing young any volunteers who came by. It was graphics were completely across the woman who was obviously afraid of just going to be a quick pit stop as we board! Men and women, young and Amit Kadosh needles. I was so impressed to see her didn’t have much else to do in the mall old, rich and poor, secular and hare- rise above her fear to do something at that time. one can take when the issue is the she felt was so important. Afterward As luck would have it, the parking life of a little girl. we saw many people walking around lot was exceptionally crowded. After- One sick little girl with a desperate with one sleeve rolled up, a square of school and after-work crowds, no After all, there need for a bone marrow match white gauze taped inside the elbow. doubt. We maneuvered our way into a turned what seemed like the whole To me it seemed less of a bandage tight parking spot and entered the aren’t too many country into willing donors. All and more of a badge of pride worn mall. We found ourselves a bit around us happy people were clamor- proudly for all to see, uniting so many stunned by the density of the crowd. opposing sides one ing to give their little vial of blood in Israelis and tourists alike. What was going on? A huge closeout the hope that any of us givers could In fact, I was completely stunned on underwear? Was Burger King giv- can take when the be the one who might save this little when I realized that the Jerusalem ing out free Whoppers? In fact, the girl’s, or at least someone’s, life. It mall was one of over 85 test centers! closer we got to the main center aisle issue is the life of was like we each possessed a lottery Israel is not such a big country—if of the mall, we began to notice peo- ticket whose numbers we could not the other testing sites had anything ple converging on one particular a little girl. decipher. If only the one with the close to what was going on at the mall area: where they were set up to take winning lottery ticket would come then this was a truly astonishing the blood samples for Ezer Mizion’s forward. Of course in this circum- turnout. Was it due to great market- bone marrow drive. It was unbeliev- stance everyone would have been ing? Was it because the little girl is able. I would expect people to wait on di and everything in between; all overjoyed if anyone possessed the adorable? Was it simply that underly- lines like these to buy tickets to a big- were standing there together, united “winning” ticket. ing realization that this could have name concert. But to see if they qual- for a common cause in the middle of Finally it was my turn to fill a vial been anyone’s daughter? Maybe all of ify to go through a potentially painful the mall. with a drop of blood. We asked the the above. Regardless, thousands of procedure to save the life of a little With so many issues that divide us, overworked, yet still smiling, collec- people had taken time out of their girl they’d never met? Yet they were it is always a truly remarkable experi- tion station director why they didn’t busy day to give to a stranger. This all there for exactly that reason. ence when we can stand together arrange to have enough volunteers to was the Jewish nation at its finest. We squeezed our way over to the united for a common cause. After all, handle the large crowds. We were And, one drop at a time, we filled an registration table, filled out our there aren’t too many opposing sides told that they simply never expected ocean of love. O

16 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES FROM THE EDITOR and that if we draw a line between Continued from Page 10 Jews and Arabs everything will be solved. This is a mistake! The conflict om. They will say that this position will is a religious war and it’s about oppos- cause all talks on other issues to fail. ing the people of Israel’s right to have That’s okay; there’s nothing wrong a state at all,” he told the crowd. with that. They’ll just need some time “Arabs are not traitors in the state to absorb this reality. of Israel,” Eldad continued. “They Once that’s done and there are no are the enemy in the state of Israel.” misleading statements, outright lies, Arabs in Israel who seek to under- and reversing of positions previously mine the nature of the state should enunciated, then we may be able to be transferred to Jordan, “where get somewhere. The first one who most Palestinians are located,” he needs to be told the news is Mr. determined. Mitchell. It will probably leave him The solution to the Israel- speechless, which may not be so bad Palestinian conflict is “ending the after all. O occupation,” Eldad said. “I mean the Comments for Larry Gordon are welcome at Arab occupation of the land of Israel [email protected]. 1,300 years ago,” he clarified. “Large parts of the land of Israel are still N NN under occupation: Gaza, Hevron, the Temple Mount, and the like.” Eldad, Tibi Face Off At Bar Ilan Tibi attacked Jewish residents of B Y MAAYANA MISKIN Judea and Samaria. “They are the true poison, that tries to cement the MK Aryeh Eldad of the National occupation,” he accused. “The set- Union and MK Ahmed Tibi, chair- tlers—not a single one of them will man of the Ra’am Ta’al Knesset fac- remain,” in Judea and Samaria, Tibi tion, debated at Bar Ilan University predicted. “They will all be expelled on Monday. The debate was original- or make a diplomatic deal with the ly scheduled to be held last week, but state of Israel.” was postponed because Ra’am Ta’al Jewish residents of Judea and was involved in an appeal to the High Samaria who wish to remain in their Court of an elections committee homes may seek citizenship in decision to ban it from running in the “Palestine” after such a state is creat- upcoming Knesset election. ed, Tibi said. Eldad ridiculed the sug- Eldad said the conflict between gestion, saying, “A Jew wouldn’t live Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and more than a few minutes before being other Arab groups is not over territory. killed under a Palestinian regime, as “Our mistake is in thinking that the Fatah supporters did not survive under Israel-Palestinian conflict is territorial Hamas.” (Arutz Sheva) O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 17 Mother’s Musings Naftali was chosen to participate in motel to stop off along the way, sud- Almost an hour and a half after our Continued from Front Cover an “Alternative Break” program in denly catapulted into discovering an missed turn-off to the Whitestone Israel with about 40 other young entire two bedroom Pocono villa for Bridge, we were back for round two, drives around the airport countless adults from various colleges through- the same price of two rooms at a motel but this time I was prepared in the times, while the other waits in the out the CUNY system. For 10 days he (thank goodness for efficient Internet left lane. And so the two hour trip to arrival area waiting to spot the “pick- volunteered with his peers at an research). And of course, while perus- East Stroudsburg, Pa. turned into upee.” A drop-off doesn’t require much absorption center in Netanya, spack- ing the Pocono Mountain websites, three and a half! Fortunately our villa hands-on involvement. From the view- ling and painting apartment buildings, there was no way to ignore the avail- was ready and we were prepared to point of the traveler, the pick-up is of while bonding with new olim from ability of skiing in the same area. With transform it into our home for the more value. After arriving from a long Ethiopia. The smiling faces of the res- skiing discount coupons in tow, we next couple of days (in a few minutes flight from afar, the thought of seeking idents, both young and old, gave began our trip early Wednesday morn- time we transformed that cute, neat, out an impersonal taxi driver is not too Naftali and his friends all the reward ing. With both our Google directions two bedroom home into chaos— inviting. I find the pick-up, although they needed! and the GPS (that we dubbed “Tina”) clothes strewn about, all our food more difficult and time consuming, Naftali was fortunate to be able to borrowed from Naftali, there was no spread out in the kitchen, and Yussie more gratifying. Trudging through the extend his stay for an additional three stopping us! Until… claiming both the remote and the mayhem of the arrivals area, when you weeks and live with my brother Jacob, One small wrong turn—how was I couch as his own). After ironing out finally spot your loved one(s), your his wife Haviva, and their brood of six to know that I needed to be in the left who was sleeping where that night, heart skips a beat and to the arriver, in Baka, Jerusalem. He got a brief taste lane to make it to the Whitestone we were ready to drive to Shawnee you are truly a hero! of living in Israel and learned a bit Bridge? Google didn’t tell me, and Mountain for some skiing. And so, this fine Sunday morning, about Israel’s growing technologies as even “Tina” did not warn us! Once I Before venturing to the ski moun- after we got the call at 6:14 a.m. that a volunteer in my brother’s office. noticed the error of my ways it was too tain, I noticed that our gas tank was the plane had landed, no matter how Alas Naftali missed seeing his other late—I am not a maven on switching on empty (perhaps because of my commonplace air travel has become, I collegiate sibling before her return to lanes and especially not last minute detour through L.I.C.?). I was forced was able to breathe a sigh of relief. school. The team: Rivka, Rochel, changes with huge trucks speeding to venture into a self-serve gas station. Our eldest son, Naftali, was finally Yussie, Lea, and I deposited the eldest by—and so somehow I ended up on I pulled up and went into the little home from his month-long excursion Lubin girl (who still remains nameless) Northern Boulevard. No worry, “Tina” house and politely explained my to Israel! Spotting him in the airport in Binghamton last Thursday. As ful- would get me back in the right direc- dilemma to the young girl on duty and through the crowds of people felt like filling as my last trip to B.U. was, the tion…NOT! Somehow, she had recal- she very cordially came out to show I had won the lottery! We had arrived thought of driving over five hours culated and decided that we should be me how self serve was done. She start- at the airport too early (by 6:30 we straight and five hours back in one day taking the Midtown Tunnel! As expert ed the process and I actually put the had begun our rounds in the airport), again was not that inviting (remember as I have become recently on highway gas in the tank myself! (I had but when I saw Naftali’s smiling face that “typical” drivers make the trip in driving, a drive through Manhattan announced some time ago that I at 7:20 a.m. I knew our trip was appre- under four hours, but as I tend to drive was out of the question. And so I would never learn to self-serve gas— ciated! The warm feeling of family way below the speed limit, it takes a bit somehow (after not being able to con- well, never say never! I learned how togetherness was felt as we entered longer). And so, with HAFTR on win- tact my husband or my Dad to navigate and I found it fun!) the house. Yussie ran into Naftali’s ter break (and my husband’s tax season me) managed to make it back from After we signed the eldest three arms and Lea’s glee was felt by all. just beginning), I decided to let Yussie Long Island City, to familiar Kew Lubins up for skiing lessons, Yussie, “Naftali’s home!” Yussie announced to play hooky from school for some much Garden Hills in the nick of time: Lea Lea, and I proceeded to the ski lodge his still somewhat sleeping siblings. needed family bonding time, and made had to “make” badly. A kind restaurant for some ski viewing. Although I came Naftali was home and all was well this trip to B.U. into a mini-vacation. worker allowed Lea to use the facilities equipped with numerous snacks and with the world. What started out as a quest for a little on Main Street. drinks, we needed to check out the

18 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES snack bar for some possible extra always nervous about Yussie sleeping he had no “C.B. on board.” Finally a (of course it needed to be on at that nutrition. Yussie spotted some individ- in a different environment, and rescue type truck came slowly by along time) and it was my eldest daughter ual bowls of cereal: Frosted Flakes for although he went to sleep much later the shoulder and stopped to get one of calling from B.U. Yussie and Raisin Bran for Lea (which than usual, he managed to remain our “neighbor’s” cars out of the shoul- “What are you doing up so late?” she I’d never seen Lea eat, but she insisted sleeping until his usual morning hour der in front of him so that he could get asked in awe. that she had eaten it at Grandma and and was ready to eat breakfast by 7:00 through. “What is going on?” I asked “What’s wrong?” I asked tentatively. Zayde’s house and loved it) and for $2 a.m.! Lea followed shortly after, and rather calmly after waiting with a van “I did something stupid…I left my a bowl (which I usually get for 3/$1) I somehow I was able to get the elder full of kids (two of whom needed a bag of shoes in the car.” announced that they had better love it! girls up and out for a quick swim in the bathroom, another was too hot, while Friday morning arrived and as we As I handed over the money to the indoor pool before we packed up the another was too cold, and Yussie, packed up the car to make the trek cashier, she politely pointed out that college girl for the trip to B.U. Of draining my battery with Uncle back to Shawnee Mountain for the each bowl comes with a pint of “free” course, we left a little later than Moishe for the ten billionth time. 9:00 a.m. snow tubing session, Rikva milk—now that was truly a bargain: a planned, but well within my plan to be “Truck fire. Should get it cleared out noticed a key feature of the schedule whole meal for $2! As we took our pur- back in the Poconos before nightfall. within the hour.” Not sounding too that I had somehow overlooked: no chases to the tables, we discovered a The trip was truly going smoothly good for my plan to return to the villa 9:00 a.m. session on Friday—just on spot right in front of a huge picture despite Lea being “shmoiling” and before nightfall—at this rate, getting weekends! And so, we had a change of window looking out at the skiers on Yussie needing to watch the same out of Binghamton by nightfall wasn’t plans, much to Yussie’s initial dismay the mountain. We tried to spot our Uncle Moishe DVD 17 billion times, even looking good. (he doesn’t take to last minute changes crew, and Yussie insisted that everyone when suddenly, a mere half hour from When we finally rolled into B.U. at of plans too well) and switched into who came down the slopes in front of Binghamton, traffic stopped dead. We 5:00 p.m. we were happy that we had swim gear for a last swim in the pool us was Rochel—could be… Somehow, were parked on the I81 North for finally made it! The two-hour excur- before our return home. between the cereal, the arcade (Lea’s almost two hours without knowing why! sion from Pennsylvania had become a I am happy to report that our return air hockey arm is still aching), and the We called everyone we could think of to four-hour one. Suffice it to say that home was completely uneventful rolling in the snow, we managed to share our traffic woes and we made between unpacking my eldest daugh- (aside from the usual bathroom and entertain ourselves as the big girls contact with husband Lenny at work, ter’s stuff from the van to the room gas stops) and we arrived home in time enjoyed their skiing education. my mom at work, my in-laws vacation- and visiting the much needed Dollar to make it to Brach’s before the doors Of course, with the delay in arriving in Florida, and even my brother Store that Rochel and Rivka had completely locked for the day! ing in the Poconos we ended up driv- Jacob in Israel. Lenny checked all the looked forward to, and the trip to both And so, with our mini-vacation ing back the three miles to the resort traffic reports he could think of and Wal-Mart and Giant Foods and self- behind us, the shoes hopefully on in the pitch black darkness of night. could not find this one. I dared not turn serving some more gas, we didn’t get their way back via Stephanie, another A frightening experience which fur- on the local news and disturb Yussie’s back on the road until 7:00 p.m. Even B.U. student, my eldest daughter safe- ther reminded me that we certainly Uncle Moishe video! But no matter Yussie was quieted by the total dark- ly in her dorm room, and our eldest could not manage these roads again what, we had no choice but to wait. ness and didn’t notice that we had not son, Naftali, safely in his bedroom, I in the darkness, and we surely need- I had the opportunity to get out of played Uncle Moishe at all. My full can sleep soundly tonight in the ed to be back from B.U. before night- the car and meet the “neighbors.” One attention was required for this ride in knowledge that tomorrow everyone fall the next day! couple was returning from a trip to the dark! We somehow got back to our goes back to school! O After feasting on bagels and cream Florida and on their way to returning home away from home by about 9:45 Phyllis Joy Lubin is an attorney with Rosenfeld & cheese and other assorted nosherei (I to Syracuse, and another young chap p.m. After a very late dinner of miscel- Maidenbaum, LLP, who resides in Cedarhurst am still trying to watch myself—only was on his way back to Binghamton as laneous delicacies, I got everyone with her husband Leonard and six children: Naftali, Shoshana, Rivka, Rochel, Yosef, and one bagel for me), everyone settled well. A pleasant truck driver on his way asleep (including myself) by midnight. Lea. She welcomes your questions and comments down to watch mindless T.V. I am to Canada did not have any news since At about 1:00 a.m. my cell phone rang at [email protected].

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 19 Netanyahu would have been choked.” Moreover, he Continued from Front Cover said, transferring sovereignty over those areas to the Palestinian Authority is not an fight the move. option. “Everyone knows what will hap- Netanyahu told the audience, “Some pen if we were to leave those areas and politicians are trying to blur the impor- divide Jerusalem. Someone will enter— tance of the Temple Mount to the Jewish and that someone will be Hamas.” People by referring to it as the ‘Holy Dividing the capital, or resurrecting Basin.’ We, as Jews, know who built the the specter of internationalizing the Temple Mount.” The term “Holy Basin” “Holy Basin,” this time at the recommen- refers to the area of the Temple Mount, dation of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary the Mount of Olives, Mount Zion, and a Clinton, would cause more problems variety of Christian holy sites which the even for the international community administration of former U.S. President that it would solve, he added. The three Bill Clinton recommended be adminis- major religions of the world exist in tered under a “special regime.” peace, having access to all their sites, only This raises the issue of who would because Jerusalem is united and under administer the Temple Mount, since at Israeli rule, Netanyahu contended, present the Wakf Islamic Authority con- adding in deliberately Hebrew-accented trols the site, albeit under Israeli sover- English, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!” eignty. Moreover, the Arab neighborhoods After Netanyahu’s Jerusalem surrounding the Temple Mount, home to Conference speech, he convened with tens of thousands of Israeli Arab residents, his fellow party member Dr. Yuval are also a part of greater Jerusalem, and Steinitz and Ichud Leumi (National thereby fall into the same discussion. Union) Party Chairman Yaakov Katz. Former Prime Minister Netanyahu, Katz asked the Likud chairman what who will likely return to his old leader- his plans are for a coalition after the ship role after the February 10 Israel Israeli elections. Netanyahu respond- elections, repeatedly emphasized the ed, “We will establish a broad coalition Likud’s loyalty to the concept of a unit- based on all the Zionist parties—blue ed Jerusalem. “We have demonstrated and orange.” [Orange is the color asso- in the past, and will continue to demon- ciated with the Ichud Leumi (National strate our commitment to a complete, Union) party and its supporters]. undivided Jerusalem,” Netanyahu The meeting between Netanyahu and assured a packed hall at the Jerusalem Katz was held in a positive atmosphere Regency Hotel, where he opened the with reciprocal intentions for developing final day of the Jerusalem Conference. a close working relationship. Katz later “What would have happened had we told reporters, “Only a strong Ichud not built all those neighborhoods” around Leumi in the Knesset will insure that all the central part of the capital after the Six- the good intentions of the government Day War, Netanyahu asked. “Jerusalem will be implemented.” (Arutz Sheva) O

20 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 21

The Swearing-In Ceremony And Jewish Law

BY RABBI YAIR HOFFMAN and the same errors were to be made, what would Jewish law have to say The recent debacle regarding about the matter? President Obama’s oath of office raises The wording of Jewish blessings was some interesting questions. If we recall, established by a group of people called both Chief Justice John Roberts and the Anshei K’nesses HaGedolah—the President Obama made errors in regard Men of the Great Assembly. The to the exact wording of the oath. The Talmud informs us that this group con- error was rectified the next day when sisted of the biblical figure Ezra and President Obama took the oath of the members of his legal court. When office once again. How would the prin- they established their wording of the ciples of halachah, Jewish law, apply in blessings, they enacted legislation con- regard to the wording that was used? cerning errors of formulation. Ideally, it The correct wording, as found in is not permitted to change the formula- Article II, Section 1 of the tion of a benediction. If one did so, Constitution, is: “I do solemnly swear however, as long as the content was not (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute significantly changed, then it is still the Office of President of the United valid. If the content was altered signif- States, and will to the best of my icantly, then the benediction is to be Ability, preserve, protect and defend considered invalid. the Constitution of the United States.” Roberts’s change was, of course, for- The words “so help me God” are cus- bidden. However, since the change tomarily added when taking the oath. involved only the order of the words Chief Justice John Roberts changed without significantly altering the the order of the words—both in his ini- meaning, it would have been, ipso tial statement and when he repeated it facto, valid if the halachic rules were to after realizing his mistake—in the apply. (If the word “faithfully” had phrase “Office of the President of the been omitted entirely, then the oath United States.” Obama was initially would not be valid.) confused by the fact that Roberts left Not only should the taking of the oath out the word “faithfully,” and said, “I have been ipso facto valid, but according will execute the Office of President of to Jewish law it would have been forbid- the United States faithfully…” den to redo the oath—as President If the oath of office were to have the same standing as a Jewish blessing, Continued on Page 26

