American Israelite, May 10, 2012

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The Inaugural Institute of SCRJ at HUC Jerusalem In May 2011, The Society for Classical Reform Judaism held its first Institute at Cincinnati’s Hebrew Union College. It marked a culmination of scholarships and programs to enable the students to encounter and experience the Classical Reform tradition as a resource for their own personal spiritual development and their emerging visions of the rabbinates. Before the second annual institute occurred at HUC this past week, the inaugural institute at the Jerusalem campus of HUC took place. Below is an account of SCRJ’s executive director Rabbi Howard Berman’s time in Israel.

The Society’s inauguration of our annual program at the Jerusalem campus of Hebrew Union College, held in March 2012, represented a major symbolic milestone, both for our endeavors, and arguably, for the history of Reform Judaism.

When the SCRJ launched our relationship with Cincinnati’s HUCJIR three years ago, we could have hardly envisioned the success and impact we would make on the historic center of our seminary, where we have become a significant presence and an integral part of the academic and religious experience of the students. With the growing scope and depth of our various programs, scholarship and prize opportunities, and our influence on the spiritual development and evolving rabbinic identities of a new generation of leaders, we are challenging and inspiring them to explore and embrace the Classical Reform tradition as an essential part of their personal rabbinic commitments. Our success at HUC Cincinnati has aided our subsequent partnership with Jerusalem’s HUC campus.

For six months, we built on the successful model of the Society Institute at the Cincinnati campus.

Seminars were developed for the two major parts of the Jerusalem student body—the American rabbinic and cantorial students spending their first year of studies in Israel, as well as the local students preparing for the Reform Rabbinate in Israel itself.

We also wanted to present a special public program for the broader Jerusalem community, introducing

renewal of them to the our shared Classical historic Reform traClassical d i t i o n Reform through the heritage. I musical tras p o k e dition of about our o u r progress Movement. over the We were past four committed years since to providour founding scholaring, our ship supemergence port to one as a recogof the nized and Israeli sturespected dents to part of show our American support of Reform their choice Judaism, in dedicatand the ing their many prolives as grams we pioneers of Rabbi Howard Berman have develthe emerging Progressive Movement in Israeli oped with the national institutions congregations of our Judaism. And finally, we wanted to and begin establishing connections with Movement. This was also the first opportunity we had to personally Israeli Reform congregations.

In retrospect, every one of these meet the leaders of Har El, the ambitious goals was realized far “mother Reform congregation” in beyond our expectations. Israel, founded in 1958.

Our first seminar was with the Throughout the past few months, the staff of the Jerusalem campus devot- American first year students. My ed great effort to planning these of main focus was to introduce them to events, and laying the groundwork the history and principles of our herfor the incredible success we itage in a contemporary context. I achieved. When I arrived on March was determined to place this conver19, the promise and potential of the sation within the broader context of historic mission was dramatically their current experience in Israel. I symbolized as I approached the challenged them to reflect on the entrance to the campus on King reality that in the midst of the literDavid Street, and was greeted by ally hundreds of distinctive streams our SCRJ banner hanging across the of Jewish practice, national cultures front doors—proclaiming the and interpretations that create the Society’s presence and message to richness and depth of the Jerusalem experience—their own heritage as the city on its main thoroughfare!

That evening, our SCRJ repre- Reform Jews, with its own distincsentatives hosted a dinner for the tive principles, liturgy, music and HUC faculty, local Reform rabbis values—represents an equally major and lay leaders, in the campus’s voice. I tried to impress upon them Museum of Biblical Archeology. that in the midst of this diversity, We shared our vision of what we Classical Reform is yet another hoped our visit would accom- beautiful, meaningful, “minhag”—a plish—the expansion of our unique set of traditions—and stands SCRJ/HUC partnership, and the on its own as a distinctive “nusach” Society’s commitment to serving —an historic complex of worship our entire Movement as the voice and musical customs, alongside the other European, for the preservation and the creative numerous

Sephardic, Hasidic, eastern and African Jewish practices that converge in Israel today. I encouraged them to ground themselves in their own heritage as American Reform Jews, even as they experience all of these many other voices, and to understand their encounter with Israel as a means of strengthening their spiritual resources to return and serve the American Jewish community. I also charged them to consider that every moral principle and spiritual value that inspired their decisions to become Reform rabbis and cantors, are the enduring legacy of Classical Reform’s courageous Prophetic vision—our belief in the centrality of the spiritual essence of Jewish identity, our commitment to individual freedom and equality, and our determination to respond as faithful Jews to the challenges of modernity. These are indeed the very values that most define Reform as a distinctive alternative both to the dominant Orthodox fundamentalism and the pervasive secularism that are currently the two major options in Israeli society.

The conversations that ensued were positive in their response. The students expressed enthusiasm as they learned about the option that the Society offers.

The second seminar was focused on the Israeli students. This audience posed a special challenge, since the indigenous styles and priorities that define Reform Judaism in Israel are very different from the American context. The importance of the Classical Reform values of vernacular prayer, a positive engagement with a predominantly non-Jewish pluralistic society, and our focus on outreach to interfaith families, are simply not relevant to the Israeli setting. However, Reform Judaism’s historic spiritual and moral values do represent the vital and clear alternative above. These ideals are not merely recent permissive innovations—the conventional Israeli perception—but are rather grounded in a two-centuries old stream of Jewish history, that in turn is rooted in the timeless, universal SCRJ on page 4

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THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

Wise Temple honors its babies On Friday, May 18, the Isaac M. Wise Temple will hold a special family service that honors all of the congregation’s babies born in the past 12 months. This particular Shabbat was chosen as it was closest to the holiday of Shavuot.

For thousands of years, Shavuot has been celebrated as the festival of the year’s first, sweet fruit. Wise Temple believes that babies are the

sweetest fruit of all, and therefore deserve their own special blessing.

The evening will begin with a unique reception, hosted by Wise Temple’s YoFI committee. YoFI stands for “Young Family Involvement,” and seeks to provide programming and resources for families with young children. Each baby will receive a Jewish board book from YoFI as a means to help

establish a Jewish library at home.

Following the reception, the families will join other Wise Temple members for a “Wise Tykes” Shabbat service, which is the congregation’s version of a “Tot Shabbat” program. During the service, Rabbi Lewis Kamrass will invite the parents and babies to rise and join in a unique blessing which thanks God for the miracle of their recent births.

JCC Helping Hands Fund in memory of Jackie Sachs keeps legacy alive Jackie Sachs dedicated her life to helping and educating young children at the JCC Early Childhood School (ECS). After her passing a little over a year ago, the Mayerson JCC dedicated a special area of the ECS as Jackie’s Corner. Now, to continue Jackie’s legacy, the JCC is establishing the new Helping Hands fund in memory of her. This fund will support the educational experience for children at the JCC ECS. Aaron Ploscowe, a parent of two children currently enrolled in the school, is the spokesperson for the Helping Hands fund in memory of Jackie Sachs.

“I’m honored to be asked to head up this fund. Both my wife

Jackie Sachs

and I knew Jackie for a long time.

I remember having Jackie as a teacher when I went to the JCC ECS. Nothing would suit her lega-

cy better than having this fund that will give back to the place she loved and to which she gave her life,” said Ploscowe.

“For nearly one half century, as Jackie’s husband, I believed that I was the one and only love in her precious life; I was so very wrong,” said Jim Sachs. “Jackie had one other passion in her life which she so dearly treasured all these past years. That was her life-long love of the JCC ECS. She relished each special day spent with the children and parents. To be able to work with the professional and valued staff members, many of whom were Jackie’s very dear, life-long friends, was yet another bonus in Jackie’s unique and special working life.”

Be part of the JCC Adams Golf Classic and Tennis Open The Mayerson JCC is honoring the 1966 World Champion Flame Club Basketball Team and Coach Rod McKinley at the 18 Annual JCC Adams Golf Classic and Tennis Open on Thursday, June 7 at Losantiville Country Club. The JCC is honoring the 1966 Flame Club that won the Pan American Maccabiah Games in Sao Paulo, Brazil and Coach Rod McKinley, representing all the Flame Club members over the years.

The JCC Adams Golf Classic and Tennis Open is a perfect opportunity to support the JCC and allow today’s youth to have opportunities similar to the Flame Club. The JCC welcomes all to participate as a golfer, tennis player or volunteer.

There are so many ways to take part in this great event. This year the Classic features golf at Losantiville Country Club, new morning and afternoon tee times, and a tennis tournament.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Steve Adams Memorial Endowment and many vital programs and services of the Mayerson JCC, including Meals On Wheels, Day Camp at the J, JCC Maccabi Games for teens, sports programs for all ages, and more.

The JCC Adams Golf Classic and Tennis Open begins with a

Pictured, the1966 JCC Flame Club World Champion Basketball Team: (Kneeling) Richie Katz, Eddie Loftspring; 1st row: Alan Berg, David Cooper, Ricky Skurow, Coach Rod McKinley, Dolly Cohen, Howard Schwartz, Morry Wiener; 2nd row: Jim Dworkin, Ronnie Neuerman; 3rd row: Neil Ganulin, Joel Kaplan. Not pictured: Mike Youkilis; Manfred Schall.

continental breakfast from 7:15 – 8 a.m., casual lunch at 11:45 a.m., and, new this year, the choice of two golf scrambles at 8 a.m. or 1:15 p.m., with a shotgun start.

The all new Tennis Open begins at 1 p.m. The dinner reception and raffle drawing begin at 6 p.m.

Attendees have the option to participate in all the activities or sole-

ly the evening reception.

This year’s top raffle prizes include a 60-inch LG television, a seven-day condo vacation in South Florida, Apple iPad 3 (16 GB), Reds scout tickets, JCC membership, personal training and more.

Also new this year is the “Barrel of Booze” raffle featuring fine spirits and gourmet snacks.

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The American Israelite “LET THERE BE LIGHT” THE OLDEST ENGLISH-JEWISH WEEKLY IN AMERICA - EST. JULY 15, 1854

VOL. 158 • NO. 42 THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012 18 IYYAR 5772 SHABBAT BEGINS FRIDAY 8:23 PM SHABBAT ENDS SATURDAY 9:24 PM THE AMERICAN ISRAELITE CO., PUBLISHERS 18 WEST NINTH STREET, SUITE 2 CINCINNATI, OHIO 45202-2037 Phone: (513) 621-3145 Fax: (513) 621-3744 publisher@americanisraelite.com editor@americanisraelite.com production@americanisraelite.com RABBI ISSAC M. WISE Founder, Editor, Publisher, 1854-1900 LEO WISE Editor & Publisher, 1900-1928 RABBI JONAH B. WISE Editor & Publisher, 1928-1930 HENRY C. SEGAL Editor & Publisher, 1930-1985 PHYLLIS R. SINGER Editor & General Manager, 1985-1999 MILLARD H. MACK Publisher Emeritus NETANEL (TED) DEUTSCH Editor & Publisher BARBARA L. MORGENSTERN Senior Writer YEHOSHUA MIZRACHI NICOLE SIMON Assistant Editors ALEXIA KADISH Copy Editor JANET STEINBERG Travel Editor SONDRA KATKIN Dining Editor MARIANNA BETTMAN NATE BLOOM IRIS PASTOR RABBI A. JAMES RUDIN ZELL SCHULMAN RABBI AVI SHAFRAN PHYLLIS R. SINGER Contributing Columnists LEV LOKSHIN JANE KARLSBERG Staff Photographers JOSEPH D. STANGE Production Manager MICHAEL MAZER Sales ERIN WYENANDT Office Manager

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for the Society’s vision. There is no question in my mind and heart that our principles of the centrality of the American Jewish experience as a core value of our understanding of Classical Reform Judaism, is and must always remain a primary focus for us.

However, this visit gave me a renewed personal sense of connection with the history and destiny that Israel represents for me—as an American Jew. And even more important, the importance of nurturing and supporting the Classical Reform voice around the world—but especially in Israel, whose influence on American Jewish life and the Reform Movement is so dominant —represents a unique opportunity and responsibility for the Society.

Deepening our connection and impact on our American rabbinic students during this major experience in the formation of their identities and commitments is critical for our success and influence as they continue their studies and development.

During our stay, our SCRJ group visited the Western Wall together. As always, it is a moving and emotional moment, even for a group of staunchly loyal American Jews, whose Homeland is proudly and forthrightly the United States of America, and as Reform Jews who embrace our Movement’s early claim that our gathering for worship wherever we dwell is as sacred as that of the ancient Sanctuary whose outer ramparts these stones represent—and who consequently have called our synagogues by the name of Temple.

