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ast Thursday, a bipartisan group Lof twenty-six Senators co-spon- soring the Nuclear Weapon Free SEE BACK COVER Iran Act of 2013 – thirteen Demo- crats and thirteen Republicans – formally unveiled the bill which would add sanctions against Iran if it does not meet the terms of the agreements being drafted in Gene- va. Rumors indicated that the bill would allow Israel to attack Iran Winter Dresses Up the Montefi ore Windmill in Jerusalem and that Congress would back that PHOTO CREDIT: MECHAYA RUTH READ move. It turned out that the rumors were wrong. The measure would Celebrating Project Ezrah’s CONTINUED ON P. 12 NJ Senator Frank Menendez See Ad on Page 3 Community of Active Partners Open Orthodoxy: Pushing the By Susan Alpert and Elizabeth Kratz Envelope or Crossing the Line? eaneck, NJ—Over 500 guests Tbraved snowy weather and By Jeanette Friedman slick roads to attend Project Ez- TOURO COLLEGE rah’s recent annual dinner. The ipples are currently radiating event honored those who have Raround the Modern Orthodox 'RADUATE 3CHOOL been so extremely helpful both fi - community in response to bold OF *EWISH 3TUDIES nancially and with acts of chesed, moves made by colleagues of Rab- See Ad on Page 65 beginning with the Project Ezrah bi Avi Weiss and the students from Board and staff taking a moment the controversial yeshiva he found- to honor the memory of an Ish ed in Riverdale, Chovevei Torah Chessed, Ted Mirkhani, z”l. (YCT). The president of the yeshiva Jonathan Gellis, the evening’s is Rabbi Asher Lopatin, who also Rabbi Yosef Adler speaking at Project serves as the spokesman. He is the CONTINUED ON P. 22 Ezrah Dinner CONTINUED ON P. 14 Rabbi Shmuel Goldin Check out our Remembering Ted Produce & Frisch Tops Prices! Mirkhani - An Ish Chesed TABC to Take By Elizabeth Kratz See Ad on Page 5 Emunah/ nglewood—“When Eone leaves behind fam- Rubinstein ily, friends and associates who perpetuate his val- Tournament ues, that person will al- Now Serving ways be amongst us,” said risch and TABC, two long-time Bergen County! Rabbi Yossie Stern, execu- FBergen County rivals, met Never visit a mechanic tive director of Project Ez- for the Tier 1 Championship of rah. This description was the 2013-2014 Emunah/Rubin- again! We pick up your car one of many heartfelt trib- stein Tournament, a meaningful and provide a free loaner! utes poured out this week Ted Mirkhani A”H , right, with his wife Shira, tzedakah event spearheaded by Call 917-915-7300 as people heard of the pass- center, accepting an award together with Flatbush Coach Avi Borenstein former Teaneck Mayor Kevie Feit (left) at Mayer Scharlat guarding Gabe Leifer See Ad on Page 81 CONTINUED ON P. 27 2008 Ezrah Dinner. CONTINUED ON P. 65 - Photo Credit - Lisa Appelbaum Please join us to support our community’s school for Jewish children with special needs 2014 Benefi t Dinner years of remarkable achievements of the heart 32 – לב Celebrating
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There are reports that Moham- MK Hana Sweid (Hadash) has asked madreza Bahonar, a prominent Iranian Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein (Likud) to lawmaker who had previously been cit- place a Christmas tree “at the entrance ed by the Washington Post as a conserv- [to the Knesset], or another visible place, ative supporter of negotiations, recent- as you see fi t.” Sweid said this was not a ly fl oated the possibility that I ran may political statement and also proposed a pursue not just 20% but 60% enrichment bill to shut down the Knesset on Christ- should talks break down. mas, New Years and Easter. The request is under consideration. CERN Nuclear Research Center Accepts Israel Turkey Picking Fights with U.S. (JNS.org)—The governing council of (TIP)Ankara—An escalating politi- CERN, the European Organization for cal struggle between two dominant Is- Nuclear Research, has voted unanimous- lamist camps inside Turkey has rocked ly in favor of allowing Israel to become a The Premium the country and threatens to desta- full member of the atomic research cent- bilize the ruling Justice and Develop- er. Israel is the fi rst non-European coun- DDestination ment (AKP) government, and is spilling try to become a full member. As a full over into the U.S.-Turkey relationship, CERN member, Israel will able to partici- for Family Retreats • Anniversaries The Turkish actions have generated a pate in experiments with CERN’s particle Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Sheva Brochos sharp rebuke from Washington con- accelerator. Israel has been an associate cerning “continued false and slander- member since 2011, and Israeli scientists Shabbatons • Day Camps ous attacks” on U.S. offi cials. A corrup- have already participated in several oth- tion probe conducted largely by fi gures er CERN experiments. linked to the U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen (based in Saylorsburg in the Poc- Spanish Duke Issues Apology ono Mountains), whose followers have For Inquisition of Jews broad sway inside Turkey’s state and (JNS.org)—The Duke of Medina Si- Dates: May 1 – June 13 non-state institutions, has caught top donia, Alonso González de Gregorio y BOOKING UP FAST! August 29– October 31 fi gures in the AKP hierarchy on a range Álvarez de Toledo, has formally apol- MANY DATES ALREADY TAKEN of charges. AKP fi gures, including Prime ogized to the president of the Jewish Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, blame community of Gibraltar for atrocities a “dirty operation” and purged Gu- committed during the expulsion of the len-linked fi gures from police and se- Jewish community from Spain in the curity services—25 police chiefs were 15th century, and the subsequent expul- dismissed last week. The U.S. State De- sion of Jews from Gibraltar. The second SAMMY & LEA TRENCHER DINING HALL partment pushed back, condemning Duke of Medina Sidonia, Enrique Perez “the continued false and slanderous at- de Guzman y Fonseca, had expelled Jews tacks by some elements of the Turkish from Gibraltar in 1476 after they had es- media against our Ambassador, other caped there from Spain. Gibraltar is cur- senior U.S. offi cials, international me- rently a sovereign of Great Britain, which dia representatives, and private Ameri- had captured the area from Spain in 1704 can citizens and groups,” and have de- during the War of the Spanish Succes- it all begins with facilities manded that the Turks “disavow and sion. & service that meets your condemn such attacks.” Israel gets $173M for Missile Saudi Prince Shakes Hands with Defense in U.S. Budget Deal every need & beyond! Rabinovich, Slams U.S. Policy ONLY (JNS.org) Israel will receive hundreds 1HOUR (JNS.org) Prince Turki al-Faisal of Sau- of millions of dollars in additional mili- FROM di met with Israeli offi cials at the World tary aid for missile defense as part of the NYC Policy Conference in Monaco last week new bipartisan budget deal agreed on by and publicly shook hands with former U.S. lawmakers on Dec. 10. In addition FULLY INCLUSIVE Israeli Ambassador Itamar Rabinovich. to the annual $3.1 billion in military aid He also held a discussion with MK Meir Israel receives a year, Israel will receive COMPETITIVE RATES INCLUDING ALL MEALS Sheetrit. The report added that Sheetrit $173 million in military aid for U.S.-Isra- • Accommodation between 50-400 • 50 acre nature area invited al-Faisal to speak to the Israeli el cooperative missile defense programs. • Baseball and soccer fields Knesset. During his remarks at the con- This includes $34 million in upgrades for • Air conditioned/heated dining hall and ference, al-Faisal was critical of U.S. Presi- the Arrow long-range anti-missile sys- social hall with seating for up to 400 • Full size hockey rinks dent Barack Obama’s Mideast policy. tem and $22 million for another upper- • Newly upgraded private bedrooms • Regulation size basketball courts tier interceptor. The deal commits $117.2 and baths • Nine tennis courts Iranians Brag They Can Get Right million for further development of the Back to Business As Usual • New Gymnasium • Heated Swimming Pool David’s Sling mid-range ballistic missile • Newly refurbished infirmary TIP—Iranian Foreign Minister Ja- defense system, jointly developed by Is- • Private scenic lake & beach vad Zarif boasted yesterday that Iran rael’s Rafael Defense Systems and Amer- Make your memorable event today could resume enrichment of uranium ican-based Raytheon. The deal supports at the beautiful Camp Kaylie to 20 percent purity in less than a day, President Barack Obama’s request for the latest in a string of statements from $220 million for Israel to buy more Iron FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 718-686-3261 top Iranian offi cials that risk deepening Dome short-range batteries and $15 mil- WWW.CAMPKAYLIE.ORG • [email protected] concerns not just about the Islamic re- lion for Iron Dome parts. public’s broad intentions but more spe- cifi cally about the asymmetrical struc- If Framework is in Place, ture of the recently announced Joint Peace Talks will Proceed Plan of Action (JPA). The JPA requires Iran Ramallah—Saeb Erekat, chief Pales- to at most freeze parts of its program tinian negotiator, said last week that the but mandates that the United States Palestinians are ready to extend the cur- and its allies reduce fi nancial sanctions. rent talks with Israel beyond an April It positions Tehran to irreversibly pock- deadline if a framework agreement is in et billions in relief even as it maintains place. It is the fi rst time they endorsed the ability to restart its atomic program the U.S. idea of seeking a preliminary— from where it was partially frozen, and not fi nal—peace deal. The Americans are at any time. Zarif’s comments are likely to punctuate concerns over the lopsided CONTINUED ON P. 10 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 9 NEWSBRIEFS CONTINUED FROM P. 9 The Anti-Israel Boycott Spain Draft Law Could Grant Actor Sean Penn Meets Movement Is Losing Sephardic Jews Citizenship Jacob Ostreicher looking for preliminary deal. Erekat said, Ha’aretz reports that this week four (JNS.org) Spain’s ruling Popular Party (JNS.org)—Actor Sean Penn, a lead- “We are not talking about a peace treaty major port operators, including three (PP) has submitted a draft law that could ing advocate for the release of Jacob on the 29th of April. We are talking about European companies, bid to operate grant citizenship to descendants of Jews Ostreicher was with Ostreicher follow- a framework agreement.” A framework marine terminals in Israel. The Irish expelled from Spain during the Spanish ing a humanitarian operation to free deal is one he described as a compre- company Covidien offered to buy the Inquisition. The possibility of the bill the Jewish businessman from the cor- hensive agreement that could be turned Israeli medical device company Given was fi rst announced last year by Spanish rupt prosecution and imprisonment into a detailed peace treaty in six to 12 Imaging. Apple bought PrimeSense, an Justice Minister Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon. he was suffering in Bolivia. Ostreich- months. Asked whether the Palestinians Israeli high-tech startup. Carefusion, If the law is ratifi ed, eligible Jews won’t er, a 54-year-old Brooklyn native, trave- would continue the talks if that could be a San Diego company, bought 40% have to relinquish their current national- led to Bolivia in December 2010 to over- achieved, Erekat said: “Absolutely. …If we of Caesarea Medical Electronics. For- ities to become naturalized Spanish citi- see rice production and was arrested in reach a framework agreement that speci- eign direct investment in Israel stood zens. In April 2013, Portugal’s parliament June 2011 on suspicion of money laun- fi es the borders, the percentage of swaps, at $9.4 billion in the fi rst 10 months of ratifi ed a similar measure granting citi- dering and criminal organization. No the security arrangements, the Jerusalem the year, matching the total for all of zenship to Jews whose ancestors were formal charges were ever been brought status, refugees and then that is the skel- 2012, and is likely to exceed 2011’s $10.8 expelled from Portugal during the same against him, but he spent 18 months in eton,” he said. billion. period. prison before being released on bail in December 2012, after which point he had remained in Bolivia on house ar- rest. In May, Penn testifi ed on Ostre- icher’s case in a hearing before the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs’ Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations. UK Women Join JOFA Dinah Brawer, of England, attend- ed Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance conference in NY with a delegation and THETHE ThursdayThursday said that in Britain, steps towards equal- ity were permitted rather than active- January9,2014 ly encouraged. The British branch was launched in the UK earlier this year, SEVENSEVENHABITSHABITS 88PMPM where it supports the introduction of partnership-minyanim in the United Synagogue. Ms. Brawer said, “The idea is that if women insist on saying Kad- OFOFDEDEͲͲSTRESSEDSTRESSED dish, rabbis will say ‘Yes, they can say it.’ That is a great step forward. But when you contrast this attitude with that of the rabbis and leaders speaking at the PARENTSPARENTS conference, who said that we have to actively engage women and invite them in, you understand that merely permit- ting involvement is not enough.” Ms Leigh, a third- year at Manchester Uni- Howtoeliminate RabbiDr.LaiblWolf versity, said women needed to be giv- Dean,Spiritgrow—TheJosefKryssCenter,Australia en an even wider role within Judaism. “It needs to be accepted that a wom- worryand an’s status has changed. I would never OftendescribedastheJewishsynthesisofDeepakChopraand demand Orthodox feminism in a hare- di shul. But for a community that wants anxietyfromyour AnthonyRobbins,RabbiDr.LaiblWolfofAustralia,hasbeena it and is ready for it, there is no reason spiritualmentoranda worldwideteacherofspiritualityfora why it should not be considered ‘Ortho- dox.’” lifethrough generation. His expertise blends contemporary positive Good News from Met Council psychologywithancientKabbalahtofacilitatea‘behavioural’ mindfulliving. Metropolitan Council of the Jew- approachtolifetraining. ish Poor has reached agreements with New York City and State that refl ect the shared work undertaken by Met Coun- Lectures in over 65 cities a year, training people in the cil and various government agencies to discipline of mind consciousness and emotional intelligence address governance processes and in- ternal controls. The agreements will al- through positive psychology and the ancient wisdom of low Met Council to receive funding for Kabbalah. He is a psychologist, lawyer, and Hassidic Rabbi as its programs through city and state con- tracts. They have been working hard well as a successful author. His best selling Random to restore the credibility and integrity HouseͲpublishedpersonalgrowthtext,PracticalKabbalahhas of the organization to ensure that Met Council is able to continue to serve the been translated into many languages and is considered the thousands of New Yorkers in need of es- sential human services. Met Council is finest text on the layman’s understanding of the TheMoriahSchool “fully committed to implementing ad- 53S.WoodlandStreet psychoͲspiritualteachingswithinKabbala. ditional measures and to make certain that our governance and operational Englewood,NJ07631 structures are second to none so that www.moriahschool.org the government agencies we work with, as well as our donors, program partners, Forfurtherinformationpleasecontact: employees and volunteers, can trust ErikKesslerat[email protected] that we are meeting the highest stand- ards of integrity.” 10 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM YARCHEI KALLAHShabbat of Inspiration Please join NCSY and 312 public school students from across North Words of Inspiration America at NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah Friday Night Shabbat in New Jersey Keter Torah DECEMBER 27-28, 2013 Rabbi Micah Greenland International Director, NCSY Shabbat Morning Rinat Yisrael Bnai Yeshurun R abbi Moshe Benovitz Rabbi Micah Greenland Director, NCSY Kollel International Director, NCSY Dean, NCSY Summer Ohr HaTorah Zichron Mordechai Rabbi Yaakov Glasser Rabbi Ethan Katz Director of Education, NCSY Regional Director, NJ NCSY SAVE THE DATE! Bergen County Scholarship Dinner HONORING Rabbi Yaakov and Dr. Ruth Glasser NCSY thanks Congregation Keter Torah and the Teaneck/Bergenfield community for opening February 17, 2014 their synagogues and homes to the students of Keter Torah, Teaneck, NJ NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah. NCSY is the international Sponsored in part by www.ncsy.org youth movement of the OU Touro’s Lander Colleges Yarchei Kallah is sponsored in part by NCSY’s Ben Zakai Honor Society 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 11 NEWS the right thing and abide by UN security res- Obama discouraged Congress from pass- Council, plus Germany, to continue testing Bi-Partisan olutions and the Geneva agreement.” ing such legislation during the six-month Iran’s commitment to a diplomatic solution. The bill outlines and establishes signif- window for negotiations, during which time Iran and the P5+1 nations resumed ex- Sanctions icant consequences so that Iran does not the U.S. softens sanctions in exchange for a pert-level talks in Geneva last Thursday. breach the Geneva agreement. Iran is re- reduction in Iranian uranium enrichment The Senate legislation is not likely to come Bill Heads quired to suspend and cease its nuclear and access for international inspectors. to a vote until sometime in January. White weapons program and the capability to re- At his fi nal scheduled year-end press con- House spokesman Jay Carney said President Toward Veto start it. “It is realistic,” said Adam Sharon. ference last week, Obama said, “I’ve heard Obama would veto any bill containing new “The legislation recognizes the years and arguments, well, but this way we can be as- sanctions. CONTINUED FROM P. 1 decades of denial and deceptions that have sured and the Iranians will know that if ne- “We don’t believe this proposal is neces- come out of Iran. It makes sure we are oper- gotiations fail even new and harsher sanc- sary, as I think we have made clear, and we expand restrictions on Iran’s energy sector. ating with a strengthened hand in these ne- tions will be put into place. Listen, I don’t have been discussing with members of Con- It also states that the United States should gotiations, although a diplomatic outcome think the Iranians have any doubt that Con- gress for quite some time. We don’t believe provide military, diplomatic and economic would be best. The onus and pressure are on gress would be more than happy to pass it will be enacted; we certainly know it’s not support to Israel if the Jewish state takes mil- Iran to begin in good faith.” more sanctions legislation.” necessary. If it were to pass, the president itary action against Iranian facilities. JLBC asked the Senator’s spokesman He added, “If we’re serious about negoti- would veto it,” Carney said. In an exclusive interview with a mem- about the infl uence of outside forces on the ations, we’ve got to create an atmosphere in The U.S. Treasury Department an- ber of Senator Robert Menendez’s senior development of this type of bill. “In gener- which Iran is willing to move in ways that nounced new enforcement actions against staff, JLBC asked about the bill introduced al, when working on such major issues, the are uncomfortable for them and contrary additional Iranian companies and individu- mid-December by Senator Menendez, (D- voices and expertise of a wide range of com- to their ideology and rhetoric and their in- als based on existing sanctions, a step that NJ) chairman of the Senate Foreign Rela- munities are involved.” stincts and their suspicions of us. And we led Iran to temporarily interrupt discus- tions Committee, Senator Mark Kirk of Il- The Senator is very clear about the reali- don’t help get them to a position where we sions. linois, and 24 additional members of the ty of Iran’s threat against Israel. “When you can actually resolve this by engaging in this Carney said the White House has been Senate, half Democrats, half Republicans. have that kind of hate speech and anti-Isra- kind of action.” in “regular and very direct” conversations “It’s a very bi-partisan Bill,” Adam Sha- el, genocidal speech, this is not something to Initial media accounts of the legislation’s with lawmakers, and reiterated that Con- ron, the senator’s spokesman said. The bill be taken lightly. This is language that cannot language were confused. The law’s word- gress could act quickly if Iran fails to comply. has not yet been scheduled for a vote, but be ignored. You cannot turn the other way ing was fi rst leaked in a post last Wednes- New sanctions, he said, could derail negoti- caused an uproar last Wednesday as details whenever you hear that kind of speech. day night to Foreign Policy magazine’s The ations and suggest “bad faith” on the part of were leaked, but those details were not in “The current sanctions, Senator Menen- Cable blog, which contained several factual the United States. the document. dez believes, brought the Iranians to the ne- errors, including an implication that the bill Two Republicans who have signed on The focus of the Menendez-Kirk Bill is gotiating table. The credible threat of future authorize[d] military force against Iran. to the legislation -- John McCain and Lind- to establish a “red line “and to act as an ac- sanctions requires that Iran cooperate and “The American people rightfully distrust sey Graham -- spoke in the Senate about the tive warning. If Iran violates the agreements act in good faith during future negotiations. Iran’s true intentions and they deserve an in- need to maintain pressure on Iran. McCain signed in Geneva in November, 2013, and He notes that fi rst, the Iranians blamed the surance policy to defend against Iranian de- said it would be appropriate for Congress shows itself unable to abide by the agree- administration for enforcing sanctions; ception during negotiations,” Sen. Kirk said. to make clear to the Obama administration ment which requires that the Regime to re- now, they criticize Congress. It is clear that “This is a responsible, bipartisan bill to pro- and to Iran’s leadership that the “screws are linquish both the pursuit of nuclear weap- the burden rests with Iran to negotiate in tect the American people from Iranian de- going to tighten.” ons capability and the capability to produce good faith and verifi ably terminate the nu- ception and I urge the Majority Leader to “Shouldn’t there be some sanctions such weapons, the sanctions detailed in the clear weapons program.” give the American people an up or down that would kick in after a six-month period bill go into effect. Menendez colleague, Sen. Chuck Schum- vote.” which then the Iranians would know that According to Sharon, “the Bill gives the er (D-N.Y.) on Sunday refused to back away “Current sanctions brought Iran to the if they don’t reach an agreement then the President great fl exibility to continue to pur- from the bill. He is one of the leaders of the negotiating table and a credible threat of fu- sanctions would be more severe?” McCain sue the diplomatic track and seek the diplo- bi-partisan effort to hit Iran with stricter ture sanctions will require Iran to cooperate asked. matic outcome preferable to all parties.” It sanctions, despite President Obama’s recent and act in good faith at the negotiating ta- White House spokesman Carney also establishes future, prospective sanctions plea not to interfere in negotiations aimed ble,” said Sen. Menendez. “The Iranians last responded to a question about remarks by that the President has up to a year to imple- at stopping Tehran’s nuclear program. week blamed the Administration for enforc- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov re- ment. The bill, he said, is “an attempt to es- “There are many of us, Democrats and ing sanctions; now, they criticize Congress. garding efforts to reach a comprehensive tablish a benchmark,” and no new sanctions Republicans in this Senate, who believe the The burden rests with Iran to negotiate in nuclear deal with Iran, and the U.S. missile are to be put into effect now or in the im- best way to avoid war and get Iran to give up good faith and verifi ably terminate its nucle- shield in Europe. mediate weeks if the Geneva agreement is nuclear weapons is by ratcheting up sanc- ar weapons program. Prospective sanctions Speaking in Poland, where interceptors respected. tions, not by reducing them,” Schumer said will infl uence Iran’s calculus and accelerate for the missile shield are to be deployed by Critics of the Geneva agreement have on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” He pooh-poohed that process toward achieving a meaningful 2018, Lavrov said successful implementation said that while Iran may suspend active pro- the notion that the Iranians “came to the ta- diplomatic resolution.” of the Geneva agreement would remove the duction of nuclear components, it will sim- ble out of the goodness of their hearts.” The White House threatened to veto the cause for the U.S. missile shield. ply maintain its capability and suffer no He, too, believes that it’s logical that legislation should it come to President Ba- Carney said the U.S. position has not consequence for any failure or breach. The tough sanctions brought them to the table. rack Obama’s desk. changed, noting that an interim deal with Menendez-Kirk Bill provides an insurance “If they think they can ease up on the sanc- Voice of America reported that the pres- Iran is “not a comprehensive agreement and policy to prevent that and provides negotia- tions without getting rid of their nuclear ca- ident believes that U.S. lawmakers must al- not a resolution to the international com- tors with tools to insure that the best agree- pabilities, they’re going to do that. So we low the United States and other permanent munity’s concerns about Iran’s nuclear pro- ment is made. “The hope is that Iran will do have to be tough.” members of the United Nations Security gram.” Dr. Saul H. Lejtman D.M.D. P.A. Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Treating your family in a warm state-of-the-art comfortable environment FallBest WishesSpecial for a TakeShana Home Tova Whiteningand a Happy $350 and Health (Reg. New $675) Year! Implants • Veneers • Crowns Hours by Appointment Only 201.568.1190 120 County Road Suite 203 Tenafly, NJ 07670 [email protected] • www.TenaflySmiles.com 12 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM NEWSBRIEFS Chinese FM Visits Israel Tel Aviv’s Meir Park last week. It is a gi- Teaneck Teen Wins $40K lic magnet school where students have (JNS.org)—Israeli Prime Minister Ben- ant pink triangle located near Tel Aviv’s Science Prize. won a treasure trove of top math and jamin Netanyahu hosted Chinese For- Gay Center is in the shape of a giant Joshua Meier, a 17-year-old from Te- science prizes. He developed tech- eign Minister Wang Yi in Jerusalem last pink triangle and bears the names of aneck, won third place and a $40,000 niques to slow the aging of stem cells week. “Our two economies are highly prominent homosexuals persecuted by prize in the Siemens Competition in created in the lab — and used these complementary, and the mutually ben- the Nazis including Magnus Hirschfeld Math, Science and Technology. The techniques to try to slow the growth efi cial cooperation between us enjoys and Gad Beck. Hirschfeld was a ground- award, announced in Washington of cancer cells. A judge in a previous a very bright future,” said Wang. Netan- breaking sexologist and one of the D.C. after contestants spent several round of the contest praised Meier’s yahu said, “China has massive industri- world’s fi rst gay rights activists whose days presenting their projects to judg- work for providing a “potential solu- al and global reach. Israel has expertise institute and library were burned down es, honored Meier’s work in exploring tion that could open up avenues for re- in every area of high-tech… I think the by the Nazis, while Beck was the last how stem cells age. Meier attends the newed opportunities in regenerative combination could be very, very benefi - known gay concentration camp survi- Academy for the Advancement of Sci- medicine and cancer.” cial to China and of course to Israel….We vor. ence and Technology, a selective pub- both value education and families,” add- ed the prime minister. “We value knowl- edge and learning. We place importance on taking initiative and being entrepre- neurial, something which both Israel and China have in great supply.” Morsi Faces Charges for Conspiring with Hamas and Hezbollah (JNS.org)—Former Egyptian Presi- dent Mohamed Morsi, along with nearly three dozen Muslim Brotherhood lead- ers, will stand trial on espionage charg- es for conspiring with foreign terrorist organizations Hamas and Hezbollah to commit terror acts inside of Egypt. Also trial will be Muslim Brotherhood leader Mohamed Badie and Freedom and Jus- tice Party chairman Essam El-Erian. The Muslim Brotherhood leaders are charged with “collaborating with foreign organi- zations to commit terrorist acts in Egypt, revealing defense secrets to a foreign country, funding terrorists and military training to achieve the purposes of the international organization of the Broth- erhood,” Ahram Online reported. Specif- ically, the prosecution accuses the group of sponsoring terror attacks on the Egyp- tian Army and police in the Sinai Penin- sula following Morsi’s ouster. Morsi is also on trial for the killing of protestors outside of his presidential palace in De- cember 2012. Dinner With Obama Yityish Aynaw, Miss Israel, will dine with President Obama during his trip to Israel, the Jerusalem Post reports. Oba- ma’s staff reached out to the 21-year-old, who is the fi rst Ethiopian-born winner of the competition, to invite her to dinner- at the home of Israeli President Shimon Peres. Aynaw said she was “very excited” to have the opportunity to meet Obama, who she described had a “notable infl u- ence on her life,” as “someone who ac- complished things by dint of his hard work.” She thinks she may have been in- vited because she “the fi rst black Miss Is- rael to be chosen and [Obama] is the fi rst black American President. These go to- gether.” They also both consider Martin Luther King Jr. as a major infl uence in their lives. KISS Inducted into Hall of Fame KISS, the glam rock band headed by Israeli-born 2G Gene Simmons (whose parents were Hungarian Holocaust survi- vors) will be inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. They will be inducted to the Hall of Fame on April 10 at a cere- mony at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Gay Holocaust Memorial Dedicated in TA Israel’s fi rst memorial to the gay vic- tims of the Holocaust was unveiled in 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 13 NEWS teaching where the beis medrash is a com- would celebrate a child at any other bat at Bar Ilan and Rabbi Shlomo Riskin who Open Orthodoxy: fortable safe space, unlike those of certain mitzvah. has one partnership minyan in Efrat, and Rosh Yeshivas who say not every question Goldin responded that he would also Rabbi Daniel Landes, who agreed with the Pushing the should be asked, that some questions are celebrate that bat mitzvah, but would Lo- idea. Those three people are signifi cant MO not appropriate. patin celebrate the same-sex union itself. leaders… “It’s not normative, it’s an experi- Envelope or He did not feel, he said, that Open Or- Lopatin’s response was non-responsive. ment. No one is interested in throwing out thodoxy is a movement, but rather a new Other issues discussed included how to in- the tradition.” Crossing the Line? approach, one that is more open to the clude interfaith families with unconverted Goldin countered that when a view pro- world, and one that can make a difference. spouses in shul. Ahavat Torah’s policy, Gol- liferates on the basis of minority opinions, CONTINUED FROM P. 1 “Since all of Torah-true Judaism is meant to din said, is very clear. The Jewish spouse and when the vast majority of halakhic au- be open, to ask questions and struggle with can be a member as an individual, but not thorities disagree, that creates an expecta- point man of a new, highly controversial, issues in an open environment, like Mod- as a family. tion that this is legitimate, which puts pres- more “open” approach to Modern Ortho- ern Orthodoxy, we are part of the modern Lopatin believes that mesorah of To- sure on rabbis in communities who want doxy and he spends lots of time debating world.” rah mi Sinai should be more inclusive and to toe the line, who will then push back other rabbis who worry that the approach Goldin responded to Lopatin in much positive instead of pushing people away. and precipitate a response that would be is really a “movement” that is pushing the the same way as he did when he spoke to While Goldin agreed in inclusivity, he also much stronger than it would have to be. envelope too far, putting themselves out- JLBC at press time. He noted that the ap- indicated that there have to be bound- Goldin sees halakha as an issue driven side the main camp, or chutz la machene. proach is not what sets Open Orthodoxy aries. He pointed out, for example, that system, whereby a particular issue comes These issues and others were discussed (OO) apart from Modern Orthodoxy (MO). when a prominent alumnus of YCT ques- to you—there’s a situation, and you have recently by Lopatin and the former presi- Goldin, who, at times in the past has been tioned if Toras Moshe mi Sinai was given to look at the constellation of what is be- dent of the Rabbinical Council of America, considered left of the mainstream, feels by HKBH to Moshe, that is problematic. ing presented, the human dimensions, and the rabbi at Ahavath Torah in Englewood, that some of decisions on issues that the Lopatin said the person who said that was then you have to analyze the halakhic con- Rabbi Shmuel Goldin. Their conversation OO approach has made are pushing the no longer affi liated with YCT and is not in text and then make a decision. But if you took place on Talkline, the late-night radio boundaries, like recent decisions on part- a position of leadership any longer. “Lead- are agenda-driven, and say whatever the is- program hosted by Zev Brenner. Also invit- nership minyanim and gay individuals. ers need to espouse the basics, and we are sue is, I am going to push the boundaries to ed to participate was a spokesman from the “We do have to be sensitive to these is- in agreement.” OO, he said, believes that see how we can make halakha fi t our goals, Agudath Israel of America, who refused to sues,” he said, “but some of the things we Toras Moshe mi Sinai is essential to Ortho- you prejudice the system. do so because he does not consider Lopatin are hearing from proponents are already doxy, embracing Torah true Judaism in an He explained to JLBC, “While the issues and his colleagues Orthodox Jews. halakhically problematical.” affi rmative way. are not all equivalent, whether it’s gay is- Lopatin opened by explaining that Lopatin responded by saying that some Additional issues discussed included sues, women’s tefi llah, partnership min- when Avi Weiss thought about these issues of the stagnation in past approaches have partnership minyanim, the role of women yanim, agunot, interfaith, whatever it is, I 14 or so years ago, he defi ned it as creating been caused by fear, and that YCT is train- in shuls, interfaith marriages, studying with may even agree with some of the ways they a beit medrash where Yiddishkeit would be ing their students to create open communi- and learning from non-Orthodox rabbis or are handling these things, but each issue is open, where people would not be afraid ties. Where do they draw the line? The em- sitting on panels with them, gay marriage, unique, and one has to see what the rami- to ask diffi cult questions and not be afraid phasis needs to be inclusive. For example pluralism in Israel and more, although the fi cations would be to the halakha—would to deal with any issues. It would be a non- the daughter of a lesbian couple was cel- agunah issue did not come up on the air. it split the community? What will it do to judgmental beit medrash, where you would ebrating her bat mitzvah, and one focus- When it comes to the decisions on part- the halakhic process? And what will be the not be judged for the questions you ask. He es on celebrating the child who was raised nership minyanim, Lopatin pointed to Rab- described it as a method of learning and by two mothers as a family—just as they bi Doniel Sperber, head of the beit medrash CONTINUED ON P. 16 Interested in philosophy and politics? Care about the Jewish future? Spend two weeks this summer studying with world-class faculty at a top university in a halachic environment. Politics, Economics, and the Jewish Person A Tikvah High School Summer Institute at Yale University www.tikvahsummer.org June 22-July 6, 2014/24 Sivan-8Tammuz 5774 For current 11th and 12th graders. Admitted students attend FREE! APPLY NOW at www.tikvahsummer.org/apply 14 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 15 NEWS Open Orthodoxy: way, insulting. But if they are going to de- having this conversation about a process fi ne OO by being as meikel (lenient) as pos- that goes back millennia is because of the JLE Celebrates sible in every case, to make everyone hap- halakhic glue that holds us together. It is a Pushing the th py, that is not going to work.” process that unites the Jewish people. Peo- 28 Annual Envelope or For the moment, he said, Modern Or- ple will say to me that our Sephardic min- thodox leadership has been restraining its yan is so different. But the miracle is that Dinner Crossing the Line? criticism, because they are not anxious to it is so similar. We say the same liturgy, the read anyone out of the camp. “But at some amida is the same, and it’s all the same be- his year marks the 28th anniversa- CONTINUED FROM P. 14 point, the more public they become about cause we struggled with the process and Try of the Jewish Learning Experi- these boundaries without defi ning them… we kept it. The balance between change ence’s (JLE) founding as a grassroots, unintended consequences of such applica- it becomes harder for us to remain silent, and preservation is a delicate one, and you independent adult outreach organiza- tions?” and we will reach a point where we will have to healthy respect for the process it- tion in Bergen County, New Jersey. Its Unintended consequences? Doesn’t say, ‘Fine. Do what you want, but don’t call self. You cannot twist it to meet your goals, mission is to reacquaint Jewish adults that usually apply to war? “Unintended it Orthodox.’ If they keep pushing, by defi - there has to be a respect for the system as with their religious heritage through consequences are a result of every deci- nition, they will end up chutz la machaneh .” a whole. classes demonstrating the relevance of sion one makes. Let me give a perfect ex- This doesn’t mean these issues cannot “Each generation gets this gift from the the Torah in contemporary times, ex- ample. When I fi rst moved to Englewood, be explored. “For example,” he said, “I, and prior generation to apply it sensibly and periential programs, and Shabbat and Steven Listfi eld, the rabbi at Temple Ema- not all rabbis in my sphere, hold from Yoat- touch the hearts of our people and hand High Holiday explanatory services. nuel who replaced Rabbi Arthur Hertzberg, zot Halakha. I am in favor of it. These wom- it down to the next generation. It will be The JLE caters to individual needs, in- told me he was jealous of me because I en teach taharat hamishpocha properly, transformed on some level because of our cluding home hospitality and one-on- had a community, and people lived around and it doesn’t embarrass the women, it in- times and our issues and our application one learning. my shul, and that on Shabbos they walked creases the number observing it, and I have of the law. But the foundations have to be Since its inception, the JLE has around the community. He didn’t have it, no question about that. But it becomes dif- eternal. And what I hand down has to be touched the lives of thousands of un- because people didn’t live near the shul. fi cult to support them when other issues, authentic and recognizable as coming from affi liated families in Bergen County That’s when I realized that when the Con- like the maharats, are lumped together and the halakhic system. and beyond. As an independent, un- servative movement made a decision to let it becomes diffi cult to separate them in At a recent Jewish Orthodox Feminist Al- affi liated organization, JLE depends people drive to shul, it had the unintend- people’s minds. I am in conversation with liance (JOFA) conference in New York, Mrs. on the support of the community to ed consequence of destroying the commu- JOFA (Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance) Blu Greenberg, a JOFA founder, announced continue providing free, excellent pro- nity, because then they didn’t have to live but they are also pushing OO, so I want to the establishment of a beit din dealing with gramming to the broader Jewish com- near the shul. I am convinced that had the be clear—they are free to push that agenda, agunah issues. When asked if this beit din munity. leadership realized that this would have but they shouldn’t expect the mainstream would be given a chance to succeed, Goldin This year’s annual fundraising din- been a consequence of that decision, per- to accept them.” said, “I cannot predict what a community ner will take place on Motzoei Shab- haps it would have given them pause.” Goldin said that respect for halakha re- will do. Rabbi Krauss’ name lends credence bos, January 4th, 2013, at 7:45 p.m. at And as far as calling this approach, quires respect for the halakhists. In every to the effort. He is a person I have a lot of Temple Beth Sholom in Fair Lawn, which Goldin feels is more of a movement other fi eld you go to the experts, but when respect for, as do many. It will be judged on NJ. The evening will include an ele- than an approach, Open Orthodoxy, he it comes to halakha, everyone things they its merits and on whether or not the solu- gant meat buffet provided by PETAKS said, “I consider myself an open person, so are an instant expert. tions it puts forward are serious. There has calling it ‘Open Orthodoxy ‘as if Modern Or- “Admittedly, the halakhic process rais- not been an outright rejection, and time CONTINUED ON P. 25 thodox people are not open is, in its own es frustration, but the single reason we are will tell.” Everything you need to get to move-in day. 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M. Garelik of Milan NEW 718-528-0700 Leisure Time Tours YORK TOLL www.leisuretimetours.com FREE 800-223-2624 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 17 NEWS A Crown Has Fallen : Edgar M. Bronfman, 84 By Jeanette Friedman tions ignored them. Bronfman paid at- ganization, he secured billions of dollars tention. for Holocaust survivors and the agencies ew York—It was 1990, and in a place Bronfman and Singer took them to that serve them. Bronfman improved Nfar away, in a beautiful city called Sa- the White House to speak to President Jewish relations with the Vatican and rajevo, Bosnia-Herzogovina, civil war was Bill Clinton, who listened carefully. At convinced them to remove the convent raging and the city’s Jewish community the time, his hands were tied because at Auschwitz. And in 1991, while escort- was trapped between Christian and Mus- of international political protocols, but ing President George Bush Sr. through lim forces. In New York City, a World Jew- as soon as he could, Clinton and the late a Tropicana orange grove, he convinced ish Congress meeting took place in the Secretary of State, Richard Holbrooke, the President to get the UN to invalidate Seagram Building. Mega-philanthropist/ ended genocide in the Balkans with an their resolution equating Zionism with Jewish activist Edgar Miles Bronfman, air war and the Dayton Accords. racism. son of the legendary and aptly-named Bronfman was fearless. He spoke His offi cial bio says: “Among numer- Sam Bronfman (bronfi n is the Yiddish truth to power to the Soviets, so that ous honors conferred and leadership word for alcohol), and a formidable busi- they would release Soviet Jewry; to the positions earned over the course of his nessman, sat at the head of the U-shaped Israelis, who he sensed were falling too life, Mr. Bronfman received the Presi- table. far to the right; to Jewish leaders who dential Medal of Freedom from Pres- On his right sat Gerhard Reigner, for- were neglecting young people—and he ident Clinton; the Chevalier de La Le- mer secretary general of the WJC, and the up in Crown Heights and learned Daf poured resources and brains into Hil- gion d’Honneur from the government man who, in 1942, sent a cable to Rabbi Yomi with his boss daily. He was Bronf- lel and the Bronfman Fellowships pro- of France; the Justice Louis D. Brandeis Stephen Wise in NY, warning about the man’s right hand man in many ways, gram to train future leaders who knew Award from the Zionist Organization of imminent Holocaust. (“Received alarm- and the two were partners in shaking up Judaism, who understood how the world America; and honorary doctoral degrees ing report that in Fuhrers headquarters the world. Around the table sat Jewish worked. He also launched www.myjew- from Williams College, McGill Univer- plan discussed and under consideration leaders from every continent on Earth. ishlearning.com, which gets a million sity, Tel Aviv University, New York Uni- all Jews in countries occupied or con- Among them sat the two Jewish leaders hits a month. And while many Jews dis- versity and Hebrew University, among trolled Germany number 3½ to 4 million of Sarajevo—Ivica Ceresnjes and Yaak- agreed with Bronfman’s personal choices others. He served as the founding chair- should after deportation and concentra- ov Finci. They came to plead the case for in life, no one could say he neglected Clal man of the International Board of Gover- tion in East at one blow exterminated to the Jewish community, a neutral zone Yisroel in all its guises. nors of Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish resolve once and for all Jewish question in a place where Muslims and Chris- It was a 1970 trip to Russia that Campus Life and chairman of the World in Europe.” He once said, “Never did I feel tians were shooting at each other, but changed him. In one of his four autobi- Jewish Restitution Organization. He au- so strongly the sense of abandonment, not at the Jews. The Jewish Community ographies he wrote: “It was on those trips thored fi ve books: The Making of A Jew, powerlessness and loneliness as when I Center was providing human services to to Russia that my curiosity was piqued. 