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Rabbi’s Musings Blue And White BDS Struggles Stories Of Greatness Dating Today With To Live Huckabee Diminishing A Soulful Getting Beyond And His Support Returns Sacrifi ce Catfi shed Of Missionaries By Rabbi Dani Staum In Israel By Rabbi Dovid Hoffman By Goldy Krantz

hen I was a graduate n many ancient European very year new words are student at Fordham By Shmuel Sackett communities, there existed added to the Merriam- WUniversity working Ia pinkas, or sefer kehillos, EWebster Dictionary. Usu- towards my Master’s Degree in which collected documents, ally a word is added when it has Social Work, a fellow student of- do not own a television but I lists, personal memoirs – some become part of everyday speech fered me a piece of advice: If you work out in a gym that does in their original unedited form – when most people have either have the option, try not to have a Ihave a TV. As soon as I enter historical accounts and essays spoken or know of the word. CONTINUED ON P. 9 CONTINUED ON P. 31 SEE THE STORY ON P. 23 CONTINUED ON P. 6 CONTINUED ON P. 61

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14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 1 2 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 3 4 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 5 Stories Of Greatness R’ Dovid Hoffman A Soulful Sacrifi ce

CONTINUED FROM P. 1 their efforts to convince her that the opera my daughter. It is the dream of every Jew- and persuading could not shake her new- was no place for a Torah-observant girl fell ish woman to merit a child who will illumi- found adamant resolve. She forfeited the devoted to the life of the Jewish kehil- on deaf ears. They were at their wits’ end nate the world through his Torah learning. chance at fl eeting fame for a guarantee of los, from antiquity until its demise. It at- and the thought of losing their daughter to I give you my promise that if you sacrifi ce eternal nachas. tempted to illustrate the life that once was this temptation gave them no rest. this opportunity at fame with the opera, R’ Don Segal read this story and was and is no more. Many people have found Herr Shiff decided to take his daughter there will come a time when you will be amazed. Who was this girl and what be- amazing stories and anecdotes about their to their rav, R’ Yosef Baumgarten, zt”l, who blessed with a child who will light up the came of her son? Was he indeed a gadol towns and shtetls, as well as their families, tried to convince her that she should not world. He will eventually become one of hador as the Rebbe predicted? After doing friends, and relatives, in these historical accept the tantalizing offer of the gentile. the great halachic authorities of his time, some research he discovered that this girl ledger books. The mashgiach, R’ Don Segal eventually married and had a son by the shlit”a, recounts a fascinating story that name of Shmuel. This Shmuel grew up to he found in the sefer kehillos of Vienna, Who was this girl and what became of her son? be HaGaon R’ Shmuel Wosner, who was Austria, when he visited the city a number Was he indeed a gadol hador as the Rebbe predicted? the av beis din of Bnei Brak, author of the of years ago. R’ Segal read about a young Shevet Halevi, and one of the outstanding girl with the surname Shiff who was said halachic authorities of our time, until he to have had an unusually beautiful sing- But he, too, was unable to convince her. Fi- a posek hador. My daughter, you will have passed away a few years ago. When R’ Segal ing voice. Her talent was nothing short of nally, R’ Yosef suggested to her father that fame. Your fame will come through him, approached R’ Shmuel Wosner to ask if the professional and she was legendary among he bring her to the Kapischnitzer Rebbe, R’ the mother of a future leader of the Jewish story was true, R’ Wosner emotionally re- her friends and family for her unique gift. Yitzchok Meir Heschel, zt”l, who was in Vi- people!” plied that his mother had never recounted However, for a religious girl in Vienna dur- enna at the time. Immediately, father and The young girl wiped away her tears this story to him. But, he said with tears ing the early half of the 20th century, her daughter set out to visit the Rebbe. The and thought deeply about the magnani- in his eyes, it all made sense now. “When stunning voice didn’t afford her much op- young lady was unsure of how the Rebbe mous promise the Rebbe had just made to I left home to learn in Yeshivas Chachmei portunity. That was, until one day when would react to the offer, but to her surprise, her. She was an upstanding, religious girl, Lublin, my mother begged me to never reports of her amazing potential and talent his reaction was not what she expected. Af- and so, after considering the offer, she ac- stop learning and always remain an ehrli- reached an agent of the famous Vienna op- ter he heard the situation he remarked that cepted the Rebbe’s proposition. She soon che Yid. I remember her words. She told era, who heard her sing and immediately he understood how hard it was for her and informed the agent that she was no longer me, ‘You cannot imagine what I sacrifi ced offered her a position in the opera. It was what a diffi cult predicament she found interested in his offer. All of his cajoling for you!’” quite an honor for the young, impressiona- herself in. Then he asked her, “Tell me, why ble girl, and she was thrilled beyond words. do you want to join the opera? Is it for the Rabbi Dovid Hoffman is the author of the popular “Torah Tavlin” book series, fi lled Her parents, however, did not share her money?” She thought for a moment and with stories, wit and hundreds of divrei Torah, including the brand new “Torah Tavlin sentiments and were increasingly troubled then replied that it wasn’t the money – but Yamim Noraim” in stores everywhere. You’ll love this popular series. Also look for his book, by the offer and their daughter’s reaction the opportunity for fame. If she joined the “Heroes of Spirit,” containing one hundred fascinating stories on the Holocaust. They are to it. They were religious Jews, and a career opera everyone would know her name. fantastic gifts, available in all Judaica bookstores and online at http://israelbookshop- in the opera world was not what they had The Rebbe closed his eyes, deep in publications.com. To receive Rabbi Hoffman’s weekly “Torah Tavlin” sheet on the parsha, in mind for their talented daughter. All of thought, and then replied: “Listen closely, e-mail [email protected]

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14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 7 8 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Rabbi’s Musings & Amusings Rabbi Dani Staum To Live Beyond

CONTINUED FROM P. 1 was the vessel that contained a soul, the life-spark of G-d. Yet, we also bury the body professor who is overly passionate about with simplicity. We do not place it into an what he or she is teaching. If the profes- expensive casket, and we do not gaze at the sor has dedicated her life to the topic be- face of the deceased once the soul has de- ing taught, you will be expected to share parted. Holy and special as the body is, it her excitement and the professor will be still remains the mere vessel. demanding in her expectations for the Since time immemorial, we have always course. deemed those who engage in the sacred I did have a few professors who fi t into work of the preparation and the burying that category. One of them was for a class I of the dead as “the chevrah kadisha – the took entitled, “Death and Dying.” It wasn’t holy group.” The mitzvah of being involved about how to die, as that seemingly doesn’t in bringing a body to proper Jewish burial require any special classes. Rather it was is so sacred, that it is one of the greatest about exploring our own attitudes and merits one can attain. It is the fi nal dignity premonitions towards death and dying, so granted to a deceased. that we can be better prepared to help cli- The manner in which the body is puri- ents who are facing tragedy. fi ed, and then dressed in shrouds with such It was a very powerful and emotion- dignity and reverence, according to the dic- al course, and it presented us with much tates of halachah, is the greatest testimony to refl ect upon. The professor was a not- to our belief that death is not the fi nality of ed author on the topic and this topic was life, but rather a major transition, from one her specialty. It is obvious, however, that level of life to another.

There is no other religion that has the same perspective and laws about death as does Judaism and its Torah no matter how much expertise one has in Because death has meaning, all of life – dealing with tragedy, when faced with such every moment of it – has meaning. moments no one is immune from the raw Parshas VaY’chi contains the Torah’s re- pain and feelings of intense loneliness. cording about the death of Yaakov Avinu. On the fi nal day of the course, all of us Yet, the Torah never actually states that students were asked to stand in a circle Yaakov died, only that “he gathered to his with the professor to share a fi nal refl ec- people.” What’s more, the very parshah tion. When it was my turn, I shared the fol- that contains Yaakov’s death is titled “Yaa- lowing: “Because death has meaning, life kov lived.” Through our good deeds, and has meaning.” through living for a higher purpose, we My professor was very moved by the transcend the limitations of this world quip, as were quite a few other students. Al- and live beyond our physical years. In that though it’s always nice when others think sense, Yaakov lives on in all of us. you are intelligent, to me it was a truism This Shabbos, our community is paying that I had learned years earlier in yeshi- tribute to Team Shabbos, a division of the vah. Chazal constantly remind us that this National Association of Chevra Kadisha. It world is merely a preparation for a much is an organization dedicated to raising and greater world, a world of truth and bliss. As promoting awareness of end-of-life matters the Mishnah states in Avos (4:16): “Prepare according to halachah. yourself in the antechamber, so that you It is such awareness that reminds us that can enter the banquet hall.” because death is sacred and has meaning, There is no other religion that has the our entire lives are sacred and have mean- same perspective and laws about death as ing. does Judaism and its Torah. On the one Although we hope to not need their ser- hand, we ascribe such holiness to the body vices, it is reassuring to know that they are even after it is deceased, simply because it always there for us.

Rabbi Dani Staum, LMSW, is the Rabbi of Kehillat New Hempstead, as well as guidance counselor and fi fth-grade rebbe in ASHAR, and Principal at Mesivta Ohr Naftoli of New Windsor. He can be reached at [email protected]. His website is www.stamtorah.info.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 9 10 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 11 12 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 The Shmuz On The Parshah R’ Ben Tzion Shafier Love Among Brothers he last testament of Jacob to his chil- ishit 49:1), constitute yourselves always then that he would be protected from all third letter of alay, the yod. The paradigm dren is a spiritual testament. When into an assembly, united and loving. Jacob curses except for the three symbolized by for internecine fi ghting and hatred is the Tthe righteous depart from this world, is hereby warning them about the noxious the word “alay.” confl ict between Yosef (whose name be- they do not concern themselves with fi - effects of brotherly hatred and sinat chi- The word alay is composed of three gins with yod) and his brethren. That is the nancial or material matters but with issues nam (gratuitous hatred). Rabbi Horowitz, Hebrew letters, each characterizing one of most insidious of all perils, the possibility of the spirit. Jacob wants his children to the Shelah, writes that “the fi nal redemp- the dangers from which Jacob is not en- of hatred among the brothers, and that is follow in the ways of Abraham and Isaac tion cannot come unless there is unity tirely protected. These are the three most a disease that is most diffi cult to eradicate – that is the legacy of Jacob. In one of the among Israel. Only you have to be together pressing dangers that will beset the Jewish from our midst until this very day. Against most famous exchanges between Jacob and in one assembly” (Shnei Luchot Habrit, III, people throughout history. The fi rst letter, these challenges, Rivkah’s protection could his children, he inquires of them regarding Vayechi). the ayin, represents Esau (whose name be- not be extended. their spiritual commitment. Their reply is The legacy and testament of Jacob, one of the most famous sentences in the therefore, is to be ever vigilant against whole Bible. Reassuring their father that The most pressing issue that preoccupied Jacob these three menaces: (a) the physical ex- their allegiance to G-d is unswerving, they was the future unity among his children termination of our people, (b) the spiritual make the declaration, “Hear, O Israel, the assimilation and erasing of our separate L-rd is our G-d, the L-rd is one” (Shema Is- identity as Jews, and (c) the gratuitous ha- rael). They are saying in effect, “Listen to us, At one of the major crises in Jacob’s gins with ayin). The fi rst danger is physical tred that constantly threatens our peace our father, Israel; the L-rd is our G-d.” Upon life, when Binyamin is about to be taken persecution and extermination. Indeed, in and ultimate redemption. The State of hearing this beautiful proclamation, Jacob away from him, he plaintively says, “(Now) each generation we are threatened with ex- Israel has served the fi rst purpose greatly thankfully says, “Blessed be the name of Joseph is gone, Shimon is gone, and now tinction by enemies who wish to destroy in our generation. The study of Torah and His glorious kingdom forever (Baruch shem you would take away Benjamin? Upon us. the propagation of outreach programs are kevod malchuto le’olam vaed).” It is for this me (alay) has it all fallen” (Bereishit 42:36). The second letter of alay is lamed, repre- a cure against the second threat. As for the reason that the Jewish people have adopt- What is Jacob’s complaint, who promised senting Laban. That is the hazard of assim- third peril, the existence of gratuitous ha- ed the custom of saying this phrase im- him that he would be spared troubles? ilation, as it was Laban who wished to in- tred among brothers, it is upon each one mediately after the Shema, to express the The Vilna Gaon writes that the word alay tegrate Jacob into his family and thus erase of us in our personal lives to extirpate it same praise with which Jacob blessed his (upon me) is the same word used by his his separate identity. Laban is the paradigm from our hearts and to conduct ourselves children (Rambam, Laws of Kriyat Shema, mother, Rivkah, when she urged him of the assimilationist infl uences. always in such a way that we increase unity 1:4). to disguise himself as Esau and grab the The third menace is represented by the among all Jews. However, the most pressing issue that blessing from his father, Isaac. Fearing preoccupied Jacob was the future unity that he would be cursed by his father Born and bred in Kew Gardens Hills, R’ Ben Tzion Shafier joined the Choftez Chaim Ye- among his children. Recalling the enmity when found out, she reassures him with shiva after high school. Shortly thereafter he got married and moved with his new family to between Joseph and his brothers, Jacob the words,“alay kilaltecha” – the curse will Rochester, where he remained in for 12 years. R’ Shafi er then moved to Monsey, NY, where he wants to gather them together, that is to in- not fall on you but upon me (alay). That was a Rebbe in the new Chofetz Chaim branch there for three years. Upon the Rosh Yeshiva’s spire them to be united always. Hence, he is the reason that Jacob wonders why all request, he stopped teaching to devote his time to running Tiferes Bnei Torah. R” Shafi er, a says to them, “Assemble yourselves” (Bere- this has fallen upon him! He understands happily married father of six children, currently resides in Monsey.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 13 A Shabbat Thought R’ David Algaze

Make Sure Brain Is On Before Putting Mouth In Gear

“But as for me, when I traveled from Pad- into exile, they will pass along that road The Sensitivity of a Tzadik sitive, rather than cause him pain. “I can’t am, Rachel died on me in the land of Canaan where she is interred. Rachel will cry out The answer to this question is that Yaa- be the one to cause another Jew to suffer.” on the road, while there was still about a be- with bitter weeping, and her tears will save kov Avinu was extraordinarily guarded in We also see a second point: an incredi- ras of land to go to Efras, and I buried her the Jewish people.” what he said. Every word was measured; ble example of discretion. Yaakov was ex- there on the road in Efras, which is Bethle- The Sifsei Chachamim explains why every expression was weighed. And he had tremely guarded in the words that came hem.” Yaakov chose this particular moment in a policy: “I am not the one to cause suffer- out of his mouth. Yaakov had been separat- – B’reishis 48:7 time to explain this to Yosef – “If not now, ing to others. If I tell Yosef why I buried his ed from his beloved son for 22 years. For when?” He hadn’t told him up until then mother on the road, I will have to tell him those two decades, Yaakov was living in a aakov Avinu spent the fi nal 17 years because he didn’t want to tell him about that the Jewish people will be sent into ex- state of unending mourning. When they fi - of his life in Mitzrayim. While the suffering that was to occur. But he had ile. That fact will cause him much suffer- nally met, Yosef was so fi lled with joy that Ythere, he lived in peace for the fi rst to tell him now, because it would be his ing, and I won’t be a part of it. When he the tears couldn’t be stopped. The love be- time in many, many years and remained last opportunity. He was about to leave this has to hear the bad news, I will tell him, tween the two was overfl owing. And yet, in that state for the rest of his life. Near world. but not a moment sooner. If this will cause there was something that stood between the very end of his days, he called in his them. Yaakov knew that within the heart beloved son Yosef and made an impas- of his son was a sense of resentment, of ill sioned request: “Please do not bury me in With speech, we can build worlds – or destroy them will. In Yosef’s mind, his mother had been Mitzrayim.” mistreated; her fi nal honor had been com- After this event, when Yaakov felt his promised. And his own father was the man end drawing nearer, he again spoke to Yo- This Rashi is diffi cult to understand. him to have questions on my actions, if who dishonored her. sef, saying, “On the road your mother Rachel If Hashem had told Yaakov to bury Ra- this will cause him to feel some element of It wasn’t just at one moment that this died, and I buried her there.” chel there, why didn’t Yaakov explain this resentment toward me, I am willing to pay was a barrier between them. For the next Rashi explains that these two conversa- to Yosef years ago? Why did he allow his that price, rather than cause him the pain seventeen years, every time they spoke tions were connected. In this fi nal meeting, beloved son to feel some sense of ill will of knowing what will occur.” and every time they were together, there Yaakov was expressing something that he against him for so long? Yosef was not a This Rashi illustrates a number of beau- was a certain wedge keeping them apart. had held inside for many years. He was tell- fragile youth who would fall apart if he tiful concepts. First, we see the extraor- And yet Yaakov wouldn’t say a word. Even ing Yosef, “I know that you have harbored heard bad news. He was a mature, sophisti- dinary sensitivity that a tzadik has in not though these feelings were completely un- a complaint in your heart against me. You cated talmid chacham. His role at the time causing another human being to suffer. founded, he wouldn’t talk about it because feel that when your mother died, I didn’t was leader of all of Mitzrayim. He could Even though Yosef could “handle it,” and that would cause a Jew to suffer, and he treat her with due respect. I didn’t bury her have handled the knowledge that the Jew- even though Yaakov would eventually have couldn’t be a part of that. This self-control in a city, or even in an inhabited place, but ish nation would suffer. And Yaakov knew to tell him, he was willing to bear the bur- right there on the road where she died. You that eventually he was going to have to tell den of letting his son think of him as insen- CONTINUED ON P. 29 should know that I did this because Hash- Yosef anyway. Why not just tell him right em commanded me to. Many years from away and eliminate all of those bad feel- Rabbi David Algaze is the founder and Rav of Havurat Yisrael, Forest Hills. He is a noted public now, when N’vuzaradan will force the Jews ings? speaker and author and is the President of the international Committee for the Land of Israel.

14 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Your Say • Readers Write

them or help them in any way. On the tent with Torah, that cannot be bought Dear Editor: contrary! Bibi and his henchmen will and will not desecrate the Shabbos or I was with former Governor Mike prosecute soldiers because they are more support the Women of the Wall or expel were not removed from the Old Jewish Huckabee in Maale Adumim on Tues- concerned with how the world thinks settlers from their homes. Cemetery (despite claims otherwise); day, January 3, at the cornerstone-laying than protecting heroic IDF soldiers. The secular court libeled the hilltop and Traina (date of death unknown), ceremony. The group traveling with him Rabbi Oppenheimer claims that Ne- youth, they imprisoned them without mother of the Vilna Gaon; Chanah, fi rst was given hats with the slogan “Build tanyahu has shown class and dignity. bringing charges, cell-phone companies wife of the Vilna Gaon (d. 1782); and Gi- Israel Great Again,” an obvious tribute Exactly what “class and dignity” is he re- are being allowed to charge exorbitant tel, second wife of the Vilna Gaon, who to Trump’s “Make America Great Again.” ferring to? The class and dignity of being interest and penalties, which hurts the apparently outlived the Gaon (precise We also participated in planting an olive the fi rst Prime Minister in Israel’s history vulnerable, such as widows and orphans date of death unknown). Virtually every tree in what would be the new Hucka- to support the creation of a terror state who cannot fend for themselves. Jew who died in Vilna before the year bee Park. Mayor Benny Kashriel proudly in Israel? The class and dignity of releas- The religious court would not do 1831 was, in fact, buried in the Old Jewish affi rmed that the city of 41,000 residents, ing hundreds of terrorists – with blood these things and, in addition, would not Cemetery. on the outskirts of Jerusalem, would al- on their hands - from prison? (Note: allow the IDF to compromise chareidi re- The petition does not call for the Lith- ways be there, and with the incoming This week’s terrorist truck driver was a quirements in the Army and would not uanian government to cancel plans for Trump administration, the Obama-im- Hamas supporter, recently released from differentiate between someone living in building a new convention center (fund- posed building freeze would come to an Israeli prison by Bibi Netanyahu!) The Yehudah and Shomron and someone liv- ed largely by the EU). It simply asks that an end. The new Regulation law that is class and dignity of destroying homes of ing in the rest of Eretz Yisrael. it be built at a different location in Vilni- presently in the Knesset could be tanta- IDF veterans in some of the settlements? The religious court would replace the us – which can easily be done. mount to declaring sovereignty to Judea Or how about the class and dignity of al- secular court, which is being rejected by A wonderful Vilna resident, Ruta and Samaria, and Maale Adumim could lowing everyone in the world to go to many people now living in Eretz Yisrael. Bloshtein, a shomer Shabbos woman be the fi rst community to realize its new the Temple Mount except Knesset mem- With best wishes for the g’ulah, who bakes challah for members of the status. bers! Is that really “class and dignity”? Shmuel Koenig Vilna k’hilah every Erev Shabbos, has In light of all this – and recognizing Rabbi Oppenheimer ends his letter taken upon herself the responsibility that Arab terror attacks against Israelis by stating that Netanyahu “deserves our of spearheading this write-in campaign. – the latest one in Jerusalem on Sun- support, respect, and admiration, and Dear Editor: She started about a month ago and has day, Januaru 8, with four soldiers killed not ridicule, especially at this time.” My I don’t ordinarily get involved in sign- about 13,000 signatories so far. Since she and over 15 wounded, some critically – dear Rabbi, I humbly disagree. Netanya- ing petitions, but this is a matter that reached 3,000 signatures, the political it seems preposterous for talk of a PA hu deserves the same treatment from cries out for protest against the massive authorities now have little choice but state, and the “two-state solution” to the Israeli citizens that the American cit- desecration that is about to take place. to take the petition into account before continue. izens just gave Obama: a goodbye pres- I’m sure you know that the Lithuanian making any hasty decision. Yes, our entire trip with Governor ent. Americans did something incredibly government has announced plans to The two key rabbanim in Lithuania to- Huckabee, to the Old City of Jerusalem, brave in November by electing someone build a new convention center over the day, Rabbi Krelin (Chief Rabbi of Lithua- to Amona, Maale Adumim, Hebron, and new and fresh. That is exactly what Isra- Old Jewish Cemetery of Vilna. Although nia) and Rabbi Krinsky (head of Chabad) Sderot, following quickly upon the de- el needs – a new face, with a new direc- the Vilna Gaon’s remains were removed were among the fi rst 250 signatories. It spicable UNSCR 2334 and Kerry’s speech tion and ideology. With Hashem’s help, from the Old Jewish Cemetery, the re- seems to me that this is a case of meis laying the blame for the failure of the those days are coming very soon. mains of hundreds, perhaps thousands mitzvah in more ways than one. “peace process” on Israeli settlements, With love of Israel, of Jews are still buried in the Old Jew- All one needs to do is to click on the was an affi rmation of Israel’s right to Shmuel Sackett ish Cemetery. These include the remains link below, fi ll out the electronic form, be a sovereign nation. Talk of “burying of some of the greatest rabbis, Jewish and electronically sign his or her name. the prospects of a PA state” at the same martyrs, and pious women through the Please forward to others, so that they time that Israel buries its young victims Dear Editor: centuries, including R. Moshe Rivkes too can participate in this mitzvah. It is of terror and the PA world celebrates, is I would just like to emphasize how (d. 1671-2), author of the Be’er HaGolah not a time to stand idly by. ignorant and meaningless. important it is to speak about a state on the Shulchan Aruch; R. Zelmele (i.e., change.org/p/hon-dalia-grybauskaite- The Israelis are understandably whose laws are consistent with Torah in R. Shlomo Zalman, d. 1788), brother of please-move-new-vilnius-convention-cen- counting the days and minutes until the Israel. R. Chayim of Volozhin and favorite dis- ter-project-away-from-the-old-jewish-cem- Trump inauguration. I think a practical way of doing this ciple of the Vilna Gaon; R. Shmuel b. R. etery Helen Freedman is to try to change the Supreme Court to Avigdor (d. 1793), last Chief Rabbi of Vil- With prayers for the success of our be a Jewish religious court to guide Eretz na; R. Avraham b. HaGra (d. 1809); the Ger cause, Dear Editor: Yisrael, that is not corrupt and is consis- Tzedek of Vilna (d. 1749), whose remains Shnayer Leiman Rabbi Yehuda Oppenheimer, a re- spected voice within the Queens Jewish community, wrote a sincerely critical letter to the editor in last week’s QJL. He began by writing, “I read Shmuel Sack- ett’s column in your last issue with a great deal of distress...” His main point was that this is not the time to write negative things about Prime Minister Netanyahu and he rejects my claim that it is Netanyahu – and only Netanyahu – to blame for the anti-Israel rhetoric by the Obama and Kerry administration. His words were very clear: “This is an awful and foolish thing to write at this time.” He further writes that my article “belies a total lack of appreciation of the class, dignity, resoluteness, and wisdom that Binyamin Netanyahu has shown in the face of dealing with the hostility of the Obama administration.” Without going into every word of Rabbi Oppenheimer’s letter and show- ing how totally weak and lame his ar- guments are, allow me to state just one thing: Bibi Netanyahu has brought all the pressure upon himself. His words contradict his actions and his weak lead- ership has demoralized the once proud and mighty IDF. Look at this week’s ter- ror attack in Jerusalem: Many of the sol- diers with M-16s ran away! And do you know why? Because they know that the Netanyahu government will not support

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 15 Weekly Tefilah Focus

Shemoneh Esrei 52 Boundless Chesed Ha’tov ki lo chalu rachamecha Like my friend, there are special individ- At the same time, Hashem has no lim- The Benefi cent One, for Your compas- uals who pine to be able to give limitlessly itations in His resources. He is the “Kol sions were never exhausted, and the Com- to others. They have the heart and desire Yachol.” He has unlimited resources, be- passionate One, for Your kindnesses never but they lack the ability. Others, have the cause He is the Creator and Sustainer of the ended – always have we put our hope in ability, but lack the heart and desire. entire Universe. Chesed represents actions. You. Beyond that, there are those who do Hashem, the ultimate M’racheim, provides ***** have tremendous rachamim and want to never-ending chesed. No limits. Last year, on January 13, 2016, US Power- help others in a big way. However, even To answer our initial questions, let’s note ball drawing created the largest jackpot in world history. It had an annuity value of $1,586,400,000. There are those who do have tremendous rachamim A close friend of mine, whose heart is and want to help others in a big way. much larger than his bank account, had remarked to me that he was buying a Pow- However, even the most giving human beings often have a limit erball ticket in that drawing. He then pro- ceeded to tell me some of the many won- derful chasadim and tz’dakah he would use the most giving human beings often have a that both chesed and tov result in actions kivinu lach.” We place all of our hope and the vast majority of the money for, includ- limit. Perhaps it is the third time the same of chesed. Hashem, the ultimate M’racheim reliance only on Hashem, even though ing my not having to think about money needy person comes to the door and per- and source of goodness (HaTov) provides we know we are undeserving of His nev- ever again. I strongly believe that he was haps it is the tenth. Perhaps it is years later never-ending chesed. No limits. We com- er-ending rachamim and chesed. Hashem is absolutely sincere and would have carried when he comes back with the same life sit- bine “HaTov” with “ki lo chalu rachamecha,” always there for those who trust and rely through on his desires, and that he will uation that we have been helping him with and we combine “v’Ha’m’racheim” with “ki upon Him. “V’ha’botei’ach baShem, chesed reap tremendous reward for his desires, these past several years. Eventually, one’s lo samu chasadecha” to highlight that both y’sov’venu” (T’hilim 32:10). since it is not his fault that he cannot fulfi ll rachamim diminishes and is not as strong Hashem’s rachamim and His actions of (Based on Sifsei Chaim – Midos/Avodas them. It seems for now, though, that Hash- as the fi rst time hearing the tragic life story chesed are without limits. Hashem 1, Vaad 17 of “Bitachon”) em’s plan was for him to continue to dream of this individual. (The above is based on HaRav Yitzchak May we fulfi ll to the best of our abilities and have his strong sh’ifah (drive) to give Hashem has no limits and no weaken- Blazer, quoted in the sefer Tal’lei Oros, and as human beings the mitzvah of “v’halachta billions and for him to continue working. ing of His rachamim. He is “HaTov” – pure HaRav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, quoted bi’drachav” and emulate the never-ending, The language in Modim, from “HaTov” goodness – “ki lo chalu rachamecha.” His in the sefer Nafshi Cholas Ahavasecha.) never-weakening rachamim and chesed of until the end of the paragraph seems rachamim is never-ending and never weak- In what merit do we receive this ra- Hashem. strange. What is the distinction between ens. His rachamim is at the very same level, chamim and chesed? By defi nition, ra- To access Audio, Video, and Archives of “rachamecha” and “chasadecha,” and why years after a tzarah began, as it was at the chamim and chesed are even when not previous Tefi lah segments, please visit www. are rachamim and chesed mixed? Why not outset. Additionally, His rachamim fl ows deserved. Our only merit is “ki mei’olam WeeklyTefi lahFocus.com. say “V’ha’m’racheim ki lo chalu rachamecha” to all of His creations, as we say in Ashrei: and “HaTov ki lo samu chasadecha?” “v’rachamav al kol maasav” – no limits. You can direct any questions or comments to Eliezer Szrolovits at 917-551-0150.