We stood at that special place— made holy primarily by the numberless generations of our people whose prayers and yearnings were directed to that spot, and yet a place also dramatically symbolizing the critical need for a modern, inclusive Judaism for the people of Israel. Following the beloved custom, I offered a special prayer for God’s continued blessing on our sacred work, written on our SCRJ business card, which I then inserted within the spaces between the ancient stones. Remembering the words of the Union Prayer Book, that our prayers are made fruitful both by God’s love and mercy and by our own commitment and efforts, I look forward to all of us of the Society for Classical Reform Judaism working together to build on the great beginnings with which we have been blessed, and to aspire to new horizons as we fulfill our mission of preserving and renewing the Reform Jewish tradition we all so deeply cherish.

Rabbi Berman, who was in town for the SCRJ Institute and its national board meeting, looks foward to creating partnerships with the Los Angeles and New York HUC campuses.

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ther shaped by the dominant cultural vocabulary of an overwhelmingly Jewish society. However, there are clear principles and practices that define what Classical Reform means at Har El. Obviously, the entire service is in Hebrew—which, arguably, makes it purely Classical Reform in spirit, since the entire worship is in the vernacular language of the country! However, that Hebrew liturgy reflects the coherent flow and textual principles of other Reform prayerbooks around the world, and most particularly, the Union Prayer Book. The traditional Hebrew texts are edited to reflect a distinctively universal and inclusive theology, and are supplemented by contemporary poetry and prayers. Har El is unusual among Israeli synagogues in its extensive use of responsive readings, as opposed to chanting— reflecting its adherence to historic Reform practice. The service is enhanced by beautiful choir music that includes many of the melodies of the German and American synagogue repertoire.

The importance of the sermon, emphasizing the contemporary spiritual and ethical values of the weekly Torah reading is another characteristically “Classical” element. While the common style of other Progressive congregations in Israel is to adopt more “traditional” melodies and rituals in their services, including a strong—if anomalous—Hasidic style, Har El strongly adheres to a distinctively Reform worship approach. Our SCRJ group was warmly welcomed to the Friday evening service, and I was invited to speak from the pulpit about the Society, our ideals and our efforts. I expressed our deep appreciation for both the pioneering role that Har El has played, and for its continuing commitment to providing a distinctive alternative for Israelis to experience the traditions and values of a liberal Reform Judaism. I shared our hope that the Society could be a partner and a source of support in enhancing and furthering these efforts. The following day, at the Sabbath morning service, I was given the honor of being called up to the Torah for an aliyah, offering the benedictions for the Torah reading. Following the reading, Rabbi Zavidov offered a special blessing on the work of the Society, and presented me with “Friends of Har El” commemorative lapel pins for each member of our group. This was a particularly emotional moment—reflecting both our kinship and a deep spirituality that pervaded the service—it was a very profound personal highlight for me.

I cannot state strongly enough how transforming this entire experience was for me personally and how historic the implications are

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values of Judaism going back to the Torah and the Prophets. This is the Classical Reform connection that I argued could give the Israeli Reform Movement a sense of its own authenticity as it seeks to offer this alternative to countless Israelis yearning for a meaningful, modern religious experience in their lives. Another important theme that I raised was a confrontation with the common misconceptions regarding the complex relationship between historic Reform and Zionism. While I firmly maintained that for Classical Reform in America, there has always been—and still is—a broad range of opinion on the role of Jewish nationalism and political Zionist ideology in our own identity and commitments, I did want to at least confront the usual charges of anti-Zionism as a characteristic of Classical Reform in the past. I pointed out that the leading Zionist heroes in American Jewish history—Rabbis Judah Leon Magnes, Abba Hillel Silver and Stephen S. Wise—were all fervently Classical Reform in their religious practice. This dramatic example of the breadth of interpretation on this critical issue seemed to be particularly enlightening for these Israeli students — who revere these famous personalities as major champions of the founding and building of the State. I was further encouraged by subsequent meetings with individual Israeli students, who seemed genuinely intrigued by our message and its viability as an option for Israeli Progressive Judaism.

Particularly significant was the special meeting I had with the recipient of the Society’s scholarship for an Israeli rabbinic student, Noa Sattath. A multi-generation Sabra, she came to Progressive Judaism out of her own spiritual search for a religious grounding for her deep commitment to equality and justice issues. She is currently a secondyear student in the rabbinic program, and also serves as the Director of the Israel Religious Action Center—widely known as a major spokesperson for religious, racial and gender equality in Israel. She personally identifies herself in the Classical Reform tradition, and is very knowledgeable about the history and values of our position.

One of the major highlights of our entire visit was the wonderful Classical Reform service that the College presented as a public community event. The faculty of the HUC music department, coordinated by Cantors David Berger and Eliyahu Schliefer, a worldrenowned musician and scholar, planned and organized a memorable experience. Announced as a “Festive Maariv (Evening)

Service,” and entitled “B’hadrat Kodesh—In the Majesty of Holiness,” the service was a celebration of both the Classical Reform tradition and the great musical heritage of the Reform Synagogue in Germany, the United States and contemporary Israel, from the 19th-21st centuries. A large choir of HUC students and members of local congregations performed the great choral and cantorial masterpieces that are rarely heard in Israel— possibly never before. It was a particularly profound statement and symbol that this program was not presented as a concert, but was a full worship service—interspersing passages and readings from the Union Prayer Book with the Hebrew liturgical compositions.

The College chapel, the Murstein Synagogue, was filled—and the College leaders were both thrilled and surprised by the degree of interest. I conducted the service, along with Dean Kelman. Some of the major choral works reached heights of power matching any of the great American temples— again, a form of Jewish music that few Israelis have been exposed to.

The week of successes and personal encounters culminated in appropriate Jerusalem fashion, with the celebration of the Sabbath. Our SCRJ group attended the Shabbat evening service at Jerusalem’s pioneer Reform congregation, Kehilat Har El. It is led by its dynamic Rabbi, Ada Zavidov, a gifted younger woman who is widely respected throughout Israel as one of the most articulate and forceful advocates of Reform Judaism. She is joined by another very energetic and talented colleague, Cantor Evan Cohen, an American immigrant, with a deep appreciation and love of the Classical Reform musical heritage which he preserves beautifully at Har El. It is very significant that as the Israeli Movement has grown, with over 25 congregations and additional schools and educational groups throughout the country, that Har El is explicitly considered as the center of Classical Reform in Israel. I had already met with leaders of the congregation, who had expressed great interest in developing a relationship with the Society to help connect them to the renewal that the SCRJ is achieving in America, while mutually acknowledging that in some ways, this has different implications and expressions than our approach in the States. As noted above, the hallmarks of our position in America—particularly a primarily English service, the use of choir and organ, an absence of such ritual practices as kippah and tallit, are not part of the Israeli context.

In many ways, Reform/Progressive Judaism in Israel reflects the more traditionalist pre-War German influence, fur-

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LOCAL • 5

THURSDAY, MAY 3, 2012

JCC presents ‘Let My People Know’ workshops and speakers, May 20 Is there such a thing as Jewish DNA? Explore this and other engaging topics at the Mayerson JCC on Sunday, May 20, beginning at 1 p.m. at “Let My People Know.”

This free event takes Jewish learning to a higher power!

This unique, educational experience begins with a contemporary keynote address, “What’s Trending for Today’s Jews?” by nationally acclaimed speaker Dr. Hal M. Lewis, president and chief executive officer of Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies. A former Cincinnatian, Dr. Lewis is an authority on leadership and has been widely published in the popular press and academic journals.

As an educator, he is an advocate for adult learning, and shares his

unique perspectives on organizational leadership in the United States.

The afternoon continues with thought-provoking workshops like, “Are We American Jews or Jewish Americans: Lessons from Abraham Lincoln.” Gary Phillip Zola, executive director of The Jacob Rader Marcus Center of the American Jewish Archives (AJA) and professor of the American Jewish Experience at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, will explain how after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, Jews in the Union found themselves caught in a dilemma: Would they be American Jews or Jewish Americans?

The afternoon offers two ses-

sions, each with five workshops from which to choose. You can come for the keynote, workshops or enjoy the whole afternoon!

Advance registration is requested.

Scholars have long studied the relationship between Freud’s Jewish identity and the discovery and development of psychoanalysis. Poet and literary critic Norman Finkelstein delves into some of these questions in his workshop when he presents, “Freud: a Godless Jew?” Learn insights into Freud, Judaism, “godlessness” and the “culture of psychoanalysis.”

Culminating the day will be a special reception with Dr. Lewis, former Melton teacher, and recognition of Nancy Klein, founding Melton School director.

Judge Heather Stein Russell speaks at Hadassah Coffee Talk The community is invited to attend Cincinnati Chapter of Hadassah’s final Coffee Talk/Decaf Café of the season on Monday, May 14 at 7:30 p.m. at the home of Stephanie Gilinsky. Judge Heather Stein Russell will be the featured speaker on “Hadassah and Hamilton County: Healing, Helping and Empowering Women.” She will show how the Hamilton County criminal justice system and Hadassah share a similar history in recognizing treatment issues unique to women and how these two institutions have developed programs to help women locally, nationally and in Israel.

Tobe Snow is Coffee Talk Chair.

Judge Russell is a graduate of Walnut Hills High School, Miami University of Ohio and University of Cincinnati College of Law, where she was a fellow in the Urban Morgan International Institute for Human Rights. Judge Russell served as an assistant Hamilton County prosecuting attorney for 17

Mental Health Court docket and was recently appointed to the Ohio Supreme Court’s Domestic Violence Advisory Committee. A life member of Hadassah, she is also a former Loveland councilwoman and a past president of Valley Temple Sisterhood. She and her husband Randy will be celebrating their 27th anniversary in late May, and they have lived in Loveland for 26 of those years. They have two sons, ages 23 and 21.

There is no charge to attend, but reservations are requested.

Judge Heather Stein Russell

years, where she prosecuted cases in Juvenile Court, Municipal Court and Common Pleas Court. She was the first female team leader in the Major Trials Division and Major Felonies Division of the prosecutor’s office. In addition to her regular duties as one of 14 Municipal Court Judges, she presides over a

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Jewish teens get tough on bullying, and they’re not backing down Members of Cincinnati’s BBYO youth group are fed up, and they’re not going to take it anymore! This year, over 13 million American kids will be bullied at school, online, on the bus, at home, through their cell phones and on the streets of their towns, making it the most common form of violence young people in this country experience. It can become so unbearable that some even take their own lives. That’s why these local BBYO teens have made bullying their Stand-Up Cause and have dedicated themselves to tackling the problem head on.

“We are collectively committed to speaking out against bullying and intolerance everywhere,” says BBYO city director, Matt Steinberg. “This past January, we held an event called Occupy the JCC which centered on bullying, and helped raise awareness for teens across our entire Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio (KIO) region.

Since then we have had a number of programs focused on this issue and every one of our teens, staff members and advisors will continue to take a stand against bullying,” he explains. “It’s an issue that each of us can personally address and together we can make real change!”

BBYO is dedicated to cultivating strong teens and encouraging them to make good life decisions through the numerous leadership programs and conventions offered throughout the year.

As part of this ongoing effort a group of BBYO teens attended a showing of Bully last week, a recently released documentary that profiles the lives of five kids and their families. It was filmed over the course of the 2009/2010 school year, and opens a window onto the pained and often endangered lives of bullied kids, revealing a problem that transcends geographic, racial, ethnic and economic borders.

After the movie, the group reconvened at a local restaurant to talk about their thoughts, feelings and reactions to what they saw.

“Every single teenager has struggled with bullying, whether they have been the bully, been bullied, or witnessed it,” says BBYO member, Herb Meisner.

“The movie was very sad, and really opened my eyes to what goes on in other cities, showing the different attitudes people have and how kids are bullied in different ways. I feel more strongly than ever before that it’s up to me to try my best to stop it,” he adds.

“BBYO has taught me a lot about

BBYO members from Cincinnati and across the region are taking a stand against bullying

my peers and how to treat others.

In BBYO, we are a family, and seeing a family member struggle with bullying really sets me off.

It’s BBYO that has made me into the person who has the guts to step in when I hear a derogatory word towards someone or something or see a kid get teased.”

Stacey Wolfe, a grad student in the field of School Psychology, led the discussion following the film. “I could see that the movie had opened their eyes. They saw the range of the bullying and how it affects the kids and their families and how, sometimes, the kids

who are getting bullied are so desperate for friends, that they sacrifice their own safety and wellbeing just to be liked,” she shares.

“I know in their hearts these BBYOers truly want to change things, and I think they really can because of the bond they share as a result of the experiences they’ve had together in BBYO. “It’s scary to step up and make a difference, especially when no one else will. But it only takes a small group of people to make the change and give it momentum, and there’s something about these teens that shows me they have what it takes to be that change!”

Cincinnati BBYO’s interest in taking on bullying as their StandUp Cause was born out of the teens’ desire to have a mix of meaningful programs and fun activities, and felt bullying was an important topic that all teens could relate to. “It’s exciting to see that Cincinnati BBYO is leading the way with this kind of innovative programming,” says Josh Rothstein, BBYO KIO regional director. “Now the entire region has gotten on the bandwagon and we hope it spreads to many other cities across the country.”