1996; Good Spirits, 1998; The Third Act: Re- sent messages of disaster and horror to both sides, but there was little food, wa- What is it about Judaism, I asked myself inventing Yourself, 2002; Hope Not Fear: A the free world and no one believed me.”) ter or electricity; people were dying be- that has kept it alive through so much Path to Jewish Renaissance, 2008; and The To Bronfman’s right sat Rabbi Isra- cause they couldn’t get their medications adversity while so many other traditions Bronfman Haggadah, 2013. el Singer, then WJC secretary general, so Cerenjes and Finci came to New York have disappeared? Curiosity soon turned Without Edgar M. Bronfman’s gener- a Torah Vodaas mesumach who grew to plead for help. Most Jewish organiza- into something more, and that ‘some- osity and leadership, the Jewish world to- thing more’ has since turned into a life- day would not be as vibrant and strong long passion.” as it is. He was unorthodox in many For many, Bronfman’s greatest accom- ways, but he was a powerful man who plishment, after convincing the Krem- used his power wisely. A crown has fallen lin to let the Jewish people go, was get- from our heads and his death is a great ting justice for the Holocaust survivors. loss. May his memory be a blessing and With the `World Jewish Restitution Or- an inspiration to future generations. Newt Gingrich Comes to Cedar Market Newt Gingrich and his wife Cal- lista held a book signing for his new book, Break- out: Pioneers of the Future, Pris- on Guards of the Past, and the Epic Battle That Will Decide America’s Fate, at Teaneck’s Cedar Market on December 17. Store own- er Yossi Holland- er described Mr. Gingrich as “very good, a very l-r: Callista Gingrich, Aron Hirtz, Newt Gingrich, and Cedar Market nice fellow- very owner, Yossi Hollander. warm and very charismatic.” chose to visit a grocery store rather than People from all over came to have a book store because, besides know- their copies of the new book, a work ing that he wanted to visit Northern discussing potential breakthroughs in New Jersey, he knew he wanted to visit relation to both their potential detrac- someplace different. A side benefi t was tors and potential benefactors, signed. the catered buffet for all customers by Gingrich, according to Hollander, Cedar Market. 18 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM PROFILE had been held (mostly on murder charg- Tzipi Livni: The Believer es) since before the 1993 Oslo accords, which was intended as a confi dence- By Ben Birnbaum nounced his intention to resign, couldn’t building measure. “If at the beginning of (With permission from The Washington Post) deliver. “We were not certain how much all these discussions, if you would have validity anything that could be reached asked somebody whether Netanyahu is The final installment with him would have,” Maen Rashid Arei- willing to release the pre-Oslo prisoners,” As Livni returns to the negotiating ta- kat, the chief Palestinian representative she said, “the answer would have been ble, she faces no shortage of skeptics who to the United States, told me earlier this no. When he made the decision, it was doubt this round of talks will succeed and year. “At that time, he was considered to clear he was going to pay a political price, hardliners who actively hope it will not. be a lame duck.” Instead, they hoped to his right-wing credentials, Netanyahu particularly in his own political base.” “We are marking 20 years from Oslo this secure a deal with Livni, whom they mis- stands uniquely positioned to sell a deal It wasn’t the fi rst time Netanyahu coming September, and we have seen a takenly calculated would win the elec- to an Israeli public that most polls show had enraged the right. His appointment lot of photo ops and a lot of meetings,” tion. is primed to support one. But whether he of Livni had done that months earlier. At says Israeli Deputy Defense Minister and Five years later, the success of new ne- is prepared to make the necessary com- the same time, many of Livni’s left-wing Likud central committee chair Danny gotiations will likely hinge on the ability promises is less clear and, to many Pales- supporters have questioned her decision Danon, who argues that Livni’s two-state of Netanyahu and the Palestinian leader- tinians, doubtful. “I know very well that to ally with Netanyahu, with some accus- vision is dead on arrival. “I think it will ship to overcome their mutual suspicion. Livni as a person wants peace,” senior Pal- ing her of doing so simply to save her po- fail either in the negotiations, as it did in And it may fall to Livni, who has the trust estinian offi cial Nabil Shaath told the As- litical career. the past, when Prime Ministers Barak and of both, to bridge that gulf. sociated Press back in February. “But at But for the time being, this team of ri- Olmert offered it to the Palestinians and For Netanyahu, breaking the stale- the end the decision is not hers. The de- vals seems to be working well. “She’s in they refused to accept, or it will fail when mate will require breaking with his past cision is up to Netanyahu and his inner and out of the offi ce very regularly,” says a the Israeli public will not support it.” and—as was the case for Livni—with his cabinet.” Netanyahu adviser, estimating that if Liv- Most Israelis, meanwhile, have long parents. The prospects for peace may rest, ni isn’t the minister to have the most face since moved on from the confl ict with “I know that on the Palestinian side, then, on whether Livni can persuade Net- time with the boss, “she’s defi nitely at the the Palestinians. Livni recalled meet- we have a group that there is no hope for anyahu to accept the terms that most eve- top of the list.” “He’s very glad she’s in the ing some of the leaders of the left-wing, peace with them, and this is Hamas,” she ryone agrees are likely. I had been told re- government,” this person says, arguing youth-driven economic protests that said. “This is an ideological group. They peatedly in advance of our interview that tongue in cheek that Livni’s diminished shook Israel in the summer of 2011 and see the confl ict from a religious point of Livni would not speak about the core is- political stature has enabled the new bon- encouraging them to speak out for peace view, not from a national point of view. sues in detail, so I asked questions in homie. “The relationship works well be- as well. “They said, ‘This is old stuff,’” she They are not fi ghting in order to create a code instead. I cited an interview she had cause it’s clear one of them is prime min- remembered. state. They cannot even say that Israel has given during her time as opposition lead- ister and the other is justice minister.” Livni welcomes the pessimism. “From a right to exist. OK, so they are out.” Abbas er in which, explaining her decision not Livni, too, seems at peace with the a pragmatic point of view, when we cre- and his allies, she argues, are a completely to join his government, she had said that new reality. “We are working together— ated great hopes and nothing came out of different story. “People say, ‘They are not Netanyahu was not willing to “pay the hours and hours of discussions about it, it led to violence,” she said. “So this sit- willing to end the confl ict.’ I know that price” of an agreement. Did she believe what is the best next step,” she told me. uation, in which we entered the negoti- they are willing to do so, but they are will- he was prepared to do so now? “He truly understands that we need to ating room and there are not high expec- ing to do so if they get what they want.” Livni pointed to the government’s re- tations, it’s OK. All I wanted is to just be Based on reports, leaks, and pub- cent release of Palestinian prisoners who CONTINUED ON P. 71 there and negotiate.” lic statements, what Palestinian lead- Much of the Israeli skepticism stems ers want—and what they are willing to from the failure of the 2008 talks, which give for it—is more or less clear. Should culminated with Abbas walking away there be an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal, RABBI A. S. TEICHER from a far-reaching peace proposal by Ol- it will almost certainly entail a Palestini- mert. But Livni argues that the situation an state on the equivalent of 100 percent was more complicated than the Israeli of the West Bank (and Gaza), with mod- caricature of yet another Palestinian lead- est land swaps to accommodate some Is- er missing yet another historic oppor- raeli settlements; a division of Jerusalem tunity. The talks that Livni led had suc- along ethnic lines, with an international 6,)5(,725$+ ceeded in narrowing the gaps between regime for the sensitive Holy Basin area; the sides considerably and had even led strong demilitarization provisions for the 7(),/,1 to understandings on some issues. “They new state; and large-scale compensation were making a lot of progress,” Rice says. and resettlement for the descendants of 0(=8=26 According to American and Palestinian Palestinian refugees (with only perhaps a offi cials involved at the time, Abbas and token number returning to Israel). 0(*,/26 other Palestinian leaders balked at Olm- Of course, whether Palestinian leaders ert’s offer less because they rejected the could bring their more hardline public to terms—though they certainly hoped support such compromises remains to 742 Chestnut Avenue Teaneck, NJ 07666 for improvements—than because they be seen. On the Israeli side, meanwhile, 201-836-8376 [email protected] feared that Olmert, who had already an- the situation is basically reversed. With FREE DONUT With Purchase of Extra-Large Coffee! 1406 Teaneck Rd (in shopping area at corner of State St. and Teaneck Rd.) Teaneck, NJ 07666 Phone: (201) 862-0062 PLEASE PRESENT THIS AD TO RECEIVE DISCOUNT 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 19 NEWS The Budget–and the Buck–Stops Here By Maxine Dovere erler of the Jewish Center of Teaneck institution may no longer serve a pur- ble sustainability problems, especial- about the effects of economic climate pose.” ly in young families. I hear conversa- n an unusual show of bi-partisan co- on one of the county’s oldest congre- Suggesting that organizations must tions about which bill gets paid which Ioperation since Obama became pres- gations. At 80, the Center is re-invent- “de-professionalize,” work harder, and month.” ident, the U.S.Congress agreed upon ing itself, becoming a place not only of aggressively develop a more focused Bergen County has established a and passed a budget that they say will prayer and classes, but one of events volunteer culture,” said Zierler, who network of Tomchai Shabbas food pan- prevent government spending and and exercise, of meetings and market- came to the Teaneck Jewish Center sev- tries, And Project Ezra has become in- still provide for America’ s immediate ing. en years ago “It’s not just about being a dispensible. “In some places in Monsey, needs. In the Jewish community, how- At one point, the center had as many synagogue. We need to become a mini they run their food pantries like facto- ever, many organizations already ham- as 1500 families. Now they number in JCC – to serve the 5000 families in our ries, the need is so great. He also said pered by cuts stemming from the Janu- the low hundreds. The effects of the our reachable community—to survive, that centers for food action are “always ary 2013 sequester and the nose-dive in budget cuts, combined with the local we have to have a lot of moving parts.” running out of food. I have to talk to a middle-class donations, had to pull out effects of the housing crisis are strong- Zierler told JLBC that the situation lot of people.” In addition, Project Isai- their red pencils again and cut already ly felt. is not unique. “Rabbis tell me they have ah has a clothing collection to assist greatly diminished budget lines. “We have to be very careful in terms requests they cannot meet—help with those in need. Project Ezra provides all The Murray-Ryan budget deal es- of programs,” said Rabbi Zierler. We tuition, emergencies, even mortgage kinds of assistance, from teaching peo- tablishes about $90 billion in spend- have to create programs that are free payments. Here, we have two popula- ple how to maintain their fi nances, ing and defi cit payments spread over to the participants but come from the tions: the worshippers and those using offering job training, resume writing a ten-year period—but allows some generosity of a provider. We do a lot of our other services. Some can’t afford courses, job hunts and they also offer increases in both military and domes- things in creative ways.” membership dues.” advice on how to dress properly, and tic spending through 2016. While the Zierler told JLBC that he has to “act Even with dues cut in half, an the clothing to do that. budget does not include dramatic cuts like a CEO” to make sure the bricks amount more in line with the local “The whole issue of relief needs to in many areas, it proposes an extension and mortar remain viable while assur- population’s current fi nances, many be analyzed,” says Zierler. “Centralized of the 2% Medicare cuts through 2022 ing that the basic spiritual needs of his cannot afford even the adjusted dues. planning is needed. There is too much and 2023. aging congregation are met. “We need “No one gets turned away,” he empha- replication….We have huge buildings Had the budget agreement not been business and revenue streams to do sized, “if they make a good faith effort, that are empty on Shabbat. The Jew- reached, the sequestration cuts sched- programming.” we will fi nd a way.” ish community must aggregate resourc- uled to hit in January, would have Like many in the philanthropic In Bergen County, some rabbis are es. We can’t make mistakes like leaving been much harsher, forcing communi- community, the rabbi is working hard- dealing with hardship cases. Many old- the lights on.” ty agencies that care for the poor, the er longer hours. He is trying to expand er members are managing, but only At the Teaneck Jewish Center, the sick and homeless to cut their budg- use of the Center’s space to house based on depleting their savings. Many Jewish tradition of ain shoalim al mi- ets even more. Bergen County has a meetings and conferences “to carry us have left congregations because they zanot—not asking about need when changing demographic because many over the other revenue streams” that could no longer afford dues. there is a request for food, is followed. of its middle-class families can no long- are missing. “We have moved from a generation “Every person is entitled to a one meal er pay their bills and mortgage defaults “Making the center more reachable of joiners to a generation of consum- equivalent. I keep gift cards for local are at the highest they’ve ever been. Es- for people at every level is important... ers. We have tried to create those ex- markets to give to people in need.” pecially hard hit are Orthodox families For the last fi ve years there has been periences which are compelling as por- Joy Kurland Director of the Jewish who have been trying to provide their a pattern of a strained philanthropic tal experiences.” He noted that people Community Relations Council (JCRC) children with yeshiva and day school community. ..I’m not afraid to be a holy over a certain age, even with a strong of Bergen County generally concurred education and be members in good beggar, I am not too proud to ask, and Jewish identity, no longer belonged to with the rabbi’s assessment. She told standing at their synagogues and local I’m always ready to try to educate. In a a synagogue. JLBC that “the economy is such that organizations. Those schools and insti- tough economic climate an institution “The numbers of people who drop people are impacted all over. We need tutions are suffering, too. must justify its existence. On the organ- synagogue membership later in life is to act as an advocate for the vulnera- JLBC spoke with Rabbi Lawrence Zi- izational level it’s a hard thing to say an staggering. People are facing impossi- ble.” Security Panel Suggests Spying Limits By Aliza Chasan vances in information and communi- along with risks to the countries rela- gestions because RGICT recommend cations technologies; increased glo- tionship with other nations and ability greater restrictions to prevent the gov- orty six recommendations aimed at balization of trade, investment, and to succeed commercially. ernment from compelling organiza- Fprotecting national security, advanc- information fl ows; and fl uid nation- The suggestions include limiting tions for data. ing foreign policy and respecting pri- al security threats against which the data storage so that the government Other recommendations toward the vacy and civil liberties, were given to American public rightly expects its gov- can only access it under certain circum- “creation of sturdy foundations for the President Obama on December 18 by ernment to provide protection,” accord- stances. The report also suggests that future, safeguarding…liberty and securi- his Review Group on Intelligence and ing to an RGICT statement. the government not be able to store ty in a rapidly changing world” include: Communication Technologies. In formulating their suggestions, the mass amounts of data, but rather only -Programs should only be kept se- The report, Liberty and Security in group had to keep in mind the best way be permitted to do so in light of a rea- cret if the program serves a compel- a Changing World, was created by the to protect the sanctity of the nation as sonable threat. Any government re- ling government interest and its abili- four month old group whose members a whole while protecting the sanctity quest of data from companies should ty would be substantially impaired if it are experts in counterterrorism, intelli- of privacy. To fi nd the balance between also, according to the report, be made were public. gence, oversight, privacy and civil lib- these two goals, the group had to ex- public by both the relevant company -Any information gathered must be erties. President Obama created the amine historical and anticipated risks and the government. Further, the word group in light of “unprecedented ad- to privacy, freedoms and civil liberties request is to be emphasized by the sug- CONTINUED ON P. 25 WE OFFER REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS 1245 Teaneck Rd. WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS Teaneck AND WE GO THE EXTRA MILE TO MAKE YOU Talleisim Cleaned - Special Shabbos Rush Service A REGULAR CUSTOMER 837-8700 20 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM NEWS The UN Conference on Genocide By Stephen Tencer The ICJ declared that all states must berg Trials established a new set of war stop genocide, in areas under their con- crimes, crimes against humanity, and ew York—The Convention on the Pre- trol and, as a community, worldwide. held authorities responsible for civilian Nvention and Punishment of the Crime Early warning signs must be recog- deaths. Afterwards another new concept of Genocide was adopted by the UN in nized, including strongly enforcing all emerged. The war’s losers would have to 1948 and it recently held a panel discus- forms of human rights everywhere. This pay reparations not to the victorious al- sion, From Prevention to Protection: The can be fostered by “public awareness lies, but to the civilians whom they had Genocide Convention 65 Years On to ex- and tolerance, and educating people victimized. amine its effects. to appreciate diversity as well as com- “The collapse of the USSR, in the late Several of the panelists said that the monality. … We must not be silent, but 1980s, opened archives on WWII and Convention had, for the fi rst time, de- rather must take action to stop hatred, opened the doors for more research on Deputy Secretary-General, Jan Eliasson fi ned genocide as a new class of crime demonization, and discrimination. We the Holocaust. New materials were re- under international law. The speakers re- must intervene when atrocities are be- vealed relevant to the judgment on Eich- agreement of countries with sometimes ferred with respectful admiration to Raph- ing perpetrated before they escalate to mann and concerning the actions of confl icting interests. An independent ael Lemkin, a Polish Jewish lawyer who genocide. … Nobody can do everything other perpetrators. These fi ndings were mechanism must be established. Clear- coined the term genocide in 1944 in his to eradicate the problems, but everyone brought to the world-wide public’s atten- ly early warnings include escalating vio- work, Axis Rule in Occupied Europe, and can do something. Genocide can be pre- tion by such works as ABC’s Holocaust lence and chaos.” warmly welcomed more recent genera- vented. The UN staff is now scanning mini-series, Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s Another pointed out that in addition tions of the Lemkin family to the event. the world to detect pre-cursors to gen- List, and Claude Lanzman’s Shoah.” to discrimination, “poverty is a breed- Lemkin had been instrumental in having ocide. We must also develop plans for In the 1970’s, Eisenstat urged Presi- ing ground of hate. And derogatory state- the convention adopted by the UN. early action, before the dimensions of dent Carter to authorize work on a U.S. ments, if allowed to spread, can lead ulti- Ban Ki-moon, UN secretary gener- the problem grow out of control. We Holocaust museum. The result, the Unit- mately to genocide.” She also noted that al, could not attend, but stopped at the must recognize setbacks and derive les- ed States Holocaust Memorial Museum “there can be ‘cultural genocide’ imposed Auschwitz-Birkenau death camps, to pay sons from them. We must fi nd mecha- on the Mall in DC, is one of the most vis- by the restriction of daily activities by to- tribute to its victims, on his way to Nel- nisms to enforce human rights and the ited sites in Washington, accommodat- talitarian regimes.” son Mandela’s funeral in South Africa. Pe- rule of law. And we must remain vigi- ing about 4,000 visitors per day, 3/4 of Mass murder has had a higher death ter Launsky-Tieffenthal, Under-Secretary- lant, courageous, and persistent in do- whom are non-Jews. toll than have all wars combined in the General for Communications and Public ing so.” “These concessions raised the bar for past century. In that period, 117 million Relations, proclaimed that “the Conven- A main featured speaker was Stuart E. individuals, private companies, and par- individuals have been the victims of tion was a direct response to the Holo- Eisenstat, newly appointed White House ticularly multi-national companies, and mass murder and genocide. These are caust.” Envoy to American Holocaust Survivors, all countries…. There are now a plethora more devastating because the elimina- A large group of intercontinental former Ambassador to the European of NGOs monitoring and urging enforce- tion of civilians is their goal. Civilians are scholars took months to work out the Union and co-negotiator of the Confer- ment of many kinds of human rights. their targets. Convention language, and defi ned gen- ence on Jewish Material Claims Against Militarized peace-keeping is improving, The case of Armenia was raised by ocide as “any of the following acts com- Germany (the Claims Conference). He utilizing regional forces to suppress vi- an audience member. He pointed out mitted with intent to destroy, in whole served as President Clinton’s Special Rep- olations. The International Court of Jus- that Armenia was the case study Lem- or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or resentative of the President and Secre- tice has jurisdiction over mass murders. kin used to develop his ideas. A Consul religious group, as such: killing [its] mem- tary of State on Holocaust-Era Issues Countries whose mass killings are over of the Turkish Mission to the UN object- bers….; causing serious bodily or men- and successfully negotiated major agree- now often convene Truth and Recon- ed, saying that Turkey is seeking to dialog tal harm to ….the group; deliberately in- ments with Switzerland, Germany, Aus- ciliation panels or courts. This has hap- with Armenians to reach a common un- fl icting ….conditions of life, calculated tria, France and other European coun- pened in over 20 countries in recent derstanding of the events during and af- to bring about [the group’s] physical de- tries, covering: restitution; payments by years. …These processes must continue ter WWI. struction in whole or in part; imposing states and corporations for slave laborers to advance. And wide-spread internation- A nearby third-fl oor exhibition on measures intended to prevent births ….; (mostly non-Jews); looted art; and restitu- al education must be supported on all the Holocaust consisted of large posters [and] forcibly transferring children of the tion of unclaimed bank accounts and in- human rights issues.” arranged in a highly traffi cked corridor. group to another group.” surance policies. Other speakers, who ranged the gam- The posters included one on the Univer- While Lemkin’s term was used in the Eisenstat said that since the Conven- ut from UN offi cials to journalists, spoke sal Declaration of Human Rights, a de- Nuremberg Trials, it wasn’t until the early tion’s adoption, there have been mass about current and recent genocides. tailed Timeline of 50 signifi cant events 1990s that about 30 people were indicted murders in Cambodia, the Balkans, They referenced mass murders and gen- that occurred between 1933 and 2007 and for genocide in the Balkans. After several Rwanda and Syria, among other locales. ocides in the Central African Republic, a map of Main Camps & Killing Sites Dur- plea bargains and some successful chal- The Holocaust shocked the world into Southern Sudan, Darfur, and Sierra Leo- ing the Nazi Era, whose source was Yad lenges, only 15 men were found guilty by confronting these problems because of ne. It was noted that out that “although Vashem., At the Palestine Exhibit on the various courts. Slobodan Milosevic, for- its unique goals spreading over all of Eu- not all countries have signed the Geno- fi rst fl oor, there was no cause listed for mer President of Serbia, died during his rope, its unique organization and mech- cide Convention, including the U.S., all the Israeli War of Independence, but trial in 2006, and so received no verdict. anisms, the fact that the perpetrators share ‘the responsibility to protect.’” there is reference to some of the “ille- In 2007 the International Court of Justice diverted resources from their own de- One speaker said, “The Security Coun- gal construction” in the West Bank and (ICJ) found that the Srebrenica massacre fenses to continue the mass murders cil has proven to be a poor response East Jerusalem. Viewers were left to draw constituted genocide. and its sheer scope and size. The Nurem- mechanism, requiring the unanimous their own conclusions. PESACH RENTAL Central Yerushalayim Mesilat Yesharim 17 New 3BR Apt., 130 meters Full Service Networking, POS systems, Nr Shuk, Shuls, BenYehuda, Geula & Web Development Let's Talk about I.T.! WiFi, New Appliances & Furniture PAYPAL & ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 347-776-1918 LQIR#JDUEFJFRP 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 21 LOCAL NEWS Teaneck Cinema Reopens By Aliza Chasan have been repainted, previous- manager Daniel Seraphin and ly covered art-deco murals have customers agreed: This was an s of December 20, Teaneck’s been uncovered, the fl oors have exciting occasion. “People keep ACedar Lane is once again been re-carpeted, 500 new seats saying to me, ‘I used to come home to a movie theater—the have been put in and the mar- here all the time and now the newly reopened and revamped quee out front has been redone. theater looks great and it’s beau- Teaneck Cinemas. The retro And even with all the new fea- tiful,’” Seraphin said. charm was refurbished and the tures, the ticket prices have The beauty comes from old affordable tickets have stayed, stayed low: $5 for all showings features uncovered and new but the new technology is state- before 6 p.m. and only $6 for features added. A tile mosa- of-the-art. The digital projec- seniors and children and $7 for ic at the entrance was uncov- tors are being used right now to adults later in the day. Latten fi g- ered, new reel-themed carpets show Saving Mr. Banks, Anchor- ures that the lower prices will line the fl oors and reels studded man 2, Frozen, Free Birds and Out garner enough additional vis- with renovation photos line the of the Furnace in the four-screen its so as to make it more profi t- walls. Also on the walls are piec- theater (the last two are sharing able for the theater to price low- es of art for sale by Paul de Ange- ple have protested Out of the moviegoers more interested in a screen). er than average. lo, a painter and Bergen County Furnace, a violent, gritty drama the fi lm. It’s still not number one Since its closure in Novem- People streamed in through- resident. about family, fate, circumstance, at the theater, though; the “su- ber 2012 and purchase by Mat- out the fi rst two days after the Not everything has been and justice. However, according perstar in terms of ticket sales” thew Latten in April 2013, walls theater was reopened. Theater smooth sailing, however. Peo- to Seraphin, that’s actually made has been Saving Mr. Banks. into their daily lives. For the last 11 years rah community of supporters. Celebrating Project Ezrah’s they have made a donation each month Lillie and Stuart Mentzel have held to Project Ezrah. Those who know Stan- leadership roles in Congregation Shom- Community of Active Partners ley realize how much his book, Seven rei Torah for over four decades. They Steps to ‘Mentschhood,’ is a testament to feel that the most integral part of being CONTINUED FROM P. 1 all he stands for. a member of a community is being in- Nechama and Yoni Greenfi eld, though volved, and that shows in their hearts of emcee, shared some of the results of Pro- ingly extended their hands to help their members of Congregation Zichron Mor- gold and their continuous willingness to ject Ezrah’s year. “During 2013, 120 Project neighbors. Each one of the 2013 hono- dechai, are really members of the imme- help. Lillie and Stu are pillars of chesed, Ezrah candidates, over 30% of candidates rees is very unique and very special to diate Project Ezrah family. Yoni, always and with their enormous energy involve served, found jobs through their interac- Project Ezrah; they have given fi nancial- with a smile and a joke, is the go-to per- themselves in so many of our commu- tion with the organization’s employment ly, but more importantly, they have given son for all Project Ezrah’s computer is- nity’s vital organizations, including the team. To this end, resumes were rewrit- of their time, they have shared their ex- sues and cries for help. Nechama and the Leah Sokoloff Nursery School, which ten, mock interviews conducted, em- pertise when needed, and they have tru- Greenfi eld children have always stepped they helped build, and Sinai Schools. ployer contacts made and career paths ly stood by and been stalwart supporters in to help with the Purim project, taking Elana and Marc Rothenberg are very reassessed when needed. of Project Ezrah and, through this organi- on the largest routes single- handedly. active members of Congregation Ket- “Project Ezrah also worked with 118 zation, of this community. Reshi and Yosef Isaacs were both er Torah and are engaged with both the families in 2013,” Gellis said. “That’s 8% The honorees are listed below: raised in homes where doing for others spiritual and social aspects of the shul, more families than those seeking help in Aviva and Gershon Distenfeld, mem- was more important than doing for your- consistently opening their home for shi- 2012. These families were given over $1.6 bers of Congregation Rinat Yisrael, are self, and it shows in their every gesture. urim. They also are strongly committed million dollars in fi nancial assistance, very involved in tuition affordabili- Therefore, they view Project Ezrah as to the quality and importance of educa- they were guided by Project Ezrah’s staff ty. They truly take to heart the plight of their shaliach and are grateful that fam- tion and in that regard are extremely ac- and social workers, and many received neighbors who are crumbling under fi - ilies in need can reach out to Project Ez- tive in their children’s schools, Noam, intensive and focused management of nancial obligations they cannot meet rah for help. Reshi and Yosef don’t stop; TABC and May’ayanot, where Marc is a their salaried income. All these efforts and, even more so, work tirelessly to fi nd they are also stalwart supporters of their board member. Marc is also a member of were focused on a single goal: a fi nancial- an appropriate solution. shul, Congregation Beth Aaron, Chai Life- Project Ezrah’s board, where his expertise ly and mentally independent and stable Chani and Jonah Fink believe that line, Hatzolah of the Catskills, and Sinai and insight is appreciated and valued. lifestyle,” he said. charity begins at home—which starts Schools. Nicola and Zvi Weiss became in- Rabbi Stern introduced Rabbi Yosef with Congregation Ohr HaTorah and con- Sarah and Daniel Lerer are warm, gen- volved with Project Ezrah because they Adler, recipient of the 2013 Rabbinic Lead- tinues on to Project Ezrah. They see Pro- erous and friendly people with a dedica- liked that it not only provides fi nancial ership Award. Rabbi Adler shared heartfelt ject Ezrah as the home team we all must tion to Klal Yisrael that sets an important support to friends and neighbors, but it words about Project Ezrah and a commu- support and rally around. example to their shul, B’nai Yeshurun and also has a large network of people who nity’s responsibility to care for its own. Faigi and Stanley Fischman, long our community. In fact, though the fol- donate their time and services. They are Nine couples received the Ezrah standing members of Congregation B’nai lowing day was their daughter’s bat mitz- active members of Congregation Ahavath Award, presented each year to commu- Yeshuruan and mainstays of Yeshivat Ben vah, they sincerely believed their place Torah, involved at The Moriah School, nity leaders who have uncompromis- Porat Yosef consistently put tzedakah was at the dinner, among the Project Ez- and volunteer for the CSS. Chabad of Fort Lee Enjoys Herbal “Buffet” orty women attended Chabad of Fort FLee’s “Blurbs on Herbs” Event on De- cember 18. Homeopath and herbalist Sara Chana Silverstein discussed the ben- efi ts of various herbs and the way they can be used to prevent and cure fl us and colds. She then guided all participants in making their own medicinal vinegar which can be used throughout the win- ter months. All attendees enjoyed a deli- cious buffet dinner and were thrilled to taste an array of samples from the Super- edibles Company. Each person further re- ceived individual samples to take home. It was a wonderful evening enjoyed by all who attended. Adriana Guidanian and Bennet Harmolin. Making individual, medicinal vinegar. 22 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM NEWS Teaneck “Pounds For A Purpose” Campaign Launching Jan. 2nd avis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C., Club ing Teaneck businesses. Weekly specials DFit NJ and Elie Y. Katz will host the will be announced on the offi cial Get Fit fi rst annual “Teaneck Pounds for a Pur- Teaneck website and Facebook pages at pose” to help residents get fi t while sup- www.getfi tteaneck.com and www.face- porting a great local cause. A common book.com/getfi tteaneck. Registered par- New Year’s resolution to “Get Fit” will ticipants can present their Pounds for a help participants shed pounds while Purpose Pass to receive deals in partici- feeding the hungry. The registration fee pating local establishments. Club Fit NJ will go directly to Teaneck’s Helping is offering participants a half- price three- Hands Food Pantry, which will provide month gym membership for $49.99 (a food to those who cannot afford to feed $99.00 value). their families. First, second and third place win- “Get Fit Teaneck is a great opportuni- ners in male and female categories will ty to lose weight, get healthy, bring the be awarded a cash prize as well as oth- The Teaneck Pound For a Purpose team posing in the law offi ces of Davis, Saperstein, and community together and help an incred- er gift certifi cates and electronics. All of Salomon (front row L-R - Renee Forte-Clarke, Janice Preschel - back row L-R - Garry Salomon, ible and worthwhile cause,” said Elie Y. the top three winners in each category Elie Y. Katz, & Moshe Kinderlehrer Katz, the offi cial organizer of Get Fit Te- will receive a free one-year membership aneck. to Club Fit NJ. The fi nal weight in must Those who wish to participate in the Gold Sponsors: Registered participants will receive be calculated by April 5, 2014 at Club Fit weight loss challenge must register online Club Fit NJ an offi cial Teaneck Pounds for a Purpose NJ. The top three winners in each catego- at www.getfi tteaneck.com and complete Davis, Saperstein & Salomon, P.C. Pass that will record weight loss progress. ry will be determined by the highest total an initial weigh-in at Club Fit NJ by Jan- The Teaneck Chamber of Commerce The Pounds for a Purpose Pass will also percentage of weight loss. uary 8, 2013. Participants who register on- HaonTech.com, LLC function as a discount card at participat- Registration is $25.00 per person. line must present their receipt at Club Fit The Jewish Link NJ during the initial weigh-in. Others who Packer Shoes wish to participate may complete their Teaneck VFW RCA Honors Sweeney and Benrimons registration at Club Fit NJ and submit a $25.00 check made payable to the Help- Supporting t this year’s Founder’s Dinner, the Rabbinical College of America honored NJ Sen- ing Hands Food Pantry. All participants Organizations: Aate President Steve Sweeney and Robert and Sheila Benrimon. The keynote ad- must either live or work in Teaneck, NJ. Teaneck Public Schools dress was delivered by Ambassador Ido Aharoni, Consul General of Israel in New York. There are three levels of corporate Bergen County NAACP sponsorship of Get Fit Teaneck: Gold $250, The Teaneck Community Charter Silver $100 or listing for $50.00. Anyone in- School terested in participating as a sponsor may Suburbanite contact Danielle Craft at Davis, Saperstein Teaneck Patch & Salomon, P.C. at 201-907-5000. The County Seat Newspaper (l-r.) Senator Loretta Weinberg; Steve Sweeney; Dean of the Rabbinical College, Rabbi Moshe Herson, and Robert and Sheila Benrimon. U.S. Universities Explore Israel Study Abroad Partnerships (e-jewish philanthropy, with permission) versity of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv University, Technion – Israel Institute of Technolo- hirteen senior offi cials from leading gy, Ben-Gurion University, the Universi- Tuniversities and study abroad pro- ty of Haifa, Bar Ilan University, and the grams in the United States arrived in Is- Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) in Herzli- rael earlier this month for a week-long ya, and met with top administrators and visit aimed at developing new study international student coordinators at abroad partnerships with Israeli institu- all seven institutions. They also experi- tions. The visit was organized by Masa Is- enced some of Israel’s high tech and in- rael Journey, a partnership between The novation hubs and visited several Masa Jewish Agency for Israel and the Govern- Israel Journey programs, including a so- ment of Israel, along with the Israel Min- cial justice volunteering and internship istry of Foreign Affairs. program in Tel Aviv; an intensive Ara- The delegation included deans, study bic program at the Givat Haviva center abroad directors, and other senior offi - for Arab-Jewish coexistence; and intern- cials from Brandeis University; Colum- ship programs at the Peres Center for bia University; Cornell University; Emo- Peace, the Israel Ministry of Foreign Af- ry University; Georgetown University; fairs, and Hadassah Medical Center, all Princeton University; Stanford Universi- of which are aimed at exposing partic- ty; Tulane University; the University of ipants to the diversity of extracurricu- California, Berkeley; the University of lar experiences and opportunities avail- Michigan; the University of Virginia; and able in Israel. The trip concluded with Yale University; as well as the Director of a summit aimed at developing concrete Education Abroad Programs for the Insti- ideas for new study abroad programs in tute for International Education. Israel in partnership with Israeli institu- Participants visited the Hebrew Uni- tions. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 23 NEWS The Moriah School Hosts NORPAC House Foreign Inaugural Camp Fair Relations Chairman Ed By Kellita Weber between the camps just from having Royce (R-CA) in Teaneck the representatives talk with her.” Oth- he Moriah School recently hosted its er parents also agreed that you got a re- ORPAC recently hosted an event for tact Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid to Tinaugural Camping Fair, where par- ally good sense of the different camps NRep. Ed Royce (R-CA) at the home continue his strong support of Iran sanc- ents and children came to learn about by talking to each representative. of Drs. Mort and Esther Fridman in Te- tions by allowing Senators Menendez Jewish day and sleep-away camps from Some suggestions to attract more aneck. This is the second NORPAC event and Kirk to bring the bill to the Senate across the area. Erik Kessler, director attendees next year, “host the camp for Royce, who was previously hosted by fl oor. of admissions, communications and fair in October right after the Chagim HR at Moriah School hosted the fair as because by now most parents have “a service to the parents to see all the signed up for camp already,” said camps at one time and not have to go Sandy Piontnica, a parent attendee. to lot of parlor meetings.” Stacy Budkofsky, representative from There were over 20 camps with rep- the JCC, felt that Sunday would be a resentatives eager to speak to attend- better day for more people to attend. ees and explain what their camp was As Kessler said, “everything is a learn- about and what niche they had to of- ing experience; it was a good experi- fer. Camp 613 wanted people to know ment.” they have a full-fl edged performance No doubt the camp fair was a suc- arts program for girls. Sara Younger cess. “All the camps presented so well,” from Camp Summer Playland came to said Piontnica, “Ask any parent who at- the fair in an effort to “reach out to the tended and they were thrilled with the Bergen County community.” service the fair provided them”. “It is Leslie Rebarbar, attended the camp an excellent forum to view my options fair with her daughter, Emma, who in one place,” said Sandra Yahalom, a is looking to go to sleep-away camp Moriah parent who was looking for a for the fi rst time this summer. “I did summer day camp for her daughter and a lot of research myself, but we came possible sleep-away camp for the fu- so Emma could see and talk to the ture. Joseph Stansky from Camp Meso- representatives herself,” said Rebar- rah said it best, “in the end, the kids win bar. “Emma could see the difference the most.” Rep. Ed Royce (Standing, Left) addresses NORPAC members in Teaneck Howard Jonas in Riverdale in October. Royce also discussed his position in He is the current Chairman of the House combating radicalism in the Middle East. Foreign Relations Committee who, along He previously authored bipartisan leg- with Rep. Eliot Engel (D-NY), sponsored islation that cuts aid to the Palestinian the Nuclear Iran Prevention Act of 2013, Authority unless it ceases its agitation which passed by an overwhelming 400- against Israel. He speaks often of his fa- 20 vote in the House of Representatives ther who, as a member of General Pat- earlier this year. ton’s 3rd Army, liberated the concentra- During the event, Congressman Royce tion camps at Dachau. Among prisoners spoke with attendees about concerns at that camp was host Mort Fridman’s fa- over the current U.S.-Iran negotiations. ther, Reuven Fridman. He explained that while sanctions in the Ed Royce is continuing his leadership House passed in July, the Senate has been speaking out in support of Israel in the met with pressure from the Obama Ad- House of Representatives. He has been ministration to hold off on getting out outspoken on the need to check Iranian their version of the bill. Senators Rob- aggression and halt its nuclear weapons ert Menendez (D-NJ) and Mark Kirk (R- program. Royce has also been a leader in IL) are looking to introduce legislation bringing attention to anti-Israel rhetoric that would impose harsher sanctions in and votes in the United Nations. He and the event that Tehran reneges on its deal his staff have traveled extensively to Isra- to halt enrichment for the planned six- el. This event for Ed Royce marks NOR- month interim negotiating period. NOR- PAC’s fi nal event of the year before Con- PAC has been urging its members to con- gress goes on recess for the holidays. 24 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM LOCAL NEWS Super Bowl Business: It’s the Economy… By Aliza Chasan night minimum stay. Payment for four um for a total of $7,430,940 in taxes. If the nights nets $151.80 in tax dollars. Addition- assumption is made that each of the 82,566 ergen County—This year’s Super Bowl ally, there are an estimated 150,000 hotel attendees will purchase one small draft Bis a confusing beast because it has two and motel rooms in the area. beer, New Jersey would make an addition- “owners”: New York and New Jersey. The The W Hoboken is not a unique case. al $49,539.60 if they charged taxes. Total, game’s host state usually stands to bring A standard double usually goes for $94 a New Jersey would make $7,480,479.60 in in several hundred million in revenue, night at the Howard Johnson Inn in Clift- taxes off of tickets and beer. This would tra municipal services costs the week of but with New Jersey acting as the physical on, but rooms are listed at $900 per night mean that neither the Jets nor the Giants the game. The NFL does not pay any of host and New York, in large part, as the cul- Super Bowl weekend. The closest hotel would pay any leasing fees for the year; that money back. Jim Kirkos, chief execu- tural host, things are a bit muddled. with rooms still available, The Rodeway in fact, they’d have credit toward the next tive offi cer of the Meadowlands Regional MetLife Stadium is in East Ruther- Inn Meadowlands, normally goes for $79 year. William Quinn, the state treasury de- Chamber of Commerce, said that revenue ford, N.J. and Secaucus, right next door, a night, but guests are paying more than partment director of communications, de- connected to the event will still outweigh has plans for ice sculptures, food trucks $700 a night for the two-star hotel the clined to comment on the issue. the expenses. and a beer garden. Manhattan, however, weekend of the game. The most afford- Outside of the stadium, however, thou- Additional expense comes from will have Super Bowl Boulevard running able hotels in the New York/New Jersey sands of visitors will purchase beer with a MetLife Stadium, which was partially down Broadway with concerts, autograph area have overnight rates of at least $300. 