22 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 23

Daf Yomi Insights

Forcing The Issue many of these individuals who “just B Y RABBI AVROHOM don’t want to get married” do end up SEBROW getting married without the beating, so perhaps they are not married because There has been considerable discus- they didn’t find the right one.) sion in this publication about an inci- However, before beis din runs to dent that allegedly took place where a acquire baseball bats and nun chucks group of individuals took action to stop to beat the unsuspecting singles, they a group of people from committing should see the Rema. He writes what they believed to be a sin. As you “Nowadays, it is the custom not to use can see, I am trying my utmost to be force.” It seems apparent from the neutral. Not commenting at all on that Rema that according to the strict inter- incident, the theoretical question is, pretation of the law, even a modern should one ever physically hurt some- day beis din has the power to physical- one to stop him from violating Torah ly coerce a person to marry. However, law? My answer will be based on the it is just not the custom to do so. daf and will be applicable to a time The Ketzos HaChoshen writes that period 200 years ago. That notwith- the license to physically coerce a person standing, I did find it to be an interest- to do a mitzvah is limited to a beis din. ing topic so I decided to write about it. Moreover, even beis din only has that The Shulchan Aruch writes (Even right to use physical force because they Haezer 1:63) “It is a mitzvah for every are considered agents of the rabbinical man to marry a woman… And some- courts of long ago. The rabbinical courts one who passed [the appropriate age] at the time of the Mishnah were led by and doesn’t want to marry, the rabbini- Torah experts who were ordained by cal court forces him to marry to fulfill rabbis, who were in turn ordained by the mitzvah of procreation.” When the other rabbis who could trace their rab- Shulchan Aruch writes “forces,” it binical lineage all the way back to means physically. Beis din has a right Moshe Rabbeinu. Only those judges to hit an individual until he agrees to who have been ordained by rabbis who marry. This would be a great solution in turn have an unbroken chain of ordi- to the shidduch crisis. Beis din should nation stemming all the way back from just beat up all those older singles who Moshe Rabbeinu have the innate right “just don’t want to get married” and to compel a person to fulfill a mitzvah by instantly we’ll have many more candi- force. However, when the judges of long dates in the shidduch pool. (Although ago saw that the chain of ordination was

24 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES soon to be broken they appointed future may use force to stop a person from judges as agents to act on their behalf. committing a sin. Even though judges at the time of the However, one other point must be Shulchan Aruch did not have the innate raised. The Nesivos’s proof that a per- right to physically compel people to son who is not a member of beis din comply with Torah law, they were able can compel a stranger to abstain from to do so anyway as agents of the rabbini- an aveirah is from the scenario of a cal court of over a thousand years ago. master being permitted to hit his slave However, the Nesivos Hamishpat (in to stop him from engaging in immoral Torah discussion he was the Ketzos’s behavior. The person who is being hit nemesis) disagrees. He cites a daf from has some type of relationship with and this week’s learning. The Gemara (Bava is subservient to the person compelling Kama 27b-28a) discusses whether or him to comply. Perhaps the permit to not a person may take the law into his use physical force is limited to such a own hands. The Gemara is discussing case? The Toras Emes (SvT 86) feels it the permit to physically attack someone is not. The Gemara is discussing a sit-

If you nevertheless feel the need to engage in physical force, may I humbly suggest a good game of hockey?

(one case involved a garden hoe) to uation where in fact the relationship retrieve stolen property or prevent prop- between them has already ended. The erty from being stolen. The Gemara eved already “served” his time and is cited a proof in which an owner of an now free to go. The relationship eved Ivri whose work term had expired between the former master and former was allowed to beat him to force him to slave is halachically the same as the leave his premises. Whereupon, the relationship between two total Gemara countered with a variant strangers. The Yam Shel Shlomo (3:9) understanding of the incident. The concurs. He rules that any individual owner was beating the eved Ivri because may even use physical force against a he was living with a woman who was total stranger to compel him to comply forbidden to him. To compel him to with Torah law. Further, he sides with stop doing an aveirah, the owner was the Nesivos that the license is not lim- allowed to use physical force. There is ited to abstention from aveiros but one no disagreement mentioned in the may even use physical force to compel Gemara on this point. It seems to be an a stranger to do a mitzvah. undisputed fact that one may use force Now, before you go around beating to stop a person from committing a sin. people up, let me cite what else the The Nesivos concludes from this Maharshal (author of Yam Shel Gemara that even an ordinary Joe Shlomo) wrote. He wrote that one (more clarification later) has this should not be quick to use physical right... The owner being discussed was force; verbal rebuke should be not a member of beis din, yet he still attempted first. The license to use was allowed to beat the eved. This force is limited to a person who has a seems to disprove the Ketzos that only well-established reputation of being beis din can use physical force. righteous, so that there can be no The Ketzos HaChoshen wrote a sefer doubt he is acting for the sake of heav- to defend his opinions from all the en. Further, he must be an exceptional attacks offered by the Nesivos against accomplished Torah scholar whose him, aptly called “Meshovaiv Nesivos.” words should be listened to. To qualify In it, the Ketzos concedes that any for this permit to use force, the indi- individual, even someone who is not a vidual need not be a member of beis member of beis din, can physically din, but he must be a gadol b’Yisrael. compel a person to abstain from an (Otherwise he is not muflag, excep- aveirah as we see from the owner of tional) This strict limitation basically the eved Ivri. However, he maintains knocks all of us out and makes much that only beis din can physically com- of this discussion moot. If you never- pel a person to actively do a mitzvah. theless feel the need to engage in phys- (In most cases this revolves around ical force, may I humbly suggest a aseh and lo saseh. Anyone can stop an good game of hockey? (Although, the individual from violating a negative permit to cause pain in a hockey game precept but only beis din can compel is itself a discussion for another time.) an individual to fulfill a positive one.) However, as a reminder: this whole The simple reading of the Shulchan discussion is a theoretical one, con- Aruch quoted above seems to bear this cerning what you would do if you were out. There is a positive mitzvah to living 200 years ago (and managed to marry, and the Shulchan Aruch says find someone who knew about hock- beis din compels him. (Although, R’ ey). Further, if you disagree with any- Dovid Pavarsky suggested that perhaps thing I wrote, don’t beat yourself up only beis din has an absolute obligation over it. We can meet on the ice. O to act. Perhaps any individual may act if he deems it appropriate like the Rabbi Sebrow leads a daf yomi chaburah at Eitz Chayim of Dogwood Park in West Hempstead Nesivos holds.) To wit: Both the Ketzos and is an outreach professional at JEP of LI. He and Nesivos agree that any individual can be contacted at [email protected]. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 25

Swearing-In Ceremony Continued from Page 22

Obama did the day after his inauguration—since reciting an unnecessary benediction is also forbidden (since it includes G-d’s name). Indeed, the language of the Talmud that quotes the third of the Ten Commandments, of not taking the Name of G-d in vain, seems to imply that an unnecessary benediction (or a benediction said in vain) is actually forbidden by Biblical decree and not merely by rabbinic legislation. This, however, seems to be a debate among the medieval rabbis. Maimonides (Rambam), in his magnum opus on Jewish law entitled Mishneh Torah, simply restates the Talmudic statement that whosoever recites a blessing in vain is in violation of taking the name of G-d in vain. He seems to understand it to be a Biblical violation. The French Tosafists of the 12th and 13th centuries, however, understand the statement in the Talmud to be a warning of sorts, rather than an asser- tion of a Biblical violation. The rabbis of Talmudic times wished to stress how seriously we should look at a blessing made in vain. The comparison to a violation of the Ten Commandments, in their view, is just a warning—but is not to be understood literally. How have the more contemporary rabbis looked at this debate? The famed Chofetz Chaim cites the view of Rabbi Abraham Gumbiner, author of the Magen Avraham commentary on the Shulchan Aruch, that one must be stringent and assume that in fact it would be a Biblical violation. Rabbi Abraham Karelitz, author of the Chazon Ish, has a different conclusion. He states that just as the Tosafists have written that the Talmud is merely stressing the seriousness of the issue, one can say that Maimonides as well was merely repeating the Talmudic notion of how serious the issue should be taken, but even Maimonides would not have taken it literally. In conclusion, then, Obama’s retaking of the oath might have been wrong. If the Chazon Ish is correct, then it would not have been wrong, since it would only be wrong by rabbinic standards—and Obama, as a non-Jew, is not subject to rabbinic standards. If the Chofetz Chaim is correct, then taking the oath again would have been a Biblical violation of the Ten Commandments—a standard of ethics with which Obama may wish to comply. O

The author may be reached at [email protected].

26 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES I said as much. “Is this what I spend car. As I dashed outside, somewhere money on Triple-A for? A two-hour deep in my subconscious I wondered wait? That’s ridiculous.” She replied why I didn’t see the typical, small AAA that all tow trucks were out, in use in truck with a chain in the back. Little other areas, and that at the moment it did I know that flatbed trucks are was the best she could do. She prom- used for vehicles that cannot be ised to try to locate an available truck towed by a chain hook-up with the and to call back with a progress report. front wheels up. I hadn’t specified to Listen Up I thanked her and hung up the phone, the AAA operator what the problem still without realizing that I didn’t even was with my car. know if I needed to be towed! The operator of the flatbed truck Once upon a time I did things right. Hubby. His response was, “Call AAA, The friendly operator and I spoke never went anywhere near my car. He I listened attentively, had no problem but if you need a tow, tell the guy to every 15 minutes from that time for- didn’t try to start it nor did he with comprehension, acted responsi- take it to my regular service station ward. She was unable to find an avail- attempt to make any repairs. The only bly, and was able to follow directions. and nowhere else.” It was reasonable able truck, but she was determined to contact he made with my car was to All of that has recently changed. In advice and should have been easily keep me updated and also to commis- put it in neutral, attach a pulley, and varying degrees, I often mess up. understandable. But all I heard was erate with me for being out in the get it rolling up onto that flatbed. For When a child has this problem he the last part. cold. Hoping to elicit some sympathy, a few minutes I watched in fascina- or she gets early intervention to help tion as my driverless car headed up deal with comprehension issues. But the incline. at my age I’m past the stage where Not wanting to bother my daughter any help might be termed early inter- to follow behind the truck and drive vention. In fact I’m not even certain Not wanting to bother my daughter to follow behind me to the service station, I told the that late intervention would be of any driver I would be riding with him. benefit. the truck and drive me to the service station, I told “No problem,” he said. That’s what The most recent example of my the driver I would be riding with him. “No problem,” he thought! inability to process instructions cor- It was no problem for him, because rectly took place last week. After a he said. That’s what he thought! he stood about six feet tall. I, on the busy day, I stopped at my daughter’s other hand, at this time in my life home for a short visit. At five o’clock I barely make 5'3". And the cab of the said my goodbyes and went to me car truck is extraordinarily high. While to head for home. he was busily securing the car,, I I turned the key in the ignition and I made the AAA call, gave the and thereby insure that she would decided to climb into the cab. got nothing. Dead as the proverbial required pertinent information, and keep trying to get help sooner, I didn’t Undoubtedly it was a sight to behold, doornail! Although I knew better than said, “I need to be towed.” Why I did tell her that I wasn’t outside. Actually and I was thankful for the encom- to keep trying, I tried twice more. that, I have no idea. I had no idea if I I was sitting in my daughter’s comfy passing darkness. If anyone had wit- Nothing! Goornisht! Nada! So I did even needed a tow! But the damage was living room, staring out at my car. nessed my effort, I would have died what I always do when I’m in trouble. done. The pleasant voice on the phone And still I didn’t realize that I didn’t of embarrassment. I called my husband, Arnie. informed me that I would have assis- even know if I needed to be towed! The truck had two metal steps I knew there was an active AAA card tance by seven o’clock. I was horrified At exactly seven o’clock a huge in my wallet, yet my first call was to by the prospect of a two-hour wait, and flatbed truck appeared alongside my Continued on Page 49

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 27 Dear Esther, enough for marriage, nor do they even I need some help regarding how to understand what marriage is about. handle my most recent crisis with our We try to explain the facts of life to daughter “Malka,” who is now 18 years her, only to have her get angry and tell old. She is the type of child who makes us that we don’t understand what love you wonder why you ever had kids (just is all about. kidding—sort of). After two other won- Malka expects us to make a huge derful and easy daughters and one ter- engagement party and a lavish wed- rific son, Malka came into our lives. ding, the way we did for her siblings. She was never a simple child to raise. As it is, she has a chip on her shoul- As a baby, she always seemed irritable der and feels that we never cared for and unhappy. She cried a lot and did- her the way we cared for our other n’t sleep through the night until she children, and that if we loved her the was close to three years old. (Yes, most same way, we would be happy for her people don’t believe me, but it’s true.) and do for her everything that we did In school, she was disobedient and for them.

One of the worst positions for a parent to be in is to feel that they are being held hostage to the demands of their child.

always got into trouble. By eighth My husband and I feel like we are grade, her acting out was getting more caught between a rock and a hard serious and she was actually kicked out place. If we make the party and wed- of school, which made her situation go ding, we feel as though it will be a from bad to disastrous. Let’s face it, sham. Our hearts would not be into it, which school wants to take in an and we believe it will probably end in eighth-grader? As compromised as her divorce in no time at all. On the other self-esteem was already, it really went hand, if we refuse to pretend that down the tubes at that point. everything is normal and that she is And so went our story. I know that entitled to everything her siblings we are not the only parents that went received from us, Malka will have through this terrible saga of taking a another reason to feel unloved and child from therapist to therapist, doc- uncared for, and maybe take her rebel- tor to doctor, school to school. But lions to an even higher level, if that is that doesn’t make it any easier. No even possible. Who knows, maybe matter how much nachas you have in she’ll cut us off completely and we’ll your life from your other children, this never see her again. hardship takes over and it becomes all We absolutely do not know what to you can think about. do at this point, but will have to come People would tell me that I have to up with a plan very soon, because any be patient, that Malka would outgrow day now she’ll be making her big her rebelliousness and that she would announcement! Is there any “out” for eventually settle down. As she is our parents like ourselves who feel so youngest child, we are not exactly trapped and hopeless? spring chickens anymore, and don’t Trapped have a lot of stamina left to deal with crisis after crisis. It’s just so hard. Dear Trapped, Anyway, to bring you up to date, It sounds as though Malka has real- Malka started dating a young man, ly put you and your husband through whom she met somewhere on her own, the ringer from the time she was born. maybe two or three months ago. We’ve Clearly, she has always had serious met him a few times and to say he is issues going on, which made life for unimpressive is an understatement. her and I’m sure your whole family, He too has lived a life of rebellion, very taxing. Raising children like which is no surprise. I guess that’s the Malka is challenging, to put it mildly. main thing they have in common. He It’s not as though there is a tried and has no education, no structure; he true method that works for all rebel- presently works at a menial job. lious children. Some just have to out- Malka claims to be happier than grow it on their own; some are lucky she’s ever been and tells us that she and blessed enough to at some point and “Yank” plan to get engaged soon connect with a loving relative, friend, and marry shortly thereafter. Besides rebbi, or teacher who cares enough to the fact that we can’t even imagine take them under their wing and how the two of them can make it on become a shaliach of sorts and a con- their own, we see this union as a disas- ter. Neither one of them is mature Continued on Page 30 28 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 29 MINDBIZ er ground. I believe you both know in the plate and doing their share in mak- and the many other parents who find Continued from Page 28 your hearts what the right thing to do ing it happen. If this plan works, they themselves in similar situations. Try to is. The challenge is to find the courage should both grow enormously from the be gentle and loving with yourself, as duit for renewal and success. Sadly, to do it and stick to your guns, despite couples therapy and discover whether this scenario probably has very little to some of these so-called challenging emotional blackmail. or not they are compatible enough to do with you and everything to do with children carry their issues with them You talk about needing a plan. marry altogether. And Yank will be Malka’s “hardwiring.” No parent does throughout their lives, never truly find- Might I suggest the following: You say forced to understand that a person everything right, but if you’re blessed ing relief from their demons or any to Malka something like, “Malka, we’re who gets married needs some way of with an easygoing, compliant child, sort of true happiness. thrilled to see you so happy and we supporting his family. there is room for error. If not, buckle Surely after 18 years you’ve had want you to enjoy a wonderful, happy If they can’t see how this is a plan up, because the journey will get very enough and would hope that Malka life more than anything. So here’s what born out of love and concern, and can bumpy. Stay strong and committed to has gotten her act together. But it we’ve come up with, based on how only see as far as the pretty dress what you know in your heart is the doesn’t sound as though she has much we love you and want only the bought for the vort, you will be faced right thing to do. And be sure to sur- matured sufficiently or worked best for you. We’re excited about mak- with one of the greatest challenges round yourself with loving and sup- through her problems enough to live a portive individuals. more successful life. That doesn’t Esther mean that she will never figure out how to live a productive, balanced life, Esther Mann, LMSW, has a private practice in but meanwhile she is still struggling to Lawrence. Esther is a psychotherapist and life The challenge is to find the coach and can be reached at 516-314-2295 or understand right from wrong. [email protected]. She works with individu- One of the worst positions for a par- als, couples, premarital couples, and families. ent to be in is to feel that they are courage to do it and stick to your being held hostage to the demands of their child. This should not be, yet is guns, despite emotional blackmail. often the case—for a whole host of Submit your photo to the reasons, such as guilt, insecurity, concern about what others will say, inap- 5 Towns Jewish Times! propriate kindness, and so on. When a parent buys into this mindset, nothing ing a beautiful vort and wedding for you’ve faced so far. Will you be able to good can ever come of it. you and Yank. However, because we hold tight and not allow your fears to You can upload your I think that is where you and your want your future to go well, we will do force you to give in to Malka’s husband are finding yourselves at the this for you after the two of you have demands and threats, or will you cave digital photos and see them moment. Feeling guilty that Malka will gone for premarital therapy for six in under the enormous pressure she not feel sufficiently loved, insecure months and, in the meantime, after will make you feel? My belief is that printed in the weekly edition that she will drop the two of you like Yank has figured out some kind of you should do everything in your of the 5 Towns Jewish Times hot potatoes, worried about what your career for himself. There are vocation- power to stand firm. Perhaps you and neighbors might say if she suddenly al schools around that offer training your husband will need the hand-hold- disappears or elopes somewhere, and for a solid career.” ing and encouragement of a therapist concerned about hurting her feelings. Basically you are offering to give to help navigate the inevitable storms www.5tjt.com/sendphotos It’s important and necessary for the Malka what she wants, but putting her that will ensue. two of you to take this issue to a high- and Yank in charge of stepping up to These are trying times for yourself