In addition to special events, parties, and Jewish social action-

and holiday-related programs, BBYO provides numerous leadership opportunities and offers many chances throughout the year for teens to attend regional, and even national and international conventions, summer camp and trips to Israel. BBYO is open to those who are currently in eighth grade and now eligible to fully participate in all programs and events and attend chapter meetings and conventions.

BBYO is the world’s largest pluralistic Jewish youth movement. From offering fun, meaningful and affordable experiences to Jewish teenagers, BBYO has been providing leadership programs and identity-enriching experiences, shaping the lives of 250,000 alumni who are among the most prominent figures in business, politics, academia, the arts and Jewish communal life in the country and around the world. BBYO’s broad program menu enables teens to explore areas of leadership, service and civic engagement, Israel education, and Jewish values with the expectation that they will exhibit positive attitudes and behaviors about being Jewish while maintaining the values and relationships that strengthen the Jewish people.

BULLYING on page 19

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THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

WRJ Central District visits HUC Cincinnati Over 60 women from the Women of Reform Judaism Central District, representing 20 Reform Congregation affiliates from Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan and Tennessee, gathered in Cincinnati April 27-29 to conduct business and participate in a program called “Your Heritage— Your Community.”

The weekend began Friday night at Rockdale Temple with an

amazing Rock Shabbat led by Rabbi Sissy Coran and a group of outstanding musicians, followed by a beautiful Shabbat dinner in the Social Hall.

Saturday morning, the Women of Reform Judaism Central District were led in Torah Study by Dr. Jonathan Cohen, dean of HUC/JIR Cincinnati campus.

Rabbi Richard Sarason then conducted Shabbat Service, which

included participation by many of the women. Both stressed the magnitude of the contributions that the Women of Reform Judaism have made to HUC and its mission over the years; including the on-campus “Sisterhood Dormitory” and funds raised by the WRJ ongoing Y.E.S Fund campaign that in part, provides financial assistance to rabbinic interns.

After a Mediterranean lunch on

campus, the women toured the Skirball Museum, the Klau Library and the American Jewish Archives.

Local chair Beth Goldstein, of Rockdale Temple and a member of the WRJ District executive board, said the weekend was a huge success due to the graciousness of Dr. Cohen; Jen Lader, director of HUC Outreach; Dr. David Gilden, director of HUC Libraries and Senior Archivist Kevin Proffitt.

Local participants included Lisa Schneider, Deb Loewenstein, Alison Auerbach, Jan Muhlbaum and Beth Goldstein, of Rockdale Temple WRJ; Peggy Eckman of Temple Sholom WRJ; Jenny Broh, Jan Goldstein, Laura Lobar, Sandy Hatfield, Christine Knarr and Dianne Rabe of Valley Temple WRJ; and Joyce Alpiner, Karen Sim, Nancy Apfel and Liz McOsker of Wise Temple WRJ.

Northern Hills Hazak focuses on Israel “The Jewish State or the State of the Jews: Reflections on Israel’s Independence” will be the topic when Northern Hills Synagogue Congregation B’nai Avraham holds its monthly HaZaK program for seniors on Wednesday, May 16.

The featured speaker will be Yair Cohen, community shaliah. The program will take place at the synagogue, and begin at noon. Lunch will be served.

For over 30 years, Cincinnati has been host to one of the most active Israeli emissary (shaliah) programs in the country.

Because of our community’s reputation for commitment to the

State of Israel and to each other, we have attracted talented ambassadors to our city, who have helped forge a strong link between Cincinnati’s Jewish community and Israel. Cohen, the new community shaliah, arrived in September and will be here for at least two years, thanks to a generous donation from The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati. Cohen came to Cincinnati after being trained by the Jewish Agency for Israel and will be primarily responsible for strengthening the unique and multi-faceted significance of Israel in the local Cincinnati Jewish community by

connecting the next generation of Jewish people to Israel’s people and homeland through education and advocacy.

Cohen previously served as the Director of Programming at Gesher, a non-governmental organization focusing on developing a stronger Jewish identity for Israelis and exploring the multicultural society of Israel, with the goal of enhancing tolerance, identity and Israeli Jewish democracy.

He holds a master’s degree in political science from Tel Aviv University and a bachelor’s degree in Jewish philosophy from Hebrew University. He comes to Cincinnati

Outstanding student volunteers receive AJC Lazarus awards Active volunteers from 43 high schools, who campaign for good causes and organize their classmates in compassionate service, received American Jewish Committee’s 47th annual Simon Lazarus Jr. Human Relations Awards. AJC presented the awards on May 9 at Rockdale Temple.

Seth Schwartz, chair of AJC’s Lazarus Awards committee, says, “These students have big hearts and helping hands. They bring unselfishness, caring and leadership to a diversity of causes. Their deeds of loving-kindness enrich our community. Jewish tradition teaches that it is according to our deeds that God’s presence descends. The actions of these students from diverse backgrounds show they understand the value of tikkun olam.”

Ten finalists received award books and cash prizes. Each of the 67 junior and senior nominees brought home a certificate and each school library received a book.

Junior class winner is Derick Polston of Independence, Ky., a student at Simon Kenton H.S., who volunteers as a surrogate big brother in a day care center. He also serves on an anti-violence committee and leads the way against prejudices based on race and disability by his personal “can-do” example.

Senior class winner is Kirjah

Seth Schwartz

Brown-Schmidt of Mt Healthy H.S., who turned her personal situation into an inspired campaign to find mentors for other foster children. Her goal: “to see how many smiles I can put on other people’s faces.”

One of the four senior class finalists is Alyssa Bardach of Cincinnati Country Day School, an ambitious fund-raiser for schools in Afghanistan, an insightful camp counselor, and a BBYO youth group organizer. Her counselor praised her perception and excellent judgment. Her parents are Heidi and Robert Bardach of Amberley Village, members of

Adath Israel Congregation.

Among the 67 nominees were four other Jewish students. Molly Balk, a junior at Sycamore H.S., volunteered to help the speech pathologist at Rockwern Academy and worked with special needs students at Camp Ramah. She is the daughter of Debbie and Mark Balk.

Phoebe Chaiken, a junior at Walnut Hills H.S., is a classroom aide at Wise Temple and coaches Bar and Bat Mitzvah student philanthropists through the Jewish Federation. Her parents are Randi and Jon Chaiken.

Marisa Levy, a junior at Reading H.S., developed a regional event building awareness of child abuse and bullying, and raised tuition funds for a student in Uganda. She has also volunteered at a soup kitchen. Barbara and Brad Levy, members of Temple Sholom, are her parents.

Allanah Jackson, a senior at Wyoming H.S., planned activities, organized students, and spread the word about overcoming cancer.

She also mentored and tutored middle school students. Her parents are Phyllis Jackson and Martin Murray, members of Wise Temple.

Five community leaders served as judges to select and present the Simon Lazarus, Jr. award finalists and winners: AWARDS on page 21

with his wife, Shani, and their twoyear-old daughter, Maayan.

“HaZaK” is an acronym, with the letters standing for the Hebrew words “Hakhma” (wisdom), “Ziknah” (maturity) and “Kadima” (forward). The HaZaK programs are for adults 55 and older, and are open to the entire community. In

addition to members of Northern Hills, many attendees have come from the Jewish Community Center, Cedar Village, Brookwood Retirement Community and throughout Greater Cincinnati.

There is no charge for the program and lunch, but donations are greatly appreciated.

8 • NATIONAL

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

Are Netanyahu and Barak bluffing on Iran, or are they already committed to war?

By Ron Kampeas Jewish Telegraphic Agency WASHINGTON (JTA) — Has Israel’s game of chicken with Iran jumped the shark?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak in recent months have been more explicit than ever about the likelihood of an Israeli strike on Iran to keep it from obtaining nuclear weapons capability.

A number of current and former top military officials are now suggesting that the duo has gone too far, turning what was meant to be a calculated bluff into a commitment to a strike that could accelerate Iran’s nuclear program and engulf the region in war.

Are Barak and Netanyahu merely posturing, or are they really intent on waging war?

Last week, Barak marked Israeli Independence Day with a speech dismissing the likelihood that Iran will succumb to diplomatic pressure to end its suspected nuclear weapons program. He said that while the likely success of an Israeli military strike was not “marvelous,” it was preferable to

Courtesy of Yossi Zeliger/FLASH90/JTA

Israeli military chief Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz walks by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, and Defense Minister Ehud Barak at an arrival ceremony for freed Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit at the Tel Nof Air Force base, October 2011.

allowing Iran to press forward.

A week earlier, Netanyahu had made a searing Holocaust Remembrance Day speech in which he likened Iran to Nazi Germany and stressed his commitment to Israel’s self-defense.

Such posturing is not novel: Israel, like other parties to longstanding conflicts, for years has used brinksmanship to ward off actual warfare. Statements from its military

ending with the threat “we will know how to respond” are routine.

The target of such pronouncements is not only Iran but also the international community, said Steve Rosen, a former foreign policy director for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee who maintains close ties with some of Netanyahu’s top advisers.

Western leaders are likelier to act to isolate Iran when they are faced

with the real prospect of Israel going it alone, he said.

“It’s no secret that American and European interest starts with Israel doing something,” Rosen said.

Eitan Barak, a Hebrew University expert on international relations (and no relation to the defense minister), described the tactic as one of brinksmanship.

“There is a possibility that Barak is saying in a closed forum, ‘The military option is not on the table, but let’s say it in public in order to keep this position of brinksmanship,’ ” the professor said.

The problem might be that the “closed forum” now encompasses only Barak and Netanyahu, he said.

“If this is a diplomatic game, the game should be stopped when you discuss this with people like the Mossad and the Shabak,” Eitan Barak said, using the Israeli acronym for the Shin Bet internal security service. “But it could be that Netanyahu and Barak decided it’s such an important issue, they should make themselves really warlike even in the Cabinet, so that there will be no doubt in eyes of foreigners and diplomats that they are ready to launch a military attack.”

Synagogues slowly expanding inclusion to those with emotional, mental disabilities

By Shira Schoenberg Jewish Telegraphic Agency BOSTON (JTA) — On a recent Sunday, Ayla Watson celebrated her bat mitzvah.

Ayla, who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other behavioral difficulties, ascended the bimah and recited the Torah reading for Rosh Chodesh, the new month. The service culminated a year of thrice-weekly classes or services at Temple Beth Emunah in Brockton, Mass., and one-on-one tutoring. Ayla learned her Torah portion phonetically and listened to a tape again and again.

“She memorized her whole portion, and she did an awesome job,” said Ellen Watson, Ayla’s grandmother and legal guardian.

Now Ayla, who struggled with several tutors, wants to learn to read Hebrew and trope (the Torah and haftarah chants).

In recent years, as physical adaptations like wheelchair access have become more widespread, synagogues have made strides at including people like Ayla — congregants with emotional, behavioral or mental disabilities. And Jewish organizations advocating for people with disabilities have started to focus on teaching religious schools and synagogues to welcome those with nonphysical disabilities into

Courtesy of Temple Beth Emunah

Children celebrating Chanukah at Temple Beth Emunah in Brockton, Mass., where children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have special programs to help them study for their bar/bat mitzvah ceremony.

congregational life.

But there is still a way to go.

Synagogues often do not know how to deal with individuals whose behavior can be disruptive.

Shelly Christensen, author of “Jewish Community Guide to Inclusion of People with Disabilities,” says stigmas remain for mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and anxiety.

Deborah Gettes, co-chair of the Jewish Special Education International Consortium, a network of special education professionals, says conversations are just

beginning about the need for synagogues to become inclusive to people with mental or emotional disabilities in services, youth groups and membership.

“It’s not pervasive throughout the synagogue,” Gettes said.

“Welcoming them as congregants, being aware of who are the people with special needs, what are the special needs. … People who have special needs don’t want to be a mitzvah project. They want to be included in the workings of the synagogue.”

Temple Beth Emunah, a

Conservative synagogue, opened its special needs program 13 years ago. Students receive one-on-one tutoring in Hebrew language, then join the mainstream Hebrew school. All of the students practice leading services together and work toward reading from the Torah.

The key, says educational director Fran Litner, is “acceptance and kindness” by students and staff.

At the Reform Temple Beth-El in Hillsborough, N.J., the religious school has a separate class for students with developmental disabilities, which this year has three students.

Lisa Friedman, its education co-director, says accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis and extend to adults. For instance, a teenage helper came to a high school retreat to shadow a boy with autism and make sure any special needs were taken care of; a blind high school student has a guide; a congregant escorts a developmentally delayed man living in a group home to services and Shabbat dinners.

“When we know there is somebody that needs something different than what we may be offering, we figure out what that is and ensure we can meet these needs,” Friedman said.