16 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 17 Snippets Of Strange

ing over 5,400 pounds and containing 864 Surfing Dog Raised Half gallons of ice cream, 36 gallons of choco- raising nearly $7,000 on New Year’s Eve. late syrup, 56 gallons of strawberries, 172 A Million Dollars For Charity “Reaching this major milestone demon- cans of whipped cream, and 7,200 Michi- strates how much Ricochet’s worldwide gan-grown cherries. community supports her efforts,” her han- Westendorp said the world record has dlers said. “She sincerely thanks her indi- already started to boost business, but Moo- vidual donors, social media followers, cor- ville will not attempt to reclaim the record porate sponsors and members of the media if it is taken by another town. for their continued support.” Ricochet became the fi rst dog commit- ted to adaptive surfi ng after jumping on 105-Year-Old Cyclist a surfboard with a quadriplegic surfer in 2009. Breaks Record By Biking Since then she has participated in sever- al fundraising efforts as well as working on 14 Miles In An Hour community outreach programs for PTSD and other forms of therapy. Michigan Town Scoops Ice Cream Record With 3,656-Foot-Long Sundae Michigan city’s 3,656-foot-long ice French cyclist continued to chase cream sundae broke a Guinness “We saw Ludington’s and said there was records at the age of 105 by biking AWorld Record just after the previous no way we could pull this off,” Moo-ville A14 miles around a track in an hour. record-holder, also a Michigan town, was Creamery manager Tina Westendorp, who Robert Marchand completed 92 laps certifi ed. was part of a delegation that traveled to within an hour in front of hundreds of fans surfi ng dog has raised half a million The Moo-ville Creamery in Nashville Ludington to witness their attempt. at a velodrome in France, but said he could dollars for various charities since constructed a 3,656-foot-long sundae that She said the world record attempt was have extended his record breaking perfor- Ashe started participating in fund- was certifi ed as a Guinness World Record not planned merely to steal thunder from mance even more, according to The Guard- raising events for six years. in December, just over a month after the Ludington. ian. Ricochet, known as the only SURFice previous record-holder, the House of Fla- “A group of us wanted to refurbish the “I did not see the sign warning me I had dog, reached the $500,000 fundraising vors in Ludington, Mich., was certifi ed with town and get Nashville on the map,” Wes- 10 minutes left,” he said. “Otherwise I would milestone, which benefi tted more than a 2,970-foot-long dessert. tendorp said. “We thought of doing the have gone faster, I would have posted a bet- 250 different causes dedicated to kids with The Ludington sundae was constructed longest ice cream sundae because Nashville ter time. I’m now waiting for a rival.” special needs, people with disabilities, vet- in June, while the Nashville dessert was put is kind of known for its ice cream.” erans with PTSD, and animals in need, after together in September. The Nashville sundae ended up weigh- CONTINUED ON P. 19

18 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Snippets Of Strange

Athletic Dog And Owner Set Jump Roping World Record

in May 2016, but decided to set the bar even higher after several months of practice. Purin holds two other athletic records CONTINUED FROM P. 18 including most balls caught by a dog with its paws in one minute and fastest 10 me- Marchand has set multiple cycling re- ters traveled on a ball by a dog. cords in the over-100s category, including traveling 16 miles in an hour in 2012, and has started a new over-105s category to ac- Not The Smartest Cookie: commodate his new achievement. “Setting goals for himself is part of his Man Trying To Break Into personality,” his coach said. “If he tells me he wants to improve his record, I’ll be Spy Store Caught On Camera game. Robert is a great example for all of man who tried - and failed - to break that they are being recorded. He said the us.” into a Florida store apparently man seems to eventually notice the camera. Marchand became a vegetarian a month Amissed the fact that the shop spe- “And at one point, it looks like he can before the record-breaking attempt and cializing in hidden cameras had some in tell he’s on camera, but he doesn’t stop,” he doctors encouraged him to take up meat plain sight. said. “Then he comes back, basically kicks again before attempting the record. Security cameras at Spy Spot Investiga- the door again, tries to push it with his “He is very small but his heart is very tions Spy Store in Deerfi eld Beach were re- hands and then walks away.” big,” his doctor said. “His oxygen consump- cording about 4 a.m. last Wednesday when “This is probably the last place you tion is the same as a man of half his age Japanese dog with several sports a bearded man wearing a hood and base- would want to try to burglarize,” the man- who doesn’t do any sports.” achievements set a new world re- ball cap attempted to break through the ager said. “We got a whole bunch of surveil- Marchand begins each day with 10 min- Acord for most jump rope skips in a glass of the store’s front door with a rock. lance cameras. We’ve got hidden cameras, utes of calisthenics and indoor cycling and minute with his owner. “And then all he did was he went over to we also do GPS tracking devices, audio re- cycles outdoors with friends four times a Purin, the 11-year-old beagle, and her the door, he threw it right against it,” the cording devices.” week. owner Makoto Kumagai completed 58 suc- store’s manager said. “I don’t know why you would try to rob “I’m not here to break any record. I’m do- cessful jumps together claiming the Guin- The manager said the thief apparently a spy store,” he said. “The guy’s probably ing it to prove that at 105 years old you can ness World Record for most skips by a dog missed the security camera in plain sight not the smartest criminal.” still ride a bike,” he said before the record and a person in one minute – single rope. as well as warning signs on the shop’s door The manager released the security foot- attempt. The pair previously set the record at 51 and windows informing potential burglars age in the hopes of identifying the suspect.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 19 20 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Snippets Of Strange World’s Fastest Mobile Bed Surgical Forceps Removed

Travels Nearly was set in 2009 by a driver who also holds From Vietnamese Man the record for the Fastest toilet (42.25 mph), 84 Miles Per Hour Fastest offi ce (87 mph) and Fastest garden After 18 Years shed (58.41 mph). turnout” had Marbut not intervened. Never Too Old To Be A Hero: Home Sells For $1 Under Ohio’s 85-Year-Old Texas Man Helps New Public Auction Law

Pull 2 Women From Burning Car octors in Vietnam have removed surgical forceps from a man who Dunknowingly carried them inside his body for 18 years. Ma Van Nhat, 54, said the forceps had probably been left in his abdomen in 1998 when he had emergency surgery after a traffi c accident. Nhat had felt only the occasional pain and a clinic had given him medicine for a vacant 92-year-old bungalow in suspected stomach ulcer. An X-ray taken nline accommodation booking web- uthorities credit an 85-year-old Akron sold at a sheriff’s sale last late last year showed the forceps were to site Hotels.com partnered with a Texas man who walks with the aid Amonth for just $1, a price made pos- blame. OBritish racecar driver to create the Aof a cane for helping save the lives sible by a revision of Ohio law governing The six-inch-long instrument had bro- world’s fastest mobile bed. of two women whose speeding car fl ipped public auctions last year. ken apart and become lodged in Nhat’s The driver drove the motorized mattress over onto his front yard and burst into The home is the fi rst to sell so cheaply stomach. They were removed in an opera- 83.8 miles per hour on a track in the United fl ames. since the passing of House Bill 390 last tion. Arab Emirates to claim the Guinness World Texas Department of Public Safety of- summer. The director of the hospital said that of- Record. fi cials say the 22-year-old driver likely was Under the new law, vacant homes can fi cials were trying to fi nd out who might “I was made-up to take the world’s fast- driving too fast as she rounded a bend early now be sold for less than two-thirds of their have left the forceps in Nhat. est bed record with Hotels.com, it was an last Sunday and lost control of her car. appraised value at public auctions across “Even if they are already retired we will unforgettable experience and I hope it’ll Lindell Marbut witnessed the wreck, Ohio. The “fast-track foreclosure bill” also still inform them,” she said. “This is a les- stand the test of time – it’ll take some beat- banged on the windshield with his cane decreases the time abandoned properties son to all doctors.” ing!” he said. and helped to pull the driver from the car as are wrapped up in foreclosure suits to as Medical errors are not uncommon in Vi- Hotels.com constructed the bed to cel- his caretaker called 911. The caretaker then little as six months, before they can attract etnam. Over the past year there have been ebrate the launch of its new Middle East helped him drag the passenger to safety. a criminal element or deteriorate further. two cases of doctors operating on wrong portal. A fi refi ghter who arrived at the scene Records show that no one challenged limbs, and three cases of men being diag- The previous record of 69 miles per hour said that “it wouldn’t have been a good Citizens Bank’s winning $1 bid. nosed as pregnant.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 21 22 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Financially Forward Gerald Harris BDS Struggles With Diminishing Returns

eputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Ho- Business Is Business tovely shared very good news with While there’s havoc in the political Da group of rabbis and other leaders world, business ventures are continuing as from the Diaspora when she spoke with though nothing has happened, at least so them at a gathering in Yerushalayim two far. SuperMeat weeks ago. The BDS (boycott, divestment, Here’s one example: Although China sanctions) movement has “failed misera- has voted in favor of the U.N. resolution, *A select group of companies in the U.S. are trying to perfect a way to “grow” meat in bly” and is now “on the defensive,” she told for years it has been steadily increasing the a lab. Israeli start-up SuperMeat is working on a similar idea: It wants to bring cultured them. More important, “foreign investment amount of business it is doing with Israel. chicken meat fi rst to restaurants and then to home kitchens. As the name implies, cul- in Israel has doubled since (BDS) began op- Last year this number rose to $11.4 billion, tured chicken does not come from slaughtered fowl – it is grown from stem cells. Until erations.” making China Israel’s largest trading part- now, this was made in a test tube under strictly controlled laboratory conditions, but After the outrageous vote in the U.N. ner. Chinese investment in Israel is approx- SuperMeat has taken a different approach: It is developing a high-tech oven that would make non-GMO chicken meat from a serum, powder, or capsule of stem cells. It’s incredible, but the more Israel is boycotted, condemned, the more Hashem helps it develop breakthrough products *Core Scientifi c Creations has created a WoundClot gauze that forms a gel mem- that are the envy of the world WoundClot brane with the blood’s own clotting factors that can stop a person from hemorrhaging condemning Israeli settlements in the imately $6 billion, while Israel’s investment blood within minutes. The gauze absorbs West Bank and East Jerusalem, this news in China is about $1 billion. about 2,500 percent of its own weight in serves as a real morale booster. According to the Chinese media group fl uids. The WoundClot gauze, which natu- The question why the BDS movement Caixin, China is especially interested in rally dissolves within 24 hours, is already is failing begs to be asked, and there are Israel’s innovations in technology and its being used in some European hospitals several likely answers. One is because of new products in cyber security, agriculture, as well as by fi rst responders in both the the tremendous efforts made by leaders in artifi cial intelligence, and the Internet of U.S. and Israel. Until now, compression has Israel and the U.S. (and other countries) to things, which allows everyday items to been used to stop hemorrhaging, but this counteract it. Another is because so many send and receive data. approach is not always effective and some- people, both Jews and gentiles, genuinely times is actually counterproductive; for ex- love Israel and want to do what they can to Another Day, Another Breakthrough ample, in the case of hemorrhages caused support and strengthen her. It’s incredible, but the more Israel is by stabbings and other traumatic injuries. There is also another explanation, and boycotted, condemned, and ostracized, this one is more practical than philosoph- the more Hashem helps it develop unique ical: a very high percentage of the new and breakthrough products that are the time-saving, money-saving, work-saving, envy of the world. And that’s why business *SoftWheel developed the and life-saving products that are being de- with Israel will continue to increase in the fi rst-ever in-wheel suspension veloped are coming out of Israel. To boy- coming years, regardless of what the U.N. for wheelchairs. The secret of SoftWheel cott these means not only giving up the thinks. this product is that although benefi ts they provide, but also leads to po- The following are just a small sampling the wheel stays rigid, a hub tentially lost profi ts and sales for business- of the amazing new Israeli products now in the center of the wheel can es, and falling behind the competition. coming to the market. move. The hub moves so effi - ciently that it removes most of the impact that comes from riding over bumpy pavement, Nano Dimension gravel roads, and going up and down curbs. Users have more freedom to go where they want and don’t get soreness in their backs. By compari- son, conventional wheelchairs transfer that energy to the us- er’s body. SoftWheel technology is now also available in bicycles, where it enables cyclists to ride comfortably on broken roads, up and down curbs, and even down stairs. And CEO Daniel Barel announced at the recent PC 2016 Innovation Showcase that it will soon be *Not long ago, the idea that a new human organ could be created through 3D print- available for automobiles. “This means a brand-new era in cars,” Barel told the audi- ing would be found only in the back pages of comic books. Today, it is being studied by ence at the showcase. “No more fl ats, a 20 percent improvement in energy effi ciency, some of the most brilliant scientifi c minds in the world. better maneuverability, increased safety, a lighter vehicle – better in every way.” Israeli 3D printer manufacturer Nano Dimension is collaborating with Israeli bio- tech Accellta to develop a way to mix human stem cells into 3D inkjet printer ink. Jane S. had the following comment re- The BDS movement has deluded itself The objective is that when the ink is emitted from the 1,000 tiny nozzles of the Nano garding Israel’s incredible new technol- into thinking that it has been effective, but Dimension printer, the mixture will be able to form a new human organ. Although very ogies: “Such a tiny country and so many the truth will ultimately prevail. promising, this technology is still in its infancy. However, that Israel is at the forefront amazing miracles the world gets to use and of this breakthrough science is just as amazing as the technology itself. enjoy because of them...can you even imag- Sources: israelnationalnews.com; ine [what we’d see] if the rest of the world israel21c.com; YouTube.com, Gerald Harris is a fi nancial and feature writer. Gerald can be reached at geraldhrs@ was as productive ... or even just not bent PC2016Innovationshowcase: SoftWheel; yahoo.com on Israel’s destruction?” wikipedia.com.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 23 24 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Addressing Cremation – What Is Our Responsibility?

By Rabbi Elchanan Zohn rash in Bereishis (Bereishis Rabah 67:4). The Midrash explains that the Jewish nation he phones ring all the time. “Hi, my had to experience the “great and bitter cry” name is Yitzchok Green. I live in Eretz described in Megillas Esther as reparation TYisrael. My wife’s grandfather just for the “great cry” that Yaakov caused Eisav passed away in Florida. He left a will to be by taking the brachos. cremated.” “Hi, my rosh yeshivah suggested One may wonder, what did Yaakov do I call you. I am a baal t’shuvah learning in wrong? The brachos were his by right – [pick your yeshivah] and my father is now he had bought that right from Eisav years in hospice. His second wife is not Jewish before. However, Reb Dovid pointed out, and is leaning toward cremation when his based on the words of the Midrash, there time comes. My siblings don’t care much was a slight criticism of Yaakov for not ful- and want to keep the peace.” “Hello, I live ly appreciating and empathizing with the in Lakewood. A fellow I have worked with tzaar, the pain, of his evil brother Eisav. for years, who helped build many mosdos in Even a rasha like Eisav deserves our em- Lakewood, just died. I offered to go to the pathy. Do our less-knowledgeable brethren levayah but his wife informed me there will deserve any less? The reality is that every be no levayah, only a memorial service; he Rabbi Elchonon Zohn cremation is a tragedy, and many could is being cremated.” have been prevented. Even the most To- We are, baruch Hashem, successful at rah-observant among us have friends or rel- times in getting things changed to k’vurah The Traditional End-of-life Awareness Movement atives considering cremation. k’Halachah, but more often we are not. encourages us to think about our less-observant fellow Jews It’s not an easy conversation to embark The common denominator of these cases and how we can alleviate that tzaar upon, but it can be broached in the broad- is that they are all very “late in the game.” er context of a discussion about end-of-life When we have time to reach out, not in a preparedness, the afterlife, the Jewish view “crisis” atmosphere, we are frequently suc- scope of the punishment Lot’s wife re- understand their infi nite loss. The suffering of heaven, the soul, etc. Commenting on cessful. When a person is already seriously ceived. He states that foolish people (kalei the soul feels when it sees its earthly body the news of the death of a shared relative ill, or has already passed, intervention is ha’da’as) ask that Lot’s wife seems almost to going up in smoke is eternal. Eternal. Are or acquaintance or the cremation of a well- seldom effective – and even when it is, the have received a reward! Her death was quick we absolved from feeling their everlasting known personality, such as Joan Rivers, can deceased is often buried days or even weeks and painless, no interment, no worms – and sorrow and inconceivable pain? open the discussion. after the passing. what’s more, salt helps others! [In fact, she As for the canard that the unaffi liated There is much to learn about this issue The response from many in the ob- is now a tourist attraction.] It would appear have chosen their fate, and we need not and how to address it. One of our goals with servant Jewish community is often the that Lot’s wife did well with the death sen- be concerned with their choice – we must TEAM Shabbos, this Parshas Vayechi, is to same: “This doesn’t apply to me.” “I don’t tence allotted to her. However, those who only consider the kindness we could gen- “open the discussion.” The Traditional End- know these issues well enough to get in- believe in Hashem recognize the benefi t of erate and the unbelievably meaningful of-life Awareness Movement encourages volved.” Or, “These people have no interest burial. The discomforts of death and buri- consequence of our intervention against us to think about our less-observant fellow in Yiddishkeit or are anti-frum, they have al are a kaparah and cleanse the neshamah the unending pain and anguish that our Jews and how we can alleviate that tzaar. made terrible choices; why should I spend of its sins. Her punishment wasn’t simply less halachically-aware brethren experience Incidentally, let’s not overlook the tzaar of any valuable time or resources to get in- death, a loss of this world, but an inability – there would be no doubt regarding the their extended families, the tzaar of their volved?” to receive atonement, and thus the loss of course of action demanded of us. ancestral families, and the tzaar of their Fa- Generally, frum people are wholly un- the next world as well. My rebbe’s father, HaRav Dovid Leibow- ther in heaven. I fi rmly believe we are all aware of the rate of cremation within the We cannot imagine the pain of the ne- itz, zt”l, pointedly described the scope of responsible – it is, after all, the mes mitzvah broader Jewish community. As someone shamah of those being cremated who now our responsibility to others based on a Mid- of our time. who has expended a great deal of time and effort on this subject I’d like to address the many misconceptions one by one. The rate of cremation within the broad- er Jewish community is not an easy fi gure to verify. There are no organizations that collect data specifi c to those who identify as Jewish. However, CANA (Cremation As- sociation of North America) estimated that 48.6 percent of all deaths in the USA in 2015 resulted in cremation. Recently, newspa- pers reported that we have passed the 50 percent mark nationally. Think about that for a moment – one out of every two people who died had their bodies burned and their bones ground into fi ne powder. My personal estimate, based on my ex- perience and conversations with funeral homes across the country, is a national cremation rate of about 40 percent within the Jewish community. Liberal Jews are far more likely to choose cremation for what they believe to be ecological reasons, and even Jews who identify as “traditional” may choose cremation for monetary reasons. Above and beyond the mitzvah that re- quires k’vurah, the tragedy of cremation is two-fold – for the living and the deceased. There is little closure in unwrapping an urn compared to attending a levayah, low- ering an aron, and fi lling the grave. The living have no place to visit, to remember and refl ect, or to connect with the niftar. Sprinkling ashes is disrespectful and the fa- miliarity of an urn on the mantelpiece gives way to contempt – there is no respect in the presence of ashes, and eventually those urns are thrown out when the family grows old or moves away. For the niftar, however, the pain cannot be described in mortal terms. Rav Zalman Sorotzkin, zt”l, in his monumental work Oznaim L’Torah, explains the extent and

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 25 This Week In History Yakov Merkin 1923: President Harding orders US troops occupying Germany to return home January 8 - 14

t is said that those who do not know their history are condemned to repeat it, and as I may have mentioned in the past, it is always fun to try to fi nd links between histori- Ical events (so long as one doesn’t go full conspiracist). In writing this column, I have a different opportunity, that of being able to fi nd thematic links between the events I discuss, whether they be a full week’s worth or simply two or more in a row that have at least something tying them together. This week, I have some of that. 1624: Galileo Dies in Italy We begin this week on January 8, 1624. On this date, Galileo Galilei, the Italian as- tronomer many now refer to as the “father of modern astronomy,” died in Italy at the age of 77. Also known as the “father of mod- ern physics,” and the “father of science,” Galileo made several revolutionary discov- eries during his lifetime. He was among the fi rst (if not the fi rst) to seriously use a telescope to observe the skies, and he per- sonally discovered the moons of Jupiter, the rings of Saturn, sunspots, and the phenomenon of solar rotation. He famously wound Next up, we jump to January 10, 1923. On that date, up in trouble with the Catho- four years after the conclusion of World War I, Presi- lic Church’s legal body, the In- dent Warren G. Harding ordered the US troops that had quisition, when he published been occupying Germany to return home. These were his confi rmation that the all but the last American troops left in Europe after Earth rotated around the Sun, America’s entry into World War I in 1917, in which they as per the Copernican system. helped break the long and bloody stalemate. The country’s last combat divisions had left He was charged with heresy, France in 1919, leaving only the 16,000 strong occupation force stationed in Germany, as his fi ndings did not align based in the town of Coblenz, as part of the post-war Allied presence on the Rhine. The with Church doctrine, and found guilty in order for them to return home four years later followed a stated desire of Harding, who 1633, sentenced to life imprisonment. How- had replaced wartime President Woodrow Wilson in 1921, to return to normalcy. However, ever, on account of his age and poor health, that was easier for some countries than others, as Germans continued to resent the harsh he was permitted to serve his sentence under house arrest. Despite their efforts to silence peace terms and feel bitter about their defeat – resentment that included anger at the him and suppress his ideas and discoveries, however, Galileo remains a household name Americans – continued to fester. to this day, and most people at least have some idea of who he was and why he was so signifi cant. 1928: Joseph Stalin deports Leon Trotsky Shifting to a story of a falling out as op- 1776: Thomas Paine publishes Common Sense posed to a forced interaction, we next go to We next come to January 9, 1776, the date January 11, 1928. On this date, Soviet leader that American writer Thomas Paine famous- Joseph Stalin deported Leon Trotsky, who ly published his revolutionary pamphlet, had been a fellow leader of the Bolshevik Common Sense. In this pamphlet (which has Revolution and one of the architects of the become a seldom-used medium today), he Soviet state, to remote Alma-Ata in Soviet put forth his arguments in favor of Amer- Central Asia. Trotsky would live there in ex- ican independence. Common Sense, which ile before being banished from the USSR en- Paine originally published anonymously tirely a year later. Trotsky (who adopted the (for obvious reasons) is considered one of name when he traveled to England with a the most infl uential pamphlets in American forged passport in 1902) became enamored history, and is credited with uniting com- with Marxism as a teenager, and was both mon citizens and political leaders behind jailed and sent to Siberia for his revolution- ary actions. While in London, he worked along with Vladimir Lenin, but ultimate- ly preferred a more democratic version of socialism, promoted by the Menshevik factions. Over the following years, he was again exiled to Siberia after the failed 1905 revolution in Russia, and lived in Switzerland, Paris, Spain, and New York City, as he was expelled from numerous countries for his radicalism, and then returned to Russia at the start of the 1917 revolution. He played a leading role in the revolution, became Lenin’s secretary of foreign affairs, and negotiated the Russian exit from World War I, after which he became the war commissioner and set up the Red Army, which defeated the anti-communist opposition in the Russian Civil War. By the early 1920s, he seemed Lenin’s heir apparent, but lost the struggle for succession in 1922. the idea of independence from Great Brit- When Stalin took power, the two quickly were at odds, leading to Trotsky’s ultimate ex- ain, and in changing what could have sim- pulsion. Trotsky was then taken in by Turkey, and lived on the island of Prinkipo, where ply been a colonial squabble into the full- he worked on his autobiography and a history of the Russian Revolution. After four years fl edged American Revolution. What Common Sense truly did was change the nature of the there, he lived for a time in France and Norway, and then was granted asylum in Mexico confl ict. At the time, most colonists considered themselves Britons (albeit with grievances in 1936, where he settled with his family. He was later found guilty of treason in absentia against the crown), but Paine made the case that: “Europe, and not England, is the parent during Stalin’s purges, and he became a target. He survived a machine-gun attack on his country of America. This new world hath been the asylum for the persecuted lovers of home, but in 1940 was fatally wounded by a Spanish Communist, Ramon Mercader, with civil and religious liberty from every part of Europe. Hither they have fl ed, not from the an ice axe, and died of his wounds the following day. tender embraces of the mother, but from the cruelty of the monster; and it is so far true of England, that the same tyranny which drove the fi rst emigrants from home, pursues their descendants still.” To give a sense of how widely it was read, it sold approximately 1943: Soviet forces breach the German siege of Leningrad 500,000 copies. Paine served in the US Army and for the Committee of Foreign Affairs While on the subject of Soviet Russia, it seems fi tting to next hop to January 12, 1943, before returning to Europe, where he and his revolutionary opinions ran afoul of both the the date on which Soviet forces breached the German siege of Leningrad, which had been British and the French, the latter of which arrested him for a time. In 1802, he returned to in progress for a year and a half. This breach allowed crucial supplies into the besieged city. the United States, and died in New York in 1809. Leningrad, the second largest city in the USSR, had been a primary target of the Germans

26 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 This Week In History

to them. However, a revolt in Kabul soon followed, and the British force had to withdraw. This began on January 6, but was delayed by bad weather, and they were then attacked by massive numbers of Afghans led by Dost Mohammad’s son. Much of the British force was killed outright in the attack, and Afghan soldiers later killed those who had initially survived; a total of 4,500 soldiers, 12,000 camp followers. Only the one doctor, Dr. William Bryden, lived to tell the tale. The British, of course, retaliated, and sent a large invasion force to Kabul the following year, and burned down a portion of the city. The war ended that year, and Dost Mohammad, who had been restored to power, signed an Alliance with the British in 1857. However, a second Anglo-Afghan war broke out in 1878, which ended in 1880 with Britain winning control of Afghanistan’s foreign affairs. 1942: President FDR requires aliens from countries that the US is at war with to register with the Department of Justice We conclude this week one hundred years later, on January 14, 1942. On this date, Democratic President Franklin Dela- no Roosevelt issued Presidential Proclama- when they invaded in 1941, and surrounded tion No. 2537, which required aliens from the city barely two months after the initial countries that the United States was then invasion. When an offensive intended to at war with (Italy, Germany, and Japan) to occupy the city failed, the Germans decid- register with the United States Department ed to besiege the city, wait out the Soviets, of Justice. They would then be issued Cer- then burn the city, the former capital of Old tifi cate of Identifi cation for Aliens of Ene- Russia, to the ground and give it to their my Nationality. This act, which followed up Finnish allies, who were advancing from the Alien Registration Act of 1940, is what the north (however, Finland stopped before in essence set the stage for the large-scale Leningrad, content with regaining territory internment of Japanese Americans one lost to the USSR back in 1939). At the start month later. In the aftermath of the Pearl of the siege, Leningrad’s population began Harbor attack, Americans were very much building fortifi cations, managing to defend on edge, as the entire West Coast seemed the city, though they were cut off from the vulnerable to attack. Additionally, military outside. In 1942, 650,000 residents died analysts expressed concerns that members from starvation, disease, exposure, and in- of the western states’ large Japanese Amer- juries sustained in regular German artillery ican populations posed a threat to west barrages. Despite the siege, however, some coast agricultural and defense industries. relief was had from barges and sleds at the While reports indicated that over 90 per- right seasons, and approximately a million cent of Japanese Americans were certainly sick, elderly, and young people from the city loyal citizens, in order to ease worries, Roo- were secretly evacuated, leaving the rest to sevelt began to prepare the way for possible ration what supplies remained and to try internment. Presidential Proclamation No. to grow more food. The siege was eventu- 2537, issued for security reasons, permitted ally broken by a Soviet offensive in January 1944, after 872 days. 1842: The lone survivor of an Anglo-Indian force that had been massacred as it retreated from Kabul reaches safety and tells what happened

the arrest, detention, and internment of “enemy aliens” who violated restricted areas, such as ports, water treatment plants, and even areas prone to brush fi res, for the duration of the war. A month later, President Roosevelt signed the War Department’s Executive Order 9066, which authorized the physical relocation of all Japanese Americans into in- ternment camps, a chapter of American history that, in the eyes of many, remains a black mark to this day. ======That’s all for this week; I hope you found these events, and the thematic links between some of them fascinating, however vague. Beyond that, I hope that you will join me once For another war story, we next come to January 13, 1842. On this date, a British army again next week...in history. doctor, the lone survivor of a 16,000-strong Anglo-Indian force that had been massacred as it retreated from Kabul, Afghanistan, reached safety and told of what had happened. Yakov Merkin was a lifelong resident of Forest Hills, prior to making aliyah in August 2016. He At that time, Britain, aiming to further protect its holdings in India, sought to assert its holds a Bachelor’s Degree with Honors in History from Queens College, as well as a Master’s De- authority in neighboring Afghanistan. Specifi cally, they wanted to replace Amir Dost Mo- gree in History, also from Queens College. He is a writer of science fi ction, fantasy, and historical hammad Khan with a former amir who was sympathetic to the British. Their attempted fantasy novels, and discusses writing and history, among other things, on Twitter @yakovmerkin. interference sparked the First Anglo-Afghan War in 1839. Initially, the British expedition- If you would be interested in supporting the publication of his fi rst book, visit his GoFundMe cam- ary force was successful: They captured Kabul in 1840, and Dost Mohammad surrendered paign at gofundme.com/br-help-me-publish-my-fi rst-novel.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 27 HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, Shlita to Grace Dirshu Convention Numerous Other Gedolim to Attend and Address Lomdei Dirshu