30 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 31 es the slaves, as recounted in this True, Pharaoh announced their free- week’s parashah. This act should have dom already at night; when they triggered an immediate response. After received the news, however, they were experiencing years of the most back- already bound by the Torah’s injunc- breaking labor imaginable, the Jewish tion to remain inside until morning. people are told by their Egyptian slave- As R’ Yaakov Kamenetsky (Emes holders that they are free to go. Surely, L’Yaakov) points out, this was quite a they should have poured out of prodigious feat on the part of the Mitzrayim at the first possible second, Jewish people. They had been waiting without stopping to think. for centuries for this moment. Any Mishnas Chayim But that is not how it happened. “normal” person, under similar cir- Freedom was granted to the Jews by cumstances, would literally jump at their overlords in the middle of the the opportunity of being released from On The Parashah night, on the heels of the slaying of the such long and torturous bondage and Egyptian firstborn. Yet the Exodus did would not have hesitated a second to not take place until the next morning, leave, not for all the money in the Free At Last comes, they waste nary a second in “In the midst of the day,” (Sh’mos world. Not only that, but Pharaoh had tearing out of the building, and the 12:51). Why the delay? displayed tremendous duplicity and Kindly take a moment to study Mishnas Chayim in the merit of Golda bas Nesanel, a’h, a fellow mass exodus from the schoolyard to It appears that the reason for their stubbornness regarding his slaves. He Jew who passed away with no relatives to arrange summer vacation takes place with a delay was a technical one: the Jews would agree to free them while the Torah study on behalf of her neshamah. sense of immediacy and urgency. had been instructed to partake of the plague was raging, only to change his mind once things settled down. Who In what many schoolchildren was to say that he would not follow the undoubtedly consider an accurate same pattern this time around, and analogy, the Jews’ bondage in Egypt shortly regret the freedom he granted? can be compared to a typical school “There is danger here, there is And so the Jewish people were faced year. Confined to certain premises to with a dilemma: On the one hand, they perform tedious tasks against their had a religious obligation to stay put will, the process continues for what danger there. In the meantime, I the entire night. On the other hand, seems like an interminable amount of the greatly anticipated call to freedom time to those involved. had just been issued; who could with- might as well daven with kavanah.” stand the excitement and the tempta- Departure Time tion to flee? Perhaps they should just Yet we find a surprising difference grab this opportunity and go—espe- between the two. In a school setting, cially in light of the very real danger anticipation has been building for the One would have thought that the Pesach offering that night. As part of that by the time morning arrived, it end of the school year. When the bell same would apply to the (obviously that service, they had been command- could be too late! rings on the last day, the students— more severe) situation in Mitzrayim ed by Hashem to remain indoors Yet no one stirred. Despite the real who had long been yearning for their (Egypt). Having suffered through ten throughout the evening (“And you possibility that their long-awaited free- freedom—are only too eager to awesome plagues, Pharaoh decides shall not leave the entrance of your respond. When that clarion call that he’s finally had enough and releas- houses until morning”; ibid., v. 15). Continued on Page 34

32 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Long-Term Investment

BY STEVEN GENACK remember the 10 miracles—detzach, adash, and be’achav. Rashi, in this week’s parashah, notes Detzach comes from the root word that Nissan is considered the begin- detzah, which means happiness. ning of all the months of the year Adash, in Hebrew, means a bean. (Sh’mos 12:2). Nissan, in a sense, is This refers to the lentil beans that the time when G-d showcased to B’nei Eisav consumed at the expense of los- Yisrael his miraculous powers. ing his firstborn rights. be’achav, if G-d’s awesome hand in Mitzrayim broken into two words, comes to spell offered proof that only He could cre- ba chov, the debt will come. If one ate the world. This is why Yetzias engages in the type of happiness that Mitzrayim is mentioned in the Friday- Eisav did, only looking for short-term

Our existence in this world is not time-bound, but continues into the next world.

night Kiddush. The miracle performed gain, then there will be a chov, debt, during the Exodus testifies to the fact to be paid back. that G-d had the ability to orchestrate Certainly, this is a lesson in today’s creation. economy, but in a spiritual sense, it In the Haggadah, it is said that every symbolizes the dual paths a man can day we should view ourselves as if we choose. One can engage in spiritual left Mitzrayim. It’s important to be acts that will be paid back with infi- mindful of the miracles that G-d per- nite reward in the next world or formed in Mitzrayim on a daily basis. Rabbi Yehudah created acronyms to Continued on Page 35

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 33 MISHNAS CHAYIM to catch up on his own. Continued from Page 32 The rav’s fellow travelers attempted to convince him of the danger involved, dom could well slip through their fin- but to no avail. “What’s the differ- gers, the B’nei Yisrael dared not violate a ence?” he later explained. “There are prohibition of the Torah. As we know, of Germans everywhere. There is danger course, the rest is history. They passed here, there is danger there. In the this first test as a nation and merited a meantime, I might as well daven with glorious redemption the next day. kavanah.” Seeing that the Brisker Rav was adamant, the party decided to wait, Prophetic Logic out of respect for him. When he fin- An incident involving the Brisker Rav ished davening, the journey resumed. illustrates this idea on an individual Arriving at the next town, the travelers level as well. Toward the beginning of found that it was completely empty of World War II, the Brisker Rav joined a Jews. A gentile woman informed them group of Jews who were attempting to that only moments before, the Germans flee the Germans. As they were journey- had rounded up all the Jews of the city. ing, the time for Minchah approached. She advised them to flee immediately. Technically speaking, the travelers As the party again set out on their did not need to halt their journey but way, the awesome realization dawned could daven as they traveled. As the on them: had they not delayed their Mishnah in Berachos (4:6) states: journey for those few minutes that it “One who is traveling on a boat or took the Brisker Rav to daven wagon (when the time to daven Minchah, they, too, would have fallen arrives)…need only direct his heart into the hands of the cursed Germans. toward the Holy of Holies in They looked at him in amazement. Yerushalayim”—i.e., he need not stop his For his part, the Brisker Rav was rela- journey, but can pray as he proceeds.” tively unfazed. “What happened is stated The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim, explicitly in the Midrash (Devarim 94:4), however, adds a caveat: as cir- Rabbah, 4:5),” he explained. “Hashem cumstances and individuals differ, states: ‘Whoever keeps My Word will not each situation needs to be evaluated lose out,’” (Bemechitzasam, p. 162). separately. Depending on such factors Just like the Jews in Mitzrayim. O as the spiritual level and concentration Mishnas Chayim is brought to you by Chevrah powers of the individuals involved, a Lomdei Mishnah, a network of Torah scholars pause in the journey may be in order. dedicated to bringing the merits of Mishnah Hence, the Brisker Rav preferred study to the greater Jewish public. Encompassing Mishnah, Gemara, and a variety of other servic- to stop the wagons so that he could es, Chevrah Lomdei Mishnah primarily assists daven properly. Not wanting to mourners interested in acquiring the merit of Torah study for their loved ones. They can be impose on the others, however, he contacted at 732-364-7029 or at www.society urged them to continue; he would try formishnahstudy.org.

34 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Long-Term Investment time (for example, yom tov holidays Continued from Page 33 are called moadim). The word mu’ad numerically equals 120 (the mem is choose short-term gains that will be 40, the vav is 6, the ayin is 70, and the paid back in a negative fashion. dalet is 4). The new interpretation on A second d’rash unveils the eternal the phrase is that man’s time of 120 is nature of man which encourages one forever (l’olam). This means to say to engage in acts that will pay off in that our existence in this world is not the long term. The Mishnah in Bava time-bound, but continues into the Kama (26a), when discussing the lia- next world. bility that a man incurs upon injuring Every day we should contemplate his neighbor, says, “Adam mu’ad the miracles that were bestowed on l’olam”—man is forever forewarned. our behalf in Mitzrayim. They testify This imposes a high liability standard to G-d’s might and unveil to us in a on man whereby he will be guilty of concrete manner that He was the cre- injuring his neighbor even if he does it ator of the world. We should also find unknowingly (though if it was a pure comfort in the fact that should we accident, he would be exempt. see engage in positive acts, they will be Tosefos, Bava Kama 27b). repaid accordingly. Lastly, we should But there exists a d’rash on those be inspired by the fact that our finite same words that beckons a deeper existence of 120 is eternal and follows message. The word mu’ad also means us into the next world. O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 35 to me by a local merchant, one who is From what is discussed in the arti- losing money but does not want to give cle, the Jewish Board of Advocates for up because of the chesed involved in Children (JBAC) is an organization their work, it is my belief that many are that has taken on a most noble cause, just not given a chance. protecting our children from any form For me, shlepping is out of the ques- of abuse. They have called upon law- tion at this point. There isn’t anything makers, educators, and clergy to join we cannot get right here in our own and solve the abuse issue. This seems Shop Local munities for items which may be avail- community. And, as one merchant told to be where the fight against abuse Dear Editor, able or procured by our local mer- me, if they don’t have it that day, they meets the resistance that attorney I am a proud senior member of the chants, it simply erodes the possibility will personally get it—a service I find Elliot Pasik finds so disturbing. In Five Towns community. In addition to of success and tragically effects the noble these days. examining the issue, it is clear where the proliferation of shuls, shiurim, parnasah of many local retailers that So, I ask the community to patron- the resistance is coming from and why events of inspiration, and a true sense are truly suffering through these eco- ize our local merchants during these it is taking place even in the face of the of community witnessed in recent nomic times. difficult times, and I’ll bet that they great and potentially calamitous issues years, I have also kept a close watch on I have talked openly with many would be surprised as to just how far affecting our children. retail establishments, specifically merchants on “the strip.” The situa- many will go to not only strengthen Nobody in their right mind would shomer Shabbos ones—many of which tion is just not good. But what really their business, but to keep from having stonewall a call for protecting our are owned by members of our commu- hurts them is when they find out that to close and post yet another “for young if in doing so we wouldn’t be nity. I admit, I enjoy speaking with the someone in their shul, or even a lease” sign. sacrificing normal, sane, and effec- proprietors, as I am beyond the age friend, shlepped to Boro Park to pur- Yours truly, tive educators. Certainly, protective where rushing from one to the next is chase the very same thing they could Shimon Gecelter measures such as fingerprinting necessary. Therefore, I am compelled have purchased, or at least tried to should be put into place. The last to write about a topic that is most dis- purchase, locally. Examining The Abuse Issue thing our community (or any other tressing, only compounded by the Therefore, it behooves me to write Dear Editor, community) needs to be dealing with global economic crisis, which anyone and compel the entire Five Towns/Far “The Abuse Issue” (From the is the aftermath of any dire situation driving down Central Avenue these Rockaway community to consider the Editor’s Desk, January 23) brings on that could have easily been avoided. days would be remiss to ignore. dedication many of our local propri- the compulsion to shed a broader light The fear that is causing some to I remember my parents shlepping to etors, “frum” or not, to make things on this very sensitive and emotionally stonewall JBAC’s passionate call for Queens, Crown Heights, and Brooklyn available for us that in only recent charged issue. The Five Towns Jewish reform is the likelihood of creating not so long ago to get the very same years required a trip outside the com- Times should be congratulated for con- mass hysteria and paranoia in its items which are now available right munity. I believe that it is imperative to fronting such an issue head-on, so as quest to simply deal with a problem here in our own community. The seek out goods locally, as many rely on to influence positive progression in that begs for a solution. mesirus nefesh to adorn a Shabbos their retail success to be able to pay and around our community. Too many It is extremely important that table, celebrate a simcha in style, etc., tuition and patronize other local retail- people cower away from this issue, rebbeim and teachers feel safe to edu- was commonplace. Baruch Hashem, as ers for their needs and the needs of thereby jeopardizing our children. This cate without the fear of accusations our community has grown, so has the their families. letter is designed to examine the abuse being leveled against them. Teachers shomer Shabbos retail industry. So, Central Avenue is a different place issue from the perspective of an educa- must feel comfortable to give over while the “comfort zone” of many may these days. I guess it is plausible to tor and parent. It will also lay out clear information in a way that is palatable still be to spend precious gas money theorize that no one is shopping any- suggestions as to how this issue should and time to go shlep to outside com- more. But as was recently pointed out be tackled. Continued on Page 37

36 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES for our children. This means that they s”xc must foster positive and healthy relationships (that are appropriate) in a way that reveals the human element. Teachers are like performers, in that the most effective educators are the ones who are fueled by the love of their trade and response from their “audience.” In turn, students that can relate to their educators are far more likely to learn lessons that encompass Torah, mussar, and morality, as well as all areas of secular study, than students who are more removed. In addition to this, educators are in a most volatile situation. Due to the fact that they are dealing with our precious children, they are constantly under scrutiny—as they very well should be. At the same time, however, they should be treated with kid gloves, for they endure far more stress as a result of this needed scrutiny than most other professionals. Furthermore, any single base- less or false accusation against an educator will certainly destroy his or her life as well as the lives of their family and possibly their friends. In creating legislation and influenc- ing proactive change, JBAC must address these concerns as well. It would be mutually beneficial to children and educators. If a viable plan is in place that protects our children and educators, there certainly should not (and probably would not) be any resistance. Hopefully this issue will be dealt with swiftly, prudently, and effectively, for the betterment of our children as well as their educators. Sincerely, Elkanah Adelman

Taking Down The Walls Dear Editor, It has been nearly two months since, while walking on Shabbat to Shaaray Tefila, I first noticed the wooden gate and fence blocking the front entrance of the new Orthodox synagogue, referred to by some in the community with the rather uncompli- mentary the “W Shul.” This sight evoked the memory of my going to the synagogue in Minsk, while on our mission trip with my wife to Russia during Pesach of 1970. Passing by and observing this barred gate every Shabbat and each time feeling the hurt and insult to this beis tefillah, I was moved to write the attached letter, on October 27, 2008, to Mr. Shep Meltzer, chairman of the zoning board in Lawrence. Now that it has been three weeks from my sending the letter and I have yet to receive a response, or even an acknowledgment of its receipt, I am requesting that you print my letter with the hope that its publishing will result in actions that will remove the blight on the Lawrence community the closure of the main entrance presents. NNN Dear Mr. Meltzer, As a member of Congregation Shaaray Tefila and a concerned neighbor with an apartment in 2 Herrick Drive for 12 years, where for the past couple of years I have taken an active role as a member of the board of directors in the maintenance of the

Continued on Page 38 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 37 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 37

co-op’s buildings, I am taking the liberty of addressing you on a matter that deeply dis- turbs me. Walking with my wife to services at Congregation Shaaray Tefila, during the High Holidays and on recent Saturdays, I could not help but notice the barred entrance gate in front of the main doors of Beis Medrash Heichal Dovid, the new Orthodox synagogue on Central Avenue located between Wedgewood and Herrick. I find this sight a most hurtful insult to a house of worship—when parish- ioners are forced to look for back doors to enter the L-rd’s house! I find this situation unacceptable and possibly even in violation of the Constitutional guarantee of freedom of religion! Enquiring as to the reason for this closure, I was informed that this was man- dated by the zoning board in answer to the complaints of some homeowners residing on Wedgewood. They fear potential hazards due to the increased vehicular traffic in their street. I can fully appre- ciate and concur with the concerns of safety for the many children who may be playing in these local streets. However, does such vehicular hazard exist on the Sabbath, or on Jewish holidays where everyone walks to this synagogue? Perhaps the board is concerned with the safety of the many children, particularly boys, who regularly attend services in this house of worship, lest they may spill out onto the traffic on Central Avenue. Yes, this could certainly be a safety issue, but one that has a ready protective solution that has been in worldwide use for many years. Inasmuch as the synagogue’s property fronts the entire block on Central Avenue, erecting a three-foot-high decorative railing along the entire length of the block front, between the sidewalk and the curb, will provide such protection to the children and will allow pedestri- ans to cross the avenue safely at the intersections. For more than 50 years I have been actively involved in numerous institutions—educational, medical, and religious. The most noteworthy were the establishment of Touro College, which now boasts the enrollment of some 26,000 students; the Optometric Center, which evolved into the New York State College of Optometry; 38 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

the Yeshivah of Flatbush; the Emergency Medical Center in Efrat, Israel, now evolving into the regional mini-hospital of the Gush Etzion; a synagogue in Danbury, CT; and the new building I erected for a Young Israel in Brooklyn. The common achievements of these endeavors are that they have benefited hundreds or thousands of people in each of their respective communities and beyond. In this same vein, I view the emergence of Beis Medrash Heichal Dovid as a vibrant institution, which is making a positive impact on the Lawrence Jewish community and as such, I urge the zoning board to allow this synagogue to operate in its building with the same respect accorded to other houses of worship in the community. Respectfully yours, Dr. Leon A. Reich

Non-Combatants Should Never Be Targeted Dear Editor, Lawrence Kulak, in his opinion piece in the December 12, 2008 issue of the 5TJT, states, “The only way to deal with Islamic terrorists is the same way in which they deal with their victims. Muslims believe in the literal interpretation of the Biblical doctrine of an eye for an eye… They killed our innocents, and unless we kill theirs, they will go on killing ours.” Kulak states that his Muslim critics take his comments out of context. Though his critics do focus on his conclusion, not his many observations prior to his conclusion, his closing rec- ommendation as stated in his initial article is nonetheless terribly wrong. Kulak rightly describes intentional, horrible attacks by Islamic extremists against innocent civilians, Jewish and others, to instill terror to achieve their political aims. He further rightly recognizes that in warfare innocent civilians can and do get killed and injured because of their proximity to legitimate targets. His conclusion, though, as understood by many, that he advocates purposely targeting Muslim civilians anywhere to teach the lesson of “an eye for an eye” is, just the same, irre- sponsible and immoral, and grossly distorts Jewish teaching. I was gratified that in his follow-up letter Kulak clarified that “I never advocated the wanton killing of innocent Muslims…” It is always important to understand events and statements in their full context if honest conclu- sions are to be drawn. I am pleased that Kulak was not advocating the killing of innocent Muslims anywhere in the world as a response to the killing of innocent Jewish civilians, as was implied in his article and was understood by Muslims and others who read it. Horribly, there are some Muslim religious and political leaders who do give religious sanction and encourage the murder of Jews worldwide. But the statements of some should not be concluded as the position of all. I have also read condemnation by Muslim clerics and organizations in their media of these calls to random vio-

Continued on Page 40 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 39 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Continued from Page 39

lence against Jews. I condemn the killing of any innocent civilians in a war situation, if such killing can be avoided. Family or neighbors of terrorists who are in the proximity of the terrorists do get killed in attacks on the combatants, whether in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Gaza. That is the horror of war. Civilians should never be intentionally targeted, and are not and have never been the target of the Israelis. “If somebody is coming to kill you, rise up and kill him first” is a dictate for self-defense, when one is being pursued. You have a right to fight back against an aggressor. International law recognizes the right of national self-defense. Israel has been fighting back against Hamas, which has been sending thousands of rockets and mortars at Israel’s civilian population for eight years. While Israel had aimed specifically to kill Hamas terrorists and destroy their supplies, due to the mix of Hamas and its rocket and weapons factories and storage sites among the general population, innocent civilians have been killed and injured. But Israel did its best to target the Hamas leaders, personnel, and sites. It is not Israel’s intention to kill non- combatants. In fact, Israel even placed phone calls to civilians who might be in the line of fire, giving them advance warning of an imminent attack, something that no other country would do to seek to minimize civilian causalities, even at the cost of giving warning to the targets themselves. Yes, Kulak criticizes such action, seeing it as weakness. I see it as a reflection of the highest moral standards of Israel, setting an example for the world. In Iraq and Afghanistan, the U.S. has officers who determine the proba- ble number of civilians who might get killed in the course of a bombing raid. They have their pre-determined number of how many civilian casualties would be acceptable for going after a particular target. Beyond that, higher authority must be sought before the operation could be commenced. No one should ever advocate the killing of innocent civilians of other faiths or groups because extremists of those faiths intentionally do so to ours. That is a perversion of morality and distorts the religious and ethical values of our faith, as it is a perversion of those other faiths as well. As Jews, we seek to show by example the highest of human and Jewish values and urge that behavior in others. As there are Jews who do and say things that are counter to Jewish teachings and values, so too there are Christians, Muslims, and others who distort the teachings of their faiths. We should not seek to emulate the worst in others, but the best in what we are capable of—despite the evil that others may do. I condemn broad generalizations, stating or implying that all people of a given faith or nationality believe this or that or support evil actions. Throughout Jewish history, Jews and 40 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Judaism have been con- demned and attacked by others who grossly distort what Judaism teaches, or hold all Jews responsible for the words or actions of just a few. For millennia Jews have been stereotyped and subjected to bias and bigotry. We should not respond likewise. We should represent the highest standards of ethical conduct in peace and in war. I am an active member of the Jewish Catholic Muslim Dialogue of Southern N.J. The Muslims—Sunni and Shia—come from such different countries as India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Israel, Syria, and elsewhere. We all recognize Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish state and we all hope for a Middle East where Israel and her Arab neighbors can live in peace. We stand united as “children of Abraham” in further- ing mutual understanding and cooperation and in condemn- ing terrorism by all groups against any innocent civilians everywhere. We issue statements that condemn anti- Semitism, anti-Catholicism, and Islamophobia. Bias, prej- udice, bigotry, stereotyping, ethnic and religious hatred, is wrong and evil, whatever its source. In our community we strive to demonstrate that Jews, Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and those of many other faiths in our community can live together in peace. Alan Respler, Executive Director, Jewish Community Relations Council of Southern NJ

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 41 42 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 43 Camp Gan Israel Towns—a place members of our com- At Five Towns Chabad munity turn to year round for top-quali- When temperatures dip below the ty enrichment and entertainment. freezing mark, parents begin thinking Chabad’s Camp Gan Israel has about…what to do with their children offered preschoolers an unforgettable for the summer. The eight weeks of free- summer experience for many years.