SYNAGOGUES on page 22

National Briefs Author, illustrator Maurice Sendak dies (JTA) — Maurice Sendak, author and illustrator of the children’s book “Where the Wild Things Are,” has died.

Sendak, who wrote and illustrated more than 50 children’s books, died Tuesday at the age of 83. He reportedly had suffered a stroke on May 4.

Sendak grew up in Brooklyn the son of immigrant Polish Jews and told the Associated Press that he spent his childhood thinking about the children dying in the Holocaust in Europe. “My burden is living for those who didn’t,” he told the AP. Sendak, who did not attend college, became a window dresser for Manhattan toy store FAO Schwarz in 1948. A self-taught illustrator, he was commissioned to illustrate the book “Wonderful Farm” by Marcel Ayme in 1951, and in 1957 began writing his own books.

In 1964, the American Library Association awarded Sendak the Caldecott Medal, for “Where the Wild Things Are.” He received the international Hans Christian Andersen medal for illustration in 1970, and in 1983 he won the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award from the American Library Association. President Bill Clinton awarded Sendak a National Medal of the Arts in 1996 for his body of work.

Rabbi Gerald Skolnik elected RA president (JTA) — Rabbi Gerald Skolnik was elected president of the Rabbinical Assembly of Conservative rabbis during its national convention.

Skolnik, 59, spiritual leader of The Forest Hills Jewish Center in Queens, New York, was elected Monday at the National Convention currently taking place in Atlanta. He replaces Rabbi Gilah Dror, who held the position for the last two years.

Skolnik was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1981 and served as assistant rabbi of The Forest Hills Jewish Center, the largest Conservative congregation in Queens, for almost three years. Upon the death of Rabbi Ben Zion Bokser in 1984, he assumed the position of senior rabbi of the congregation.

“I am honored and humbled to assume the presidency of the RA at this critical juncture for the Conservative movement,” Skolnik said during Monday’s installation ceremony. He previously served as vice president of the assembly.

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL • 9

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

What does a new president mean for French Jewry?

By Alina Dain Sharon JointMedia News Service

Courtesy of Fabio Venni via CC

Beastie Boys founding member Adam Yauch, known as MCA, shown at a concert in London in 2007.

No, Adam Yauch wasn’t a yeshiva boy, but we can still claim him

By Dvora Meyers Jewish Telegraphic Agency NEW YORK (JTA) — As a student at an all-girls day school in Brooklyn, the first thing I learned about the Beastie Boys turned out to be untrue.

According to a yeshiva urban legend, two of the founding members of the Beastie Boys had attended The Marsha Stern Talmudic Academy in upper Manhattan.

Some MTA students even claimed to know where the hip-hop pioneers had tagged the school with their handles.

This was before every claim could be verified or disproved with a Google search.

After seeing a photograph of the trio in a music magazine in the mid1990s, I decided I could believe that the three nerdy-looking, funny white Jewish guys in fact had been nerdy, rebellious yeshiva students.

Of course they never attended an Orthodox educational institution. Still, despite denials from the Beastie Boys, the rumor persisted.

Yeshiva students continued to project themselves onto this seminal hip-hop act for years, even after Drake came along and started talking about his bar mitzvah.

When Adam “MCA” Yauch, one of those alleged yeshiva students, died last Friday at 47 following a three-year battle with cancer, there was an outpouring of grief and condolences from fans and some of the biggest names in hip hop.

He and the Beastie Boys helped put hip hop on the map in 1986 with their debut, “Licensed to Ill,” the first rap album to hit the top of Billboard’s album charts.

The album yielded several classic singles such as “Fight for Your Right to Party” and “No Sleep Till Brooklyn.” It also landed the Boys on the cover of Rolling Stone — the magazine had been notoriously unwilling to cover rap, a nascent

and increasingly significant art form — with the headline “Three Idiots Make a Masterpiece.”

“The Beasties opened hip-hop music up to the suburbs,” Rick Rubin, who produced “Licensed to Ill,” said in an interview with The Plain Dealer of Cleveland.

“As crazy as they were, they seemed safe to Middle America, in a way black artists hadn’t been up to that time.”

Of course, this sort of attention turned the Jewish bohemians into targets for those who viewed their success through the prism of white privilege and racism. Yet, and this is much to the group’s credit, the criticisms eventually dissipated.

“We don’t hear the word ‘Elvis’ uttered in the same breath as ‘Beastie Boys,’ ” Dan Charnas, author of “The Big Payback,” wrote in a tribute to Yauch published in Spin. “The integrity of Yauch and his peers had a lot to do with it.”

Yauch and the Beasties came of age, creatively speaking, in the downtown bohemia of Manhattan in the early ’80s where punk rockers (as the Beasties had formerly been) mixed freely with uptown emcees and DJs. The racial lines in this scene and early hip hop were crossed in surprising ways.

The Beastie Boys’ own career reflects that. They were introduced to black audiences by the biggest rap act of the day, Run DMC. In turn the Beasties, who were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last month, helped launch the career of Public Enemy, which opened for the mega-successful Boys on tour.

The Beastie Boys paid homage to their myriad influences in the pages of the now-defunct Grand Royal magazine, which started in the early ’90s and reflected their tastes, from movies to artists such as Lee “Scratch” Perry, a name familiar to those inside the hiphop scene as his work is often sampled in tracks.

In France, the election results are in—but what do they mean for the local Jewish community?

Francois Hollande of the Socialist Party defeated incumbent president Nicolas Sarkozy of the center-right Union for a Popular Movement on Sunday with about 52 percent of the vote. Although Sarkozy attempted to destabilize the Socialist candidate in a televised three-hour debate just days before the final election, he was unable to overcome the comfortable lead Hollande had maintained since he became the Socialist nominee in October 2011.

According to the European Jewish Congress, Hollande has said that he will be “uncompromising in the fight against anti-Semitism,” and he will oppose anything that “could contribute to a climate that would isolate the Jews within their own country.” With regard to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Hollande supports two neighboring and sovereign states for Jews and for Palestinians. “Even beyond the Israeli-Palestinian issue, we must be very firm with respect to Iran, whose nuclear program is a vital danger for Israel and for world peace,” he said.

However, Dr. Richard Prasquier, president of the French Jewish community’s Conseil Representatif des

Courtesy of Maxine Dovere

Dr. Richard Prasquier, president of the CRIF (Conseil Representatif des Institutions Juives de France), sits down with Malcolm Hoenlein of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. Prasquier discussed issues of concern to the French Jewish community with American media at the Consulate of France in New York on April 30.

Institutions Juives de France (CRIF) umbrella organization, said at a New York press conference attended by JointMedia News Service April 30 that a Hollande-led Socialist government could allow parties with strong anti-Israel views to gain influence in France.

“What I know is the new category of Jew bashing comes from the position of anti-Zionism, from

those who stigmatize, who vilify the State of Israel,” Prasquier said.

Sarkozy, he said, “is a friend of the Jewish community.”

While Hollande has said he is “totally opposed” to the boycott of Israeli products, which he said is “illegal and does not serve the cause of peace,” his government could take on the Communist and the Green parties as coalition partners. These parties are known to have signed the charter of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)-France Campaign and made an appeal to boycott Israeli goods in 2009, according to the CRIF website.

As of 2010 approximately 480,000 Jews lived in France, according to the Jewish Virtual Library. Historically, French Jews have been influential politically and have also typically aligned themselves with liberal views. “They enthusiastically voted for the left as far back as 1981, when they favored the socialist François Mitterrand as President of the French Republic,” Joseph Sungolowsky, professor of French and Jewish Studies at Queens College, City University of New York, told JointMedia News Service. “But with the rise of the deligitimization of Israel and subsequent anti-Zionist and repeated anti-Semitic incidents, French Jews veered to the right and in 2007 voted for Nicolas Sarkozy.”

10 • ISRAEL

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

Battle lines drawn in the West Bank’s Ulpana neighborhood, with far-reaching implications

By Eetta Prince-Gibson Jewish Telegraphic Agency BEIT EL, West Bank (JTA) — Alex Traiman stands under a tarp in his spacious backyard as his 10year-old, Tmima, turns cartwheels on the lawn.

“This is our home,” Traiman says, pointing to his single-floor apartment filled with books and children’s toys.

“We did not come here to trample on anyone’s rights — we came here to raise our children with values and ethics and to settle the land of Israel.”

Through the haze on an unusually cold day in late April, the barren Judean Hills and, farther to the west, the modern office towers of the Palestinian city of Ramallah provide the background for his emotion-filled statements. Traiman, a documentary filmmaker, came to Israel from New York with his family eight years ago, moving to the settlement of Beit El. His apartment is in the Ulpana neighborhood among a block of terraced rows of 14 identical threestory buildings, each with six apartments. Last year, the Israeli High Court of Justice ruled that five of the buildings, including the Traimans’, were to be demolished by May 1 because a Palestinian resident of a nearby village owns the land.

The state had specifically told the court that it would obey that

Noam Moskowitz/ Flash90/JTA

The fate of the Ulpana neighborhood is pending a review of Israeli policies on West Bank structures built on contested and privately owned land.

ruling. But on April 27, the State Attorney’s Office notified the court that the government is reneging on the decision pending a review of its policies regarding West Bank structures built on contested and privately owned land.

All sides acknowledge that the resolution in Ulpana, however it turns out, will have significant implications for the entire settlement enterprise.

“With all that is happening — nuclear threats from Iran, instability in Egypt, war in Syria, unrest throughout the world — how have these five buildings, housing 30

dedicated, law-abiding families, become such a flashpoint?”

Traiman wants to know.

The Ulpana neighborhood grew from a promise that Benjamin Netanyahu made in December 1996, during his first term as prime minister. Attending the funeral of Eta Tzur and her son, Ephraim, murdered in an ambush shooting not far from their Beit El home, Netanyahu stood by the fresh graves in the small communal cemetery and promised the thousands of mourners that in the Tzurs’ memory, a new neighborhood would be built that “would

never, ever be evacuated.”

Eta Tzur’s widower, Yoel, a real estate developer working with Amana, the settlement movement’s construction and housing company, told JTA that he developed the plans for the area and personally investigated the legality of the land purchase.

“As a developer and investor, of course I wouldn’t build here if the land hadn’t been legally purchased,” he said. “Even though this land was promised to us by God, we purchased the land at its full-market value.”

Tzur said he cannot reveal the name or other details of the seller because, according to Palestinian law, any Arab who sells land to a Jew will be put to death.

Construction began in the late 1990s with the establishment of two religious high schools for girls.

(In Hebrew, a religious high school for girls is known as an ulpana, thus providing the neighborhood with its name.) Construction on the apartment houses began in 2003-04, and the first residents moved into their apartments in early 2009.

Palestinian residents of the nearby village of Dura al-Kara have claimed from the beginning, however, that the land had never been legally sold, and Israeli courts issued their first stop-work order in September 1999. Since then, numerous stop-work and subsequent demolition orders have been issued.

In a surprise move, Likud and Kadima form Israel’s broadest government coalition

By Mati Wagner Jewish Telegraphic Agency JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israelis went to sleep Monday night expecting early elections in September for the 19th Knesset. They woke up to the news that elections would take place as planned in October 2013.

A behind-the-scenes deal clinched overnight between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leader Shaul Mofaz created Israel’s broadest coalition government ever.

According to the surprise agreement finalized early Tuesday morning, right before a plenum vote to disperse the Knesset ahead of early elections, Mofaz’s Kadima Party will join Netanyahu’s government coalition, boosting its numbers from 66 of the 120 Knesset members to an unprecedented 94.

Mofaz agreed not to attempt to topple the government until the official end of its term. In exchange he will be appointed vice premier. Mofaz also will participate in the meetings of the select

ministerial security Cabinet.

The Kadima chief, who had vowed on his Facebook page that he would never join Netanyahu’s “bad” government and publicly called Netanyahu a “liar,” may have had a change of heart in part after seeing polls that predicted his party was headed for a major crash in early elections.

Kadima, which managed to garner a plurality of votes in the last elections with 28 Knesset seats, had fallen to fewer than half that number, according to recent polls.

Netanyahu, who in recent months has said repeatedly in public statements that he preferred not to initiate early elections, may have been tempted by the chance to bring back former Likud politicians such as Ronnie Bar-On, Tzahi Hanegbi and Meir Sheetrit, who defected with Ariel Sharon in 2005 to form Kadima.

‘Repatriating’ these MKs so to speak would serve two purposes,” said Amotz Asa-El, a Hartman Institute fellow. “It would strengthen the Likud. But it would

also dilute the influence of more right-wing elements in the Likud aligned with Moshe Feiglin.”

The formation of a national unity government may also have positive diplomatic ramifications with regard to Iran’s nuclear program.