HaRav Reuven Feinstein, HaRav Aharon Feldman, Rav Dovid Hofstedter at the Dirshu 2015 Convention Partial view of the participants at a past Dirshu Shabbos Convention (B)

By Chaim Gold comprising the worldwide Mishpachas Govoha, Lakewood, and HaGaon HaRav tion where after the seudah on Shabbos Dirshu. Dovid Olewski, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas afternoon, the ‘taanug’ of sleeping on aGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, The climax of the Shabbos will be Ger. Shabbos is replaced by the even greater shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of the Pon- motzoei Shabbos’s keynote session pleasure of learning and chazering anoth- Hevezh Yeshiva, will be coming where a siyum on Masechta Bava Met- Hailing a Joint Effort er blatt Gemara and another seif in Shul- especially from Eretz Yisroel to attend zia will be made. At the siyum, addresses There will also be a comprehensive chan Aruch?!” the Dirshu Convention where he will will be given by HaGaon HaRav Berel women’s program catered especially to Rav Steinmetz will be introduced deliver a shiur klali after davening on Povarsky, shlita, Dayan Yonasan Abra- the wives of the lomdei Dirshu. Indeed, by another distinguished international Shabbos morning and then, on motzoei ham, shlita, a member of the London every person present at the convention is guest, HaGaon Dayan Binyomin Eckstein, Shabbos, will make the Hadran and give Beis Din and Rav of the Toras Chaim a person who has shown deep dedication shlita, Dayan in the London kehillah and a keynote address at the melave malka Shul in Hendon, North West London, to limud haTorah. The men show that ded- the yoshev rosh of Dirshu in Europe. siyum on Masechta Bava Metziah. The HaGaon HaRav Binyomin Eisenberger, ication by learning, chazering every day, Inasmuch as the Convention is a sold Convention, to be held this coming shlita, Rav of Kehal Heichal Hatefi llah day in and day out, and taking monthly out event and in order to ensure the Shabbos Parshas Shemos, 22-24 Teves/ in Boro Park, and Rav Dovid Hofstedter, tests over a protracted amount of time. proper kavod for davening and learning, January 20-22, at the Crowne Plaza Ho- Nasi Dirshu. Similarly, every Dirshu wife has displayed Dirshu plans to erect a massive tent on tel in Stamford, Connecticut, is entitled Even though the Hotel is completely mesiras nefesh for her husband’s learning the premises. The tent will also serve to Shabbos Chizuk L’lomedei Torah. In sold out for Shabbos, the Motzoei Shab- and spiritual ascent by enabling him to accommodate the burgeoning crowds truth, its name truly encapsulates and bos Siyum and Keynote Session Melave devote tremendous amounts of time to so that they can hear the shiurim of Rav defi nes what the Shabbos is all about. Malka will be open to the general pub- learning the daily material and then re- Povarsky, Rav Steinmentz and numerous The Shabbos is to pay tribute and give lic. Bus transportation will be provided peatedly reviewing so that he will know other Gedolim in a dignifi ed manner as chizuk to the myriad lomdei Torah but RSVP is required by calling 1-888-5 the material suffi ciently to earn an exem- befi tting a maamad of kavod haTorah. and their wives who, day in, day out, Dirshu, ext. 153 or [email protected]. plary mark on the test. This often does week after week, month after month, Throughout the Shabbos, other gedo- not come easily. It frequently means sac- “The Shabbos throughout the year, Shabbosim, Yomim lim will give addresses, among them, rifi cing the help of a husband in the most When Totty and Mommy Went Tovim, easy times, hard times… are dedi- HaGaon HaRav Reuven Feinstein, shl- hectic of times, such as the morning rush to Learn How to Learn More Torah!” cated to learning Torah and taking regu- ita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva of Staten to school or the evening bedtime crunch. After the last Dirshu convention, lar tests to ensure retention. Island, HaGaon HaRav Aharon Feldman, That is why Dirshu siyumim and Shabbos Dirshu received numerous letters from shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Ner Yisrael, Bal- conventions always have an important lomdei Torah and their wives, expressing Climax Will Be timore, HaGaon HaRav Yechiel Michel place for Dirshu wives, true partners in their feelings about how limud haTorah Keynote Motzoei Shabbos Steinmetz, shlita, Skverer Dayan of Boro the Torah success of their husbands. with a plan has transformed their lives. Melave Malka Siyum Park, HaGaon HaRav Yitzchok Sorotz- One woman wrote, “…I would like to Numerous Gedolei Yisrael will grace kin, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Mesivta of “Earning Olam Habaah share what Dirshu and the Shabbos mean the convention and deliver addresses Lakewood, HaGaon HaRav Dovid Schus- with Phenomenal Olam Hazeh!” to us. There is no way we can ever express paying tribute to the lomdei Torah tal, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Beth Medrash One of the highlights of previous the depth of our gratitude. While my hus- conventions has been the unique shai- band, a kollel yungerman, always admired los and teshuvos session held on Friday his father who is a great masmid, he night after the seudah with the Skverer didn’t think he was capable of doing the Dayan, Rav Yechiel Michel Steinmetz, shl- same. At the fi rst Dirshu Shabbos when ita. Questions that span literally the en- my husband saw yungeleit just like him tire gamut of halacha are moderated and becoming Shas Yidden and being tested posed by Rav Eliezer Ralbag, shlita, to the on the entire Shas, he came home deter- dayan who, with his encyclopedic knowl- mined to do the same! Since that Shabbos edge and good cheer, answers them all every moment in our life has become a comprehensively, and often with a good treasure, life is a rush of excitement! dose of added humor as well. “Another amud, another Daf… Baruch At the previous Dirshu Shabbos Chi- Hashem, my husband makes a siyum zuk L’lomdei Torah, it was Rav Steinmetz so often that my two-year old confuses who encapsulated what he saw as the the word siyum and Shabbos seudah. A uniqueness of the Dirshu convention seudah with a siyum is such a thrill as saying, “A unique koach of Dirshu is that the children march into the dining room it not only gives a person Olam Habaah, with a special dish while singing a nig- it also gives a person phenomenal Olam gun in honor of the siyum…. Although I Hazeh! Where else can you have a con- never imagined I would leave my chil- vention where after a moving oneg Shab- dren behind for a Shabbos, this Shab- bos, followed by going to sleep at 1:00 bos is different. My children treasure a.m., the next morning at 5:00 a.m., one the memory of “The Shabbos that Totty hears a resounding kol Torah in the beis and Mommy went to learn how to learn medrash? Where do you have a conven- more Torah!”

28 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 As I See It Cynthia Zalisky Out With The Old, In With The New have never been too enthralled with kosher food pantry that distributes parcels perates. had been hard for him to acculturate in New Year’s “yom tov” celebrations. I to 1,500 needy families monthly, and the A very elderly immigrant woman close American society and he was very lone- Ihave always found them to be frivo- weekly delivery of meals-on-wheels to 130 to 100 years old who could barely speak ly. We therefore provided him with sup- lous and misguided. The idea of getting frail and homebound elderly. English, but since my staff is multi-lin- portive counseling to increase his coping totally drunk on New Year’s totally escapes Since its inception in 1968, tens of thou- gual she was able to communicate with skills and improve socialization as his le- me. What a difference our concept of New sands of Jewish residents have turned to us them in Russian. Due to her lack of pro- gal papers come through. Year’s is to the secular version. For us, it is for assistance and support services, and we fi ciency in English, she could not pay A 67-year-old female client has been a time of introspection and hoping to do are proud to have been able to help them. her bills properly and her section 8 hous- diagnosed with cancer. She was very things better. For the January 1 revelers, The Queens Jewish Community Council is ing subsidy was being denied because depressed due to her situation and her it is just a time to let it all hang out and the united voice of Queens Jewry in dealing her landlord didn’t make timely repairs. health was deteriorating. She was having have fun. But with it all, it is a time to say with government offi cials and organizing Without the subsidy this woman would diffi culty navigating the system. Due to goodbye to last year and welcome the new actions on behalf of Israel and other Jewish be homeless. We worked tirelessly and a clerical snafu she was denied Medicare one. The year 2016 was not an especially for therapy since it was thought that she good one, so good riddance. For eight years was still working. We spoke to a Medicare I have been awaiting to see Barack Obama All that the QJCC does - representative. The issue was resolved leave town and thank G-d we will be fi nally whether it’s advocacy, family services, combating hunger, and she will now be able to go for her welcoming a new President Donald Trump. therapy. Now that 2017 is here we can all start fresh immigrant services, or protecting the elderly - I hope that this gives you a sampling and make it the best year that we can. is done with compassion, dignity, and effectiveness of the scope of our work. Many of our cli- It might be fi tting at this juncture to re- ents are referred to us by a rabbi, friend, or view something that has been bothering neighbor – sometimes by word of mouth. me. In the past couple of weeks, I have causes. All that we do, whether it is advo- successfully to have her landlord in com- The more people that know about us, the had several people from the neighborhood cacy, family services, combating hunger, pliance with section 8 and so our client more we can be of help to them. approach me and say,” I know the Queens immigrant services, protecting the elderly, is able to stay in her apartment .We also Let’s hope that 2017 will be a good and Jewish Community Council does good victim’s assistance, and cultural events is committed ourselves to visit her regularly successful year for our community – that work, but what does it do exactly? I would done with compassion, dignity, and effec- to help with her bills. all needs will be taken care of. But just in like to begin 2017 by answering that query tiveness. If we can be of assistance to any A 43-year-old client came to the Unit- case that will not come to fruition, please in this column. of our readers, please do not hesitate to ed States seeking political asylum status. know that QJCC is available to be of as- For starters, The Queens Jewish Commu- call me at 718-544-9033 or e-mail me at czal- In Uzbekistan, his home country, he was sistance to those who need our help. The nity Council is the lead agency for 146 syn- [email protected]. persecuted. A caseworker at QJCC provid- Queens Jewish Community Council does agogues, schools, and Jewish organizations Well, I’ve gotten that off my chest and I ed the client with information in com- indeed do good work. One rabbi called us in the borough of Queens. QJCC is a social hope it will be helpful. pleting the proper forms and helped him the Jewish 311 for Queens and now I hope service agency that serves the members of To understand the diverse mission that with resources such as Food Stamps. It that you have a sense of what we do. our community in whatever capacity war- QJCC has and give you a fl avor of what ranted. QJCC’s unoffi cial tag line is that we do, I would like to describe four of the Cynthia Zalisky is the Executive Director of the Queens Jewish Community. She can be contacted we serve everyone from birth to advanced neediest clients that came to us just this at [email protected] senior years. Among the services offered past week. are entitlements assistance, immigrant le- A 92-year-old man called me to ask for gal services, senior programming, family help. He had fallen and was now home- counseling, youth mentoring, women’s em- bound but did not feel that his aide powerment programs, medical insurance was trustworthy about kashrus and had facilitation for Medicare, Medicaid, Afford- been only eating fruits and vegetables. able Care Act and Medicare D, food stamp I arranged for him to receive meals-on- facilitation on site, Holocaust survivors’ wheels that are glatt kosher so that he assistance, combating hunger through our could have proper nutrition as he recu- Solution to this issue’s puzzles

Make Sure Brain Is On Before Putting Mouth In Gear CONTINUED FROM P. 14 sight and inspiration from them. And from their sensitivity we can become is illustrative of the way that Yaakov lived conscious of the power Hashem gave every moment of his life. us called speech. Our words can be the source of great comfort and support What This Means to Us to others, or they can be callous, biting When we study the Avos, we come swords that cut away at the soul of those to recognize that while we will never around us. With speech, we can build function on their level, we can gain in- worlds – or destroy them.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 29 For What It’s Worth Warren S. Hecht Short Memories iming is everything. I was planning structure or status of the Palestinian and was passed on June 30, 1980. Among other by Israel, the occupying Power, which have to write an article about the contin- other Arab territories occupied since 1967, things, it states that it: altered or purport to alter the character Tued uproar concerning the United including Jerusalem, or any part thereof, 1. Reaffi rms the overriding necessity and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem, States abstention in the Security Coun- have no legal validity and that Israel’s pol- to end the prolonged occupation of Arab and, in particular, the recent “basic law” on cil to condemn the settlements in Israel. icy and practices of settling parts of its territories occupied by Israel since 1967, in- Jerusalem, are null and void and must be Some writers went so far as to claim that population and new immigrants in those cluding Jerusalem; rescinded forthwith; Obama has been the worst president for territories constitute a fl agrant violation 2. Strongly deplores the continued re- 3. Affi rms also that this action consti- Israel. Likewise, there has been an attempt of the Fourth Geneva Convention relative fusal of Israel, the occupying Power, to tutes a serious obstruction to achieving a to paint this vote into a Democratic vs to the Protection of civilian Persons in comply with the relevant resolutions of comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Republican issue. They claim that the Re- Time of War and also constitute a serious the Security Council and the General As- the Middle East; publican Party is more pro-Israel than the obstruction to achieving a comprehen- sembly; 4. Decides not to recognize the “basic Democratic Party. Then I turned on CNN sive, just and lasting peace in the Middle 3. Reconfi rms that all legislative and law” and such other actions by Israel that, and the guest was James Baker, the former East; administrative measures and actions tak- as a result of this law, seek to alter the Secretary of State under President George character and status of Jerusalem and calls H.W. Bush. He is considered one of the upon all Members of the United Nations: senior statesmen in the Republican Party To consider Obama the worst president toward Israel (a) to accept this decision; when it comes to foreign affairs. He said and to forget that Republican administrations have also done things (b) and upon those States that have es- that he approved the United States absten- tablished diplomatic Missions in Jerusa- tion and said that it was consistent with that upset Israel is to ignore history lem to withdraw such Missions from the long-standing United States policy. Holy City.” He also pointed out that in 1980 the The Israel Foreign Ministry put out the United States voted in favor of the resolu- Strongly deplores the continuation and en by Israel, the occupying Power, which following response to the vote: tion in the United National Security Coun- persistence of Israel in pursuing those pol- purport to alter the character and status of “The unjust and unilateral resolution of cil condemning the Israeli occupation of icies and practices and calls upon the Gov- the Holy City of Jerusalem have no legal the U.N. Security Council last night on the settlements. ernment and people of Israel to rescind validity and constitute a fl agrant violation subject of Jerusalem furnishes additional There were three resolutions passed in those measures, to dismantle the existing of the Fourth Geneva Convention relative proof that the United Nations organization 1980 relating to the issue of settlements, settlements and in particular to cease, on to the Protection of Civilian Persons in has been converted into an instrument in including Jerusalem. an urgent basis, the establishment, con- Time of War and also constitute a serious the hands of Israel’s enemies in their war The fi rst one was Resolution 465, passed struction and planning of settlements in obstruction to achieving a comprehensive, against her existence and independence. on March 1, which the United States voted the Arab territories occupied since 1967, just and lasting peace in the Middle East; We are especially disappointed that in favor of. including Jerusalem; 4. Reiterates that all such measures very important free countries lent their Included in the resolution was that the Calls upon all States not to provide Is- which have altered the geographic, demo- hand to decisions which they themselves United Nations: rael with any assistance to be used specif- graphic and historical character and status know have nothing in common with the “Determines that all measures taken ically in connection with settlements in of the Holy City of Jerusalem are null and true reality prevailing in Jerusalem. by Israel to change the physical character, the occupied territories.” void and must be rescinded in compliance This resolution will encourage extrem- demographic composition, institutional The second was Resolution 476, which with the relevant resolutions of the Secu- ism, blackmail and incitement to war in rity Council; international relations. 5. Urgently calls on Israel, the occupy- Israel categorically rejects the resolu- ing Power, to abide by this and previous tion. Security Council resolutions and to desist It will not undermine the status of Je- forthwith from persisting in the policy rusalem as the capital of a sovereign Israel and measures affecting the character and and as a united city which will never again status of the Holy City of Jerusalem. be torn apart. The United States Ambassador, in ex- In a conversation with the U.S. ambassa- plaining the United States abstention of dor, the foreign minister today expressed the resolution, stated that “this resolution Israel’s regret at the U.S. vote in the U.N. contains much which is consistent with Security Council.” the policy of my government because it These are just some examples of United deplores unilateral acts which have sought States’ votes in the United Nations over a to change the character of the city outside two-year period. There are plenty of other a negotiated settlement. The signifi cance examples which indicate that America’s of those acts is they are inconsistent not support for Israel has not as been as great only with international law but, indeed, as we tend to remember. The United States with the very nature of negotiation, which had a policy in 1948, the arms embargo to is essential to peace.” the Middle East, which on the face was The Israeli government had a different neutral. However, the Arabs had the armies response. “Israel rejects the Security Coun- and the arms and the Jews didn’t. They cil resolution of 30 June 1980 on Jerusalem, had to rely upon smuggled weapons from and does not accept its principles. The fu- Eastern Europe under the control of the ture of Jerusalem will not be determined former USSR. by discussions of this nature. United Je- In 1956 President Eisenhower ordered rusalem was, is, and will be the capital of Israel, France, and Great Britain to leave sovereign Israel and will never be divided.” the Suez Canal. In 1990-1991 President G.W. On August 24, 1980, the United Nations Bush with James Baker as Secretary of State Security Council passed Resolution 478, held up loan guarantees for Israel because which the United States also abstained of Israel’s settlement policy. Although in from. 1980 Israel designated Jerusalem as its cap- Resolution 478 stated that it: ital, the United States has not recognized 1. “Affi rms that the enactment of the Jerusalem as such. This non-recognition “basic law” by Israel constitutes a violation has occurred during both Democratic and of international law and does not affect Republican administrations the continued application of the Fourth The United States abstention in the Geneva Convention of 12 August 1949 Rel- most recent United Nations resolution ative to the Protection of Civilian Persons was unfortunate and President Obama in Time of War in the Palestinian and other should be condemned for it. However, to Arab territories occupied since June 1967, consider him to be the worst president to- including Jerusalem; ward Israel and to forget that Republican 2. Determines that all legislative and ad- administrations have also done things that ministrative measures and actions taken upset Israel is to ignore history.

Warren S. Hecht is a local attorney. He can be reached at [email protected]

30 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Blue And White Shmuel Sackett Huckabee And His Support Of Missionaries In Israel CONTINUED FROM P. 1 sealed shut. Please note that Mike Huckabee’s per- the gym, before getting ready to hit the sonal religious beliefs do not bother me in weights, I switch the channel (usually at any way. He has the freedom to choose his MTV) to Channel 200, which – here in Is- religion and I respect his choice. It’s when rael – is Fox News. Over the years, I have his beliefs cross the line and enter my zone watched and have become very impressed that my boxing gloves go on. He can pray to with Sean Hannity, Bill O’Reilly, Tucker whomever he chooses but how dare he – or Carlson, Eric Bolling, Judge Jeanine Pirro, anyone else – reach out to my brothers and and others. All of these people host won- sisters in an attempt to steal them away derful and informative shows, and I gener- from Hashem! How dare he – and the orga- ally enjoy their commentary. I also enjoy nization he endorses – “provide humanitar- the guests they have on their shows, espe- ian aid to Holocaust survivors with the love cially my #1 favorite Fox guest and contrib- of Yeshua” (sic)! Everyone knows that many utor, (former) Governor Mike Huckabee. of these Holocaust survivors are weak and Governor Huckabee says it like it is. He broken and are perfect candidates to ac- speaks clearly, professionally, and always cept the false prophet into their lives. Is to the point. His stance on Israel is strong this what Mike Huckabee wants… that after and unapologetic. He is against the Two- all a Holocaust survivor went through and State Solution, is very pro-settlements, survived… that in his/her fi nal years they and is a sincere and devoted advocate for a I was shocked. I was horrified. throw away their connection to Hashem strong and proud Jewish state. In short, he and the Jewish people? is a rare gem in the media. The difference between me and those connected to Huckabee This is why I did not attend any of the Last week, Governor Huckabee visited was that I kept my eyes open while theirs were sealed shut Huckabee festivities in Israel last week and Israel. He spoke in the Knesset, met with I will never go to any event that has him settlement leaders, and visited Hebron. He as a guest until I clarify this point. Until I had 98% of the right-wing camp eating out do the same.” felt that we found our advocate and weap- hear – in a public setting – that Governor of the palm of his hands and he took selfi es This video can be seen on the website on in the media war. And then shortly after- Mike Huckabee opposes proselytizing Jews with anyone who asked. His warm smile, JewishIsrael.com, which works day and wards, my friends at JewishIsrael.com told and that he renounces his endorsement of with that big dimple, was splashed across night at uncovering and battling mission- me to look at the video. I was shocked. I “One for Israel” and for all gospel activity countless Facebook pages. Because of his ary activity in Israel and on social media. was horrifi ed. The difference between me aimed at Jews, I will never again be seen at close connection and special relationship They do a terrifi c job. and those connected to Huckabee was a Huckabee event. I urge anyone who can with President-elect Trump, people were When I saw this video a few months ago, that I kept my eyes open while theirs were reach him to please set the record straight. overjoyed that wonderful days are ahead for I sent it to people who are close to Gover- Israel. Even though I enjoy his commentar- nor Huckabee. I asked them to please clar- ies on Fox – as I wrote above – I stayed away ify his position on it but I never received a from all those meetings in Israel, because response. I then sent it to people who were there is a major difference between Mike scheduled to meet with Huckabee in Israel Huckabee commenting on Fox and Mike and, once again, did not receive a response. Huckabee visiting Israel and being cheered Finally, I sent it to several Jewish media at every speech. The reason is simple: Gov- outlets and nobody printed it or even men- ernor Mike Huckabee endorses proselytiz- tioned it! All I wanted to hear was someone ing Jews in Israel to bring them to Jesus. Yes, ask him – in a public setting – whether he you read that right. He endorses missionary still endorses the missionary group “One activities aimed at Jews in Israel. for Israel,” yet nobody had the guts to do it. Before you look for a hammer with I have stated many times, and did so in which to hit me on the head, please allow this article, that I enjoy Mike Huckabee’s me to prove my point. I would never write comments on Fox, and other places as these words if they weren’t 100% true… and well. However, I am able to differentiate unfortunately they are. between someone commenting from a TV There is a terrible organization called studio in New York vs. coming to my home “One for Israel,” which defi nes itself as “a in Hebron and Jerusalem. Let me make my ministry which teaches Israelis that Yeshua position perfectly clear: If Mike Huckabee is the Messiah” (chas v’shalom). They ed- still believes in what he said on the “One ucate and raise leaders to preach this an- for Israel” video then – no!! – he is not wel- ti-Jewish doctrine all over Israel and they comed in Israel, no matter how eloquently pour millions of dollars into their goal of he speaks about Israel and the settlements. ripping Jews away from Hashem and His If Mike Huckabee helps an organization holy Torah. According to their website, they that proselytizes Jews in Israel (or any- “provide humanitarian aid to Holocaust where, for that matter) then I don’t want survivors with the love of Yeshua.” Their him speaking at my fundraising dinners or promotional video ends with a plea: “Join praying at my holy Wall! us as we share the gospel in Israel. Become I think the reason that people avoid this One for Israel.” topic is because there is such little support What does this have to do with Mike for Israel in the media that when – fi nal- Huckabee? Simple. Mike Huckabee fully ly! – someone of Huckabee’s stature stands endorses this evil group. Please read this up and defends Israel, we simply overlook exact quote from Huckabee, which can be everything else and jump for joy. I, too, seen on the One for Israel Missionary vid- jumped for joy and was ecstatic when I eo: “I hope you’ve heard of the wonderful heard his words. The last time he came to things that G-d is doing with Jews and Ar- Israel, I did attend one of his meetings in abs in Israel. Well, I’ve heard about it and I the Knesset, and even had lunch with him have become One for Israel. I hope you will afterwards. I smiled the whole time since I

Shmuel Sackett is a 100% product of Queens. He was born in Middle Village and moved to KGH shortly before his bar-mitzvah. He graduated from YCQ (1975) and YHSQ (1979). He was Havurat Yisrael’s fi rst Youth Director (4 years) and started the fi rst 2 NCSY chapters in Queens. Shmuel made aliyah in 1990 and co-founded Manhigut Yehudit, together with Moshe Feiglin. His website is www.JewishIsrael.org Sackett is married with 6 children and 4 grandchildren. He lives in Herziliya Pituach.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 31 32 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Rebbetzin Ruth Schonfeld, a”h Beloved rebbetzin, who was instrumental in building Queens’ Hachnosas Kallah, mourned by communities worldwide