Stop! Have you registered your child yet for a fun-filled summer at Camp Gan Israel?

dom could be the best of times or the Every week campers have specialties worst of times, and a savvy parent tries to such as nature, art, creative movement, pick the best of all the available options baking, music, etc. Once a week they for their children. This leads many parents to the doors of Chabad of the Five Continued on Page 46

44 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 45 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Chabad understands that this is a diffi- O Continued from Page 44 cult time for everyone.

have “in trips” such as a petting farm, Thousands Of Potential Marrow inflatable bounce house and slides, pup- Donors Turn Out In Israel pet shows, concerts, fun bus, and more. A six-year-old girl is stricken with They also have special water activities leukemia. Amit loves animals and wants every day at their very own “water park.” to be a veterinarian when she grows up. Each summer features a special theme. But will she grow up? Last year was flying high with mitzvos— A bone marrow transplant is her sole this year’s theme is a surprise. Also, each chance to survive. On January 21, Ezer week they focus on another mitzvah, and Mizion held a drive in Israel to geneti- the activities of the week—songs, crafts, cally test potential donors. It seemed as etc.—center around that mitzvah. if all of Israel opened its doors and Rabbi Meir and Mrs. Hadassah poured into the 85 testing stations Geisinsky, the ever popular youth direc- throughout the country. Jobs, university tors at Chabad, are the directors of CGI. classes, household duties were all put Hadassah has been running camps for on hold as the population streamed to 12 years and has been at CGI for 3. She the centers to save the life of a Jewish attributes the camp’s success to their child. As of 5:00 p.m., 50,000 compas- warmth. “We create an environment sionate Jews had been tested, and the where the kids can be themselves and crowd was still surging upon the cen- express their feelings freely.” She ters with no end in sight. The hundreds describes the environment as follows: of Ezer Mizion staff members answered “The excitement is palpable. When you the constantly ringing phones, and an walk in the building you can feel it! The emergency request went out for physi- singing from the kids, or the laughing cians, nurses, and phlebotomists to vol- from the campers as their morahs slide unteer at the stations in drawing blood. down the waterslide in their clothes! The Never in history has there been such a bond the children make with the coun- successful drive. selors continues throughout the year.” Lines were long, but, as one registrant The counselors return for more fun noted, “We waited two hours and not since they form a bond and love working one person complained. How can some- there. They always say how much they one complain that his plans for the day gain just by being in Camp Gan Israel. are ruined when a little child cannot Camp Gan Israel is for ages 3-5. The even make plans? For her, there may not session runs from June 29 to August be a future.” 19. The cost is $1,695, or $1,595 dur- Upon their return home, registrants ing the early-bird special ending on want to maintain their feelings of togeth- January 30. Hadassah strives to offer the lowest tuition in town because Continued on Page 50

46 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

Twersky stood up and said as her own inner conflicts. story of friendship and loneli- that several years ago he So while the book artfully ness that we can easily relate We Need To Talk addressed a handful of peo- manages to orchestrate the to. Throw into this mix a ple and told them, “We have seemingly “ordinary” crises pinch of self-delusion and a a problem.” At that time, no that seem to pop up in the teaspoonful of self-sacrifice BOOK REVIEW 100 pounds. Risa is a strik- one listened. Yet at the more lives of both Miri and Risa, and you will quickly find B Y ARI SHER ing girl who is tall and thin— recent conference, he gave the meta-message is a larger yourself immersed into the and getting thinner… the same message to a one. lives of the frum protagonists. Take a typical television Anorexia nervosa as a packed auditorium. Everyone And that is that as a com- You will root for them. You series format. Translate that mere medical term seems was listening. munity we do have problems, may cry for them. But you into a somewhat offbeat somewhat objective and Being frum, it seems, does and unless we face and treat most certainly will relate to yeshiva high school world. detached. When, however, not immunize one from prob- them they will not get any bet- them. And you will absolutely What you get would be similar the diagnosis is attached to lems (although when prob- ter. Ignorance, whether real or not put this book down until to the recent offering by a real or even fictional char- lems are finally faced, it cer- merely professed, will not you are done. O Rochel Sofer—We Need to cause problems to go away. The author may be reached at Talk: What Happens When This well-written book is a [email protected]. Looking Thin Becomes an Obsession (187 pp., Devora Publishing)—in which a frum Ignorance, whether real teacher and a troubled student cross paths. Every chapter contains more adventure or merely professed, and entanglements. Every chapter brings you closer to their lives, their hopes, and will not cause problems their dreams, as well as their limitations. In the process, to go away. both of their lives are altered and transformed. Miri is a young teacher in an “alternative” yeshiva high school for girls. And every- acter, the medical term tainly does assist in dealing thing seems to be under con- transforms itself into a liv- with them). So in this book trol until she meets Risa, ing, breathing, and some- Risa faces many of the chal- one of her students. It seems what troubled individual. lenges of growing up frum in a as if Risa has a tiny problem. In a broader sense, the modern world. Miri really and She looks at herself in the book is reminiscent of a com- truly wants to help Risa, but mirror and sees herself as ment made by Rabbi Twersky she is faced with her own being perpetually over- at a conference held in the challenges. She has three weight—despite the fact that Five Towns on the subject of smaller children, her own she weighs in at well under drug addiction. Rabbi household to manage, as well

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 47 estate marketplace. To give you an making sure your house does not example of what’s involved, consider have pet hair on the furniture and the following: floors, even if that means vacuuming Grab a pad and pen, hop into your and washing the room from floor to car, and pretend you are a buyer driv- ceiling and the furniture as well. ing by your house. “Hmm, that’s There is nothing as off-putting as pet interesting, let me take another hop hair all over, and many a buyer has Staging Your House To Sell around the corner and look again.” been lost because of this. What do you notice first? Bikes scat- Make sure all the lighting in your In today’s real-estate market, sell- review objectively what needs to be tered across the lawns or walks, home has bright light bulbs. ers need every edge they can get to done to present it to prospective garbage pails thrown helter-skelter as Walking through a house with 20- or put their house “out there” ahead of buyers as a home they will want to opposed to neatly out of sight. Maybe 40-watt light bulbs is straining on the competition. Preparing your buy for themselves. some stuff you meant to put in stor- the eyes and makes even the loveli- home for sale requires seeing it with Home-staging is the art of re- age or throw away but never got est house depressing. Saving energy new eyes—quite a challenge when styling your home, not for your own around to. Maybe some of the paint is a wonderful value, but when you you have loved it and lived in it hap- needs and tastes, but for your buying on the outside is peeling or chipping. are putting your house on the mar- pily for years. You have grown accus- audience. Surveys show that a home Make some notes about what needs ket and want to show it at its best, tomed to all its nooks and crannies that has been staged in preparation tidying or what needs to be repaired bright lights show happiness and and learned to step around undone for prospective buyers attracts more or repainted. warmth. repairs, leaving them for another serious buyers and sells faster and Follow up your exterior inspection Check the hardware around the day. You now have to look at your with higher prices than those that with an interior inspection in the house. Do all your doorknobs work home with new eyes and try to have not been prepared for the real- same manner. Walk around from properly? Are the knobs or hardware room to room (almost like bedikas on your kitchen cabinets all tight- chametz) and make notes as to what ened and looking good? needs to be cleaned up or put away After all is said and done, the to make each room show itself better most important impression is always and in a more spacious and open that your house shines. There is fashion. Take note if you need paint- nothing as welcoming as a house ing touch-ups or any repairs that will that is clean and smells good. In the show the house in a maintenance- end, first impressions are your free atmosphere. strongest marketing tool. O If you have a lot of furniture, think about removing some of it to Anessa Cohen lives in Cedarhurst and is a show off a room to its best potential. licensed real-estate broker (Anessa V Cohen A room full of too much furniture Realty) and a licensed N.Y.S. mortgage broker (A.C. Action Mortgage Corp.) with over 20 years starts to resemble a warehouse of experience, offering full-service residential and rather than a pretty room, and that is commercial real-estate services in the Five Towns certainly not the impression you and throughout the tri-state area. She can be want a potential buyer to take home reached at 516-569-5007 or via her website, www.AVCrealty.com. Readers are encouraged to with him. send questions or comments to If you have pets, take more time in [email protected].

48 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES THAT’S THE WAY IT IS! Continued from Page 27 with those little bumps on them that, Hubby later explained to me, are called grippers. Grippers are to prevent one from slipping. That made sense. The problem was that the first step came up to the height of my knees. I looked up into the cab and asked myself how I was ever going to be able to get up there. Unfortunately, I had no good answer! It was patently obvious that I needed three steps (four would have been even better) to get myself up into that seat. I never considered asking the driver for help, because a male (and a stranger, no less) giving me a boost by pushing my backside up the steps was not going to happen. I thought of going back inside my daughter’s house to ask my grandsons for help, but that thought held little appeal for the same obvious reason. I was on my own. Eventually I made it. But, without exaggeration, it took a full five minutes for me to accomplish the Herculean task. It might have taken a bit less time but for the fact that I fell in the process. Thankfully I didn’t fall to the ground, but as I was going from the first to the second step I somehow fell back on my knees onto the first large step with those bumpy grippers. I whimpered but I was care- ful not to cry out, and I eventually made it up to the second step and into the cab. I was sitting there non- chalantly when the driver finally got in. I would like to add here that he made it up and into his seat on the first try. As we drove off, I called Arnie and asked him to meet us at the service station. He agreed and we arrived there simultaneously. And still I did- n’t realize that I didn’t even know if I had needed to be towed! As Arnie and the driver entered into a discussion, I headed inside the warmly lit office. Within minutes, I looked outside to see Hubs, and the driver, looking in at me. They both had uncomprehending looks on their mugs. It turned out that they had started my car! All I had needed was a simple battery charge. I could have had a small AAA truck at my disposal within one hour. I could have avoided that climb (and the fall) into the cab of the truck. And I could have driven myself home, rather than to the service station. The truck driver drove off. Hubby and I left my car at the station and drove home together in his vehicle. And the next day I had a new battery installed. True to character, Arnie refrained from criticizing me for my error. If the situation had been reversed, I would undoubtedly have hounded him about making such a mistake. But it isn’t necessary for him to remind me how foolish I was to ask for a tow truck. My bruised knees are doing that! O

Hannah Berman lives in Woodmere and is a licensed real-estate broker associated with Marjorie Hausman Realty. She can be reached at [email protected] or 516-902-3733. 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 49 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 46

erness in their efforts to save Amit, and so far over 200 comments have appeared on the website. Jews are united as one nation, one heart, one goal…Amit shall live! One donation has arrived from a cancer sur- vivor who owes her life to Ezer Mizion. “I am donating to save Amit in honor of Mira, who donated her bone marrow and saved my life eight years ago.” Genetic testing is expensive and, although the websites are deluged with contributions from around the globe, funds are urgently needed so that each registrant can be tested in a timely manner—and Amit, together with so many other Jews, will iy’H receive the life-saving transplant for which they are waiting…hoping…praying. To learn more, visit www.ezer mizion.org or www.saveamit.com, call 718-853-8400 or mail Ezer Mizion, 1281 49th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219. O

YU Annual Seforim Sale, February 1-22 Yeshiva University (YU) will hold its annual SOY (Student Organization of Yeshiva) Seforim Sale from February 1 to 22 on YU’s Wilf Campus in Manhattan, Belfer Hall, 2495 Amsterdam Avenue. Last year the acclaimed Judaica book sale drew more than 15,000 people from the tri-state area. Students, educators, and parents flock to the sale to take advantage of discounted prices on the latest of more than 10,000 titles in rabbinic and academic literature, as well as cookbooks, children’s books, musical recordings, and educational software. The seforim sale has become a high- light for the Yeshiva University community, as students and alumni congregate to visit their alma mater, see old friends, and add books to their personal libraries. “We expect another big turnout this year,” said Ophir Eis, CEO of the SOY Seforim Sale. “Aside from all the discounts available, we have a number of great events planned.” The sale, North America’s largest Jewish book sale, is managed exclusively by students, who run the entire operation—from ordering to setting up the premises, marketing, and all the technology the project entails. Proceeds support SOY’s myriad of ini- tiatives, which include student activities on campus and outreach programs in the Jewish community. Scheduled events at the sale include: • Alumni night on February 3, featuring a performance by the Maccabeats, the YU men’s a cappella group. • Live acoustic performance by Six13 on February 4. • A lecture by Dr. David Pelcovitz and Rabbi Steven Eisenberg on February 5 entitled “What happens when your child isn’t you: Understanding the religious change after year(s) of study in Israel.” • Musical performance by Aryeh Kuntsler on February 12. • Family Storytelling with Peninnah Schram, Professor of Speech and Drama at YU’s Stern College for Women, on February 15. • Emunah cooking demonstration and book signing on February 16. For a complete listing of dates and 50 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES times, to purchase gift certificates, or David Adom, will operate the emer- ic was opened because of a government Jewish experience. In addition to the to view the online catalog, visit gency treatment center. This initiative humanitarian decision. Magen David individual concentration, elective work- www.soyseforim.org. O is part of the Israeli government’s Adom is not giving blood to the Gazans. shops broaden participants’ artistic per- humanitarian efforts to assist the civil- Magen David Adom, as a member of the spective. These include dance, guitar, Building Block Grants ian population of Gaza, coordinated by International Red Cross, must act songwriting, and storytelling. Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer Minister Herzog. according to the principles of neutrality An important focus of Tizmoret (D-Queens) is pleased to announce Daniel R. Allen, chief executive officer and universalism, that every person has Shoshana is the development of partici- that Neighborhood Housing Services of American Friends of Magen David the right to receive humanitarian aid.” O pants’ spiritual commitment. Daily times of Jamaica, Inc. (NHS) is offering Adom, said, “Magen David Adom is are reserved for prayer and Torah learn- Building Block Grants for local block pleased to fulfill its national responsibili- Tizmoret Shoshana ing, and Shabbat is observed with servic- and civic associations. Eligible associa- ty, on behalf of the Israeli government, to Camp And Retreat es, discussion groups, and presentations tions can apply for grants, up to $200, serve the health needs of area residents.” Tizmoret Shoshana is a summer by scholars-in-residence. Families of par- to help underwrite their community According to the agreement reached overnight camp program that provides a ticipants and the community are invited development projects for 2009. between the Ministers of Welfare and nurturing, Torah-observant environ- to join in a Shabbaton during the pro- “This is a wonderful opportunity for Social Services and Health and the Red ment in which Jewish girls, ages 12-19, gram’s final Shabbat. our block/civic associations to obtain Cross, the injured civilians will be can seriously and intensively pursue Public performance and exhibit are much needed funding for improve- brought from Gaza to hospitals in Israel, their interests and develop their talents integral to the program, with faculty and ment and revitalization projects in our depending to their medical condition. in art, music, drama, and writing under student concerts, readings, and master communities,” said Pheffer. Israeli hospitals have been preparing to the guidance of a distinguished profes- classes regularly scheduled. Tizmoret Eligibility requirements for the pro- accept these new patients. The treat- sional faculty. The 2009 session will Shoshana often hosts high-profile guest gram include: ment center will be fully equipped and take place from June 24 through July 5 artists. The retreat culminates with an • The block/civic association must staffed by medical personnel, including at the Pearlstone Conference and evening gala concert, dramatic perform- be a duly formed organization with specialists in trauma, orthopedics, pedi- Retreat Center in Reisterstown, MD. ance, readings, and an art show. elected officers who hold general atric medicine, family medicine, gyne- Concentrations in visual and environ- Pearlstone’s serene, natural setting meetings at least four times per year. cology, and other areas. mental arts, chamber music, vocal serves as an inspiring backdrop for the • The association must have been in In reply to critics who protested the music, drama/puppetry, and creative integration of artistic and spiritual pur- business for a minimum of one year. decision to give medical aid to a hostile writing are offered. Each of these disci- • The association must provide evi- civilian population, MDA said: “The clin- plines will reflect Torah themes and the Continued on Page 52 dence of its existence for the required regulatory period (evidence such as bank statements, sign-in sheets, minutes, or other tangible information/material). The funds may be used for things such as stationery, office supplies, block clean-up, block parties, block beautification and/or improvement projects, tree or shrubbery planting or dedication ceremonies, association sig- nage, newsletters, T-shirts and caps bearing the logo of the association, training, tools, and equipment. In addition, associations will be required to attend NHS workshops, give recognition to NHS for funding received, submit a completed proposal for funding, provide copies of all necessary documents as evidence for funding, and submit receipts for purchases to NHS no later than November 1, 2009. Applications will be available beginning February 1 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and must be submitted with all necessary attachments by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2 (no exceptions). Those associations selected to receive the grants will be notified by Monday, March 16. Applications may be picked up at Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, Inc., 89-70 162nd Street in Jamaica, NY. Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, Inc. is a 35-year-old not-for- profit organization committed to revi- talizing neighborhoods by offering homeownership education, counseling, and technical and financial assistance to residents in its communities. By pro- viding affordable housing and creating an awareness of available resources, NHS motivates residents to upgrade and preserve their properties to improve the quality of community life. O