12% tax and quite a bit of prepared food built to entice the NFL to hold the Su- signings and a toboggan run. Thus, the Despite the game taking place at the in addition to meals at restaurants at a 7% per Bowl in New Jersey. While no tax dol- competition to attract tourists in town for Meadowlands, New Jersey won’t make tax rate. lars went toward the redesign or construc- the game makes it more diffi cult for New any tax money off of ticket purchases or MetLife and the Meadowlands sports tion, there are still associated expenses Jersey to get a sizeable share of the $550 concession purchases at MetLife Stadi- complex are overseen by the New Jer- being paid with tax dollars. The new sta- million predicted to fl ow into the econo- um. Normally, the New Jersey Sales and sey Sports and Exposition Authority and dium was bankrolled entirely by the co- my. Use Tax Act imposes a 7% tax on admis- its president, Wayne Hasenbalg, is confi - owners of the Giants and the owner of Even so, New Jersey proprietors of ho- sion charges and, in conjunction with the dent in New Jersey’s ability to make mon- the Jets, but the state has spent $250 mil- tels and restaurants stand to make a lot in 2% Sports and Entertainment Facility Tax, ey with the teams, media and fans stay- lion on improving surrounding highways the week of the game in spite of the com- there is a total tax of 9% on all ticket pur- ing in local hotels. “We’re not just sitting and constructing a new train station near- petition for visitor business. The State Oc- chases. But MetLife has a deal with New back waiting for the NFL or others to say, by. The original stadium was built in the cupancy Fee imposes a tax on the rent- Jersey. In place of taxes, it pays around $6 ‘OK, New Jersey, here’s what you’re get- late 1970’s for $75 million. That cost, in ad- al of hotel and motel rooms equal to million a year in leasing fees because the ting,’” Hasenbalg said. “We’re working as dition to other related costs over the years, 5% of the rental fee. Area hotels are, and stadium is on state owned land. closely as we can, but we’re also going to has left taxpayers still paying off $100 mil- have been, booked solid at premiums for The government can impose the tax- try to maximize the benefi t to New Jersey lion in bonds for what is now a parking months now. Hotels have been able to es if they deduct the amount earned from from an economic perspective, to help lo- lot. But, the stadium owners are not re- jack prices up to 800% of their regular val- the rent. In this case, with tickets initial- cal vendors and people who provide ser- quired to collect taxes on stadium parking. ue and impose minimum stays of multi- ly sold at retail price to raffl e winners for vices.” A defi nitive accounting of the econom- ple nights. The W Hoboken Hotel, for in- $1,000 each, New Jersey would make $90 Secaucus Mayor Michael Gonnelli has ic impact of the Super Bowl on the state stance, is charging $759 a night with a four for each ticket sold in the 82,566 seat stadi- estimated that there will be $50,000 in ex- won’t be clear until after the game. Security Panel ously considered for the post. -A privacy and civil liberties policy Suggests offi cial should be appointed to the Na- tional Security Staff Spying Limits -The NSA should not attempt to weaken commercial encryption CONTINUED FROM P. 20 meant to secure information. They should encourage greater encryption used exclusively in relation to the na- by all American companies. tional security of the U.S. and its allies. After President Obama went over Information gathered about other ac- the recommendations with the group, tivities not related to security must he noted the value of it as individuals not be used. of divergent backgrounds had come -Software that can collect targeted to a consensus on all 46 recommenda- data rather than bulk-data collection tions. The President intends to spend should be created and used. the next several weeks going over the -The director of the National Secu- report with members of his national rity Agency should be a Senate con- security team to determine which rec- fi rmed position. Civilians should be ommendations should be implement- able to hold the position. The RGICT ed. He will address the public regard- recommends a civilian should be seri- ing the report in January. bat and yom tov to JLE participants, JLE Celebrates where Richard has also been extraordi- narily successful in teaching the JLE’s 28th Annual Crash Course in Reading Hebrew. Ellen and Richard have been mem- Dinner bers of Congregation Beth Aaron of Te- aneck since 1976. Richard is a former pres- CONTINUED FROM P. 16 ident of the congregation. Ellen is a past president of the sisterhood. catering with musical entertainment by James and his wife Whitney moved Jeff Wilks. Each year JLE honors volun- to Teaneck, NJ, where a chance encoun- teers and participants who exemplify ter with Sam Kaplan and Rabbi David Pi- what the organization stands for. This etruszka, led James to become involved year it is delighted to pay tribute to Dr. with JLE and regular chevrusa learning. Richard and Ellen Gertler and Mr. James To make your reservation or donation Blom. please contact Rabbi David Pietruszka at Dr. Richard and Ellen Gertler have 201-966-4498 or [email protected]. Mail a do- been active volunteers for the JLE. They nation to 270 Grayson Place, Teaneck, NJ open their home just about every Shab- 07666 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 25 LOCAL NEWS Celebrate! The Carnival is Coming! By Aliza Chasan our favorite uncle” this event is keyed to it’s a day off of school, a day off of work, Funds raised at the extravaganza will a much larger demographic in terms of so families should come together- but it’s go toward fulfi lling its mission. Never- New Year’s Day Extravaganza is com- both age and religiosity, according to Ar- also to fund Areyvut so we can continue theless, all employees of Jewish organi- Aing to town courtesy of Areyvut, a eyvut founder Daniel Rothner. serving the community all day long, eve- zations will be allowed to attend free of Bergenfi eld based non-profi t. The event, “Areyvut’s a Jewish, pluralistic organi- ry day of the year,” Rothner said. charge. Rothner explained that these in- from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. at the Garden State zation and one will see the gamut of the Areyvut serves the community in a dividuals often work very hard and are Exhibition Center in Somerset, N.J., will Jewish community at this event on the wide variety of ways on a regular basis. also often undercompensated. This ha- feature rides, games and a variety of fi rst,” Rothner said. Its mission is to infuse the lives of Jewish karat haTov is “a small gesture to make it shows. The wide range of attendees will get youth and teens with the core Jewish val- easier for them to come with their fam- This will be Areyvut’s eighth year to experience mechanical rides, carni- ues of chesed, tzedakah, and tikkun olam. ilies.” hosting an event on January fi rst, but val games, infl ateables, the Chicago Boys Toward that end, it trains people in mitz- Families and individuals who wish this is their fi rst time doing something Acrobatic Team (of America’s Got Talent vah clowning, holds two teen philan- to attend can buy tickets in advance at on such a large scale. The past seven Fame), comedy jugglers, and a BMX show. thropy programs and works to connect www.newyearsdaycarnival.com, or pur- years have featured an Uncle Moishy “A clear goal of the day is to provide a bar and bat mitzvah age kids with chesed chase their tickets at the door. Kosher concert. Though “Uncle Moishy is still fun, meaningful experience for families- opportunities. food will be available for purchase. National School Choice Week to Launch from Jersey n Wednesday, January 22nd, the 4th An- of Choice Media and producer of The and children deserve the freedom to Wednesday, January 29, 2014, 6:30-8:30 Onual National School Choice Week Cartel, will present his latest docu- choose the schools that work best for p.m., at the Frelinghuysen Arboretum, will launch its cross-country Whis- mentary, The Ticket, which takes view- them.” 353 East Hanover Ave, Morris Town- tle-Stop Tour from Newark, New Jer- ers on a historic whistle stop train Andrew Campanella, President of ship, New Jersey. Joining in sponsor- sey, bringing the message of liberty tour across the United States, showing National School Choice Week, said, ing this event are a growing number all across the country. In conjunction different forms of school choice along “The Week allows participants to ad- of public advocacy groups, including with this historic event, Choice Media the way and the children they serve. vance their own messages of educa- New Jersey Taxpayers’ Association, Al- is organizing the New Jersey School “School choice is proliferating in tional opportunity, while uniting with liance for Free Choice in Education, Choice Summit 2014, where school the United States, fostering innova- like-minded groups and individuals Veritas Conservative Alliance, Ameri- choice advocates are coming together tions in teaching and advancements across the country.” cans for Prosperity – NJ, Morris Patri- to inform and inspire public participa- in learning,” Bowden said. “ It’s based New Jersey Family Policy Council ots and 2014 Unity. tion in the critical battle for parental on a simple premise: No one educa- will be “Celebrating Our Commitment For further information and assis- choice in education. tional model can possibly serve eve- to Parental Choice in Education—the tance, contact Israel Teitelbaum, Isra- Bob Bowden, Founder and Director ry kind of student, and so parents Civil Rights Issue of Our Time,” on [email protected] or 973-820-6121. 26 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM LOCAL NEWS GOP Rivals Declare Peace By Aliza Chasan licans by 13%. “This has been something that needed to be done,” Yudin said. “The ergen County GOP Chairman Bob Yu- unity of our party in Bergen County is Bdin and County Executive Kathleen paramount above all. There is so much at Donovan put their differences aside and stake this November.” held a unity rally on December 17. De- After Yudin complimented Dono- spite their past sniping at one another, van on her forthrightness, helpfulness they each endorsed the other for new and cooperation, she took the stage and terms at their respective jobs. made sure, with some of that forthright- The two assured attendees that this ness, that the audience knew where the was not just a temporary détente, but a party stood. “I know that some of you are permanent arrangement. Their relation- here tonight with a little bit of a skeptical ship had been strained, and the Novem- eye. So the question is: Is this real? The ber elections didn’t help matters. Yudin answer: Yes, it is real,” Donovan said. blamed Donovan for the loss of a Repub- The announced unity doesn’t mean lican freeholder seat to James Tedesco, a the two will agree on everything. Dono- Democrat. van mentioned that she had read that time,” Donovan said, before turning from people of Bergen County deserve more Past diffi culties aside, the two in- when her predecessor was County Exec- the audience to face Yudin. “That’s never and Bob and I agree that we can deliver dividuals, both of whom are extreme- utive, there were 10,000 freeholder votes happened with us, huh Bob,” she asked. more,” Donovan said. ly important in the county’s GOP struc- with no argument. “That can never hap- The two have disagreements often, At the end of the rally, attendees were ture, acknowledged that they needed to pen again. That is not debate. That is not but believe that those disagreements asked to show support for the party go- be united in a county where registered good government. You cannot tell me and the debate and dialogue that follow ing forward as the anticipated race in Democrats outnumber registered Repub- that seven thinking people agree all the are critical for good government. “The 2014 will be a tough one. Project Ezrah lated services to members of the com- 7:00 AM minyan at the shul, and would I didn’t even know, but he also knew his munity. regularly give money to a man there. shoe and coat size and what to do with Community “The nursing home administrator “When I visited Ted at home when he that information,” he said. program was created under Ted’s aus- was already ill, he was no longer able Mirkhani is survived by his wife Shi- Remembers an pices, his way: With quality of care to go to that minyan,” Baum said. “He ra, sons Noam Elimelech, Dov Zev, Yo- and tutorial substance and with re- handed me a sum of money, and asked natan Lev and the Mirkhani and Sil- Ish Chesed spect for each intern,” said Stern. “Ted me to give it to this person. But, he also berstein families. Donations in Ted felt strongly that no intern be forced told me the man’s shoe size and coat Mirkhani’s memory can be sent to Pro- CONTINUED FROM P. 1 into a bind while working toward cer- size, asking me to help him replace his ject Ezrah (http://www.ezrah.org/do- tifi cation, and instituted a stipend, in- clothing if it was necessary. Ted not nate.shtml) and the Mir Yeshiva (1791 ing of Ted Mirkhani, z”l. creasing as the program progressed. Ad- only knew the name of this man, which Ocean Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11223). Mirkhani, 40, may have looked to ditionally, health insurance coverage those who didn’t know him to be mere- was arranged on an as-needed basis,” ly a successful businessman and an he said. owner of multiple nursing homes. But To date, over 100 candidates have what he truly was known for is perpet- graduated from this unique program. uating extraordinary acts of chesed in “It is in Ted Mirkhani’s zechus and is his both the public and private spheres and professional reward that these men and for also taking it upon himself to enact women have gone on to successful and the highest form of chesed, giving peo- fulfi lling careers in the industry,” said ple the means by which to earn their Stern. MOCHABLEU own parnassah. “There are so many people who ben- Working on behalf of others came efi ted from knowing him, who are bet- early in Mirkhani’s life. “As a pre-teen ter, deeper, more capable, more self-suf- t"DDPNNPEBUFTQBSUJFTGSPN student at Thomas Jefferson Middle fi cient people because he was a part School, Ted volunteered at the Teaneck of our lives,” said a close associate of t$PSQPSBUFFWFOUT$BUFSJOH Nursing Home,” said Stern. “Feeding the Mirkhani’s, Rabbi Daniel Feldman, spir- residents, reading to them, and helping itual leader of Congregation Ohr Saadya t1SJWBUF1BSUZ3PPN them pass the time with conversation of Teaneck and a Rosh Yeshiva at Yeshi- t4IFWB#SPDIPT gave his commitment a focus; he knew va University. that his future vocation and avocation “If, inspired by Ted’s example, we are t#JSUIEBZT"OOJWFSTBSJFT would be in giving chizuk and caring for more sensitive to others, we are more people,” he said. generous and compassionate, we are t4NBMM8FEEJOHT Mirkhani’s fi rst job was at that nurs- wiser in our dealings, we are deeper t#SJTQBDLBHFTTUBSUJOHBUQQ ing home, making beds, for the small and stronger in our faith, we will be re- fortune of $3.35 an hour. He contin- paying Ted in small measure for what t*OIPVTFCBLFSZ ued to work at nursing homes through- he has given to us, and we will ensure out high school, college and graduate that his soul shall be ever bound in the school and then became the youngest bind of life,” said Feldman. health care administrator in the State How does one learn how to do of New Jersey. chesed in the way that Mirkhani did? Eleven years ago, when Mirkhani By understanding how he did chesed, was just 29 and already comfortable who he did it for, and with the same with his fi nances, he joined with Pro- level of commitment multiple times ject Ezrah to develop a nine-month over. “There is no “cap” to chesed,” said training program to help people either Stern. “Therefore, our commitment to in great need of parnassah, job retrain- give continues and does not change af- ing, or a meaningful career, to do what ter one gives the fi rst, second or even he did, to become nursing home admin- third time,” he said. istrators. Rabbi Shalom Baum, spiritual lead- CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLY Project Ezrah, founded in 2001, is a er at the Mirkanis’ shul, Congregation BOOK YOUR SON'S BRIS@MOCHABLEU not-for-profi t 501(c)3 organization, offer- Keter Torah, in Teaneck, shared a story EMAIL US FOR DETAILS: [email protected] ing a variety of employment as well as at the levaya that illustrates this lesson fi nancial and non-fi nancial support-re- perfectly. Mirkhani used to attend the 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 27 EDITORIAL Can Iran take the U.S. Seriously? Seriously. e are all in agreement. The Irani- “…if the Government of Israel is the fanatics will take over, and Israel will Wans are bad players and must be compelled to take military action have to deal with that like they do with stopped. They cannot be trusted. We in legitimate self-defense against Hamas in Gaza. No one wants that, least know that, too. Since Geneva, their of- Iran’s nuclear weapon program, of all Jordan. fi cials say they can go back to nucle- the United States Government Turkey is coming apart at the seams; ar weapons development on a day’s no- should stand with Israel and pro- Lebanon is a mess. Iran is a key part in tice. That’s why Congress wants to make vide, in accordance with the law of the equation to prevent total disaster, as sure they have no wiggle room to exploit the United States and the constitu- is Saudi Arabia. So it’s a diffi cult web we whatever advantage they think they got tional responsibility of Congress weave when the U.S. Congress express- by agreeing to the deal—a deal which has to authorize the use of military es its military option in this way. And we already yielded huge multiplier benefi ts force, diplomatic, military, and fully appreciate their heart-felt and very for them. Now the Iranians are pointing economic support to the Govern- real support of Israel. their fi ngers at the U.S. and the West and ment of Israel in its defense of its BUT to be more effective and carry laughing all the way to the bank and God territory, people, and existence;” the full threat of a military option, the knows what else. fi nding might work better if it existed We also agree that there is such a It is, on its face, a commendable independently of Israel. It should be an thing as “the law of unintended conse- fi nding, clearly in support of the State option to be exercised when, and if, any quences.” of Israel, and is also what is known as U.S. ally needs military and humanitarian When you read the Menendez-Kirk bi- the military option. It is a scary option, support. Like Jordan. partisan “Sanctions Bill,” a 52-page docu- and would, if worse comes to worst, The bill will be vetoed if it hits the ment that makes a lot of sense, you will precipitate an ugly and devastating Oval Offi ce as is. Perhaps this fi nding can discover one paragraph that is perhaps, world war. be used as a bargaining chip to get those and we are guessing, the sole reason the We do not know what is going on be- other sanctions implemented. Rewrite President has said he will veto the bill. (Un- hind the scenes. This is where unintend- the military option so that the Iranians less this is all some bizarre game of Good ed consequences come in. We do know will stop laughing and know we, the citi- Cop, Bad Cop.) It’s fi nding #5 in Section 2. Iran has an impact on Syria. If Assad falls, zens of the United States, mean business. LETTER TO THE EDITOR To the Editor: mon, could not agree on a game to play child who is hosting the playdate can When I read the headline “The Bad for a short while and the other child’s learn that as a good hostess, she should Playdate,” by Sarah Abenaim, I assumed parents were late in picking her up. Abe- give in and play a game that she doesn’t the article would be about a child’s friend naim wrote, “the next time my kids ask prefer to ensure that her guest has a good who was chutzpadik, exhibited other for playdates, I will be more discerning.” time. Most importantly, a playdate is the bad middos, or was a bad infl uence in What a missed opportunity! A playdate perfect opportunity for a child to learn some way. Much to my surprise, I read is the perfect time for a mother to teach that friendship is about having a good that the reasons this was a bad playdate her child that there is give and take in a relationship with another person, even were because the writer’s child and her friendship. During a playdate, the chil- when differences exist. friend did not have very much in com- dren can take turns picking games. The Tova Domnitch D’VAR TORAH Parshat Va’eyra - The Challenge of Knowledge fused to acknowledge Joseph and his God, by Rachel Friedman Rav believed that a new king took the but about how one acts in response to that and actively oppressed the Hebrew people throne. Shmuel suggested that it was the knowledge—it is not just about intellec- (“lo yada et Yoseph,” “lo yadati et Hashem”). hen we study a same old Pharaoh—but the king instituted tual cognition but also about acknowledg- But in this very same era, the nation Wpassage in the new decrees against the Hebrews. Rav and ment. of Israel was born—a nation born of ac- Bible, it is helpful to Shemuel play out the logical conclusions Indeed, the theme of acknowledgment knowledgment, of the gratitude and ap- identify key words of each of their views for the remaining lan- is striking throughout the exodus story. preciation for our salvation and a commit- that are repeated guage of the verse—asher lo yada et Yosef— Towards the end of Parashat Shemot, in ment to live a life of sanctity and morality. throughout that pas- who did not know Joseph. If the king was 5:2, Pharaoh refuses to allow the Israelite As God declares at the opening of Parashat sage—this helps us understand the under- indeed new, then it is possible that he did slaves to worship their God in the wilder- Va’era , the result of redemption must be lying message of a Torah section. The root not know Joseph. And if it was the same old ness expressing his disapproval with the : “V’yedatem ki ani Hashem Elokeikhem “yadoa” (yod/daleth/ayin) or “to know” ap- king, then he knew Joseph but the problem use of our keyword—“lo yadati et Hashem, (And you shall acknowledge that I the Lord pears about 20 times in the story of the ex- was: he acted as if he did not know Joseph. ve-gam et Yisrael lo ashaleah.” Just as Pharo- am your God who freed you from Egyp- odus from Egypt and in each case it is a The Babylonian Amora, Rav Avin, ex- ah does not acknowledge the good that Jo- tian bondage.)” keyword at a crucial juncture in the narra- pands on this idea. R. Avin poses a rhe- seph did for Egypt, so too Pharaoh does Proudly acknowledging who we are; tive. We conventionally translate ‘‘yadoa” torical question—whether the Pharaoh not acknowledge the God of Joseph and what we have learned from our history and to mean either intellectual awareness or was new or old, is it possible that he did the needs of the nation of Israel. There- how we must shape our lives to make our experience. I’d like to explore the special not know of Joseph? Ve-khi lo haya makir fore, he refuses to accord them the right of community and the world a better place, is signifi cance of the word “yadoa” in this et Yosef? After all, Joseph was legendary in religious worship. the lesson of “yadoa” in the exodus story. week’s Torah reading, Parashat Va-era. Egypt for saving the people from starvation It is only the experience of the plagues The first place that “yadoa” appears in with his impressive economic reorganiza- and the miracles of the exodus that inspire Rachel Friedman is a not ed teacher, author the exodus story is Shemot 1:8 which reads: tion! the recognition of Pharoah and his peo- and lecturer in the ar eas of Bible and Jewish “Va-yakom melekh hadash, asher lo yada et The true message of our verse, then, is ple. As God declares to Moses in Shemot 7:5 liturgy. She is Associate Dean and Chair of Tan- Yosef (A new king arose who did not know not about whether Pharaoh actually met “Ve-yadeu mitzrayim ki ani Hashem—And akh Studies a t the D risha Institute for Jewish Joseph.)” Close readers, as they were, the sag- and shook hands with Joseph. Rather, it the Egyptians shall acknowledge that I am Education in New York City. She is also found- es of the Talmud were troubled by the lan- is an observation about Pharaoh’s charac- the Lord, when I stretch out my hand over ing director of D risha’s Yesodot Skill-Building guage of this seemingly simple verse. They ter. “Asher lo yada et Yosef” does not mean Egypt and bring out the Israelites from their Program. Ms. Friedman has ser ved as scholar- wondered why the text never told us that that Pharaoh did not know Joseph person- midst.” in-residence a t synagogues and educa tional the old king died—only that a new king ally, but rather that pharaoh refused to ac- The story of the exodus from Egypt is institutions throughout the Unit ed States and arose. knowledge the good that Joseph did for the not merely about knowledge or even faith. abroad. She has an M A in Bible fr om the B er- The fi rst generation Babylonian Amo- Egyptian nation. The root “yadoa” appears It is about the challenge of knowledge— nard Revel Graduate School at Yeshiva Univer- raim, Rav and Shemuel, did not even agree to take on a new level of meaning in the ex- how we act with regard to that which we sity and a JD fr om Columbia University School that a new Pharaoh necessarily took over. odus story—it is not just about knowledge know. The Pharaoh of the oppression re- of Law. 28 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM THE MAGGID OF BERGENFIELD all over the house in the earlier plague, Va’eyra: The Plagues: A Modern Version but the sanitation department was hav- ing trouble keeping up with the enor- By Larry Stiefel in stride. I must admit, I found it hard big screen TV. I called it the “Scratch Your mous volume of dead animals. It felt like to sleep, what with the frogs here, frogs Itch Party,” and a lot of people came, de- the garbage strike of ’29 all over again. s I was eating there, frogs jumping everywhere. And a spite how uncomfortable they all were. O.K., I’m going to be honest with you. Abreakfast in front lot of public events had to be canceled, Pharaoh wore a gold head dress—most The boils? They were the worst. I mean, I of the television— including a soccer game that I had been likely to hide his lice—and looked visi- thought the lice were bad. But boils? Just a nice piece of Leba- looking forward to for months. It was bly uncomfortable. He spoke of staying awful. The papers carried the story that nese baklava with a hard to get anything accomplished, as the course and of national pride. “No, no, even the sorcerers of Pharaoh had them. cup of Earl Grey tea— the whole countryside was covered in no, I will not let them go,” was his catch- But for me, I started to worry when I the weatherman for Good Morning Egypt amphibians. But, after a while, you kind iest sound bite that night, and it was all heard my dermatologist was stricken. was standing in front of his map of the of got used to it. The only people mak- the rage the next day at the blood-free Actually, if you don’t count the proper- country, pointing toward the Nile Delta. ing a living that week were the pest con- water coolers. ty damage and the idiots who stayed out- “Today will be partly cloudy, with a trol companies. While the Cairo Stock People were pretty demoralized when side during the storm and died, the hail 20% chance of frogs.” Exchange had plummeted, Scarab Bust- the swarm of wild beasts came. Everyone was kind of cool. I mean, hail that turns Suddenly, from the window to his ers was up fi fty-percent. just locked their doors and stayed inside. to fi re when it hits the ground? There’s side—you know, the one where all the There’s no denying that the lice was The media kept alternating between a story to tell your children someday, as- adoring fans stand outside waving signs unpleasant. The pharmacies ran out of footage of some Animal Kingdom show suming you live that long. We tried to that say things like, “We love Goshen,” or Nix, Rid, Lice-Be-Gone, and every other and Pharaoh’s speech from the week be- scoop it up with oven mitts and have fi re- “Ahmed, will you marry me?” — a small lice treatment within an hour after the fore, but no one wanted to watch. Fi- ball fi ghts, but it just wouldn’t make good green object splattered against the win- infestation started. At fi rst, all the schools nally, a story broke that Pharaoh was in hail balls. I guess you need lighter hail for dow pane. were closed, but they soon reopened af- negotiations with Moses to give the Is- that, or perhaps just not of divine origin. “Make that a 90% chance of frogs.” ter the Board of Health realized that eve- raelites limited worshipping rights, but That’s where we are now. Pharaoh has I shut off the television. Things had ryone was infested. For me this plague re- apparently the plan fell through. Moses come up with a new plan to handle the been pretty weird since the Nile turned ally hit home because even if you lived in stated it was an all or nothing deal. Still, “spate of unnatural occurrences,” as he to blood last month. Back then I was an expensive condominium, or were an every time a plague ended, the Egyptian calls them, and he still refuses to let the stuck drinking whatever was left over in important politician, you had lice. It was people had hope. Then rumors would Israelites go. Personally, I don’t get it. I’ve my fridge for seven days straight: beer, an equal opportunity plague. start of the next plague, and the next heard of stubborn, but this is ridiculous. lemonade, tomato sauce, pickle brine, it Pharaoh decided to address the na- thing you knew it was upon us. It was There are rumors of some great dark- made no difference. And none of us got tion on the second night of the lice. The then that people really started to lose it. ness coming. Sounds good; I could use to bathe for a week. It had gotten ugly. newspapers had played up the fact that They were calling the next plague Cra- the rest. And yet, after all that we’ve been And to make matters worse, all the fi sh the King’s sorcerers couldn’t duplicate zy Camel Disease, but it wasn’t just the through, and despite the threat of im- had died. People did what they could, but Moses’ trick, so clearly this was the work camels. The cows, horses and sheep died, pending blackness, I’m starting to think I after a few days of bass ice cream, pike of a powerful deity. Pharaoh’s numbers too. At this point a national malaise fell can see some light at the end of the tun- preserves, and freeze dried mackerel, we were dropping in the polls, and more over Egypt. I lost a camel and two hors- nel. I mean, how much worse could it get? started losing interest. All the fi shermen Egyptians were starting to think we es. With the help of some friends, we were out of work, and they had families should just let the Israelites go. dragged their carcasses out to the street Larry Stiefel is a pediatrician at Tenafl y Pediatrics to feed. It was a mess. I got a bunch of friends together that for the garbage men to pick up, like we and the author of the parsha st ory blog themaggi- Everyone seemed to take the frogs night to watch Pharaoh’s speech on my did with the frogs we had swept up from dofbergenfi eld.com ME’ACHOREI HAPARGOD ToHeckWith U. San Diego and a member of the Nation- tifi able pride in their ability to think upon thousands of members of the al Council of the ASA proclaiming “one clearly and not be swayed by faulty log- ASA, AAAS and the NAISA—people who By Robert Katz has to start somewhere” when asked ic.” Grossman wrongly assumes that wouldn’t know or care about the dif- by Leon Wieseltier of The New Repub- the “Mob” of 2013 has the same values ference between fact or fi ction, so long onald Goldstock, lic about the justice of singling out Isra- of the Mafi a of the old days. Not even as Israel is the oppressor and the Pales- Rformer Director of el for punishment. Marez’ mother-ship close. tinians the oppressed. There is no dia- the New York State released a formal statement on behalf Between my eight years of work- logue; there is no alternative view. How Organized Crimes of its 5,000 members that “there is no ing for Bar-Ilan University and my ironic! Isn’t the liberal supposed to be Task Force and famed effective or substantive academic free- four years of having had the privilege the one who is all-welcoming and all- author and expert on dom for Palestinian students and schol- of working for International Hillel, I inclusive of thought? organized crime, had ars under conditions of Israeli occupa- can say with absolute conviction that With all the brilliance associated this to say a few years ago about the Ma- tion.” Forgetting the fact that they are for the most part, modern academia is with the Professor Curtis Marezes of fi a: “The people who join the mob these dead wrong (I had the privilege of work- a wasteland of uneven, self-annointed the world, one has to wonder if you days…don’t have the values their prede- ing for Israel’s Bar-Ilan University for hypocrites who use their ivory tower choose to boycott Israeli universities cessors had.” eight years), Wiesletier, in his column, as a bully pulpit from which to spew then are you not boycotting the same With all due respect to the Gotti and points out an even more egregious mis- their often outrageously liberal views schools that educated those who in- Gambino families, I present to you the take on their part. He writes: “In a sup- of how the world should look. vented your iPhone, your Intel Micro- latest cadre of Israel-haters, weak leg- porting document called Answering For all our brilliance as a People, we, chip, your ability to communicate in ged and weak-minded know-it-alls who Questions about the ASA Boycott from the People of the Book, lost the battle real time with your colleagues to call should scare no one with their threats. Department Chairs, Deans and adminis- for Zionistic Jewish minds on campus the very boycott you’re supporting? They all revealed their anti-Semitism trators,” the ASA instructs its members long ago. For all the buildings our phi- Are you not looking to harm the same with one tsunami these last few weeks: that its mission is to make a positive lanthropists named, for all the recital brilliance that created your life saving The Association for Asian American contribution to human understand- halls and science labs they donated, we cancer detection systems, your cardiac Studies (AAAS), the American Studies ing, support diversity and equity, and long ago ignored a facet of academia emergencies, your fertility treatments? Association (ASA), and the notoriously contribute to solving world problems.” that the staunch liberal/left jumped on So go ahead and boycott all you threatening Native American and Indig- Adds the deliciously acid-tongued Wies- decades ago. By teaming up with their want. This is the least of all matters enous Studies Association (NAISA)—all letier, “There is no mention of scholar- Arab anti-Israel brethren and by accept- that will scare us as a people. We didn’t asking their members to boycott Israe- ship, of course: These people long ago ing huge Saudi and other wealthy Arab back down from Yasir Arafat, or Brezh- li universities. obliterated the distinction between ac- endowments, they have zip-locked the nev, or Hitler or Stalin or “Zionism is And you thought only the Jews had ademia and activism.” cause of Palestine on campus as their Racism.” We’re certainly not backing the dreaded Alphabet Soup Organiza- Bravo, Leon. own, portraying Israel as the oppres- down from vapid educators who think tional Disease (ASOD)? But I digress. Lawrence Grossman, the Director sor. We, on the other hand, despite they should be “contributing to solving In the good old days of anti-Zionis- of Publications for the American Jew- our wealth, failed to name chairs and the world’s problem” rather than simply tic bigotry, the greats of the world at the ish Committee, expresses deep disap- professorships and offer these prestig- educating our children. United Nations in 1975 proclaimed that pointment with academia in a recent ious positions to even-keeled champi- Maybe it’s a blessing that some of our “Zionism is Racism.” In 2013, we have article on this subject. “The professor- ons of moral and ethic priorities. In- enemies are so un-formidable. The pro- the vapid Curtis Marez, Associate Pro- ate is the most highly educated sector stead, countless campuses throughout fessors of ToHeckWith U. can cluck and fessor of Ethnic Studies at University of of our society, its members taking jus- America are infested with thousands chirp all they want. Am Yisrael Chai. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 29 OP ED The Prejudice-Promulgating Professors By N. Aaron Troodler, Esq. university professors, recently voted to curred in 2012. For example, basic rights markably, the professors involved in the endorse the boycott effort. of freedom of expression and association BDS movement do not seem too con- cademics tradition- The rationale among supporters of are routinely restricted by the govern- cerned, as they have not taken any steps Aally wear the mantle BDS is that this movement is a means by ment in numerous countries, including to initiate boycotts against the count- of freedom of expression which they can protest what they claim Afghanistan, Belarus, China, Egypt, Ethi- less countries that sanction these crimes with great pride. They to be Israel’s inhumane and inequitable opia, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Rwan- against humanity. embrace the open exchange of ideas and policies toward, and treatment of, the da, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Vi- As self-professed defenders of human embolden others to engage in independ- Palestinian Arabs. etnam. rights, the academics’ silence in the face ent thinking and knowledge-enhancing The audacity and hypocrisy of these In Colombia, human rights defend- of such overt human rights violations is exercises. These scholars are generally professors is incredible. They hold them- ers are under constant attack. In Cuba, deafening. In fact, it makes me wonder well-respected and their disciplined pur- selves out to be bastions of free expres- the government suppresses all political if their Israeli boycott actually has any- suit of academic excellence in their re- sion, yet they have chosen to stifl e a dissent. In the Democratic Republic of thing to do with human rights at all. spective subject areas is extremely note- country that happens to be the sole dem- Congo and Honduras, human rights ac- The BDS movement is nothing more worthy. ocratic nation in the Middle East region, tivists and journalists are threatened, than an anti-Israel and anti-Semitic exer- Like most things, however, there is and which has made tremendous in- arrested and killed. In Iran, executions cise. The professors who enthusiastical- an exception to the rule. Unfortunately, roads in the academic world and great for various offenses are prevalent. In ly support the boycott have shamelessly when it comes to professors encouraging strides in developing innovative ideas Iraq, detainees are arbitrarily tortured shed their academic integrity in favor of freedom of expression in the world of ac- and emergent technology. They have tak- and peaceful protesters face intimida- intolerance and traded in their scholarly ademia, that exception is the State of Is- en the extreme measure of condemning tion and violence. In Mali, political up- books for bigotry. This misguided group rael. the State of Israel over its handling of the heaval resulted in the displacement of of professors is unapologetically prom- In a bizarre deviation from the norm Palestinian Arabs, yet they turn a blind 400,000 residents. In Syria, tens of thou- ulgating prejudice. Instead of singling in academic circles, there are a growing eye to the countless acts of terror perpe- sands of people have been killed as an- out Israel for fallacious human rights in- number of professors who seem to be- trated against innocent Israelis by their ti-government protests morphed into fringements, the BDS group should turn lieve that a double standard is somehow Arab neighbors. an all-out armed confl ict. In Tajikistan, its attention to the myriad cases of seri- acceptable when it comes to Israel. On The backers of the BDS movement al- the government restricts religious ex- ous human rights violations that occur one hand, they promote inclusiveness lege human rights violations against Isra- pression and education, and domestic on a daily basis around the globe. and individuality. On the other hand, el and single out the Jewish State, howev- violence against women and children is Stop picking on Israel solely because they have inexplicably chosen to support er, they apparently ignore the egregious commonplace. In Uganda, the govern- it is a Jewish State and focus on places an academic boycott of Israel. and blatant human rights violations that ment’s security force routinely engages and situations that are actually worthy This movement, which is known are pervasive in other nations around the in acts of torture. In Uzbekistan, torture of protestation. My dear professors, your as Boycotts, Divestment and Sanctions world. is widely utilized in the criminal justice narrow-mindedness is unbecoming, un- (BDS), has gotten some traction over In its 2013 World Report, Human system, freedom of expression is limit- professional and unpardonable. the past several years. It gained further Rights Watch, an organization that mon- ed and the government sponsors forced momentum when the members of the itors and reviews human rights practices child labor. In Venezuela, opponents of N. Aaron Troodler is an attorney and a principal of American Studies Association, a U.S.- throughout the world, outlined a pleth- the government are intimidated and Paul Revere Public Relations, a public r elations and based organization that is comprised of ora of human rights violations that oc- prosecuted. political c onsulting fi rm. Visit him on the Web a t The twisted tales of heinous human TroodlersTake.blogspot.com, w ww.PaulReverePR. rights violations that are taking place com, or www.JewishWorldPR.com. You can also fol- NOT YOUR USUAL around the globe are sickening. Yet, re- low him on Twitter: @troodler SHAITEL SALE! Back to New Jersey by popular demand with over 350 wigs!! Sunday December 29 10-1pm sharp SUNDAY Michelle Judith Boutique( side entrance) Dec 29 1348 Taft road Teaneck, NJ 10-1PM 30 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 31 OP ED Staying Home Can Make a Huge Difference By Josh Pruzansky races that directly impact the Jewish place and third place was 57 votes. Were didate in a major race noticed the low community. you one of the 58 people who sat home voter presence, particularly since that he 2013 general elec- If you live in Bergen County (Bergen- and didn’t vote that day? It’s a shame. You community typically has a high turnout. Ttion results in New fi eld, Englewood, Fair Lawn, Fort Lee, could have made the difference in that The campaign staff began calling com- Jersey became offi cial re- Paramus, Teaneck, and Tenafl y) you had race. munity leaders to fi nd out why no one cently, revealing a num- an opportunity to vote in a County Free- If you live in Atlantic City, Margate was voting. Do you think turnout isn’t ber of interesting points holders race. There were six candidates or Ventnor, your Assembly race was the being followed on Election Day itself at about voter turnout throughout the and only three could win. Mere hand- tightest of the three. The difference be- the highest levels? state. I would like to share some of those fuls of people cast the deciding votes. tween winning and losing was 51 votes. As you can see from the information items with you. The difference between winning and los- Were you one of the 52 people who sat from just three of the state’s elections, The overall turnout was 39.6%. That is ing (third and fourth place) was 68 votes. home that day and didn’t vote? It’s a our community had a chance to make the lowest voter response ever in a guber- Were you one of the 69 people in Bergen shame. You could have made a difference a difference at the polls. And we did just natorial election in the State of New Jer- County that sat home that day and didn’t in that race too. that—by the majority of our community sey. The lowest previous turnout was four vote? It’s a shame. You could have made There is a very large community in staying home and not voting as we could years ago when only 46.9% of the elector- the difference in that race. New Jersey that has many Orthodox Jew- have. ate came out to vote. The turnout in most If you live in Bergenfi eld or Fair Lawn, ish voters. On Election Day, a member of of the Orthodox Jewish districts was a lit- the race for your Assembly seats was very that community decided to make a re- Josh Pruzansky is the New Jersey Regional D irector tle higher and varied between 40-45%. tight. The difference between fi rst place corded “robo” call to everyone instruct- of the O rthodox Union A dvocacy Center, the non- That’s the good news. and last place was just 413 votes. With ing them to stay home and not vote— partisan public policy arm of the OU . To learn more Digging deeper into the numbers re- four candidates running, only two could and many members of that community about OU A dvocacy, please go t o www.OUadvoca- veals even more interesting fi gures about win. The difference between second listened. But the campaign staff of a can- cy.org. CHINUCH book?” My father asked as I curled up were a relay race, and at the end pro- Reading Connections on the couch, holding the worn and dis- claim, “Done!” To this I say, “Okay, colored pages of the book. you’ve done the fi rst draft reading, and By Esther Kook out a doubt it was my favorite series, We both loved to read, he’d be sit- now let’s fi ll in the picture with colors. and I connected in a profound way to ting in his armchair reading newspapers, Let’s discuss the main characters, fi nd rowing up, I read the story of a Jewish family with fi ve folding and bending the pages just so. Al- the theme or main idea, compare and Gthe book, All of a daughters at the turn of the century on though it was left unsaid, I sensed that contrast characters, and by all means Kind Family, and the the Lower East Side of New York. Even he would’ve preferred for me to move reread!” following sequels by though the setting was different, I was onto other books. But I was already im- “How would you handle the situa- Sydney Taylor count- the youngest of three daughters. mersed, and I’d just shrug my shoulders tion if you were the character?” less times. With- “Why do you keep reading the same and continue reading, always fi nding an- “What do you think will happen other new piece of information or anoth- next?” er scene to imagine. “Can you visualize a scene?” All of a Kind Family transported me One of my favorite exercises is for to another world, to a simpler time and students to revisit the text and high- to another warm and loving family. Ella, light their “golden words and para- Henny, Sarah, Charlotte and Gertie got graphs,” which are elements of the sto- into all sorts of fabulous mischief, ar- ries that are most descriptive and fi lled gued and made up, celebrated the Jew- with juicy adjectives. ish holidays and had so much fun to- A few years ago, we were reading a gether. When their brother Charlie was nonfi ction book about museums. The born at the end of the book, their Papa students began talking about the muse- was overcome with emotion and in dis- ums they had visited; several had been belief after having fi ve girls—but the to local museums such as the Museum girls still ruled the day. Mama and Papa of Natural History and the Metropoli- didn’t have much money; however, there tan Museum of Art. Then as we began was an abundance of love, understand- to discuss important artists like, “Leon- ing, and caring for each of their children ardo”….. one of my students cut me off who had such different and distinct per- before I could utter the last name. sonalities. Those personalities rang true “Oh, I know all about Leonardo Di- and reminded me of my own older sis- Caprio,” he said confi dently. What ters who, at that time, were away in col- seemed like a digression from the story lege. I missed them, especially on Shab- about the artist Leonardo da Vinci was bat when it seemed just too quiet. actually a connection and that’s a good As a child, I didn’t realize that my foundation for comprehension. habit of rereading favorite books was At times, my mind wanders back to actually positive and strengthened my the times when my father and I sat to- comprehension skills. It didn’t bother gether reading and the conversation me that my friends were reading an im- that could have ensued. Although we pressive array of books, I was looking enjoyed spending time reading togeth- for the way a book made me feel and er, if he had asked me to tell him some to relate to the characters. Through re- details about the book, which charac- reading, I’d also learn new vocabulary ter appealed the most to me, or even from the context. With each sister I picked up the book to read as well, it had a different connection and won- probably could have been a memora- dered what I’d do in her shoes. Even ble discussion. though Gertie and I were both the “ba- Next time your child curls up on bies” of the family, there were situa- the couch with a book, ask those ques- tions when I empathized more with tions, have that discussion, because it’s a Ella, Henny, Sarah or Charlotte. chance to open up a door you both won’t Now, as a reading and language arts forget. teacher, one of my mantras is “good readers are re-readers.” Many students Esther Kook is a Teaneck resident. She’s a teacher and tend to rush through reading as if it a freelance writer. 