By Pearl Markovitz Chicago, whose relationship with Rebbetzin Schonfeld spans 45 years, sarah B’Teves, marked this she was a sage woman who shared year on Sunday, January 8, wisdom, whether solicited or not. Acommemorated a national She gave guidance to young people disaster for klal Yisrael when the seeking direction as well as to older Babylonians fi rst surrounded the people seeking comfort and conso- Beis HaMikdash with towers for lation. two and a half years and instilled Representing the numerous fear in Yerushalayim’s inhabitants. grandchildren of Rebbetzin Ruth One day later, on January 9, the was Simcha Schonfeld, son of Rab- Queens community, along with bi Yoel. In alluding to his uncle’s other communities within the Rebbetzin Ruth Schonfeld with husband Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld portrayal of his grandmother as United States as well as Israel and an eishes chayil in every sense that Europe, suffered a more personal “Rebbetzin Schonfeld exemplified the beauty that is associated Shlomo HaMelech had in mind, he loss, but a great one as well, with with the Jewish woman: modesty and midos” suggested one additional talent not the passing of our beloved Rebbet- described in that tribute that Reb- zin Ruth Schonfeld a”h. Serving the betzin Ruth displayed. “Our grand- community of Kew Gardens Hills listed as the deceased.” Brussels have for their Grandma mother was a talented artist. She as Rebbetzin alongside the vener- Rabbi Yoel went on to praise and her mutual love for them. took the shards of glass remaining able Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld y”l his mother for uniting a fami- For Rabbi Shlomo Leifer, Nad- from two families and combined for 56 years, Rebbetzin Schonfeld’s ly and raising each one as her vorna Rebbe of Boro Park, the pass- them into a magnifi cent mosaic passing into Olam HaEmes will be own. From children to grandchil- ing of his sister is painful. “When that is forever expanding and burst- mourned below by so many for so dren, from great-grandchildren to I picture my sister, I picture us all ing into more and more colorful long. great-great-grandchildren – they all in the home of our parents z”l and and vibrant images.” At the age of 93, the majesty and loved Ima/Mommy/Grandma and I am greatly pained at the loss. My For the hundreds attending the elegance with which she was iden- they were each her precious jewels. sister exemplifi ed the beauty that l’vayah, current and former mem- tifi ed accompanied her still. At her Her passion and dedication to is associated with the Jewish wom- bers of the Young Israel of Kew Gar- recent honor as Eishes Chayil at the Erna Lindenbaum Hachnosas an: modesty and midos. When you dens Hills, representatives of the the 65th Anniversary Dinner of the Kallah Organization, which began came into my sister’s home, her National Council of Young Israel, shul on Yom Yerushalayim 2016, in the YIKGH, grew it into a world- treasures were her attributes. If the Rabbinical Council of America, Rabbi Schonfeld recalled when Me- wide organization, helping bring you wish to see how beautiful a Yeshiva University, and the Ortho- nachem Begin visited the Young Is- needy kallahs to the chupah with woman she was, look at her ikvei dox Union, as well as members of rael of Kew Gardens Hills and told everything they needed, and per- ha’tzon, her children through her the Vaad Harabonim of Queens and the audience that he felt like he haps most importantly, with dig- great-great-grandchildren, all who distinguished rabbanim from all was at the Embassy of the State of nity and joy. Her work on behalf continue in her derech. parts of the Metropolitan area, the Israel. “Tonight,” proclaimed Rabbi of many other charitable organiza- Son Joseph Schindelheim por- farewell to Rebbetzin Ruth Schon- Schonfeld to the dinner attendees, tions and individuals was known to trayed his mother a”h as loving feld was a deeply sorrowful and “we are honoring the First Lady of all. and strong. She united her family painful event. the Embassy.” For youngest son Rabbi Aryeh into one coherent clan. He shared On behalf of those of us who A tearful Rabbi Yoel Schonfeld, Schonfeld, who fl ew in from Swit- a touching moment that occurred were zochim to a rebbetzin as “ma- current mara d’asra of YIKGH, zerland the morning of the l’vayah, just days before. One of her pas- jestic” as Rebbetzin Ruth Schonfeld, shared his disbelief at seeing his his gratitude to his beloved mother sions was facilitating shidduchim “Our simchos were not truly sim- mother’s name listed on the many for her belief in him and constant at which she worked hard along- chos without Rabbi and Rebbetzin forms he was required to fi ll out at encouragement are boundless. “I side other local rebbetzins. Just days Schonfeld in attendance.” Sinai Chapels before the l’vayah. remember the morning of my au- before her passing, when she was We pray that Rebbetzin Ruth bas “Despite the hundreds of times I fruf when I put on my shtreimel for losing strength, she turned to the Shalom Schonfeld be a melitzas have reviewed these forms for oth- the fi rst time, my mother a”h told doctor treating her and offered, “Do yosher for us to HaKadosh Baruch ers, I cannot express the shock and me that I looked “regal.” Rav Aryeh I have a match for you!” Hu. incredulity I felt at seeing her name cherishes the love that his sons in For son-in-law Shabsi Wolf from Yehi zichrah baruch! Rebbetzin Ruth Schonfeld: An Appreciation By Rebecca Rushfield Wittert be, will always be “The Rebbetzin” careful attention to her outfi ts, one ing to each person with genuine to anyone who had the privilege to would notice that she carefully cal- interest, making him or her feel knew Rebbetzin Ruth Schon- know her in that capacity, whether ibrated her clothing so as to never special. feld since I was a small child, they still live in Kew Gardens Hills outshine the baalas simchah. Each of us who knew her is ex- Iwhen she came to Kew Gar- or moved away decades ago. A warm and loving person, each periencing her passing as a painful dens Hills after her marriage to Ruth Schonfeld was a beautiful, Shabbos and Yom Tov she would personal loss. Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld. stylish woman. As a young girl (and walk down the aisle of the wom- As a friend who left Kew Gardens With apologies to all other wom- as a grown woman), I loved to see en’s section of the YIKGH greeting Hills for New Jersey two decades en who are shul rebbetzins, Ruth her dressed up for shul and for each woman by name. And at shul ago said to me when she heard the Schonfeld, who was the embodi- simchos. But she was also a very and community events, she would news, “There will never be another ment of what a rebbetzin should thoughtful woman. If one paid walk from table to table, speak- rebbetzin like her.”

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 33 34 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Community Corner • Recent Happenings A Momentous Shabbos Rabbinic Inauguration In Kew Gardens Hills At YIQV Packed The Shul By Ilana Goldschein community as a whole with regard to his By Sergey Kadinsky pella Singing Group representing the tzi- involvement with kashrus matters, the bur, a rarity these days, as changing musi- he Shabbos of Parshas VaYeishev, eruv, and the mikvah. He shared with the he sanctuary of the Young Israel cal tastes and tight budgets have reduced December 24, Erev Chanukah, klal his pride in being able to avert a major of Queens Valley was fi lled to ca- the reliance on chazanim and choirs in Tmarked a milestone for the Young kashrus travesty from affecting the Queens Tpacity this past Shabbos, Shabbos many Orthodox shuls. I do not know Israel of Queens Valley in particular, and community by not allowing a certain meat VaYigash, welcoming Rabbi Shmuel Mar- when YIQV will again have a trained voice for the community of Kew Gardens Hills production company to be accepted here cus as its new mara d’asra. “For the fi rst at the bimah, but I look forward to it. as a whole. On this Shabbos, a kiddush was by the Vaad, although there was much pres- time in more than fi fty years a rabbi other The drashah given by Rabbi Marcus given in honor of Rabbi Peretz Steinberg’s sure to do so since the caterers were saving than Rabbi Peretz Steinberg will stand at tackled the reality that on the day follow- upcoming retirement as the rav of the money by accepting their meat products. the pulpit,” said shul president Dr. Marty ing the festive Kiddush is the fast of Asar- shul. Rabbi Steinberg served for 56 years as Rabbi Steinberg went so far as to cancel a Braun. ah B’Teves, commemorating the begin- Rabbi of the Young Israel of Queens Valley, scheduled dinner for the shul in order to The arrival of Rabbi Marcus was highly ning of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem. since its inception. Despite the morning avoid accepting that meat production. He anticipated among the YIQV members, as A biblical fast, it was mentioned by the rain, there was quite a respectable turn- related that it took seven years until that he had been the personal choice of Rabbi navi Zechariah in a positive light, a day out of people who came in honor of Rabbi company was no longer in business. Steinberg to succeed him, receiving early of “joy and gladness.” Rabbi Marcus inter- Peretz and Rebbetzin Chaya Steinberg, Rabbi Steinberg spoke about the signif- praise for his ability to connect with peo- preted this quote as referencing prayers including their lovely children and grand- icance of having a mikvah in the commu- ple, pasken sh’eilos, and lead numerous for the nation’s future. His emphasis on

Against all odds, opening up two weeks The warm welcome of YIQV’s Rabbi Emeritus, president, before Rosh HaShanah without a rabbi, a sefer Torah, gabbaim, and membership signaled that after a decade of chairs, or siddurim, the shul was inaugurated, davening in a rented space limited by scheduling conflicts, and Peretz Steinberg became the Rabbi we had arrived children. All who attended were treated to nity, and the many challenges involved in programs in a synagogue. As older mem- outreach and unity referenced a story a beautiful Shacharis davening, performed having it built. When Rabbi Steinberg told bers move out and pass on, his arrival about Rabbi Yitzchak Dovid Grossman of by their son Rabbi Eli Steinberg, and Musaf Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky zt”l that he was also was expected to revive attendance Migdal Ha’Emek. In a recent Israeli mili- by their son Rabbi Binyomin Steinberg. building a mikvah in his community, Rav with many members of his former shul, tary operation against Hezbollah, a solider The highlight of the service, however, was Yaakov said, “Don’t do anything without Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, following him to the asked the rabbi to give chizuk to his com- the Rav’s speech, which all in attendance Jacobs.” Apparently there were three dif- Young Israel of Queens Valley. He did not rades ahead of a battle. Not realizing that eagerly listened to with rapt attention. ferent architects involved and many build- disappoint, as the parking lot fi lled with a secular rock band was also scheduled to Rabbi Steinberg began by describ- ers. Originally, Rabbi Steinberg wanted to strollers, children were watched by Rabbi speak within the same short timeframe, ing the formation of the Young Israel of have a certain chaver of his from yeshivah Marcus’ daughters while parents davened, he asked to speak about the importance of Queens Valley through the efforts of Max who later became an architect, to be the and new younger faces sat alongside long- k’rias Sh’ma. As he sang the prayer, the mu- Sattinger as well as Rubin and Rita Mar- one to do the job. That friend didn’t feel time members. sicians followed along with their instru- kowitz. The congregation started with a qualifi ed to do the job, however, since he The unity at which Rabbi Marcus was ments in an inspiring display of unity that storefront rental on Vleigh Place. Mr. Sat- had never designed a mikvah. Instead, an- aiming to bring was evident as Ishei mem- strengthened the resolve of the audience. tinger was the renting agent, and the per- other architect who had a lot of experience bers sat and exchanged greetings with Despite the snowy forecast, nearly 500 son who showed an interest in renting the building mikvaos was hired. One day, the YIQV members. From my seat as a mis- people were estimated at the Shacharis property for $180 a month seemed to want experienced architect unexpectedly quit. palel, I expected people to sit with their service, many having walked for up to a to make a Conservative synagogue there. After seeing the plans of the fi rst archi- friends, and was pleasantly surprised to half hour to hear Rabbi Marcus deliver his That night, Max called an emergency tect, Jacobs said, “you will have a beautiful see genuine efforts at establishing new fi rst drashah as the rav of YIQV. For the meeting at Ruby Markowitz’s home. After building, but you won’t have a mikvah.” friendships across the generation gap. majority of Ishei members, myself includ- explaining the situation, he took $10 from A second architect was then employed, For the most part, davening was as disci- ed, who elected to follow Rabbi Marcus each of the 18 men present and told them, and then ultimately, the third one was his plined and quiet as had been the norm at to his new pulpit, the warm welcome of “Now you rented a shul!” If not for Max’s chaver from yeshivah, Gershon Goodman. Ishei Yisrael, which was founded 13 years YIQV’s Rabbi Emeritus, president, gab- quick intervention, it would have become Rabbi Steinberg related the story about his ago with serious davening as its mission. baim, and membership signaled that after a Conservative synagogue. Rabbi Stein- friend in yeshivah who liked to draw, and Having been raised in a shul where a a decade of davening in a rented space berg mentioned the hashgachah pratis how he was drafted to fi ght in the Korean chazan led the services, it was refreshing limited by scheduling confl icts, we had involved, with his being available for the War. He came back to yeshivah from Fort to hear the voices of the V’samachta Aca- arrived. position at the time, Erev Rosh HaShanah. Dix (in New Jersey) before being sent to He had previously informed Rabbi Schon- Korea. He came to say goodbye to all his feld before the summer that he would not friends. Rabbi Steinberg related how he in- be available to help out with the down- quired of his friend if he had spoken with stairs minyan of the Young Israel of Kew their rebbe, Rav Shisgal. Rabbi Steinberg Gardens Hills for the Yamim Nora’im, but prevailed upon him to do so, and seeming- his alternate plans never materialized. ly in the merit of their rebbe’s brachah, his Against all odds, opening up two weeks friend was not shipped out to Korea after before Rosh HaShanah without a rabbi, all, but rather was utilizing his typing skills a sefer Torah, chairs, or siddurim, the shul in New Jersey throughout the war. Later, was inaugurated, and Peretz Steinberg be- he was able to attend a school for architec- came the Rabbi. ture as a result of being in the Army. Rabbi Steinberg proceeded to thank all Rabbi Steinberg told a beautiful story those who served as president of the shul about his mother, and how she would sing throughout the years by name, as well to him while he was a baby in the stroller. as all of the presidents of the Women’s She would sing the words “Peretz, in yeshi- League. He thanked the members of the vah vet ehr gein, Torah vet ehr lernen, Torah shul for accepting his leadership and not tzivah lanu Moshe, morashah kehilas Yaa- viewing him as an extremist, although at kov, Peretz vet zugen a langeh drashah.” The times he had to veto certain fundraising subliminal message was that he should proposals that he felt were not in the spir- grow up to become a rav who would give it of the shul. Rabbi Steinberg expressed a long drashah. Rabbi Steinberg explained his appreciation that he and his wife have that, years ago, rabbis would give a long for being able to raise children who went drashah (for an hour) in the morning, as on to become pillars in their own respect- well as another hour-long drashah later in ed communities. the day. Rabbi Steinberg refl ected on some of the contributions that he made to the CONTINUED ON P. 36

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 35 A Momentous Shabbos In Kew Gardens Hills CONTINUED FROM P. 35 how that transpired, was not discussed at this time, nor was his signifi cant role Rabbi Steinberg emotionally de- with the Beis Din and Geirus. scribed that, when he was a young boy Rabbi Steinberg ended his drashah by living in Bedford-Stuyvesant, there was looking forward to the coming of Mashi- no yeshivah nearby, and that the closest ach and having the YIQV shul in Eretz yeshivah was in Williamsburg. His moth- Yisrael. er would travel with him on the trolley During the announcements after the four times a day, so that he would be tefi lah, Dr. Marty Braun thanked Rabbi able to attend yeshivah, since there was Steinberg for always being available to a break during the day for the boys to go answer the many sh’eilos of the commu- home for lunch. He quoted a pasuk with nity members. He shared a humorous regard to the L’viim carrying the Aron. story reminiscing the formation of the The words “ba’kasef yisa’u” connote shi- fi rst little league team of the YIQV. He rah, according to the Gemara. Rabbi related that the children were not nec- Steinberg’s mother, too, carried him back essarily the best players, but the Wom- and forth to yeshivah with love and plea- en’s League decided that they would be sure and song. outfi tted in beautiful uniforms. When Undoubtedly, Rabbi Steinberg’s moth- the jerseys arrived and his wife Zelda er and father are shepping much nachas in opened the package, she lifted one that Gan Eden from the many achievements had the name Steinberg on the back with of their son, the Rav. How appropriate the number 18. She exclaimed in amaze- for Parshas VaYeishev to be the Shabbos ment to her friend Rosita Wechsler that for celebrating Rabbi Steinberg’s tenure it was so sweet that the Rabbi’s son Eli as rav of the Young Israel of Queens Val- would choose the number 18, symbolic ley. After all, in Parshas VaYeishev, a son of chai, and what an appropriate choice was born to Yehudah and he was named that was for a rabbi’s son. She was later Peretz, meaning strength. Rabbi Peretz enlightened that the number 18 was the Steinberg has certainly utilized his many number of the famous ballplayer Darryl kochos to overcome the many obsta- Strawberry, and that perhaps the rabbi’s cles he encountered as a rav, as well as son was a normal kid after all. to achieve his many accomplishments, As an expression of hakaras ha’tov, notwithstanding the ones that have not over 100 people contributed to a lovely been spoken about at length, including kiddush that followed the davening. The the establishment of the eruv, which congregation is looking forward to the played a most signifi cant role in the tribute dinner in February that will be growth and development of Kew Gar- honoring Rabbi and Rebbetzin Steinberg dens Hills. Rabbi Steinberg’s very signifi - for their 56 years of service to the Young cant involvement in the chevrah kadisha Israel of Queens Valley and to the com- of the Young Israel of Queens Valley, and munity of Kew Gardens Hills.

36 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 37 Community Corner • Recent Happenings Virtual Storefronts Fundraise To Rebuild On Vleigh By QJL Staff involved in many charitable events. We are a hard-work- ing family-owned business that has prided ourselves in ollowing the disastrous fi re that devastated 14 being the go-to place for home-made, traditional, kosher storefronts on Vleigh Place in Kew Gardens Hills, Tandoori bread.” Ffour of them have reemerged online through fun- draising campaigns aiming to rebuild. Their determina- Moshe’s Pizza tion to do so is matched by the loyalty of their custom- www.gofundme.com/vc-rebuilding-kosher-moshes-pizza ers, neighbors, family members, and friends. The Queens Jewish Link encourages readers to show their support for Led by Daniel Benjamin on behalf of his family, aim- these popular businesses that are an integral part of the ing to raise $150,000. This business was one of fi ve kosher neighborhood fabric. pizzerias in Kew Gardens Hills, popular among Lander College students and residents of the surrounding co-ops. Eliyaus Barber Shop “Unfortunately, if we do get the insurance pay out, it will www.gofundme.com/eliyaus-barber-shop be minimal, and not nearly enough to help rebuild Kosher Moshe’s and sustain a moderate standard of living,” Ben- Led by Benny Kandinov on behalf of his father, aiming jamin wrote in a statement. “All we want is to rebuild our to raise $35,000 to reopen the business that had relocated business so we can continue to support the community to Vleigh Place only a month before the fi re. and our family.” King David Bakery Haim’s International www.gofundme.com/bakery17 www.gofundme.com/marikhaimsinter Led by the family of proprietor Marik Gavrielov, aim- Led by Benny Murdakhayev on behalf of his father ing to raise $125,000. This store was one of only two Bukh- David, aiming to raise $35,000. In his description of the arian Jewish “International foods” stores in Kew Gardens business, Murdakhayev described it as one of only three Hills, which sold a variety of food items from Israel, Cen- his wife have a newborn, yeshivah bills for 5+ kids, mort- bakeries of its kind in the city. “We have provided bread tral Asia, and the former Soviet Union. “G-d knows when gage bills, and now a new expense – grocery bills to pay for many synagogues in the community and have been they’ll be allowed to rebuild again, but until then, he and for, amongst other expenses.” Chabad On Campus Of Queens Hosts Scholar-In-Residence habad on Campus of Queens launched a pilot for a distinctive, ad- Cvanced Torah program. “We’ve been working with college students in Queens since 2004,” said Rabbi Shaul Wertheimer of Chabad on Campus of Queens, “and there is a genuine thirst for more depth, and more spirituality, amongst students. We reached out to Rabbi Shais Taub of Pittsburgh to answer the call as the scholar- in-residence. Taub is a prolifi c author and educator, with a rare talent for elucidat- ing Torah in general and chasidic texts in particular. I also thoroughly enjoy teaching (R-L) Avi Solkoff, Aaron Laster, Eliran Rebeyev, Ethan Borst, Mordechai Caplan, Shaindy Ferster, Chava Hinsey, Simone Fischer, Chumash and Talmud.” Sarah Shevchuk, Stephanie Tsyss The day began at 9:30 a.m. with a gour- met breakfast, followed by intensive learn- friends back on campus,” she added. Rabbi Taub. “It was a pleasure to study with attends school. “This has been a great ex- ing that kept the students intrigued until 5 Coordinated and staffed by both Rabbi such bright and highly motivated students. perience,” Rebeyev said, “[Rabbi Taub] has p.m. “I enjoyed the high level of the learn- Shaul and Tzipah Wertheimer, the pro- They asked great questions and made great really opened my eyes to the world of cha- ing,” said Suri Zwibel of Lawrence, “which gram’s success is “in large part due to Rabbi points. I’m honored to have been a part of sidus.” I felt was on an accelerated level.” Shmuli and Chavie Lieberman, our col- the fi rst year of this new initiative and I “My wife, Tzipah and I are very excited Classes included Tanya (the foundation- leagues at Chabad of Hofstra, who taught defi nitely see this growing in a major way.” about the future; this is just the beginning. al book of chasidic thought), Chumash in classes and were involved in almost every Mordechai Caplan of Queens College We are very grateful to Chabad on Cam- depth, Talmud, the chasidic discourse Kun- detail,” Wertheimer said. Teaching staff learns Torah with Wertheimer regularly pus International that helped facilitate tres U’Maayan, and more. “I am so grateful also included Rabbi Yisrael and Mrs. Vivi and was eager to attend. “The Winter Torah this program with their undying efforts to that the Chabad Winter Torah program has Deren of Stamford, Connecticut, “whose Study program gave me context about the meet the needs of students from all back- allowed me to immerse myself in the deep- wealth of wisdom and chasidic warmth is world around me and my role, not just as a grounds,” Wertheimer concluded. est, truest Torah learning,” remarked Sarah immeasurable,” Wertheimer added. person, but as a Jew in the grander scheme Students attended SUNY Albany, Bar- Shevchuk of Barnard College. “I not only “I was so impressed that college stu- of things,” he commented. “It was truly nard College, Brooklyn Law, Hofstra Uni- feel elevated by the learning but also feel dents would voluntarily use their break mind-opening.” Eliran Rebeyev of Kew Gar- versity, Penn State, University of Penn- that I have something incredibly valuable from school to join an intensive all-day dens Hills heard about the program from sylvania, Miami University of Ohio, Texas to take away and share with my family and Torah study program for a week,” refl ected his Chabad rabbi at SUNY Albany where he A&M, and Queens College. Orthodox Union Applauds US House For Passing Resolution Countering UN Security Council’s Anti-Israel Vote he Union of Orthodox Jewish Con- ing Member Eliot Engel (D-N.Y.). It had 104 threatening the trust and support Israel has After the House vote, Nathan Diament, gregations of America, the nation’s other co-sponsors and was approved Jan. 5 long placed in its most important ally. Executive Director for Public Policy for the Tlargest Orthodox Jewish umbrella by a vote of 342-80, with four voting “pre- House Resolution 11 calls for the UN Orthodox Union, stated: organization, applauded the US House of sent.” resolution to be repealed or fundamentally “We deeply appreciate the House’s clear Representatives for passing House Resolu- The House resolution rejects the United altered so that it is no longer one-sided and bipartisan rejection of the UN Security tion 11 – “Objecting to United Nations Secu- Nations Security Council’s December 23 anti-Israel; and supports direct bilateral ne- Council’s latest calumny against Israel and rity Council Resolution 2334 as an obstacle vote to approve Resolution 2334, which gotiations between the parties as the only the House’s repudiation of the Obama ad- to Israeli-Palestinian peace, and for other casts Israel’s building of settlements in legitimate path toward security and peace. ministration’s failure to veto UNSC Resolu- purposes.” the West Bank and East Jerusalem as ille- The Orthodox Union’s support for the tion 2334 as it should have. We appreciate The bipartisan resolution was intro- gal and an obstacle to Israeli-Palestinian House resolution was entered into the the strong leadership by Congressional duced by House Foreign Affairs Commit- peace. Rather than exercising its veto pow- Congressional Record by Rep. Chris Smith friends of Israel, including Representatives tee Chairman Ed Royce (R-Calif.) and Rank- er, the United States abstained from voting, (R-NJ). Ed Royce, Eliot Engel, and so many others.”

38 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Community Corner • Recent Happenings Special Chanukah Celebration At Beth Gavriel In Forest Hills By Susie Garber

n the last night of Chanukah, Sunday, January 1, a large group of communi- Oty members gathered at Beth Gavriel in Forest Hills for a Chanukah celebration hosted by Chazaq, Beth Gavriel, and Hidab- rut. The evening began with Yaniv Meirov, Operations Manager of Chazaq, lighting the menorah. Guests enjoyed sushi, doughnuts, and other treats. Rabbi Meyer Yedid speaking at the event The fi rst speaker, Rabbi Meyer Yedid, rav of Shaare Zion in Brooklyn, delivered a stir- think what we plan to do better to elevate ring shiur about chesed and emes. He posed ourselves higher like the candles. the question, why did Hashem send angels Rabbi Krohn also stressed that we cannot to be Avraham’s guests when this required a allow our broken brothers and sisters to be miracle. Why didn’t He just send men? Also, left without help. We must get involved. why did He send the same angels designat- Rabbi Krohn then shared a fascinating ed as messengers to Avraham to also be his Yaniv Meirov lighting the menorah the last night of Chanukah at the motza’ei Shabbos event idea from the B’nei Yisaschar about the drei- guests? del. The letters nun, gimel, shin, and hei each Rabbi Yedid answered these questions wedding day. She performed an extraordi- must learn from every experience he en- stand for something. The nun is nefesh. We through the course of the shiur. First, he nary act of kindness that day. She offered a counters. Don’t just go through an experi- can’t bring a korban today and the nefesh taught that David HaMelech said the world meal to a poor man during the time when ence; grow through it. Ask yourself, “What wants to come close to Hashem. The gimel is built on kindness. The only reason we most brides would not be available to do did I learn from this?” is guf. Haman wanted to destroy our bod- exist is because of Hashem’s midah of kind- such a thing. When she put her hat pin into This is true of holidays, too. If we don’t ies. The shin stands for seichel. The Syrian- ness. Every person must build himself or the wall that day, she had no idea that the change and grow after experiencing a holi- Greeks wanted to change our mindset, our herself in so many ways. He stressed that pin struck a snake and killed it. She was day, then we are like a donkey. The donkey seichel, to be like them. The hei stands for the most critical area that will help us build saved by the act of kindness she had per- carries wheat in the wheat season and bar- ha’kol. This symbolizes all the galuyos we our world is the area of kindness. formed for the poor man. ley in the barley season and oats in the oats have been in. Rabbi Krohn shared that the He pointed out that destruction comes The other key idea that Rabbi Yedid season but remains the same donkey. dreidel will fall down and the gematria of to the world when there is a lack of kind- taught is the importance of emes. Yosef did We have to think: What lesson(s) did I dreidel equals 358, which is the gematria of ness. We see this with the Mabul and with emes because he did not go with Potifar’s glean from Chanukah this year? Mashiach. All the galuyos will fall, and what the destruction of Sodom. He continued: wife. It would seem on the surface that if he We follow Hillel’s way of increasing the remains is 358, Mashiach. The Chofetz Chaim taught that chesed is a went with her, this would be the ticket to number of candles each night of Chanukah. The program ended with a heartfelt recit- critical part of this world. We all need some- all his dreams of being leader of the world. This teaches us that we should always go ing of t’hilim on behalf of Rav Shteinman. body sometime in our lives. Rabbi Yedid em- However, he didn’t do it. He knew it was not higher and improve. Each of us knows what Everyone left inspired and changed after phasized that the purpose of this world is emes. It was not right. We will never have G- areas we need to improve in. We should this beautiful Chanukah program. to build ourselves through opportunities of d’s help by doing the wrong thing. chesed. He noted that the Torah begins and Rabbi Yedid concluded. “May Hashem ends with chesed. In the beginning, Hashem open our eyes to see opportunities for clothes Adam and Chavah, and in the end chesed and emes, so that we will have siyata Hashem buries Moshe. diShmaya in all we do. Rabbi Yedid then acknowledged that all Following this, Rabbi Paysach Krohn, of us need siyata diShmaya. When Hashem well-known author, speaker, and mohel, is with us, then all the things that we do are shared a moving d’var Torah. Rabbi Krohn blessed. So how does a person earn siyata began with a teaching from Yirmiyahu Ha- diShmaya? Avraham was old and in pain Navi that the Jewish people are like beauti- when he saw three people who he thought ful olive trees. Rabbi Krohn asked why are needed help. At this point, he had every ex- we compared to olive trees? The Midrash cuse not to help them. Yet, if Avraham had Rabah (Sh’mos) teaches us that if you put wa- not run after them to invite them in, then ter and juice in a cup, it will mix. However, the angel who was sent to tell him he was if you place oil and water in a cup, the oil going to have a child would not have come rises to the top. The Jewish people are like in. The brachah was connected through olives and oil. We separate. We are different the diffi cult chesed. Rabbi Yedid explained from other nations. He noted how people that it’s like a box that is locked and can all over the world are drinking and partying be opened with an act of chesed. This is a to celebrate the beginning of the new year message for all of us. How many times do while we are gathered to learn Torah. It is we pray for something? Rabbi Yedid taught special that on the fi nal night of Chanukah, that Hashem sent it to us but it was tied to Jews are gathered together to learn Torah. a diffi cult chesed that we may have neglect- Rabbi Krohn pointed out that, in Psalm 128, ed to perform. G-d sends many brachos but it says that your children should be like not for free. He shared that the harder the olive plants around your table. Olives are chesed opportunity is, the bigger the bra- always fresh. They never go out of season. chah behind it. Your children should be vibrant like olives. He then noted how in this week’s par- We want our children to always be excited shah, Mikeitz, Yosef was freed from jail be- about Yiddishkeit. cause he did chesed in jail. He noticed that Rabbi Krohn shared a teaching of Rav the baker and butler looked despondent and Ovadia Yosef zt”l. “Madlikim sh’monah y’mei he asked them what was wrong. The pur- Chanukah” has the roshei teivos of mem, pose behind the question was that he cared shin, yud, and hei, which are the letters in about them. The fact that we can carry the Mashiach. burden for someone else helps. Rabbi Yedid As always, Rabbi Krohn shared magnifi - taught that going forward we should keep cent inspiring stories. Some are from his this idea in mind. new book, Illuminations of the Maggid. Opportunities of kindness help us build Rabbi Krohn taught that when you want our world and Hashem sends us His help in to do something good, Hashem will help the physical or spiritual realm when we per- you to accomplish it. Sometimes, this re- form acts of kindness. quires patience on our part. Rabbi Krohn He then shared the famous story of Rabbi then shared the introduction of the Meiri Akiva’s daughter who was supposedly des- to the fi rst masechta in Shas, Maseches tined to be bitten by a snake and die on her B’rachos. The Meiri teaches that a person