MDA Opens Emergency Treatment Center At Erez Crossing On Sunday, January 18, a forward emergency treatment center opened at the Erez Crossing into the Gaza Strip, in the presence of Minister of Welfare and Social Services Yitzhak Herzog and Minister of Health Yaacov Ben Yizri. The center’s goal is to treat uninvolved civilians from Gaza. The Israel Ministry of Health, through Magen 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 51 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS materials fee for students who overnight, Torah-observant fashion show will include out- office at 516-569-6279. O Continued from Page 51 concentrate in art. A separate summer camp. fits from local vendors (for fee applies for guests at the Workshops will include jew- information about how your Jews Across The Spectrum suits. The 164-acre campus Shabbaton. Limited financial elry-making, painting, pup- store can be involved, please Connect Through Their contains hiking trails, a lake, aid is available. petry, storytelling, and song- call the NCSY office), and Legacy and an organic farm. Girls have NNN writing. In addition, there will creations made by you! Girls New Year’s weekend may be a access to a swimming pool and From Sunday, February 15 be an opportunity to harmonize and women of all ages may time for partying to most of the have the opportunity to swim, to Monday, February 16 in a choir; play in an ensemble; submit their own unique out- world, but to 50 Jews this year, canoe, hike, and participate in (President’s Day) at the hear an inspiring shiur about fit designs to Long Island the long holiday weekend was other outdoor activities. Pearlstone Conference and art and music in Torah; and NCSY or to representatives in about something much more The fee for the program is Retreat Center in Reisterstown, participate in or attend an the aforementioned schools. meaningful. In the serene, $1,350 and includes overnight MD, Tizmoret Shoshana will evening performance. The first three sketches sub- snow-covered Catskill Mount- accommodations and kosher present a Torah & Arts Retreat The $75 per person fee mitted will cost $5. Each ains, Jews of all backgrounds meals under the strict rabbini- for Jewish girls ages 12 to 19. includes overnight accom- additional sketch will be 25¢. and ages participated in the cal supervision of the Star-K. Participants will “taste” what modations, materials, and Submissions are due to school “Legacy Experience,” a four-day There is an additional $75 Tizmoret Shoshana offers at its three kosher meals under representatives or NCSY by outreach (and inreach) seminar the strict rabbinical supervi- February 11. Three designs based on materials from the sion of the Star-K. will be chosen and will be world-famous Arachim, spon- N NN made by you in conjunction sored by JEP of Long Island and For more information and to with local dressmakers with Priority-1. With Shabbos meals, register for the camp and/or the fabric by Rachel’s Fabric and shiurim, leisure activities, and retreat, contact Mark Singer, Trim. Rules and information time to socialize, the Legacy artistic director, at 410-358- about the contest can be weekend was all about connect- 5721 or e-mail tizmoret found at www.lincsy.com. ing Jews to Torah and, perhaps [email protected]. O This event will also host a most remarkably, to each other. boutique featuring local ven- Sharon, of Massapequa, NCSY Project Frumway dors. NCSY is collecting attended with her 11-year-old Long Island NCSY, in asso- sponsors for this event. son and especially appreciated ciation with the JUMP clubs Pricing for ads in the Project the friendly atmosphere. She of Central, HANC, HAFTR, Frumway catalogue are $100 describes herself as “not par- and SKA, is proud to present for a half page and $175 for a ticularly observant,” finding it the second Annual “Project full page. If you would like hard to keep Shabbos in a Frumway,” a community-wide more information concerning town with few Jews and no fashion event for women only. sponsorship opportunities, active Orthodox Jewish com- Be Precious, a brand new contact the NCSY office. munity. But at the Legacy fashion line featuring exclu- The fashion show will take weekend and of the JEP pro- sively modest clothing, is place on Monday, March 16, gram in general, she said, “No looking for fresh designs for 7:30-10:00 p.m. at matter where you are in the its newest spring line and will Congregation Beth Shalom in spectrum of being observant, be conducting a community- Lawrence. Further inquiries they welcome you in.” wide contest to do so. The should be directed to the NCSY A guest on the opposite end

52 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES of that spectrum was Chaim of Monroe. “Don’t Rely on Your Prayers.” Chaim and “I believe an event like this is just as Roya liked the workshops on relation- important for frum people as non-frum. ships and shalom bayis. Sharon liked It might even be more important. The Arachim’s signature “Fail Safe” lecture, non-frum already know that the secular particularly the scientific evidence for world is bankrupt, so they’re searching the divinity of the Torah. But one partic- for something. But frum people might ipant, who described himself as FFBWSI think that they’re missing out on some- (“frum from birth with some interrup- thing just because of the way they were tions,” in other words, someone who raised. So we need chizuk, too.” went off the derech and returned) spoke Baruch, a yeshiva talmid, agrees. in glowing terms about “the symposium” “FFBs need this type of thing to keep the at the conclusion of the weekend. That mitzvos from being routine. Every so was when the participants got to take often, you need a wake-up call.” their own turn at speaking. What Roya liked was that the wake-up “That’s when you really get to know call was not shrill. Originally from Iran, people, to hear what they believe, to she is what would be called “traditional” understand their lives,” he said. “I was or “masorti.” She celebrates Shabbos raised with a Yiddishkeit that was “al pi with her two children each week, and darkam—according to their way.” But the tries to walk to shul, but might take the Torah says every Jew is supposed to be car there when the weather is bad. “But educated “al pi darko,” according to the the rabbis at the weekend talked to you way that’s right for him.” like human beings. They weren’t And indeed, therein lies an effective demanding perfection. They didn’t say, secret to all successful kiruv and hash- ‘You have to be shomer Shabbat.’ They pa’ah. Whether we’re kids or adults, were informing us about Judaism and male or female, frum or not frum, we all about how it can make you a better per- need to experience Torah in our own son, how to be more human.” unique way. Roya’s life story itself is enough to When a single mom from inspire sympathy and awe for our fellow Massapequa, a chasid from Monroe, a humans. At the age of 16, she and her yeshiva bochur from Passaic, an Iranian father fled Khomeni’s Iran, traveling by escapee, and many other Jews get togeth- camel across the deserts of Pakistan. er for a Shabbos of learning and achdus, “Sometimes you have to go through a that is kiruv at its best. That is Jews con- desert to get to a place of happiness,” necting to their legacy. she observed. If you would like to put these mes- Just as there was a wide spectrum of sages to work in your own life, stay Jews attending the weekend, there was a tuned for the National Legacy Program. broad divergence of opinions as to which With live hook-ups throughout the was the best lecture. Baruch liked Rabbi Shaya Cohen’s class on bitachon, entitled Continued on Page 54

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 53 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS marked for scholarships, assisting fami- Continued from Page 53 lies from Queens/Long Island who have been affected by the current economic United States, parents, educators, and situation. For more information about the professionals will learn the powerful scholarship breakfast or to make a dona- hashkafah lessons used in kiruv to tion, please call Rabbi Michael Olshin, strengthen their own faith and reach menahel of Yeshivat Torat Shraga at 516- out with a friendly hand toward all fel- 568-5015, e-mail [email protected], low Jews. For more information e-mail or visit www.toratshraga.com. O [email protected]. O 100,000 Jews Around The World Yeshivat Torat Shraga Reaching Answer The Call For Help Out To Five Towns Community By Aaron Troodler And Beyond Since it was re-launched on On February 8 George and Elyse January 4, Operation Tefillah, Torah & Wertheimer of Woodmere will be hosting Troops has sparked worldwide interest a scholarship breakfast to benefit stu- The faculty of Yeshiva Torat Shraga. and a global response as tens of thou- dents from Queens and Long Island that sands of people have answered the call plan to attend Yeshivat Torat Shraga in to pray on behalf of the soldiers in the Jerusalem. Torat Shraga has earned a rep- are catered to their individual talents children who have been residing in Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Calls and utation for attracting self-motivated stu- and strengths. The program is current- bomb shelters from the various coastal e-mails requesting the names of Israeli dents who wish to cultivate a strong bond ly in its fifth year and has received the cities in the South of Israel. soldiers have come in from all over the with Eretz Yisrael, build leadership skills, recognition and endorsement from lay At the heart of the yeshiva exists a world, and the outpouring of support has and advance their Torah education. The leaders and rebbeim throughout the cohesive and inviting student body, warm emanated from thousands of individuals yeshiva, which is housed in the quiet sub- United States and Canada due to its and charismatic rebbeim, and most from dozens of countries. In just the first urban neighborhood of Bayit Vegan, innovation and mission to provide a importantly, the yearning for limud ten days alone, approximately 100,000 Jerusalem at the Yeshiva University cam- fully integrated academic opportunity haTorah and religious growth. The yeshi- people have signed up to pray for an pus, conveys a passion to its students to to students with learning issues. va is proud to maintain its close relation- Israeli soldier. become outstanding b’nei Torah whose Yeshivat Torat Shraga upholds the ships with its talmidim beyond Israel and Operation Tefillah, Torah & Troops, character exemplify the highest ideals in concept of communal responsibility to will be hosting its annual alumni which was launched by Rabbi Simcha moral and ethical behavior. its talmidim and encourages them to Shabbaton in the Five Towns, February HaCohen Kook, the chief rabbi of In addition to the standard yeshiva assist Jews in need. Students have 6-7. In addition, students and communi- Rehovot, and the Bostoner Rebbe (Rabbi curriculum, Yeshivat Torat Shraga cre- organized activities for families of terror ty members will have an opportunity to Levi Yitzchak Horowitz) of Har Nof, part- ated EIT Lilmod, an educational pro- victims, assisted in the packaging and hear and speak to Rabbi Avishai David, ners people from around the world with gram that teaches a variety of Judaic distribution of food to the elderly and rosh hayeshiva of Torat Shraga at the soldiers in the IDF. Each person who courses (e.g., Talmud, Bible, Jewish poor, hosted blood drives, and coordinat- Young Israel of Woodmere, on parashas takes part in Operation Tefillah, Torah & law, philosophy) in an effort to reach ed activities with numerous chesed Beshalach. Troops is paired with an Israeli soldier out to students with different learning organizations throughout Israel. During Through the assistance of the and is responsible to say tefillot, learn styles. Students who participate in EIT the recent military operation in Israel, Wertheimer family, the yeshiva will Torah, and do special acts of chesed on Lilmod have the special opportunity to Torat Shraga provided recreational and ensure that every penny raised from the behalf of that solider. get involved with chesed projects that social activities to more than a hundred breakfast on February 8 will be ear- During the war in Lebanon in the

54 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

summer of 2006, more than 50,000 peo- sprang into action and worked tirelessly ple worldwide participated in this initia- with us to ensure the success of this tive, facilitated in North America by the important project.” National Council of Young Israel (NCYI). “In the Jewish nation, the bodies might The effort was recently renewed as the be different, but the souls are one,” said members of the Israel Defense Forces Rav Kook. “Our rabbis teach us that battle Hamas terrorists and Palestinian tefillah is avodah she’ba’lev (service ren- militants in Gaza. dered from the heart)—prayer is in the “The power of prayer should never be heart, not the mouth. We as a nation may underestimated,” said NCYI Executive be speaking with many mouths, but we Vice President Rabbi Pesach Lerner. “By are speaking with one heart.” raising our collective voice towards the “We are fighting not because we want heavens and asking for G-d’s help, we to, but because we have to,” continued can provide the support and strength that Rav Kook. “The whole world is fighting our soldiers need as they carry out a mis- against us, and we need G-d’s help to sion that is vital to the future of the prevail. The most important thing that Jewish state.” we can do right now is pray.” Rabbi Yanki Schneck, assistant chief Rav Kook recounted how he was con- rabbi of Rehovot, said that Rav Kook’s tacted by the mother of an Israeli soldier office has received nearly 25,000 e-mails who was on the front lines in Gaza. She from people around the world request- cried as she begged him to pray for not ing names of soldiers. His office has just her son, but also for all of the sol- seven phone lines that are constantly diers under his command. Every one of ringing, as thousands of calls pour in. those soldiers gave their names to Rav “This project is the quintessential display Kook so that people could pray for their of achdus,” said Rabbi Schneck. health and safety. “Different types of Jews—chareidi and The original e-mail announcing the secular, observant, and non-observant— initiation of the project has been redis- are all joining together for an important tributed thousands of times and viewed purpose and a common goal.” by tens of thousands of people. The Rabbi Schneck noted that the success results have been astounding. Schools, of this project is largely due to the will- synagogues, and individuals, both young ingness of people to give of their time and old, have called and e-mailed and to get involved. “After Rav Kook and requesting names of men and women in the Bostoner Rebbe initially launched the IDF. Many of the Young Israel this effort during the war in Lebanon branch synagogues throughout the two-and-a-half years ago, they reached United States, who were the first to out to Rabbi Pesach Lerner and the receive the original e-mail from the National Council of Young Israel for their NCYI office, sent the e-mail to their assistance in facilitating the initiative. As soon as Rabbi Lerner got the call, he Continued on Page 56

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 55 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS participate in this critical do here to help, but pray I can.” Continued from Page 55 endeavor. The Hillel Academy The National Council of of Greater Dayton in Dayton, Young Israel was contacted by a members, called to request Ohio, participated as well. teacher in the Bais Aharon names, and took a leading role American yeshivos in Israel, School for Girls in Pinsk, in publicizing this endeavor. including Yeshivat Sha’arei Belarus, who said that a num- The examples of the breadth Mevaseret Zion and Yeshivat ber of students in the school and depth of Operation Reishit in Yerushalyim, request- had asked for the names of sol- Tefillah, Torah & Troops are ed names. Associated Hebrew diers so that they could daven endless. The Telz Yeshiva in Schools of Toronto requested for them. Cleveland and the Gateshead 500 names. Jews in Germany, “The overwhelming interna- Yeshiva in England each posted Norway, and South Africa have tional response that this project a list of names of IDF troops on requested names. 40 families has engendered is evidence of their bulletin board so that their from the Jewish community in the fact that the Jewish spirit is students could pray on the sol- Gibraltar requested names. stronger and more powerful diers’ behalf. Yeshivat Noam in Americans living in Israel have than ever,” said NCYI President Paramus, New Jersey, Yeshivat also called in for names. Shlomo Z. Mostofsky. “Our Yavneh in Los Angeles, and Rav Kook’s office received an hope is that the power of the Beth Tfiloh Community School e-mail from an individual who prayers that are being said for in Baltimore also requested resides in Gothenburg, Sweden. our brothers and sisters in the names. Agudath Israel of West “I would really like to pray for a IDF will give them the courage, Lawrence sent the e-mail to its soldier in the IDF,” he wrote. “I resolve, and confidence that members and urged them to feel that there is not much I can they need to forge ahead on their vital mission and help ensure their safe return.” Rabbi Kook and the Bostoner Rebbe noted that this concept is one that has been a part of the Jewish people for thousands of years. When Moshe Rabbeinu led the Jewish people to war with the nation of Midyan, for every person who went to battle, there was a des- ignated person who was responsible for praying and learning for him. Throughout his reign, David HaMelech uti- lized this practice as well. “Sharing our prayers and the benefits of Torah for our soldiers who are in danger as they fight an enemy who wishes to destroy us is a wonderful thing,” said the Bostoner Rebbe. “It is a big privilege to be able to do my little part in helping those people on the front lines who are sacrificing their lives. Through this initiative we are telling the soldiers that we are with them during their time of need.” “The idea behind this initiative stems from the relationship of the Almighty and the Jewish people,” continued the Bostoner Rebbe. “When things are happening, it is not enough to just sigh and say ‘too bad.’ You have to feel for that person and for the position that they’re in.” Sherine Levine, the executive secretary of NCYI, has fielded hundreds of phone calls and responded to countless e- mails thus far from people requesting the names of soldiers to daven for. “The phones have been ringing non-stop,” said Mrs. Levine. “People have been calling from different countries and continents, asking for names of soldiers and looking for advice on what they can to do to help. I am telling people to pray from their hearts for the safety of the soldiers and to daven that they should return safely to their families.” Mrs. Levine added that she has been asking people who are calling to pray for 2nd Lt. Aharon Karov, an Israeli soldier 56 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES who was critically wounded in a 12,000 already ‘in the pipeline.’ ago to assist Western Jews who booby-trapped house in Gaza. My family is deeply moved to be choose to move to Israel. The Karov had recently taken leave a part of this incredible historic Aguiar funds are being used to from his unit so that he could process.” help meet the needs of thou- attend his wedding. Two days Nefesh B’Nefesh has created sands of recent newcomers. after he got married, he was a new approach to aliyah and “Our tradition teaches us that called back to action, and short- streamlined the entire process ly thereafter suffered life-threat- since it was founded six years Continued on Page 58 ening injuries at the hands of Hamas. “It breaks my heart to hear what our brave men and women in the IDF are going through,” said Mrs. Levine. “They need our thoughts and prayers now more than ever.” To participate in Operation Tefillah, Torah & Troops and receive the name of an Israeli soldier who needs your prayers, send an e-mail to the office of Rabbi Kook at maortlmo@ gmail.com or to rfarbowitz@ youngisrael.org. To request the name of a soldier by phone or fax, call the NCYI at 212-929- 1525 ext. 100, or send a fax to 212-727-9526. Members of the IDF who wish to have a “part- ner” praying for them are urged to e-mail the office of Rabbi Kook as well. O