32 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM CHINUCH Understanding School Hiring Season By Rabbi Maccabee Avishur offers schools white-glove placement service. The YUSP works with schools t may seem obvious, to help them strategically project place- Ibut it bears stating that ment needs and design and refi ne their the most important fac- hiring processes. The process continues tor in a school’s quality as the YUSP matches schools with poten- is its staff, especially its faculty and lead- tial candidates in both Jewish and Gener- ers. It also bears mentioning that of the al Studies from an ever-growing pipeline. approximately 900 Jewish Day Schools White-glove placement service is of- in the U.S., almost every single one hires fered to job seekers as well. Job seekers in someone new to its staff each year, rang- both Jewish and General Studies can get ing from support personnel to school help with their resumes and interview leaders. Schools hire for different rea- skills and be added to a personalized sons including student body growth, nat- pipeline from which the YUSP suggests ural attrition of staff (e.g., retirement, candidates to schools looking for new relocation, new job), and quality im- faculty. If you or someone you know is provements (e.g., replacing underper- looking for a job in a Jewish school, or forming staff or adding programs). you just want to know what’s out there, Despite the large number of jobs you should create a free profi le on JED- available each year, it is more diffi cult stand the language of education in are- identifi cation and hiring process is vital Jobs.com and reach out to the YUSP. now than it has been in recent memory as such as curriculum design, differenti- for schools that want to attract and hire Hiring season is when our schools to get a job in a Jewish Day School, es- ation and technology integration. They educators who are the best fi t. identify the staff members who will be pecially for teachers. More young people expect that their new hires have been in The good news is that there are ser- interacting with our children. The efforts are seeking jobs in the fi eld, and schools the classroom before and have the tools vices in place to help both job seekers described above aimed at advancing tal- are able to be more selective with their to refl ect on their practice so they can and schools in meaningful ways. The ent identifi cation and recruitment pro- candidates. grow. Being a job seeker in that climate YU School Partnership offers a wide and cesses and the offering of resources and It may have been true as recently as can be overwhelming. deep array of placement services to sup- support to job seekers and schools are 10 years ago that a great personality and The climate is also daunting for port Jewish schools and job seekers. The part of the larger labor of providing our some experience working with children schools. With so many qualifi ed candi- use of online job boards is now de ri- children the best Jewish education pos- in a youth group were enough to secure dates banging down their doors, schools gueur for both schools and job seekers. sible. a position. That is no longer the case. must “up their game.” In the past, know- The YUSP is proud to run the country’s Schools should, and do, demand that ing the right people and word of mouth largest job board exclusively for careers Rabbi Maccabee Avishur is the Associate Director for their new hires have credentials and ex- might have been enough to fi nd a great in the fi eld of Jewish Education (JEDJobs. Teaching and Learning at Yeshiva University’s Insti- perience in a classroom setting. They teacher. Although both still play a role com). tute for Univ ersity-School P artnership. He can be want to know that their teachers under- in hiring, utilizing a sophisticated talent- In addition to JEDJobs.com, the YUSP reached at [email protected]. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 33 INTRODUCING THE GILBOA HOMES AT GANEI HA’ELA 2,942 SQ. FEET PLUS A 278 SQ. FT. GARDEN $499,000!* INCLUDED PREMIUM SPECIFICATIONS 4 finished levels High ceilings 2.5 bathrooms 24”x24” granite porcelain tiles 246 sq. ft. eat-in kitchen Integrated toilets Master suite with bathtub Vanities in bathrooms Separate laundry room Upgraded doors and hardware 387 sq. ft. finished basement Double-glazed windows 450 sq. ft. finished attic** Three-phase electric 396 sq. ft. two-car garage Gewiss Italian power outlets 235 sq. ft. balcony & terraces and light switches RAMAT BEIT SHEMESH Sales exclusively by Tivuch Shelly - USA (646) 783-8408 * Based on exchange rate of 3.51 **71% of attic is below 6’ high. All images are for illustration purposes only. The sale agreement and its appendices, signed by the company and the purchasers, shall be the only binding document among the company and the purchaser. 34 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM IN GOOD TASTE Chili and Cilantro Crusted Tilapia with Guacamole and Pico de Gallo By Lisa Rietman Dobi • A fi sh spatula and a regular one for • Your favorite, fresh (refrigerated) pico turning the tilapia do gallo or fresh salsa fter a month of enjoying winter stews • Plate for setting aside the coated tila- Aand hearty dishes, the endless stream pia What to do: of cold, short days make me long for the • Foil covered baking sheet sprayed In the Pyrex casserole, blend the chi- perky fl avors of warmer climates. Out with non-stick spray li powder, salt, cilantro, pepper, garlic of all the herbs available at the market, • Small, heavy pot with fi tted lid for the and cayenne with the milk. Submerge cilantro is at the top of my list for a fresh, rice the fi sh fi llets in the marinade and cov- sprightly boost that helps me forget the • Medium, non-reactive bowl for pre- er with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2-4 18 inches of snow outside my window. paring the guacamole hours. This week’s recipe features tilapia The Marinated Fish: Before cooking the fi sh, prepare the coated pieces aside on the plate. When marinated with chili, cilantro and garlic, • 2 large whole tilapia fi llets, cut in half rice. In a small, heavy pot with a fi tted all the fi sh is coated, heat the sauté with a crispy coating of chili and oregano • 1½ tsp. chili powder lip, sauté the shallots in olive oil un- pan and add olive oil to coat the bot- seasoned panko. Served with rice, fresh • ¾ tsp. salt til soft. Add the butter and, as it melts, tom in a 1/8 – ¼ inch layer. When the pico de gallo and guacamole, this dish • ¼ C chopped fresh cilantro plus 2 T add the salt and pepper, then the rice, oil is hot, place the fi llets in the pan will take you on a little South of the Bor- for garnish stirring to coat it. Add the water, bring and cook until crispy and deep golden- der foray and chase away some of those • 1 C milk to slight boil and then immediately re- brown. Turn the fi llets to cook on the winter doldrums. • ½ tsp. fresh ground pepper duce the heat to low, cover and cook for other side, carefully using the fi sh spat- I recommend exploring different • Dash of cayenne if desired about 20 minutes. Check after 15 min- ula on the bottom and the regular spat- kinds of chili powder. The one I used • 1 T chopped garlic utes. Set aside, covered. ula to help gently fl ip over each piece. came from Santa Fe, courtesy of my The Coating: While the rice is cooking, prepare If the pan seems to need more olive oil, friend Tom who brings me ingredients • ¾ C unseasoned panko the guacamole. In a deep, non-reactive add some to the side of the pan so it from his travels, and we dine on the re- • ½ tsp. chili powder bowl, use a fork to mash the avocado heats before touching the fi sh. Tilt the sults. Santa Fe chili powder serves up a • ¾ tsp. salt with the lemon juice, olive oil and salt. pan to evenly distribute the addition- deep, complex fl avor followed by a grad- • ¼ tsp. garlic powder Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt and al oil. When the fi sh is almost done ual hot kick. If you decide to use stand- • ¼ teaspoon oregano cayenne. Tear off a piece of plastic wrap browning, add the butter. It will melt ard chili powder, you might want to add • Dash cayenne if desired to cover the bowl. Rub one side of the and sizzle immediately. Tilt the pan a dash of cayenne to boost the taste and The Guacamole: wrap with a piece of lemon. Cover the quickly to make sure the melted but- add a touch of heat. • 2 ripe avocados guacamole, fl attening the lemon juice ter reaches the bottom of every piece The tilapia fi llets I used were rather • ½ tsp. or more salt treated side of the wrap directly onto of fi sh. When the fi sh is a deep golden thick and large. I cut two whole fi llets in • 1 tsp. olive oil the entire surface of the guacamole to brown on each side, place the fi llets on half to yield four smaller servings. • 1 T fresh lemon juice prevent discoloration. the foil-covered baking sheet and put • Dash cayenne When you are ready to cook the into the oven. Bake for approximate- What You Need: The Rice: fi sh, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. ly 10 minutes, longer if the fi llets are • Large, non-stick sauté pan • 1 C uncooked white rice In the pie plate, blend the panko, chi- particularly thick. The fi llets should be • Olive oil for the pan • 2 T (or one small) shallot, chopped li powder, salt, oregano, garlic powder served with a deep-hued crispy coating. • Butter for the pan (about 1 T) • Olive oil to sauté the shallots and cayenne. Remove the fi sh from Do not undercook. • Deep Pyrex or other glass/non-reactive • ½ tsp. salt, adding more to taste the marinade one piece at a time and Plate with the rice, guacamole and casserole, preferably in a loaf shape, • 2 C water thoroughly coat each side with the fresh pico de gallo, garnished with some for marinating the fi sh • 1 tsp. butter panko mixture, pressing the fi sh down chopped cilantro and lemon wedges. • Pie plate for the seasoned panko • Lemon wedges for serving onto the seasoned crumbs. Set the Enjoy! FRUIT OF THE VINE The Great Bruts: Five Kosher Sparklers for Any Occasion By Gamliel Kronemer putably produces the world’s best spar- ed cuvée which has an abundance of kling wines, the champagne wine-making large, nose-tickling bubbles and that clas- n the early days of 1904, British and formula has been copied frequently, and sic champagne profi le: Endowed with IFrench diplomats signed a series of trea- good or even great champagne-like wines a crisp—almost bracing—acidity, this ties known as the Entente Cordiale. The are now available from all over the world. champagne has a fruity bouquet of ap- treaties, the result of years of negations, Some of them are even kosher. ples and quince. Look for fl avors of ap- were meant to bring those two coun- Since the end of December is the most ples and quince on the front of the pal- tries—with a centuries-long history of en- popular time for drinking sparkling wine, ate, moving toward notes of grapefruit, mity—together into a lasting friendship. I decided it would be a good time to re- gooseberries and toast on the fi nish. It worked. Britain and France became, view the current crop of kosher bubblies. Score A/A ($60.00.—available at FillerUp and have remained, the closest of allies. I was pleasantly surprised to fi nd that all Kosher Wines, 174 West Englewood Ave, Yet, today, nearly 11 decades later, and de- of the wines I tasted were good, and a few Teaneck, [201] 862-1700). spite the best efforts of diplomats, a few were even excellent. Those seeking bubbly on a budget old disputes seem linger. One of the old- Not surprisingly, the best wines in the should try the Bartenura Prosecco. Dry est and bitterest of these disputes always tasting were from the Champagne region. and refreshing, with a vigorous mousse, seems to rear its head this time of year: My favorite (and, alas, the most expensive this straw-colored Italian sparkler has fl a- that age-old disagreement as to how best wine in the tasting) was Laurent Perri- vors and aromas of apples and peaches, to enjoy champagne. er’s Brut L-P Champagne. This dark-straw hints of kiwifruit and spice, and a nice The French like their champagne colored sparkler, with its rich mousse of creamy yeastiness. Score B+ ($14.99— young and fresh, whereas the British pre- tiny bubbles, has a rich mineral content available at Queen Anne Wine & Spirit fer to drink it old. The French believe pagne for special occasions, or as English and a luxurious mouth feel. Look for Emporium, 247 DeGraw Avenue, Teaneck, that champagne is a truly versatile wine novelist Evelyn Waugh once put it, cham- fl avors and aromas of apples, apricots, [201] 692-1555). which can be a great accompaniment to pagne “is a wine for (frequent) occasion- heather, and toasted challah, with a de- Another good budget choice is Elvi’s virtually any dish, whereas the Brits gen- al use.” lightful hint of crème brûlée on the fi n- Cava Brut, a light, elegant Spanish spar- erally think that champagne is best when The one point both the British and ish. Score A/A ($79.99—available at Queen kling wine, which has fl avors and aromas served without any food. The French French do agree on is that champagne is Anne Wine & Spirit Emporium, 247 De- of peaches and pears. Look for a hint of like to drink champagne morning, noon a truly splendid wine. And they are right. Graw Avenue, Teaneck, [201] 692-1555). spice on the fi nish, and a light-but-still- and night, as often as they can afford it, While the chalky soil of the Cham- Also excellent is Drappier’s Brut Carte whereas the British prefer to save cham- pagne region in northern France indis- d’Or Champagne. It is a dry, straw-color- CONTINUED ON P. 36 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 35 THE HEIMISHE HOMEMAKER Jazz Up the Morning Joe By Gail Hochman syrup and cinnamon in a medium sauce- • 1 tsp vanilla extract pan over medium heat. When the mix- Instructions: I am a lover of coffee. ture begins to steam, remove from the Whisk together milk, cream, pump- But it’s not just the coffee heat. Stir in extracts. Strain through a kin, pumpkin spice, and maple syrup in that I drink every morn- fi ne mesh sieve, pour into a glass bottle a medium saucepan over medium heat. ing—it’s what I put in it. I and store in the refrigerator. When mixture begins to steam, remove am also a lover of fl avored creamers. But from the heat and stir in the vanilla ex- place it with 1 tablespoon of vanilla ex- they can get costly, so I started to make Chocolate Almond Coffee Creamer tract. Strain through a fi ne mesh sieve, tract) my own. Here are some tips on how you • Ingredients: pour into a glass bottle and store in the too, can make your own. Make sure you • 1 cup heavy cream refrigerator. Peppermint Mocha Coffee Creamer store them in glass containers to ensure • 2 Tbs cocoa Ingredients: freshness. They make great gifts as well. • 4 Tbs maple syrup French Vanilla Coffee Creamer • 1 cup whole milk If you have family members that are • 1 tsp almond extract Ingredients: • 1 cup heavy cream Cholov Yisroel, this is an especially nice Instructions: • 1 cup whole milk • 4 Tbs maple syrup thing to do for them as I don’t think you Whisk together milk, cream, cocoa • 1 cup heavy cream • 3 Tbs cocoa powder can purchase fl avored coffee creamers powder, and maple syrup in a medium • 4 Tbs maple syrup • 1 tsp peppermint extract that conform to that standard. saucepan over medium heat. When mix- • 1 tsp vanilla Instructions: ture begins to steam, remove from the heat Instructions: Whisk together milk, cream, maple Cinnamon Strudel Coffee Creamer and stir in almond extract. Pour in a glass Whisk together milk, cream and ma- syrup, and cocoa in a medium saucepan Ingredients: container and store in the refrigerator. ple syrup in a medium saucepan over over medium heat. When mixture begins • 1 cup whole milk medium heat. Cut vanilla bean in half to steam, remove from the heat and stir • 1 cup heavy cream Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer and scrape out seeds. Add seeds and va- in the peppermint extract. Strain through • 4 Tbs maple syrup Ingredients: nilla bean to milk mixture. Turn off heat, a fi ne mesh sieve, pour into a glass bottle • 1½ tsp ground cinnamon • 1 cup whole milk cover the pot and steep for 30 minutes. and store in the refrigerator. • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1 cup heavy cream After mixture has steeped, strain through • 1 tsp almond extract • 3 Tbs pureed pumkin a fi ne mesh sieve, pour into a glass bottle Gail Hochman is a longtime r esident of B ergen Instructions: • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice and store in the refrigerator. (If you don’t County and has been blessed with man y grandchil- Whisk together milk, cream, maple • 4 Tbs maple syrup have a vanilla bean on hand, simply re- dren. Score A-/B+ ($47.00—available at FillerUp The Great Bruts: Kosher Wines, 174 West Englewood Ave, Five Kosher Teaneck, [201] 862-1700). Whether planning to spend $15 or Sparklers for $150 on a bottle of bubbly, there are a few points that one should keep in mind. Any Occasion First, most non-vintage sparkling wines CONTINUED FROM P. 35 have a shelf life of about three to fi ve years (unless of course you are very Brit- pleasant mousse of tiny bubbles. Score ish). So when buying a non-vintage wine, B+ ($21.99—available at Wine Country, avoid selecting bottles that look like they 89 New Bridge Rd, Bergenfi eld, [201] 385- have been sitting on the shelf of the wine 0106). shop for years. Also, if you ever open a Finally, those who have a very Brit- bottle of bubbly that is not quite to your ish approach to drinking sparkling wines liking, consider using that bottle to make should consider Hagafen’s 2007 Napa Champagne Cocktails. Put a sugar cube Valley Late Disgorge Brut Cuvée. Ernie and a few dashes of Angostura Aromatic Weir, the winemaker behind Hagafen Bitters (available at almost any supermar- Cellars, got his winemaking start at Do- ket) in the bottom of a Champagne fl ute, maine Chandon, the California branch let the glass sit for a few minutes, and of the noted Champagne house of Moet then fi ll with sparkling wine. The sug- et Chandon, where he clearly learned ar and bitters add delightful fl avors and how to make a good Champagne-style of tiny bubbles, this six year old bubbly can mask many of the fl aws that may be Wines are scored on an ‘A’-‘F’ scale sparkler. Nearing the end of its life, the has fl avors and aromas of apples, apri- found in sparkling wines. where ‘A’ is excellent, ‘B’ is good, ‘C’ is 2007 Late Disgorge Brut Cuvée remains cots, cream, chalk and hay, with a note of And as for that age-old disagreement fl awed, ‘D’ is very fl awed, and ‘F’ is un- a charming wine: With a peach color, a spice. Look for a hint of fresh fi gs on the between the French and the British, well, drinkable. Prices listed refl ect the price at satiny mouth feel and a light mousse fi nish. Drink within the next six months. as the French would say, vive la différence! the retailer mentioned. 36 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM Join us at the incomparable Waldorf Astoria Hotel Passover 2014 in Orlando, FL Featured Scholars-in-Residence Rabbi Kenneth N. Hain Rabbi Shmuel Hain Rabbi Benjamin Blech SPECIAL GUEST President Richard M. Joel Under the strict glatt kosher supervision of Rabbi Rafael Berdugo, Rav Hamachshir Alan Berger Director and Host Catering by Robyn Hartman Program Manager Joey Bodner, Marty Bodner Doug Soclof Dining Room Host and Maitre D’ and Eddie Izso of For reservations or more information, please contact our team at: 1-877-PESACH4 (1-877-737-2244) or 516-734-0840 [email protected] www.passovergrandgetaways.com 201-371-3212GG WAO 10Wx14H •Ad WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 5774 #5.indd 1 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet12/24/13 5774 10:37 37 AM PARENTING is washed, folded/ironed and why they don’t listen to you is Fairies magically reappears in drawers because you spoil them. Yes, you and closets. There is the Lost are correct. I am in big trouble. By Banji Latkin to the bank, the poor unsuspect- and Found Fairy, which is pret- But, in my defense, when the Ganchrow ing child gets a Ziploc bag fi lled ty much self-explanatory. And fairy isn’t around and her angels with pennies. so on and so on. need water or clean laundry or hen our What are we teaching our This fairy, who I speak of, to eat something, they do it on Wchildren children? Not to take insur- does not have wings (except their own. I have been witness are little and ance and that there is magic in when she got a really bad hair- to this (because as you know, their teeth begin to fall out, they the world (but not necessarily cut in the ’80s) and does not fairies are magical and are ever learn about the Tooth Fairy. The in that order.) Of course there is fi t into a Tinkerbell costume. present). Tooth Fairy is a magical creature the time when the Tooth Fairy’s She wears Target pajama pants There is a method to this that gently fl utters into their middle child lost his fi rst tooth and a Biggest Loser sweatshirt. fairy’s madness. Boys are differ- rooms when they are sleeping; in Disney World. No one knew She does not fl utter around the ent than girls. They rarely want retrieves the tiny tooth and re- he even had a loose tooth, being house; it’s more of a stomping to go shopping or hang out at places it with some sort of mon- the middle child and all, so the sound, coupled with frustrated the mall. They are very black etary compensation. What the Tooth Fairy had to buy an over- tor when her precious children sighs and mutters of “why am and white. They do not always Tooth Fairy leaves under the priced toy from one of the gift drink all of the water and do I the only fairy doing anything like to be hugged or shmushed pillow usually depends upon shops. Enough said. not have the energy to get more around here???” (not a word, but you know what the Tooth Fairy fi nds lying When I think of magical fair- from the garage because they I know what some of you what I mean), but they do like around the house. Sometimes, ies, they usually have beauti- are so tired from fi ghting with are thinking. This fairy is a very their water cold and their laun- the precious child receives four ful wings and they look good each other or watching foot- bad mom. She is not teaching dry clean, so for the short time quarters, sometimes $5 and in a Tinkerbell costume. Not ball. Then there is the Laundry her children any responsibility. I have them all home—and sometimes, if times are really the case in this house. In this Fairy, who magically makes all They are going to grow up think- man is that going quickly—I stressful and the Tooth Fairy has house, we have the Water Fairy. of the clothing disappear from ing that everything should be want to do all I can for them. gotten into a quarrel with its The Water Fairy replaces the the various hampers around the done for them. Their wives are Bad mom or not, they are my spouse because he forgot to go water bottles in the refrigera- house. Abracadabra, the laundry going to hate you. The reason everything. Negotiating the Impossible Turns in Life By Rabbi Dr. with impossible solutions that work, may retrain or fi nd other options. Those times unspeakably cruel. But this is the Mordechai Glick even counter-intuitively! Or, perhaps, who can, may eventually somehow ac- only life that we have. And when we deal we would continue to try and seeming- cept the change in their status, and af- with the impossible in a way that in- ometimes life ly never give up until we have, against all ter much terrible frustration and appeals creases our suffering (as virtually all of us Sdeals us great dif- odds, come up with a solution! for help, fi nd some pleasure in things do, at least initially), we are joining the fi culty. For people But there are times that no matter that most of us would fi nd terrible. And forces of evil in the world that seem in- who are very sensitive what we do, we can’t change the situa- of course, a ruined marriage ceremony, tent on destroying us. However, some of about certain things, tion. Every one of us has probably had, or though very diffi cult, can be rearranged us, somehow, fi nd ways of going on, in they would probably have a great deal at least know of such challenges—wheth- or rescheduled, or even redone in a sim- spite of the impossible. As did, Elie Wei- of trouble handling even things that are er it be dealing with a special needs child pler way. But these are, in fact, the “easy” sel, as did Esther Wachsman, as did the not so challenging. Most of us, however, or somehow adjusting to a dramatic drop roadblocks. parents of Koby Mandell, as did count- would handle it the way we handle most in income, or having a hurricane occur What about the truly impossible sit- less people, who in response to the im- things. For people who are functioning just before a wedding or bar mitzvah. But uations that allow no solutions? What possible have dedicated themselves in well, that means looking at the situation, as diffi cult as those situations are, at least about being confronted with the reali- some way to improving the world. That trying to fi gure out what caused it, ana- it is conceivable to deal with them in a ty that your spouse is a serial rapist? Or always seems easier in someone else’s lyzing what consequence would occur if way that would make it more palatable. having your spouse of three years killed circumstances. But though it is never we chose one of the various options and Most people today deal with a spe- in front of you when picking up your easy, it is possible in some fashion for then deciding, as best as we can, which cial needs child in a very different way car in a shopping mall? Or the trauma of everyone. one would bring the best outcome. With than people in the past generally did. having your child dying slowly and pain- Please feel free to contact me regard- situations that are much more compli- They fi nd organizations that help, they fully. Or the even more horrendous pos- ing this (or any) topic. You can do so anon- cated, we might consult experts, agonize look for ways of assisting the child to bet- sibilities, such as occurred to millions ymously by writing to mordechaiglick@ over the options—some of which might ter deal with some of his challenges and of people just 73 years ago in the Holo- gmail.com. Dr. Glick was a clinical psy- be disastrous—and do everything we can they may fi nd some glimmer of hope or, caust. As much as we go on through life chologist in private practice for 35 years as to make it more likely that the outcome in fact, great satisfaction in the midst of a as if nothing terrible will happen (and well as a rabbi of Congregation Ahavat Yis- will be at least somewhat positive. That very complicated situation. frequently, that is the case), not one of roel. If you would like to submit a ques- is pretty much all we can do. Losing a job, or facing a radical us is guaranteed protection against the tion, or contact him for an appointment, Some of us are better at fi guring out change in ones fi nancial circumstanc- impossible. Indeed, life is sometimes he can be reached at mordechaiglick@ possible reactions, coming up at times es, is very challenging, but some people beautiful and precious, but it is some- gmail.com Referrals By: We Refer LLC 201-791-1230 Gail Hochman [email protected] • Nannies • Housekeepers • Babysitters • House Cleaners • Baby Nurses • Elder Care No fee to you 38 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM Complimentary Event Planner Available for Your Party 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 39 PARENTING ligent, but the fact is that he needs to learn bel like “dyslexia,” or …. Should We Test Our Child? differently than his peers. Yet, I can already My child is a gifted musician. How can imagine some of the parental response to he have a learning disability? By Estelle Glass dents by the end of kindergarten and now this proposal. In my many years of teach- There must be something wrong with proponents have moved back the dead- ing and in conversations with other teach- the class if my child won’t listen or learn. recent bill spear- line for screening to the middle of second ers and administrators, the sad fact of pa- He’s such a good kid at home. Aheaded by a Dyslex- grade. This testing would be suggested rental denial of learning disabilities and And of course, in our Yeshiva environ- ia Advocacy group to only for children who already show signs aversion to testing is a common issue. ment, it’s never too early to worry about test elementary school of reading diffi culties. How many times have I personally heard the most important of issue of all, obvious- children for dyslexia As an educator, I was pleased to read of parents’ comments similar to these: ly more prevalent in high school. How will and other learning dis- this development and I hope by the time He just has to try harder. my child fi nd a good shidduch if he is la- abilities has been making signifi cant head- this article has been published, the bill will He’s lazy just like I was when I was lit- beled learning disabled? way toward passage by the New Jersey leg- have gained passage. Learning problems tle. This Dyslexia Screening Bill, if passed, islature. The bill has changed signifi cantly can be detected even at a young age and, I don’t agree with the teacher’s evalua- will no doubt come with signifi cant costs over the past months in order to reduce when evaluated, the youngster can receive tion of my child. I am his mother/father . to the schools, but its importance can- costs and gain votes by the Assembly. Orig- the help necessary. A child with learning Who knows my child better? not be underestimated. So many children inally it had proposed testing for all stu- disabilities can be and often is quite intel- How can I allow my child to have a la- with learning disabilities have been helped and have grown to become successful and productive contributors to society (think -Steve Jobs or Albert Einstein). Others, un ב“ד fortunately, have languished in the system and been punished both in school and at home for behavioral issues stemming from their frustration in the classroom. Even if Israel’s Premier the bill fails to pass, parents should take the iniative and support administrators and teachers who suggest early testing as Pesach Programs a way to help their children. There is no need to fear any stigma that might be as- 27 Successful Years! sociated with testing and early interven- tion. It would be shameful, however, if we allowed the needs of our children to be ig- nored because of our own prejudices. @ Shlock Rock בהשגחת הרבנות לישראל Temple Emeth גלאט מהדרינ ללא קטניות on New Years All our 5 Star Pesach programs include: he popular band Shlock Rock will Tbe appearing at Temple Emeth on Affordable prices Entertainment programs for all ages New Year’s Day from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. The concert, which is a fundraiser for -the Early Childhood Center, is appro חג on a first come basis!!! Wonderful Yom Tov atmosphere & second day priate for all ages and features their * Gourmet cuisine, Kitniyot Free & Non Gebrochts available best known hits. Tickets are $15 in ad- Discounted Flight vance and $20 at the door. Sponsor- Personally hosted by industry leading staff ships, which include four preferred packages available Scholars in Residence and guest speakers seating tickets, a program listing, free CD and special Shlock Rock surprise, Special rates for large families are also available for $100. Own a busi- * ness? Ask about our full, half or quar- ter page ads which will appear in the חול המועד Family value guaranteed Tours & attractions on program. Refreshments will be availa- Concerts, shows & performers ble for purchase. For tickets and more 14 -21st April, 2014 information contact Lee Stein at 201- Communal & Private Seder options 833-1322 or [email protected]. Bomb Hoax at Local Shul TIBERIAS GALIL JERUSALEM NETANYA DEAD SEA According to police, a suspicious box LEONARDO PLAZA HACIENDA RESORT DAVID CITADEL RAMADA SUITES CROWN PLAZA HOTEL was left in front of Congregation ON THE KINERET LAKE IN THE FOREST IN THE HOLY CITY ON THE MEDITERRANEAN BY THE DEAD SEA Beth Sholom in Teaneck on December Scholars: Scholars: Scholar: Scholar: Scholars: 23 to create a scare. A bomb squad was Rabbi David Gottlieb Rabbi Reuven Ziegler Rabbi James Kennard Rabbi Jeremy Gimpel – Phil Chernovsky called in, but neither they nor the ex- Rabbi Aharon Ziegler Dr Yael Ziegler World Mizrachi Education Director OU Israel plosives detection dog found any bomb *Kids for FREE Tehilla Gimpel Singer: Udi Ullmann components in the box or in the sur- 20% saving on rounding area. other Dead Sea Programs Israel: 02 992 9801 | USA: +646 240 4118, +310 601 8910 Send us your news, Europe: +44 208 819 2620 | Australia: +612 801 44676 events and photos! Experience the Difference WWW.KOSHERTRAVELERS.COM | [email protected] WWW.KOSHERTRAVELERS.COM Send to Luxury Cruises | Exotic Tours | Sukkot Hotels | Ski Vacations | Simcha Planning [email protected] 40 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM HEALTH AND FITNESS What a Pain in the Back!! By Renee Fishweicher ice, heat and electrical stimulation. jury, studies have shown the opposite. Manual therapy, including spinal ma- Bed rest for more than a day can actual- ave you ever experi- nipulation and soft tissue mobilization. ly slow your recovery. It is better to stay Henced pain in your Body mechanics training for proper active, but not to overdo it. When lifting back? Maybe a sharp techniques for sleeping, lifting, bending, a heavy object, position yourself right twinge after bending sitting and performing activities of daily in front of it and bring the object close down to lift a pen off living. There are specially trained thera- to your body. Bend your knees so your the fl oor? Or perhaps pists who will come to the workplace legs, and not your back, bear the weight. a coughing spell that left you with a back to evaluate and educate the workers on Avoid twisting movements. Instead turn ache? Unfortunately, back injuries are proper body mechanics and ergonomics your feet and not your waist. very common. Nearly 80% of Americans to minimize work related injuries. Now that we are heading into the will experience back pain at some time Postural training to improve sitting winter with snowstorms forecasted, it in their lives and 25% just within the past and standing posture. is important to be careful when shove- three months. Because it affects so many, Exercises to increase muscle strength, ling snow. Make sure to keep your back exorbitant costs are incurred, such as high fl exibility, as well as core strengthening straight while lifting the snow, and medical expenses, decreased work pro- for trunk stability to support the spine. avoid twisting while shoveling. Use a ductivity and lost income. Designing a home exercise program shovel that isn’t too short to minimize Renee Fishweicher DPT PT MS, is the o wner of In most cases, back pain is mild and for the patient to be continued once the the amount of bending while lifting Elite Care Physical therapy Rehab. P.C. an outpatient disappears on its own. For some it may patient is discharged from therapy. the snow. Take frequent breaks, stand physical ther apy offi ce. Email addr ess: elit ecare@ return and become chronic, affecting While you might think that bed rest straight and walk. Remember, use good optonline.net. For more information, go t o w ww. one’s quality of life. would alleviate the pain from a back in- body mechanics, stay warm and enjoy. elitecarerehab.com. Back pain can be classifi ed into three types. Acute pain lasts less than three months, recurrent pain disappears and then returns and chronic pain lasts long- er than three months. What causes back pain? There are several conditions that may contribute to back pain. • Degenerative disc disease, a type of ԷʃȱɏɄȭɰɖ osteoarthritis of the spine (neck and back) that comes with aging. • Spinal stenosis, a narrowing within the vertebrae of the spinal column (in the neck or back) that results in pres- sure on the spinal cord or nerves. • Fractures. • Herniated disk, a portion of the disk protrudes, or pushes out and presses spinal nerves. • Osteoarthritis of the spine (neck and back), deterioration of the bone caused by aging. • Osteoporosis, low bone density, which increases one’s risk for a fracture. • Tumors of the spine. 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The treatments may include the use of: Modalities for pain reduction such as 1440 QUEEN ANNE ROAD TEANECK NJ 201.862.1034 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 41 42 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM HEALTH AND FITNESS did not do so because she did not like and are afraid of living a life alone. Emo- The Power of Speech who she was as a person and thought tional and physical harm may be brought weight loss would help, nor was it to be- to their bodies as a result of comments By Temimah Zucker then said ‘Your friends must tell you...’ come “more appealing,” rather, it was made about their weight or fear sur- ‘Tell me what?’ I asked. to be healthy and fi t. Leah did not take rounding not being desired. These wom- hen we meet She then explained that she had down the photos, as she felt that they en, and men, should be supported for Wup with some- mentioned me to a boy in regard to set- were nothing of which to be embar- who they are rather than their weight. one whom we haven’t ting us up and that it was pretty clear he rassed about and that they represented a This is a message that should be con- seen in a while, one said no because of my older pictures, pri- part of her. veyed to children from an early age. of the fi rst things we or to my weight loss. As if this was not Though the matchmaking world is The next time you meet up with generally say is “You enough, she explained that I should con- riddled with judgment and resumes, someone whom you haven’t seen in a look great!” or maybe, “Have you lost sider deleting my ‘fat pictures’ and put- comments like these are not excusable. while, think about not commenting on weight?” We are culturally accustomed to ting more limiting settings on my pro- The shadchanit hurt Leah and made as- appearance. I generally say “I’m so hap- commenting on appearance and weight, fi le so people don’t see them and judge sumptions about who she was based on py to see you.” Sometimes our friend has thinking that this is what we should do. me from them.” her looks. Additionally, boys are encour- lost weight, or we want to tell him/her Sometimes, though, this sends out a neg- Leah told me that she was upset for aged to judge based on looks rather than how great s/he looks. I’d challenge you ative message that we may be unaware several reasons: She had been judged character. This is a controversial subject to not let that be your fi rst comment. of. When someone says “you look great!,” based on her weight, and been given that I know will bring up strong opin- Whether you interact with adolescents what s/he is generally trying to do is ex- the message that the way she used to ions. At the same time, it is one that con- or adults, it is important to keep in mind press that s/he is happy to see this oth- look was something to be ashamed of. tinues to haunt people and I have even both the subliminal meanings behind er person and, in trying to fi nd a way to When Leah had lost some weight it was see it be a continuous factor in recov- weight/appearance references, as well as express this, turning to a superfi cial com- a personal decision and not one that she ery from an eating disorder; those suffer- the harm that might come from talking pliment. thought should have been judged. She ing feel pressured to look a certain way about the subject outright. This situation exemplifi es the fact that we may not realize the power of our words and the subliminal meanings of what we say. When I was in junior high school, the thinnest girl in our class used to complain that she was “so fat.” She didn’t do this because she believed it, but rather because we were at an age when appearance and diet were on our minds. What she did not realize, though, was the effect this may have had on girls in the class who weighed more than she did. If she thought she was fat, did this mean she thought other people were fat? Comments like this are made not only by adolescents who may not ful- ly understand the value of what they are saying, but also by adults. This can be particularly harmful for adolescents who overhear adults making comments about their own weight. When a mother talks about her diet or her body dissatis- faction in front of her child, she is show- ing her child negative body conscious- ness. We must be cautious when talking about weight and appearance in all con- texts. This can be exacerbated in the con- text of dating and marriage. Oftentimes, when an individual wants to set some- one up, the fi rst question that comes up is “Is the girl pretty? Thin?” “Is the boy cute?” While physical attraction is a fac- tor in relationships, this should not be the fi rst thing that comes to mind. These reactions seem almost innate, but we are unaware of the potential harm they can cause. A friend of mine told me about a re- cent interaction with a shadchanit that truly shocked and upset her. My friend, whom we shall call Leah, had contacted a shadchanit, as she had decided to take a proactive role regarding her dating life. The shadchanit referred her to anoth- er woman who viewed Leah’s Facebook page and then called her. She told Leah that she had viewed her profi le and no- ticed that Leah did not look consistent in all her photos. The following is Leah’s de- scription: “She proceeded to explain, after go- ing through several of my profi le pic- tures, that it had become clear to her that I had lost a lot of weight. (She also asked me how much weight I lost...I calmly told her that I didn’t know her and that’s a pretty personal question). I still didn’t understand what she was getting at. She 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 43 HEALTH AND FITNESS and one kugel and ending with a dessert Fighting Obesity by Design of fruit or one cake? Now our meals have endless courses, multiple main dishes, By Rabbi Efrem Goldberg person must distance himself from those countless side dishes, and practically a things that cause his body damage.” Viennese table of desserts. Our Bubbie’s recently spent a couple of days at Dis- Many explanations and reasons are gefi lte fi sh, chicken and matzah ball soup Ineyworld with my sister and broth- suggested for the Torah’s kashrus laws, and simple recipes are not sophisticated er and their families, who were visiting though ultimately they remain a chok, a enough for us. We need tri-colored gefi lte from Israel. As we walked through the divinely ordained diet. Whatever the rea- fi sh, tri-colored matzah balls, and menus parks, a few of my nephews and nieces son, it is clear that a commitment to a rig- that would challenge the Next Iron Chef. independently shared the same observa- orous kosher lifestyle is to ingrain with- Of course I am not blaming Susie tion: “Why are people in America so fat?” in us a sense of discipline, self-control, Fishbein or authors of similar kosher While their comment may not be polit- restraint and the capacity to honor lim- cookbooks. To her credit, Chef Susie has ically correct or sensitively articulated, its and boundaries. These are the exact written a cookbook on healthy living A good friend, Rabbi Zvi Engel, recent- it is accurate. According to the Centers same attributes and qualities necessary called Kosher by Design Lightens Up. Ul- ly wrote a message to his congregation for Disease Control and Prevention, over to have healthy eating habits. timately, the responsibility falls to us to about Friday’s fast, Asara B’Teives. He be- one-third of adults in America are clini- It is ironic, therefore, that many of limit our menus, choose healthy recipes gan: cally obese. us who are strict and disciplined ad- and bring the same mindfulness to the “A friend recently sent me the follow- In fact, a few years ago Disney had herents to the laws of kashrus, struggle health impact of what we eat that we do ing line now making the rounds: Black to shut down its signature “It’s a Small greatly to apply the same vigilance and to the kashrus of what we eat. Together, Friday: Because only in America do peo- World” ride for major renovations. Inter- mindfulness to portion control and eat- we can create a new culture of simplifi ed ple trample over others for sales, exact- estingly, when it reopened, it looked ex- ing only healthy foods. I know fi rst-hand meals presented in a healthier fashion. It ly one day after being thankful for what actly as it had beforehand. So what did the challenge of healthy eating habits begins in our homes, at our kitchen and they have. Tomorrow we observe a Black they renovate? It turns out, Disney had as I have struggled personally and eve- dining room tables, but it extends to the Friday of another kind, as we recall the to widen the boats and deepen the ride’s ry time I think I have changed my eat- menu and options at kiddushes at shul dark day when the Babylonians laid siege channel in order to accommodate for ing lifestyle permanently, I fi nd myself and the snacks we provide through the to Yerushalayim, a precursor to what we the weight increase in the average vis- reverted back to bad habits and bulg- youth department. would soon lose with the churban, the itors to Disney. The ride was originally ing belt. My intent is not to be judgmen- Fewer courses and fewer options at destruction of the fi rst Beit HaMikdash. designed and built in 1963 on the statis- tal or critical. For some, weight is a func- our Shabbos meals will lessen the fi nan- If we ever take Yerushalayim for grant- tics of the time that indicated an average tion of genetics and factors beyond just cial burden, physical drain and even emo- ed, this date calls us to remember a time adult male rider would weigh 175 pounds self-control. I am also very sensitive to tional stress on those shopping for and when our nation was on the brink, about and a female rider 135. However, with the the issues of body image and eating dis- preparing the meal. Setting food up on to lose its central address as a people, and increase in fast food, junk food and “su- orders and the danger of overemphasis a buffet rather than leaving it on the ta- to recognize that a Yerushalayim isolated per-sized” food, adults today frequently on weight and diet. I am simply trying to ble will eliminate mindless nibbling and and besieged ought to cause us discom- weigh north of 200 pounds. Increasing- call our attention to an unintended con- noshing at endless meals. Being forced fort, an awareness of hunger in an empty ly, over-weighted boats would get to cer- sequence of elaborate and endless Shab- to get up to get more food will likely in- stomach that longs for sustenance.” tain points in the ride and bottom out, bos and yom tov meals. crease thoughtfulness about whether or Upon seeing the message, a mutu- becoming stuck in the