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 39 40 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 41 Community Corner • Recent Happenings Yom HaKaddish HaKlali Annual Asarah B’Teves Program At YIKGH By Susie Garber this living situation and as a young girl on The next lesson of the Holocaust is resil- her own in America she went to Brooklyn ience. Survivors like his bubby could over- his year’s Yom HaKaddish HaKlali College and earned a degree in languages. come whatever challenge they met. They Asarah B’Teves program took place Together with Rabbi Glatt’s zeidy, they built had resilience. He pointed out that educa- Ton Sunday evening, January 8, at the a family with almost 70 frum descendants. tors know that this is the most important Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills. The pro- Rabbi Glatt noted that his bubby lived and trait to pass on to their students. gram drew a large crowd of local rabbanim breathed the Holocaust. She told everyone The third lesson is unwavering emunah. and community members. stories about the Holocaust. Rabbi Glatt We learn the highest level of bitachon from Rabbi Stuart Verstandig welcomed eve- stated, “I was fortunate to hear those sto- Iyov (Job). Even if Hashem is going to kill ryone, and then everyone recited t’hilim on ries directly from my bubby. So, I can rep- me, I have emunah and love of Hashem. behalf of Rebbetzin Ruth Schonfeld, wife resent the fi rst generation. I heard those Rabbi Glatt stated, “Chesed, resilience, and of Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld, Rabbi Emeritus amazing and tragic stories from her. My unwavering emunah are the lessons that I, of the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills. children can’t hear these stories from her as a member of the third generation, hope Rabbi Verstandig then shared that Asarah directly.” She was nifteres this past summer. to impart from the fi rst generation to the B’Teves is set aside as a day to commemo- He said, “That is why I am here to represent fourth generation.” rate Holocaust victims whose yahrzeits are the fourth generation to connect them to He concluded that it is up to us to pass unknown. the fi rst generation.” on those lessons of the Holocaust to future Rabbi Ephraim Glatt, Esq., Assistant He went on to teach three important generations. Rabbi Nosson Scherman speaking at the Rabbi of the Young Israel of Kew Gardens lessons that he wants to impart to his chil- Following this, the audience viewed a Hills, spoke eloquently and from the heart dren. He shared that Howard Schultz, CEO stirring video clip produced by Mrs. Irene program as he shared the story of his own grand- of Starbucks, traveled to Israel with a group Russo. The progression of images portrayed mother. He fi rst thanked the sponsors of of businessmen and met with Rav Nosson the death and destruction of the Holocaust, raised him over the stars, He was explain- the evening: Mrs. Irene Russo and Mr. Sam Tzvi Finkel. Rav Nosson Tzvi asked the busi- which are so poignant that there are no ing that Avraham and Sarah would give Russo, Mr. Paul Hartsein and Mrs. Elaine nessmen, “Do you know the lesson of the words to match them. The Shira Chadasha birth, though the stars and laws of nature Hartstein, Rabbi Marc and Mrs. Debbie Holocaust?” Boys Choir music played in the background were against this. The idea is that B’nei Yis- Horowitz, and the Margaret Tietz Nursing He explained the lesson is that in every and added to the emotional impact of the rael are above the stars. This is the story of and Rehabilitation Center. His bubby Anna camp and bunker there was one blanket for short powerful video. klal Yisrael. According to the laws of eco- Glatt grew up a block away from Eli Wiesel. six people. The lesson is that no one pulled Next, Rabbi Nosson Scherman, noted nomics and warfare, we should be extermi- She had a happy childhood as the oldest of the blanket closer to himself. They pushed author and lecturer, and General Editor of nated or assimilated. Yet, we are still here. six children. The Nazis came and took 70 it towards the others. The chesed done in ArtScroll Mesorah Publications, delivered He noted that when he was growing up, members of her family to Auschwitz; she the Holocaust is a lesson of the Holocaust. a moving speech. He shared that he was you could count the number of yeshivos in was the sole survivor. She had one sister Rabbi Glatt shared that his grandmother a child in northern New Jersey during the the United States on two hands. Now look who almost made it through the war but lived this. She nursed her sister through the Holocaust. He recalled the year 1944, when what is happening. Now there are more died in his grandmother’s arms. His grand- war, and then when her sister died, she did he saw his parents listening to the radio yeshivos in Israel than there were before mother had one aunt living in America the last kindness of providing her with a and crying. They were just fi nding out that the war in Eastern Europe. It is a miracle. who was not religious. She ran away from marked burial spot. their families were wiped out. The United He then shared how the Ponevezher Rav States suppressed news about the Holo- bought a hill in Bnei Brak and laid the cor- caust during that time period. There was nerstone for the Ponevezher Yeshiva when only one article in The New York Times on the Jewish Agency in Yerushalayim was the front page about it. burning papers and evacuating. People told He shared stories about the Bluzhever him that he was a dreamer. He responded, Rebbe, Rav Yisroel Spira, who was a Holo- “I’m a dreamer but I’m wide awake.” caust survivor. The Bluzhever Rebbetzin Rabbi Scherman shared many mov- kept her two sons and her three nephews ing stories. He recalled that Rav Shimon with her in the slave labor camp. She trad- Schwab once said that the Jewish People ed her meager bread rations for a Tanach do not have a friend in the world. America so she could teach her sons and nephews is not an enemy, but America is not friend. Torah. At one point in the slave labor camp, He noted how true this is based on a recent the inmates could bake only a small num- speech by Secretary of State John Kerry ber of matzos. They decided to divide them that proved this point. among the adults as the children did not He concluded, “Let’s remember. Let’s have an obligation to eat matzah. This reb- never forget, not because of vengeance. betzin objected and said, “The children are Those people, their heroism and simple the future. They should eat the matzah.” faith, and desire to love children, and to She convinced everyone to follow her carry on, should inspire us to live.” opinion. The program concluded with Rabbi Sh- Rabbi Scherman shared a fascinating lomo Horowitz leading the recitation of idea about Avraham Avinu. When Hashem Keil Malei Rachamim and then Kaddish. Meng Applauds Passage Of House Resolution That Denounces U.N. Vote On Israel Congresswoman was original cosponsor of the measure .S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY), a clear that the House denounces the U.N. member of the House Foreign resolution, and continues to stand in soli- UAffairs Committee and its Sub- darity with our dear friend and ally. We committee on the Middle East, last week must have Israel’s back, and I will con- applauded the passage of a House resolu- tinue to oppose future anti-Israel reso- tion (H. Res.11) that condemns the recent lutions at the U.N. The common goal of United Nations vote on Israel. two states living side-by-side in peace and “After the appalling vote at the U.N., it security will only be achieved from direct is critical for Congress to reaffi rm its sup- negotiations between the two parties.” port for Israel, and that is exactly what The resolution passed 342 to 80. Meng the House did today,” said Meng. “The was an original cosponsor of the meas- passage of this measure says loud and ure.

42 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Shua Katz is a Queens-based photographer who currently works Community Snapshots for the Queens Jewish Link and is a photographer at Yaakov Katz Studios. Photo Credits: Shua Katz Mir Yerushalayim reception at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Reuven Fisher - Thursday night, January 5, Kew Gardens Hills

Chazak Day Camp Reunion at Yeshiva Ohr Hachaim - Motzaei Shabbos, January 7, Kew Gardens Hills

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 43 Community Corner • Recent Happenings Midreshet HANC Chanukah Reunion

his past October, Midreshet HANC and delightful Chanukah gathering hosted was launched under the direction of by the Menahel, Rabbi Shlomo Adelman, Tthe beloved m’chaneches and Assis- and his wife Chany in their home. This tant Director of Israel guidance, Mrs. Linda event drew close to 40 HANC young wom- Nathan. The goal of this program has been en. to provide a venue for the graduates of This is a testament to the strong bond classes of 2014 and 2015 to reconnect with that students still feel towards their reb- HANC and the Torah learning they experi- beim, moros, and administrators, as well as enced while in high school. the desire to remain connected. Students Currently, these alumni convene every were treated to sushi, doughnuts, and a Thursday evening at 8:30 p.m. to enjoy a wonderful Chanukah shiur given by Rabbi shiur on a timely topic, followed by tradi- Yisroel Weingot. It was beautiful to see the tional Thursday evening, Erev Shabbos re- strong bond that still exists between alum- freshments. Inspired by delicious helpings nae and their teachers. of cholent, kishke, and other delicacies, Shabbos invitations were extended and these gathering are fi lled with Torah discus- many made plans to follow up and con- sion, laughter, and schmoozing. tinue to attend Midreshet HANC programs. The inaugural semester of Torah classes Looking forward to Semester II of Midresh- culminated with an inspiring, invigorating, et HANC! SKA Faces The Future: Career Day

igh schoolers aren’t usually given three different sessions from a broad the opportunity to evaluate career range of choices, with each session host- Hchoices during their teen years, ing female professionals working in the but the Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors discipline they selected. Seminars on “A of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Jew in the Workplace: A Halachic Perspec- Girls were more fortunate! At SKA’s Career tive,” “Internships and Career Opportu- Day, held on Monday, January 2, students nities” and “Making a First Impression,” heard accomplished mothers and alum- were very informative and of much inter- nae showcase the work they do, giving est. girls the ability to learn about different We were honored to host Ms. Chizhik- professions and gain an understanding of Goldsmidt, Rabbi David Cohen, Mrs. what it means to be an Orthodox Jewish Marjorie Kellner, Mrs. Sarah Hofstetter, woman in today’s workplace. Mrs. Natasha Srulowitz, Mrs. Adele Dubin The keynote speaker, Ms. Avital and all the other professionals who gave Chizhik-Goldschmidt, a noted journalist, up their free time to and contributed to spoke of fi nding her passion as a writer. making SKA’s Career Day so productive. The student audience was fascinated as Our thanks and appreciation go to Ms. Ms. Chizuk-Goldschmidt recounted her Raizi Chechik, SKA Principal, and our par- early years as an undergraduate and how ent volunteers: Chairperson Mrs. Rachel she was determined to write, while hold- Laufer, Mrs. Autumn Mael, Mrs. Deborah ing on to her religious identity. Rockoff, and Mrs. Ariella Zuller for organ- The students were then able to select izing this very enlightening program.

44 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Community Corner • Recent Happenings Bnos Malka Hosts Intergeneration Day By Nechama Strauss The girls interviewed their rela- tives to fi nd out what school was onday was a special day like when they attended, who in Bnos Malka – not be- their favorite teacher was and Mcause it was the begin- maybe even bond over the fact ning of the week, or the month, that they share a favorite subject. or the secular New Year – but be- At the family tree station, the girls cause it was intergeneration day constructed a tri-generational at Bnos Malka. Intergeneration family tree going back as far as day is a unique program where they could with their relatives’ we invite the parents, grandpar- help to understand where they ents, aunts, and uncles of our came from. The next workshop third and fourth grade classes to included decorating a “T shirt” our school. Omas, Opas, Sabas, together and, lastly and most de- Savtas, Zeidys, and Bubbies came liciously, the students and – well, to Bnos Malka as we opened our mostly the students – decorated a doors and had a wonderful morn- brownie. The event also included ing together; the students and a photo booth where each family relatives rotated through four dif- posed for a picture that will be ferent stations working on differ- sent home as a memento of this ent projects. exciting day. The program con- The day began with warm cluded with pizza for the students words of welcome by Rabbi and a light lunch for the adults. Weichselbaum who stressed the The stations and activities were important role parents and grand- carefully prepared to help ensure parents play in children’s educa- that not only did everyone have a tion today, and that we have to wonderful time, but to help foster be mindful of how vital it is for and build a bond between genera- the students to see that a yeshivah tions, and to show the students education is a top priority. that learning never ends. Many people and family members were at Bnos Malka are incorporating This was a day enjoyed by all, and Then, together, the students participants commented on the able to join us and see how ex- mindfulness into our curriculum. we know it enhanced the lives and their relatives worked on the fact that they would have loved cited the girls are about learning This type of nachas is something of our greater Bnos Malka family projects that were designed to en- having a day like this when they in Bnos Malka. Everyone was able we love to share; the girls had while creating memories our stu- able our students to learn from were in school. to see our hands-on and warm ap- fun and learned about their own dents will remember fondly for and about the older generation. We are thankful that so many proach to education and how we personal history at the same time. years to come

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 45 Community Corner • What’s New In School Mommies And Sons Enjoy Time Together At YTM Kindergarten

n Monday morning, January 2, Yeshiva Tiferes gether for informal gatherings, it creates sheves achim. dels, made stick menorahs, and played with the exciting Moshe’s Kindergarten mothers got to spend time Rabbi Bookson then spoke about the Yeshiva’s concern for school toys together with their boys. Omeeting each other and then had an opportunity to every child and welcomed mothers to always make contact Everyone enjoyed the opportunity to meet the Admin- do projects and play with their sons in the classroom. with the principals throughout their child’s elementary istration, the moros, the mommies, and the quality time The morning opened with a beautiful breakfast for Kin- school years. After spending time schmoozing with their spent in their son’s classroom. A great time was had by all; dergarten mothers with the Tiferes Moshe administration. son’s classmates’ mothers, the breakfast fi nished up and and despite the fact that all of the mommies had much to Rabbi Yaakov May welcomed the mothers and mentioned the mommies continued their morning in the classroom. do on their day off, it was diffi cult for the crowd to part that the Nesivos Shalom wrote that when people join to- Mothers painted boxes, decorated doughnuts, colored drei- ways with the good times of the classroom. HANC Middle School School-Wide Spelling Bee ANC Middle School held their school-wide bee on Wednesday, January 4. Each class could have two class fi nalists. They were Avi Brandler, Jaden Etienne, Jessica HHaynes, Grace Herschberg, Jesse Kramer, Rena Max, Liana Schwartz, Mor Sharoni, and Moshe Wieder. They all spelled so many words correctly. They continued on, round after round, until they were fi nally down to two. Congratulations to the HANC MS champion, Rena Max, and the runner-up, Avi Brandler. Rena will represent HANC MS at the Long Island Spelling Bee Companionship at Hofstra in February. Everyone at HANC MS is so proud of all the spellers. What a great job they did! Educator From Museum Of Art Visits YCQ, And Grade 2 Visits Alley Pond Environmental Center he Grade 6 students at the Yeshiva of Central Queens had a visit from Elana Kaplan, Educator at the Met- Tropolitan Museum of Art’s “Mummies and Master- pieces” program. She showed the students a slide show of artifacts that are displayed at the Museum in the Ancient Egypt exhibit that coincides with what they are learning in class. The students got to see what life was like in ancient Egypt, as Mrs. Kaplan connected the artifacts to Chumash and Tanach and was able to answer the students’ questions. Following the demonstration, students were given clay to work on their own artifact replica carving boats, sphinxes, The Grade 2 students went on a trip to Alley Pond Environ- trip was when I found out that if you look for animal foot- and hieroglyphics. Jonathan Ivraghimov, Grade 6, said, “My mental Center in Douglaston to participate in the program, prints and follow them, you can sometimes fi nd where the favorite part was carving my name in clay using hieroglyph- Animal Clues. The students learned more about animals and animal is hibernating.” There was a nature hike and a visit ics,” and Matthew Hayimov found “the slide show to be in- their habitats and how they adapt to those habitats, specifi - with rabbits, turtles, and doves that the students were able teresting and educational at the same time.” The hands-on cally in the winter. They discussed hibernation and learned to pet. This trip enhanced the learning experience by rein- experience reinforced the material learned in class, bringing what clues to look for that show an animal once dwelled in forcing what the students have learned this year in science history alive, encouraging students to be more engaged, and this habitat, such as feathers, footprints, nests, and burrows. about different animal groups, their habitats, and how they created an interactive learning environment. Eitan Mullakandov, Grade 2, said, “My favorite part of the adapt to their homes. Yom Central ith record numbers of applicants for the Class of 2021, Yeshiva University High School for Girls is Wmore popular than ever! Over 140 girls from 23 el- ementary schools from all over the Tri-State Area attended our annual Yom Central for a taste of the creativity, academ- ic rigor, and communal warmth for which Central is known. Our guests joined us bright and early for a meaningful davening before a delicious breakfast and a warm welcome from Head of School CB Neugroschl and Director of Admis- sions Aliza Gewirtz. They enjoyed a number of lessons by our esteemed faculty, hailing from disciplines ranging from history to engineering to Navi. Our current students were gracious as always, greeting our visitors with smiles and helpful advice. Says Mrs. Gewirtz, “The new applicants are wonderful girls, and we are so excited to have them join us for a day!”

46 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Community Corner • Feature Story Torah In The City: OU To Hold One-Of-A-Kind Day Of Learning Indoors At Citi Field Local rabbis among impressive lineup of speakers

By Sergey Kadinsky Yosef Zvi Rimon. rooms. With the winter in mind, the event’s Free parking and kosher food will be unique gathering will take place organizers are reminding the public that available. There will be children’s program- on Sunday, January 15, when the while the venue is Citi Field, it will take ming for ages 1-5 and 6-10. Pre-registration AOrthodox Union will hold Torah place indoors in the stadium’s conference is required. Register at ou.org/citi. in the City, a day of lectures at Citi Field given by leading voices within centrist Or- thodoxy. The event will address halachah as it relates to current events in matters such as conversion, aliyah, and family planning, as well as matters of spirituali- ty including davening for Medinat Yisrael, balancing Torah study with one’s obliga- tions, among other topics. “This is where the best and brightest of Torah Judaism will share their views Rabbi Ilan Meirov on the future of Orthodox Jewry through important dialogue on issues of the day,” said OU Executive Vice President Allen Fagin. “This is not to be missed by any- one who wants to be part of the conver- sation that shapes our future.” The event will kick off at 8:45 in the morning with a daf yomi, given by Rabbi Shalom Rosner, and will conclude with Maariv at 6:15 in the evening. In between, the plethora of speakers includes OU poskim, roshei ye- shivah, pulpit rabbis, rebbetzins, mashgi- chim, a chazan, and a journalist. The honor of having such a compre- hensive and encompassing event in Queens is enhanced by the presence of Rabbi Menachem Penner speakers based in the borough. Among them are Rabbi Menachem Penner of the Young Israel of Holliswood, Rabbi Yona- son Sacks of Lander College for Men/Beis Medrash L’Talmud, and Chazaq founder Rabbi Ilan Meirov. “I will be speaking about the value of learning Tanach,” said Rabbi Penner. “The Navi Elisha was in the shadow of his rebbe. He teaches us a lot about being a student and a leader your- self.” In its statement ahead of the event, the OU noted that Rabbi Meirov’s presence is in recognition of his synagogue, Congre- gation Beth Gavriel, which was recently affi liated with the OU, and the role of Chazaq in strengthening religious obser- Rabbi Yonason Sacks vance among Bukharian Jews. “Chazaq is known for offering many programs grams, and synagogue business develop- and services that our entire community ment, among others.” benefi ts from. It was only natural to get Another speaker with ties to Chaz- one of our partnering synagogues, Beth aq is Charlie Harary, who was raised in Gavriel, to join the OU and to help them Queens. His topic will be “The Effi cacy of devise topics and secure great rabbis and Jewish Prayer.” speakers from around the world for its As Israel is very much in the prayers of Day of Torah,” said his brother and Chaz- many in Queens, and a central feature of aq cofounder Yaniv Meirov. “In turn, we OU’s advocacy, two of its speakers fl own all benefi t from the OU’s many services, in from Israel will speak on the Army and including guidance for educational pro- aliyah: Rabbi Shalom Rosner and Rabbi

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 47 48 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 49 Daf Yomi Classes Mincha Minyan List

SUNDAY 5:40 am Degel Israel(Shein- 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH SUNDAY 4:00 pm • Chazaq 141-24 Grocery 82-38 Lefferts 6:00 am Young Israel of Kew feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 6:05 am Congregation Nacha- 12:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Jewel Avenue, KGH Blvd,Kew Gardens Gardens Hills, Youth Build- KGH las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 4:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 2:00 pm • Jewish Heri- ing Library 150-05 70th 6:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), 39 73rd Avenue, KGH KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, tage Center 68-20 Main Road, KGH 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH 7:45 am Congregation Nacha- 1:00 pm • Rabbi Rubin’s KGH Street, KGH 6:55 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 6:15 am Congregation Nachalas las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- shul 70-03 147th Street, 2:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 73rd Avenue, KGH Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141-39 39 73rd Avenue, KGH KGH TUESDAY Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 7:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), 73rd Avenue, KGH 9:00 am Queens Jewish Center, 1:30 pm • Ahavas Yisroel 12:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser KGH 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH 7:45 am Congregation Nacha- 66-05 108th Street, Forest 147-02 73rd Avenue, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 2:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 7:00 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Hills KGH KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, YCQ Junior High School 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 8:00 pm Congregation Nacha- 1:30 pm • Yeshiva Ohel 12:55pm • Yeshiva Madrei- KGH Building(150th St nr 70th 9:00 am Queens Jewish Center, las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Simcha 141-41 72nd Ave- gas HaAdam 165-14 69th 3:30 pm • Gift World 72- 20 Rd), KGH 66-05 108th Street, Forest 39 73rd Avenue, KGH nue, KGH Ave, Hillcrest Main Street, KGH 7:10 am Degel Israel(Sheinfeld), Hills 8:00 pm Agudath Israel of Kew 1:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:00 pm • Rabbi Rubin’s 3:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 144-02 68th Drive, KGH 8:00 pm Congregation Nacha- Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, shul 70-03 147th Street, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 7:30 am Congregation Nacha- las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Road (YCQ Building), 1st KGH KGH KGH las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- 39 73rd Avenue, KGH fl oor, KGH 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena 1:30 pm • Ahavas Yisroel 4:00 pm • Chazaq 141-24 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 8:00 pm Agudath Israel of Kew 8:00 pm Young Israel of 8:45 am Agudath Israel of Kew Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th Queens Valley, 141-55 77th Farms 72-15 Kissena 147-02 73rd Avenue, Jewel Avenue, KGH Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th Road (YCQ Building), 1st Avenue, KGH Boulevard, KGH KGH 4:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Road (YCQ Building), 1st fl oor, KGH 8:30 pm Degel Israel(Shein- 1:45pm • Rosenblum’s Gro- 1:30 pm • Yeshiva Ohel Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, fl oor, KGH 8:00 pm Young Israel of feld), 144-02 68th Drive, cery 82-38 Lefferts Blvd, Simcha 141-41 72nd Ave- KGH 8:00 pm Young Israel of Queens Valley, 141-55 77th KGH Kew Gardens nue, KGH Queens Valley, 141-55 77th Avenue, KGH 2:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser THURSDAY Avenue, KGH 8:30 pm Degel Israel(Shein- FRIDAY Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 12:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 8:30 pm Degel Israel(Shein- feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 5:30 am Young Israel of Kew KGH KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, feld), 144-02 68th Drive, KGH Gardens Hills, Youth Build- 2:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena KGH KGH ing Library 150-05 70th Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Farms 72-15 Kissena 12:55pm • Yeshiva Madrei- 9:30 am Queens Jewish Center, WEDNESDAY Road, KGH KGH Boulevard, KGH gas HaAdam 165-14 69th 66-05 108th Street, Forest 5:30 am Young Israel of Kew 5:30 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 3:30 pm • Gift World 72- 20 1:45 pm • Seasons 66-18 Ave, Hillcrest Hills Gardens Hills, Youth Build- 73rd Avenue, KGH Main Street, KGH Main Street, KGH 1:00 pm • Rabbi Rubin’s ing Library 150-05 70th 5:40 am Degel Israel(Shein- 3:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:45pm • Rosenblum’s shul 70-03 147th Street, MONDAY Road, KGH feld), 144-02 68th Drive, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Grocery 82-38 Lefferts KGH 5:30 am Young Israel of Kew 5:30 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 KGH KGH Blvd,Kew Garden 1:30 pm • Ahavas Yisroel Gardens Hills, Youth Build- 73rd Avenue, KGH 5:30 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, 4:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 2:00 pm • Jewish Heri- 147-02 73rd Avenue, KGH ing Library 150-05 70th 5:30 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, YCQ Junior High School Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, tage Center 68-20 Main 1:30 pm • Yeshiva Ohel Road, KGH YCQ Junior High School Building(150th St nr 70th KGH Street, KGH Simcha 141-41 72nd Ave- 5:30 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 Building(150th St nr 70th Rd), KGH 2:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser nue, KGH 73rd Avenue, KGH Rd), KGH 6:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), MONDAY Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 1:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 5:30 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, 5:40 am Degel Israel(Shein- 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH YCQ Junior High School feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 6:15 am Congregation Nachalas 12:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Building(150th St nr 70th KGH Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141-39 Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 2:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser KGH Rd), KGH 6:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), 73rd Avenue, KGH KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena 5:40 am Degel Israel(Shein- 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH 7:45 am Congregation Nacha- 12:55pm • Yeshiva Madrei- KGH Farms 72-15 Kissena feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 6:15 am Congregation Nachalas las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- gas HaAdam 165-14 69th 3:30 pm • Gift World 72- 20 Boulevard, KGH KGH Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141-39 39 73rd Avenue, KGH Ave, Hillcrest Main Street, KGH 1:45 pm • Seasons 66-18 6:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), 73rd Avenue, KGH 9:00 am Queens Jewish Center, 1:00 pm • Rabbi Rubin’s 3:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Main Street, KGH 137-58 70th Avenue, KGH 7:45 am Congregation Nacha- 66-05 108th Street, Forest shul 70-03 147th Street, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 1:45pm • Rosenblum’s 6:05 am Congregation Nacha- las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Hills KGH KGH Grocery 82-38 Lefferts las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 8:00 pm Agudath Israel of Kew 1:30 pm • Ahavas Yisroel 4:00 pm • Chazaq 141-24 Blvd,Kew Gardens 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 9:00 am Queens Jewish Center, Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th 147-02 73rd Avenue, Jewel Avenue, KGH 2:00 pm • Jewish Heri- 7:45 am Congregation Nacha- 66-05 108th Street, Forest Road (YCQ Building), 1st KGH 4:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser tage Center 68-20 Main las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Hills fl oor, KGH 1:30 pm • Yeshiva Ohel Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Street, KGH 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 8:00 pm Congregation Nacha- Simcha 141-41 72nd Ave- KGH 2:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 9:00 am Queens Jewish Center, las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- SHABBOS nue, KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 66-05 108th Street, Forest 39 73rd Avenue, KGH 7:25 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 1:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser WEDNESDAY KGH Hills 8:00 pm Agudath Israel of Kew 73rd Avenue, KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 12:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 2:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 8:00 pm Congregation Nacha- Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th 7:45 am Young Israel of Kew KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, las Yitzchak (Oelbaum), 141- Road (YCQ Building), 1st Gardens Hills, Youth 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena KGH KGH 39 73rd Avenue, KGH fl oor, KGH Building Library 150-05 Farms 72-15 Kissena 12:45 pm • Ahavas Yisroel 3:30 pm • Gift World 72- 20 8:00 pm Agudath Israel of Kew 8:00 pm Young Israel of 70th Road, KGH Boulevard, KGH 147-02 73rd Avenue, Main Street, KGH Gardens Hills, 147-37 70th Queens Valley, 141-55 77th 7:50 am Degel Israel(Shein- Road (YCQ Building), 1st Avenue, KGH feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 1:45 pm • Seasons 66-18 KGH 3:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser fl oor, KGH 8:30 pm Degel Israel(Shein- KGH Main Street, KGH 12:55pm • Yeshiva Madrei- Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, 8:00 pm Young Israel of feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 8:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Ari- 1:45pm • Rosenblum’s Gro- gas HaAdam 165-14 69th KGH Queens Valley, 141-55 77th KGH eli), 137-58 70th Avenue, cery 82-38 Lefferts Blvd, Ave, Hillcrest 4:00 pm • Chazaq 141-24 Avenue, KGH KGH Kew Gardens 1:00 pm • Rabbi Rubin’s Jewel Avenue, KGH 8:30 pm Degel Israel(Shein- THURSDAY 1 hr before mincha Congre- 2:00 pm • Jewish Heri- shul 70-03 147th Street, 4:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser feld), 144-02 68th Drive, 5:30 am Young Israel of Kew gation Nachalas Yitzchak tage Center 68-20 Main KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, KGH Gardens Hills, Youth Build- (Oelbaum), 141-39 73rd Av- Street, KGH 1:30 pm • Yeshiva Ohel KGH ing Library 150-05 70th enue, KGH 2:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Simcha 141-41 72nd Ave- TUESDAY Road, KGH 1 hr before mincha Agudath Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, nue, KGH FRIDAY 5:30 am Young Israel of Kew 5:30 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 Israel of Kew Gardens KGH 1:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:15 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Gardens Hills, Youth Build- 73rd Avenue, KGH Hills, 147-37 70th Road, 1st 2:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, ing Library 150-05 70th 5:30 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, fl oor, KGH Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, KGH KGH Road, KGH YCQ Junior High School 1 hr before mincha Degel KGH 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena 1:45 pm • Aron’s Kissena 5:30 am Ahavas Yisroel,147-02 Building(150th St nr 70th Israel(Sheinfeld), 144-02 3:30 pm • Gift World 72- 20 Farms 72-15 Kissena Farms 72-15 Kissena 73rd Avenue, KGH Rd), KGH 68th Drive, KGH Main Street, KGH Boulevard, KGH Boulevard, KGH 5:30 am Kehilas Ishei Yisrael, 5:40 am Degel Israel(Shein- 40 min before mincha Ke- 3:45 pm • Yeshiva Kesser 1:45 pm • Seasons 66-18 1:45pm • Rosenblum’s Gro- YCQ Junior High School feld), 144-02 68th Drive, hilas Ishei Yisrael, YCQ Ju- Torah 72-11 Vleigh Place, Main Street, KGH cery 82-38 Lefferts Blvd, Building(150th St nr 70th KGH nior High School Building KGH 1:45 pm • Rosenblum’s Kew Gardens Rd), KGH 6:00 am Ohel Yitzchok (Arieli), (150th St nr 70th Rd), KGH