“A stable government strengthens Israel’s deterrence capabilities vis-a-vis Iran and improves its ability to put pressure on the U.N. Security Council and on Germany not to compromise too much with Tehran,” wrote Ron Ben Yisai, Ynet’s military affairs commentator. “The deal also improves the government’s ability to carry out surprise moves, which also strengthens deterrence.”

Netanyahu and Mofaz said during a news conference Tuesday before the signing of the coalition agreement that there were four central issues that would be advanced by the national unity government: legislation that will obligate haredi Orthodox yeshiva students to perform military or national service; amendments to the electoral process; passage of a

two-year fiscal budget; and advancing “responsible” peace negotiations with the Palestinians.

Kadima’s Knesset members will lead a committee tasked with drafting legislation aimed at replacing the Tal Law, which permits haredi yeshiva students to defer military service indefinitely in order to pursue religious studies unhindered.

The Supreme Court ruled in February that the Tal Law contradicted the principle of equality by giving the haredim preferential treatment and therefore was illegal. The court set Aug. 1 as the deadline to replace the Tal Law with alternative legislation.

Netanyahu noted during the news conference that disputes among key members of his coalition — the haredi Shas and United Torah Judaism parties and the stridently secular Yisrael Beiteinu — were a main factor in his original decision to call early elections. But with Kadima as a coalition partner, Shas and United Torah Judaism will be unable to topple the government over the Tal Law.

Israel Briefs Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat suffers heart attack (JTA) — Saeb Erekat, the chief Palestinian negotiator in peace talks with Israel, suffered a heart attack.

Erekat, 57, was taken to a Ramallah hospital early Tuesday morning, where he underwent a heart catheterization, according to the Associated Press.

He will remain hospitalized for three days.

Knesset bill would give tax breaks for settlement donations JERUSALEM (JTA) — A Knesset committee advanced a bill that would provide tax breaks for donations to “encourage settlement.”

The bill, which was approved Monday for its second and third Knesset plenum readings, allows a tax break of up to 35 percent for both the establishment of new settlements and the expansion of existing ones.

Its sponsors — Likud Party lawmakers Ze’ev Elkin and Zion Pinyan — say the bill includes non-Jewish settlement, according to the Israeli business daily Globes.

Elkin said the bill could assist Jewish development in the Negev and the Galilee, as well as Bedouin villages.

Israel’s Supreme Court rejects request to delay Ulpana razing JERUSALEM (JTA) — Israel’s Supreme Court rejected the Israeli government’s request to delay the razing of the Ulpana neighborhood in the West Bank settlement of Beit El. In upholding its ruling of last September, the panel of judges on Monday ordered that the neighborhood of several apartment buildings be razed by July 1.

The court also ordered the government to pay the legal expenses of the Palestinian owners of the property, as well as damages of about $4,000.

The Yesh Din organization, which represents the Palestinian landowners in the case, praised the court for its verdict and hoped the ruling would be implemented without further delay.

“The Court delivered its verdict, and now the character and the values upon which Israeli society is founded are put to the test,” Yesh Din legal adviser Michael Sfard said in a statement.

In September, the high court ruled that the five apartment buildings found to be built on private Palestinian land be razed by May 1. The state told the court that it would obey the ruling.

SOCIAL LIFE • 11

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

Adath Israel’s Ceremony Sunday On Sunday, Feb. 26, Adath Israel Congregation’s young members took part in our annual Ceremony Sunday celebration. We recognized students in kindergarten, third, and fourth grades. The youngest were Consecrated, signifying they had begun their formal religious school education. The third graders took part in Siddur Dedication and were recognized for their ability to actively participate in Shabbat services. The fourth graders participated in Torah induction showing their readiness to learn as well as their emerging skills of Torah study. We also had the privilege of hearing a “sneak peek” of our Carlebach kids program given by our third, fourth and fifth graders under the direction of our music teacher Mitch Cohen. Photos continued on page 12.

Kindergarteners participate in the Consecration ceremony, singing an original song by Debbie Lempert and our past Rabbinic Intern Mitch Delcau called “I am Jewish.”

ANNOUNCEMENTS BIRTHS BIRTHS onathan and Jennifer Rubin of West Chester, Ohio announce the birth of their daughter, Michaela Rose Rubin, on February 21, 2012. Proud grandparents are Michael and Yaffa Rubin, and Bill and Jill Lane. Greatgrandparents are Joe and Anita Rubin, Helen and Simon Kaltman, the late Shirley and Irwin Fruchtman, and Miriam (Mickey) and Jack Lane.

J

ennifer Grubbs and Michael Loadenthal of Washington, D.C. announce the birth of their daughter, Emory Sheindal Grubbs Loadenthal, on March 25, 2012. Proud grandparents

J

are Mark and Elana Grubbs, Terri and Tony Greenfield, and Richie Loadenthal and Jeanie Hammer. Greatgrandparents are Jack and Esther Grubbs and the late Jean Ann Grubbs, Helen and Simon Kaltman, Dorothy and the late Robert Cohen, and Joseph and Sonia Loadenthal. asha (Marcia Harris Weller OBM) Esther (Melita Bloom Parker OBM) Weller proudly announce my birth on Shabbat March 31, 2012 the 8 of Nissan. Loving parents are Arava and David Weller. My siblings are Solomon, Sophie, and Seth.

My adoring grandparents are Bernard Weller and Laura Parker.

M

The fourth graders show a look of surprise as their characters act out their view of the Parsha.

12 • CINCINNATI SOCIAL LIFE

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

Adath Israel’s Ceremony Sunday

Mitch Cohen leads the students and guests in Modeh Ani

Zahava Rendler, the third grade teacher, presents Siddur Shema Yisrael to one of her students.

Parents of our Consecration class make sure they get the perfect shot!

The Consecration Class recites the Shema.

Parents of third graders stand and recite the Parents Prayer, teaching our children that the Siddur is something they should hold dear.

The third grade presents their program for Siddur Dedication; they shared many of the prayers that they have learned with the audience.

The fourth grade class presents an original Parsha Play for the upcoming Parsha as part of their Torah Induction Ceremony.

Rabbi Irvin Wise shares a charge with the children.

Some of our students enjoying the dessert reception after the ceremony.

Debbie Lempert, the kindergarten teacher, presents a miniature Torah and certificate to one of our consecrants.

The Adath Israel Youth Choir, third through fifth graders, share a sneak peek of their Carlebach kids program to be held on April 20, where they will help to lead the congregation in the Kabbalat Shabbat service.

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

CINCINNATI JEWISH LIFE • 13

Debbie Lempert, vice president of Education and Youth, presents one of our fourth graders with the book “Torah, the Growing Gift” and his certificate.

The Adath Israel Jarson Education Center Consecration Class 5772

One of our Consecrants shows off his new miniature Torah with his Mom.

The Adath Israel Jarson Education Center Siddur Dedication Class 5772

One family celebrates both Consecration and Torah Induction with their children.

The Adath Israel Jarson Education Center Torah Induction Class 5772.

14 • DINING OUT

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Blue Elephant offers excellent Thai, Sushi and Italian

By Sondra Katkin Dining Editor There were many intriguing aspects to the Blue Elephant. The first was a delicious tiramisu in an Asian restaurant. Co-owner Somsak Wongtouwan, who was a chef at the Hilton Hotels, is at home with both Thai and Italian cuisine. His wife, Saowanit (Leena), a third generation Thai restaurant owner, explained that by offering diners Italian and Thai, families who disagree on what to eat can still dine together. After tasting their tiramisu, I understood why it is so popular. It incorporates what cake lovers want most — the velvety consistency of icing as the main ingredient. The creamy mascarpone (a.k.a. icing) infused with coffee accents provided instant transport to the most decadent dessert domain. And (if that wasn’t enough) “dayenu,” the coffee laced lady fingers dissolved into tasty crumbles and nicely offset the rich cheese. These “ladies” had some body — not just the usual fluff. With its warm “overcoat” of dark cocoa, it was the perfect reward to complement all the other exceptional food I experienced here — a great opaque cake for heaven’s sake!

Another surprise was discovering a spot in the parking lot reserved for an alternative fuel car. Leena said that they are committed to the environment and have spent a considerable amount to have the restaurant certified (LEED) “green,” including the SVAC geothermal heat and air system. “People told me that I didn’t have to do everything to save energy, but I think you get it back...over time. This is my building, like my own house!” she noted.

Their dining room is charming with a clean, open ambience. A natural, bicolored stone wall provides a unique focal point with an attractive mural on an adjacent, rose colored wall. Leena chose real leather chairs because she liked their design and lumbar support. What appears to be a wide planked “wooden” floor is actually made of tile. I had to touch it to believe it.

Their exacting environmental standards also translate to the excellence of the food they serve. With two successful Thai restaurants in California, with its large Asian population, she has an extensive knowledge of some superior brands available there, and has them shipped from California. “We use high quality ingredients even if we spend more. We get the best seafood and the best coconut milk even if we can’t find it here,” she added. My husband Steve generally doesn’t care for soups made with coconut milk but he loved the tom kha gai, a chicken coconut milk soup I brought home for him. The coconut flavor wasn’t overwhelming so it didn’t compete with the chicken broth but rather added an extra flavor accent,

(Clockwise) Delicious food at Blue Elephant is available with weather-ready outdoor patio; Sleek, inviting interior, an excellent background for exceptional Thai and Italian dining; High quality and exceedingly fresh salmon, tilapia, yellow fin and white tuna sushi; Exquisite tiramisu — not to be missed!; “Crunchalicious” Blue Elephant Rolls, a perfect appetizer to share (if you must); Sizzling duck with perfect crispy skin and subtly lemon flavored chicken coconut soup.

along with the lemony kaffir leaves, lemon grass, lime juice and other herbs. There was enough white meat chicken in the soup to satisfy your protein needs for a meal. I also loved the broth with its mushrooms and fresh cilantro.

When serving sushi, the quality and freshness of the fish is of highest importance. Not being a lover of raw fish, I was trepidatious about this taste adventure. Nevertheless, a dedicated dining describer must delve into all aspects of delicacies, so raw fish — bring it on! To my surprise, the salmon had the familiar texture of lox, the tilapia was sweet, the white tuna had a fresh saline taste and the yellow fin tuna was simply yummy. I had heard that the fattier the tuna the better the flavor — this must have been a real “gordita” (fatty). I’m ready to try it again. A willing tongue can learn. I had noticed gauges in the sushi case and Leena told me, “They must take very good care of the fish and

keep it at the right temperature.” A customer commented, “This is the freshest sushi I’ve ever tasted.”

After the delicious raw tuna, I ate a cooked version nestled in the Blue Elephant Roll with cream cheese, asparagus and spicy mayonnaise sauce. The wonton skin roll was shaped like a mini ice cream cone and fried tempura style. Savory, light, crunchy and attractive, it pleased my tummy and satisfied me artistically. Move over egg rolls and spring rolls. This is an appetizer to share for the table. There are many sushi and sashimi selections to try including rolls with fish and vegetables and a vegetarian friendly garden roll with cucumber, avocado and seaweed salad. The lunch menu offers curries, special lunch combinations and 18 deluxe bento box specials featuring sushi or rolls including soup, salad, fruit and noodles or fried rice from $7.95 to $9.95.

For my entree, Leena served

their generous portion of sizzling duck with crispy skin. I enjoyed the rich crunch that only perfectly roasted poultry skin can give. The moist, meaty flavor of the duck reminded me of sweet lamb. The veggies were a perfect color and texture contrast with the kernels of the baby corn so fresh and sweet, they tasted like they had just been picked. The lovely green “ducky” serving plate added to the pleasing presentation.

Friends who had eaten duck in China said this duck was better.

There are many wonderful sounding traditional Thai selections on the menu, including pad Thai and pad see ew with thick rice noodles. One diner commented on the extra thickness of the noodles which enhanced the dish for me since I love dumpling style noodles.

A plethora of appetizers, salads, noodle dishes, soups, specialties, curries, wok dishes and seafood give customers a large variety to choose from. The Italian selections,

which include penne carbonara, penne arrabbiata con pollo, spaghetti and homemade meat balls and the terrific tiramisu, add another dimension to your dining experience. One guest said that he liked the pasta here better than at an Italian restaurant. Kudos indeed.

I was pleased to find an environmentally friendly business with great food and a convenient location — across from Hyde Park Plaza. Blue Elephant has patio dining, serves carryout orders and offers delivery service. They have an impressive selection of beer, wine and saki by the glass or bottle. Lunch hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Dinner, Monday - Thursday, 5 to 10 p.m.; Friday, 5 - 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, 11:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.; Sunday, 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

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DINING OUT • 15

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

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16 • OPINION

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Fourth generation software

C O R R E C T I O N: The Letters to the Editor on May 3, 2012 had a letter attributed to Chuck Klein. He did not write this letter and we apologize for any misunderstanding or inconvenience this might have caused. The letter was submitted by anonymous.