fl ume. This week, our local JCC and Winn not we are really still hungry. Even if we al good friend, Rabbi Shalom Baum re- Forbes magazine reported at the time Dixie supermarket hosted celebrity chef enjoy spending all evening or afternoon marked, “And how will we behave at kid- that, ironically, customers whose boats Susie Fishbein, author of the Kosher by with friends, we should bentch as soon as dush the day after our black Friday.” The got stuck and whose rides needed to be Design cookbook series. The room was the meal is done and enjoy each other’s truth is, we don’t even need to wait un- aborted were given free vouchers for the overfl owing for her demonstration as company on the couch or around an emp- til kiddush on Shabbos morning to deter- food court to compensate them. It may her fans turned out in droves to learn ty table, rather than sit there and contin- mine if we have retained the lesson of be a small world after all, but we, the in- more about her techniques, recipes and ue to eat, even though we are beyond full. Friday’s fast. habitants of that world, are getting larg- presentations. In 2008, the Forward listed This past Sunday, our wonderful Changing eating habits is incredibly er and larger, heavier and heavier, every her as one of the 50 most infl uential Jews BRS Sisterhood sponsored an incredible hard if we do it alone. However, if we single day. in America. There is no doubt that Chef Women’s Health and Halacha Day. Close work together to create a culture of sim- Safeguarding our health and pre- Susie has done a great service to our com- to 150 women from all over South Flori- plicity and healthy choices at our Shab- serving our wellbeing are fundamen- munity by raising the level of sophistica- da gathered to address topics such as ge- bos and y om tov meals, we can radically tal Torah values. “V’nishmartem m’od tion of kosher recipes and food. Howev- netic testing, birth control, the agunah improve the well-being of our communi- l’nafshoseichem.” Though the verse in er, I worry that her books have also raised crisis, domestic violence and intimacy. ty. At dinner tonight, after breaking our context is actually referring to some- the level of expectation, competition, ef- Programs such as this can effectively in- fast, which was designed to remind us thing else, our rabbis have encouraged us fort, cost and consumption at today’s typ- spire our community to elevate our com- that we can live without food, let’s show to interpret it to mean, “be exceedingly ical Shabbos and yom tov meals. mitment to living healthier lives. We that for now on we eat to live instead of cautious regarding your well-being.” The Do you remember when a Shab- are already working on next year’s pro- living to eat. Rambam (Hilchos Dei’os 4) writes: “For bos meal consisted of a piece of fi sh or gram that will focus on nutrition, raising the body to be healthy and wholesome is a slice of melon, or a bowl of soup fol- healthy children, health challenges of ag- Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is the rabbi of the Boca Ra- among the ways of Hashem…therefore a lowed by one main dish, one side dish, ing and more. ton Synagogue and grew up in Teaneck. ples enter marriage armed with little un- lying and undiagnosed sexual dysfunc- UNCONSUMMATED derstanding of anatomy and basic physi- tion. ology of sexual function. It is essential for a couple entering By Rivki Chudnoff PT, MSPT marriages. While the exact incidence of Diffi culty transitioning: In the ob- into marriage to have a thorough under- unconsummated marriage in the obser- servant community, modesty and absti- standing of both male and female anat- lanning a wedding involves endless vant Jewish community has not been nence prior to marriage are often expect- omy and sexual functioning. If either Ppreparations. A hall is booked, the published, a pilot study found surpris- ed norms. Many couples have diffi culty bride or groom has physical or emotion- perfect fl oral arrangements are chosen, ingly higher rates than anticipated. transitioning from this phase in their lives al health issues that may interfere with table linens are ordered and a delecta- Couples who face this challenge to the next phase where physical intima- intimacy, it is always preferable that ble menu is designed. The best band in come from a broad range of religious ob- cy is shared in the context of marriage. those issues be resolved prior to mar- town is booked. Elegant clothing is cho- servance, as it is not exclusively any one Incongruent expectations: Husband riage. It is also essential that women vis- sen for the bride and groom, as well as population that struggles with this is- and wife may each enter marriage with it their gynecologist prior to marriage, if for each and every family member. But, sue. When left untreated over time, this their own expectation of “How things they have not already done so. The long- what has been done to prepare our beau- often becomes the source of tension are supposed to be,” both for the wed- er a couple waits before seeking appro- tiful new chattan and kallah for what and disharmony between an otherwise ding night and the months that follow. priate treatment, the more challenging it awaits them after the band has packed happy and peaceful couple. Biomechanical issues: Lack of body becomes for them to break old patterns up and this joyful and exhausted new Why do some couples have diffi cul- awareness may cause couples to have and develop behaviors conducive to con- couple leaves the wedding hall alone, ty in this area? diffi culty fi guring out how their bodies summating their marriage. Anxiety and for the fi rst time, as husband and wife? Lack of education: While both bride move. Physical limitations or disabilities tension may result from repeated failed In my practice as a physical therapist, and groom may hold advanced academic may also present challenges in this area. attempts and can contribute to the prob- I have treated many young women who degrees and are otherwise well-educated Sexual dysfunction: In some cases, have had diffi culty consummating their and enlightened individuals, many cou- husband, wife or both may have under- CONTINUED ON P. 45 44 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM HEALTH AND FITNESS Progressive Development: The Key to Realizing Your Potential By Chemmie Sokolic ways move forward, always strive to do of Lao-tzu, the ancient Chinese philos- better today than you did yesterday, with opher, “A journey of a thousand steps n the last issue of the the ultimate goal of being better tomor- starts with one.” We must all begin some- IJewish Link I presented row than you are today, and one day, where. eight ideas to enhance with Hashem’s grace, realizing your po- You CAN be that strong, you CAN run your exercise experience, tential. that distance, you CAN do anything you adding fun and inspira- Progressive development is not a set your mind to. It took you a while to tion to what, for many people, can feel lofty philosophical aspiration. Not only get to where you are now, and it’ll take like a chore at best, to something that should you view it as absolutely attain- you a while to get to where you’re going, should be avoided at all costs, at worst. able, but a chiyuv for each and every one so be prepared for the long haul. There’s In fact, viewing exercise negatively at all of us. A day you haven’t tried to improve no easy fi x, there’s no magic bullet; just is, I would argue, tantamount to disdain- yourself and/or your environment is a hard work, discipline, commitment and you’re truly capable of. ing one of Hashem’s mitzvot. day wasted. the determination to take things one Let me end with a poem written by Indeed, like many commandments With regards to exercise, this could step at a time, one meal at a time, and Donna Levine I’ve always held dear to we must perform, one can demonstrate mean running just 10 seconds longer one day at a time. Small steps are easy my heart: differing levels of commitment and love. than you did yesterday; fi nishing one and, just like the shaky steps of a toddler, There is inside of you all of the poten- If you exercise at all, do you do it half- more rep than you pushed out during even though you may fall down, you tial to be whatever you want to be – all heartedly and sporadically? How impor- your last workout; or lifting a few more must resolve to get right up again, brush the energy to do whatever you want to tant is being healthy to you? Yes, some- pounds on the barbell than you managed yourself off and keep on moving. All you do. Imagine yourself as you would like to thing is better than nothing, and learning the previous week. Whatever the im- can do is your best. Each day, moving just be, doing what you want to do, and each even a single posuk a day is better than provement, always improve. Never stay a little more, growing just a little more, day take one step towards your dream. never opening up a sefer. But is that why stationary; never be satisfi ed with simply pushing your limits just a little more. And though at times it may be too diffi - Hashem created us? To cruise through repeating the same workout week after You are confi ned only by the walls cult to continue, hold on to your dream. life, only aiming for a “C-grade,” setting week, month after month. Never let your you build yourself, and are constrained One morning you will awake to fi nd that our bar low enough to barely succeed workouts grow stale. Never let your am- only by your imagination and emunah. you are the person you dreamed of—doing just so we can stroke our ego and kid our- bitions wither. Never let your life fade be- Mitzrayim, the land from which we were what you want to do—simply because you selves into thinking we’re doing all we fore your eyes; just as we should evolve, redeemed, as we are currently reading, had the courage to believe in your poten- can? one day at a time, so can we also falter, literally means “borders” or “boundaries.” tial and to hold on to your dream. Don’t treat your health as something gradually, but very surely, one day at a When Hashem gave us the freedom to es- you merely maintain; view it as some- time. cape Mitzrayim, he gave us the ability to Chemmie Sokolic is an A CSM-certifi ed Personal thing to improve. Don’t grow older, don’t Last time we discussed setting short, break through our own boundaries; we Trainer, and owner of Frum & Fit LLC. Chemmie can grow tired, just grow. It’s a myth that we medium and long term goals to push us shattered our shackles, and that’s why be r eached a t chemmie .sokolic@frumandfi t.com. must all age, with progressive degenera- forward. Losing 50 pounds might seem we survive. Always push your limits. If Visit w ww.FrumandFit.com or w ww.Facebook. tion our only lot in life. No! Rather than impossible, but losing 5 pounds is cer- you don’t, you’ll never know how much com/FrumandFit for more information. “progressive degeneration,” let me im- tainly doable. Completing 20 pull-ups or part to you the secret to achieving one’s 50 pushups in a row may seem like the potential: progressive development. stuff of legend when doing even fi ve in This simple idea allowed Alexander a row can feel impossible, but surely per- the Great to create one of the largest em- forming just one or two reps is well with- pires in the ancient world; it forged the in everyone’s reach. The idea of running very heart of the United States; and it’s a marathon is likely totally preposter- MORTGAGES the essence of humankind’s continual ous to most people, but jogging around advancement. Progressive development the block should not be something that is simply the principle that one must al- scares you. 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Nat | NMLS #64801 Bess Berger Nutrition Consulting :LUPVY3VHU6MÄJLY Bess Berger, RD, CDN P: 201.808.7150 C: 201.403.4011 Registered Dietitian F: 201.808.7250 Counseling on general nutrition and medically related nutrition therapy E. [email protected] Cross River Bank 885 Teaneck Road Teaneck, NJ 07666 www.CrossRiverBank.com Located in Teaneck, right off Cedar Lane (201) 837-0546 [email protected] Major insurances accepted 3-visit and 5-visit Packages Available 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 45 46 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM LOCAL HISTORY The Gomez Mill House: An American Jewish Treasure By Jeanette Friedman dent) of the Shearith Israel congrega- (from an article I wrote many years ago tion, the oldest Kehillah in New York under the pen name Aliza Daniels) City. Descendants of the Gomez fami- ly include prominent American Jews: arlboro, NY—Come this spring, Isaac Franks, one of George Washing- Mthere’s a place to visit just a ways up ton’s aides; U.S. Supreme Court Justice Rte. 9 W, a straight drive up the Palisades Benjamin Cardozo, and Emma Lazarus, Parkway and beyond. There is a brick the poet whose words about “huddled and stone blockhouse at the side of an masses yearning to breathe free” now old Indian footpath along Jew’s Creek— reside on the Statue of Liberty in New a shimmering, skittering stream that York Harbor. No strangers to persecu- powers the hand-made paper mill that tion, the Gomez family may have built sits over it. The path leads to the Devil’s the underground passageway leading to Danskammer (The Devil’s Dance Cham- an escape route along Jew’s Creek. It is ber) on the banks of the Hudson Riv- rumored that they paid far beyond the er (the North River), where Henry Hud- market price for the lands they bought, son’s sailors deserted in fright when leading to speculation about anti-Semi- they saw the Native Americans do ritu- tism in Colonial America. al dances around blazing fi res. Some historians wondered if the The house is a pre-revolutionary hidden passage was used as part of the gem of Jewish-American history, nes- house,” her mom said. “You have to love As they discovered more about the Underground Railroad during the Civ- tled in a settled land whose pastures the guy.” history of the region, the Starins learned il War. (Unlike other American slave felt the republic born—it was built in A few years later Millie married Jeff about the rich multicultural ancestry owners, the Gomez family followed 1714, and now celebrates its 300 birth- Starin from Brooklyn, NY. In 1946, when and pioneering spirit of the home they the laws of Leviticus, and offered their day. That’s almost 50 years before the they were asked to house-sit at the were restoring. Realizing that the house slaves freedom after seven years.) Baal Shem Tov was born in Europe! It Gomez the Jew House, Jeff carried his must be documented in local archives, During the Revolutionary War, Dan- is in the region made famous by Wash- very pregnant wife over the threshold, Millie approached the town historian, iel Gomez sold the house to one of ington Irving, where gentlemen farm- because, Millie said, she felt that one who gave her the ancient warranty on George Washington’s lieutenants, Wolf- ers now tend cornfi elds that once were day it would be hers. the house and its land. ert Acker, who often plotted the strat- battlefi elds. It is fi ve miles north of the It happened sooner than even she Previous owners brought back ob- egy of the Revolution in the old stone Rte. 84 overpass to the Beacon Bridge could believe, during the treacherous jects they had removed from the prem- blockhouse. Acker’s slaves added the and beyond Newburgh. Blizzard of 1947, one Millie never for- ises, and in the stables, Millie found second fl oor to the house, building it The house, a National Landmark got. On that glacially dangerous day, the a bonanza of antiques dating back with bricks manufactured on the banks since 1973, is known in the local ver- local minister arrived at her door and through all the previous owners. Some of the nearby river. Acker lived in the nacular as Gomez the Jew’s House on pleaded with her to go to the house be- of the pieces came from the original house for half a century, but in the lat- Jew’s Creek, and it is the oldest exist- cause he feared for its occupants. When fi eldstone blockhouse built by Louis ter part of the 18th century, the house ing house built by a Jew in all of North Millie arrived, she discovered the own- Moses Gomez, a Converso who escaped fell to neglect. Eventually it was pur- America—and it’s also the oldest house er with a gun in his hand in the upstairs the Inquisition with the help of King chased by the Armstrong family, well- in Orange County, NY. Until it was pur- servants’ quarters and his wife, almost Philip, during the mid-17th century. The known for its writers, statesmen and chased by the Gomez Foundation for comatose from alcohol poisoning, in a old brass Chanukia has graced the walls artists. Mill House in 1984, it was owned by an beautiful four-poster bed in the master since the house was built. Descendants of Peter Stuyvesant, extraordinary woman named Mildred suite. In a panic, she called for help. Louis Moses Gomez’s father or governor of Neuwe Amsterdam, they Starin and her husband, Jeff, who had Jeff braved the elements with the grandfather (history is still not clear lived in the Devil’s Danskammer. Then lived in it since 1948 and raised their baby in tow. Realizing the couple need- on that) was imprisoned for more than in 1903, an artist and American crafts- four children there. ed immediate attention at an alcoholic a decade, but his children escaped to man, Dard Hunter, bought the house Millie, a native of the area, discov- treatment center, the Starins bundled France, made their way to England, and restored the mill, where he creat- ered the house in the late 1930’s, when the baby, the owners and themselves where Queen Anne issued Louis Moses ed handmade papers that were prized she was hired to exercise the hors- into the car for the hazardous 10-mile Gomez a Denizen’s certifi cate, which for their quality. He added furnishings es for the property owners. She fell in trip south to Cornwall. Giving up their allowed him to buy land and have the to the house designed by his friends in love with it. Deeply disappointed by nest egg for the deposit on the treat- same rights as Christians. Gomez ar- the arts and crafts movement and be- the owners’ lack of appreciation for ment for their neighbors, the Starins rived in New York City in 1703, and went gan to restore the house. their home, she vowed that one day the were offered a priceless antique clock into the shipping business. By boat, When the U.S. entered World War I, house would be hers. She managed to from the house as collateral. A day lat- Gomez wandered upriver, like many Hunter thought he would be drafted, so become engaged to the owners’ son, er, they were called and told that the merchant/explorers of his time. There, he sold the house to Ms. Martha Gruen- but the moment her mother found house was up for sale. Begging, borrow- in the shadows of Storm King Moun- ing, who wanted to open a Libertarian out about it—when she came home ing and selling everything they had for tain, he traded with Native Americans school at the site—though he told peo- with a diamond and emerald ring—she the down payment, they got a G.I. loan, and acted as a bridge between the co- ple he’d sold it to the Russian govern- was forced to give it right back. “You bought the house, moved in and began lonials and the indigenous population. ment. The house went through a suc- don’t marry a guy because you love his to clean it up. By 1714, Louis Moses Gomez and his cession of owners until Millie Starin sons built a fi eldstone blockhouse/trad- and her husband Jeff rescued it in 1948. ing post and grist mill on a major Indi- “The Gomez House infl uenced the an footpath leading down to the North course of my life more than anything River. (The Delaware River is the South else. For almost 50 years, I was guard- River.) They would spend weekdays in ian of the stones, bricks and timbers the mountains, trading furs, supplies that have been silent witness to a spir- and “tchotchkes” with the locals. Shab- it of freedom and understanding in re- bos was spent in shul in New York City. ligious and racial matters. The house They dealt with settlers and trappers is a symbol of Jewish pioneering, of heading north and the few remaining Jewish initiative, of unwavering vigor Lenape still trading along the river. The and endurance that has been silent too two-foot thick walls of the trading post, long. two original fi replaces and remnants “Indians, Jews, Dutchmen, English- of the old limestone fl oors still remain, men, slaves, owners of slaves, artists, as does the Mill House, which was re- writers, statesmen, patriots, farmers stored in 2010. and industrialists have met, sat, lived, As the Gomez family prospered, they loved and even fought in this house. It bought up 6,500 acres of acres in the illuminates our American heritage and Newburgh area, and became real estate stands as a memorial to Moses Louis brokers in Manhattan. By 1728, Gomez senior was chosen as parnas (presi- CONTINUED ON P. 50 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 47 BOOKS A Different Way to Lean In Eishet Chayil Lihi Lapid and A Woman of Valor By P’nina Seplowitz By Beth Kissileff istening to Lihi Lapin discuss her Reprinted with permission from www.TheTower.org Lbook in a room fi lled with estab- lished women who devote their lives Part One to the betterment of Jewish estab- Jewish women are not shy about lishments in both the U.S. and Israel giving advice. In the 2013 U.S. bestsell- was inspiring. But watching the wife er, Lean In, Jewish author Sheryl Sand- of Finance Minister Yair Lapid, suc- berg tells women they are in charge of cessful in her own right, candidly de- their own destinies in the workplace. picting her struggles and the plight of The only thing holding them back is the modern woman, moved me be- themselves. She advises young wom- yond words. en to put in more time, work harder, She began by saying, “It took me and be more committed to their pro- a long time to realize that it is okay fessional development. “Women,” she if my house is not perfectly neat says, “are hindered by barriers that ex- and I am not perfectly dressed.” She ist within ourselves.” And only wom- said we all face challenges as mod- en, according to Sandberg, can solve ern women to be the good moth- the problems of getting more wom- er, caring wife, loyal employee and en into positions of power and strik- dear friend. We simply cannot con- ing the all-important balance between trol every aspect of our lives and ac- work and family. knowledging this truth provides us Jewish women give advice in Isra- showing the collective nature of Israe- me.” with a level of comfort and accept- el too, but their bestsellers may have a li culture, and its ability to resist the She learned the hard way how lim- ance. It doesn’t matter what our re- different message. Lihi Lapid, column- temptation of false optimism. ited such a view can be. Until her ligious observance, or what our fi - ist at the newspaper Yediot Aharonot Woman of Valor has an unusual fi rst pregnancy, Lapid’s life seemed nancial status, we are all Women of for ten years and wife of current Israeli structure, in that the story of the name- to prove that “leaning in” works. In a Valor. Finance Minister Yair Lapid, is the au- less narrator is told as a fairy tale writ- recent interview with Ha’aretz, Lap- The book includes excerpts from thor of Woman of Valor, her fi rst book ten by a “princess” about her “prince” id said that when she joined the IDF women living in Israel who sent to be translated into English (Gefen, husband and their children, the “heir” photo corps, she was handed a bag questions and comments about their 2013). It deals with many of the same and the “heiress.” The narrative is then containing 20 kilos of photography struggles with motherhood, work or issues as Sandberg’s book, particularly intercut with real letters sent to Lapid equipment and asked whether she relationships to Lihi at Yediot Ahar- the challenges faced by modern wom- by readers of her columns. This under- could pick it up and run with it. Lap- onot, where she has been a column- en. But the message of Lapid’s book is lines the importance Lapid places on id responded, “Did you ask any of the ist for years. Without realizing it, very different from Sandberg’s. letting her readers know that, as one men you interviewed for this job the Lihi broke down religious barriers Sandberg’s message is that wom- reader Daphna puts it, “My little wor- same question? Because if you didn’t, and created a sense of unity among en are in charge of their lives. She tells ries are those of every mother, wife, I’m not going to answer it.” She got her readers. A haredi mother of eight her readers “internal obstacles deserve and woman. As special as I am, I’m just the job. from Bnei Brak and the secular wom- a lot more attention, in part because like everyone else. There is something On Thursday, October 13, 1994, the an from Tel Aviv experience the same they are under our control.” Lapid, by comforting and at the same time di- family of soldier Nahshon Wachsman, dilemmas, trying to fi nd the balance contrast, speaks about lack of control. minishing in this recognition.” who had been kidnapped and held between work and family. Her read- Sandberg opens with a story about Lapid’s project, in other words, be- captive by Hamas, held a prayer vigil ers opened her eyes and reaffi rmed how Google had no designated park- gins with the full-on acknowledge- at the Western Wall attended by over the notion that we are our biggest ing spots for pregnant women while ment of the diffi culty of marriage, 100,000 people. Of all the photogra- critics and have fairy-tale expecta- she was working there. Lapid opens motherhood, and career. Indeed, phers from international news agen- tions. She suggests we focus on en- with a story about being confi ned to the protagonist admits to bouts cies who were present at the event, joying moments of happiness in our bed during the last six months of her of depression and floats the idea Lapid was the only woman, and thus lives to achieve individual fulfi ll- pregnancy. Indeed, Sandberg’s unmiti- of a temporary separation from the only one who managed to pho- ment. gated cheer and celebration of control her husband, as well as coping tograph Wachsman’s mother Esther What I loved most about Women contrast powerfully with Lapid’s un- with a special-needs child and the praying in the women’s section of the of Valor was that every chapter was blinking honesty and endorsement of major career shift from that of a Wall. The shots were published by introduced with a quote from Tan- embracing others in the face of the un- photojournalist who had a gallery news agencies around the world. ach. I have spent time speaking with controllable. These qualities give the show at the age of 26 to a writer who When I interviewed Lapid on her both Lihi and Minister Lapid, and book a particularly Israeli character, works in her basement next to the recent book tour of the United States, it is clear that they consider them- washing machine. she excitedly recounted how “every- selves secular Jews, with a different At one point in Sandberg’s book, one wanted the pictures” she had tak- emphasis on Torah observance than the author brags about once asking en of the soldier’s mother. The Wachs- I have. But deep down in their core, television journalist Tom Brokaw how man photos came to signify Lapid’s there is a love for Judaism, a love for she could have done better in their in- persona as a young photographer Israel and a connection to our histo- terview. Brokaw tells her she is only ready and willing to go anywhere and ry as a people, a history that binds all the second person in his entire career do anything to get the shot everybody Jews. Each within their respective ca- to ask for feedback. By contrast, Lap- wanted. reers; Lihi in her writing, and Minis- id’s unvarnished assessment of wom- But Woman of Valor presents a ter Lapid in his role in the Knesset, en’s lives implies that one should not much more complicated reality. The strive to create a more progressive, be constantly asking how to do things book opens with an account of Lapid’s inclusive and respectful approach to better. Instead, the most important experience covering the genocide in Israeli society. thing one can learn is how to have Rwanda, where she witnessed the hor- “moments of happiness” by acknowl- rors of the warring Hutus and Tutsis. “I P’nina Seplowitz lives in B ergenfi eld and is edging certain unavoidable realities. tried to hide behind the camera,” she the Executive Director of American F riends of One of the most important of these writes, “struggling to maintain sanity Yesh Atid, a non-profi t organization that sup- is the fact that there are moments in in the presence of all the inconceiva- ports social pr ograms in Isr ael. P ’nina is also life when “leaning in” still leaves many ble pain and sorrow, death, helpless- the VP of Mark eting for an online magazine factors out of one’s control. In a state- ness, and doom.” When Lapid discov- subscription company and has author ed two ment Sandberg would never condone, ered an abandoned boy she guessed to books: O nce Upon A Vegetable, a childr en’s Lapid writes that she had mistakenly be no more than two years old, she de- book, and White Angel , her gr andmother’s “thought if I only tried hard enough, cided to adopt him and take him back Holocaust memoir. Visit www.PninaSeplowitz. I’d succeed. Because I’d been told, my com for more information. entire life, that it depended only on CONTINUED ON P. 50 48 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM FEATURES The Rabbi’s Musings (and Amusings) By Rabbi Dani Staum downstairs.” must mean “good at gym,” until I realized ney through this world grants us the op- I must admit that I actually have that there must have been a box of them portunity to earn our rightful share in the ur family enjoyed no idea what Kokoshi Dojo is. [I enjoy left in a dumpster somewhere.] But I did World to Come and be able to appreciate Othis past Shabbos Kokush cake, but I don’t think there is think it was a funny thing to have, so I the eternal good that awaits us. In that at my parent’s home. any connection.] The story behind that brought it home. sense, the World to Come is a trophy that Now that our children trophy dates back to when I was in 10th Chazal relate that the purpose of we can only enjoy if we have earned it. are getting older, they grade. During that year, for our once a our descent into this world is to afford For all these years, the Kokoshi Dojo enjoy rummaging week physical education period, we had us the opportunity to earn our right- trophy was proudly on display upon the through my things that are still in my old a gym teacher who wasn’t exactly the ful share in the eternal world. When we shelf in my room. And now (sniff) the tro- room (there’s a reason most of that stuff sharpest tool in the shed. Other than the achieve something through arduous ef- phy has been passed on to the next gen- is still there). Among his other fi nds, our fact that his father’s name was Jim, I am fort and exertion, we are proud of our eration, so that my son can always re- oldest son, Shalom, was most intrigued not really sure what his qualifi cations accomplishment and can appreciate it. member that his father received a trophy by a trophy which had a depiction of a were to teach gym. To keep us in line he Receiving a free gift without earning it, that was completely unwarranted. man in karate-kick position with the promised us that if we behaved and “did however, breeds a certain level of em- words “Second place Kokoshi Dojo con- well in gym” (whatever that means) we barrassment. We only feel accomplished Rabbi Dani Staum, LMSW, is the Rabbi of Kehillat test” attached to the marble base. would get trophies. and fulfi lled when we earn our keep. New Hempstead, and the Guidance Counselor/Reb- “Abba, you know how to do karate?” After a few months of badgering, If God would merely place us in the be at Yeshiva Bais Hachinuch & Ashar in Monsey, NY. “Um, not really.” he actually delivered on his word and eternal world without our earning it In addition he is a Division Head at Camp Dora Gold- “So where did you get the trophy brought in a few trophies. I must ad- we would be unable to appreciate it. ing for bo ys during the summer . He is the author from?” mit that I wasn’t all that proud of the The Zohar terms that feeling “Nahama of Stam Torah and can be r eached at stamtorah@ “Shalom, I think Bubby is calling you trophy. [At fi rst I thought Kokoshi Dojo d’keesufa– the bread of shame.” Our jour- gmail.com. His website is www.stamtorah.info. NEW IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Snow and Hakoras Hatov By Mordechai and out them. We, in fact, decided to buy to the warming weather, not noticing recognition is probably the highest form Nina Glick snow tires here in New Jersey, because that all of our neighbors still had snow of chesed. we drive to Montreal practically every covering their asphalt. However, several We still remember the day many, s former snow- three weeks and are afraid to drive there days later in the midst of a greater snow- many years ago when Zundel Berman, the Abirds we are ac- without them. Believe it or not, we could fall, we happened by chance to look out- “seforim salesman” who sold books from customed to the not fi nd one store in the area that had side our window and saw our son-in- his station wagon in Washington Heights snow. It made us laugh just a few months snow tires in stock. We fi nally ordered law, Chaim, and his son Ezra, shoveling outside the YU Bais Medrash, came to tell after we moved here and we watched them from Costco, where they got them away. Aside from the fact that they are us that someone had purchased a shaas our elderly neighbor (rumor has it she is from Texas! It amazed us that our snow both much cuter than John Polisena and for us. The donor wished to be anon- 92) shoveling the two fl akes of snow that tires were coming all of the way from the much less expensive, we could not be- ymous, and although we tried several had fallen on her driveway. We laughed Lone Star State. It took a week, but they lieve our eyes. Another reminder of what times to fi nd out in our own devious way because two hours later the temperature arrived and are now on our car. it means to live close to family. How re- who had done this, we were never able to rose to 50 degrees and everything melted As well, homeowners in the Cote St markable it is to see your children teach- fi nd him. Every once and awhile we think immediately. Luc-Hampstead area, which is where we ing their own children how to respect he may be living in Teaneck or in Yerush- Montreal is a city that is totally pre- lived, across the board have snow remov- and honor their grandparents by sharing alayim? We will never know—and again, pared for a major snow fall. The city al done professionally by their garden- with them in such acts of kindness and another chesed which touched us warmly sends mini plows up and down the side- er. It makes sense that you cannot hire chesed. We would not even have known from an unknown source. walks clearing the snow from them. someone to just work for you in the win- that our driveway and stairs were shov- Had we not looked out our window Within a few hours, unless there is a ma- ter months during the throes of a ma- eled by them had we not happened to just by chance, again, we would not have jor downfall of several feet, the city re- jor storm. Instead one must hire their look outside. The pride and joy that we known how the snow magically disap- mains totally mobile and it is most un- gardeners for the entire year to do your feel watching our children raise their peared from our stairs and driveway. common for the airport to be closed. lawn work as well. You pay them even if children in such a special way is hard to Magic is not only in Disneyworld, but Kids are thoroughly disappointed be- there is no snow—a rare occurrence. describe. Doing mitzvoth without any also on the streets of Bergenfi eld! cause school rarely closes. Our gardener, for years, was John Poli- The Province of Quebec enacted a sena. He inherited the business from his About the Glicks - Rabbi Mordechai Glick enjoyed a long career in the rabbinate and academia – serving as the rab- law several years ago that no one is al- father and we leaned on his reliability to bi of a number of shuls in the Mon treal area and teaching psychology full-time at Champlain College. Nina Glick lowed to drive a car without snow tires have our driveway plowed early in the led Yachad in Montreal for over 10 years and was closely involved in the Special Needs Community. The Glicks have from December 15 – March 15. Steep fi nes morning so that we could get out quick- three children in the NYC area daughters and sons-in law living in the Teaneck, Bergenfi eld area tog ether with nine are imposed upon anyone driving with- ly and be off to work. Fast forward to our grandchildren. They have participated frequently in the OU Marriage Retreat new life in Bergen- fi eld. There has been a consistent snow- fall for the past few days, which defi nite- ly makes the roads hazardous, walking sometimes is treach- erous if ice forms on the sidewalks and, nevertheless, we as- sumed that it would get warm and that the snow would be- gin to melt. Lo and behold the fi rst time that our drive- way seemed clear of snow after we re- turned home from a Shabbos in Roch- ester, we credited it 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 49 FEATURES Teaneck Son is Sharpshooter, Explosives Expert in Golani Brigade By Elizabeth Kratz for army service and was put on a base with 600 foreigners to do three weeks of eaneck -- Pinchas Shalom Silberstein, basic training. Some foreigners are lone T22, studied at Moriah and TABC, went soldiers like Silberstein, but others are to Yeshiva in Israel at Netiv Aryeh, and those who have moved to the country now he’s a lone soldier in the Golani, an within the past seven years, and may take elite brigade of foot soldiers that is the longer to adjust to the army. “I request- most highly decorated and exclusive in- ed Golani and so did 200 of the other sol- fantry unit of the Israel Defense Forces. diers. Somehow I was lucky enough to be “I’ve earned the right to say this is my one of six foreigners accepted,” he said. country, this is my home and I’m doing After his year and a half of duty in the something for it,” Silberstein said. Golani Brigade, the maximum time foreign- Silberstein was fl own home recent- ers can serve, Silberstein came home, but ly to give a presentation about being a soon decided to make aliyah. He returned lone soldier for Friends of the IDF, which to the same unit, with the same fellow sol- raises considerable funds to support diers. “We do arrest patrols, ambushes and lone soldiers, at events in Miami and the anything else asked of us. I have been sta- Meadowlands, in East Rutherford, NJ. At- tioned in Ramallah, on the border of Gaza, tending the Meadowlands event were the border of Egypt,” he said. Silberstein’s parents, Rabbi Harvey and “I am a reconnaissance sharpshooter Jan Silberstein of Teaneck. who specializes in demolition and explo- “To be a lone soldier is a little bit dif- sives,” Silberstein said. Rabbi Harvey and Mrs. Jan Silberstein, with Pinchas Silberstein, 22 is part of the Golani ferent than serving as a regular soldier Jan Silberstein said that her son has their son Pinchas, at a recent Friends of the infantry unit of the Israel Defense Forces because, as a regular soldier you get to go said that if he’s not willing to fi ght for IDF Gala. home, see loved ones, and as a lone sol- his country, he does not deserve to live dier, you don’t have that. In basic train- there. “They want real people there who and they are given extra time off to vis- and after release from the IDF. There are ing, after fi ve months of working hard, can be there to protect the country,” she it their families overseas and to take also three branches (Jerusalem, Tel Aviv there was Parents Day, and obviously said. “He’s always been very protective. care of personal business, such as laun- and Haifa) of the Lone Soldier Center your parents are on the other side of the He will always fi ght for the underdog, dry and banking, things parents often do in Memory of Michael Levin, which is world. So everyone shows up to hug their the weak person,” she said. for currently serving Israeli soldiers. Or- open 24 hours a day. The center assists son, and you just sit there and watch. It Last year, according to the Jewish ganizational funds raised, such as the lone soldiers with Shabbos and Yom Tov wasn’t a fun day, let’s put it that way,” Sil- Telegraphic Agency, there were approx- one maintained by Friends of the IDF, in meals, host families, counseling and oth- berstein said. imately 5,000 lone soldiers, with close partnership with Nefesh B’Nefesh, go to- er educational and social opportunities. Silberstein, instead of enrolling in col- to 40 percent serving in combat units. ward guidance, support and care for lone To contribute to Friends of the IDF lege back home after a year in a post-high About half are American. They are giv- soldiers at all stages of the process: pri- Loan Soldier program, please visit htt- school Israeli yeshiva, said he volunteered en extra monetary help with housing, or to Aliyah, throughout military service ps://www.fi df.org/donate. A Diff erent Way to Lean In- in the Journal of Internation- The Gomez Mill House: An al Women’s Studies, the sup- Lihi Lapid and A port of grandparents, who American Jewish Treasure often live close to their grand- Woman of Valor children and assist in dai- CONTINUED FROM P. 47 ly tasks, helps make Israel an CONTINUED FROM P. 48 easier place for women to bal- Gomez and his descendants, Group Tours of 10 or ance work and family. Sha- who—in striving for the more require advance reser- to Israel with her. She tele- grow.” Israelis are constantly lom-Tuchin found that, unlike new—did not tear down the vations (call 845-236-3126) o phoned her husband to let encouraged to have children. their counterparts in Europe old, and recognized the past All entries into the him know. At fi rst there was “Yeladim zeh simcha,” goes a and the United States, Israeli as the foundation for the fu- Gomez Mill House Site silence. Then he told her he popular saying, “children are women tend to start their ca- ture. Gomez is a hero.” Buildings require a gener- would “stand by my side no happiness.” Lapid points out reers and families simultane- Millie retired in 1996, a al admission. This includes matter what I decided.” Ulti- that Israel is one of the few ously. Lapid agrees with the full 50 years after Jeff car- those attending special mately, she was not permitted countries in the world whose study’s conclusions. In Israel, ried her over the threshold events with separate admis- to take the child, since his par- healthcare system covers fer- she says, “Kids are the fi rst pri- to house-sit. sion fees. ents’ deaths had not been con- tility treatments beyond the ority. There is a lot of support The Gomez Mill House is GENERAL ADMISSION: fi rmed, and there was a possi- fi rst child. “We can go into for mothers. There should be a public museum chartered $8.00 for adults $6.00 for bility they would return. the political issues about it,” m ore, always. But I think that in New York State. Direct senior citizens Lapid’s time in Rwanda she said to me, “from the be- it is more common that kids descendants of the own- $3.00 for children 6-18 changed her profoundly, tem- ginning of Judaism, to the re- go to day care from a very ear- ers and others dedicated to years old and students with pering her zest for photogra- action to the Holocaust, to ly age, until four in the after- the restoration and preser- ID phy and awakening her desire how many people we lost,” noon. Women in Israel have vation of Mill House and its Channel 13 members to be a mother. But it was not to the necessity to “build been working for many years mission, serve on the Foun- with ID: $5.00/adults; $2.00/ an easy transition. She was a new generation quickly.” now. So, yes, there is a big sup- dation Board. students & children 6-18 put on bed rest for the last six Yet the conversation quickly port system.” Annual Membership SPECIAL ADMISSION months of her fi rst pregnan- moves from the theoretical But Lapid’s message is that benefi ts include free access DATES: Mother’ Day and Fa- cy, during which she felt like a to the personal. She tells me having a career and a family is or discounted entry to the thers’ Day - Mothers and Fa- “stupid hippo” and gained “fi f- that her mother-in-law, writ- what she calls a “process.” It Museum and its programs. thers with children are free ty pounds and three chins in er Shulamit Lapid, reminded can’t be done all at once. The The 2014 Mill House Sea- on their special days. Or- front of my soap opera.” her that “we are the fi rst gen- main point of her columns, son opens on Sunday, April ange County Day (in June - The value Lapid places on eration of grandparents.” Be- she tells me, is that there is a 6, 2014 through November 9, TBD) - Free Admission to Or- parenthood is also especially cause of the Holocaust, “none need to balance “your dreams 2014 / Wednesday – Sunday. ange County residents with Israeli. During our interview, of us had grandparents,” and and your family needs.” She is ID. Free tours for veterans she told me, “Israel was estab- so, “grandparents are part of writing, she says, against the REGULAR HOURS: and active military person- lished on the idea of a small the family.” illusion that “all will be per- Guided Tours available at nel on Memorial Day July nation surrounded by a lot of According to a recent study fect and we will be perfect.” 10:30 am, 1:15 pm, 2:45 pm 4th weekends. big nations, and we need to by Bosmat Shalom-Tuchin To be Continued. 