$8 Million Gift To Nefesh B’Nefesh Helps Bring Newcomers To Israel Nefesh B’Nefesh recently announced the receipt of a major gift to support the organization’s work in bringing Jews from the West to live in Israel. The donor, Guma Aguiar, a phi- lanthropist and founder of Leor Energy, gave $8 million to NBN during the period ending Dec- ember 31, 2008. The organization has appointed Aguiar, a board member, to the position of chairman of finance. “This substantial donation demonstrates how the remarkable commitment of Jews who choose to make Israel their home even in these challenging times is echoed and fortified by the support of generous individuals like Guma,” said Tony Gelbart, co-founder and chairman of Nefesh B’Nefesh. “These vital funds strengthen Israel’s human resources and ensure its future. The gift has already played a major role in helping Nefesh B’Nefesh bring a record number of newcomers to Israel in 2008.” Aguiar firmly believes in creating facts on the ground and views his commitment to NBN as a vital strategic investment in Israel. “There is no greater priority for the Jewish people or Israel than strengthening immi- gration from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.” stated Aguiar, who was named “Top Industry Executive of 2008” by Oil & Gas Investor Magazine. “Our goal of enabling 100,000 individuals to realize their aliyah dream seems more realistic with every passing day, in light of the 18,000 who have moved to Israel with Nefesh B’Nefesh’s assistance thus far, and another 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 57 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS not leave her with the well-stocked and need. Registrants are even provided ‘Ask Outreach’ Success Launches OU Kosher ‘How To’ DVD Series Continued from Page 57 kitchen and home that she had hoped with free announcement cards so that for. Yedida became the proud owner of they can tell friends and family about Back in the year 2000, OU Kosher when economic times are tough, giving several pieces of Hungarian art, which their registry, enabling loved ones who presented a series of kashrus seminars in to others for important causes is the most were lovely, but not exactly useful in set- live abroad to go to the site, view the reg- Lakewood, the great New Jersey center helpful thing to do,” Aguiar added. “It is ting up a new home. istry, and purchase gifts securely in dol- of Torah—known in fact as Ir Ha’Torah, a profound honor for me to help fulfill Worse still, the two also had to figure lars. The gift-giver can rest assured that “the City of Torah” and home to Beth what I consider a truly sacred task.” O out how to bring the gifts that were kind- the gift will be appreciated and does not Medrash Govoha and a variety of other ly delivered to parents’ homes in North need to worry about the hassles of inter- institutions and kollelim. On average, Not Just A Business: A Link To America to Israel. For months after the national shipping. And the new couple some 80 people showed up to learn from Loved Ones Abroad wedding, any family member traveling to can feel comfortable knowing that the OU experts. Mia Urman and Yedida Wolfe learned Israel was immediately assigned an addi- they’re getting gifts that they picked out In 2008 and early 2009, when OU the hard way what it means to plan a tional piece of luggage to bring. There themselves. Kosher returned for a series of semi- wedding in Israel when your family and were overweight baggage fees to pay and Israel’s first English-language gift nars, audiences of up to 500 people friends are thousands of miles away. not everything arrived in Israel in one registry portal is sure to ease the stress attended the presentations, part of OU Added to the stresses of choosing a wed- piece. In fact, some gifts still reside in of planning for a wedding, bar/bat- Kosher’s new program, “Ask ding hall, caterer, and band, they quickly Mia’s parents’ basement in Montreal, mitzvah, or new baby needs for Anglos Outreach”—the OU’s forays into the realized that gift-giving in Israel was not awaiting the trip. living far away from friends and family. yeshivish and chassidic communities the same as in their hometowns of Mia and Yedida recognized that they In addition to lifecycle registries, the and semichah programs. The previous Montreal and Chicago. There were no were not the first olim to be in this situa- site provides invaluable services to year, the OU’s halachic posek, Rabbi trips to the local Macy’s or Bed Bath and tion and that they would certainly not be those making aliyah or studying in Yisroel Belsky, spoke before almost Beyond to register for everyday dishes, the last. The two career moms set out to Israel for a year, allowing newcomers 1,000 people in Lakewood. fancy china, serving dishes, and towels in create a service that would help others in the option of choosing everything they According to Rabbi Yosef Grossman, every size and color. There were no boxes similar situations. And, thus, need for their new house (or dorm director of kashrus education for the arriving each day, filled with the products HopeIGet.com (www.hopeiget.com) was room) before they arrive. OU, “the size of the audiences demon- that had been painstakingly registered born. Launched on May 6, 2008, the site For new olim living thousands of strates the growth of the influence of for. Instead, Mia received four hand- provides Anglos living in Israel a simple miles from friends and family, Hope I OU Kosher as the premier spokesman blenders and assorted other gifts that did way to register for gifts that they want Get is a little taste of home. O on kashrus issues.” Now, with the upcoming release of a five-DVD series, How To, which is a step-by-step explanation of various kashrus topics, the wisdom of the OU rabbis is being made available to those who attended the programs and want to review them, or who didn’t attend and want to catch up on what they missed, as well as to community rabbis and mashgichim. Like Ask Outreach itself, the DVD series is sponsored by the Harry H. Beren Foundation of Lakewood. The first three DVDs to be issued in the near future are How To Be an Excellent Mashgiach, with Rabbi Yaakov Luban, executive rabbinic coor- dinator; How To Check for Treifus, with OU posek Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, of Yeshiva Torah Vodaath; and How To Do Nikkur (elimination of veins and fats) with various OU experts. Later releases issues will include How To Check for Insects, with Rabbi Yosef Eisen, formerly of OU Kosher, now head of the Va’ad of the Five Towns; and How To Kasher, with Rabbi Moshe Perlmutter, OU rabbinic field representative. OU Kosher had previously produced a 54-hour DVD with 91 Ask OU presentations; 2,500 copies have now been distributed. According to Rabbi Grossman, the Lakewood program was a major success, in great part because entire kollelim attended, rather than only individuals. “We’re not just serving a few people there, we’re serving the whole kollel community,” he said. Much to his delight, representatives of the Beren Fund also were there for the presentations, “shepping naches,” as Rabbi Grossman describes it, to see the success of their sponsored programs and that their money was well spent. Like the 54-hour DVD, the new DVDs will be distributed free of charge at OU Kosher events. For those who wish to have the new DVDs sent to them, the charge for each will be $5. The 54-hour DVD is priced at $10. Contact Rabbi Grossman at 212-613- 8212 or [email protected]. O

Continued on Page 69 58 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 59 relating to something greater than practical laws. the self, something more than the When the Holy Temple—the Beis here and now. HaMikdash—stood in Jerusalem, every Jewish household, or group of smaller Three Offerings households, would bring a lamb or kid In this week’s parashah, G-d com- to the Temple on the 14th of Nissan, municates to Moshe the laws of the the day preceding the festival of korban Pesach. Passover. The lamb would be slaugh- On the whole, the Torah is a prag- tered in the Temple courtyard, its blood From The Chassidic Masters matic document. The events it would be sprinkled on the altar, and describes are almost always physical certain portions of it would be burned events, and the mitzvos it commands atop the altar. It would then be roasted Burning Night are, for the most part, physical actions. on a spit over a fire. That night—the But the Kabbalists and the Chassidic first night of Passover—its meat would masters insist that the Torah’s every be eaten with matzah and marror,

They shall eat the flesh [of the ure and satisfaction are short-lived: Passover offering] on that night, roasted already the next striving is forming in on the fire, with matzos and bitter our hearts, and the fire of desire con- herbs. Do not eat of it half-done, or sumes our lives. When a soul reaches for G-d it is cooked or boiled in water; only roasted We might, at times, envy the tran- on the fire. quility of those who are free of ambi- —Sh’mos 12:8–9 tion, but it is the relentless seekers utterly consumed by an We experience life as an endless whom we admire and emulate. In our chain of urges and strivings. We desire own experience, we look upon our unceasing desire. something, agonize over our lack of it, periods of agitated quest as the high and expend our energies and points of our lives. For we sense that resources in pursuit of it. And when while the tranquil person is at peace our goal is actually attained, our pleas- with himself, the striving person is word also relates to the spiritual together constituting the three staples dynamics of our lives. Each law of of the Seder. (Today, the meat of the Torah—each organ and limb of its Passover offering is represented at the body—has its corresponding element seder by the afikoman, a piece of in the soul of Torah. matzah eaten at the end of the meal.) The same is true of the laws of the Various types of korbanos were Passover offering. In addition to their offered in the Beis HaMikdash, but the practical observance, they also address korban Pesach was unique in many the inner life of our soul. But before ways, for it was governed by a set of we can discuss some of the spiritual laws that applied to no other korban. applications of the korban Pesach, we Some of these differences are specified need to take a more detailed look at its in the fifth chapter of Maseches

60 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES Zevachim (56b), where the the farmer who brought it, which He ordered His world, both fire and water. Some can never capture anything Talmud compares the korban representing the lowest, or and our reciprocation of His meals are cooked steeped in of the Divine essence; he Pesach with two other kor- most material, stratum of cre- deed by rising above the dic- the water of contentment; can only strive for it, his soul banos, the firstborn offering ation). Together, the first and tates of nature and normalcy others have lesser degrees of a pure fire, with nary a drop (korban b’chor) and the tithe the tenth embrace the totality in our devotion to Him. liquid to temper the fire of of water to slake his thirst offering (korban ma‘aser). of the created reality. This explains the difference life; occasionally, one even and not even a pot to contain The Torah commands the Pesach—Passover—as its in how the korban Pesach partakes of a roast—a spurt his fervor. Jew to bring the firstborn of name indicates, relates to that offering is eaten, as opposed of utter striving, of desire his cattle or sheep as an which transcends seder hish- to the korbanos b’chor and unsatiated by a single drop of Nighttime Meal offering to G-d. Also to be talshelus, that which overleaps ma‘aser. gratification. The korbanos b’chor and offered is a tithe of the ani- the standard processes of cre- As we noted earlier, life can The korban Pesach, how- ma‘aser were eaten for two days mals born in the herd or ation. The korban Pesach is so be viewed as a cycle of striving ever, can be experienced and a night. The korban flock (once a year, the year’s named in attestation to the and realization; of yearning only one way—roasted on Pesach was eaten only at night. yield were herded into a pen fact that G-d leaped over the and gratification. The com- the fire. When a soul reach- In the course of our history, and let out one at a time; homes of the Jewish firstborn mon metaphors for these two es for G-d—not for the glim- we have experienced days of every tenth animal to when He killed all Egyptian states are fire and water. Fire mers of Divinity to be found Divine light, as well as nights emerge was marked and pro- firstborn on the night of the connotes thirst and upward within creation and experi- of spiritual darkness. nounced holy to G-d, and Exodus, despite the fact that, striving; water suggests set- enced by conventional spiri- Generally speaking, there brought as a korban): by all standard criteria, the tling down and satiation. tual endeavor, but for G-d were two daytime eras—the “The b’chor, ma‘aser, and Jews were no more deserving A normal life—life as Himself, as He transcends periods in which the first, and Pesach offerings are kodashim of life than the Egyptians. defined by the order of evolu- existence and reality—it is then the second, Beis kallim; they can be slaugh- Pesach is the event of G-d’s tion from chochmah to utterly consumed by an tered anywhere in the Temple disregarding the very rules by malchus—is nourished by unceasing desire. For man Continued on Page 62 courtyard, and their blood requires only one sprinkling, as long as it is directed toward the foundation of the altar. They differ, however, in how they are to be eaten. The korban b’chor is eaten by the kohanim, the korban ma‘aser by anyone; both can be eaten throughout the city [of Jerusalem]. The b’chor and ma‘aser can be eaten for two days and a night (on the day it was offered, on the following night, and on the following day until sunset), while the korban Pesach can be eaten only on the night following its offering, and only until midnight. Another difference is that the b’chor and the ma‘aser can be prepared in any way the eater desires— boiled, stewed, baked, roasted, etc.—while the Pesach has to be roasted on a spit over the fire, and cannot be prepared in any other way (not even as a pot-roast cooked in its own juices with no other liquid added). All these details—the laws of the b’chor, ma‘aser, and Pesach offerings, and the differences between them—have their counterparts in the inner life of the soul.

First, Last, And Over The teachings of Kabbalah describe our world as founded upon ten Divine attributes (sefiros) from which derive the spiritual form and sub- stance of reality. Thus, the number ten represents the seder hishtalshelus (literally, the order of evolution)—the spiritual order of things that G-d instituted in His creation. Firstborn represents chochmah, the first and lofti- est phase of the seder hishtalshelus; tithe refers to malchus, the last and lowest of the order (accordingly, the b’chor offering was eaten by the kohanim, who represent the higher, more spiritual callings of life, while the ma‘aser offering was eaten by 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 61

CHASSIDIC MASTERS truer than the fire-and-water concoc- Continued from Page 61 tions of the past. In this night of nights, our yearning for G-d is not HaMikdash manifested the Divine pre- focused upon first or tenth attributes sence in our world. Between these two or filtered through orders of evolution. days was a brief night—the 70-year In this night of nights, our yearning for Babylonian galus, when the Beis G-d is not mitigated by plateaus of HaMikdash lay in ruins and the B’nei gratification. It passes over all systems Yisrael were exiled from the Holy Land. and processes to strive for the very (The First Temple stood for 410 years, essence of G-d—an endless striving for 2928–3338 [833–423 BCE]; the the most endless of objectives. Second Temple stood for 420 years, (Chabad.org) O 3408–3829 [353–69 BCE].) Following Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher the sunset of the second day, we were Rebbe; adapted by Yanki Tauber. Courtesy of plunged into the blackest of nights— MeaningfulLife.com. into our current centuries-long galus, rife with suffering and persecution, confounded by doubt and spiritual dis- sonance and marked by the near-total For the next issue, concealment of the face of G-d. A normal relationship with G-d deadline for reserving could be had only on the two days and ad space is a night that preceded our present galus. These were times in which G-d showed Monday, February 2 Himself to man—even in Babylon we had prophets and other expressions of at 5:00 P.M. Divine immanence. But when the sun set on the second day, the flesh of the b’chor and ma‘aser offerings could no All graphics for ads longer be eaten: No longer could the Divine truth be experienced within the must be in by workings of nature or accessed by the Tuesday, February 3 conventional processes of spiritual endeavor. No longer could man experi- at 5:00 P.M. ence gratification in his spiritual life, for a glimpse of the Divine had become an elusive dream. In this night of nights, man’s striv- Call ing for the Divine is an unquenchable 516-984-0079 fire and an unrealizable yearning. But for that very reason, it is deeper and

62 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 63 Thousands Attend MK Rabbi Ravitz’s Funeral

B Y MATTHEW WAGNER, memory be blessed!” GREER FAY CASHMAN, President Shimon Peres praised AND STAFF Ravitz as the “true symbol of a public servant,” citing in addition to his lead- Thousands of friends, family, and ership as a politician, the example he colleagues attended the funeral of vet- set as a rabbi, educator, soldier, and eran chareidi parliamentarian Rabbi member of the Lehi organization. “He Avraham Ravitz on Jerusalem’s Mount was often a bridge between the Herzl early Monday afternoon. The Lithuanian Torah world and main- United Torah Judaism MK passed stream Israel, a man opposed to coer- away Sunday night at the capital’s cion, preferring persuasion through Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in teaching,” said Peres. “He was a man Jerusalem due to heart complications. who combined Torah scholarship with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert eulo- universal wisdom and knowledge. gized Ravitz. “MK Avraham Ravitz was When arguing with him, one was care- my personal friend for many years,” he ful out of respect not to denigrate his said. “Long before he thought about opinions.” politics and becoming an MK, he From an early age, Ravitz, born in would find the time to teach me the Tel Aviv on January 13, 1934, was a wisdom of our best Talmudic and maverick and an activist. As a teen he Mishnaic sages and I would eagerly joined the Lehi, a Zionist, militaristic, take in his words. He was clear, sharp, anti-British Mandate paramilitary easy-going, pleasant, a son of the Land organization influenced by the who lived its life to the fullest, and a thoughts of secular Zionist leader fighter in its wars. He felt its pain and Ze’ev Jabotinsky. In 1951, one year rejoiced in its goodness. Among the after it was established, Ravitz joined chareidi public, Avraham was an Pe’ilei Hamacaneh Hatorati, a precur- exceptional figure. This man passed sor to Yad Le’Achim, an organization before his time. His wonderful family, that fights missionary activities by his wife Abigail, his children, and his Christians and other religious sects in many grandchildren, his students (I Israel. Ravitz became friendly with among them), his numerous friends, Rabbi Shalom Dov Lipshitz, chairman and his rabbis were proud of him. We mourn his untimely passing. May his Continued on Page 66

64 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 65 Rabbi Ravitz against the secular-minded Zionist Continued from Page 64 political leadership. Ravitz was at the forefront of this fight. of Yad Le’achim, when the two learned After the Yom Kippur War, Ravitz in Hebron Yeshiva, one of the elite became involved with the burgeoning institutions of higher education for Israeli Teshuvah movement, which chareidi men. disseminated religious Jewish Ravitz also organized demonstra- thought among secular Israelis. tions and gave fiery speeches against Together with Rabbi “Ika” Yisraeli, attempts by the secular Zionist who owned an apartment in Tel Aviv, establishment to inculcate new Ravitz began teaching young secular immigrants from Muslim countries Israelis classic Jewish texts with the with anti-religious ideology. He goal of winning them over to an fought for the establishment of sep- Orthodox lifestyle. Eventually, this

“I still remember how he taught me Maimonides’ Eight Chapters,” recalled Arnon, who was brought up secular and today leads a chareidi lifestyle.

arate school systems for traditional- outreach activity became known as minded Jews. the Israeli branch of Or Sameach Mordechai Bloi, a veteran chareidi Yeshiva, which focused on Jews from activist, recalled Ravitz’s fight against abroad visiting Israel. autopsies, considered a desecration of Mordechai Arnon, who met Ravitz the body according to Orthodox sensi- for the first time in Yisraeli’s Tel Aviv bilities. Opposition to autopsies and apartment in the 1980’s, said that secular education, still flashpoints in Ravitz was a superb teacher. “I still the delicate relations between the remember how he taught me state and ultra-Orthodox Jews, were Maimonides’ Eight Chapters,” seen as battles that were part of a larg- recalled Arnon, who was brought up er culture war being waged between secular and today leads a chareidi the embattled chareidi minority lifestyle. Arnon, who said that he was

66 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES first introduced to Ravitz by an actor for Knesset Channel 99, Ravitz friend, was most impressed by Ravitz’s embodied a compromising, conciliato- Rabbi Katz Celebrates Grandson’s B’ris “amazing family.” “Kids in the Ravitz ry approach to politics. “Instead of family would fight for the right to fighting an uncompromising war help their mother wash dishes and against military service for yeshiva stu- clean the house,” recalled Arnon. “I dents like we did against military serv- was totally dumbfounded by the ice for religious women, Ravitz sup- incredible atmosphere of cooperation ported the Tal Law and the Nachal and love in Rabbi Ravitz’s house.” Hachareidi,” said Eichner. The Tal Arnon maintained contact with the Law was an attempt to allow yeshiva Ravitzes for the past three decades, at students to enter the labor market. one point spending every other Before the law was passed yeshiva stu- Shabbat with the family after Arnon dents who asked to postpone mandato- went through a divorce. “Nineteen ry army service were obligated to years ago to the day my father passed devote all of their time to yeshiva stud- away. Today I feel as though I have ies. The Tal Law opened the way for lost a second father.” yeshiva students to make the transition In 1988 Rabbi Menachem Elazar from yeshiva studies to work by allow- Man Shach, the undisputed spiritual ing them to substitute army service for leader of the chareidi yeshiva world a volunteering at a charitable institute tapped Ravitz to serve in the 12th or at a paramedical organization. Knesset as representative of the newly Nachal Chareidi is a special track in created Degel Hatorah Party. Shach the IDF for chareidi soldiers. Both the established Degel Hatorah after a fall- Tal Law and the Nahal Chareidi were out with the Hassidic rabbinical lead- strongly opposed by most of the charei- ership of Agudath Yisrael. Yisraeli, who di leadership. was friendly with Ravitz at the time, “Ravitz had a way of announcing said that Ravitz had no deliberations that Rabbi Steinman favored a partic- whatsoever. “He has always been an ular issue and only later asking his activist,” said Yisraeli. “He aspired to opinion,” said Eichner who reckoned be in the Knesset.” that Ravitz adopted his compromising During his two-decade stint as a approach during the time he was parliamentarian Ravitz was close to involved in Jewish outreach with Or Shach and later to Rabbi Yehuda Leib Sameach. Steinman, who, like Shach, was con- Shmuel Poppenheim, a spokesman nected to the spiritual leadership of for the anti-Zionist, ultra-Orthodox the Bnei Brak-based Ponevezh Yeshiva. Edah Chareidit, criticized Ravitz for In more conservative chareidi circles his liberal views on army service and Ravitz was a controversial figure. educational reforms. “We remember The Toldos Avrohom Yitzchok Rebbe of Yerushalayim, who was in New York According to Ya’acov Eichner, veteran for a short visit, was the sandek at the b’ris made by Rabbi Dovid Katz, son chareidi jounralist and commentator Continued on Page 68 of Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Katz, for his infant son.