Dear Editor, I want to thank Howie Brecher for “filling the gaps” in my knowledge of the site selection for the new ”J”. I need to keep this letter short because I am headed to Saks.

They are running a special on suits. 80% off! The suit is 5 sizes to small , however I can just cut the jacket down the middle and glue some extra fabric on to the pants. We are considering opening a “strictly kosher” restaurant in Georgetown Ohio. My three Jewish partners live out there and they want it close to them. We didn’t do a demographic study for the area, however my partners said “no problem, we promise to eat there at least twice per week.” We want the community to feel welcome so we are going to call the facility “The K.” That way people who would normally avoid Jews will patronize us. We want our restaurant to blend in with the rest of the non descript businesses. In today’s society, it would be politically incorrect to identify the eatery as “Jewish”. The general population might think we favor one religion over another. We also appreciate the fact that advertising a business’s Jewish roots is a guarantee for failure. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a full service Jewish recreational and family needs organization in Cincinnati?

One with Racketball courts, an indoor swimming pool bigger than a bathtub an outdoor olympic size pool, ohhh, my bad. They have something like that in Mason called the Mason Rec Center, The

Countryside Y, Lifetime fitness in Mason etc. I guess they are not Jewish. They close on Christian holidays. I do think Howie could have saved a lot of time and space if he would have simply said; “We selected that site because a few of the benefactors said so.”

Sincerely, Paul Glassman Cincinnati, OH Dear Editor, Every year I am deeply moved by the unity that is reflected in the gathering of our community for Yom Hazikaron to remember Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror.

This year’s commemoration, which was filled to capacity at the JCC’s Amberley Room, also provided an uplifting transitional ceremony into Yom Haatzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day. Our new community shaliach, Yair Cohen, community educator Elizabeth Woosley, and the committee members for these events, did an exemplary job and should be applauded for their efforts.

Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, who was one of the world’s greatest authorities of Jewish law, was once asked by a student of his yeshiva in Jerusalem, if he could take time off from his studies to go pray at the graves of the “tzaddikim,” the righteous souls of the Jewish people in the northern cities of Tz’fat and T’veria, where numerous Talmudic sages and other great

Torah scholars are buried. Such a trip would, of course, take away time from the student’s study of Torah. Rabbi Auerbach told this student that he should remain in the yeshiva and learn Torah and not take such a trip--but not because he did not think such a trip was worthwhile--for he then added: “In order to pray at the graves of the tzaddikim, the righteous souls of our people, there is no need to travel to those cities in the Galilee. When I feel a need to pray at the graves of the righteous, I go to Mt. Herzl—Israel’s national military cemetery in Jerusalem — to the graves of the soldiers who died al Kiddush Hashem, for the sake of the sanctification of God’s holy name.”

This story accurately expresses how we should feel about the men and women who gave their lives for the State of Israel. Those who made such sacrifices are referred to by our Tradition as “kedoshim,” as holy individuals.

We may even extend such a perspective to those who currently serve in the Israeli army — who risk their lives to protect and save others — thereby performing the greatest mitzvah. Unlike terrorist regimes and organizations, Judaism and the State of Israel attribute no holiness whatsoever to the taking of human life, but only to its preservation. The death of one soul, even of an enemy combatant, and even if justified, is still a tragedy that we mourn, and that no soldier in Israel celebrates.

LETTERS on page 22

T EST Y OUR T ORAH KNOWLEDGE THIS WEEK’S PORTION: EMOR (VAYIKRA 21:1—24:24) 1. From when do we count 49 days after Passover? a.) From the first day of Passover b.) From the second day of Passover c.) After the last day after Passover 2. Do we count days and weeks after Passover? a.) Yes b.) No 3. Does the Torah mention the giving of the Torah at Sinai to counting 50 5. A 23:9-14 The Omer sacrifice was brought at the beginning of the barley harvest and on Shavuot was the beginning of the wheat harvest.

This column originally ran in Ami Magazine.

Do you have something to say? E-mail your letter to editor@americanisraelite.com

days from Passover to Shavuot? a.) Yes b.) No 4. When was the “Omer” sacrifice brought? a.) 14TH of Nissan, day of the Paschal sacrifice b.) 15TH of Nissan, first day of Passover c.) 16TH of Nissan, second day of Passover 5. What was the “Omer” sacrifice? a.) Grains b.) A sheep c.) Wine

3. B 4. C 23:11 “After the Sabbath”, can not mean after Shabbat because we would not know which week it is. Rashi

Having recounted the story in talks and in writing, I apologize if any readers are encountering it here not for the first time. It’s actually my father’s story; in fact, I only heard it from him when I was an adult (and not a particularly young one, at that).

It was the winter of 1941, the first one my father, may he be well, as a 14-year-old, along with his Novhardoker colleagues and rebbe, spent in Siberia, as guests of the Soviet Union. It was a most challenging season for the deportees, as they had no proper clothing for the climate.

As the youngest member of the group, my father, known then as “Simcha Ruzhaner,” after the Polish town of his birth, was assigned to guard a farm a few miles from the kolkhoz, or collective farm, where they were based.

The night temperature often dropped to 40 degrees below zero, and he had only a small stove by which to keep warm.

One night, he couldn’t shake the chills and realized he was feverish.

He managed to hitch his horse and sled together, and set off for the kolkhoz. Not far from the farm, though, he fell from the sled into the deep snow and the horse continued on. He remembers reciting Tehillim, knowing that trying to walk to the kolkhoz would mean certain death from exposure.

Somehow he forced himself to get up and run after the horse and sled.

Inexplicably, the horse halted; my father reached it and collapsed onto the sled. The horse took him back to the kolkhoz and the next day, shaking uncontrollably, he was transported to a town, Parabek, where there was a hospital.

There, after two days in a fevered daze, the patient began to feel a bit better. As he lay in bed, the door opened and he saw a fellow yeshiva bochur from the kolkhoz, Herschel Tishivitzer, before him, half frozen and staring, incredulous. The visitor’s feet were wrapped in layers and layers of rags —the best one could manage to try to cope with the Arctic cold without proper boots. My father couldn’t believe his eyes. Herschel had actually walked the frigid miles from the kolkhoz!

“Herschel!” he cried to his equally shocked visitor, “what are

you doing here?”

The answer that came is something my father has never forgotten and surely never will.

“Yesterday,” Herschel said, “someone came from Parabek, and told us ‘Simcha umar,’ [‘Simcha died’]. And so I volunteered to come and bury you.”

That degree of dedication of one Jew to another, even in such trying circumstances and for such a reason, is a tribute, of course, to the would-be undertaker. But it is also a lesson to us all about what it means to be a Jew, to be part of Klal Yisrael.

Boruch Hashem, Herschel’s services weren’t needed, and my father eventually went on, as did Herschel, to immigrate to the United States, where my father became and remains a respected rov in Baltimore. Herschel moved to Boro Park.

Recently, our daughter Chedva and her husband and family moved to a lovely fledgling Jewish community in Ramapo, east of Monsey, called Chestnut Ridge. Among the new acquaintances my daughter made is another young woman, Dini; the two are occasional “carpool partners” and their respective 4-year-old daughters, Shaindy and Tehilla, are developing a budding friendship.

One recent Shabbos night after davening, my son-in-law Yehoshua overheard a guest in shul being introduced as a writer. He was actually the editor of the Five Towns Jewish Times. Yehoshua asked the guest, Mr. Larry Gordon — Dini’s father — if he knew his father-inlaw, who writes for Ami. Mr. Gordon and I are in fact well acquainted; he often republishes this column in his paper with Ami’s permission.

Mr. Gordon’s own father-inlaw, as it happens, is one Herschel Nudel, may he be well, who was once known, long ago, as Herschel Tishivitzer.

The connection between Yehoshua’s and Mr. Gordon’s respective fathers-in-law quickly emerged.

And so, in a new Jewish neighborhood, great-granddaughters of Herschel Tishivitzer and Simcha Ruzhaner play together.

Rockland County is a long way from Siberia. But in a way, at least for two families, it really isn’t at all.

Written by Rabbi Dov Aaron Wise

ANSWERS 1. B 23:15 We count 49 days like counting 49 years to make the 50th year holy. Ramban.

2. A 23:15,16

By Rabbi Avi Shafran Contributing Columnist

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

JEWISH LIFE • 17

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

Sedra of the Week

by Rabbi Shlomo Riskin Efrat, Israel - “On the fifteenth day of this month there shall be the festival of matzot for the Lord; for seven days shall you eat matzot” (Leviticus 23:7,8).

Over the last few weeks, Israel has been through its cycle of commemorative days, taking us through the roller-coaster of emotions as we mourn the victims of the Holocaust and those who died in Israel’s wars as well as celebrating the establishment of the State of Israel. Throughout this period, we have also been thinking about the latest threats of genocide against the Jewish people and at the commemorative ceremonies, our Prime Minister spoke passionately about the Iranian threat. With the possibility of some sort of attack on Iran in everyone’s minds, our question is how should we relate to those who wish to destroy the Jewish people?

As I visited educational institutions teaching about the significance of Yom Hashoah, I couldn’t help but feel a certain satisfaction and even joy despite the deep dark clouds from Auschwitz and Treblinka. I kept hearing in my own mind the verse, “In the destruction of the wicked there is exultation” (Proverbs 11: 10). Is revenge a legitimate Jewish emotion, especially in light of the prohibition against nekamavengeance (Leviticus 19:18)?

Our portion of Emor lists the festivals. As you know, unlike the Festival of Sukkot wherein Hallel (Psalms of Praise) is recited every day, on Passover only “half Hallel” is recited during the last six days out of respect for the Egyptians who died during the Exodus. In fact, our Rabbinic Sages teach us that when the Egyptians were being drowned in the Reed Sea, the Almighty stopped the angels from singing praises. “The work of My hands is drowning in the sea, and you are singing songs of praise?!” And did we not learn in the name of Shmuel HaKatan, “You shall not rejoice at the fall of

SHABBAT SHALOM: PARSHAT EMOR LEVITICUS 21:1-24:23

The Rebbe looked directly into the eyes of his evil executioner: “When the world is divided between those who murder innocent people and innocent people who are being murdered, I would rather be among the murdered than the murdering! Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.”

your enemies?”

When the Nazis marched into the small Polish town of Boyan, they took out the three Jewish leaders—the Rebbe, the Dayan (Judge) and the Parnas—and forced them to dig their own graves. Before being shot, the Rebbe asked to recite a very short prayer: “Blessed art Thou Lord our God King of the Universe who has not created me a Gentile.” The Nazi murderers burst out laughing. “Foolish Jewish pig!” they screamed. “Do you not realize that if only you were a gentile, you could continue to live?”

The Rebbe looked directly into the eyes of his evil executioner: “When the world is divided between those who murder innocent people and innocent people who are being murdered, I would rather be among the murdered than the murdering! Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One.” It is our good fortune that today we have a third option, one which did not exist for the Rebbe of Boyan. We now have the possibility of defending ourselves against those who wish to destroy innocent lives. How well do I remember a talk which I gave 33 years ago to a group of 9 year olds in Kibbutz Ein Tzurim. It was on Tisha B’Av and I was trying to explain to them the horrors of the Holocaust. As I described a kinderaction when hundreds of children were rounded up for Auschwitz, one young boy raised his hand: “But Rabbi, where was Tzahal, the Israeli Army?” I kissed him on the forehead, joyous in the knowledge that a new generation was growing up without any knowledge of life before the Israel Defense Forces.

One cannot love good without despising evil; those who are silent in the face of evil are ultimately collaborators with the evil that is being perpetrated. It is to this end, that we are commanded to “destroy the evil within our midst” and to “blot out the memory of Amalek.” It is fascinating that the verse does not command us to blot out Amalek but rather the memory of Amalek. I would maintain that the best way to do this would be to convert Amalek—at least to acceptance of the Seven Noahide Laws of Morality. The Talmud (B.T. Sanhedrin 99) suggests that Timna, the mistress of Elifaz, son of Esau, wished to convert to Judaism, but was rejected by Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Disappointed, she went to live with Elifaz, and the child they bore together was Amalek. (Genesis 36:12) The Talmudic lesson derived from this is that she should have been accepted. There is even a Talmudic tradition that the descendants of Amalek taught Torah in Bnei Brak!

If conversion is impossible, then evil must be destroyed. And one has a right to rejoice when evil individuals—ready to act against innocent people are prevented from doing so. Remember that God chides the angels for singing songs of praise at the Reed Sea—the angels, who could not have been harmed by the Egyptians, but not the Israelites. As we all know, they did sing at the Reed Sea.

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18 • JEWZ IN THE NEWZ

JEWZ

IN THE

By Nate Bloom Contributing Columnist MUCH MORE GOOFY THAN SPOOKY The original “Dark Shadows” was a daytime TV soap opera (1966-71) about vampires and other B-movie creepy stuff. It acquired a cult following that remains pretty large until this day. What humor there was in the series was almost always accidental, caused by the demands of filming five days a week on a small budget. Fans of the show came to love its many bloopers, like bats flying around on visible wires.