50 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 51 LOWEST FARES TO ISRAEL AND WORLDWIDE Main Street Travel is ready to help your travel plans take off! GREAT FARES INES ONON SSKYKY TEAMTEAM AIRLINESAIRL FLY TO ISRAEL NON-STOP THIS WINTER FOR ONLY$899 INCLUDING ALL TAXES AND FEES. Depart By March 22 2014 Limited Availability | Restrictions Apply YOUR FULL SERVICE TRAVEL AGENCY 845.425.2123 NEW LOCATION [email protected] 20 Robert Pitt Dr #207, Monsey NY AIR • HOTEL • CAR RENTALS • CELL PHONES •SIM CARDS • MIFI • NET STICKS • GPS • INSURANCE 52 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM CHESED Local Preps for Marathon By Tamar Herman The fact that Chai Lifeline had nally going to be the minimum a major presence in Teaneck, of $4,500, after nearing his lim- hen Saul Lejtman decid- where he lives, helped him to it, Dr. Lejtman realized how Wed to run in the Jerusalem actualize these thoughts and supportive the people around Marathon, getting a chance to register to donate his efforts to him were. He raised his initial raise money for Chai Lifeline Team Lifeline. goal to $7,500 and, with the while visiting his daughter in With the money raised by help of his friends and family, Israel seemed like a good idea. Dr. Lejtman and other Team Dr. Lejtman is once again close Since then, he’s raised over Lifeline runners, Chai Lifeline to achieving his goal. Dr. Lejt- $7,000, more than $2,000 over will be able to bring over 60 Is- man is planning on raising his the fundraising minimum for raeli children with cancer from goal once again, since there are Team Lifeline. its Israeli counterpart, Chai- more than three months until Dr. Lejtman, a dentist in Te- yanu, to the United States for the Jerusalem Marathon. nafl y, merely mused about run- Camp Simcha this summer. As Until heading to Isra- ning a marathon at fi rst. He a dentist, Dr. Lejtman admitted el for the marathon, Dr. Lejt- would get to exercise and lose that he couldn’t help but think man will be spending a lot of some weight while training, about the smiles of these chil- his time training for the race. snow, he has been training pri- Registration for running donate to a good cause and see dren thanks to the donations When weather has permitted, marily on the treadmill while with Team Lifeline is still open his daughter at her seminary in by Team Lifeline supporters. he has trained by running in listening to Daf Yomi shiurs at www.teamlifeline.org, where Israel if he ran the Jerusalem While Dr. Lejtman’s dona- the streets where he lives, but and catching up on television you can also fi nd Dr. Saul Lejt- Marathon on March 21 2014. tion to Team Lifeline was origi- due to inclement weather and shows. man’s personal runner page. Teaneck’s Baby Gemach By Elizabeth Kratz bly over the past few years, according to formula; I practically threw the cans at Ginnine. While they used to take in eve- her. Hashem is our partner and sends us eaneck—Did you know that diapers rything and store a lot in their basement the request and the donor usually very Tand regular formula for one child and garage, the Frieds, with their many close in time and makes the job easy,” costs as much as $280 a month? If you volunteers, have evolved and “fi gured she said. need specialty formula, costs can sky- out which items are in very high demand “After just a day, she called me crying rocket to $32 and beyond for each con- and will be needed in the short term, and and thanking me because for the fi rst tainer. we store those on a short term basis (a time in his life her baby had a normal Now imagine you have twins or tri- few months at most). The gemach largely poop. It might not sound so remarkable, plets and they are on specialty formu- runs on a ‘request’ basis, so that we keep but when you are a new mother for the la, and a family member has lost his job a list of ‘needs’ and when items come in fi rst time and dealing with a baby who is or is facing a medical condition with we distribute them based on the wait crying and uncomfortable, suddenly feel- mounting medical bills. You might make list,” she said. ing normal (even if sleep-deprived) is an enough income to be ineligible for WIC But “the one thing every parent needs, amazing feeling. Then we helped her get and other government programs, but you no matter the age or gender or season, is Elecare after that and it was such a great make too little to make ends meet. diapers. We are currently spending more feeling. I wish the donors could see what Avi and Ginnine Fried of Teaneck were than $1,500 per month on these type of we see,” said Fried. recipients of the Teaneck Baby Gemach expenses, and we have recipients on our The Frieds are happy to have part- when, in dire straits fi nancially, they had list that only need diapers and the like, nered with Michal Jacob of Teaneck, their twins four years ago. Now they are having received everything else from who volunteers as equipment coordina- Ginnine and Avi Fried, with their twins. now paying it forward, having taken over the friends, family, neighbors and others,” tor, and with Annette Prager of Bergen- four years old. day-to-day operations of the gemach in said Avi. Ginnine described the heart- fi eld, who organizes the clothing distri- 2011. The gemach operates under the aus- break she feels when families try to save bution, offering drop offs and pickups. are also very high on the list. These are pices of Congregation Ahavat Shalom, money by either using fewer diapers, or “The clothing operation is immense but items that don’t seem to survive more known in Teaneck as “the apartments by buying the more absorbent nighttime very important because it saves our fami- than one child. We get so many orphan minyan,” which was the spiritual home diapers and changing them less often. Di- lies hundreds, if not over a thousand dol- socks!” Fried said. of Rachel Fleisher (now of Elizabeth, NJ), aper rash and unhappy babies are most lars per year,” said Ginnine. The clothing Supplies and funding permitting, the who started it in memory of her mother often the result. also runs on a request basis, without a Frieds said the gemach tries to extend its in 2008. The Frieds attend Congregation Individuals must only be Jews living central storage location, and she encour- work beyond Bergen County when nec- Arzei Darom and live in the Holy Name in Bergen County to benefi t from the ages families to take as many “sizes up” essary. Hospital neighborhood, but the gemach gemach’s services, and Fried indicated so that they can to plan for the future, “The gemach has been wonderful still operates where it began. that all of the gemach distributions are she added. for our marriage, because we are doing Both Frieds work “super full-time”: Avi operated on a confi dential basis. Deliver- Other items the Teaneck Baby chesed together. Our kids know that we as a web sales manager at Culinary Depot ies can also be made anonymously if nec- Gemach is in most need of is unexpired are giving to the ‘babies’ that need help. and Ginnine as an attorney and part-time essary. (less than fi ve years old) car seats and non- What a valuable lesson!” kids’ Zumba instructor. Ginnine operates In addition to buying diapers, a stand- drop side cribs. “Because safety is impor- “We would like to personally thank the day-to-day activities of the extremely out accomplishment of the gemach is tant to us, we cannot pass along expired the rabbi and board members of Con- busy gemach with “many moving parts” the ability to provide expensive, special- seats, and because drop-side cribs were gregation Ahavat Shalom for their help, primarily on her smartphone, manag- ty baby formulas to those who truly need very popular prior to 2009, when they their guidance, and their allowing us to ing 50+ requests a month. She also coor- it. “I collect cans off eBay at a discount were banned for sale in the U.S., we get continue operations under their ‘umbrel- dinates Amazon shipments of diapers to and provide them when we have fund- few donations of cribs that are consid- la’ when we took over the gemach from approximately 20 gemach recipients eve- ing. One story that sticks out in my mind ered safe,” she said. “To raise more mon- Rachel Fleischer. Without the help of the ry other month, with an extra box of dia- is the woman whose child had a severe ey, we also have a fl eet of portacribs to shul and their rabbi/board, we would not pers per child around every yom tov. gastrointestinal problem,” said Ginnine. lend out, and then when people return be able to do the job we do, and many Avi is “the fi nancial planning arm “She was trying all these different spe- them, we ask for a voluntary donation of members of our local community would of the gemach, handling the fundrais- cialty formulas and none of them were $18 or $36, and that’s a box of diapers for go without many basic necessities we ing, collecting the pushka money, shop- working. Because each can she tried was someone,” Fried said. tend to take for granted as parents,” said ping the best deals for diapers and sup- around $35, she was really hurting fi nan- The gemach also said toddler cloth- the Frieds. plies, and working hand-in-hand with cially. She was reluctant to even try Ele- ing is in very high demand and they To provide a much-appreciated tax-de- the members of Ahavat Shalom, as well care because it’s so expensive ($65/can). never have enough. “We accept cloth- ductible monetary donation or to donate as the local rabbis and shul boards of the But it just so happened that the month ing up to 5T. Older kids are rougher on to or request items from the Teaneck RCBC to ensure the ongoing presence prior someone donated some cans of Ele- their clothes, and so there are fewer do- Baby Gemach, visit http://www.teaneck- and success of the gemach,” he said. care. I have never gotten it in before or nations in this age range that are of ex- babygemach.org, or email the Frieds at The gemach has expanded considera- since. So I encouraged her to just try the cellent quality. Socks and warm pajamas [email protected]. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 53 CHESED Horses, Therapy and You By Elizabeth Kratz Pony Power also works with at-risk teens and children exposed to domestic vio- ahwah—The power to physically lence, young adults in recovery, medical- Mhelp and relax those with profound ly fragile individuals and veterans living physical disabilities is something that with post-traumatic stress disorder. not many people have, but horses cer- Their programs are designed to pro- tainly do. Many studies have shown that vide physical, social and emotional ben- therapeutic horseback riding and oth- efi ts. Physically riding helps participants er interactive equine-assisted activities to strengthen and develop their muscles, have the power to do just that. as well as to improve balance and mo- Nancy Neff, who moved to Teaneck tor control. On an emotional level, Pony from New Rochelle, NY, seven years ago Power programs help each rider devel- with her husband and four children, dis- op a sense of responsibility and respect covered Pony Power a year later when for an animal, learn problem-solving she was helping her son, Philip, now 19, skills and develop an increased ability fi nd a chesed project as he approached to focus. The experiential ground activ- his bar mitzvah. ities with the horses help participants “My son wasn’t able to volunteer dur- develop self-awareness, identify areas of ing the school year, but he did volunteer challenge and make positive behavioral for their camp experience which opened changes. his eyes to the possibilities of this kind Neff’s experience at Pony Power has of volunteering, so much so that he went been tremendously rewarding. “I have on to volunteer for other organizations, seen children with profound physical including working at Camp HASC,” she disabilities, who had to have their bod- said. “I decided to become a volunteer at ies bent to sit on the horse sideways, re- Pony Power, since I had been a rider as lax enough after one or two rides around a teen, have a great affi nity for animals the ring to be able to straddle the horse. I and was looking to fi nd a volunteer op- have seen non-verbal children and adults portunity in my new neighborhood. Al- so excited to be riding the horse that they though I had volunteered for many dif- communicate with us to make the horse ferent types of organizations, I had no ‘walk on.’ I never tire at the sight of these background working with people with kids, with smiles from ear to ear, using disabilities, nor had I done anything so their bodies in ways they rarely can, and ‘hands on,’” Neff said. loving every minute,” Neff said. Nancy Neff , right, acting as “lead walker,” leads a horse with a rider at Pony Power. Located in Mahwah, NJ, Pony Pow- Several young people from Bergen er Therapies is a non-profi t organization County have chosen Pony Power for Volunteers must be at least 14 years ponypowernj.org using interactive experiences with hors- their bar/bat mitzvah projects. After com- old, attend a mandatory training session There are opportunities to sponsor es to improve the lives of special needs ing to the farm and learning about the and commit to at least 20 hours over the riders, horses, school groups, honorari- and at-risk children and adults. Pony programs, they have helped to raise need- course of a semester. Volunteers can be um and memorial giving options, as well Power provides therapeutic horseback ed funds. Some students from Ma’ayanot “side walkers” for riders, or, if they have as customized corporate partnerships. riding and equine-assisted activities to have done their senior work project at horse experience, “lead walkers” for hors- Details for each option can be found at children and adults facing a diverse ar- Pony Power, and there are committed es. There are also opportunities for teens www.ponypowernj.org. The person to ray of challenges, including individuals Jewish volunteers from Teaneck, Fair to volunteer in the summers in the camp speak with regarding donation opportu- with learning disabilities, autism spec- Lawn, Englewood and beyond. But Pony program. Interested individuals should nities is Lauren Cotton, Director of De- trum disorder, cerebral palsy and devel- Power is always looking for volunteers contact Jen Caffrey, Pony Power’s Volun- velopment at 201-934-1001 or Lauren@po- opmental, speech and language delays. and donors. teer Coordinator, at 201-934-1001 or jen@ nypowernj.org. The Survivor Mitzvah Project: How It All Began.... By Zane Buzby lects, fi nding elderly survivors of the red with blood.” “The earth moaned for come years. Letters arrive by the hun- Holocaust, ill and alone and in urgent days in the mass graves.” dreds. Connections deepen, friendships leave the sound-stage in a limousine need of help. “The last of the Mohi- Memories so vivid, it is hard to im- are forged. We become closer. More Iheaded for LAX. I am on hiatus, a break cans,” he calls them. Would I visit? agine it is over 70 years after the start of trips overseas discover more survivors from directing sitcoms. I fl y to Eastern I hand the driver my list. We journey The War. And now they were still suf- in need. I create The Survivor Mitz- Europe. My crew fl ies to Maui. They through the Holocaust as we travel the fering, isolated, ill, forgotten—lacking vah Project. Every day, the list of survi- ride the waves in the Pacifi c. I ride a same streets, cross the same rivers, pass food, heat and medicine. It is as if The vors in need multiplies, and now over horse-drawn hay-cart in Belarus, search- the same forests where thousands hid War had never really ended. 2000 people have been identifi ed in ing for villages where, a century ago, and were murdered. I knock on doors. I never imagined this was going on. eight countries. And the list continues my grandparents were born. The huts are empty. Out back, survivors Weren’t all survivors cared for? Weren’t to grow. The Belorussian driver speaks no in their eighties and nineties struggle there Jewish organizations set up just Are there enough people here who English. I speak no Russian. I look to dig up potatoes before the ground to help them? Could so many people will help? I think so. We can mobilize around. I am back in time 100 years— freezes. They need a winter food sup- have fallen through the cracks of the as- to bring kindness and compassion. Join no cars, no restaurants, bullet holes eve- ply. sistance net? It would be years of prob- us. They are the last generation of Holo- rywhere, entire villages empty, aban- I’m invited into their huts. I hear ing before I learned the answer to that caust survivors and we are the last gen- doned, rotting away. their stories—fi ghting as partisans in last question was, “Yes.” eration who can help. The driver pulls the reigns, stops his the forests, hiding underground, fl ee- I return home, to the world of di- We need everyone to know about horse, points to me, and yells, “Billy ing the killing fi elds, families massa- recting sitcoms; one foot in comedy, this, to get involved. Tell your friends, Crystal.” I have no idea why. He smiles. cred, escaping the Einsatzgruppen— one foot in the Holocaust. Compelled tell your family. Everyone can save just I smile. He laughs. I laugh. The horse the mechanized mobile killing squads to help, I start sending money. Then one life. Together we can write a more laughs. We continue on. who roared into towns on motorcycles, letters. Survivors write back. Litanies hopeful fi nal chapter to the Holocaust, And so begins 10 days that change killing by the hundreds of thousands of heartbreak and hopelessness. The one of friendship, love and kindness. my life forever. every Jewish man, woman and child scope of the Holocaust unfolds in ways I went looking for my family and I carry a list in my pocket; eight in their path in the most brutal ways, I never imagined. discovered instead a family of stran- names from Professor Dovid Katz, a then torching their villages and moving I step up my efforts to help. More gers. They’re out there waiting. Yiddish scholar in Lithuania, who had on to the next town, the next massacre. expeditions overseas, to fi nd more They’re your family too. To donate, traveled across Belarus studying dia- Over and over I hear, “The rivers ran survivors. Weeks become months, be- visit: www.survivormitzvah.org 54 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM Tomo y... rro da w o A T e C p h i o l H d Mourns the passing of TED MIRKHANI Avraham ben Idris Itka, z”l e{GYY l9C* *&GdC** d*VlbbdG¦ţ ĜƋĘĘå±ųƋŸĀĬĬåÚƵĜƋĘŸƼĵޱƋĘƼ BONEI OLAM ŅĹÆåʱĬüŅüƋĘåĜųĵ±ĹƼÆåĹåĀÏĜ±ųĜåŸåƻƋåĹÚ ƋĘåĜųÚååŞåŸƋÏŅĹÚŅĬåĹÏåŸƋŅĘĜŸƵĜüå MRS. SHIRA MIRKHANI ±ĹÚĘĜŸü±ĵĜĬƼţ a±ƼƋĘåƼƋ±ĩåÏŅĵüŅųƋĜĹĩĹŅƵĜĹčĘåʱŸčųå±ƋDŽåÏĘƚŸĜĵ ±ĹÚƵĜĬĬÏŅĹƋĜĹƚåƋŅųå±ŞƋųåĵåĹÚŅƚŸĹ±ÏʱŸüųŅĵ±ÆŅƴåţ a±Ƽ B±ŸĘåĵ ¥ĜŸÆ±ų±ÏĘ ƵĜŞå ±Ƶ±Ƽ ƋĘåĜų Ƌå±ųŸ ±ĹÚ ÏŅĹŸŅĬå ƋĘå ü±ĵĜĬƼ ŅĹ ƋĘå ųåÏåĹƋ ĬŅŸŸ Ņü ƋĘåĜų ųåƴåųåÚĘƚŸÆ±ĹÚ±ĹÚü±ƋĘåųرĹÚĵ±ƼƋĘåü±ĵĜĬƼĩĹŅƵŅĹĬƼ ŸĜĵÏĘŅŸ±ĹÚűÏʱŸčŅĜĹčüŅųƵ±ųÚţ ZUjQ][jP]W`Y]Ug^T ]Y\iUhYU_UYfY\YQPhPi 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 55 SCHOOLS Israeli and Bergen Educators Share Hot Button Issues By Bracha Schwartz Can you imagine how great that would be?” he delegation of school principals vis- I joined the principals on a few of Titing from Nahariya earlier this month their visits. At Teaneck High, the princi- listened intently as Englewood Assem- pals viewed the Holocaust Center, estab- blywoman Valerie Huttle described legis- lished fi ve years ago for the benefi t of lation she sponsored to combat bullying the school and community. The Director, in schools. “We have the same problems,” math teacher Goldie Minkowitz, showed said an excited Ilan Vaknin, Principal of her visitors creative projects done by stu- Sch’chakim High School and Chair of the dents, including a wall sized mural, and Nahariya Education Task Force. “This is took them to the library which houses al- great that we are addressing the same is- most 1,000 books on the Holocaust, do- sues. Let’s send each other our programs nated by Jeanette Friedman (JLBC editor) to see what works.” and Philip Sieradski, in honor of their par- Moments like this are at the heart ents who are Holocaust survivors, and the of the Jewish Federation’s Partnership Ores family, in memory of their husband 2Gether Program, in which Federations and father, Dr. Richard Ores, a survivor across the country twin with communi- Goldie Minkowitz, Director of Teaneck High Holocaust Center, addressing delegation of who passed away in 2011. “It was very ex- ties in Israel to share ideas and, most im- principals from Nahariya citing to see the center in Teaneck High,” portant of all, share each other’s lives. Haddad said. “There are no such centers in Over the past 10 years, The Jewish Fed- the public schools. “We want to reach out For Kapoano, a highlight of the week schools in Israel because our students go eration of Northern New Jersey (JFNNJ) to the Jewish students in public school was meeting Eric Sheninger, principal of to Holocaust museums, study the theme and its twin city, Nahariya, have estab- who are not exposed to the Jewish world New Milford High School, who has devel- each year and commemorate the memori- lished relationships with educators, art- and Israel,” she explained. “Every school oped a national reputation for champion- als all the time.” ists, physicians and lawyers, among oth- has Jewish potential and future leaders.” ing the use of social media in education. The group visited the Steuben House, er groups, from both communities. The In Israel, Jewish education is built into In an interview after the visit, Kapoano a colonial era homestead in River Edge education partnership, directed by Phyl- the educational system. The state schools told me that Sheninger said he fi nally real- that is now a historical museum, where lis Miller and chaired by Barbara Gonon- are Secular (Mamlachti), Religious (Mam- ized that instead of fi ghting the students’ the curator told the surprised visitors that sky, former head of the Frisch School He- lachti Dati), Independent Haredi (Chi- attachment to cell phones, he could uti- Jews fl eeing the Inquisition were a signifi - brew Department, twins Naharyia and nuch Atzmai) and Arab with some inte- lize it. For example, he could teach a les- cant minority in colonial New Jersey. And North Jersey classes where students work grated Jewish/Arab schools. This year’s son and ask the class, ‘who agrees?’ Then they visited Englewood City Hall, where on joint projects, sometimes with live delegation included principals from both he could send a survey through the phone Huttle introduced them to state politics. Skype get-togethers. Additionally, Miller secular and religious schools. They visit- and have them respond immediately. After a spirited discussion about anti- selects New Jersey teachers for an annu- ed Frisch High School, Solomon Schect- “The Israeli principals were skeptical at bullying solutions, Huttle described legis- al visit to Nahariya. Her counterpart in Is- er, Yavneh, Yeshiva of North Jersey, Ber- fi rst, they couldn’t believe it works,” Kapo- lation she is trying to pass allowing private rael, Mercedes Hadad, Coordinator of the gen High School of Jewish Studies, Glen ano said. “But at the end of the discussion schools to get state funding for therapies Nahariya Education Task Force and eng- Rock Jewish Center, New Milford High they were exchanging business cards.” His and special education. She explained that lish teacher in Ulpana High School, se- and Teaneck High. A planned visit to Mo- enthusiasm rose higher as he related the the Assembly is based in Trenton and lects the educators who visit New Jersey. riah was snowed out. following conversation from that meet- that’s where laws are introduced and vot- “We both see things we can implement The principals were more than tour- ing: “We talked about a global partnership ed on. “Maybe you can come to Trenton, from these visits,” said Miller. “It’s people ists; they interacted with students at each with Israeli and American public and re- next time,” Huttle offered. Miller and Ka- to people; we form relationships.” of the schools. At Frisch, Hadad taught a ligious schools thinking about how best panoa smiled. Something to think about The Partnership is under the umbrella Hebrew class, and in an email discussion to integrate technology into the class- for next year’s agenda. of JFNNJ’s Center for Israel Engagement, after the visit, said “the students speak room and exchanging best practices. To For more information about Partner- headed by Liran Kapoano. “The Partner- very good Hebrew.” She was also im- my knowledge, this has never happened ship 2Gether or Jewish Federation pro- ship brings together people from differ- pressed by the widespread use of iPads. before—anywhere—and here we are talk- jects in Israel, please contact Liran Kapo- ent facets of Jewish life in support of Is- “This technology is very well known in Is- ing about launching it in Bergen County. ano at 201-820-3909 or [email protected]. rael,” Kapanoa said. “There really aren’t rael, but we don’t have it in the schools. enough opportunities for us to dialogue, This is very innovative for us,” she said. but Israel is a uniting force. With the ed- At Yavneh, the group was entertained Yeshivat Noam: Health Week ucation partnership, we’re giving thou- by a special choir performance and en- sands of kids a real picture of American joyed singing along. Afterwards, the prin- eggie Faces, Zumba classes, Bracha Bee, Soup Making, Dips Tasting, Vegetable and Israeli Jewish life.” cipals addressed the students. “Rabbi VGaming... Welcome to Health Week. Under the leadership of parent volunteers, The Nahariya group’s core agenda on Penn said he was very impressed with the Rena Zelig, MS,RDN who is a nutritionist and Ariela Herman, who is a Professor of their visits here is to see Jewish education way Nahariya welcomed the New Jersey Physical Education at Queens College, Yeshivat Noam hosted a week full of pro- in action, make connections, and get ide- teachers and he wanted to do the same grams and workshops about healthy eating. As co-chairs of the Health committee, as to bring back home. Hadad said an ad- for the Nahariya visitors,” Hadad com- which is part of the Parent-School Partnership, Rena and Ariela and a team of ded- ditional goal this year was to reach out to mented. icated parent volunteers spent endless hours preparing and implementing interac- tive programs for students from Buds through 8th grade! 56 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 57 SCHOOLS YU Receives $100K Grant to Teach Begin’s Legacy ew York—Yeshiva University (www. believable. He was a great statesman, al- camps and his personal relationship “That involves educating students Nyu.edu) recently announced that its ways yearning for peace,” said Hasten, with Begin. and the wider Jewish community. What I Zahava and Moshael Straus Center for who along with his wife, Simona, were “To celebrate the centennial, we want to do is expose is his philosophical Torah and Western Thought received a close friends of Begin for 25 years. wanted to do something special,” added vision, his intellectual vision and his reli- $100,000 grant from the Menachem Be- “He took everything he did very seri- Hasten, who dedicates much of his time gious vision and what that can teach us gin Heritage Center in Jerusalem to spon- ously, but looked at himself with great and resources to supporting Jewish caus- as religious Zionists and Jews in today’s sor a series of programs on Zionism and humility. He was the complete intellec- es and spreading Begin’s message of Zi- world. That’s what I believe would truly the Begin Legacy in honor of the former tual, but by the same token he was very onism around the world. honor Menachem Begin.” prime minister’s 100th birthday, which unassuming. There have been some After meeting Rabbi Dr. Meir Solovei- The Straus Center has a host of activi- was commemorated in August. outstanding Israeli leaders, but no one chik, director of the Straus Center, Has- ties planned for the upcoming year, with Hart Hasten, president of U.S. Friends comes close to his talent for leadership.” ten felt that he would be the best person guest speakers including Yehuda Avner, of the Menachem Begin Heritage Foun- A Holocaust survivor who arrived to lead the project. Rabbi Soloveichik author of The Prime Ministers, and Dr. dation, was instrumental in securing the penniless to the United States, Hasten himself feels an emotional connection Daniel Gordis, author of a new biogra- grant for YU. Phil Rosen, vice chairman rose to the top levels of fi nance and in- to Begin, with a shared heritage of both phy on Menachem Begin to be published of the Yeshiva College Board, and Has- dustry and today is a successful busi- their families originating from the com- in the spring of 2014. Rabbi Soloveichik ten’s son Bernard, a member of the Yeshi- nessman, Jewish leader and philanthro- munity of Brest-Litovsk, or Brisk. is leading a RIETS seminar this semester va College Board, also played signifi cant pist, residing in Indianapolis, Indiana. In “I realized that to truly honor him, we and will teach an undergraduate course roles. 2002, Hasten authored a memoir, I Shall needed to somehow demonstrate to peo- on Begin and Zionism in the spring. A “Menachem Begin became my hero Not Die, an account of his escape and res- ple what Begin’s vision was and how that day-long academic conference and a pub- and my mentor, a role model and an cue from Nazi-occupied Poland, his form- vision was manifested in different parts lished volume of essays is in the works icon. His honesty and integrity were un- ative years in Europe’s displaced persons of his life,” said Rabbi Soloveichik. as well. MTA Celebrates 25 Years of Great Debates ew York—When Harriet Levitt be- nament, or “Great Debate,” the League made it not just a great educational ex- puts you in a different mindset than if Ngan teaching English at Yeshiva Uni- has made an impact on hundreds of perience, but a great social experience you’re simply wearing school clothes.” versity High School for Boys (YUHSB)/ students and alumni—particularly at as well. I stayed in touch with her over They also must know arguments for The Marsha Stern Talmudical Acade- YUHSB, where participation on the de- the years and she’s been a key mentor.” both sides of every issue they debate, my in 1982, she saw a tremendous op- bate team is, for many, a highlight of For Yehoshua Levine, ’99 YUHS, that no matter how strongly they agree or portunity to enrich her students’ ed- their high school careers. atmosphere of camaraderie helped disagree with one in particular. ucation through a competitive sport “I remember being pretty nervous at him feel connected not only to oth- “I tell them it will help them to that had long been her passion: debate. the beginning of my fi rst debate, then a er debaters on his team, but to mem- know the opposition’s arguments and Having loved her own experience as a couple minutes in feeling thrilled and bers of different classes and even dif- better equip them to respond,” Lev- high school and college debater, Lev- energized,” said Moshe Spinowitz ’97 ferent schools in the League. “Debate itt said. “When I give students a topic itt wanted YUHSB students to be able YUHS, who joined the team as a fresh- helped us cross class and school lines,” they learn every possible fact about it, to participate in the National Forensic man and found himself hooked right he said, recalling Levitt’s policy of hav- becoming mini-experts who are able to League. But there was a problem: The away. He enjoyed debate so much that ing senior debaters coach freshmen. Af- speak fl uently, write about, and rely on League’s debates all took place on Sat- it played a role in his eventual decision ter graduating from Harvard Medical their knowledge of the subject. They urdays. to pursue Harvard Law School and a le- School, Levine now fi nds that he draws come out of the experience asking Undeterred, Levitt began recruit- gal career. Spinowitz went on to clerk on the communication tools he honed good questions based on the facts and ing thoughtful judges and organizing for United States Supreme Court Jus- in the League regularly as a practicing with really considered, in-depth con- debates between YUHSB and its sister tice Antonin Scalia before becoming an cardiologist. “Medicine calls for a lot of clusions.” school, the Samuel H. Wang Yeshiva associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Mea- quick decision-making, critical think- Shani Pollak joined the debate team University High School for Girls (Cen- gher & Flom, LLP. ing and multidisciplinary communica- at Central as a freshman because she tral). Levitt and her husband Dan, also “I loved learning how to focus on tion and interactions as you navigate saw it as a great way to enhance her a college debater, began inviting other the key issues that are likely to per- the health care system, and those are public speaking skills. “I have been schools in the tri-state area and before suade your audience, whether that’s a all things I learned in debate,” he said. on the team for all four years of high long, local high schools and yeshivas judge presiding over a debate, a judge That Levine and Spinowitz are still school and was lucky enough to be cho- were calling them, asking to get in- presiding over a court, or even the op- using their debate skills in two very dif- sen as one of the captains,” she said. “I volved. In 1988, Levitt and her husband position, all while developing rational ferent but similarly high-powered ca- know I’ll walk away from debate with drafted a policy statement and formal- arguments and presenting them effec- reers more than 15 years later is no ac- the ability to communicate effective- ized the fi rst Yeshiva Debate League. tively,” Spinowitz said, noting that all cident—Levitt has always coached her ly, research rigorously and think criti- Now made up of close to 20 local of those skills prove critical to him on a students with an eye toward the fu- cally.” yeshivas and high schools and cele- daily basis in law. “Mrs. Levitt also real- ture. Her debaters must wear a jacket Levitt agreed. “All of this is training brating the 25th anniversary of its An- ly helped build a strong atmosphere of and tie to every meet, no exceptions. for the mind that can’t happen in any nual Cross-Examination Debate Tour- camaraderie among the debaters that “You are what you wear,” she said. “It other way than debate,” she said. 58 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM SCHOOLS Bringing in the Clowns By Heather Hagler, MSEd he Gemorah in Taanis (22a) tells Tthe story of an encounter be- tween Rabbi Berokah and Eliyahu Hanavi. While walking in the mar- ketplace, Rabbi Berokah asked Eli- yahu Hanavi if anyone in this mar- ketplace deserves entry into Olam Haba. Eliyahu Hanavi pointed out Yavneh Gets Middle State Accreditation two men who were worthy. In- trigued, Rabbi Berokah approached aramus—Yavneh Academy The entire Yavneh community, the the men to fi nd out what their se- Pwas granted accreditation by the faculty, staff and administration as cret was. He asked them, “What is prestigious Middle States Association of well as the students, parents and Board your work?” They answered, “We Colleges and Schools at its recent meet- members, collaborated on the unique are jesters…whenever we see people ing in Philadelphia. In its summary re- protocol, Designing Our Future. The ac- who are sad, we entertain them and port, Middle States noted that Yavneh creditation process resulted in an ex- cheer them up.” Clowns” this week. This program is co- met or exceeded each of Middle States’ In this spirit, the 7th grade girls at ordinated by the Department of Psycho- 12 standards. CONTINUED ON P. 65 the Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North Jer- sey (RYNJ) transformed into “Mitzvah CONTINUED ON P. 65 Der Pintele Yid By Ezra Weinberger zra Weinberge is a June 2013 graduate Eof The Frisch School who is learning at Yeshivat Lev HaTorah this year. Ezra made this speech to his fellow students as they were about to enter Auschwitz Concentration Camp on their Heritage trip to Poland: On the fi rst Shabbat of yeshiva, I was introduced to the idea that within every neshama (soul) resides one funda- mental aspect that forges and fuels the inextinguishable spiritual drive of the Jew. This unwavering quality of faith is known as the “Pintele Yid”—the eternal spark of the Jew. Through the tides of time, the survival of the Jews as both !DVANCE 9OUR *EWISH ,EARNING a nation and as a people has been test- ed in ways beyond human comprehen- AND 0ROFESSIONAL !SPIRATIONS sion. This reality could not be any more self-evident than the dark days of the Holocaust. The only time my grandfather ever spoke about his experience during the From Left to Right: Rivka Schiller, B.A. with Honors, University of Chicago; M.A. with Honors, Touro Graduate Holocaust, was during the Passover Sed- School of Jewish Studies. Frederika Lorie, B.A. with Honors, Cambridge University (UK); M.A. with Honors, Touro er. We were up to “We were slaves…”, Graduate School of Jewish Studies when my grandfather said in Hungari- an, “At times, it appears that even mir- acles can occur in hell.” The table fell silent, as we gained a small glimpse EARN YOUR MASTER OF ARTS DEGREE IN into the true power of the Pintele Yid through the following story. JEWISH STUDIES AT TOURO COLLEGE During the War, my grandfather car- ried with him a family picture along with s /UTSTANDING FACULTY his bar mitzvah tefi llin at all times in his shoe. While on a death march, the Nazis s &ULL TIME OR PART TIME STUDY AVAILABLE ordered my grandfather to take off his s !FTERNOON AND EVENING CLASSES shoes and discovered his tefi llin. After s 3EMINAR STYLE CLASSES WITH CLOSE FACULTY STUDENT INTERACTION beating my grandfather, Satan’s hench- men proceeded to throw his tefi llin into s #OURSES IN MEDIEVAL AND MODERN *EWISH HISTORY LITERATURE AND THOUGHT a pit of fi re fi lled with human corps- es. Without thinking twice, my grandfa- ther fl ung himself into the pit in order 'ENEROUS 3CHOLARSHIPS !VAILABLE to save his only and most precious pos- sessions. There he lay amongst the burn- &OR INFORMATION CONTACT 'RADUATE !DMISSIONS ing fl esh which was being consumed by #ALL EXT the fl ames of hatred. After what seemed like an eternity, my grandfather emerged %MAIL KARENRUBIN TOUROEDU TOURO COLLEGE from the pit of death with his tefi llin and WWWTOUROEDUJUDAGRAD picture both unscathed. He went on to 'RADUATE 3CHOOL explain that the picture served as a re- 4OURO #OLLEGE IS AN %QUAL /PPORTUNITY )NSTITUTION OF *EWISH 3TUDIES CONTINUED ON P. 59 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 59 SCHOOLS Finding Success in Arrowsmith Program at JEC By Bracha Schwartz functioning and brings them up to func- do have baseline expectations.” Students tioning.” are carefully tracked to assess progress. Elizabeth—By the time children with There’s a parallel in using our physi- After six years, the program has a learning disabilities come to The Arrow- cal muscles. If you have weak limbs, you track record of students who have com- smith program at the Jewish Education- can work around your limitations by, say, pleted their Arrowsmith studies. The re- al Center (JEC) in Elizabeth, they have getting someone to do your heavy lifting. sults are overwhelmingly positive. already travelled a bumpy road trying Or, you can go to the gym and do repet- Jessica Poulin, Managing Director of to fi nd the right school. “We have kids itive bicep curls, crunches and leg exten- Arrowsmith, said to protect intellectual who were not succeeding at anything, sions with progressively heavier weights, property, all the Arrowsmith schools sign no interventions were working,” said to improve your condition. Arrowsmith confi dentiality agreements, and I cannot Rabbi Eliyahu Teitz, Associate Dean of uses the same approach with learning describe the exercises in writing. “Peo- JEC, which includes the Yeshiva of Eliz- Rabbi Eliyahu Teitz, Associate Dean of JEC, disabilities. “It’s like an Olympic workout ple have tried to take our methodology abeth Elementary School, Rav Teitz Me- and Rose Kandl, Director of the Arrowsmith for your brain,” Kandl said. and open their own programs,” she ex- sivta Academy (RTMA), and Bruriah High Program at JEC Rabbi Teitz said the success of Arrow- plained. School for Girls. “Their parents were smith at JEC is largely due to fi nding Anyone who is interested in how spe- coming to me crying.” After enrolling in areas of weakness and parlayed her suc- Kandl. The summer before the program cifi c exercises improve brain function Arrowsmith, many of these children are cess into a proprietary educational pro- began she went to Toronto for training. can get a taste by visiting the Luminos- learning in a way they never dreamed gram, developed over 12 years with the She came back and reviewed all the appli- ity website (www.luminosity.com). Lu- possible. help of lawyers and consultants. She be- cations and tested the students. “It’s not minosity lets people work remotely on The Arrowsmith Program has a 35- gan independent Arrowsmith Schools in for everyone,” Rabbi Teitz said. “It’s for “a set of exercises that challenge their cog- year history, but it was new to Rabbi Tei- Canada and then began licensing the pro- students with average to above average nitive abilities. Lumonosity ‘games’ are tz when a parent brought the program gram to existing schools, fi rst in Canada intelligence. It won’t help with a severe based on a combination of common neu- to his attention six years ago. The fam- and then around the globe. There are Ar- brain injury; it’s not a magic bullet. Stu- ropsychological and cognitive tasks.” First ily had a child in the Arrowsmith pro- rowsmith programs in the U.S., New Zea- dents have to be self-motivated. If there time visitors are asked about the skills gram at the American Christian School, land and Australia. In 2012, she wrote a is oppositional defi ance, it won’t work.” they want to improve such as memory in Succasunna, New Jersey. Although the book about her journey, The Woman Who Up to 12 children at a time can be en- or attention, and then test-drive select- school was very accommodating, the par- Changed Her Brain: And Other Inspiring rolled in Arrowsmith, and generally stay ed games. If you want to proceed with a ents wanted their child to be in a Jewish Stories of Pioneering Brain Transformation. in the program three to four years. At program tailored to your abilities, or disa- environment. To learn more about neuroplasticity, JEC, each Arrowsmith student has four, bilities, you can purchase training by the “I visited the school and was in- I contacted Dr. BJ Casey, Director of the 40-minute sessions a day in addition to month, year, or lifetime. trigued, although the online scientif- Sackler Institute for Developmental Psy- a schedule of Judaic and secular stud- Poulin said Arrowsmith is consider- ic studies and data about the program chobiology at the Weill Medical College ies classes. Some children start their Ar- ing different delivery models, including were sparse,” Rabbi Teitz said. He held an of Cornell University. In an e-mail inter- rowsmith classes at 8 a.m. before the 8:30 remote access. “We’re always looking at open meeting with an Arrowsmith repre- view she wrote, “Any repetitive exercise, a.m. start of the regular school day, and ways to be more available,” she said. “Ar- sentative to gauge interest and 50 people or experience, for that matter, that alters some come after school. rowsmith is also looking at how other showed up. “I told them there were no behavior, alters the brain. The important The students do auditory, written and populations can benefi t.” They have de- guarantees, but I’d be willing to try. The thing (for addressing learning disabili- computer exercises. By design, words in veloped several adult programs, full and parents said, ‘we’re willing to jump off a ties) would be that the activity/exercises other languages are used so the student part-time, and their oldest student is cliff with you.’” target the specifi c defi cit.” concentrates on the learning pathway 82. But for now, Poulin said the current Students began coming to JEC for Ar- That is exactly what the Arrowsmith and not the content. Kandl says her role model of a school-based program with a rowsmith, which is incorporated into the program does. Arrowsmith Young iden- isn’t to teach—the students are teach- structured system of support, data collec- student’s daily schedule, from Bergen, tifi ed 19 specifi c learning dysfunctions. ing themselves. She coaches and moti- tion, and tracking progress works best. Passaic, Union, and Middlesex Counties Each prospective student is given a de- vates, and helps them develop their own She said several articles about Arrow- and from Queens and Staten Island in tailed assessment. While one or two dys- sense of self-confi dence. There are small smith will soon be published in peer re- New York. functions are normal and may respond rewards along the way, to keep the stu- viewed neuroscience journals. The program was founded by Barbara to remediation, a student with fi ve or dents on track. “We have a jar with mar- Meanwhile, at JEC, Rabbi Teitz is Arrowsmith Young, a Canadian woman more is an Arrowsmith candidate. bles. Every time someone masters some- thinking about out-of-the-box ideas to who, as a child, was so severely learning Arrowsmith uses specialized exercis- thing by going from one level to the next, bring education into the 21st century for disabled and frustrated that by the time es and computerized programs designed they put in a marble. When it’s fi lled, we all students. “Education today is an in- she was in her teens she became suicidal. to strengthen the underlying weak cog- all have lunch together.” Each student dustrial age model,” he said. “Now we are She painfully taught herself to master ba- nitive capacities that are the source of has 1½ hours of Arrowsmith homework in the technology age; we need to address sic skills, and then read a book called The the learning disabilities. “Traditional ed- daily. They hand in their homework tick- critical thinking, not crank out widgets.” Man with a Shattered World by Aleksandr ucation for students with learning disa- ets and have raffl es where one is picked He would like to bring in online cours- Luria that revolutionized her life: She rec- bilities teaches how to compensate for to be the winner of a $5 gift card for pizza es and more technology so that students ognized herself in its pages. The book led weakness, or teaches the material in a or Dunkin’ Donuts; there are also raffl es will be prepared “for the real world of her to research the concept of neuroplasti- different way,” said Rose Kandl, Direc- for schoolwork with certifi cates award- collaboration and research.” city, the ability of the brain to change. She tor of the Arrowsmith program at JEC. ed. “We applaud the children on effort,” We could all use an Olympic workout developed exercises to target her specifi c “Arrowsmith targets the areas that aren’t Kandl said. “We don’t have grades, but we for our brains. RYNJ & Ben Porat - Hour Of Code Machon Last week, all of the Ben Porat Yosef students in fi rst Hamikdash through eighth grade partic- ipated in a nationwide pro- RYNJ students had gram called “Hour of Code” the opportunity to see as part of Computer Science a 1:50 scale of the mikdash Education Week. The sec- created by Machon ond through eighth graders Hamikdash. RYNJ Stu- practiced coding by playing dents participated in a 30 various games and challeng- minute interactive pro- es on computers and iPads. gram, and hands-on build- The fi rst graders practiced ing of the model Beit Ha- their beginning coding Mikdash. Seeing really is skills by directing each oth- believing! er through short physical mazes. 60 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM SCHOOLS Children’s Author Floreva Cohen MTA Lobbies for Israel Visits Yavneh Academy ecently, ten students from Yeshi- Rva University High School for Boys hildren’s author Floreva Cohen visited The Yavneh Academy Early Childhood (MTA) visited the offi ce of New York Sen- Cclasses to read her popular book, A Hanukkiyah for Dina. The students had a ator Chuck Schumer to lobby in support chance to ask Mrs. Cohen many intuitive questions they had about how she got the of issues relating to Israel. Of particular idea for this book, whether the book is fi ction or non-fi ction, and how to go about interest were Israel’s status as a strate- having a book published. After hearing the story, the students went on to make gic ally to the United States and contin- their own chanukiyah out of potatoes, just like Dina did in the book! ued sanctions against Iran. The students, members of MTA’s Hatzioni Club, were participating in a Yeshiva University pro- gram coordinated by YU’s Israel Advoca- cy Club. Prior to their meeting with Sen- ator Schumer’s offi ce, they visited the Israeli Embassy, where they were briefed regarding Israel’s efforts in Congress. GBDS Talent Show GBDS Choir at Neiman’s The melodic voices of The Gerrard Berman Day School Choir sang out at Neiman Marcus at The Garden State Plaza on Thursday, December 12. The repertoire includ- ed “Lean on Me” by Bill Withers, “Roar” by Katy Perry and a Hebrew version of “Cups Song/When I’m Gone” by Anna Kendricks. PHOTO CREDIT: DR. MARK SIEGEL On December 3rd, second graders Logan Zur and Zachary Schoenblum of Wayne performed “Anything You Can Do I Can Do Better” to rave reviews at the Gerrard Berman Day School, Solomon Schechter’s annual Talent Show. RYNJ Jr. High Geography Bee Winner here is Lake PHOTO CREDIT: LEEOR WIESELBERG WErie? Name an African land- Yavneh Academy Welcomes locked country? Which is the hot- Nahariya Sister School test desert on our continent? What is avneh Academy welcomed teach- visit, the delegation from Nahariya visit- the longest US riv- Yers from their sister schools in Na- ed third and fourth grade classes and also er? Which famous hariya. The joint venture was formed led Yavneh Academy’s faculty Café Ivrit US river fl ows through the Partnership2Gether Educa- program. both ways, north tion Task Force of the Jewish Federation Thank you to Phyllis Miller from the and south? Which and the Nahariya Educator Delegation. Jewish Federation of Northern New Jer- two famous land- Together, the educators discuss Jewish sey who has helped to facilitate this won- marks cross the Education and Eretz Yisrael. During this derful program. USA and Canadian border? Where can you stand in the US and be in four states at the same time? In which continent would we fi nd the Galapa- gos Islands? What is the offi cial language posed questions similar to these. Con- of Brazil? Where was President Abraham gratulations to the winner, Isaac Mark- Lincoln born? Where would we fi nd the ovitz, 7B4. The fi nal question was,”The Shanghai Jewish Community? Where is islands of Madura and Bali are part of the Lubavitch world headquarters? Are which county?” The correct answer was there any Jews in the Philippines? Does Indonesia. Nice job, Isaac, and yasher it ever snow in Jerusalem? koach to all the students who studied for RYNJ’s Junior High Geography Bee and participated in this bee. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 61 LOCAL SPORTS SCENES MGBL Girls 2-3 Champions - Team FZ Collection MGBL Girls 6-7-8 Champions - Team Sunspire Healthcare MGBL James Thomas and both teams before the game MGBL Girls 768 Mvp Sara Lieberman with her MGBL girls, Kayla Lowy splits the d, credit- MGBL tri realty swishers team huddle, credit- MGBL Kids therapy girls play toug d on the coaches Noam Nahary Noam Nahary sammys bagels Reg Season MVP Ari Solomon, Director of TABC Hockey Mo MGBL Girls, everyone walks away a winner MGBL Girls Team Sammy’s Bagels Fuchs, Senior Division Regular Season MVP Akiva Wieder Daniella Rothschild and Championship MGBL Girls 4-5 Champs - Team Ice Cream on MVP Yakira Keiser after the 4-5 MGBL Girls TABC Jr Hockey MVPS Eli Blumenfeld and Grand Moshe Scharlat of Frisch Going for the Shot championship game David Gellis with Mo Fuchs Frisch Volleyball Report By Rebecca and Talya Gellis ry for Frisch. many errors. It was then down to When it came to the JV Ramaz the wire. Frisch was winning 19- he Frisch JV and Varsity volley- game, the team was all pumped— 16 when Zahavah Seidman served Tball teams had two amazing coming onto the court ready to two amazing serves and helped wins this past week. They defeated win. After going back and forth for seal the victory. both SAR and Ramaz in JV and var- a while, the JV managed to come to- The Frisch Varsity also went 2-0 sity play. gether and win the fi rst game. last week. It battled SAR from the The SAR game was tight. JV lost In the second game the JV was start and won in straight sets. the fi rst game, but then snapped losing at fi rst, but then, after a Ramaz was a different story. Teaneck 8u soccer champs into shape for the second and quick meeting with their coach, The play was intense from the be- third. Team members started off as they got back out there and made ginning and lasted through all fi ve individual players, but by the sec- a huge comeback thanks to Atara sets. Frisch really pulled together ond game they became one and Schonbrun. in the fi fth set to fi nally beat a very worked as a team. With amazing Going into the third game, JV strong Ramaz team. serves, players were able to pull members were determined to win. What a great week for the Frisch through and take home the victo- They stayed tight and didn’t make volleyball team! Send us your sport news, events, and photos! Send to [email protected] RYNJ 7b Jaguars starting 5 62 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM SPORTS Mandelbaum (’16), a second-year wrestler, new techniques that they have learned ing minute and didn’t relinquish its lead. TABC Storm displayed his skills on the mat by pin- and wrestling tough, close matches. With Ally Orgel (sophomore) and Jennif- ning his opponent. With all of the hard The Lions have high hopes for this er Gardner (senior) leading Bruriah’s de- Beats Frisch work that Naftali Horowitz (’16) has been season and plan to continue their suc- fense, numerous turnovers led to tran- putting in, it was no surprise to the team cess at this Sunday’s tournament. sition baskets. Dani Berlin (sophomore), By Meital Fuksbrumer when he won two matches that night. Nikki Bick (junior) and Daphna Beck- Shai Cohen (’14), the captain of the team, Bruriah Basketball er (senior) led the scorers. Central made ABC kicked off the wrestling season won both of his matches by pin. Another a run late in the game which Bruriah Twith a victory against Frisch. The senior and leader of the team, Yehoshua By Sara Weissman quickly quelled. 28-member team won handily with a Szafranski (’14) beat his opponent in a Bruriah (2-2) took to the road against score of 67-4. tough match. Michael Amuev (’15), the co- he Lightning fi lled its home gym Frisch in a thrilling game that came down TABC hosted a full house of specta- captain of the team and a very aggressive Tagain, this time against Central. In a to the wire. There were lead changes, fl y- tors who cheered as they watched the wrestler, dominated his opponent and game brimming with playoff-like energy, ing bodies, and fast breaks—non-stop ac- December 7 match. This marked the fi rst pinned him very quickly. Lastly, following Bruriah defeated Central 55-41 in the fi rst tion until the fi nal buzzer. With 1.8 sec- time the team has competed in TABC’s his fi fth-place fi nish in Wittenberg last meeting ever between the two teams. onds on the clock, Bruriah missed an newly completed gymnasium. year, Yaakov Kurlantzick (’16) started off It was a fast-paced game and the opportunity to tie the game and Frisch “As returning Wittenberg Champions, his season with a solid win against North Lightning used a collaborative effort held on for the 37-35 win. Ally Orgel led our team is looking great this year and Shore’s captain. Many other MTA wres- against a spry and feisty Central. Bruri- Bruriah’s offense and Penina Abramov we expect this to be the beginning of a tlers did a great job that night, using the ah took control of the game in the open- and Tovah Weiskopf led its defense. very successful season,” said TABC Head Wrestling Coach Yoni Ellman. TABC Storm earned four fi rst period pins by Robert Elsas, Orrin Kigner, Yosef Greenfi eld and Jon Dubin. “When“When Trusted Trusted Advice Advice Matters” Matters” Yeshiva University Fencing Team Hosts Alumni Team By JLBC Sports staff ore than a dozen of Yeshiva Univer- Msity’s former fencing stars were in at- tendance on Sunday December 15th, when the Ye- shiva University men’s fencing team Jason Bernath - YU Fencing Alum and Teaneck resident hosted the Maccabee Fencing Alumni at the Max Stern Athletic Center. There were intense competitive matches along with the chance for former teammates to catch up with old friends. “Rates are at historic lows! Bergen County native and YU fencing alumnus Jason Bernath told the JLBC, “I Envoy Mortgage is your local hometown lender. had an awesome time. It was a great way Call Stuart Greenbaum today to dicuss your options.” to spend a Sunday afternoon catching up with my old fencing friends. I didn’t real- ize how out of shape I am and how much StuartStuart Greenbaum Greenbaum I miss the sport!” LoanLoan Originator Originator MTA Wrestling NMLSNMLS #279221 #279221 Tops North Shore m m- 201.694.4677 - 201.694.4677 By Shai Cohen (’14) o o- 201.268.5757 - 201.268.5757 f -f 855.961.8793- 855.961.8793 n Monday, November 25, the MTA Li- Oons’ Wrestling Team opened up its season with an uplifting victory. With 1717 Arcadian Arcadian Way Way Suite Suite 104 104 quite a few promising rookies and expe- Paramus,Paramus NJ, N07652J 07652 rienced veterans, the Lions defeated the North Shore Stars 48-27. Envoy Mortgage, Ltd. NMLS #6666. All applications are subject to credit approval. Program terms and conditions are subject to change without First-year wrestler Eli Szafranski (’17) notice. Some products may not be available in all states. Other restrictions and limitations may apply. This is not a commitment to led. won both of his matches by pin, an im- pressive feat for a freshman. Shimmy 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 63 SPORTS JLBC Yasher Koach of the Week–James Thomas ergen County residents know the Sunday, he slips into his zebra striped Team Camp Lavi Coach Nechama BMitch Gross Basketball League (MGBL) shirt and becomes a larger than life fi g- Konigsberg pointed out that “James is a is a fun, competitive experience. It is a ure. He always has a smile on his face and referee and coach at the same time. He league where boys and girls have the op- is eager to encourage every kid to do the would stop the game to point out to the portunity to develop their basketball skills best he can. MGBL Executive girls how to handle different situations.” while learning the value of teamwork and Moshe Zwebner summed it up best: Alon Stemple, the coach of the FZ good sportsmanship. The league is a suc- “James is a great ref and most important- Collection team, told the JLBC that James cess because of the kids and parents who ly, he is great with the kids. He is exact- has the unique ability to “keep the game volunteer their time to coach. They all ly what MGBL is about. We are lucky to moving at a comfortable pace while not are wonderful role models and teachers. have him and I hope he realizes what a wasting time on calls that would not im- One of the most special things about the great impact he has on the kids. All the pact the results of the game.” 8-year-old MGBL division is James. parents, kids and coaches love him—not The MGBL family honored Mr. Thom- James Thomas is a proud New Jersey always an easy crowd to please when as at halftime of the girl’s championship Transit employee by day; but when it’s an talking competitive 2nd grade basket- game on Sunday December 22nd with a MGBL’S Dov Elefant presenting James MGBL ball.” small token of appreciation, a plaque. Thomas with plaque TABC Jr Hockey: Another Great Season Comes to an End By Coach Mo Fuchs & Rabbi Sariel Malitzky Just 10 seconds after the game was light save to keep the game going, er, and midway through the third pe- tied, Judah Volodarsky broke the tie and however it wasn’t enough and the Pen- riod Shlomo Gellman scored a pow- he Winter ‘13 session of the TABC Jun- Kyle Dyckman sealed the victory for the guins prevailed. er play goal on a rebound to cut the Tior Hockey League came to an excit- Islanders just 25 seconds after Volodar- The championship game did not lead to 3-2. The play was set up when ing end on Saturday night December 21st. sky gave them the lead. disappoint the crowd that assembled big brother Avraham Gellman won The Junior division was won by the Is- The Senior Division game was high- at the TABC Weather Center for the the faceoff. The Penguins pressed for landers, who beat the Maple leafs 6-4. ly anticipated after both semifi nal games game. The Panthers jumped out to 2-0 the equalizer, but Panthers goalie Ben The Islanders jumped out to a 4-2 lead ended in double overtime. The Panthers lead on two rebound goals from Yehu- Zion Fiorino would not yield anoth- thanks to Playoff MVP David Gellis, who defeated the Islanders with 9.9 seconds da Saks. The Penguins cut the lead in er and the Panthers held on for the 3-2 scored three of the fi rst four goals. The left on a goal by Ari Soloman. half late in the fi rst period thanks to victory. Maple Leafs stormed back and tied the The other semifi nal saw the Penguins the hard work of Yitzy Kopstick. We thank all the parents and play- game 4-4 with just three minutes left. defeat the Maple leafs 2-1 on Shlomo The Panthers extended the lead in ers for a terrifi c season and we look 1st team All Star Zach Levy scored all 4 Gellman’s winning goal. In the fi rst the second period on a shorthanded forward to all those who have regis- goals for the Leafs, but it would not be overtime Maple leaf goalie Gilad Holz- goal by playoff MVP Ari Soloman. The tered for the fi rst session of 2014 that enough. er made an eye popping ESPN high- Penguins would not go quietly, howev- starts in Early February. SAR Sting Teaneck U8 Soccer: A Retrospective Tame the his was a fantastic season shined this season and that was Gilad, Alyse Oviedo and Ayan- rick, Aviva Pinto and Ameera Al- Tfor Teaneck Soccer. The team Everton, coached by Jon- na Chape. Together they scored Shehab. Falcons weather was great and the athan Gellis and Jerry Chappe. almost 30 goals and help lead All in all, the girls learned competition was fi erce. That With fantastic goal tending by team Everton to an undefeated a lot about the game of soc- From Sting Sports Update was very apparent with the U8 Maayan Gellis and Bina Lev- season. The mid-fi eld was held cer and obtained a great foun- Girls. Most of the games were ine, Team Everton only let up together by Yael Davis, Aliza dation for playing team sports. n December 21, in front extremely competitive and fun six goals for the entire season. Guzman,Shiri Heicklen and Ne- Here’s wishing all the boys Oof a packed homecoming was had by all. They were also the benefi ciary chema Stein. And the defense and girls that play a success- crowd, Varsity Boys Basketball There was one team that of three amazing strikers, Ilana was manned by Deborah Pat- ful 2014. defeated Flatbush 44-24 to im- prove its regular season record to 6-1. Yehuda Colton Wins Rubenstein The Sting started out on a Bruriah dominating 11-2 run, jumped out to an 11-6 lead after one Tournament All-Star Award 1 Team quarter and a 20-9 lead at the half. The Sting’s success was he MTA Lions Junior Varsity Basketball team, Report largely due in part to the teams Ta team stacked with talent but struggling, inside game. came into the Emunah Rubenstein Memorial By Ilana Markowitz In the second half, the Tournament with downwards momentum. Sting’s three-pointers were still Their fi rst game was against second-ranked he Bruriah Lightning not falling (they had zero on the DRS. MTA was outmatched and out-sized. De- Trecently traveled to day), but the inside presence of spite those odds, and the absence of their cap- Queens to play the Shalhe- center Sammy Marcus and re- tain throughout the tournament, they made it vet Sabres. lentless drives to the basket by a game worth watching because of high-scorer Shalhevet led at the starting guards Daniel Jonas and Adam Motovich. end of the fi rst quarter and Sammy Hyman were enough to The next game was played as an inter-division for a short time in the sec- help the Sting go home with a game against Heschel. Without their starting point ond quarter before Bruriah comfortable victory. guard and still missing their captain, the game was a turned up its offense and de- Hyman led the way for nail biter with MTA trying to hold the lead. Ultimate- fense. Avigayil Wiener led SAR with 17 points, Marcus ly, they came up short despite the efforts of Yehuda the offense with fast breaks fi nished with 9, and forward Colton and Adam Motovich. and sharp passes while Shay- Zach Wohlberg had 7 on the The fi nal tournament game against Hillel na Schwartz and Shayna Ro- evening. On his birthday, Shen- seemingly started off as an evenly matched con- zensweig led the defense wick led the charge on the de- test. The press, however, caught MTA off guard with numerous blocks. fensive end of the court. and until they could break it their scores suf- Bruriah outscored Shal- Nathan Haddad led the Fal- fered greatly. hevet in the third and cons with 9 points, and Buddy Leading scorers Yehuda Colton and Adam Mo- fourth quarters, winning Settzu and Meyer Mizrahi each tovich received the teams’ two All-Star awards by a score of 38-20. had 4 in the loss. because of their efforts during the tournament. Yehuda Colton Rubenstein Tournament All Star 64 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM SPORTS fair share of championship game nerves, timing of the three points was critical and on the boards from Weinstock, and Frisch Tops TABC the teams struggled to put the ball in the and its impact on the complexion of the the dagger of his clutch corner jumper basket in the fi rst half. The 17-13 score at half cannot be overstated. with less than two minutes to play put to Take Emunah/ the break was more indicative of shaky Second, sophomore Captain G Jon Frisch in the position to close out the shooting than lockdown defense, and Seidel came in for the third quarter and ’ship. When the Frisch high-scorers are Rubinstein the teams went to the locker room look- energized the whole team with his hus- looking for whom to buy a Rolex at the ing to make the necessary adjustments. tle and tenacity. Forcing several loose end of the season, Weinstock should be Tournament As the third quarter began, Frisch’s balls and turnovers, Seidel harassed the at the top of the list. trio of starting ball handlers, sophomores Storm relentlessly. His clutch layup at After a few fi nal free throws, the Tier 1 CONTINUED FROM P. 1 Noah Schechter, Andrew Langer and May- the end of the fourth quarter capped his trophy went home to Paramus. er Scharlat were all saddled with three signature effort so far this season. For TABC, Gerzsberg amazed the with help from TABC Coach Elli Orlinsky. fouls. As with all great teams though, suc- Third, starting center sophomore fans with his athleticism (and 16 The two New Jersey Division lead- cess and character derives from each of Zack Cohen, after defending and re- points), Naor (8 points) hit a big 3-ball ers squared off in what was TABC’s third the players on the roster fulfi lling their bounding hard at every turn, made a driv- in the fi rst half and anchored the front straight appearance in the Tier 1 fi nal. role—starters and substitutes alike, be- ing layup and drew a foul in the fourth line, Heideman and Kroopnick showed Frisch, undefeated to date, came in off ing ready to step in and do the job when quarter—at a time when the ball would great maturity and composure in their their emotional win over league power- called upon to keep the team afl oat. not seem to go down for anyone—push- ball handling and rebounding respec- house DRS. In Frisch’s previous game, sophomore ing Frisch out to a lead they would not tively and Smith played great D and hit Playing through some offi ciating C Gideon Benchabbat stood out as a spe- relinquish. a key 3-pointer in the second half for that, at times, befuddled players, coach- cial contributor who rose to the occasion Fourth—but hardly least—was the the Storm. es and fans alike, both teams left it all on of lifting the Cougars over the biggest contributions of sophomore F Isaac As for the Cougars, Langer, who was the court before Frisch prevailed by the team in the league, DRS. Tonight, four Weinstock. Weinstock, who took the named the Tier 1 Most Valuable Player— thinnest of margins, 44-39, over a talent- other sophomores showed they were challenge of moving from the backcourt averaging 20 points per game, including ed and tough TABC squad lead by soph- ready to step up and carry the team on to the frontcourt this season, had to be a 41 point explosion against Heschel— omores Tai Gerzsberg, Aaron Heideman, their shoulders. mentally and physically tired from bat- led Frisch with 16, Schechter had 9 before Yehoshua Naor, Shlomo Kroopnick and First, sophomore Scott (The Monsey tling the DRS big men, Perlow and Leifer, fouling out, and Scharlat added 8, includ- Gavi Smith. Microwave) drilled a 3-ball in the fi rst on Thursday night. If that were the case, ing 6-8 from the line. Faced with the traditionally unfor- half that provided the bulk of the 4-point “Stock” did not show it. TABC caught Frisch, now 8-0 (5-0 in Yeshiva league giving SAR rims and an understandably lead the Cougars enjoyed at the half. The more of the same tenacity on defense Play) takes on Hillel JV in Deal, NJ. SCHOOLS students benefi t from enhancements in teract with the elderly. The children un- stay longer even though we were already Bringing in their sense of self-effi cacy, self-esteem, derstand that they have the power and running into their own lunch time. and overall feeling of satisfaction know- ability to bring joy into someone’s life, For many of the students, this was the Clowns ing that they each have the power to and have fun while doing it. “The Mitz- their fi rst opportunity to give to others in make such a positive impact on another vah Clown experience is a wonderful this way. Many of them expressed how CONTINUED FROM P. 59 human being.” way for our talmidot to understand what wonderful this felt and how much they Preparations for this program have true chesed is all about; it fosters in them enjoyed the experience. Kayla Shatkin, a logical and Counseling Service at RYNJ, been in the works for months. The girls a sense of responsibility that members 7th grade student, said, “Wow it’s fun to which runs a variety of social skills and in the 7th grade learned how to be “Mitz- of Klal Yisrael must have for one anoth- make people smile. They are so happy to middot programs at the school. The mid- vah Clowns” and the boys will learn to er,” commented Morah Cindy Zucker, be with us.” dah of chesed has been targeted for the become “Mitzvah Magicians.” The stu- Mashigcha Ruchanit, RYNJ. We divided the girls into small 7th graders as a way for our students to dents are taught by professional “Mitz- The most exciting part is putting their groups, each with either a morah or give back to the community and truly ex- vah Clowns” or “Mitzvah Magicians” all training into action. For our 7th grade psychology staff member. While many perience the joy of giving in a meaning- the basics they need to perfect their in- girls that eagerly anticipated moment of the girls were initially reserved, this ful and interactive way. This is especially ner “clown/magic.” The trainings take came this week when we visited The small group format allowed them to important at their pivotal stage in devel- place at RYNJ by The Touch of Class/ Hebrew Home at Riverdale in Riverdale, quickly become comfortable and make opment as young Jewish adults, having Renegade Clowns (for Mitzvah Clowns), New York. The Hebrew Home is truly an conversations with the residents. It was recently joined the kehilla as bnei and and Magic Masters/Shnitzel Guys (Mitz- amazing place. They have a beautiful fa- hard to get the students to leave when it bnot mitzvot. vah Magicians). They learn how to dress, cility that provides an opportunity for us was time for us to go back to school. Ac- Dr. Jonathan Frohlich, Director of act, and, most importantly, make others to bring both our Mitzvah Clowns and cording to Rabbi Daniel Price, Head of RYNJ’s Psychology Department, com- smile and laugh. The students are also Mitzvah Magicians to visit each year. The School, at RYNJ, “Year after year, the stu- mented that “this program is truly a ‘win- given the opportunity to role play with students are always impressed by the vis- dents tell us that this is one of the many win.’ Just as the residents benefi t and members of the psychology department it. They could not believe how fast their highlights of being an RYNJ junior high are cheered up from the experience, the and their morot or rebbeim on how to in- visit went, and kept asking if we could school student.” tivities designed to meet the varied a pair of gloves, a cashmere es of worship, and black- Yavneh Gets needs of the students, the newly cod- Der Pintele scarf, a down ski jacket, and ened countless souls, they ifi ed mission and belief statements, a rabbit fur hat to boot. Yet, could never take away the Middle State the open lines of communication Yid I feel the constant chills run eternal power of the Pintele among the stakeholders, and the throughout my body. I have Yid. We stand here today not Accreditation fact that Yavneh is already address- CONTINUED FROM P. 59 spent almost fi ve days in the only as free Jews in the year ing the next step of the accredita- country, and have yet to see a 5774, but as the living testa- CONTINUED FROM P. 59 tion process, in achieving the goals minder of the past, while his single hint of a smile on an- ment to the 6 million Pintele set in Designing Our Future. tefi llin served as the manifes- yone’s face. The natives’ car- Yids who perished Al Kiddu- tensive, introspective self-study, a When the Middle States team tation of the future. Follow- icatures appear as grey and sh Hashem. After 2,000 years four day visit by a team of Middle questioned Rabbi Knapp about the ing his liberation in 1945, my lifeless as the cobble stone of exile, we are studying To- States educators, and the setting of school’s three-pronged belief state- grandfather had his tefi llin fl oor on which I stand. The rah in the Jewish homeland, detailed, but by no means exclusive, ments, he described Yavneh’s com- checked by a Sofer and they people of this land are free to for we are the offspring of goals for the future. mitment “to the academic, spiritu- were found to be kosher. My live where they please with- the Jews like my grandfather Under the guidance of the Head al and emotional development of grandfather wore them eve- out the fear of losing their who never forgot who they of School, Rabbi Jonathan Knapp, every child.” The Middle States team ry day until he passed away lives. As I stand here about were or what they stood for and the Internal Coordinator, re- noted, “We have observed the g ener- in 1999. to enter Auschwitz, I can’t in longing for a better future. tired Associate Principal Elaine We- al and Judaic curricula, and we have The winters of Poland even begin to imagine what Even as we stand in the shad- isfeld, the Yavneh community exam- also observed the academic and so- are brutal and unforgiving. I horrors my brothers and sis- ow of the valley of the death, ined every facet of the school and its cial part of the school, the scholar am currently wearing three ters endured. While the Na- I could not feel any more many programs. The Middle States and the citizen, all directed toward layers of shirts, long johns, zis may have stripped away alive, because what was once report specifi cally commends the meeting the needs of the whole sweatpants, three pairs of our homes, torn apart our the spark of the Pintele Yid is variety of courses, programs and ac- child.” thermal socks, winter boots, family’s, desecrated our plac- now a raging fi re. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 65 ARTS Packaging Life: Carol Lawrence as Sabta Edna Lights Up Handle with Care By Maxine Dovere “There’s not a wasted moment,” said Tony and Grammy nominated actress Carol Lawrence, speaking about the New York production of Handle with Care. “The characters are fun and delicious.” Lawrence is appearing as “Sabta (Grandmother) Edna” at The Westside Theater in Manhattan. She joins Char- lotte Cohn, Sheffi eld Chastian and Jon- athan Sale on the off Broadway stage to tell a tale of loves lost and new love found. JLBC spoke with star Carol Law- rence, star/director Charlotte Cohn and playwright Jason Odell Williams, the hus- band and wife team that has written, di- rected, and starred in Handle with Care soon after opening night. Jason initially created “Handle with Care” and its main character, Ayelet, as a vehicle for his wife about fi ve years ago. The play takes place December 23 and December 24 in time sequences that are non-sequential. JNS questioned Carol The play’s technique—some dialogue is ish Bubbe. “Italian families are so close all evening.” Lawrence about how the “holiday” set- presented in Hebrew with no transla- to the Jewish mishpocha, it defi es com- Carol Lawrence defi nes herself saying ting would play throughout the year. “On tion, some English dialogue is “actually” ment,” she responded. “They delve into “I am basically a ham and a clown. I love stage, time always remains the same. In Hebrew—creates both mystery and con- places where their noses should not be. performing and making people laugh the theater, we create the moment. Our nection, eliciting signifi cantly different Edna is trying to fi nd a way to make Aye- ever since I could walk and until I can’t duty as actors is to portray the author’s reactions from Hebrew and non-Hebrew let, her favorite granddaughter, smile walk. I’m doing exactly what I love doing. desires and expression. It doesn’t matter speaking audience members. again. She puts her in the middle of the I’m thrilled to be back in New York theat- what day or time of year it is.” JNS asked Lawrence how she, an Il- chaos.” er where I feel at home. It’s a very, very The audience is invited into the action linois born Italian-American, had de- Fate—or God conspiring with Edna— blessed time.” of the play, almost as a fi fth cast member. veloped the character of Edna, the Jew- bring together Josh, the Jewish grandson Charlotte Cohn is Producing Part- of Edna’s long lost Catholic fi rst love, Si- ner, married to the playwright and star mon Brook, and her Israeli granddaugh- of Handle with Care. She is the daughter ter, Ayelet. The rest is future. of a Danish Jew and a Sabra. The fami- “It’s the most romantic way of solving ly made aliyah when Charlotte was fi ve. the whole problem,” said Lawrence. As The youngest of four sisters, she grew post the simcha, a 17-year old, her character, Edna, fell in up Modern Orthodox in Rechavia. Cohn love with Simon Brook, a young Catho- served in the Israeli army for fi ve years. lic American who had come to Israel as a After she completed her service she made from the simcha!! volunteer. After they were forced to part, what was to have been a one year trip to she endured decades of a loveless mar- America that turned into a 20-year so- riage. In the denouement of her life, she journ. Her mother and two sisters live in has come to America to fi nd her long lost Rishon Le Zion; one sister lives on a reli- love and is devastated to learn he had gious kibbutz near Beit Shean. died just three months earlier. “It is a mo- Ayelet, says Cohn “is based on a fas- THE ment so poignant, so sad, a dichotomy cination with language and communica- on the stage that is very fulfi lling for me,” tion issues. The character can’t speak or OnlySimchas Lawrence said. is misunderstood.” She describes the play Lawrence dies on stage—that is, Edna, as “a marriage between the mundane and iPhone app her character, does. “Once she hears Si- the sublime, the simple and the elabo- mon has passed away, the life goes out rate.” IS FINALLY HERE. of her. Her hopefulness dies.” Refl ecting a Charlotte Cohn says Handle with Care moment, the veteran actress says “I think “is a commercial, lovable, exciting piece they are joined in heaven.” of art. It is a cross generational experi- Post photos instantly The emotional swings in Handle with ence with universal themes and com- from a celebration Care are wide. Lawrence was asked if bines art with commercial ability…Doing using your she felt the script allowed Ayelet enough both producing and acting can get over- mobile device. time to fully react to the barrage of cir- whelming - even for a former offi cer in cumstances. “It’s turmoil for her to be all the Israeli army. I have the luxury of the by herself in a country where she can’t character having been written for me. I express herself is a frustrating and tumul- have to marry my personal emotional tuous experience. By the end of the play, life and behaviors with the circumstanc- the audience is in need of a solution, a es and the other actors.” way of fi nding happiness out of all the “I love the feeling of going on stage pain.” and bringing the character - and Jason’s The Broadway veteran talked about work - to life,” says Cohn. It gives me in- GO TO the dynamics of working with Char- credible joy both as producer and as ac- lotte Cohn, the Israeli actress playing her tress.” She notes that Ayelet “is not sup- www.onlysimchas.com/app granddaughter. “Her complexity in the posed to be understood. The audience is FOR THE FREE DOWNLOAD. show is enormous. She wears many hats supposed to go through the journey of valiantly and warmly. I loved her from discovery with Josh.” (DROID APP COMING SOON...) ‘hello.’ We get along exceeding well. We “The most interesting thing to me in share very small quarters,” Lawrence not- this play is the reaction of the Hebrew ed. “The mutual encouragement goes on speakers in the audience.” 66 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM PREMIER SPORTS CAMP EXCEL AND GROW AT YOUR OWN LEVEL Sportstar Academy is designed to give a solid skills foundation to beginners and an opportunity to seriously hone and improve the skills of more advanced players. BASKETBALL, TENNIS, GOLF, MOUNTAIN BIKING Transportation will be provided to and from camp. Early Bird AUG. 18 - 22 Special We welcome $429 Steve Gutlove Early Bird Special ends Jan 3 as Director VISIT OUR WEBSITE! Price increases after Coach of RYNJ Basketball WWW.CAMPMESORAH.COM Jan 3 to $499. Team & Coof- MGBLCommissioner CALL US! (845) 362-7778 Sportstar Academy is not exclusive to Camp Mesorah campers. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 67 Happy BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Ask us about Birthday Catering Kevin “Ain’t Gonna Work on Saturday” Your Next Event Cohnen! By Abe Sussman know is that we have a car and were not in- convenienced at all. 201-833-0200 t is so hard to fi nd a good, honest mechan- We are all familiar with El Al’s policy :HVW(QJOHZRRG$YH7HDQHFN1- Iic. While most of us know nothing about that they don’t fl y on Shabbos. Years ago my The Rabbinical Council Of Bergen County RCBC car repair, we all have our personal intu- good friend Ray Parker, a non-Jewish Italian, ition and usually pick our car mechanic was in the marketing business and was at a GLATT KOSHER based on how much our car repair should meeting with the El Al executives when the cost, how long it should take, and how the suggestion to start fl ying on Shabbos came CHINESE TAKE-OUT service was. up. Without hesitation, Ray turned to the Years ago, before I started using Eli’s CEO and said, “Gentleman, God has been Auto, I felt that my mechanic would fi x one very good to El Al, why would you play with thing and break another. I have been us- that?” We Deliver Order on-Line at ing Eli’s Auto for several years to fi x my ve- There is an urban legend about the Re- hicles. From brakes to body shop work to a ichman family from Toronto about how Sun-Thurs: 11:30am-10pm www.chopstixusa.com simple oil change, I have always found the they went to one of their job sites on a Mon- Fri: 11:30am-2:30pm people there to be honest, reliable, and rea- day morning and found that their contrac- Sat: Closed (Go for Pizza!!) sonably priced. I asked them if I could bring tor had done some work and added a fl oor in my leased vehicle and if that would void to one of their buildings over Shabbos. The my warranty and was advised that in many Reichman family, realizing the work was repair and service cases, Eli’s Auto is signif- done on Shabbos, immediately demand- icantly less expensive than the dealer and, ed that all of the work that was done be re- JL JL for most repairs, using Eli’s would not void moved. Any Order 33% off any warranties. Yoram’s response to my suggestion that $4.00 On a recent car repair visit to Eli’s Auto, he have workers repairing vehicles on Shab- Scallion Pancake, Kung Fu Krunch Of I asked Yoram Katan, the owner, why he bos was along the same line. or Chicken Lettuce Wrap $25 or More doesn’t have employees fi xing cars on Sat- “I won’t work on Shabbos, I have never off with any purchase of $5 or more urday. As we know, having a car is a neces- worked on Shabbos and I will not gain any With coupon. May not be combined With coupon. May not be combined with other offers with other offers sity and some of us can’t afford to be with- benefi t from working on Shabbos,” is how Excludes parties. Expires 1-31-14 Excludes parties. Expires 1-31-14 out vehicular transportation for a minute. I he responded. Order Of JLDonna's VIP Nails JL explained to Yoram that most people drop While I admire and respect his reli- 180 West Englewood Ave,Teaneck, NJ 07666 their car off on a Friday afternoon at the gious position, I am not sure that a mechan- mechanic and pick it up fi rst thing Sun- ic these days can sustain his business in an Fried Wonton 201-833-4004 with any purchase day morning (or Monday if the mechanic is observant community without offering the FREE closed Sunday) and the car is “magically re- “Saturday magic service repair.” I guess we of $10 or more Manicure- paired” and working. We don’t ask and don’t are fortunate that he is open on Sunday. With coupon. May not be combined Pedicure Special with other offers $19.95 Excludes parties. Expires 1-31-14 Mon,Tue + Wed want to know when it was fi xed, who fi xed Eli’s Auto is located at 618 Cedar Lane, Te- expires 1-31-14 it, or if it was repaired on Shabbos. All we aneck. Its telephone number is 201-836-0455. Pd Systems 6KRS SH Locksmith Alarm, Fire, CCTV Best Locksmith in Town 201-837-8300 :HVW(QJOHZRRG 917-968-2870 Brooklyn’s Chickie`s Chubby`s Teens and Ladies Apparel French Fry & Chicken Bar Chopstix Kosher Chinese Barber For Men 203 W. Englewood Ave Tel. 201-266-6033 Tel. 201-833-0200 Tel. 201-837-6515 201-837-0203 www.chickiesonline.com www.chopstixusa.com Eli Dougie`s FillerUp Auto Service - Texaco BBQ & Grill Kosher Wines 618 Cedar Lane Tel. 201-833-6000 Tel. 201-862-1700 Tel. 201-836-0455 www.dougiesbbq.com Mirage Optica Tel. (201) 357-8750 Garb Nu Loc & Chop Shop Consulting (201) 379-9234 Tel. 201-833-4003 Rabica Restaurant Cafe Neshoma Orchestra www.garbcg.com Tel. 201-837-7558 Tel. 516-569-4949 www.rabicacafe.com www.neshomaorchestra.com Royal Sushi Metsuyan Persian Grill Tel. 201-837-8000 Tel. 201-833-1555 www.metsuyan.com Ricciardi Paint Brothers Poppy`s Bagels/TCBY Tel. 201-837-3468 Tel. 201-862-0800 www.ricciardibrothers.com The Write Impression Tuesday`s Child Plaza World Clothing Boutique Dentistry Of Goodies For all your invitation needs David Hochstein Tel. 201-357-8363 Tel. 201-833-9950 Tel. 201-833-0404 www.tuesdayschild.com 201-833-6847 Teaneck Councilman Chess Club Elie Y. Katz Glatt Express 1 free lesson [email protected] Therapy Gym Lazy Bean Café 185 Court Street, Teaneck 201-715-5179 Tel. 201- 357-0417 Tel. (201) 837-8110 201-833-1741 www.thetherapygym.com Coupon for 365 Days of Representation 68 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 69 TRAVEL Imagine Pesach at The Waldorf Astoria® ow celebrating its Fifth Year, Grand newal. From gentle and innovative fa- • Exciting Day Camp Program led by NGetaways is returning to the legend- cials to harmonizing massage therapies, seasoned and highly qualifi ed counse- ary Waldorf Astoria Orlando. Nestled it is an experience designed to transform lors and staff - including sports, games, among 482 private acres of emerald green your visit into a luxurious and personal live shows, and evening entertainment. woodlands in the heart of Walt Disney escape. • Comprehensive Teen program in- World®, your entire family can share in • Expansive Orlando Fitness Center— cluding daily outings and evening activ- the ultimate Passover experience. state-of-the-art exercise stations, tread- ities and trips. This vacation, like any other vacation mills, classes, including aerobics, Pilates, • Popular Local Orlando Attractions— from Grand Getaways, is a must for any- yoga and spinning, and instruction from Discounts to Disney World® , Universal one who has ever dreamt of blending the personal trainers. Studios®, Sea World®, The Magic King- strictest standards of kashrut with the • Refreshing Pools—three large pools dom®, Discovery Cove® , Epcot® , Disney’s most exacting demands in luxury. with poolside cabanas, plus a huge, free- Animal Kingdom® , Cirque du Soleil®, and The result of decades of experience by form pool with a winding river and wa- more. Alan Berger, one of the foremost Passover ter slide. Feeding your soul at the Scholars-in- vacation specialists in the country, Grand • Spectacular natural preserve high- Residence program will be: jamin Blech, renowned author and pro- Getaways represents the pinnacle of ser- lighted by waterways, wetlands, and • Cantor-led or private Seders availa- fessor at Yeshiva University; Rabbi Shm- vice and skill. wildlife. ble. uel Hain, Congregation Ohab Zedek in Elegance, sophistication and service Enjoy three gourmet glatt kosher • Daily lectures, panel discussions and North Riverdale; and Special Guest Rich- in the grand tradition of the Waldorf As- meals daily to delight every palate under symposia. ard Joel, President of Yeshiva University. toria® await your pleasure. From your the direction of Joey Bodner, Marty Bod- • Featured Scholar-in-Residence: Rab- The food...the service...the luxury...the fi rst glimpse of the stately lobby’s old ner and Eddie Izso of Main Event Cater- bi Kenneth Hain, Senior Rabbi, Temple experience. It’s all here. We look forward world grandeur to the splendor of 482 ers. Beth Shalom of Lawrence, NY; Rabbi Ben- to welcoming you for Passover 2014. acres of unspoiled waterways, wetlands • Tea Room buffets brimming with and woodlands--you enter a private pre- bountiful hot and cold delicacies day and serve seen by few: night. • Lavish guest rooms with Egyptian • Poolside barbeques. cotton linens, Italian marble baths, gi- • Special dietary needs accommodat- ant high-defi nition televisions and exec- ing all dietary requirements and restric- utive level butlers who cater to your eve- tions ry whim. During your ten-day stay enjoy: • Delight in The Waldorf Astoria® • Classic Golf—a tour de force of cre- Spa—a rejuvenating Orlando spa resort. ative design from master architect Rees Customized therapies, soothing envi- Jones. An 18-hole championship course ronments, and unique client-centric ap- and fi ve-tee system accommodates all proach to well-being, unify to create an playing abilities, challenging every play- elevated state of rejuvenation and re- er’s skills. 2014 Parnassah Expo Looks to Shatter Records By Shimmy Blum greet any attendee of interest, as well as host industry-specifi c structured net- sing the common phrase, “The sky working sessions. The scope of the ex- Uis the limit,” may be a major under- hibitors promises to be signifi cantly statement when it comes to the ambi- larger than even last year’s group, which tions of the Parnassah Expo, brainchild ranged from prestigious banks to mom- of the Parnassah Network and its found- and-pop ventures. Organizers expect er, Reb Duvi Honig. It was launched two the number of exhibitors to be double years ago as a local event in Lakewood. or more of last year’s 250 booths, The turnout astounded organizers, so In addition, 25,000 square feet of the event was held at the Meadowlands fl oor space will be dedicated to a job Exposition Center last year, with both fair, academic and vocational cours- exhibitors and attendees fi lling the es, career counseling and business en- 60,000-square-foot fl oor to capacity. hancement services. An adjacent 15,000- The 2014 Parnassah Expo on March square-foot Convention Center will 25th and 26th is expected to double its host seminars and workshops from key size, fi lling 150,000 square feet at the experts in a variety of business related New Jersey Convention and Exposition areas, as well as several private network- Center in Edison, New Jersey. Last year, ing areas. Parnassah Network successfully organ- With nearly a year of advance plan- ized the largest Orthodox communi- ning, every detail of the massive oper- ty event of its kind. Newcomers to the ation has been coordinated. Admission business world, startups, small busi- badges will be available in advance in nesses and established large corpora- order to minimize wait time at the en- tions alike made invaluable contacts trance. Rooms at the nearby fi ve-star and found an array of useful resources. Sheraton Hotel have been reserved In the weeks and months since the last to accommodate visitors from out of Expo, Reb Duvi Honig and Parnassah town, with a complimentary shuttle Network’s offi ce fi elded a steady stream to the Expo hall. Guidance on “How to of feedback from exhibitors and attend- Network at the Parnassah Expo” is be- ees sharing their success stories. ing compiled, to ensure the smoothest, As the positive ripple effect contin- most productive experience possible. ues, the upcoming Expo promises to Yet, with all this expansion and in- put yet more ventures—and the individ- novation, admission costs will remain uals and families they support—in pos- extremely affordable. “Parnassah Expo itive territory. The B2B Expo is where does not cater to any particular segment businesses and vendors in a cross sec- of klal Yisroel at the exclusion of oth- tion of industries will showcase their ers,” says Reb Duvi Honig. “We can only products and services, and meet-and- help some if we are ready to help all.” 70 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM SIMCHA DIRECTORY Standard Bar/Bas Mitzvah Packages include Free Photo Favor Booth or $100 Discount & Over 30 Games Jeff Wilks Orchestra & DJ's • Leibedik One Man Band/Singer • DJ w/ Dance Motivators • Projector/Screen Rentals • Wedding Bands • Laser Dance Lighting • Shabbos Ruach a capella Singers NY (212) 840-5523 NJ (732) 828-9274 The Write Impression Great Gifts for everyone Invitations, Stationery, Party Favors, Place Cards & Programs on your Chanukah lists! All books discounted! 201-677-2274 441 Cedar Lane, Teaneck www.GardenStateJewelers.com g48,&.7851$5281'7,0( [email protected] g120,1,08048$17,7,(6 21,1+286(35,17,1* g(19(/23($''5(66,1* $10 10% 67$03,1*678)),1* 0$,/,1* We Buy Gold, Silver,Platinum, g+(%5(:7<3(6(77,1* OFF Diamonds,Watches, Coins OFF 6(59,&(6 all appraisals & Sterling Flatware! any item Located at Party Plaza must be presented May not be 195 W. Englewood Avenue, Teaneck, New Jersey along with items ASK US ABOUT combined Sunday and evening hours available By appointment: Call Simone (201)833-0404 to be appraised GIFT CARDS with any other offer R Caterers, Musicians, Rachel Wigs Party Planners, We carry a full line of wigs, falls, Jewelers! yarmulke falls & hat falls. Get your ad in the affordale We do all repairs, wash & sets. When you want to look and feel your best, buy the best Jewish Link Simcha Directory. Located at Party Plaza By Appointment: Your ad will get noticed!! 195 W. Englewood Call Rachel at: 732-809-5493 Teaneck, NJ 0766 Sunday and Evening Call 201-371-3212 or [email protected] Hours Are Available Tzipi Livni: At the Tel Aviv nursing home where mourning period when visitors comfort ments of silence passed. “Is it John Ker- Livni’s mother lived, other former Irgun the bereaved, Livni learned that at the Tel ry?” I asked. “No,” she replied, “it is some- The Believer fi ghters had called her “the mother of the Aviv nursing home where she had lived one who is more important.” It was her traitor.” out her fi nal years, other former Irgun son Yuval, who is in his early 20s. He had CONTINUED FROM P. 19 I asked Livni whether she saw a par- fi ghters had called her “the mother of the messaged from a backpacking tour in allel between Netanyahu’s family back- traitor.” Peru to inform his mother of his impres- break the stalemate.” ground and her own. She thought about She recalled how, when she began to sive scores on Israel’s college-entrance FOR NETANYAHU, breaking the stale- the question for a moment, then de- speak in support of Palestinian statehood exams. “Excuse me,” she said, looking mate will require breaking with his past murred. “I don’t want to speak about oth- in the early 2000s, she would hope her down to reply. She placed the phone and—as was the case for Livni—with ers,” she said. For her, she explained, the mother wasn’t listening. But one Friday, back on the desk and regained her train his parents. Netanyahu’s father, Benzi- two-state solution was not about throw- after an interview with her was broad- of thought. “Maybe I’m trying to make on, who died last year at age 102, was a ing away the values of her parents, but cast, her mother called. “She said, ‘Listen, it easier on me by saying that I believe famous Jewish historian who inculcated reconciling them—balancing their ter- I heard you. It hurts me. But you know that what I’m doing is part of the values in his son a belief in the sanctity of the ritorial ambitions with their hopes for a something? We fought for the establish- I got from my parents,” she suggested. “I biblical land of Israel. When, in June, Ne- Jewish democratic state. ment of the state of Israel. And I see young don’t know, maybe it’s not. Maybe they tanyahu visited a West Bank settlement Not everyone, of course, saw it this people, they are leaving for America. And would completely object.” To Tzipi Livni, to dedicate a school that had been named way. In 2007 Livni’s mother died and we didn’t fi ght just to have a state for us it’s no longer relevant. “When I make de- for his father, he parried questions about was laid to rest beside her husband be- old people. So it’s your decision now.’” cisions,” she said, “I’m not thinking about whether it would be around forever. low twin gravestones bearing the Irgun At one point during our conversation, my parents. I’m thinking about my chil- “Keep trying,” he reportedly told journal- emblem of a rifl e guarding Greater Isra- Livni’s iPhone buzzed with a message. dren.” ists as he scurried into his car. el. During the shiva, the seven-day Jewish She picked it up and smiled. A few mo- The End. 