SPONSORED BY SHIMON’S KOSHER PIZZERIA VAAD HARABONIM OF QUEENS 71-24 MAIN STREET • KEW GARDENS HILLS • 718 793-1491

50 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 TO ADD YOUR EVENT TO OUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR, PLEASE EMAIL THE EVENT, Community Calendar DATE/TIME, PLACE, AND A BRIEF DESCRIPTION TO: [email protected] Compiled by Rebecca Wittert THE CALENDAR FOR ALL EVENTS IN QUEENS a meaningful conversation about Halachah, j^[^ec[e\:h$Chi$CWhYI_bl[hcWd-)# JANUARY 2017 JWdWY^" >Wi^aW\W^" WdZ ?ihW[b$ 7jj[dZ[[i Wh[ &)'),j^Ijh[[j"A[m=WhZ[di>_bbi $ MAY 2017 welcome to attend any part or the entire event. NASCK (National As- Admittance $18 before December 16; $25 De- I^[lWY^ >_]^ NORPAC will hold sociation of Chevra cember 16-January 12; $36 day of event. Free IY^eebm_bb^ebZ_ji its annual mission Kadisha) will hold its parking. Kosher food is available for purchase. annual dinner. De- to Washington. annual TEAM (Tradi- Please register at ou.org/citi. tails to follow. Meet directly with tional End-of-Life members of Con- Sunday Shabbos 14 Awareness Move- Dirshu will hold a 26 10 gress and their staff ment) Shabbos. For I^WXXei 9^_pka Wednesday to make a true im- more information, please call 718-847-6280 or BÊBecZ[_ JehW^ at pact. Round-trip transportation to Wash- l_i_jmmm$J;7Ci^WXXei$eh]$ j^[ IjWc\ehZ 9ed- ington, DC with Glatt Kosher meals in- corde Plaza. Details

Friday YbkZ[Z$ 7Zkbji '(+" IjkZ[dji -+$ Fb[Wi[ At 8:25 p.m., Yeshiva Kesser Torah will 20 to follow. MARCH 2017 register at DEHF79$d[j or call 201-788-5133. hold its 32nd Annual Journal M’laveh Mal- kah Wj j^[ Oekd] ?ihW[b e\ A[m =WhZ[di Motzaei Shabbos 4 >_bbi$>edeh_d]:h$FWkbChi$:hehW8he- At 8:30 p.m., the ZoWdZOWd_lB[ehWC[_hel$=k[ijif[Wa- FEBRUARY 2017 Young Israel of Ja- Due to the fire at Vleigh place [hHWXX_I^ck[bCWhYki$C[dWdZmec[d maica Estates will are welcome. Admission by contribution; Bnos Malka Acade- hold its 38th annu- $100 per person suggested. For reserva-

Shabbos my will hold its an- 4 al journal dinner at Eliyahus Barbershop tions, please contact 718-793-2890 or - o[i^_ nual dinner. Details the Old Westbury has temporarily moved to Men’s famous lWa[ii[hjehW^6]cW_b$Yec$ to follow. Hebrew Congrega- Barber shop j_ed$>edeh_d]B[ddoBe_i8hW\cWdWdZ which is located on From 8:45 a.m. to 6:15 Monday 6 7ZWcH_laoEhbem$ p.m., the Orthodox 72-60 main street Union will hold “To- At 8:30 p.m., P’eylim/ O[i^_lW e\ 9[djhWb at the same block rah in the Citi,” a full- Lev L’Achim will Queens will hold as the movie theater and day Torah program for hold a community its 76th annual din-

Sunday Benji pizza . 15 both men and women reception welcom- d[h Wj j^[ IWdZi$ _dZeehi Wj D[m OehaÊi ing Maran HaGaon Details to follow. Sunday 9_j_ <_[bZ$ J^[ [l[dj m_bb \[Wjkh[ h[fh[i[djW- Tuesday 21 >WHWl I^ck[b AW- 26 For more info or direction tives from all walks of Orthodox Jewish life for menetsky shlit”a, at call Benny at

Your business can sponsor the QJL Community Calendar. 718-666-8190 Please contact Yaakov at 718-880-2622 or e-mail [email protected]

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 51 Preserving The Family Home: Is Your Home At Risk?

By Monet Binder Medicaid will be the method of payment, your home is to create a trust, specifi cally tle of the family home could be transferred transferring ownership or adding names to designed to shelter the property, so you can to Rachel. In this instance, if Rachel could s it possible to protect the family home the deed will be considered a gift. Medicaid set it aside for your loved ones. When the no longer provide the level of care necessary, if a loved one needs long-term care in has a fi ve-year review period, in which it home is placed into the trust, the trust be- and Sophie would need to enter into a nurs- Ia nursing facility? If you are like most considers all gifts you made, to determine comes the owner of the property. Transfer- ing home, Sophie would immediately qualify of us, you want to preserve your assets, whether Medicaid will cover the cost of ring property to this special lifetime protec- for Medicaid, and the home would remain in which you have worked a lifetime to ac- nursing home care. tion trust is also considered a gift, so it is the family and not subject to Medicaid estate quire, and pass them on to the people who A better option could be to remove your important, when planning, to be confi dent recovery. matter most. A home is typically one of the names entirely from the deed, if you are that the transfer is made fi ve years prior to Can the family home be protected if a most valuable assets you have. You prob- young and healthy enough, where it is un- the possibility of needing nursing home married couple owns the property jointly ably would prefer to either keep your home likely there would be a need for nursing care. Choosing someone you trust to act as a (which is usually the case)? When a couple in the family by passing it along to one or home care for fi ve years. The question then trustee, who would be responsible for man- owns a home together and one is admitted more family members, or sell it, distributing becomes: What should you do once your aging the assets in the trust, which would be to a nursing home, the spouse of the nurs- the proceeds to your own children and/or name is removed from the deed? distributed according to your wishes when ing home resident should not have to sell grandchildren. As with any valuable asset, transferring you are no longer here, is an essential part the house to pay for the nursing home care. If you haven’t taken steps to protect your the property to a child or another individual of planning. If the ultimate goal is to preserve the home, assets from the high cost of long-term care, is risky. You need to be confi dent that the There are a few situations where an older it is generally not advisable for the nursing you may fi nd yourself in a position of hav- person receiving your assets won’t abscond person can give the home to another indi- home resident to remain as a joint tenant ing to spend all of your money, or spending on the deed. Rather, deeding the home to your money, to then qualify for Medicaid, the well spouse is preferable and provides to cover the cost of your care. Here in New Here in New York City, the average cost of long-term care for more planning options. York City, the average cost of long-term care in a nursing home is a staggering $12,000 per month, If the home is jointly owned and the in a nursing home is a staggering $12,000 nursing home spouse outlives the spouse re- per month, over $140,000 per year. In order over $140,000 per year maining home, the situation could become to recoup the expenses paid on your behalf complicated. Here, when the nursing home for nursing home care, you may be forced to or use the assets for his or her own purpos- vidual without compromising Medicaid el- resident eventually passes away, the home sell your home or lose it through Medicaid es, which may be contrary to your wishes. igibility, if it’s needed to pay for long-term will become a probate asset. At that time, estate recovery, whereby Medicaid places a Also, if anything happens to the recipient of care. Current regulations allow home own- Medicaid will place a lien against the home, lien on the home upon your death to recov- your gift, any creditor or claimant will not ership to be transferred to a minor, blind, or in order to recoup the funds that were paid er the amount expended for your care. care that the asset really doesn’t belong to disabled child without any strings attached. for the nursing home resident’s care, the The good news is that, by planning ear- your gift recipient at this point, or that the With particular restrictions, the home may amount of which often exceeds the entire ly and making good choices, you can keep asset, even your family home, was placed also be transferred to a family caregiver. Un- value of the home. A similar situation exists your home in the family. Some people be- in the recipient’s name for someone else’s der these circumstances, the older person for a single individual, who retains sole own- lieve that if they deed and transfer title of safekeeping. Consider the following hypo- who owns the home must have required the ership of a home, moves to a nursing home, their home to their children, or if they add thetical: aid of a care-giving child or sibling in order and is eligible to receive Medicaid benefi ts. their children’s name to their deed, they can Harold, recently widowed, gifted his home to remain in the home for a period of time By planning in advance, you can have automatically pass on the ownership of the to his son Sam. If Sam was in a car accident prior to moving to a nursing home. more choices and protect what is most property to their children after they pass and the cost of care for injuries sustained Here in New York, if certain family mem- important to you and your family. Various away. This may or may not be true. from the collision exceeded what the insur- bers have resided with a frail homeowner, strategies and powerful planning tools can If you consider the statistics, you will ance company provided, the family home, providing a signifi cant level of care to the be utilized to: preserve the family home; fi nd they prove the likelihood of a health- and any other valuable assets transferred to older person, who otherwise would have preserve other valuable personal or real care crisis is very great and the odds increase Sam, could be used as resources to pay for the required institutional care, then the caregiv- property; help your family manage various the older you get. If you, or both you and cost that Sam’s insurance did not cover. er is eligible to receive the house free and assets; and cover the costs of long-term care, your spouse, require nursing home care and Most often, the safest way to protect clear. In the case of a child, they would need should the need arise. Individual goals and to provide one year of care, and two years circumstances will infl uence the types of would be necessary for a sibling to qualify strategies that can be utilized. Due to the for this gift. Documentation is required to extent and variety of regulations, which prove the amount of care provided, the ex- govern these strategies, the advice and as- tent of which varies, depending on the situ- sistance of an elder law attorney is recom- ation. By way of example: mended in order for a family to receive the Sophie was a widow who was becoming maximum benefi t of a plan and avoid po- more fragile as time went on, and less able to tential costly mistakes. care for herself independently. Her daughter * * * Rachel lived out of town, but decided to move The information in this article is intend- back home, bringing her family with her, to ed solely for your information. It does not care for Sophie. After one year of providing constitute legal advice, and it should not be the necessary care for her mother, which relied on without a discussion of your spe- would keep Sophie out of a nursing home, ti- cifi c situation with an attorney.

Monet Binder, Esq., has a practice in Queens, New York, dedicated to protecting families, their legacies, and values. All halachic documents are approved by the BAIS HAVAAD HALACHA CENT- ER in Lakewood, under the direction of Rabbi Dovid Grossman and the guidance of HaRav Shmu- el Kamenetsky shlita, as well as other leading halachic authorities. She can be reached at monet@ mbinderlaw.com or call 718-514-7575.

52 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 A Good Friend Walks In… Part II By Michelle Gruber me once after shivah to ask ‘How are things?’ I wanted to tell him that I felt my do not consider myself the one who life was over, but didn’t. Now he preach- stands for those who have no voice. es to us to treat each other well and be II don’t have a soapbox I take out of kind… He should lead by example… But I the closet to set up on a street corner to agree with what you wrote, ‘Where is the preach and yell at others. Yes, I write a bein adam l’chavero?’” weekly dating column and speak about I received a few other emails from wid- how unfair the shidduch system can be ows/widowers complaining that they feel for some. I say what needs to be said and that the rabbanim of their shuls should what needs to be heard. The feedback be doing more to help them and to invite has been overwhelmingly supportive. them for Shabbos meals when they are Both singles and their parents thank me alone. Again, I am just echoing what was for writing “how it really is.” Even while sent to me. This is what those in the situ- I was in the dating parshah I was speak- ations are feeling. ing up and out about what wasn’t fair or One read, “I am still shell-shocked. It’s what didn’t seem right. I wasn’t raised to been over a year and I’m barely living. I sit idly by and let issues/events pass, and hardly go out, except to my children and not speak up about it if I feel something is to run errands. I hardly feel like smiling or unfair. That is how I came to write the col- even making small talk with people in the those who said that their friends may not thanked klal Yisrael for their t’fi los. Thou- umn that appeared a couple of weeks ago, shul who casually ask, ‘How’s it going?’ I even realize what they are going through sands of strangers davened/learned/kept “A Good Friend Walks In…But When?” re- never thought this would happen to me. I because they never had to deal with los- an hour of shmiras halashon in the z’chus garding what people are saying to avelim was always very outgoing and social, but ing a spouse, “but what about just being of a refuah for someone they didn’t know. while they are visiting them during shiv- now without my wife, I’m lost. My friends a friend?” Again, please don’t think I am “Mi ka’amcha Yisrael” was a quote I used ah. These people think they offer words haven’t made any real effort. I know that writing to chastise anyone in particular, throughout the article. My sister’s commu- of nechamah and comfort to the mourn- our wives spoke on the phone at least but unfortunately I am writing from my nity (Baltimore) and other communities ers, but at times their words are causing once a week, but now that I don’t have a own familial experience and from what around the world did all they were able pain to the avel. In that same article, I wife, the calls have stopped. The wives, people have told/ written to me about to in order to save her life! How true it is: wrote about what I have seen with my who I have also been friends with just as their own experiences. I want to look at Mi ka’amcha Yisrael! I fully believe that we own eyes and ears and have heard from I have been friends with their husbands, some of my parents’ friends and tell them as frum Yidden go out of our way to help others of what happens after shivah and don’t even call for 30 seconds to check in what I really feel, but then what? Will those in need. I wanted to thank klal Yisra- shloshim conclude and the spouse of the to see how I am doing. I feel like I have they call my father once or twice? If they el, and my family knows that it is because deceased is left to pick up the pieces of ceased to exist with them. I just don’t do, it will be because I forced them to, not of the actions and t’fi los of Yidden across their life. Many times they are left alone, have it in me to start making new friends because they wanted to – because if they the globe that my sister made a complete without their longtime friends to help at my age. I just can’t do it anymore.” wanted to they had over a year to do so! I recovery. Yet, there were people who lived them get over this diffi cult time. I can’t I also received emails that touched my am not alone in that feeling, as many chil- around the corner from my sister and tell you how many emails and Facebook heart. One wrote, “Michelle, my husband dren of a parent who has passed have said whose children played with my nieces messages I have received within the days and nephews who never reached out to following the article being published. I the family, asking how they can help. They was so overwhelmed by the support, and Where are the friends with whom you shared Shabbos meals, knew us on a personal level, yet never some of the emails brought me to tears. picked up a phone or walked around the Truthfully, I didn’t know if people would vacations, and shopping trips? Where are the friends corner to knock on the door. They seemed say that I am making a mountain out of who called for years at least a few times a week? removed from it all. When they would see a molehill regarding friends “forgetting” one of us in the street they would ask of about those who need them after the my sister’s welfare, but did nothing more death of a spouse, but that is far from and I live in your neighborhood and are the same to me. Some avoid making eye than that, at least to our knowledge. I what happened. normal people. We would love to invite contact with their parents’ friends in shul don’t blame these people; I still can’t fi nd The emails I have received, and from your father over for a meal…” That was a or on the street because they are angry fault with them. But I always wondered what I’ve been told by those who stop to sweet email. These people don’t know me that these people did not act as they were why they never offered to cook a meal for speak with me on the street, in grocery and have never met my father, yet they meant to – as a real friend. the family when a website was set up and stores, etc., is that the topic of what hap- are opening up their house and hearts to Widows and widowers tend to be- publicized for that reason, or why they pens after a spouse passes must be spoken him. I actually received a couple more in- friend each other and form “groups,” for didn’t ask how they could assist us when about. I fully believe that everyone means vitations for my father from strangers. lack of a better word. They know the lone- strangers would email and text us asking well, but until they themselves are in such An acquaintance wrote, “This past year liness of being alone in a once boisterous, that very question. Strangers from my a situation, they don’t think of it. The “it” has been very hard due to illness and I was noisy house. They know what it’s like to sister’s community volunteered to watch I am referring to is how to help their long- hospitalized for long periods of time. Ba- normally prepare and plan for two, and my then 6-week-old nephew on Sundays time friends who are now alone. It’s not ruch Hashem I am fi ne now, but for eight now it’s just one. They know the sadness, when the babysitter was unable to come. that people are insensitive, but because months my friends did not step up to the anger, and hopelessness that they them- When you are not intimately involved in a their friends can’t relate and haven’t plate to help my husband or my children. selves have felt after their spouse passed. situation or crisis, you tend not to think of shared in an experience, they aren’t as Mostly it was people from our shul or They are all a support and crutch for each those in the situation or think out of the sensitive to it as those in the situation. neighbors on the block whom we were other. These are wonderful, new friend- box of how you can be of help. You may I will share parts of some emails I have never really friendly with who offered and ships, but, again, where are the friends think, “Everyone else is doing something. received. did so much to help my family through with whom you shared Shabbos meals, It’s probably all taken care of.” One email read, “…My friends call once a the year. A death doesn’t have to occur for vacations, and shopping trips? Where are I am not afraid to admit that I have emo- week or so and that’s nice. But what about people to wonder ‘Where are my friends?’ the friends who called for years at least a tions. I am a human who cares about those when they go out to dinner or the movies, I have come to realize that if people think few times a week to share a funny experi- close to me, and when I see what my father or about inviting me for a Shabbos meal? they will be asked favors or will have to go ence or to ask a question? Now the phone is going through, trying to make his way I’m all alone, and eating alone and going out of their way to help, they avoided my remains silent. You constantly check for in life alone without my outgoing, bubbly, places alone just makes it harder.” family. It is the ones who didn’t know us missed calls, but there are none. Again, effervescent, very happy, and very sociable Another email read, “I called my friends but saw that we needed help who showed I will write as I did in my last article: I mother at his side, encouraging him to try when I was tired of sitting home alone. If us what bein adam l’chvero is.” feel as though my parents went through new things, my heart aches for him. He is I had to wait, I would have waited forev- Then a close family friend texted me, a divorce, and when dividing possessions a shadow of what he used to be. I hurt and er. They didn’t apologize or ask how I was “I want to thank you. Your words didn’t my mother got to “keep” all the friends cry for the others who have written to me doing. They avoided the topic of my hus- fall on deaf ears. I sent a Shabbos pack- my parents had. But my parents didn’t about their own experiences. band’s passing. I think that was worse. We age to an almanah and her children with divorce. My mother died suddenly, and There are completely able-bodied men were friends for half a lifetime and now a note, letting them know they haven’t before my family and I were able to un- who never had to wash a load of laundry it’s as if he never existed.” been forgotten by the community, and I derstand what was happening, she was and never had to go food shopping, who Another read, “Every Shabbos, while called an acquaintance who sat shivah a gone, and my father was left alone in ev- are now at a loss, staring at the washing the rav of the shul recites his d’var Torah, few weeks ago just to ‘check in’ and say ery sense of the word. machine and the shelves of tomato sauce I want to stand up and yell, ‘Practice what hi….” That text warmed my heart because Years ago, when my sister was hospi- you preach!’ My wife and I were members I know how grateful the recipients of her talized for months, I wrote an article that CONTINUED ON P. 60 of the shul for over 20 years before she kind actions felt. passed, and not once has the rabbi or his The emails kept coming. I didn’t know Michelle Gruber is an LMSW and a lifelong Queens resident, guest lecturer and author of the rebbetzin invited me for a Shabbos meal that by writing the article I seemed to have shidduch dating book “The Best of My Worst” and children’s book “Where Has Zaidy Gone?” She in the years I’ve been alone. The rav called opened the fl oodgates. I do agree with can be contacted at [email protected].

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 53 Designing An Elderly Exercise Plan – Even For The Frail By Anita Kamiel, RN, MPS were able to increase the thickness of their needs and know how much to push them for brain’s cortex, the part of the brain that usu- improved strength, fl exibility and mobility. s the weather begins to turn cold, we ally atrophies with Alzheimer’s disease. Both Just make sure all exercises are approved have a natural tendency to hibernate healthy, older adults and those already diag- by a medical and healthcare team and all Aand neglect our need for exercise. nosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) should be good to go! Generally, developing fi tness plans focuses benefi tted. In fact, those already with MCI If someone hasn’t exercised in awhile, on the young and middle-aged, but forget showed the greatest improvement with sig- start slowly with shorter, more frequent pe- that seniors need fi tness routines of their nifi cant improvement in memory recall. riods of exercise. Basically, you need about own that take into account their special 30 minutes of exercise per day which can be needs and defi cits. MYTH: The elderly feel broken into two 15-minute or three 10-min- it’s too late to make significant ute intervals. Varying the exercises improves FACT: By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans improvements in their overall health. different areas and adds interest. Employing will be older than 65. Actually, strengthening muscles and im- a trainer for at least the fi rst few sessions As people age, there is a loss of muscle proving fl exibility, balance and bone density will help ensure that exercises are being mass, strength, fl exibility and bone leading is the most benefi cial thing you can do to done correctly. to a loss of mobility and, therefore, indepen- prevent injuries and dreaded elderly falls. Activities should include some appropri- dence. Regular exercise including aerobics, Now is precisely the time to work on these ate aerobic or cardiovascular work through strength training as well as balance and fl ex- defi cits. activities. Strength training is great for en- ibility exercises can mitigate this. hancing balance to reduce the risk of falls MYTH: Seniors can’t exercise and to help in general with getting up and the way to a healthier, fi tter self. FACT: because they are too frail and will down. Yoga is a wonderful and relaxing form 1. Assess the current physical condition of New studies show that a well-designed hurt themselves. of exercise as is Tai Chi. For those who are the senior. exercise plan can delay or prevent loss An exercise regimen incorporating goals able to get out, strength training can also be • Start informally with the senior and a of cognitive functioning until the 90s specifi c to the elderly client while taking done using machines in a gym calibrated to relative or caregiver. and longer. Now that’s motivation! into account their specifi c defi cits is best the individual. • After, go over it more formally with the In recent studies, older adults who par- accomplished using a fi tness trainer who is Follow these steps in conjunction with primary doctor and professional trainer. ticipated in a moderate exercise program acquainted with the elderly and their special professionals and the senior will be well on 2. Design a specifi c exercise routine based on the senior’s defi cits and preferences. In- clude a variety of exercises and activities like: • Sitting and standing exercises. • Water exercise such as swimming. • Outdoor activities such as brisk walking or gardening. • Exercises for balance like yoga or tai chi. 3. Establish the routine to ensure a solid pattern is set and make available videos or apps on a phone or tablet for learning, rein- forcement and proper form. 4. Find exercise buddies or a class. Com- panionship makes it more enjoyable and is insurance that the new regimen will be ad- hered to. 5. Cheer on your senior and laud this im- portant accomplishment. There are many resources for helping se- niors incorporate their new routine into ev- eryday life. The National Institutes of Health Go4Life website has excellent exercise tips and videos. David York Home Healthcare Agency has a packet of worksheets, “My Exercise Plan,” available at their website to be used in association with healthcare pro- fessionals and fi tness trainers experienced in dealing with the elderly. The plan helps organize: 1. Short and long term physical fi tness goals. 2. Specifi c workout activities addressing: increased mobility; endurance; upper-body strength; lower-body strength; balance, and fl exibility. 3. Number of minutes and times per week for each exercise. 4. Monthly view of the workout routine. 5. The tracking of daily and weekly adher- ence with a log and progress notes. We now know that exercise isn’t just great for your body, but also your mind. Se- niors who exercise daily improve physically and maintain cognitive health. Be patient and remember it’s never too late to begin exercising since every movement optimizes vitality. Let me know if I can help!

Anita Kamiel, R.N, M.P.S. is the founder and owner of David York Home Healthcare Agency and is fully acquainted with all fac- tors related to eldercare services and the latest guidelines for seniors. Thirty years ago, she realized the need for affordable, quality home health aide services provided and supervised by caring individuals. You can contact her at 718.376.7755 or at www.davidyorkagency. com. David York Agency is also on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn.