Famous director Tim Burton has opted to use the TV series as fodder for what a critic for MTV has called, “gonzo comedy.” His movie version of “Dark Shadows,” which opens today, is much closer in style and dialogue to Burton’s own spooky farce, “Beetlejuice,” than to the TV show. Still, the basic plot is ghoulish gothic: In 1752, Joshua Collins and his wife leave England to escape a mysterious curse on their family. Twenty years later, their son, Barnabas Collins is a rich playboy lording around his New England hometown. (Johnny Depp plays Barnabas. This is the eighth Burton film that co-stars Depp).

Barnabas begins a romance with Angelique Bouchard, who is played by French actress EVA GREEN, 32, (“Kingdom of Heaven,” “Casino Royale”).

Green, the daughter of a nonJewish father and an Algerianborn Jewish mother, identifies as Jewish, although she isn’t religious.

Barnabas breaks Bouchard’s heart. She’s literally a witch and she casts a curse on Barnabas that turns him into a vampire and buries him alive. In 1972, Barnabas is accidentally freed from his tomb. The living members of the Collins family are a pretty sad lot with oodles of hidden secrets. They include the family matriarch (Michelle Pfeiffer) and her live-in psychiatrist (Helena Bonham-Carter, Burton’s real-life wife). The film’s score is by DANNY ELFMAN, 58, who has scored every Burton film since 1985.

COHEN AS ARAB DESPOT “The Dictator” opens in theaters on Wednesday, May 16.

SACHA BARON-COHEN, 40, stars in the satirical comedy as the dictator of a North African Arab country called the “Republic of Wadiya.” His character, General Admiral Aladeen, appears to be based largely on Saddam Hussein and Muammar Gaddafi. In the words of the stu-

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

NEWZ

dio publicity release: “It tells the heroic story of a dictator who risked his life to ensure that democracy would never come to the country he so lovingly oppressed.”

Aladeen visits America and culture clashes ensue. If the film lives up to its trailer, it will be Baron-Cohen’s best film. I am curious whether this movie prompts a lot of reactions in the Arab world. “The Dictator” is directed by LARRY CHARLES, 55, who also directed BaronCohen’s previous mock documentaries, “Borat” and “Bruno.”

Co-stars include Sir Ben Kingsley, Megan Fox, Anna Faris, and B.J. NOVAK, 32 (“The Office”).

SHORT TAKES On April 25, the Philadelphia Phillies added relief pitcher MICHAEL SCHWIMER, 26, to their big league roster. Schwimer, who had a bar mitzvah ceremony, was briefly up with “the big club” last September. A video of him fulfilling a Phillies’ tradition was featured on ESPN that month: the 6’8” Schwimer had to walk across the Phillies’ ballpark carrying snacks to the bullpen in a “Hello Kitty” backpack. He had to wear a pink feather boa and carry a pink purse. Team tradition requires the “most rookie” relief pitcher to do this.

If you want to see more of Johnny Depp (above) and NATALIE PORTMAN, 31, just “google” “My Valentine” and “Portman” and you’ll find a video of the duo acting out the lyrics of the song “My Valentine.” The song is from “Kisses on the Bottom,” a CD of (mostly) traditional pop music songs sung by ex-Beatle Paul McCartney. “My Valentine” is one of two original McCartney tunes on the CD and is written in the style of a soft ballad from the ‘40s.

“My Valentine” was inspired by a remark made by McCartney’s Jewish wife, NANCY SHEVELL, 51, when they were on vacation and it was raining. She told him to enjoy the day, anyway, and the sun would come out soon. The songs on the CD, McCartney says, were the songs that played in his childhood home. The 14 cuts include six songs by Jewish composers: “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” co-written by FRED ALHERT; “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” by HAROLD ARLEN, BILLY ROSE, and E. Y. YARBURG, “Always,” by IRVING BERLIN;. “Ac-CentTchu-Ate the Positive,” co-written by Arlen; and two by FRANK LOESSER: “The Inch Worm” and “More I Cannot Wish You.”

FROM THE PAGES 150 Y EARS A GO The Rev. B. Muscowitz, Hazan of Adath Israel Congregation here, having been given four weeks’ vacation by his congregation, travels East to recruit his health and attend to private affairs. We wish him a happy journey and recommend him to our brethren, he having been quite a popular and respected Hazan here for the last three or four years — July 4, 1862

125 Y EARS A GO The engagement of Miss Bertha Wallenstein, of this city, to Mr. Lewis B. Solomon of Wichita, Kan., is announced.

Mr. Alex P. Pappenheimer presented the Zoo with a Mexican horned frog.

Tell all the children that the fish pond at the Strawberry Festival, Thursday afternoon, May 26th, will be immense.

Mr. Julian Mack, the son of Mr. William J. Mack, has been chosen to deliver the oration at the Harvard Law School Commencement. Mr. Julian Mack has received many honors at Harvard. He carried off the scholarships in 1885 and 1886, and now to crown all he has been from a class of 200 to deliver the graduating address.

The rooms of the Y.M.H.A. were the scene of a most pleasant and happy occasion, on Monday evening last. The Rev. Raphael Benjamin, who has, throughout the winter, conducted the Litereary Class, closed the course on that evening. At the close of the lecture Mr. Edward N. Calisch, on behalf of the class, presented the Rabbi with an elegantly framed, lifesize crayon portrait of himself. The likeness is a striking one, most admirably executed, and is the work of Miss Newman, a talented young artist of this city. Mr. Benjamin responded in a neat speech, expressing his thanks, and his satisfaction with the rapid progress the class has made. Thus the Y.M.H.A.scores its first literary victory, and may there be many to follow. — May 13, 1887

100 Y EARS A GO Mr. and Mrs. Felix Kahn have left for a four-month trip abroad.

At the Centenary Celebration of the poet Robert Browning, which was given by the Women’s Club, Tuesday, Dr. Grossman delivered the oration.

Dr. H.E. Englander, whose betrothal was recently announced, was the recipient of handsome engagement presents from two Bible Classes which he has been leading.

The Jewish Settlement will convert the Nicholas Longworth property on Providence Street and Central Avenue into a tennis court for the benefit of the poor of that district. The old shacks that stood there were ordered dismantled by the state building department, and as the property is no longer profitable as a rental revenue the poor of the tenements will secure a breathing spot and playground that will be under the supervision of the

Jewish Settlement.

In one thing at least Cincinnati lags behind in the march of progress.

She is one of the few cities that still tolerates the abomination of Hebrew impersonators in its theaters. This is what is now taking place at Keith’s Colombia. It is to be hoped that all self-respecting people will give this theater the wide berth until it falls in line with the course adopted by practically all of the decent theaters in the country, which is to banish the Jewish, Irish and other offensive caricaturists from their houses. — May 9, 1912

75 Y EARS A GO In honor of Irwin M. Krohn’s 25 years of gratis service on the Cincinnati Board of Park Commissioners, the Eden Park Conservatory was re-named “Irwin M. Krohn Conservatory” at a public reception tendered him Monday evening, May 10th, in the park. He has headed the board since 1926.

John D. Ellis, acting city manger, appointed Dr. Alfred Friedlander superintendent of Cincinnati General Hospital, Tuesday, May 11th, to succeed the late Dr. H.H. Langdon. Dr. Friedlander is dean of the College of Medicine of the University of Cincinnati and will head the hospital until the city can find a superintendent to receive Dr. Friedlander of then added duties.

Mrs. Effie Wise Ochs passed away Thursday morning, May 6th, at her home at Hillandale on North Street in White Plains, N.Y. She would have been 77 Friday, May 7th.

Mrs. Ochs was the widow of Adolf S. Ochs, late publisher of The New York Times. He died April 1935, during a visit in Chattanooga.

She was born in Cincinnati May 7, 1860, the daughter of Rabbi Isaac Meyer Wise and Therese Bloch Wise.

— May 13, 1937

50 Y EARS A GO Cincinnati’s second annual Night of Stars is virtually a sell-out according to Dr. A.W. Brown, general chairman.

The event will take place Saturday, May 12, at 8 p.m., at the Jewish Community Center.

The program, sponsored by the Cincinnati Committee, State of Israel Bonds, will celebrate Israel’s 14th anniversary.

Honored guests will be 66 13year-old youngsters.

Stars at the dessert-supper will be Alan Gale, comedian, and Ron Eliran, Israeli guitarist and folk singer.

Mrs. A.W. Brown is woman’s chairman. Mrs. Sam Friedlander is telephone chairman. 1962 campaign chairmen are Isidor Schifrin, general chairman, and Mrs. Sid Gottlieb, women’s division chairman Each child to be honored will receive a memento. They are, in addition to those announced previously.

Robert Brant, Michael Brenner, Louis Claybon, Martin Faust, Gregory Fish, Cynthia Goodman, Samuel

Guttman, Rita Joy Hyams, Judi Levine, Cheryl Sue Linder, Arlene Mayerson, Barry Miller, Karen Joy Miller, Barbara Shapiro, Ruth Simons, David Stern, Scott Stern, Allison Warner, Charles Weisman, Claudia Werner and Namcy Youkilis.

— May 10, 1962

25 Y EARS A GO Shirley Werthaiser will be installed as president of Adath Israel Sisterhood at the annual luncheon, Wednesday, May 27, at 11:30 a.m. in the Lerner Auditorium.

Frani Stein of 6713 East Farm Acres Drive passed away May 9. She was 20.

Frani was a graduate of Cincinnati Hebrew Day School and Walnut Hills High School. She was a junior at Stern College for Women of Yeshiva University in New York City, where she was a Dean’s list honor student.

Frani was greatly admired by her parents, Jacob and Esther (Malman) Stein; two sisters, Leah Rosenberg of Cincinnati and Lori Moore of Anaheim, Calif.; a brother, Robert Stein of New York City; numerous nieces and nephews, Chaim Moshe, Russi, Yehuda Leib and David Aryeh Rosenberg and Jason Moore; an aunt and uncle, Arline and David Reinhard; and cousins, Felisa, Jay and Jennifer Reinhard, all of Miami Beach, Fla. She was the granddaughter of the late Louis and Marie Malman and Morris and Anne Stein. — May 14, 1987

10 Y EARS A GO Miriam O. Smith, 86, nationally recognized clinical social worker, died April 29 of complications after being struck by a vehicle. For more than five decades, Ms. Smith was an integral part of the social work profession, making her mark in many social service agencies and in private practice. While she had previously done casework for family service and adoption agencies when living on both coasts, from 1963-1992 she served on the professional staff of Jewish Family Service, both as a therapist and coordinator of adoption and early childhood development. In 1960, she received the Miriam H. Dettlebach Award for “outstanding service.” On retirement, she served on the JFS board of directors. She was widely known for her wisdom, creativity, and vision which frequently resulted in the development of new programs.

She met her husband, the late Cantor Judah L. Smith, in California during WWII when she was the social director of a USO Club and he was in the armed forces. He predeceased her in 1966.

Born to Dr. Abraham and Anna (Kobacker) Osness, Ms. Smith grew up in Dayton, OH and later moved to Toledo. Survivors include children Deborah, Brandon, and David Smith of Rhinelander, WI, and a son-in-law Benjamin Blackmer of Cincinnati, OH. — May 9, 2002

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

CLASSIFIEDS / FOOD • 19

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Access (513) 373-0300 • jypaccess.org Big Brothers/Big Sisters Assoc.