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 67 Rabbi Ravitz chareidi MKs, however, he never deputy minister of housing and con- an inspiring family story. After Ravitz Continued from Page 67 served as a full minister. This is due to struction. He retained his seat in elec- suffered kidney failure, his children a theological distinction made by tions in 1996 and 1999. When Ariel and wife all volunteered to give up a with fondness the Ravitz of his heyday chareidi spiritual leaders. Chareidi Sharon formed a new government in kidney to save him. Ravitz’s wife and as a zealot who fought against autop- politicians should not be made a min- 2001, Ravitz was appointed deputy daughters were disqualified for med- sies and against missionary activities. ister since this would make them indi- minister of education. He was re-elect- ical reasons as were three of his sons. But as an MK Ravitz developed all rectly responsible for a wide range of ed in 2003, and in March 2005 was But his remaining two sons contin- sorts of independent ideas that he activities including those that included appointed deputy minister of welfare ued to fight for the right to be the one advanced quietly and deceptively.” the desecration of the Shabbat or and social services. He retained his who would donate a kidney. Ravitz held a number of positions in other forbidden activities. seat again in the 2006 election. Eventually, a lottery was drawn by the Knesset. Like other Ashkenazi In June 1990 Ravitz was appointed In 2002 Ravitz was at the center of one of Ravitz’s grandchildren to decide the matter. On November 27, 2008 Ravitz announced that he was leaving politics, although he continued to serve as Degel Hatorah chairman. In January 2009, he was hospitalized at Hadassah Ein Kerem due to heart problems. He is survived by his wife, 12 children, and 77 grandchildren. (Jpost.com) O

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68 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS North Shore University Hospital do day to day. The pastoral care Continued from Page 58 opened our minds to this very interest- department gave us an introduction to ing form of the rabbinate. the professional chaplaincy training Chaverim Of Queens Operates Hospital chaplaincy involves sup- process and a taste for clinical pas- On Chesed porting the spiritual, emotional, and toral education (CPE). We shadowed Chaverim of Queens Inc. was religious needs of patients, family both chaplain interns and the full- founded in the memory of the leg- members, and staff in times of dis- time chaplains as they went around, endary ba’al chesed, Mr. Jack tress. Rabbi Charles Sheer, director visiting as many patients as the day Friedman, as an organization to of The Center for Studies in Jewish allowed. They exposed us to all types extend his legacy of helping all who Pastoral Care (CSJPC) at The of departments and units that patients need it. The organization started one HealthCare Chaplaincy who coordi- might find themselves in. No matter year ago with just ten members and an nated the rotation with YU’s Rabbi which floor or room, every patient average of two calls a day. Now, Issac Elchanan Theological Seminary could be empathized with, at least Chaverim of Queens has seen its call (RIETS) and North Shore (where he regarding the sense of loneliness, loss, volume jump to ten times that amount also serves as adjunct chaplain in and restriction to confined space. and now has 30 active volunteers. Members of Chaverim brushing up on addition to their full time Jewish Some referred to being hospitalized as Chaverim of Queens has responded to automotive first aid. chaplain) gave us all a more compre- being in a prison (another place one over 1,000 calls in their first year. The hensive textual and practical under- can work as a chaplain in). On our last organization certainly lives up to the teers who drop what they’re doing, standing of bikur cholim. I have had day, we were given the opportunity to community’s expectations as evi- whether it’s late at night, early in the some experience with this important go out on our own to do visits. This denced by the thank you notes which morning, or in the freezing cold, to go mitzvah, but his presentation and helped push me to my limits and see they receive on a daily basis. out and provide assistance to fellow subsequent discussions during the what areas I needed improvement in The members of Chaverim general- Jews. Additionally, a special thank you week enhanced my knowledge of the and where I could use additional tools ly respond to flat tires, car lockouts, must be given to Maven Motors of topic. I also enjoyed discussions with of the trade. Sometimes the only thing house lockouts, cars out of gas, and Kew Gardens for all the time and peers and hospital staff/faculty that I could offer was to sit beside a dead batteries requiring a boost. effort they spend training the volun- regarding medical ethics and halachic patient and listen to his/her troubles, Some of the more unique calls that teers as a free service! applications and implications. possibly giving some nachas ruach to Chaverim has responded to include To request an application to become a After hearing an interactive and go against their pain or fear/knowl- searches for missing persons, a per- new member or for dedication opportu- engaging presentation from Dr. Dana edge of a bleak prognosis. This shock- son stuck in an elevator, child(ren) nities, please e-mail chaverimofqueens Lustbader that was also attended by ing encounter with so much suffering locked in a car, a car stuck in ice, keys @gmail.com or call 347-684-1155. O members of the hospital’s new bikur really drove compassion home and dropped in a sewer, and even driving a cholim, we were introduced to the caused me to think about being fellow Jew home, right after he got YU Chaplaincy Rotation At North new department of palliative care that mevakesh rachamim for everyone. I into a car accident, ten minutes Shore Hospital she directs. She explained their partic- think this rotation would benefit any- before Shabbos. By Saul Leib Weiner ularly strong interest in chaplains as one who is pursuing semichah, at any The coordinators would like to For an entire week in January, four they deal with managing and alleviat- age. I wish to express my hakaras hatov especially thank the Friedman, Fried, fellow Yeshiva University semichah stu- ing the symptoms of pain (physical, to RIETS, HealthCare Chaplaincy, and Mermelstein families of Queens dents and I were thrown into another emotional, and spiritual), often when and North Shore hospital for making for their continuous support of the world, the world of chaplaincy. Not patients are in end-of-life situations. it possible. O organization. Of course, a special many of our grads are doing the chap- During the actual rotation, I was thank you has to be given to the volun- laincy track nowadays. The rotation in shown hands on, what the chaplains Continued on Page 72

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5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 69 70 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 71 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Yeshiva Ketana emerged from a ruach and warmth. His professional- are appropriate honorees for this Continued from Page 69 vision to create a yeshiva dedicated to ism and attention to detail bring the momentous dinner celebration. Both academic excellence in both limudei atmosphere at Yeshiva Ketana to a Aaron and Esti grew up in this com- Yeshiva Ketana Chanukas HaBayis kodesh and limudei chol. Throughout whole new level. munity, attended the local yeshivos, Dinner, February 14 the last 13 years leading up to this Under the direction of preschool and played a role in Yeshiva Ketana’s On Motzaei Shabbos, February 14, momentous occasion, Yeshiva Ketana director Mrs. Frumie Feig, general creation. Aaron’s successful medical Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island is to of Long Island earned an exemplary studies principal Mrs. Golda Gross, billing business employs many mem- host its Chanukas HaBayis Dinner cel- name for itself educating the boys of and assistant principal Mrs. Larissa bers of our community. He graduated ebration. The yeshiva’s dinner will be a the Five Towns and Far Rockaway Steele, Yeshiva Ketana’s English from Yeshiva of Far Rockaway and still communitywide event and will take community. The unique nature of the department is staffed with some of the meets his chavrusa there late at night place at the yeshiva’s new state-of-the- yeshiva—encompassing small class finest and highest accredited educa- following long days of work. Aaron art facility. size, personal attention for each stu- tors in the elementary-school field, maintains close ties with local rabban- Yeshiva Ketana’s history dates back dent, an emphasis on developing prop- bearing master’s degrees in education, im and rashei yeshiva and sits on the 13 years ago to a handful of visionaries er midos, and a rigorous curriculum special education, early childhood, and board of his local shul, Bais Medrash who merely dreamt of a new yeshiva stressing both limudei kodesh and psychology from the preeminent uni- of Harborview. Esti, too, maintains concept. At that time, they agreed to limudei chol—has made Yeshiva versities and master’s programs. deep community ties. As a graduate of become pioneer parents in the new Ketana a model for yeshivos around the Yeshiva Ketana’s English department TAG, the very creative Esti Felder Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island. And country. Yeshiva Ketana’s approach to has charted its course “ahead of the spends most of her time involved in they never looked back. Jewish and secular education stresses curve” at every level, with individual various tzedakah projects (Little The Chanukas HaBayis Dinner will a skills-based curriculum in a nurtur- student attention, staff workshops, Miracles, Shlach Lachmecha)—devot- celebrate the yeshiva’s recent move to ing environment with an uncompro- and numerous programs that bring ing most of her free time to assisting its Inwood campus. This past mising commitment to Torah Yeshiva Ketana to a standard of educa- families in need. Together, Aaron and September, the yeshiva went from hashkafos and midos tovos. tion well above average. Such educa- Esti exemplify askanus and chesed and being housed in a few rented class- Yeshiva Ketana could not have tional enhancements include numer- are community role models. rooms beneath a North Woodmere accomplished these feats without its ous programs for all grades such as a Rabbi Dov and Mrs. Ruchi Edell are synagogue into a pristine complex that esteemed leaders and educators. At the well-attended science club for grades the perfect choice for receiving the contains 22 classrooms, an early child- helm of the yeshiva is the menahel, 3-5, E2K for math and science for jun- Educators Award from the yeshiva this hood center, outdoor and indoor play Rabbi Tzvi Bajnon, who has endeared ior high school students, book publish- year. Since joining the Yeshiva Ketana areas, secular and limudei kodesh himself to parents and students for his ing for second grade, and Academic family in 2005, Rabbi Edell is respon- libraries, a gymnasium, and, of course, warmth, his accessibility and his K.I.D. (Knowledge, Information, and sible for the ever-growing ruchniyus a beis midrash. The Yeshiva Ketana hands-on leadership. Under Rabbi Data), among others. that has taken the yeshiva from its campus also accommodates a resource Bajnon’s watchful eye, Yeshiva Ketana In addition to the Chanukas infancy to adulthood—and it is no sur- room and a therapy center and is host ensures that each talmid is known by HaBayis celebration, the yeshiva will prise. Rabbi Edell displays a unique to special-education accommodations. name, with a focus on creating pay tribute to outstanding individuals blend of affability and industriousness Dinner attendees will see firsthand mentchen as well as talmidei and prominent members of our com- that has earned him the love of stu- how the yeshiva has implemented the chachamim and supporters of Torah. munity who exemplify dedication and dents and parents alike. With his most advanced and useful technolo- Students are not just numbers passing devotion to superior yeshiva chinuch. untiring concern for the well-being of gies, such as smartboards in each through the conveyor belt of the ele- The Yeshiva’s Guests of Honor this every child, Rabbi Edell has sustained classroom, a state-of-the-art computer mentary-school process. Rabbi Dov year are Aaron and Esti Felder. As the credo of the yeshiva by being the lab, and a fully equipped and modern Edell, the yeshiva’s associate principal, longtime residents of the Five Towns/ consummate mentor to every student science lab. has infused the yeshiva with incredible Far Rockaway community, the Felders who walks its halls. Ruchie Edell is an

72 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

accomplished educator in her own porters. Nevertheless, she gained In her motivational presentation What are the most effective ways to right. A graduate of BYA, Ruchie holds admission to a prestigious high school titled “Finding Success in the Business network within my industry and find a a master’s degree in special education and an Ivy League university attended Jungle: A Corporate Veterinarian’s mentor? from Adelphi University. Ruchie is a by only a small number of African- Perspective” and in her media inter- How can entry-level or junior-level special-ed teacher for the District of American students. She also persisted views, Dr. Mobley addresses provoca- workers attract the attention needed New York, based out of Bnos Bais in her dream of attending veterinary tive questions like these: for a promotion, and how can midlevel Yaakov. As a testament to their com- school, and went on to become a mem- How can I pursue an ambitious workers continue their rise to the top bined expectations for excellence in ber of this profession in which only dream when I seem to be surrounded of a company? education, Rabbi Dov and Mrs. Ruchi two percent of all veterinarians are by more cynics and skeptics than sup- How can I avoid making the most Edell have three boys in Yeshiva African-American. porters? common mistakes made by those seek- Ketana and a daughter in playgroup. Now, Dr. Mobley is empowering How can I re-energize what seems ing to advance their careers? Prior to the yeshiva’s arrival, the others by sharing the lessons she has like a “dead-end job” without moving What actions can women and people quaint homes that line Inwood have learned on her own journey, showing out of that sector of business? of color take to advance their careers, never before seen a Torah project of them how to achieve happiness and How can I break into a totally differ- and what resources are available to this magnitude. With the recent out- fulfillment not just in the workplace ent career discipline if I don’t already growth of the Far Rockaway, but in their personal lives as well. have expertise in that area? Continued on Page 77 Lawrence, Cedarhurst, and even Woodmere and North Woodmere communities over the last decade, the affordable Inwood is ripe for expan- sion—and the Hon. Jesse Mistero is just the man who is up to the task. As a recipient of the yeshiva’s Community Service Award, Jesse Mistero has exemplified the true meaning of “mentch.” With his close relationships to the Building and Sanitation Departments, Commissioner Mistero played a crucial role in ensuring that the yeshiva’s construction ran smoothly and without impediment. With Inwood’s proximity to community shuls, parks, and shopping areas, the yeshiva is Inwood’s first spark of new life and Torah, whose flames will surely spread quickly. Finally, the yeshiva will be presenting Hakoras Hatov Awards to those individuals whose extraordinary commitment, fortitude, and hard work made the dream of a new home for Yeshiva Ketana a reality. Yeshiva Ketana urges each member of this community to join in this momentous occasion in the history of the Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island, our community’s newest makom Torah. Be a part of Yeshiva Ketana’s future! For further information about the yeshiva, please contact Rabbi Shalom Siegfried at the yeshiva at 516-791-2800, ext. 1017. O

Finding Success in the Business Jungle: A Corporate Veterinarian’s Perspective At any other time, you would expect a motivational speaker to urge audiences to pursue their dreams without any thought of limitation. With the U.S. economy now officially in a reces- sion and millions of Americans feeling the pain of skyrocketing unemploy- ment rates, perhaps now is the time to “hunker down” and be grateful for a moderate level of corporate success. That’s not the advice Dr. Daphne Mobley has been giving the audiences who attend her motivational presentations, however. Instead, Dr. Mobley has been sharing her unique story— first fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian, and then playing a key role in one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies, where she worked closely with the chairman and CEO of that Fortune 500 firm. Dr. Mobley recalls how difficult it was, as a young girl, to find support for her ambitious dreams. Growing up in the Bronx, the idea of pursuing a career in science was defi- nitely “thinking out of the box,” and there were far more skeptics than sup- 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 73

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Asking ...... $1.25M Call 516-902-0936 Investment property for sale. Call 516-322-3555 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Small multi-family building located in Lawrence— New construction on about the heart of Far Rockaway. Stable ten- 1/2 acre ...... $1.295M ancy, well-maintained. For more infor- Commercial for Sale mation please contact Ari Schulman at Hempstead — 3 story office building. Weissman Realty Group 516-791-6100 Elevator. POR Co-ops—Woodmere —1BR, 2BR. Under market value...... $100's and $200's REAL ESTATE Dalia Fritz 516-374-4411 FOR SALE Woodmere — Renovated 1BR/ Jr.4, lg. Fyr, ss/granite, lots of storage, elevator bldg. ID/OD prkg avail. Near All. Owner 917-402-6630 Lawrence — Brick contemporary. 6 BR 7 bths. 8800 interior. Mint 1.2 acre prop. Far Rockaway/Lawrence: 2 BR/ 2 BA, ...... $2+M. or $10k mo. Newly Renovated, Dead-end street, Cedarhurst — 3 BR colonial . . . $399K Price...... $539K Woodmere — 3 BR ranch. Mint . $499K Call Owner: 516-750-9257 Smolinsky Properties 516-295-4444 Kings Point Delray Beach condo for Woodmere — Charming & spacious 7 sale 1,100 sq. feet. 2 BR, 2 bths, new bedrooms, 3.5 bath Ch Colonial, 2 dens European kitchen and appliances, close to house of worship . . . . $899,000 updated bath, new carpets, 24-hour Pugatch.com 295-3000 guarded community. Golf, theater, library ...... $199,999 Call 631-664-0075 Cedarhurst — Lovely 4 bedroom 3.5 bath Tudor Colonial with new Eik, finished basement...... $599,000 Woodmere — Brand new construction on Pugatch.com 295-3000 Clubhouse Road in the heart of Woodmere Park. Contemporary style home. 6 BR, 4 Bths, custom granite kosher kitchen, Miami Beach — Tower 41. Ocean View. Radiant Heat, Alarms, Camera equipped, 1 bdrm, 17th floor. Stunning. hardwood floors, plus much, much more. 732-522-0813 Price reduced ...... $1.55M Call Sherri 516-297-7995 Cedarhurst: Nu to Mkt. Handyman Woodmere Park — Brand new Special/ Builder, 50'x100',Quiet Block, Mediterranean style construction. 6 BR, 3.5 Prime loca'n, Quick Sale: . . . . . $329K Bths, kosher granite kitchen, Radiant heat, 5 Town Homes 516-569-5710 Alarms, Camera equipped ...... $1.5M Far Rockaway — Beach 3rd. 4 BR, 2.5 bths, townhouse, finished basement, Far Rockaway: Coop, 3Br, 1Bth EIK...... $650K Lr/Dr, Walk to All ...... $179K Call Weissman Realty Group 516-791-6100 Call 516-322-3555 Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100