54 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Helpful Books Worth A Look Eta Feuerman-Yaeger, LMSW

The Awakened Family: A Revolution In Parenting By Shefali Tsabary This book will help you: fears can be the fear of not being heard, activity, you can acknowledge the fear of not being loved, of not being success- and then consciously decide to choose ful. For instance, if your child doesn’t listen the best action for the present moment: I • Understand how core fears to a limit, you may be angry and want to am aware that I am concerned about my may be triggering you in punish; you may be thinking, “I don’t have child’s academic future when he brings any control over my child, I am ineffective home a low grade, and I can collaborate your parenting challenges as a parent, my child will grow up to be out with him and his supports to help. Tsa- of control.” I can see fears getting in the bary suggests pausing before reacting to way of parents of children I work with, and misbehavior, like enforcing for yourself • Better regulate your I try to help them be aware of it. Many par- to do nothing for fi ve minutes before dis- emotions when parenting ents may be harsh because they are afraid ciplining. Think to yourself: What might that their children won’t be “good” or suc- be triggering me right now? What is the cessful. I relate to the fear of saying yes, as best way to communicate to my child hildren are an investment into our Tsabary describes it. I know that I’m more right now? What may be triggering them future, and it makes sense to have likely to be reactive when I’m afraid of not right now? Furthermore, you can work Cmany hopes and dreams for them. ly saying, “Don’t talk like that to me! That’s However, these hopes can turn into expec- disrespectful!” you can say, “I am hearing tations, which can turn into fears that they If our child isn’t doing what we want them to, things that really make me angry. Can you won’t work out. Fear can blind us from be- our fears can cause us to project into the future, talk to me about your concerns in a way ing present and making the most helpful I can listen to?” Tsabary is not precluding parenting decisions. The Awakened Family or trigger an unfulfilled need from the past setting appropriate limits; however, she is seeks to encourage parents to explore their presenting a better way to communicate triggers and fears so they do not affect their getting enough sleep or time to myself. I on using your reactions to communicate and manage the high emotions of parent- ability to parent with love and acceptance. have trouble letting go and being playful, authentically by observing what they are ing challenges. The author discusses how frustrations putting my own wishes aside to give to doing neutrally, say how it makes you feel, In last week’s column, the top priority with children serve as a helpful mirror to them whole-heartedly, being able to have and invite collaboration for a solution. of emotion regulation in parenting was our own shortcomings as parents, so that fun without worrying about getting things This channels your own frustration into discussed. The Awakened Family can help we can know what to work on for ourselves. done. I have recently become more playful, modeling communication and emotion guide parents to further improve their Many times, our children’s misbehavior is using roughhousing and humor as tools to regulation, and fosters connection with self-awareness so as to increase emotion triggered, or at least exacerbated, by our connect, which has been making me more your child. For example, instead of harsh- regulation during parenting challenges. own reactions. The author explores how fl exible and loving. parents can focus on working on them- Tsabary discusses how love from fear Eta Feuerman-Yaeger, LMSW is a psychotherapist who works with children, adults, and groups, selves, instead of blaming and over-disci- isn’t unconditional love, such as “I’m pres- with offi ces in Queens and Brooklyn. She can be reached at [email protected]. plining their children. Fear is a large com- suring you to do this because I love you.” ponent of these possible shortcomings, By doing this, you are expecting the loved which may cause parents to be overly af- one to be a certain way or turn out a certain fected by baggage of the past and worries way. Love should be appreciating them for for the future. When we are reacting out of how they are in the moment, instead of fear, we are more likely to be yelling, not waiting for them to be a “good boy.” Often, listening to our child’s present needs, and parents may be afraid that if their child be controlling. If our child isn’t doing what isn’t behaving, being respectful, or being we want them to, our fears can cause us nice to their sibling, they will never be suc- to project into the future, or trigger an un- cessful, a good person, respect us the way fulfi lled need from the past. For example, we feel we deserve, etc. However, trying to if someone experiences their child lying, pressure or control them into being a cer- they may feel triggered and worried about tain way prevents a child from listening to their child growing up into someone who themselves, being self-motivated, or using lies often, or remember how they lied to their own strengths and creativity to be their own parents and be concerned that who they want to be. Fears and expecta- they are on the same or worse path. The tions leave no room for who you and your author encourages parents to start notic- child are in the present moment, with your ing their core fears and how they may be present capabilities and needs. affecting how quickly or harshly they react Tsabary helps parents channel their to their children. fears more constructively by turning their Core fears are often residual from our fears into consciousness. When you get own childhoods. Some examples of core better at noticing the triggers to your re-

Also: Young children can strangle in the 1. Install safety devices loop of pull cords, chain and bead that remove the cord cords, and cords that run through loop or reduce access to cords. window coverings. They can also 2. Move cribs and wrap cords around their necks. To furniture away from avoid strangulation and entanglement, window coverings. keep cords out of reach of 3. Place window guards on each young children. window

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 55 Daily Zmanim Hooked On Healing Caroline Schumsky, LCSW, MS

Social Skills Quiz

ll right, all you bakers out there. What is the perfect recipe for guar- Aanteeing achievement and success in life? Don’t exactly have one, do ya? Ah, that’s because, truthfully, there isn’t one. But there are actually some “ingredients” you may want to toss in the mix. Acquiring social and emotional skills is a standing that they may not feel the same prime place to start. What does that mean, as you do. How demanding and diffi cult is Caroline? Okay, not sure what social skills that. Talk about going uphill and upstream. are? Is your life just a series of awkward Okay. Let’s dig in, shall we. How about and humiliating moments separated by teaching ourselves, children, and loved snacks? Then ya may need to brush up on ones how to have “attention.” Purposeful- your people skills. ly directing your mind to focus on some- If you walk around saying things like: thing may not be as easy as you think. How “Sorry, I didn’t have the social skills to attentive are you? Are you on autopilot communicate with you ‘cuz the Wi-Fi was much of the day? How often do you notice down,’” you best roll up them sleeves and nature around you, sounds, or even your get started. What smarts do you think own thoughts and feelings? Here’s a tip: you need in order to maintain awesome Ask yourself (or someone you are with) to relationships with your loved ones? How describe something you just perceived or about positive relationships with bosses, experienced using all fi ve senses. co-workers, or friends for that matter? How fl exible, pliant, and adaptable Would you hazard a guess that commu- are you? And I don’t mean in Yoga class. nication, decision-making, self-control, and Suppose something entirely unexpected problem-solving may be among the great- happens to you. How do you deal with est hits here? it? Cultivate the ability to overcome your How about we begin with good ole’ fears and take action. Be more open about fashioned manners. Do you feel as though the changing conditions of life. And don’t you approach others in an acceptable way? be like me, saying things like: “Sure, I wel- Do you ask permission when needed or come change, so long as nothing is altered express gratitude when warranted? Raise or different.” Heh. your hand if you always remember to say Practice courtesy, civility, and consider- “Please” and “Thank you.” How good are ation. Use sensitive, supportive, and solic- you at listening, compromising, cooperat- itous words and actions. Are you aware of ing, following directions, and accepting the your tone of voice? Y’all know how subtle consequences of your behavior? You know that can be. Sometimes you can even hear what they say: “More people would learn the smile in someone’s voice. Say to your from their mistakes if they weren’t so busy friend: “Please don’t be afraid to tell me denying them.” if I ever overstep my bounds or hurt your Is handling frustration or anger in your feelings.” Here’s my rule of thumb for the repertoire? How would you score on a quiz married folk: Don’t ever shout at each oth- about confl ict resolution? Do you know er, unless the house is on fi re. techniques on how to cool yourself down Be a human superhero at home or in and refl ect on the best course of action in your community. Say to your wife: “Honey, certain situations? Diffi culty waiting your I’m a Superhero. Guess my name. She will turn at times? My, my, how impatient are say: Superman? Batman? Ironman? Then we. Okay, are you the type who feels hun- you say: No. Your Man. Then g’head and be gry, makes a snack, then grabs a snack while courageous. Do something diffi cult, even if waiting for the snack to fi nish? Busted. you have to try a few times before getting Learning how to cope with negative the hang of it. And just remember, sweet feelings may prove to be the most hercu- friends: We are all responsible for creating lean of all. Suppose you even know what the next generation of Superheroes. So go you may be feeling. What about predicting ahead and give them something moving, how your loved ones might feel and under- magnifi cent, and mind-blowing to imitate.

Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an offi ce in Queens. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at [email protected] or at face- book.com/pages/Safe-Haven-Healing.

56 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 From Throwing Strikes To Rolling Them: MLB Star Nelson Figueroa To Host Charity Bowl For Chai Lifeline A Jewish Link Exclusive Interview

By Daniel Perez the Taiwanese league had never beaten the mound last year, I know exactly what that’s Japanese league before in the Asian Cup. I like. Coming back from injuries, I know ex- elson Figueroa, Jr. might not be the was supposed to sign with Japan, but they actly what that’s like. I had shoulder surgery, fi rst name to pop into your mind wound up signing someone else, and I was and it took me four years to get back to the when you think of the Orthodox Jew- able to pitch a complete game against them. major leagues, so I can defi nitely speak to it N Figueroa is now a post-game studio analyst ish non-profi t Chai Lifeline. But the truth is We won 4-1, and it was kind of my chance in ways that they can’t – the guys who are that the famed major league pitcher-turned- to not only leave my mark against the Japa- more well-known, with the hall of fame ca- for New York Mets broadcasts TV personality has more in common with nese team, but in Taiwan to be the fi rst team reers. So I think it also gives a voice to those our community than one might realize. He member to beat a Japanese team, it was very players, the grinders, the guys who have to WHAT: Nelson Figueroa Charity spent his early years “wandering the desert,” special. be at their best every single day. They’re try- Bowl benefi ting Chai Lifeline sometimes literally – his major league debut ing to impress people every single time, and WHERE: Lucky Strike, Lucky Strike was with the Arizona Diamondbacks – as he QJL: That is exciting. Bringing the con- I think I’m doing that same thing as an an- Manhattan, 624-660 West 42nd Street, played for more than half a dozen teams in versation back to the present, tell me, what alyst now, and I can relate to those players New York, NY 10036 the US and overseas over the course his ca- do you like best about being an on-air ana- as well. WHEN: Monday, January 16, 2017, reer. Since hanging up his glove, he has be- lyst for the New York Mets? from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. come a broadcaster for the New York Mets, NF: I defi nitely like the fact that I’m QJL: Speaking of being a voice for peo- and one of SNY’s most insightful commen- getting paid to give my opinion now. A lot ple who have had to fi ght an uphill battle, FOR TICKETS: Go to EventBrite.com tators (Jewish readers, as a rule, love a good of times you kind of have to swallow it, tell us a little about your involvement with and enter “Nelson” into the search bar. commentary). Or follow the link on Nelson These connections, while fun to point Figueroa’s Twitter feed, @FigSNY out, are of course superfi cial. Where Mr. “Being confined to a wheelchair, yet finding the power Figueroa really sets himself apart is in how BONUS: The Chai Lifeline Experience he has used his star power in the service to walk a thousand steps - I was just in awe of it, Auction is open at CharityBuzz.com/ of worthy causes – he is, in a word, a men- and I wanted to get involved somehow” support/ChaiLifeline. tch. The former Met was kind enough to sit down and chat with us in an exclusive interview about his exciting life as a ma- when you’re a player and you’re coming up Chai Lifeline. How did you come to connect got the ability to walk. And I know just to jor league player and on-air analyst, and to through the ranks. Now, people tune in to with them? see the smile on his face, being able to do share the heartwarming story of how he be- see what I’m going to say after a ballgame, NF: It started back in 2009. I met the Fin- things that normal kids do, was a tremen- came involved with Chai Lifeline. and that’s exciting for me. I have such a kelstein family at a game at Citi Field. And dous experience. great relationship with the Mets, and be- their daughter Peri, at the time, she was in Queens Jewish Link: We know it’s been ing that I grew up a Mets fan, just to know a wheelchair – she has muscular dystro- QJL: That is a truly inspiring story. a couple of years since you joined the SNY that the things that I’m doing now, the way phy. She had made me a bracelet for good Thank you for sharing it with our readers. team, but how do you like being back in that I watch the game is a little bit differ- luck, and I wore it proudly, and gave one to On the subject of Team Peri, I hear you’re New York? ent from most analysts, and I’m able to give [third baseman and current team captain] organizing a charity bowling event at Man- Nelson Figueroa, Jr.: I love being back in them some insights hopefully in a different David Wright. She was just such an awe- hattan’s Lucky Strike. New York. I was in Arizona because of the way than they’re used to, from the previous some spirit. NF: Yeah, we’ve teamed up with Michael warmth, but New York is home. My parents generation of analysts. And then, all this time had passed, be- Gruen at 3PT Sports Management; he’s re- still live in Coney Island, and all my friends cause again I went from the Mets to playing ally spearheaded this with me. It all came and family are still in the Tri-State Area, so QJL: That must be really gratifying, hav- all over the world after that. And I was work- together rather quickly. We kind of hit up it’s great being back. ing all of your experiences come to fruition, ing as an analyst last year at SNY, and her every organization, every sports franchise and to offer a sort of wisdom and insight brother contacted me through Facebook, in the city, and the donations have been in- QJL: Before returning home, you trav- that other commentators aren’t necessarily and showed me a video of her. Now this credible. The actual event itself is going to eled quite a bit. I think it’s accurate to say going to bring to the table. You were there, was seven years later, and she was walking a be taking place at Lucky Strike – there’s a that you’ve struck out batters all around the and not long ago. That’s really cool. thousand steps at the Miami Marathon, and $40 donation. Fans, friends, supporters can world. Could you share with us a particu- NF: Yeah, exactly. Even the guys who it moved me to tears to see how strong she come in; there’s a night of bowling from six larly memorable experience from your time have done it before, a lot of the analysts are had become and how she had been work- to nine. We have a lot of door prizes, raffl e on the road? guys who have had tremendous careers, hall ing with Team Lifeline, and she had her prizes... just a chance to get out and cele- NF: I’d have to say that probably the of fame careers, even. And they don’t know own chapter, Team Peri. And to courageous- brate. Peri’s going to be there as well – in most exciting was having the chance to about the other side of things. Like when ly do this, being confi ned to a wheelchair, fact, several members from Team Peri. We’re play in Taiwan. And pitching against Japan, Matt Harvey was getting booed off the yet fi nding the power to walk a thousand going to be walking in the marathon less steps with the specially-made wheelchair, I than two weeks later, so I wanted to give her was just in awe of it, and I wanted to get a little send-off and a chance to raise some involved somehow. money. So I decided to sign up alongside her. From that we were also able to put to- She’s going to do one mile in the mara- gether a charity auction online on Charity- thon this year, and I have signed up to do a Buzz.com. We’ve got over 110 outstanding half-marathon. Having had hip replacement experience packages, which are different surgery last year, it’s going to be a challenge from most. It’s not just getting a signed for me as well, and I wanted to be there with ball or a signed bat. You have a chance to her to walk that one mile strong at the end. actually meet the player; you have a chance She got me involved, and she has raised a to be at a ball game with several other su- ton of money for Chai Lifeline, giving kids per-fans. One of the packages is taking in a chance to go to Camp Simcha [a summer a Mets game with me and Ralph Macchio, camp for children battling cancer and other The Karate Kid. A fun experience for us, and serious conditions]. I felt like it was tremen- you have the opportunity to meet and hang dous opportunity to do something good for out with us. You can have a chance to meet these kids. My cousin was a hemophiliac David Wright after batting practice, take growing up, who was confi ned to a wheel- chair, then fi nally got to his crutches, and CONTINUED ON P. 69

Figueroa’s professional career spanned from 2000-2011, including a stint with the Mets Daniel Perez is a freelance writer and consultant based in New York. He can be reached at from 2008-2009 [email protected].

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 57 Shaping of Halachah In New Kollel Program

By Sergey Kadinsky topics through halachah. Launched almost two months ago, the kollel takes place on new morning kollel designed for weekday mornings at 6:10 a.m., led by Rab- working men seeks to bring yes- bi Elan Segelman. It is followed by Shacha- Ahivah-style learning in addressing ris davening at 7 a.m. (6:55 on Mondays and Thursdays). In contrast to the Daf Yomi shiurim that study the Mishnah and Gemara that com- prise the Oral Law, and the popular Dir- shu classes that look into halachah, Rab- bi Segelman’s kollel offers a middle path. “It’s fascinating to see the development of halachah over the centuries,” said partici- pant Chaim Basch. “That’s the beauty of it. Build up with Mishnah and Gemara to- wards the Shulchan Aruch, Magen Avraham, the Taz, and Rav Moshe.” Basch signed up for the learning pro- gram seeking to further his knowledge of halachah, building on what he learned in his s’michah courses. As an accountant with three children, he also found it a per- fect fi t in his busy schedule. “This uplifts QUEENS the tefi lah experience. It is something that we have been looking for.” A musmach of Lander College for Men’s Bais Medrash L’Talmud, Rabbi Segelman KOLLEL Introducing a NEW is a lecturer at Yeshiva Madreigas HaAdam as well as Touro College’s Medical School, New York Medical College. In addition to Pre-Shachris Halacha delivering his various shiurim, he also pro- BOKER vides chasan classes for many chasanim in L'maaseh Learning Queens and the Five Towns. One of them was Eliyahu Jacobs. Like Basch, he has a busy day involving his accounting work, Program in KGH studying for his CPA exam, and as a new- lywed, being home with his wife. “My time SStarttart YYourour is limited and this program is learning the way we did in yeshivah,” said Jacobs. Par- ticipants are paired into chavrusos, pouring MMorningorning RRight!ight! over sheets published by the Shivti pro- gram of Lakewood. “The sources are in the • Daily Chavrusa Learning booklet, 15 to 20 m’koros with a little sum- Monday - Friday mary, all in Hebrew,” said Basch. “We are on • Maarei Mikomos Packets Provided our third packet on the subject of Kiddush.” 6:10 am - Shachris* Following chavrusa learning, Rabbi Segel- man wraps up the classes with a brief shiur • Weekly Shuir on Practical Halacha summarizing the topic. Rabbi Friedman's Shul As an example, in addressing the practi- 139-19 72nd Rd, KGH cal aspects of the mitzvah of Kiddush, the kollel looks into details such as whether one must drink the wine, situations when wine is not available, or when one fi nds * Mon/Thurs - Shachris at 6:55 its taste unpleasant. “It’s important not to be spoon-fed,” said Rabbi Segelman. “This * Tues, Wed & Fri - Shachris at 7:00 kollel is geared towards growing our knowl- edge of practical halachah.” (Shachris Ends Before 7:35) The sources selected represent the lead- ing voices of their respective generations in the centuries between the Talmud Bav- li and today. “We make our way through history towards the contemporary poskim. For more information about We analyze how it began and how it evolved over time,” said Rabbi Segelman. the Kollel, or to sponsor a “It’s not just Shulchan Aruch and Mishnah day of learning, please email B’rurah.” Rabbi Elan Segelman at Rabbi Segelman’s morning kollel is based at Bais Yosef D’Ulem (Rabbi Friedman’s shul) [email protected] at 139-19 72nd Road. For more information, contact Rabbi Segelman at rabbisegelman@ gmail.com or 914-275-6951.

58 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Interior Design For The 99% Zisi Naimark Some Treasures From Amazon

s I may have mentioned once or twice, these arti- These sharp hexagonal wall stickers; $9 for a pack of 12: cles are written on a pro bono basis (that means AI’m not paid). However, I was delightfully surprised to have a box of beautiful, fancy Chanukah cupcakes deliv- ered to my front door, along with a note from the editors. The gist of the note went something like: …Thanks for your hilarious “design” column…. Please ac- cept this small gift as a token of our appreciation. (Maybe you can buy 1/1004 of a designer daybed or something. Not that you’d buy furniture off Amazon, G-d forbid ;) I have so many thoughts. 1. If you really appreciate my work, maybe you could send something that will not make my children bounce off the walls and hang from the ceiling for the next three days? 2. Why was the word “design” in quotes? Do you not consider my pearls of wisdom the genuine deal? Great heavens, I may demand a raise after this slight! Freshen up an old chandelier with new shades, $16. 3. I’m not specifying exactly how much or how little Here’s a radical plan for reworking a fussy, old chandelier: the Amazon gift was, but when in the history of my pre- 1. Strip off the crystals. vious 28 columns have I ever advocated for overpriced 2. Spray paint the entire body in a fresh white. furniture? Say the gift was worth $5. What in my written 3. Rehang the hooks with wood beads instead of the history signifi es that I would spend $5,020 dollars on a crystals. White, pale neutrals and non-sugary pastels all daybed?! work. 4. “Not that you’d buy furniture off Amazon.” Excuse me?! I, who barely let a week pass without recommend- ing something from Overstock.com? I, who have regu- larly shown items from Walmart and Ikea? You suggest This cherry blossom wall decal, $11: that I wouldn’t deign to shop at Amazon?! Naftali, have you actually read any of my columns since the fi rst three that I sent in May? As an act of civil protest, I will therefore showcase some of my favorite home accessory items from Amazon. You are free to deduce the approximate value of the QJL’s gift, as all these items can be purchased with the coupon code. This set of three fl oating shelves, $12.42 This acrylic bead curtain ($18) is fun. It works well in This extra-large wall clock ($18) would personally give mini hallways, like within a bedroom suite. It can also be a me heart palpitations, but it’s great for businesses. It will room divider in a shared girls’ bedroom. not work as a subtle clue for a chronically late spouse, so please don’t try that. And your Yekkish mechutanim may not be entirely amused to receive this as a gift.

Zisi Naimark holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The New York These shabby chic wall hooks, $12.99 School of Interior Design and has been working for professional design fi rms since 2012. She lives in Kew Gardens Hills, where she is tolerated by her husband and sons. She can be reached at [email protected]. DISCLAIMER : A few of these decorative fans can be arranged on a wall, After submitting my column on Home Depot fl oor- like china plates. It works best for girls’ bedrooms. Prices ing, I got a message from the copy editor via the publish- vary, but all are under $10, and some are under $1. er. She was of the opinion that my comments regarding wild children scratching the walls were judgemental and possibly offensive. Some thoughts: 1. Copy editor? Naftali, you fancy. 2. Who exactly takes my comments on parenting seriously? I’m an interior designer. 3. I told the editors to leave that line out, since it could be misinterpreted. They made the executive de- cision to ignore me. 4. Anyone else who is of the same opinion and thinks that that line was obnoxious is cordially invit- ed to my apartment. I will showcase the three sepa- rate areas that my young son managed to drill clean through the sheetrock using a plastic toy saw from Amazing Savings. Plastic. I am perversely proud. Such determination!

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 59 MAZEL TOV TO... BIRTHS Dov and Gittel Nierman of Kew Gardens Hills on the birth of a grandson, born to their children Mordechai and Adina Druxman. Raina & Moish Popowitz of Kew Gardens Hills on the birth of a grandson, born to their children Jodi & Tzachi Popowitz. BAR AND BAS MITZVAH Heshy and Miriam Gutterman of Kew Gardens Hills upon the Bas Mitzvah of their granddaughter Rochel Ashkenazy in Israel.

chastised then maybe you should look friends with whom we probably spent A Good Friend Walks In… within yourself and ask why, and if many years celebrating the good times. there is something you could have done They need you now more to help them CONTINUED FROM P. 53 was reversed? I do all I can for my father that you haven’t, and if the answer is through the bad times, and not just for and I don’t mind doing any of it, but I “yes,” then do it! Forget the fact that you a couple of months after the death, but in the grocery, wondering which one ask my husband time and again, “Where have come late to the party and should they will always need and crave your to buy. There are fully capable women is ____? They’ve been friends forever; my have called months/years ago. Your friendship now that they have lost their wondering how to balance a checkbook father hasn’t heard from him or his wife friends will be grateful now. The emails best friend. We as klal Yisrael can’t just or fi le taxes… Yes, children help their since we sat shivah.” At the end of the and messages were plentiful and many be involved with our own personal lives parents begin this new phase of life, but day it doesn’t matter how old I am or of were painful to read. Many encouraged and families and forget those who need where are the friends whom they had al- my experiences in life; I am still my fa- me to open up the eyes of those who us. It’s wonderful that you deliver meals ways come to count on when they were ther’s child. He needs his friends/peers aren’t sensitive to the topic because for Tomchei Shabbos or that you learn needed in the past? These widows and as do other widows/ widowers. I had an (baruch Hashem) they haven’t been in daf yomi every day, or that you volun- widowers are faced with new challenges overwhelming feeling of hakaras hatov the situation of looking around in an teer for bikur cholim, but charity begins that may seem mundane to some, but to for others when I saw what strangers empty house/apartment and hearing at home. Help your friends. A phone call them these issues seem insurmountable did for my sister when her family was in the echoes of laughter and seeing the from you would mean so much to them. and they are at a loss. need, but now I ask, “Where is everyone? visions of times that have passed of a An invitation would let them know that We as friends have to wake up and re- Is it so hard to call a friend just to say hi? life that is no more. From the responses they are still cared about and thought of. alize that our friends need us. If we have Is it so hard to invite a now-lonely friend I have received, and I am not referring My only hope from these two articles to set reminders on our schedules to call to a movie or Shabbos meal?” Strangers to “a couple of emails,” I realized that I I have written is that people will be more a friend who is alone to ask how they are have gone out of their way for my father, may have opened a Pandora’s Box about sensitive and become more aware of oth- or to invite them out for a movie, then but not those he thought he would have this issue. There is a need for this to be ers who may not ask for help, but who do it! Wouldn’t you want someone to do been able to count on. discussed and for us to see how we can are in need of their friends and feel lost it for you or your parent if the situation Again, I chastise no one. If you feel help others; and not just others – our now that they are alone in this world.

60 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Dating Today Goldy Krantz

Getting Catfi shed

CONTINUED FROM P. 1 becoming a real-life relationship. Over the two years, Bracha and I had I’m not sure if the term “catfi sh” has been gotten to know each other and communi- added to the dictionary, but if it hasn’t, it cated almost daily. I’ve sent Bracha fl owers should be. The term – yes, it’s a term – not for yamim tovim – nothing fancy, but just just a word, refers to “luring (someone) a gesture of kindness and a friendship to- into a relationship by means of a fi ctional ken. I was getting to know this woman and online persona,” according to the urban I found her sweet, kind, funny and from dictionary. In other words, let’s say I pre- the pictures we exchanged online, I was tend to be someone else and I start com- stunned that this woman had never been municating and engaging in an online re- married or in a serious relationship. By the lationship with someone who thinks I’m way, we are in our early 40s. We had spo- when I asked for an actual picture, she had like the pictures that she sent, “but looks this other persona and I let them believe ken on the phone several times, but when- gotten scared and sent pictures of her cous- change over the years.” She told me that I was a famous fashion designer or chef ever I asked to FaceTime, there was always in. She said that she felt bad and wanted to she did not lie about the important things: or captain of a fi ghter jet…and that person an excuse, but a believable one. tell me the truth, but like a snowball rolling family, friends, work, hashkafah, values. I has no idea that I’m Goldy Krantz, a social I was absolutely thrilled when my fi rm down the hill, this “bending of the truth” couldn’t believe what I was hearing. worker, living an ordinary life in Queens. requested that I attend a two-day conven- kept getting bigger and bigger. That’s why I ended the evening telling Bracha that By doing that, I am “catfi shing” that poor tion in Bracha’s home city. I thought that she panicked when I told her that I was I had a lot to think about. I did just that. I unsuspecting person. Unfortunately, cat- this would be our chance to meet in person coming to her town. liked the personality of the person that had fi shing someone is happening more and and who knows, maybe we could start a real Goldy, I understand that there is more become my friend over the last couple of more often these days due to the availabil- years. I celebrated her victories and was a ity of social media. There is a television shoulder for her to cry on for her failures. program called “Catfi sh,” where people try ”I’m not sure if I can do justice to what I felt once But yet, this was not the person that I imag- to fi nd out if the people they have been ined. I wasn’t attracted to this person. Add “speaking with online” are really who they I realized that Bracha was not the beautifully stunning woman the fact that the lie added to the ugliness of claim to be, because after a while things that she portrayed herself to be” it all – I’m not calling her ugly, but you can don’t add up, like when one person sug- understand. Bracha didn’t even see the se- gests meeting or speaking via FaceTime verity of what she did by calling it “bending and the other person always fi nds an ex- relationship. (Since we began communicat- than physical attraction when in a relation- the truth.” I kept asking myself if I should cuse not to. ing I have gone out on dates, but because of ship. I understand that as a relationship have seen this situation coming. She never I am not here to update everyone’s vo- my conversations online with Bracha and progresses the other person may become was able to FaceTime; she wasn’t as thrilled cabulary or to inform you of the “hot new our friendship, I always thought “what if…” more or less attractive, depending on oth- as I had hoped she was when I told her that words the kids are using.” I’m here to help and maybe that stood in the way of other er personality traits. But I am not at all I would be coming to her town. Can I get singles any way I can. I received an email potential shidduchim.) Bracha wasn’t very attracted to the real Bracha. Knowing all I over the lie of her sending me her cousin’s from a man who feels that he was “cat- excited when I told her that we would be do about Bracha did not help me overlook picture? I was told that the cousin didn’t fi shed” by a woman online. I have corre- able to fi nally meet in her city because of the lie she told and kept perpetuating by know she was using her picture. Can Bra- sponded with this fellow several times and the convention. She said she was excited, sending me several pictures over the course cha be unstable because she lied for so long he has granted permission to print his orig- but very nervous. of many months. Yes, I know her person- and only confessed because I came face to inal email, as he hopes that it can prevent Arrangements were made. I fl ew to the ality and all about her life, but she lied to face with her? others from getting hurt: city and on my fi rst evening there went to me about a signifi cant part of herself and I Goldy, I just don’t know. meet Bracha in the restaurant she had sug- can’t get over that. Being the mentch that I Avi Dear Goldy: gested. I was excited but anxious as well, was raised to be, I stayed and spoke with I am writing to you because I feel em- but I reminded myself that Bracha was Bracha throughout dinner. I told her that I I thank Avi for his email. barrassed to talk with anyone I know about an old friend and we have exchanged pic- felt hurt and as if she played a cruel joke on Scams of all kinds can happen online this. My friends and family think that I am tures, spoken to each other on the phone, me. I did provide her with opportunities to and with using social media. Pre-teens and smart, savvy, sophisticated. I have a very emailed/texted almost daily so I had noth- explain and apologize. She kept telling me teenagers aren’t the only ones who have to good position in the fi rm that I work in, ing to be worried about. But I was wrong. that all she told me was the truth, and if I be careful with the information they share. and I would be the fi rst one to tell a scam The woman who met me in the restaurant could get over the “bending of the truth” of I implore all to be very careful while using from the real deal, but now I don’t know wasn’t the woman I expected. She wasn’t her appearance, then maybe we can work the World Wide Web and social media be- what to do. I was scammed in a way, and the woman from the pictures we had ex- on having a real relationship. cause you don’t know who you really are now I’m not sure what to do. changed. It turned out Bracha used her real That remark blew me out of the water. communicating with on the other side of About two years ago I began commu- name and all that she told me about her A “real relationship?” She lied for months the monitor. nicating with a woman on Facebook. To life was true – except that the pictures that to me. She never said what she did was In next week’s column I will let you make a long story very short, she sent me a she sent me where not of her. The pictures “wrong.” Bracha never owned up to what know how I answered Avi and what actu- private message saying that she viewed my were of a close cousin of Bracha’s. she did. She said that she was able to un- ally happened. profi le on another friend’s page and she no- I’m not sure if I can do justice to what derstand my shock that she didn’t look Hatzlachah to you all. ticed that my profi le said I was single. She I felt once I realized that Bracha was not too is single, is frum as well, and wanted to the beautifully stunning woman that she know if I would consider becoming Face- portrayed herself to be. Yes, all she told book friends. I didn’t think anything of it me about herself was true, but I still felt and agreed. At fi rst she private-messaged betrayed in a way. Bracha is a very plain me once every couple of weeks, but then it simple woman. She is shorter than I was became more often. The woman – I will re- told and heavier than I was led to believe. I fer to her as Bracha – started to tell me per- will not go into details of her features, but sonal things about her life. Nothing risqué, let’s just say that there was no family re- just personal information like when she semblance between her and the picture of would have an argument with a co-work- the cousin she had sent me. From the very er or how her family “couldn’t understand” start of the evening, Bracha apologized for how she felt “left out” because she was the “bending the truth.” She kept saying that only single sibling left, or when she would she “bent the truth about my looks.” She ex- plan a vacation with friends. We would plained that she wasn’t asked out on many discuss things. Bracha really seemed like dates and shadchanim weren’t helping her. a nice person and, even though we lived She didn’t mean to mislead me, but her pro- hundreds of miles away, I thought that this fi le picture was a picture of sunset and all online relationship may have potential for other pics were of nieces and nephews, so

Goldy Krantz is an LMSW and a lifelong Queens resident, guest lecturer, and author of the shidduch dating book, The Best of My Worst and children’s book Where Has Zaidy Gone? She can be contacted at [email protected].