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 71 ISRAEL REAL ESTATE The Forgotten Side of Beit Shemesh brant and diverse communities that provide the physical, communal and By Gedalia Borvick religious infrastructure to address the needs of its residents. nless you have been The challenging past few years have Uasleep under a rock caused me to overlook Beit Shemesh’s for the past few years, strengths, but this past Friday night re- you are probably aware minded me of the city’s uniqueness and that a few bad apples, whose extrem- its potential for greatness. My family at- ism and intolerance are against every- tended Kabbalat Shabbat services that thing that Judaism stands for, have blem- my friends Goel Jasper and MK Dov Lip- ished Bet Shemesh’s reputation. Now man run in Goel’s large back porch. I that I got that unpleasant part out of the absolutely loved the amazingly diverse way, let’s discuss what a great town Beit limits and less than an hour from Tel and other surrounding new develop- crowd of over 100 people that crammed Shemesh really is. Aviv. With trains linking Beit Shemesh ments will add 5,000 units, and RBS Da- into the backyard. The minyan was Beit Shemesh was founded in 1950, with both cities, the city is a commut- let and Heh, which are in the planning comprised of Dati Leumi people in knit- but its history goes back thousands er’s dream. In the 1990s, new neighbor- stages, are slated to add another 13,000 ted kippot, Charedim in black hats, and of years to Biblical times, where it is hoods, such as Sheinfeld, Nofei Aviv units. Why the tremendous growth? multiple sects of Chassidim bedecked prominently mentioned in the books and the fi rst communities in Ramat Beit In four words: price, location, commu- in bekeshers (long jackets) and stre- of Joshua, Samuel and Kings. In addi- Shemesh, were established and drew nity and convenience. One can buy a imels (fur hats). What a great reminder tion, it is located in close proximity to many Anglos, and these neighborhoods home for less than half the price of a that there are so many wonderful peo- where the famous battle between Da- fl ourished. At about the same time, the home in Jerusalem, and have excellent ple from all the communities of Beit vid and Goliath took place. Charedi community also discovered Beit access to most of the country’s popu- Shemesh who yearn to cast aside the sil- Beit Shemesh was a classic “develop- Shemesh, and its fi rst neighborhood, lation and business centers. In addi- liness that divides us and seek out mean- ment town” with a large segment of its Nachala U’menucha, was established. tion, the city boasts many synagogues ingful opportunities to unite us. initial population arriving from North Today, Beit Shemesh’s population offering countless Torah classes, out- Africa. Over the years, many Russians is just about 100,000 people, and is ex- standing educational institutions, nu- Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Isr ael Home and Ethiopians moved in during later pected to exceed 150,000 residents by merous retail options and medical clin- (www.myisraelhome.com), a real estate agency fo- waves of aliyah. 2020 due to the seemingly endless de- ics, plus a wonderful infrastructure of cused on helping people fr om abroad buy and sell Beit Shemesh is centrally located, velopment that is occurring in Ra- social programs and charitable organi- homes in Isr ael. To sign up for his mon thly market thirty minutes from Jerusalem’s city mat Beit Shemesh (RBS). RBS Gimmel zations. Beit Shemesh and RBS are vi- updates, contact him at [email protected]. EVENTS Underground Training Opens in Tenafl y enafl y—Underground Training is ist in women’s rowing, Meghan Ta cutting edge, 2000-square foot, Musnicki (also an Underground training studio located at 20 Chest- Training member), as well as a nut Street. In a distraction free en- weightlifting competition against vironment, Underground Training Naor Ziv, number six in the world focuses on fi tness and results by for bodybuilding. implementing scientifi c research- After working up an appetite, at- based training protocols, offering tendees were nourished by great personal training, semi-private train- tasting healthy food donated by ing and small group training. Servic- Hummus Elite in Englewood or es offered include a semi-supervised were able to snack on a variety of tiered membership program which health bars provided by Bar Neces- allows a client to progress through sity. To make it all offi cial, Tenafl y six fi tness levels that are safe and Mayor Peter Rustin performed a rib- effective. The membership client ees were challenged to different bon cutting ceremony and Rabbi is guided by the help of a certifi ed fi tness contests such as pull-ups, Shane, head of Chabad on the Pali- Yeshiva Boys trainer or through the use of special- push-ups and sled pushes. Sever- sades, blessed the facility. Members ly designed fi tness videos located al attendees attempted the rope of the Tenafl y BID, as well as the Te- Choir’s Yonatan within the facility. climb, bringing back childhood nafl y Council, were in attendance to The facility’s recent Grand memories. The fi tness highlight show their much appreciated sup- Katz Guest Stars on Opening Celebration was attend- was a 1,000 meter rowing race chal- port to owners Moshe Klyman and ed by over 200 people. Attend- lenging 2012 Olympic Gold Medal- Gerard Bochese. “JM in the AM” iver Edge—Yonatan Katz, a seventh grader at TECHNOLOGY RRYNJ and Bergenfi eld resident, joined the Yeshi- va Boys Choir 4½ years ago as its fi rst Bergen Coun- ing three dimensional solid objects ty member (since then, six Bergen County residents 3D-Printing - Part One of virtually any shape from a digital have joined). Yonatan was recently a guest on Na- model. 3D printing is achieved using chum Segal’s morning radio show, “JM in the AM.” Harold Nussbaum to make their entrance into main- an additive processes, where an ob- Nachum interviewed him about his experiences in stream reality. ject is created by laying down suc- the choir, the amount of time that goes into teach- rguably, one of the coolest scenes Jeff Dunham, an extraordinary, cessive layers of material in differ- ing the challenging choreography that accompa- Afrom any of the “Mission Impos- award winning Ventriloquist, uses a ent shapes. 3D printing is considered nies each song, and the different concerts at which sible” movies is when the character similar “machine” to create his char- distinct from traditional machining he has performed, such as in Toronto, Baltimore, of Ethan dons a disguise, a life-like acters. techniques (subtractive processes) Florida, and the tri-state area, including the HASC mask, designed by computer soft- Welcome to the world of 3D which mostly rely on the removal of concert and the Chai Lifeline Concert. ware and formed from a special ma- printing…… material by methods such as cutting Yonatan told Nachum that his best experience chine that carves out the facial im- In the next few articles, I will dis- or drilling etc. 3D printing is usually was performing live on NBC’s Morning Show two age from a blank mold by chipping cuss the good, the bad, and the ugly performed by a materials printer us- years ago on Chanukah. Yonatan commented how away at it until the facial image is of 3D printing. But fi rst here is an ing digital technology. even though a lot of time and work goes into be- created. overview of 3D printing as explained While 3D printing technology has ing in the choir, he enjoys it very much and fi nds it It is usually not long after be- from Wikipedia. been around since the 1980s, it wasn’t very rewarding. ing exposed to many technological 3D printing (also called additive marvels in movies that they seem manufacturing) is a process of mak- CONTINUED ON P. 73 72 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM EVENTS NCSY’s Yarchei Kallah Comes to Teaneck This Weekend for Shabbat By Michael Orbach as a public school student from Rochester, “The program is about taking owner- maintains, stems from the Shabbat that the New York. “It opened my eyes to how exhila- ship of your Jewish story and having kids teens spend in Teaneck. “It’s an opportuni- his week, 313 public school teenagers rating and invigorating Torah learning could develop their own expertise and their own ty for students who are mostly from unaffi l- Tfrom all over the United States and Cana- be,” he added. “It played a part in my deci- connection to specifi c areas of Jewish law, iated homes to be exposed to the vibrancy da are skipping the ski slopes and the Florida sion to invest in my Torah studies on a more thought and history,” explained Rabbi Dovid of one of the most dynamic Modern Ortho- sun. Instead, they are spending part of their serious level.” Bashevkin, NCSY’s director of education. dox communities in America,” he explained. Christmas and New Year’s vacation learn- NCSY is the international youth organ- Explained Upstate New York teen Eli- “This is the type of modern community that ing Torah as part of NCSY’s annual Yarchei ization of the Orthodox Union. During the sa Alweis, “As a public school student, it is these teens see themselves connecting to. Kallah program. To cap-off the inspirational program, teens spend Tuesday until Friday pretty rare that I get to have such focused This community balances the world of mo- week, all the participants and staff members at the Stamford Hilton learning with NCSY learning readily available…Seeing so many dernity with the values of Torah and exem- will be spending Shabbat in the welcoming staff members and educators in a variety of other teenagers engaged and interested in plifi es what it means to live in the world as Modern Orthodox community of Keter To- interactive sessions. Topics range from Jew- Judaism and expanding their knowledge, a Torah-committed Jew.” rah in Teaneck, NJ. “Yarchei Kallah is the pre- ish medical ethics to the philosophy of Rav not because they have to, rather because Rabbi Glasser has a favorite story from mier Torah learning experience for Jewish Joseph B. Soloveitchik and the development they want to, is incredible…Yarchei Kallah is his time spent working in Yarchei Kallah. public high school teens in the world,” ex- of halakha. This year’s program will be fo- the fl ame that reignites my connection and One year Yarchei Kallah coincided with plained Rabbi Micah Greenland, newly ap- cused on various failures related in Sefer Be- keeps it burning.” Chanukah and one session was devoted pointed international director of NCSY. reishit and what teens can learn from those Part of the strength of the program, New Rabbi Greenland attended the program failures. Jersey NCSY Director Rabbi Yaakov Glasser CONTINUED ON P. 79 FINANCE What is the True Cost of a “Really Bad Financial Decision?” By Elozor M. Preil ally bad fi nancial decision” (and almost net worth hinders your fi nancial poten- half, 47%, acknowledged making more tial. press release for a re- than one), four-fi fths of those surveyed • Third, the best fi nancial advice is not Aport from the Con- said they were “good” or “excellent” at the kind that squeezes more return out of sumer Federation of making fi nancial decisions? And at least your existing assets, but one that helps America announced that one fi fth of the group was so confi dent you minimize losses. This is not necessar- 67% of middle class Americans acknowl- that they wouldn’t want any outside in- ily the most eye-popping or glamorous edged making a “really bad fi nancial deci- put before making their “good” or “excel- process, but it delivers consistent, profi t- sion,” one that resulted in an average loss lent” decisions? Hmmm. able results. of $23,000. “Middle class” was defi ned as Maybe it would help to put the cost Good fi nancial counsel is not a guaran- households with an annual income be- of these really bad fi nancial decisions in tee against loss, but the research indicates tween $30,000 and $100,000. By com- better perspective. The loss that results most individuals are not as fi nancially sav- parison, 61% of upper income Americans from a bad decision is not only the im- vy as they think. Have you made a really (those with household incomes in excess mediate dollar amount, but also the op- bad fi nancial decision? Don’t make anoth- of $100,000) reported making a really bad portunity cost –what could have been cept. Although the rate of return used for er one by deciding to go it alone. One of fi nancial decision, with the resultant loss earned in the future if the money had calculation is subjective, lost money has the ancient Proverbs still rings true today: averaging $61,000. been retained. For example, suppose a re- an ongoing cost. With this in mind, some “There is wisdom in a multitude of Here are some interesting companion ally bad fi nancial decision, one that re- other observations follow: counselors.” fi ndings from the survey: While over 80% sults in a $50,000 loss, occurs at age 40. • First, in terms of impact, the most Elozor Preil is Managing Director at of the respondents rated their ability to Life expectancy for the average American costly fi nancial mistakes are the ones Wealth Advisory Group and Registered make fi nancial decisions as “good” or “ex- is now approaching 80, which means the made early in life, simply because the Representative and Financial Advisor of cellent,” the survey also found a strong fi nancial impact of this decision gener- lost opportunity cost accrues over a long- Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). He can correlation between fi nancial loss and the ates a pretty lengthy opportunity cost pe- er period of time. be reached at [email protected], absence of expert fi nancial input. In fact, riod. If a 5% annual rate of return is used, • Second, avoiding and minimizing See www.wagroupllc.com/epreil for full among the middle class cohort, 17% said the 40-year opportunity cost of a $50,000 fi nancial loss plays a signifi cant role in disclosures and disclaimers. they “wouldn’t seek any information or mistake is $351,999. That’s a seven-fold in- long-term wealth accumulation—really Guardian, its subsidiaries, agents or em- advice, and just make a decision.” crease! bad fi nancial decisions, wasteful spend- ployees do not give tax or legal advice. You So, while almost two-thirds of the re- Opportunity cost is the hypothetical ing, poor accounting, whatever. Anything should consult your tax or legal advisor re- spondents acknowledged making a “re- calculation of a very real fi nancial con- that results in unnecessary shrinkage of garding your individual situation. 3D-Printing fl exible and less expensive when produc- chines that used to cost $20,000 cost- people to upload their 3D designs to the ing relatively small quantities of parts. 3D ing less than $1,000. For instance, as of company website. Designs are then 3D CONTINUED FROM P. 72 printers give designers and concept de- 2013, several companies and individuals printed using industrial 3D printers and velopment teams the ability to produce are selling parts to build various designs, either shipped to the customer or in until the early 2010s that the printers be- parts and concept models using a desk- with prices starting at about $500. One some cases the consumer can pick the came widely available commercially. The top size printer. organization, fab@home project, has de- object up at the store. fi rst working 3D printer was created in Some 3D printing techniques are ca- veloped printers for general use with an- (source – wikpedia) 1984 by Chuck Hull of 3D Systems Corp. pable of using multiple materials in the ything that can be squirted through a The 3D printing technology is used for course of constructing parts. Some are nozzle, from chocolate to silicone seal- NetworkMasters, LLC provides IT sup- both prototyping and distributed manu- able to print in multiple colors and color ant and chemical reactants. Several other port services to businesses in New York, facturing. They are used in a number of combinations simultaneously. Some also new 3D printers are aimed at the small, New Jersey and Connecticut. We special- industries, architecture, construction, in- utilize supports when building. Supports inexpensive market. ize in small and midsize companies. Our dustrial design, automotive, aerospace, are removable or dissolvable upon com- Companies have created services where IT services include network installation, military, engineering, civil engineering, pletion of the print, and are used to sup- consumers can customize objects using new offi ce setup and relocation, data dental and medical industries, biotech, port overhanging features during con- easy web based customization software, backup and recovery, network support, re- fashion, footwear , jewelry, eyewear, edu- struction. and order the items as 3D printed unique mote access, hardware and software up- cation, geographic information systems, Several projects and companies are objects. Nokia has released the 3D designs grades, spam/virus protection, server and food, and many other fi elds. making efforts to develop affordable 3D for its case so that owners can customize network monitoring, telephony and ca- How it works: printers for home desktop use. Much of their own case and have it 3D printed. bling. We also offer customized managed Traditional techniques like injection this is targeted at DIY (do-it-yourself) en- The current slow print speed of 3D print- services solutions. molding can be less expensive for manu- thusiasts. ers limits their use for mass production. You can reach us at 201.353.7998 or facturing polymer products in high quan- The cost of 3D printers has decreased Some companies offer on-line 3D email me directly at haroldn@network- tities, but 3D printing can be faster, more dramatically since about 2010, with ma- printing services. These services require masters.biz 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 73 Dining Guide Calling all restaurants! Advertise your deals and specials in the Jewish Link of Bergen County’s growing Dining Guide! Call 201-371-3212 or email [email protected] 2#"# First Class Service for All Occasions s 3HABBOS #ATERING s !UFRUFS s "AR"AT -ITZVAHS -ORE s %XPERIENCED 3TAFF s 0ERSONALIZED -ENUS s !FFORDABLE 0RICING Avi Levenbrown · Marc Rosen Madison Caterers A division of Kosher Experience 669 Cedar Lane · Teaneck, NJ · 201-787-9333 74 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 75 EVENTS Teaneck JNF Event Outstanding Success record number of attendees turned presented to Ben Gutmann, outgoing Aout to honor the recipients of the Cir- President of the Northern NJ Board of JNF, cle of Excellence Awards and the Com- by Jill Janowski, the incoming president; munity Service Award tendered by the Philip and Marlene Rhodes by Bob Levine, Teaneck Council of the Jewish National National Vice President of JNF; the Com- Fund. Raising over $200,000 for the His- munity Service Award to Teaneck Council- toric Sites Renovation Project at Gush man Yitz Stern by Mark Levenson, Chair- Etzion Visitors’ Center and other JNF man of the New Jersey-Israel Commission. projects in Israel, Gush Mayor Davidi Perl Also in attendance were Teaneck and Shani Simkovitz, Head of the Gush Mayor Mohammed Hameeduddin and Etzion Foundation, quoted the late Da- several Teaneck Council members who vid Ben-Gurion as saying, “If there is a presented citations to the honorees and Jewish Jerusalem, our foremost thanks Tracy Silna Zur represented the Bergen go to the defenders at Gush Etzion.” County Freeholders. For more informa- The Circle of Excellence Awards were tion about JNF contact [email protected]. Heichal HaTorah Celebrates First Siyum With Music & Me hree hundred people joined He- singer, sang and danced with the students Rosh Yeshiva of Heichal HaTorah, who ginning and he was confi dent that each Tichal HaTorah for their fi rst Siyum on and many members of the crowd. The con- told his students how proud he was of Talmid could finish every perek in Shas. Motzei Shabbos December 7, 2013. Every cert ended with the entire Yeshiva danc- their accomplishments over the last three Heichal HaTorah is a warm, traditional ye- student in the Yeshiva finished a perek ing on stage to the meaningful and excit- months since Heichal opened its doors. shiva environment, inspiring Talmidim to of Gemara - some the third perek of Ki- ing song “Yeish Tikvah.” The program also Afterwards, Rav Skulnick, Senior Ram, achieve great accomplishments in Torah dushin, others the fourth perek of Megil- included an address by Rav Stechler, the told his students that this was just the be- learning and General Studies. lah. The special occasion was marked with words of inspiration by Rav Hershel Schachter, Rosh Yeshiva at Yeshiva Uni- versity. Rav Schachter praised the Yeshi- va for making it a priority that each stu- dent should master an entire Masechta over the course of the year. Afterwards, the Talmidim, their fam- ilies and guests from the broader com- munity participated in a seuda and con- cert celebrating the occasion. Benny Friedman, the internationally acclaimed A Different Kind of A Beautiful Opportunity Simcha at Ateres Chaya to Save in 2013. by Shloime Dachs all year, and that he enjoyed hav- ing the opportunity to get dressed usually come to Ateres Chaya, up and dance. Ia grand simcha hall located in Mazel tov is due to OHEL on the heart of Brooklyn, to sing at a 44 years of providing help to in- wedding or a bar mitzvah, but on dividuals with developmental the 7th night of Chanukah, a dif- and psychiatric illness, to chil- ferent type of celebration took dren abused and neglected with place. It was the annual OHEL nowhere else to turn. Since 1969, Chanukah party, where OHEL OHEL Children’s Home and Fam- staff, volunteers, individuals and ily Services has served thousands board members all gather to cele- in our community as a dependa- brate together. It was truly an up- ble haven of individual and fam- lifting and inspiring evening, with ily support, helping people of all nachas infused throughout the en- ages surmount everyday challeng- Available in 11 distinctive fabric styles and over 130 colors, insulating Duette® Architella® honeycomb shades from Hunter Douglas are an attractive way to help lower your heating and tire venue. es, heal from trauma and manage cooling costs. And thanks to the reinstatement of the federal tax credit for select energy- There were almost 750 people with strength and dignity during efficient products, your purchase of qualifying shades may entitle you to a tax credit of up to $500.* This opportunity ends December 31, 2013, so contact us today! who came to the OHEL Chanukah times of crisis. All of these indi- party, sponsored once again by viduals are part of the OHEL fami- Sammy and Lea Trencher. There ly, and without OHEL they would were smiles that warmed the have nowhere to turn and no heart, dancing, food, and delicious place to call home. They all de- sufgoniyot sponsored by another serve simcha and the ability to cel- good friend of OHEL’s children. ebrate with our community mem- The incredible party featured bers. As a proud board member, I all different kinds of entertainers, looked around the room and won- including magicians, face paint- dered where all these special ne- ers and balloon sculptures. There shomas would be if not for Ohel. were gifts and giveaways on eve- Scary thought. ry table, and nobody left the party So, once again, mazel tov to empty handed! OHEL and all its wonderful board One of the OHEL Bais Ezra cli- members, supporters and friends ents who was at the party said who ensure that every individual how he look forward to the party is part of the OHEL family. 76 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM DIRSHU Dirshu Completes Chelek Hei of Mishna Berurah By Chaim Gold Daf HaYomi B’Halacha has spawned Dirshu, and especially Daf HaYomi Switzerland. The celebration will be hundreds of daily shiurim in cities and B’Halacha, are programs that span the attended by numerous Gedolei Rab- irshu’s Daf HaYomi B’Halacha pro- communities in both mainstream and entire world. Last year, Dirshu celebrat- banim representing the entire cross- Dgram of daily Mishna Berurah learn- exotic locales. From Jewish metropolis- ed its World Siyum Hashas in Yerusha- section of the community and will ing is completing chelek hei of the Mish- es such as Brooklyn, Lakewood, Yerush- layim and recently, Dirshu celebrated also be graced by some 15 Daf HaYomi na Berurah, the volume dealing with the alayim and Bnei Brak to less traveled its Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah for B’Halacha maggidei shiur from London, laws of Pesach and the laws of Yom Tov. Jewish destinations like Kiev, Ukraine; the American Dirshu community. Now Manchester, Gateshead, Paris and Ant- This milestone marks the beginning of Berlin, Germany; Portland, Oregon and Europe, too, is having a major event—a werp. The keynote address will be given the home stretch, the beginning of chelek Buenos Aries, Argentina, Daf HaYomi large scale siyum on chelek hei of Mish- by HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Akiva Schles- vav, the fi nal volume of Mishna Berurah B’Halacha has been taking Klal Yisra- na Berurah to pay tribute to the accom- inger, shlita, Rav of the City of Stras- propelling Daf HaYomi B’Halacha to its el by storm. The daily halacha program plishments of lomdei Dirshu and par- bourg, France. The well-known maggid, fi rst siyum on the entire Mishna Berurah. has been ensuring that Jews world over ticularly those participating in the Daf Rav Paysach J. Krohn, is fl ying in espe- In the six years since its inception, are cognizant of Hashem in every ac- HaYomi B’Halacha program. The si- cially for this event and will be giving Daf HaYomi B’Halacha has evolved into tion done throughout the day to make yum scheduled for 20 Teves/December a major address. Rav Dovid Hofstedter, a worldwide program where thousands sure that it is in consonance with hala- 23 at the Finchley Synagogue in Lon- the Nasi of Dirshu, will also be partici- of individuals throughout six continents cha thereby arousing the incomparable don promises to bring together the di- pating at the milestone siyum of chelek are bringing halacha learning into their bracha of Chazal that teaches, “He who verse Torah communities of London, hei, which begins the fi nal march into daily lives and taking tests on it to ensure learns halachos every day is assured a Manchester and Gateshead as well as chelek vav, completing the fi rst cycle of accountability. place in Olam Habaah.” contingents from France, Belgium and Daf HaYomi B’Halacha. ʣ¶¶ʲʹʺʺʡʨʤ¶¶ʫ SUPER SHABBOS SHEET ʠʸʠʥʺʹʸʴ MIDDAH OF THE MONTH PARSHA LESSON +D6KHP WHOOV ʤʹʮ WKDW WKH UHGHPSWLRQ IURP ʤʹʮGLGQ¶WWRXFKWKHZDWHUZLWKKLVVWDIIWRturn Stay calm. 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He brought wild beasts+HNLOOHGDOOWKHanimals in &RPSOHWHWKHFURVVZRUGE\WUDQVODWLQJHDFK hail +HEUHZZRUGLQWR(QJOLVK WKH¿HOG+HEURXJKWERLOVDQG 7KHQʤʲʸʴ WROGʤʹʮWKDWKHVLQQHGDQGWKDW+D6KHPLVULJK- ACROSS 23 WHRXVEXWʤʲʸʴVWLOOGLGQRWIUHHWKH-HZLVKSHRSOH spot the difference ʭʢ 4 :KLFKRQHLVGLIIHUHQW" ʭʩʰʮʹ ʧʥʸ HAIL ʺʥʮʹ ʤʹʮ 5 ʤʨʮ BLOOD FROG ʭʤʸʡʠ DOWN WORD FIND 1. ʣʩ ʺʩʸˎ )LQGWKHEROGLWDOLFZRUGVRQWKLVVKHHW ʷʡʠ S E C O N D E R I T W O E A I S T N E M R A G L WORD CMRLESAB (scramble) ZACTHEM NRBU AEHKRS R D V S S T S A E B A I EINW TAAZHM DEERS WEEK IN REVIEW V A R E X C E E N O N A (+LQW ʧʱʴ RecallDQGVKDUHVRPHWKLQJWKDW I N L A D H L I P S I H KDSSHQHGWR\RXWKLVZHHNWKDWPDGH you think about HaShem. C A L M H S N A K E M T ʠʩʸʨʮʢ E 6 1 3 T I D O V C A E ʧʱʴDQGʺʫʱKDYHWKLV who AM I? Y T N A I W I L D I L E ʣʮ ʷ ʢ ʫ ʮ ʦʫ ʱ ʣ ÷ ʠʩ ±ʬ ʢ [ʡ ±ʤʬ ʢ ÷ʩ x ˎ ,ZRUNLQWKHʹʣʷʮʤʺʩʡ,SHUIRUPWKHHQWLUH O O F R I E N D A L S T ʧ service garments. There ʪʥʴʩʫʭʥʩ ,ZHDU T F I S H J L L A C E R ©¨§¦¥£¡ LVQRWDORWRIURRPRQP\KHDGIRUP\ʯʩʬʴʺ 400 300 200 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 9 8 7 615 4 3 2 Brought to you by: CANDLELIGHTING IN JERUSALEM: 3:59 P.M. ʯʥʦʮʤʺʫʸʡ ʺʥʮʧʰʤʬʲʡʥʺʥʲʥʹʩʤʬʲʡʠʥʤʤʺʠ © 2013 The Famous Abba [email protected] 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 77 CHESED OPPORTUNITIES Care One – desperately needs least once a month (or more if between 11:30 am and 12:00 Bikur Cholim of Teaneck is looking like to be notifi ed when food Sunday, August 3, 2014 As a help in forming a minyan. preferred) to visit people staying noon. Substitute drivers for any for volunteers to visit the Jewish is available, please respond to member of Team Sharsheret, A kosher rehabilitation and in Care One. Contact Arianne weekday are needed, as well as patients at Holy Name Hospital this email. The information will you’ll receive: nursing center located at 544 Weinberger at ariannew@verizon. volunteers who can commit to on a daily basis and Shabbosim. be kept confi dential within the Race gear Coaching Group runs Teaneck Road, 4 blocks south net, Ari Wartelsky at ariwart@ driving once a week on a regular Volunteers must be 16 years or organization, and no qualifying (for those in the NY metropolitan of Holy Name Hospital, is in gmail.com or Alana Green at basis. older to visit the hospital on their questions area) Virtual training Personalized need of volunteers to maintain [email protected] for Please call Francine Cuff @201- own. For more information or to are asked. fundraising page We’ll help you continuity of its Shabbos and further information. 796-5151 if you are interested in volunteer please call the Bikur PLEASE LET US HELP-EMAIL US make this the most meaningful weekday minyanim, which its volunteering. Cholim at 201-836-4950. TODAY! competitive experience of a residents look forward to each Tomchei Shabbos of Bergen [email protected] lifetime. E-mail athletes@ week. This is a wonderful chesed County Bikkur Cholim of Passaic- Shearit HaPlate of Bergen County, [email protected] sharsheret opportunity that can be combined In need of volunteers to pack Clifton helps provide rides for Inc. is our area’s only kosher food .org mailto:athletes@sharsheret. with the mitzva of Bikur Cholim. and deliver. Please contact Cholim and frail residents to rescue organization that collects Join Team Sharsheret at one of org for more information and to Questions, or to volunteer to [email protected] for medical appointments. Rides prepared food leftover from local these exciting races and help join Team Sharsheret today! daven, lain, give a d’var Torah, further information.the following: are available to local Passaic caterers and restaurants, and support Jewish women and Rebecca Schwartz | Director etc., call Rabbi Siev at (201) 287- and Clifton destinations as well then repackages and distributes families facing breast cancer and of Community Engagement 8519 or email to jsiev@care-one. Jewish Family Service of North as to Hackensack, Englewood, it to those that can benefi t in a ovarian cancer. We’ll even fl y Sharsheret | Your Jewish com Jersey, located in Fair Lawn, Manhattan and other medical respectful way that helps ensure you to NY for the race if you live Community Facing Breast Cancer is in need of volunteers who canters as necessary. For more the recipient’s privacy and self- outside of the NY metropolitan 1086 Teaneck Rd, Suite 3A, Sharona Nagler Care One can deliver kosher meals to information or to volunteer esteem. area (from within the continental Teaneck, NJ 07666 visitation program is a homebound and disabled people contact the Bikkur Cholim at 973- US only)! 866 474 2774 | 201 833 2341 Bnai Yeshurun program reaching living in Fair Lawn. Meal deliveries 249-8811. To Become a Recipient: If you NYC Half-Marathon, Sunday, www.sharsheret.org out to volunteers to commit at are made Mondays thru Fridays, or someone you know would March 16, 2014 NYC Triathlon, COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Harry Reid, Majority Leader of bill (Menendez-Kirk Iran Anyone between the ages of 6th October through June. LOTS OF ZUMBA!!!!!!!!!!!! Cong Bnai Yeshurun 641 West the Senate, has been an ardent Sanctions Bill) to the Senate fl oor grade through 120 years old (!) is Cost for participation is $250 and Congregation Rinat Yisrael Englewood, Teaneck supporter of Iran Sanctions. It is for a vote (202-224-3542). welcome to participate. includes all materials including 389 West Englewood, Zumba for Women Friday important to encourage him to A sample phone text is listed Learn to make balloon animals, a clown kit, clown costume, gifts Teaneck mornings 9:45 – 10:45 AM $10 show leadership on this issue that further below in this email. bring joy and smiles to senior citizens for the monthly site visits and a Zumba Teens Sundays at 4PM per person. he worked so hard to implement. and children with special needs. program coordinator. For further through Feb 23 - $12 session. Contact Miriam Kopel at Please call Senator Reid and ask Join Areyvut’s Mitzvah Clown Partner with other special need information contact Danny at 201- Girls Zumba 10:30 – 11:15AM [email protected] him to bring the Iran Sanctions Program organizations. Program runs from 244-6702 or info @areyvut.org. $10 per session GEMACHS AND CHESED OPPORTUNITIES BABIES AND SIMCHAS please contact Fairlawngemach@ Housewares G’mach in Teaneck not want and off er them to those and adults with learning and CHILDREN: Centerpiece Gemach – Cong aol.com. Appts are not made by collects brand new, still in their less fortunate. All the items go to developmental disabilities. There Teaneck Bris Gemach Beth Aaron email. The Fair Lawn Gemach boxes, serving china platters, mixing Passaic where the girls can come are various volunteer opportunities Bris outfi ts, pillows, pillow cases, Contact Ellen Chazin at njellen18@ is under the auspices of Anshei bowls and many other house ware and see what they may be able to available, such as driving young tefi los for mothers to say. Open to yahoo.com or 201 357 8426 or Lubavitch of Fair Lawn. items for new Kallahs in need. For use. We collect things like Judaica, adults to their job sites and the Jewish community. There is no Michele Cooper at benandmi@ more information or to donate household items, small appliances, shadowing some of the students at solicitation of funds. For information yahoo.com ADULT CLOTHING contact Sara Beth Fein at mrsfein@ giftware, etc. For more information various community activities. For or to reserve Email either david.lobl@ Chatan and Kallah Gemach Chabad of Maplewood NJ. Contact: aol.com. contact Carrie Cooper at 201-801- more information or to volunteer gmail.com or [email protected] or Donate new, unopened gifts Lenny Levy, 201-836-7376 or email 9028 or via email at candscooper@ contact Aggie Siletski at 201-833- call Zissi at 718 704 6225. to needy couples. Accepted in [email protected] The Jewish Book Gemach collects gmail.com. 1134 x105 or via email at asiletski@ original boxes household, Judaica, Jewish books for 4th- 8th graders. sinaischools.org or visit their website Teaneck Baby Gemach engagement or wedding gifts that FURNITURE DONATIONS If you have books for donate or Bikur Cholim Wheelchair Gemach - at www.sinaischools.org. Collects baby equipment, clothing are not your taste or cannot be Email [email protected] of a would like to receive books please 201 836 2907. to size 5T, toys, diapers, formula, used. Drop off at Carrie Cooper, 1060 picture of what you›d like to donate contact Moshe and Shifra Schapiro Yachad- National Jewish Council and baby food for Jewish families in Windsor Road or email Carrie at and a recipient can be matched. at [email protected]. CHILDREN WITH for Disabilities Bergen County. For more information [email protected]. Email [email protected] SPECIAL NEEDS YACHAD, The National Jewish contact Avi and Ginnine Fried at for information Congregation Ahavath Torah 240 The Friendship Circle is a social Council for Disabilities, is dedicated 718-753-6275, or by email at Tablecloth Gemach Broad Avenue, Englewood) collects organization for children with to enhancing the life opportunities [email protected]. Recently established in memory of RINAT CHAIM GEMACH fl ower centerpieces than can be special needs that involves them in of individuals with disabilities, Tax donation letters are available for Chaim Yissachar ben Yechiel Zeidel NEWLY FORMED IN MEMORY OF brought to the homebound or a full range of recreational activities. ensuring their participation any fi nancial and/or item donations. Dov Z’l. RENEE CHAYA LEVY. those in the hospital. For more Teenage volunteers are the key to in the full spectrum of Jewish Bicycle Gemach Specialty cloths in all colors and Donations of medical supplies are information call the Shul at 201- keeping our programs running! life. New Jersey Yachad touches Rivky Klar at bikegemach@gmail. sizes for every type of simcha. welcomed (wheel chairs, portable 568-1315. Volunteers can visit a child at our community on a daily basis, com Donations will go to Project Yi’che commodes, walkers, canes, crutches, home weekly for a play date, join a providing inclusive programs for and are tax deductible. Please etc.) Please only equipment in good Yad Leah collects modest and monthly program on Sundays with individuals with special needs PREEMIE contact [email protected] for an condition will be accepted. For contemporary clothing, infant sports, music, art, and baking, join and emotional support for all CLOTHING appointment more information or to donate to through adult, to be sent to Israel. us for holiday programs, camps or members of the family. Services Yad Yocheved – 201 836 2071 equipment to the gemach call Yehiel Donated clothes must be in either cooking programs. Volunteers must include parent support groups, GOWNS Levy at 201 357 5495. excellent or like- new condition. For be in 7th grade or older. For more sibling support, information and Passaic Baby G’mach Fairlawn Gown Gemach more information regarding drop information or to volunteer please referral, socialization programs, Collects baby clothing in excellent Gowns (wedding gowns, mother of The Bikkur Cholim of Passaic- off locations contact Jessica Katz at call Zeesy Grossbaum, Director of weekend respite through monthly condition up to size 2T as well as the bride, bridesmaids and fl ower Clifton’s Medical Equipment 973-594-9118 or via email Jessica@ Bergen County Friendship Circle shabbatonim, over a dozen summer other baby gear including high girls) are loaned free of charge. Gemach yadleah.org [email protected] or via camp programs, vocational training, chairs, cribs, strollers, carriages, Please call for appointments. The Wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, phone at 201-262-7172. Feel free sensitivity training workshops, changing tables, diapers and number is 201 797-1770. The canes, scooters and other medical The Kallah Gemach collects to check out their website: www. advocacy, family retreats and so formula. They pick up in NJ/NY area. gemach has relocated and new equipment to lend them out at no donations for Kallahs in need. They BCFriendship.com. much more. For more information For more information contact Siggy address will be given at time of charge. For more information or collect any unopened new items please contact Chani Herrmann at Berger at 201-486-1492 or via email confi rmation of appointment. For to schedule a pick up contact Yael in their original boxes from people Sinai Schools [email protected] or call 201-833- [email protected]. donations or any other inquiries Gotteib at 973-778-9320. who have received gifts that they do Sinai Schools services children 1349. 78 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM COMMUNITY CALENDAR 30 DECEMBER, per person. Reservations necessary. Galina and Rosh Chodesh Shiur. ATARA of Cong Keter Torah Sushi mindful living” Dr Laibl Wolf of 14January, Tuesday MONDAY For further information contact Demonstration 7:45PM , 600 Australia. Blending contemporary Tu B’Shevat Seder 7:15PM Jewish Refresher course on Taharat 01 JANUARY [email protected] or call Darchei Roemer Ave, Teaneck positive psychology with Learning Experience, Rinat Yisrael HaMishpacha 8:30PM WEDNESDAY at 201 773 4080 Led by chef from Chai Ko Topas ancient Kabbalah to facilitate 389 W Englewood Ave, Teaneck Congregation Beth Aaron 950 10:00AM – 6:00PM 18.00 children 10 -15 25.00 for a “behavioral” approach to life 10.00 per person Queen Anne Road New Years Day Areyvut Motzei Shabbat, January 4th adults training. Led by Rabbi Shalom Hammer, 2nd of a series of four sessions. Extravaganza Garden State 7:30PM Cong Arzei Darom, 725 For more info contact: motivational lecturer for the IDF. Exhibit Center, 50 Atrium Drive, Queen Anne Rd, Teaneck [email protected] 12 JANUARY SUNDAY 31 DECEMBER Somerset, NJ Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein 5:00PM Cocktails 6:00PM Dinner 09 FEBRUARY TUESDAY Mechanical and infl atable rides, will speak on “Step In or Out- 09 JANUARY, Rosenbaum Yeshiva of North SUNDAY Prophetesses, Queens, and carnival games and booths, That’s Your Only Choice.” Rabbi THURSDAY Jersey 76th Annual Dinner Sinai 2014 Benefi t Dinner Villains:Exploring Women in kosher food, entertainment for Wallerstein is the founder of Ohr Moriah School Community Congregation Keter Torah 600 5:15PM Buff et Marriott Tanach ALL ages. Live shows include a Naava. For further information Lecture 8:00PM Moriah 53 South Roemer Avenue, Teaneck Glenpointe Hotel, 100 Frank W 9:45AM – 10:30AM Yeshivat BMX stunt show, the Gizmo Guys contact 201 836 1035. Woodland Street Englewood Honoring Leah and Jonathan Burr Blvd, ,Teaneck Noam 70 West Century Rd, jugglers, and the Chicago Boyz “The Seven Habits of De-Stressed Silver and Mrs Anna Robbins as For reservations call 201 833 1134 Paramus straight from America’s Got Talent. The Jewish Learning Experience Parents:How to eliminate worry Educator of the Year. Call 201 986 x 105 or www.sinaidinner.org/ Series each Tuesday taught by To buy tickets call 201 244 6702 or 7:45 28th Annual Anniversary and anxiety from your life through 1414 for further information. support Aliza Weinberg, 8th grade Tanach [email protected]. Dinner teacher and Tanach enrichment Temple Beth Shalom 4025 Fair Coordinator. No admission fee. Rosh Chodesh Shevat Program Lawn Avenue , Fair Lawn CLASSIFIED 2:00PM – 4:00PM Cong Darchei Honoring Dr Richard and Ellen Chai Society 7:30PM Noam, 10-04 Alexander Avenue, Gertler and James Blom SUBSTITUTE Congregation Bnai Yeshurun 641 Fairlawn RSVP by Dec 27th. TEACHERS NEEDED W Englewood, Teaneck Glass Etching with Suzie for adults Substitute teachers for General and Judaic studies Night of Fun and Food, Dinner and and simultaneously a magic 07 JANUARY, Entertainment by Randi Cohen, $30 show for children. Dvar Torah by TUESDAY in Early Childhood through grade 8. Yavneh Academy, 155 N Fairview Avenue, Paramus, New Jersey NCSY’s Yarchei night after curfew, Rabbi Glasser heard Please submit CV to Helen Lichter at Helen. noises from a small classroom in the ho- [email protected] Kallah tel. He feared the worst, but when he opened the door he saw a group of teens ONLINE BUSINESS CONTINUED FROM P. 73 learning from a sefer that the program had OPPORTUNITY given out that day. When the teens saw to explaining the history of the holiday Rabbi Glasser, they took out dreidels and Local company looking for girl/woman to work and how Jews pretended to play dreidel began playing. Laughing, Rabbi Glasser let in online business. This is a great opportunity to avoid having the Greeks discover that the teens continue learning long into the for someone looking to work from home. Please they were actually learning Torah. One night. email resume to [email protected] 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 79 THE LAST WORD The Technology of Learning: What Will School Look Like in Five Years? By Dr. Wallace Greene vate, are stepping up their use of technology in the courses—which more than one million K-12 students classroom, both as a cost-cutting measure and a way of are taking—found that few rigorous studies had been Part 1 individualizing instruction. done and that policy makers “lack scientifi c evidence” Re-envisioning the classroom to incorporate 21st This experiment is being conducted in schools of their effectiveness. A division of the Education De- century educational approaches involves a blend of in- across the country without signifi cant data to support partment that rates classroom curricula has found that structional styles to provide high quality, differentiat- its success. Mark Warschauer of the Digital Learning much educational software is not an improvement ed education. Although they claim that they are not re- Lab at the University of California, Irvine, writes that, over textbooks. placing teachers with computers, day-schools relying “It is not the technology itself, but the solid package of The AviChai Foundation and the OU support this on fewer teachers and more computers for instruction curriculum, pedagogy, and assessment that improves new venture since it might be an important mod- do generate a 50% tuition savings. They seek to trans- learning.” el for day schools to implement. “Blended learning” form the very nature of the classroom, turning the Still, there is tremendous pressure to push technol- has great potential from both an educational perspec- teacher into a guide instead of a lecturer, wandering ogy into the classroom without proof of its value. This tive and a fi nancial perspective. This is what grantors among students who learn at their own pace on com- is especially true when parents are looking for ways to are supposed to do. Unfortunately, there is a long list puters and other Internet-connected devices. cut their day-school tuition expenses. A review by the of educational experiments that have failed over the This model comes as many schools, public and pri- Education Department in 2009 of research on online years. Technology is valuable and can be an important tool and adjunct to learning. 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Due at signing 1st month/bank fee, applicable taxes, reg fees. Exp. 12/20/2013. DCA # 1312589 DMV #7084665 National Board of License. He is currently consults with day schools and other organizations. 80 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 81 82 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 83 RCBC Warm up with our delicious soups! Sunday • Root Vegetable Monday • Portabella Mushroom Tuesday • Potato Leek Wednesday • Butternut Squash Thursday • Tomato Rice Friday • Roasted Cauliflower All soups are non-dairy We wish everyone a Happy & Healthy New Year! Like Glatt Express Supermarket on 201-837-2326 Facebook for daily Mashgiach Temidi / Open Sun & Mon 7am-6pm · Tues 7am-7pm Wed & Thurs 7am-9pm · Fri 7am-2:30pm specials and offers! 84 December 26, 2013 • 23 Tevet 5774 201-371-3212 • WWW.JEWISHLINKBC.COM