Woodmere — Lovely 4 Bedroom 3 bath Open houses Lawrence Split with full basement, huge den, 425 Broadway — 6 BR, c/h col., new deck close to Young Isreal . . . $569,000 kitchen and bths. 3-4:30 p.m . . . . $795K Pugatch.com 295-3000 New to market — Totally restored 3 story grand brick col. 7+ BR, many Lawrence: OURS ONLY!! details, large property BRICK, C/H COL, Stately BRICK, w/old For rent world charm, Hi ceilings, 6Br, 4.5 Renovated 4-5 BR homes BTHS, Kosher Eik, Lg. LR W/FPL, Lg. Condo in luxury doorman bldg FDR, Library, Fin. Bsmt., Lg Prop., Woodmere/Woodsburgh by appt WALK ALL. 137 Park St. — 6 BR, c/h col. 3400 sq ft. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 1031 Dartmouth Lane — 5 BR, bi level, park setting...... $600's 75 Wood Lane — Mint 5 BR, c/h col, lg Cedarhurst Open House Sunday 1-2:30 property PM 603 Church Ave — Mint and dramatic 451 Summit Avenue— 5 BR, 2.5 Bath, split 11-12:30 ...... $649K 50x150 lot. Reduced! ...... $499K West Lawrence 156 B. 9 — New condo Jessica Silver Realty 516-295-0306 bldg–steps to beach sale or rent 12-2 p.m. Inwood — Large commercial property with adjoining residential lot. May be sold separately Valley Stream: Nu 2 Mkt. Brick ranch, Milky Forst Properties Inc 516-239-0306 great condition, quiet street. Nu EIK, LR, Den, Lg Prop ...... $439K For Rent ...... $2,500 Classified Ads are Continued on the Next Page. 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 75 CLASSIFIED ADS Continued from Page 75 FOR RENT FOR RENT MISCELLANEOUS FOR RENT Woodmere/Cedarhurst — 2 BR avail- Lawrence — 18 Berkley Place Want To Purchase minerals and other able. Secure buildings, new EIK, close Center hall col., 4 BR, 3 bths, stunning oil/gas interests. Send details to: P.O. to all and train station ...... $1,600 Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201 cul-de-sac, best location. $4K monthly Call Sherri 516-297-7995 Cedarhurst: Garden apt. Nu 2 Mkt. Far Rockaway listings: Call Irene 516-652-7099 Free DIRECTV 4 Room System! 265 2BR. 2Bth, Mint, 1st Flr, heat & prk Plainview/ Beach 11 — 3 and 4 BR, 2 Channels! Starts $29.99/month. Free incld. $2,500. Far Rockaway/Bayswater — Colonial HBO + Showtime + Starz! Free 5Town Homes 516-569-5710 bths, new construction, plenty of clos- ets, washer/dryer hookup, parking, no 3+ BR house for rent. Best location. DVR/HD! 130 HD Channels! No Start Up Costs! Ends Soon! Local Installers! Far Rockaway — 2 Huge Office Spaces. rental fee. Reduced rent. Call Avromy Newly renovated. All new! Must see! 347-752-0948 1-800-306-1953 6,000 and 2,500 Sq Ft. 2nd Floor. Near Reduced rent. Beautiful block. New Subway & LIRR. Build to Suit. Can be Neilson Street — 4 BR, 2 bths in 2 family house. Brand new construction. Kosher EIK. 917-807-6476 A New Computer Now!!! Brand Name divided. Owner 917-359-9776 laptops & desktops. Bad or No Credit- Washer/dryer hookup, parking, reason- No Problem. Smallest weekly payments able rent. Call Weissman Realty Group Rockville Centre — 3,500 sq ft, fully Lawrence — Furnished basement apt. avail. It's yours Now. Call 800-840-5439 wired for Web, partitioned, will divide. 516-791-6100 Extra large room plus separate new Call 516-322-3555 Hicksville Road — 2 BR, 1 bth, ground floor, new windows, new kitchen, per- kitchen. Leave message with details. DIRECTV Free 4 Room System! 265+ Channels! Starts $29.99/month. Free fect for elderly, available immediately. Cedarhurst — NU House, CH 516-239-2571 HBO + Showtime + Starz! Free Col.LR,FDR, Kosher Eik, $1,350. Call Weissman Realty Group DVR/HD! 130 HD Channels! No Start Den,4BR.3BTHS. Bsmt...... …$3,200 516-791-6100 Nicest house rental in Far Rockaway. Up Costs! Ends Soon! Local Installers! 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Weissman Realty Group, LLC 516-791-6100 1-800-973-9027 Beautiful, Ready to move in, 5 BR house Commercial Fountainbleu Hotel Miami Beach, on excellent block in Far Rockaway. Ocean Corp. Houston, Texas. Train for Hewlett — Warehouse over 3,000 sf. Florida— Magnificent studio apt, 800 Brand new kitchen and very spacious New Career. Underwater Welder, POR. Office about 1,100 sf . . . . . $1,500 square feet, can sleep 4-6. Rent per day Commercial Diver, NDT/Weld backyard. Call owner 917-617-0768 Hempstead — Offices from 1,000-4,500 or week. Also available for Passover. Inspector. Job placement and financial sf. POR. 347-804-4666 aid for those who qualify, 1-800-321-0298 Dalia Fritz 516-374-4411 Far Rockaway — Large One Bedroom Lawrence — Beautiful Center Hall Apartment for rent. Beautiful elevator Cedarhurst — Nu House CH Col. LR, Colonial, Great location, Close to Far bldg. Nice tenancy. Great location at FDR, Kosher EIK, Den, 4BR, 3BTHS. Rockaway, 4 BR, 2.5 bath, Brand new Neilson and Cornaga, near Shor Yoshov, For the next issue, Bsmt. For Rent ...... $2,500 granite kosher kitchen, new appliances, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 transportation, and shopping. study, den. Call Owner: 516-316-3176 Asking $1,100. Call 718-692-2525 ext. 180 the deadline for placing Far Rockaway — Apartment available. Cedarhurst — House Rental LR/FDR, Cedarhurst — All new, bright 3 BR, 1.5 a classified ad is Brand new construction. Furnished or den, 3br, 2.5bth, Fin. Bsmt . . . . . $2,300 unfurnished. 3 BR, 2bths. Cleaning and bths, ground floor apt in 2-family house, Call 516-322-3555 laundry services available. Perfect for LR, FDR, EIK/ w new appliances, new Monday, the elderly. Call Sherri 516-569-5450 carpet, w/d included, yard and parking. Far Rockaway — Lg. Hse Rental: 4br, Walk all ...... $2,250 2bth, bsmt., hi-ceilings, NU bths, W\D. February 2 Lawrence — 247 Rockaway Tpke, 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710 Spacious house for rent, newly renovat- Call 516-322-3555 at 5:00 P.M. ed, 4/5 BR, 2 Bath, LR, FDR, new gran- N Wdm. — house rental. Hi-ranch in ite kitchen, fireplace, large yard, Cedarhurst: Office rental: Executive 2 garage...... $2,700 Bths, Fully Web wired, 1,250 sq. ft., MIC. 4 br, CAC, den, on quiet street. Call 516-569-0502 917-642-4308, [email protected] CAC. 5TGR 516-322-3555 5 TOWN HOMES 516-569-5710

76 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES

AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS to positions with a number of Steven and Aliza Siegel, Dr. place a personal or business House is featuring the work of Continued from Page 73 leading pharmaceutical com- Roger and Mrs. Sarah ad in the journal. The evening American photographer and panies including Johnson & Kasendorf, Richard and Erika should prove to be a very spe- emerging artist Michele help? Johnson, Merck, and Wyeth. Prafder, Steven Bernstein, and cial and memorable one. Huttler Silver, in a show enti- Drawing on her extensive At Wyeth, she reported directly Josh Fitterman. All of the hon- The BACH was founded in tled: “Women and Hair personal experience and shar- to the former chairman and orees exemplify outstanding 1946 as a Jewish organization Covering.” The exhibit cele- ing the tips and strategies that CEO, which led to a promo- dedication, community serv- with a unique focus on educa- brates women from all over the have worked effectively for tion to become the company’s ice, and leadership and have tion and outreach for youth. world who express their spiri- herself and those she has vice president of corporate played an integral role in the BACH alumni have gone on to tuality through the act of cov- mentored, Dr. Mobley will diversity. Dr. Mobley is now growth and success of the become leaders in their respec- ering their hair, and addresses share information that will focusing full time on sharing BACH. tive communities throughout questions about hair covering support men and women of all the lessons she has found most The BACH Annual Dinner the world, and have attributed as it affects women in religion. backgrounds in succeeding valuable in her own corporate is the BACH’s single largest much of their success to their “Women and Hair Covering” despite today’s challenging career, and she currently fundraising event of the year. early BACH experiences. will be on display from January business environment. Dr. maintains an active schedule Proceeds help to fund its vast Although the BACH still has a 14 until March 13. Mobley is also happy to take as a mentor and public speak- array of unique and diverse special focus on children, The opening reception and calls from listeners and can er. Dr. Mobley is a member of programs for varied ages and under the able leadership of panel discussion will take place offer solutions tailored to the American Veterinary backgrounds, which include Rabbi Eli and Mrs. Beila on Thursday, February 12, 6:00- each caller’s situation. Medical Association, Delta “Pray and Play,” “Mommy and Goodman, the BACH has 8:00 p.m., in the fourth-floor Born in the Bronx, from her Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Me with a Jewish twist,” made Judaism accessible to gallery of the Florence and earliest years Dr. Daphne and The Executive Leadership “Sushi Under the Stars,” “Bar Jews of all ages and affiliations Chafetz Hillel House at Boston Mobley dreamt of becoming a Council. O & Bat Mitzvah Jewish throughout the Long Beach, University, 213 Bay State Road, veterinarian so she could alle- Discovery Courses,” “BACH Lido Beach, and Atlantic Boston, MA 02215. viate the pain and suffering of BACH Announces Annual Bombers” baseball, kickboxing Beach communities. For more The panel discussion, animals. After attending the Gala Dinner, February 28 classes, various weekly Torah information about the gala cosponsored by the Boston prestigious Bronx High School The Bachurei Chemed, study classes, and more. dinner, to make a reservation, University Catholic Center, of Science, she earned a bach- fondly known as “the BACH” Please join the BACH com- or place a journal ad please will feature women from vari- elor of science degree from is pleased to announce that its munity at its upcoming dinner call 516-897-2473 or visit ous religious orders to speak Cornell University in the field 2009 Annual Dinner will take to pay tribute to its outstand- www.BachYouth.com. O on the subject of women and of animal science, and then a place Saturday evening, ing honorees and to share in hair coverings as it pertains to doctorate in veterinary medi- February 28 at 7:45 p.m. at the its exciting vision and goals Women And Hair Covering, the different cultures and cine from the University of Crest Hollow Country Club in for the future. Please call or January 14—March 13 observances. This event is Florida College of Veterinary Woodbury, New York. This e-mail if you are interested in The Rubin-Frankel Gallery Medicine. That experience led year’s esteemed honorees are joining or if you would like to at Boston University Hillel Continued on Page 82

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 77 alliances with Jewish and Park on Sunday, January 18. referred to as apes and pigs Message To The President: Christian organizations who Representatives of the Jewish and other chilling epidemio- have firsthand knowledge of Community Relations Council logical metaphors that are the baneful and pernicious were also present as members reminiscent of Nazi incite- “Stop Radical Islamic Terrorism” ideology of radical Islam. discussed the political and reli- ment,” he ruefully observed. Since the announcement of gious commonalities of the In a reference to the 9/11 B Y FERN SIDMAN the White House. The the protest rally, such organi- two communities and explored attacks Mr. Dosapati asserted Coalition For Peace is a nas- zations as the Zionist Organi- avenues of cooperation in that the free world must As the mercury precipitously cent movement comprised of zation of America, Americans working towards embracing demand that “Saudi Arabian dropped, demonstrators from Hindu, Jewish, and Christian For a Safe Israel, the Jewish tolerance and celebrating assets must be seized in order the Coalition For Peace organi- organizations who are sounding Action Alliance, Christians’ diversity. to pay for the Islamists’ crimes zation braved the biting cold a clarion call to the Western Israel Public Action Camp- Mr. Dosapati, an erudite against humanity” and on the and subfreezing temperatures world of the imminent dangers aign, Christians and Jews and voluble spokesman subject of the vitriolic hubris in the nation’s capitol on that jihadists represent. United For Israel, and the addressed the assemblage on being incessantly spewed January 20 in order to send a Spearheaded by Satya Maccabean Resistance Move- the dangers of Islamic extrem- forth by Iranian president clear message to President Dosapati of the Hindu ment have stepped forward ism and how it impacts on Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, he Barack Hussein Obama on his Human Rights Watch and and endorsed this event. both communities. “In the said, “Iran must be forced to inauguration day. With calls to Arish K. Sahani of the Indian Events leading up to the name of world peace, we must halt its nuclear weapons pro- “protect the free world from American Intellectuals Inauguration Day protest call upon our new president gram that has directly threat- radical Islam,” the 30 demon- Forum, the Coalition For included a meeting of both to reform radical Islamist ened Israel. Right now, Iran is strators staged a peaceful Peace has brought its message Jewish and Hindu community madrassas so that these engaging in a proxy war protest in Lafayette Park, to the proscenium of the leaders that took place in a pri- schools stop teaching hate. against Israel by bankrolling directly across the street from political arena by forging vate residence in Highland Jews and other “infidels” are its chief surrogates, namely Hamas and Hezbollah.” Concerning the heinous slaughter that was perpetrated against Indians and Jews in the recent Mumbai massacre, he stated, “We must recognize that Pakistan has played a double-game with the U.S.; presenting itself as a friendly ally of America, while, at the same time, hosting terrorists who are plotting to murder all non-Muslims, especially targeting their next door neighbors in India.” Carrying signs and placards saying, “Protect Israel From Rocket Attacks,” “Our Demand For Gas Indirectly Funds Hamas and Hezbollah,” “Denuclearize Iran and Pakistan,” “Protect India From Terrorist Attacks,” and “Stop the Islamic Conquest of The Promised Land” the protestors, mainly composed of Hindus from the Central New Jersey area along with a cadre of exceptionally devoted Christians and several Jews gathered in Lafayette Park and raised their collective voices in outrage and indignation against a “multiculturalist rela- tivism” that gives free license to forces of evil as manifested in radical Islam. “Islamist terrorism is a problem not just for Israel and India, but for the entire Free World. It is also a problem for Muslims who yearn for freedom of thought, as opposed to the tyranny imposed on them by Islamist theology,” said Narain Kataria, of Queens, one of the organizers of the protest. The demonstrators argue that radical political Islam, fueled by oil revenues, “is nothing short of a threat to humanity and freedom of thought. It is absolutely essential for the U.S., the world’s only superpower to take the lead in exterminating terrorism from the face of the earth. Mr. Obama, yes, you can,” said Mr. Kataria. The demonstrators point out that the same ideology 78 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES that led to the terrorism that struck any more territorial compromises.” said, “As a Jew, I’ve come here to join here. This is beyond shameful.” Mumbai in November and during the Sandra and Ed Warmoth of the this coalition with the Hindus and The protestors eventually left their last ten years resulted in the murder of Maccabean Resistance Movement and Christians not because, ‘the enemy of stations behind the iron fences that some 18,000 Indians (in 60,000 terror the Builders of Zion organization trav- my enemy is my friend’ but because we surrounded them in Lafayette Park incidents), has plagued Israel for eled from Orlando, Florida to attend. have a commonality of cultures. We and took their banners and signs out in decades. The same ideology that “The world must understand that the are peace seeking peoples who wish to the street where scores of inauguration threatens to wipe out Israel has been Islamist hegemony is an obdurate and live in a world with mutual respect for attendees and onlookers looked with brutal to minorities in Islamic coun- implacable enemy of freedom. one another and the forces of radical curiosity at the demonstrators. Most tries such as Pakistan and Bangladesh Jerusalem and the entire Promised Islam represent the complete antithe- appeared unaware of the issues pre- where in the last 60 years the minority Land is under attack by Arab-Muslim sis of this concept.” sented on the signs. Others seemed population was reduced from 25% to forces fighting an Islamic war by proxy Incensed by the lack of a formidable bewildered while others perceived 1% in Pakistan and 30% to 7% in them as an inauguration novelty and Bangladesh. stopped to take photographs. There Linda Rivera, a Christian supporter were some who queried the protestors of Israel and staunch advocate of erad- and engaged in spirited and sometimes icating Islamic terrorism said, “We The same ideology that threatens bellicose debate, while others mut- cannot forget the 3.5 million tered imprecations under their breath. Christians slaughtered by the Jihad in Said Jim Melton, 58, a self-described the Sudan. We cannot forget the fact to wipe out Israel has been brutal liberal, “Can anyone blame the that coptic priests and other Christian Palestinians in Gaza for launching ‘fire clergy have been murdered by Islamic to minorities in Islamic countries. crackers’ in to Israel? After all, Israel fanatics. It is imperative to remain cog- started this conflict by closing off the nizant of the fact that Jihadists would border crossings in to Gaza and caus- love nothing more than to force every ing a horrific humanitarian crisis. The non-Muslim to live under the dracon- wholesale slaughter of innocent ian Sharia Law where basic human under the guise of ‘Palestinian’ self- Jewish presence at the protest, one per- Palestinian civilians—women and chil- rights will be expunged.” determination. The ‘Palestinian’ myth son who wished to remain anonymous dren—in a UN school was deplorable, Richard Hellman of the Christians’ began taking root after 1967 as a means declared, “What I’m totally outraged and Israel should be charged in an Israel Public Action Campaign, the to garner world support for the Islamic about is that this demonstration has a international court with war crimes.” largest Christian pro-Israel lobby goal of ridding the Middle East of the pitiful Jewish turnout. The Christians In response to Melton’s comments, group on Capitol Hill made his pres- Jewish nation. It is a way of eradicating and Hindus are here pleading the case one parade attendee commented, ence known at the demonstration by Israel through propaganda because the for Israel, speaking truth in the face of “The irony of it all is that the calum- stating, “We support peace, justice, Arab-Muslim bloc has failed to accom- slander directed at Israel, and none of nies being promulgated against Israel and freedom in the Middle East and as plish their collective goal militarily. the Jewish organizations who ostensibly by the Saudi-owned U.S. media such we work assiduously in Congress Over the years, this propaganda, along endorsed this protest are here. Where prompts someone like him who is obvi- to lobby against a two-state solution, with the weapons of oil and terrorism, are the members of the ZOA, AFSI, or ously abysmally ignorant of the truth the fallacious concept of “land for has been increasingly securing interna- the Jewish Action Alliance? Are these to make such comments. That is exact- peace” as the panacea for Israeli- tional support, including support at the organizations only paper tigers? Are ly why these protestors are here Palestinian tensions and we work to highest levels of the United States gov- they moribund remnants of Jewish today—to set the record straight, to abrogate any “road map to a purported ernment,” they said. activism? They knew of this important debunk these egregious myths about peace” that will see Israel engaging in Matt Abelson, 28, of Manhattan demonstration and yet they are not Israel and I applaud their efforts.” O

5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 79 Five Towns Simcha Gallery Photos By Captured Images Photo By Azamra Events

Mazel tov to David and Simone Ambalo Mazel Tov to Ronnon and Renee Feldman on the of Woodmere on the Bar Mitzvah of their Bat Mitzvah of their daughter Chani, a proud HAFTR son Yaakov. The celebration was held at student. The celebration took place at the Young Israel the Hewlett-East Rockaway Jewish of Hillcrest on January 11. Entertainment was Center on January 10. provided by Azamra Events.

80 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 81 AROUND THE FIVE TOWNS Continued from Page 77

open to the public. The single act of hair covering, practiced in many cultures, has led women around the globe to a myriad of emo- tions. Is the practice of covering one’s head an act of empowerment or entrap- ment? This exhibit covers women of many faiths. The pictures have been shot all over the globe, from Israel to Mexico to New York and Los Angeles. It explores the questions of modernity vs. tradition, of faith in the context of the choices, and of the rights of women everywhere. For years, women all over the world have been struggling with maintaining their traditions and faith while being pulled by societal norms of modernity and the fashions and looks of today’s times. This exhibit is meant to reflect the serenity of the religious call to modesty, as it pits itself against the contemporary ethos of transparency before the world. During the course of her graduate work, Michele Huttler Silver studied various cultures through disciplines of anthropology, sociology, religions, and art. Her observations of devout women of many major religions showed that women cover their hair as a declaration of their religious expression. “As an observant Jewish woman who stems from an extensive rabbinic dynasty, I covered my hair during much of my marriage. There have been those who have admired my choice of covering my hair and keeping my traditional values, while others found my choice archaic and quaint. This ambiguity of perception became important to me and helped me empathize with women of all faiths who cover their hair. I applaud their efforts to maintain their modesty and traditions as they honor their religion in a secular world. Through the lens, I have developed a much clear- er understanding of myself and the world at large, which, in turn, has led me to further my own creativity and spirituality. This has allowed me to explore the world, and through that exploration understand more. This exhibit is a celebration of women’s spiritual expression from all over the world, connecting women who cover their hair. It has been a privilege to have photographed these beautiful women who so strongly believe in their convictions and who embrace the inher- ent beauty of their spirituality and religion.” O 82 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES January 30, 2009 83 84 January 30, 2009 5 TOWNS JEWISH TIMES