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 61 62 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Foodie Adventures Bracha Serle A Healthy Dessert…That’s Tasty, Too! hat goes through your mind when you see a dessert that’s gluten-free, sugar-free, fat-free, Wdairy-free, and is packed with super-healthy Nutty Fruity Chocolate Bark ingredients? Do you automatically mumble under your breath, “And it’s probably taste-free too!”? Or are you the Servings: 8 kind of person who thinks to yourself, “If it’s healthy, I Ingredients: can have as much as I want, right?” [Wink, wink.] There 2 bags dairy-free chocolate chips are many different mindsets out there regarding healthy 2 ounces healthy margarine food. Where do you fall? ½ cup refi ned coconut oil In our current times, healthy eating is our way of turn- ¼ cup raw pepitas (pumpkin seeds) ing back the clock to those days of old – back to when ¼ cup up raw slivered almonds our food was unprocessed, natural vegetables were not ¼ cup up shredded coconut tampered by GMOs, and our dairy industry was as pure ¼ cup fl ax seeds as mothers’ milk. Let’s face it: Our food intake is defi - ½ cup cashew pieces nitely very unhealthy compared to what our ancestors ½ cup dried cranberries consumed. Besides for the fact that we have absolutely ½ cup raisins no clue what’s in most of our food these days, we also don’t care that much, most of the time, anyway. What Instructions: happens when you decide you want to start paying at- Take a large baking sheet and line it with a tention to your health and eating habits (yeah, right, like silicone pan liner. (If you don’t have one, use that will ever happen!)? Well, in the event that you do, parchment paper.) what’s the right way to go about healthy cooking and In a microwaveable bowl place chocolate eating? In my opinion, one can make the huge mistake chips, and start to slowly melt in the microwave of trying to be healthy and depriving themselves of any- for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between thing that tastes good. How can you cook healthy food each 30-second interval. When the chocolate that tastes delicious? How can healthy dessert be entic- chips start to melt, add the margarine and co- ing to anyone? Let’s start with this amazing recipe that’s conut oil into the bowl and continue to slowly as easy as it is healthy! melt, 30 seconds at a time. When the entire mixture is completely melted and combined, pour the mixture out onto the baking sheet and spread out evenly in a thick 1/4-inch layer. Bracha Serle works as a private chef, specializing in healthy Now comes the fun part! Take all the toppings and just sprinkle all over evenly. Make sure to have fun decorat- cooking such as gluten-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, nut-free, ing! and other dietary restriction or allergies. She runs a personal When done decorating, take a piece of parchment paper and place over the entire bark. With your hands, push chef catering business from her home. You can check out her the topping down into the chocolate so they are all “glued” in. products on Instagram @shesthechef, and can be reached via Take the baking sheet and place on a fl at shelf in your freezer. Let cool for about 4 hours. Enjoy!! email at [email protected].

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 63 64 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 65 66 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 67 FUN IN THE SNOW!

Snow date for two Submitted by Sarah Leah and Binyamin Cohen Dr. snow Cohen Submitted by Sarah Leah and Binyamin Cohen

Submitted by Simcha and Zviya Loiterman Submitted by Esther Mochan

Submitted by Esther Mochan

Submitted by Esther Mochan

Submitted by Simcha and Zviya Loiterman Submitted by Esther Mochan

68 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Style Myths Debunked Meira E. Schneider-Atik Second Wedding Myth: For a second wedding, there are a lot of rules to differentiate. Truth: It depends on the chasan and kallah.

here are a lot of people who have married before (assuming that you both said that 2016 was a horrible year want a fancy wedding). Tand they couldn’t wait for it to be Whether one or both of you have over. Granted, there were a lot of bad been married before and whether you things that happened in 2016, but I’m want a fancy wedding or not, I do have not badmouthing 2016 because there some style advice for you. were also a number of good things that If you’re planning to go the formal happened. Among other things, there are route, just follow the style advice I gave four different people whom I know, all in previous articles. The gown has to fi t divorcees, who got married for the sec- and fl atter you to perfection and so do ond time in 2016. And I hope that this your veil, headpiece, hairstyle, jewelry, second chance at love and happiness and shoes. For the chasan, you’ll have to goes the distance. I’m also sure that choose either a classic tuxedo, an updat- there were widowed people who got ed tuxedo, or a suit, depending on the remarried and I wish them every happi- level of formality. Whatever you choose, ness as well. it has to fi t and fl atter you to perfection.

The old rule that a second-time bride should not wear white is long dead

It used to be that if you were getting If both of you have been married be- married for the second time, whether you fore and you don’t want to bother with were divorced or widowed, there were a a fancy wedding again, you don’t have ton of rules about your second wedding. to go that route. The kallah may wear While a fi rst wedding was usually large a gown that fi ts her and fl atters her and formal, a second wedding had to be perfectly, but I would advise that you much smaller and less formal. Well, most keep the gown simple, with minimal of those rules have died and now it’s real- ornamentation and no train. I would ly up to the chasan and kallah. also advise a veil no longer than fi nger- From me, you get the truth. tip length. You also have the option of While the etiquette rules have died, a dress that falls as short as JBTK (just the truth is that if both the chasan and below the knee). Again, make sure it fi ts kallah have been married before, it’s and fl atters perfectly. likely that neither one will want to go For all brides, the gown/dress can be through the fuss and bother of a large white if that fl atters you – the old rule and formal wedding. They’ve been there that a second-time bride should not and done that. However, if either the wear white is long dead. If white doesn’t chasan or the kallah has never been mar- fl atter you, it’s okay to wear ivory, cream, ried, then either they or their families beige, or another version of white. Strict- The kallah may wear a gown that will want a fancy wedding. The etiquette ly speaking, you don’t have to wear fits her and flatters her perfectly, rules did not rule out a fancy wedding white at all if you don’t want to. but I would advise that you keep You also have the option of a in that case, even in my parents’ day. For the chasan, if you’re not going the the gown simple, with minimal dress that falls as short as JBTK And thanks to the death of the etiquette fancy-wedding route, then I would ad- ornamentation and no train (just below the knee) rules, you don’t have to rule out a fancy vise a suit. It’s best if it’s dark, but that wedding even if both of you have been can mean black, navy, charcoal, or any dark neutral that works for you. buy, rent, or borrow your wedding attire. I have often stated that while your What matters is that your attire is new Meira E. Schneider-Atik is a wardrobe organizer, personal shopper, jewelry designer, and wedding attire need not be brand new, it to you. fashion writer and speaker. She helps women look great while saving time, effort, and money, does have to be new to you. Yes, even for Whether you choose a formal or not- all within tzniut. Her jewelry pieces can be seen on Facebook (just look up Rena Mei) or in a second wedding; I stand by that. If the so-formal wedding for the second time person. She also has the YouTube channel “Look your best in mitpachot,” where she does head- kallah is planning to wear a real gown around, you must dress well, look great, wrapping tutorials, and she is available for private demonstrations. She can be reached at (718) and the chasan is planning to wear a and enjoy the second chance. 644-6135 or at [email protected]. classic tuxedo, then it’s perfectly fi ne to To be continued… From Throwing Strikes To Rolling Them CONTINUED FROM P. 57 the Chai Lifeline charity.

pictures and shake hands with him, and QJL: That all sounds like an absolute get something autographed right there blast. In fact, I’m calling dibs on the Mets on the fi eld. That’s one of the packages game with you and Ralph Macchio. Let me we have. Marvel Comics has put up two ask you, what can our readers do, if they friends-and-family tickets to the advanced read your story and are inspired? How can screening of Guardians of the Galaxy II, they get involved with Chai Lifeline? and other autographed memorabilia from NF: They can defi nitely go to ChaiLife- Marvel Comics. We’re offering a chance to line.org and sign up. There are so many sit and have lunch with several CEOs of ways you can volunteer and give of your major corporations. There are too many time. Really, that’s more important than experiences for me to list. It’s just an the money, is these people donating their amazing thing that every day we’re put- time. On the website, you can read up ting more and more items out there, and about the many ways in which you can people are taking to them very well. Bids contact them to help out, and just be in- are rising and it has been incredible to see volved with such a tremendous organiza- the outpouring of love and support for tion that does such good work.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 69 70 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Beauty Briefs Risselle Naimark Beauty Shortcuts

hen you’re pressed for time, Bronze Is Beautiful want to look great, and need to Whead somewhere quickly, you can transform your usual beauty routine with a quick swish and swipe. Here are four beauty fi xes that will save you loads of time. Eye Enhancers

warm undertones or olive skin, opt for an orange/red. For a dark complexion, try a deep crimson color. The beauty of this look To create soft and beautiful eyes that is the strong mouth, so make sure to keep still have lots of punch, try the following: the rest of your makeup simple. A touch of for a most natural look. Next, apply blush Apply a shimmery neutral eye shadow to shimmery, gold shadow will not only keep on your cheekbones and make the apple of your lids in a color that closely resembles your eyes looking soft, but will also attract the cheeks pop by adding a bit more color your skin tone. Next apply a chocolate light to your eyes and make them pop. there. Light skin looks great with a cool- brown shadow into and slightly above the toned pink, while plummy/pink hues com- creases. Try to extend it a bit past the out- Get Glowing plement olive and dark skin. If you have With a quick fl ick of some liquid eyelin- er corner and wrap it around your bottom If you’re a minimalist, well-groomed light skin with warm undertones, opt for er you can achieve today’s current look. You lashes. Then drag it out a bit so that you brows and a bit of blush can make you look a peachy pink. For those with medium to can even choose a sparkly and colored liner create a small V at the outer edges of the polished and fresh in a matter of moments. dark skin that’s yellow based, try a peachy/ to really brighten your eye. First draw the eyes. Next, smudge a dark brown gel pen- First, fi ll in any sparse eyebrow spots with a orange hue. For a bit of added glow, brush line with a black pencil, to ensure the line cil along your top and bottom lashes. Ap- pencil, powder, or gel browliner that clear- on a champagne highlighter on the top of is even and foolproof. Kick it up a bit past ply some mascara and your eyes will look ly matches the color of your eyebrows. This your cheekbones, down your nose, and the outer corner, then trace the pencil with dazzling. will perfect and frame your eyes instantly. right above your cupid’s bow. A swipe of lip a glittery liquid liner in a jewel tone. Navy, Make sure to apply with soft, light strokes gloss can complete and perfect this look. emerald, or plum can really make your eyes Get Ready and Set in Red pop instantly. It should take about 30 sec- Swipe on a red lipstick. This can instant- Risselle Naimark is a Professional Freelance Makeup Artist and Skincare Consultant. She onds for liquid liner to dry. You can then ly transform your look and give you that carries an extensive line of personalized skincare, cosmetics, and anti-aging products. Risselle curl your lashes and apply some mascara. added glamour within seconds. For cool is also available for weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, makeup lessons, and all of your beauty needs. She Now watch your eyes sparkle and shine. and fair skin, try a cherry red. If you have can be reached at 718 263-5517.

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 71 72 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Feelin’ Funny Mordechai Schmutter Real-Life Mysteries

ne of the weirdest things about as if you put it into your phone, then yes, son, which is defi nitely the way to go if it’s putting on your coat or jacket after you might lose the phone, but then your a potential employer. Omonths of not wearing it is all the life will be over, and it won’t matter that Or you can just call the number and weird things you fi nd in the pockets. It’s you also lost the number. solve the mystery. But let’s say you do call like a time capsule. You get to fi nd out who Was the number really NOT important, the number; what will you say? you were six months ago. and I just took his number to be polite “Hello, this is Yankel Friedman.” Apparently, I was the kind of guy who but had no intention to call him? Or did “Who?” carried Advil everywhere. And a bentcher. I quickly write the number down and have “I have your number on a piece of paper, The fi rst time of the year that you wear no time to write the name because he just and I have no idea why. Do you?” it somewhere – say, you pick it up in a rush kept talking, so I fi gured I’d write his name “I’m calling the police.” on the way out to a shiur – you spend the down right after the conversation, but then “I tried! They weren’t very helpful.” entire time silently fi shing things out of as soon as he walked away I got distracted, You’d think having a name that some pect you to know why you did. So the poor your pocket and making faces. probably by something ancient and myste- people know makes it better, but it actually guy is trying to fi gure it out before you do. “Why do I have a fork?” rious that I found in my pocket? makes it worse. Or it could be that he’s going senile. I also have Chap Stick, a pack of mints Let’s see: Where did I go last winter that “Hello, this is Mordechai Schmutter.” Have you ever walked into a room and for- with only one mint left (but it’s soft), and a I could have run into someone? I should “The writer?” gotten why you’re there? wrapper from some food I didn’t want the check the receipts. “Yes. I found your number, but I don’t “Hey, why’d I call you? Do you know? I kids to know I had. And one glove. One There’s a school of thought that if it know your name. What’s your name?” knew a minute ago. Who is this?” glove! Why don’t I have the other glove? were really that important, you would “That’s funny. You’re probably going to So calling the person might be a good Maybe this is the other glove. have remembered to call the person. But write about this, right?” idea, unless it turns out to be a phone num- Ok, smart guy, why don’t I have both then there’s another school of thought that “Obviously.” ber you just wrote down to be polite. But gloves? if you specifi cally located a piece of paper “Well then I’m not giving you my real what if it’s someone you need to make a I also have enough receipts for a biogra- to write this down, it must be important. name.” good impression on? Do you really think pher to piece together the entire previous Which school do we pasken like? Though this might explain something: someone’s going to hire you (or let you winter. Maybe there are clues on the paper. For You know how you occasionally get a marry his daughter) if his fi rst impression (Do writers have biographers? If you’re instance, is it on the back of a seating card? phone call where the caller begins with, is, “Calls random people and doesn’t know a fan of a writer, why would you want to Is it on the back of a seating card that isn’t “Who is this?” why”? Maybe the best impression you can read an account of his life written by some- even your seating card? Then you know it’s “I don’t know; you called me.” make is by not calling him. Maybe he’ll for- one who’s not him? It’s gonna be pretty important. What I’m saying is, maybe he found your get about you, and then if somehow you boring, especially judging by my receipts: And let’s say it is important. Who’s it im- number in his coat pocket. He wants to beat end up in each other’s lives some other “And then, on December 12, he returned the portant to? Did you write it down for your you to the punch and ask for your name. way, it’ll be like it never happened. Until fl oating wicks and bought the cotton ones sake or for his? If it was for his sake, and If he waits long enough for you to ask for he’s standing next to you at a simcha, and in a size 8.” “Wow! He really is just like you didn’t call, why hasn’t he called you his, your next question is going to be why you’re fi shing things out of your pocket, us!”) by now? Did he put his entire life in the he called, and he’s going to be expected to and he goes, “Oh. Why do you have my “Is this tissue used or unused? Well, hands of someone who can’t even remem- know. When you call someone, they ex- phone number?” why would I keep used tissues in my pock- ber to write down names with his phone et? But on the other hand, why would I numbers? keep unused tissues in my pocket?” I’m still waiting for the day when phone Your coat has a million pockets, which numbers are more descriptive of the peo- you think is really cool when you fi rst buy ple who have them, rather than being ran- it, but you forget that some of the pockets domly-assigned numbers. They should be even exist, so one day you fi nd yourself like email addresses, so you could at least pulling out things that might not even nec- have some clue. (“Who’s FunnyFace613? essarily be from last year. Like I just found Is that a perspective employer, or the shul a pocket calculator in my fall jacket. When president?”) on earth did I carry around a pocket calcu- And what if this number doesn’t even lator? Was I an accountant? How old is belong to the person who gave it to you? this jacket? What if you got this number from a mutual So basically, you’re putting things in third person, and that was the person you your pockets that you’re never ever going ran into? Now you have two names you to fi nd come Pesach time. Are you going to don’t know. And in fact, chances are this search an interior zippered pocket with a is what happened, because if the number candle in one hand? belonged to the person you were actually My weekday winter coat has at least 9 talking to, you probably would have done pockets that I know of, including two that that thing where one of you calls the other, I have absolutely no idea how to access and then you both have each other’s num- while I’m wearing the coat. They’re inside bers in your phone. the coat, protected by a zipper that goes up So where do you go from here? and down, and the pocket is to the front of Well, for one, there are a lot of services the zipper. Am I supposed to reach around where you can type in a random phone my back to put my hand in? number, and they’ll tell you that: But the most perplexing thing to fi nd is 1. They have no idea who it is, but a phone number scrawled on a piece of pa- 2. For some money, they might be able per. That’s it. No name, just a phone num- to tell you more about the person, based ber. Whose number is this? Why did I fi nd on all the confi dence they instilled in you it important enough to write this number, by not giving you a single piece of informa- but not important enough to write down tion so far, although whose number it was? 3. They’ll give you helpful clues, like, “Nah, I’ll remember. How could I not? “Did you go to high school with this per- It’s pretty important!” son?” (“I don’t know! You tell me!”) On the other hand, if it’s important, why 4. They’ll also ask, “Did you get a call didn’t I put it into my phone? After all, isn’t from this person?” (“NO. If I did, this that what most people do nowadays? Be- wouldn’t be an issue.”) cause if you write a number on a piece of 5. They’ll try to sell you services where paper, you might lose the number. Where- can hire a private detective to stalk this per-

Mordechai Schmutter is a weekly humor columnist for Hamodia, a monthly humor columnist for The Jewish Press, and has written three books, all published by Israel Book Shop. He also does freelance writing for hire. You can send any questions, comments, or ideas to [email protected]

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 73 Side-Splitting Stand-Up

A man in Vietnam was hospitalized after doctors realized that he had a pair of scissors in his digestive system that had been left there by a previous surgery that he had 18 years ago. I mean this guy is– so James lucky. Corden Come on, free scissors!

The sad part is after they sewed him up the second time the doctor was like wait, “where’s my watch?” - James Corden

d for the guy If you feelell badb bada for for the the guy guy d him who didn’t know he had scissors inside him, imagine being the guy- Jamesstanding Corden behind him in the TSA line.

Amazingly, he rarely suffered any pain over those 18 years. But from time to time he did get a bit snippy. - James Corden

Donald Trump is reportedly having multiple disagreements with his De- fense Secretary pick, James “Mad Dog” Mattis. You know you’re in trouble when a guy named Mad Dog is telling you to take it down a notch. – Conan O’Brien

Due to slow sales, Apple CEO Tim Cook has been given a 15 percent pay cut. Or as Cook is spinning it, he’s coming out with a thinner more lightweight wallet. - Conan O’Brien

Today marks the 10-year anniversary of the iPhone. The Samsung Galaxy Note 7 even celebrated with a fi reworks display. - James Corden

More than 60 cities around the world celebrated the 16th annual No Pants Subway Ride yesterday. Or as that one guy on your train calls it, “Sunday.” – Seth Meyers

Later this month, Google will be testing its new self-driving minivans. The vehicles can do all the functions of a human driver, except wonder, “Wow, how did I end up driving a minivan?” - Conan O’Brien

74 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 Down See solution in this issue Star Seers 1. Winona Ryder’s mom in “Mermaids” 35. Item that “Saved” Slater or Screech 2. Angel’s headwear 36. Loeb’s #1 hit 3. Ugandan tyrant 38. Oakland Raider Derek with a tattoo 4. Bat ___, Israel from the Book of Jeremiah 5. Palindromic Jewish king 39. Billionaire Idan or Sammy 6. Egyptian Peninsula 40. Black Eyed singers that said “Mazel 7. Cellist Weilerstein Tov!” in one of their hits 8. Day of Av for mourning 45. Like Abe (and probably Abraham) 9. Bit, for 42-Across 46. Echad, in Acapulco 10. Director Judd 47. Fuse together (a metal menorah) 11. Hodgepodges 48. Showed on Yes 12. Like one on the Mediterranean 49. Para ___ 13. The ones on Samson’s head gave 50. He’s not exactly Netanyahu’s best him strength friend 18. Mahane Yehuda to Ben Yehuda 51. Say mincha, e.g. Street, e.g. 52. Puts on, especially on Jewish 22. “Yofi!” (palindrome) holidays 23. “___ all make sense eventually” 55. End in ___ (rare occurrence for (words from a Rabbi) Kraft’s Patriots) 24. Possible Pharaoh who drowned 56. Costa that’s home of The Haim Jewish babies Weizmann Comprehensive School 25. Part of Teddy Stadium 57. Yom ___ (fast) 26. Physics Nobelist Isidor Isaac 59. Cry from a Simpson who once 27. Do work at this publication impersonated Krusty the Clown 28. One regularly getting this publication 60. Giant king who opposed Moses, and 31. Made like Bernie Sanders in 2016 others 32. Jerusalem City 61. Abbr. for an emeritus Rabbi 33. Mossad agent

Across 1. It’s an animal former NBA All-Star 47. Like a penny for tzedakah 6. Made like Dudu Fisher 26. One observing Shabbat, perhaps 48. Packer who often appears in State 10. It’s about half a yard 29. Des Moines has most of this state’s Farm ads 14. Mideast terror group Jews 53. Menzel with a great set of pipes 15. Bones used to shake ones pelvis 30. 13, for Jews 54. Jezebel’s idol like Elvis 31. “The ___ among the thorns” (The 55. Vandelay on “Seinfeld” 16. Hummus holder Zohar) 58. Goldberg of machinery 17. Two-time Super Bowl MVP 34. 59-Across only had 17 of these in 59. His final game was on October 2, 19. Talmudist who studied with Rav his career (and 542 HRs) 2016 Ammi 37. Like the start 17, 23, 48, and 62. One way to pronounce the truth 20. Silver or Perlman 59-Across 63. Sign from 37-Across 21. Prayer direction, from Florida 41. Part of TGIF 64. Competitor of 48-Across? 22. “On the ___ hand...” (Tevye) 42. Funny Samberg 65. Projectile shot at Indiana Jones 23. Current NBA All-Star 43. “I ___ Change Comin’ On” (Dylan) 66. Villain in Joel (Silver’s) “Die Hard” with a near identical name to a 44. He holds up Moses’ arms with Aaron 67. Aroma emission?

CAN YOU SPOT 10 DIFFERENCES?

14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 75 76 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 77 Classifieds & Real Estate TEACHERS LK Morah AM • Experienced/Grades 1-8/Small Classes Kiruv Yeshiva for ZISSA YIDDISHA KINDERLACH • Hillcrest Queens • Send in your Classified ads to [email protected] T: 718-217-4700 • FX:718-217-8739 [email protected] Three line ad: 1 week - $15 2 weeks - $21 4 weeks - $36 Four line ad: 1 week - $20 2 weeks - $30 4 weeks - $48 Five line ad: 1 week - $25 2 weeks - $40 4 weeks - $60 TEACHERS General Studies Degreed/Experienced/PM/Small Classes Grades 1-8 Hillcrest Queens Yeshiva T: 718-217-4700 FX:718-217-8739 Queens’s office looking for full time responsible sec- [email protected] EMPLOYMENT retary/office assistant – knowledge of excel is a must. Part time driver wanted for dry cleaning route. Fax resumes 347-338-2056 Part time mornings and evenings Secretary for Queens Kiruv Yeshiva Offi ce Call Marc 917-612-2300 SERVICES Computer literate • Responsible • Basic bookkeeping skills • Warm personality Young man with car available for Are you tired of your present job or out of work and all kinds of personal services. No job too small. Con- Monday - Friday • 718-217-4700 • Fax: 718-217-8739 • [email protected] looking for a job where you can make good money tact Elliott at 718-427-0180 and be your own boss. We are looking to hire a mar- Offi ce Administrator at Yeshiva Primary School keting/sales specialist. REAL ESTATE 210-10 Union Tpke • Hollis Hills, NY 11364 or 80-11 210th Street Jamaica, NY 11427 Job will require your own car and being computer/ Updated 2br apt for rent in KGH Tel: (718) 217-4700 • Fax: (718) 217-8739 • email: [email protected] internet savy. If you consider yourself a marketing Separate dining and living room area, double sink, website: yeshivaprimary.com professional, this is the position for you. Opportunity dishwasher, self clean oven, large bedrooms, to make unlimited income potential, Don’t delay. washer and dryer hookup Give us a call at 917-612-2300 917-612-2300 CALL NOW!! Natan 718 514-5888 Sentinel realty • We have others!! ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT F/T position available in a busy office in KGH. Large One Bedroom Apartment in Lawrence. Must be fast-paced with excellent administrative, Spacious Living Room/Dining Area. Lots of Closet multitasking, and organizational skills. and storage Space. Underground Parking. Close to Duties include data entry, filing, answering phones, train. Motivated Seller $118,000. replying to emails and other office tasks as required. Call 917-299-8082 Great opportunity for the right candidate. Email resume to [email protected] Large private bedroom available for rent in all male house in the heart of KGH. House is clean, quiet, Real Estate Investment and Development firm based non-smoking, SS/SK. Centrally located, minutes out of Queens seeks motivated individuals to join from multiple shuls, shopping, and bus stops. $700 a Acquisitions team. High Commissions, no splits. month plus utilities. [email protected] • 718-285-0931 Email [email protected] for more details.

78 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017 14 Tevet 5777 • Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] 79 80 QueensJewishLink.com • 718-880-2622 • [email protected] Vol. VI No. 2 (#194) • January 12, 2017