(513) 761-3200 • bigbrobigsis.org Camp Ashreinu (513) 702-1513 Camp at the J (513) 722-7258 • mayersonjcc.org Camp Livingston (513) 793-5554 • camplivingston.com Cedar Village (513) 754-3100 • cedarvillage.org Chevra Kadisha (513) 396-6426 Cincinnati Community Mikveh 513-351-0609 • cincinnatimikveh.org Fusion Family (513) 703-3343 • fusionnati.org Halom House (513) 791-2912 • halomhouse.com Hillel Jewish Student Center (513) 221-6728 • hillelcincinnati.org Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati 513-961-0178 • jcemcin.org Jewish Community Center (513) 761-7500 • mayersonjcc.org Jewish Community Relations Council (513) 985-1501 Jewish Family Service (513) 469-1188 • jfscinti.org Jewish Federation of Cincinnati (513) 985-1500 • shalomcincy.org Jewish Foundation (513) 514-1200 Jewish Information Network (513) 985-1514 Jewish Vocational Service (513) 985-0515 • jvscinti.org Kesher (513) 766-3348 Plum Street Temple Historic Preservation Fund (513) 793-2556 Shalom Family (513) 703-3343 • myshalomfamily.org The Center for Holocaust & Humanity Education (513) 487-3055 • holocaustandhumanity.org Vaad Hoier (513) 731-4671 Workum Fund (513) 899-1836 • workum.org YPs at the JCC (513) 761-7500 • mayersonjcc.org

CONGREGATIONS Adath Israel Congregation (513) 793-1800 • adath-israel.org Beit Chaverim (513) 984-3393 Beth Israel Congregation (513) 868-2049 • bethisraelcongregation.net Congregation Beth Adam (513) 985-0400 • bethadam.org Congregation B’nai Tikvah (513) 759-5356 • bnai-tikvah.org Congregation B’nai Tzedek (513) 984-3393 • bnaitzedek.us Congregation Ohav Shalom (513) 489-3399 • ohavshalom.org

Congregation Ohr Chadash (513) 252-7267 • ohrchadashcincinnati.com Congregation Sha’arei Torah shaareitorahcincy.org Congregation Zichron Eliezer 513-631-4900 • czecincinnati.org Golf Manor Synagogue (513) 531-6654 • golfmanorsynagogue.org Isaac M. Wise Temple (513) 793-2556 • wisetemple.org Kehilas B’nai Israel (513) 761-0769 Northern Hills Synagogue (513) 931-6038 • nhs-cba.org Rockdale Temple (513) 891-9900 • rockdaletemple.org Temple Beth Shalom (513) 422-8313 • tbsohio.org Temple Sholom (513) 791-1330 • templesholom.net The Valley Temple (513) 761-3555 • valleytemple.com

DO YOU WANT TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED? Send an e-mail including what you would like in your classified & your contact information to

production@ americanisraelite.com

ORGANIZATIONS American Jewish Committee (513) 621-4020 • ajc.org American Friends of Magen David Adom (513) 521-1197 • afmda.org B’nai B’rith (513) 984-1999 BBYO (513) 722-7244 Hadassah (513) 821-6157 • cincinnati.hadassah.org Jewish Discovery Center (513) 234.0777 • jdiscovery.com Jewish National Fund (513) 794-1300 • jnf.org Jewish War Veterans (513) 204-5594 • jwv.org NA’AMAT (513) 984-3805 • naamat.org National Council of Jewish Women (513) 891-9583 • ncjw.org State of Israel Bonds (513) 793-4440 • israelbonds.com Women’s American ORT (513) 985-1512 • ortamerica.org.org

• • • • •

Up to 24 hour care Meal Preparation Errands/Shopping Hygiene Assistance Light Housekeeping

(513) 531-9600

Blender beet borscht Zell’s Bites

ored soup, with a refreshing flavor, to welcome this new season of the year.

BLENDER BEET BORSCHT Makes 6 one-cup servings

EDUCATION Chai Tots Early Childhood Center (513) 234.0600 • chaitots.com Chabad Blue Ash (513) 793-5200 • chabadba.com Cincinnati Hebrew Day School (513) 351-7777 • chds.shul.net HUC-JIR (513) 221-1875 • huc.edu JCC Early Childhood School (513) 793-2122 • mayersonjcc.org Kehilla - School for Creative Jewish Education (513) 489-3399 • kehilla-cincy.com Mercaz High School (513) 792-5082 x104 • mercazhs.org Kulanu (Reform Jewish High School) 513-262-8849 • kulanucincy.org Regional Institute Torah & Secular Studies (513) 631-0083 Rockwern Academy (513) 984-3770 • rockwernacademy.org

SENIOR SERVICES

by Zell Schulman Whenever there were lots of rainy days in the spring, I remember my mother telling me, “April showers bring May flowers.” Our gardens must really be blooming considering the storms we have had this past week. Not only have we had lots of rain, but the weather seems to have also brought summer temperatures. All I could think of this past week was cold drinks and light meals. My appetite only wanted to graze. It gave me the perfect opportunity to prepare cold soups for my freezer. Summer will be here before we know it.

It’s not just our menus the weather affects. Perusing my closet for a dinner date, everything was too warm to wear or too dark! I had to go down to my storage room, and bring up things I had put away last year.

The good thing about “shopping in my closet” is so many of the things I hadn’t worn in such a long time made me feel like I’d just purchased them and couldn’t wait to bring them home and put them on.

It’s a spring adventure I look forward to each year.

Back to the kitchen. One of my very favorite cold soups is borscht!

I start with a jar of borscht from the kosher department at the supermarket, add my special additions and wind up with a beautiful pink col-

BULLYING from page 6 According to a recent BBYO Impact Study, commissioned by the Schusterman Foundation, across several measures, BBYO alumni demonstrate a strong sense of Jewish pride and peoplehood, a

Ingredients: 1- 32 -ounce jar of kosher borscht with beets l cup sour cream, plus extra for garnish l medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and cut into 2-inch pieces 2 green onions, (scallions) sliced Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Method: l. Strain the liquid from the beets. Set the beets aside for later.

Pour half the liquid from the kosher jar of borscht into a blender or the bowl of your food processor, along with a 1/2 cup of sour cream. Blend on low speed for l0 seconds or pulse two or three times if using a food processor.

2. Add the cucumber pieces and sliced green onion. Pulse two or three times, then blend or combine on high speed for five seconds.

Empty into a large glass container or pitcher. (This will stain a plastic container.)

3. Pour the remaining liquid from the jar with the remaining 1/2 cup sour cream. Empty into the large container. Fold in the beets. *Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for several hours before serving. Serve the borscht garnished with a dollop of sour cream.

Zell’s Tips: I like adding extra beets to the borscht. Buy one 8ounce jar of sliced beets in liquid.

Add the liquid to the prepared borscht. Slice the beets into thin strips and fold into the borscht.

You may need to add a little more sour cream, salt and pepper. willingness to play leadership roles and a connection to the State of Israel. They support Jewish organizations with their checkbooks and volunteer time. Alumni also participate actively in Jewish social networks and exhibit a desire and commitment to raising Jewish families.

20 • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT / HISTORY

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

‘The Merchant of Venice’ will conclude CSC’s season

Judah Touro Cemetery Association history

Cincinnati Shakespeare Company will conclude its 18th season with William Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice,” which runs May 11 - June 3, 2012.

In one of the Bard’s most controversial and thrilling plays, Antonio (Jared Joplin) covers a debt for his friend Bassanio (Billy Chace) who will use the money to woo the delightful Portia (Kelly Mengelkoch). The loan is secured from the complicated and persecuted Shylock (Brian Isaac Phillips), who has much reason to resent Antonio. Shylock agrees to lend the money at no interest save a “pound of your fair flesh...” When it seems that Shylock’s debt will go unpaid, Antonio must face a terrible fate.

The matter is brought to the courts of Venice in Shakespeare’s original courtroom battle, where Portia disguises herself to save the best friend of the man she loves. “The Merchant of Venice” comes to life across lines of religion, race and wrongdoing.

“The play continues to fascinate, to incite controversy, to spark heated, even vitriolic debate,” noted CSC artistic associate and the play’s director, Jeremy Dubin. “This play has been twisted, squeezed, manhandled and molded to fit every conceivable political agenda and cultural sensibility. It was used by Nazis as anti-Jewish propaganda, it was used by Zionists to support the creation of a Jewish homeland.

Shylock has been a comedic villain, a surrealist nightmare, a hapless victim and a tragic hero. In attempts to solve the play’s “problems,” it has been subject to productions where,

By Stephen D. Strauss Contributing Writer

Brian Isaac Phillips, Kelly Mengelkoch and Jared Joplin star in CSC’s “The Merchant of Venice.”

according to Arden’s editor, John Drakakis, ‘the novelty of the staging assumed a greater importance than the play itself.’ We will not do that.

Let’s instead honor and admire the head-scratching, brow-furrowing complexity obdurate-ness of it. Let us acknowledge and appreciate a play that makes us uncomfortable because it has no easy solution. For this is, I have come to realize, what I love about the play.”

Dubin returns to the director’s chair following his previous celebrated productions of “An Ideal Husband,” “Twelfth Night” and “Engaged!” Brian Isaac Phillips,

CSC’s producing artistic director, will be featured as Shylock. Mr. Phillips has been seen as Hamlet in “Hamlet,” Hal in “Henry IV,” Bottom in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Stanley in “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

Performances are on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. The theater is located on Race Street, downtown Cincinnati. Ticket prices vary depending on the day of the performance. Ticketing fees may apply. To purchase tickets or for more information, call the CSC Box Office.

The Extraordinary Life of Josef Ganz—The Jewish Engineer Behind Hitler’s Volkswagen

By James Mills Book Review Editor The commonly accepted, and therefore often told, history of the Volkswagen holds that it was the brainchild of German AustrianGerman engineer Ferdinand Porsche. The origin of this version of history, however, derives from the early days of the Third Reich, and a time when the new German state was distorting history for ideological purposes. As George Orwell once wrote, “Who controls the past, controls the future; who controls the present controls the past.”

Author Paul Schilperoord, in his entertaining biography of Josef Ganz, not only shows that history should be a revealing search for the truth, but also explains why the Third Reich attempted to erase

Ganz’s contribution to the development of the first mass-produced, affordable automobile.

The European automobile industry during the post-World War I Weimar Republic was moribund.

Dominated by large industrialists, the industry was resistant to innovation and produced only large, poor handling and expensive cars. Their expense put them far beyond the purchase power of the vast majority of Europeans. Moreover, driving was not a practical choice anyway, since European roads were in poor condition, and few were designed or adapted for automobile use.

Josef Ganz came of age during these same Weimar years. Born in Budapest and son of a Jewish German diplomat, Ganz was raised in relatively privileged circumstances. After service in the Austrian

army during World War I, Ganz pursued a formal education and received a degree in mechanical engineering. Ganz then made a career out of his real passion, automoblle design. In particular, Ganz pursued his dream of a mass produced affordable automobile which out-performed the lumbering, hardto-handle large sedans standard in the Weimar era auto industry.

Ganz became the editor of, and chief contributor to Motor Kritik, a small magazine independent of the established auto companies. Under Ganz’s leadership, Motor Kritik became a respected forum for design innovation and objective criticism of the European auto industry for the shortcomings of their designs and cars. At the same time, Ganz worked GANZ on page 22

Judah Touro Cemetery Association, Inc., incorporated in 1855 or 1856, is located on Sunset Avenue in Price Hill.

All of the Jewish cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati are different.

What makes Judah Touro Cemetery unique is that it’s named for a person. Judah Touro was born June 16, 1775 in Newport, R.I. His father was chazan or cantor of Newport’s Portuguese Sephardic synagogue.

The American Revolutionary War destroyed Newport’s prosperity and Judah’s childhood was marked by poverty. Judah’s father Isaac was a Tory and the family stayed in Newport after the British captured the city. The Touros were then dependent upon the charity of the British troops, who eventually helped them to relocate to the then British island of Jamaica in the West Indies. After Judah’s father died in Jamaica in 1783, his mother took Judah and his siblings to Boston to live with her brother, Moses Michael Hayes, a merchant who helped found Boston’s first bank.

In 1801 Judah Touro unexpectedly left Boston and moved to New Orleans where he opened a store selling soap, candles, codfish and other New England products.

At least one history book indicates that Judah departed Boston because his Uncle Moses refused to permit him to marry his first cousin, Catherine Hayes. In any event, Judah never married.

During the War of 1812, Judah fought as a volunteer under General Andrew Jackson. On January 1, 1815 during the Battle of New Orleans Judah was severely wounded and near death, but over the next year, a close friend nursed him back to health.

Following his recovery, Judah resumed building his business interests in shipping, trade and real estate. Touro made a point of never mortgaging currently owned properties to acquire new ones and he lived a simple life in a small apartment building. He remarked: “I have saved a fortune by strict economy while others have spent one by their liberal expenditures.”

Touro’s lasting fame was as a philanthropist. He contributed $40,000, a huge sum at the time, to the Jewish cemetery in Newport, R.I. Judah also donated the final $10,000 to complete the Bunker Hill Monument in Boston.

He continued to give to many charities, Jewish and non-Jewish alike.

Judah died January 13, 1854 in New Orleans and was buried in Newport, R.I. After a few small bequests to

friends and family (including Cousin Catherine Hayes), the bulk of Judah’s large estate was left to numerous Jewish, Christian and secular charities.

The first burial at Judah Touro Cemetery in Cincinnati was a 1year-old “Infant Klein,” first name not listed, who died Feb. 1, 1856.

This was two years after Judah Touro died.

In my research I was unable to discover a specific bequest in his will to found a cemetery in Cincinnati although I did find a gift to Jews (not Jewish) Hospital Cincinnati, Ohio.

Nevertheless, I believe that Judah Touro helped found our cemetery or, if that was not the case, the cemetery founders decided to honor this very charitable man by naming the cemetery after him.

In addition, I’d like to relate a personal experience. About 15 years ago while on a business trip, I found myself in New Orleans on a Friday evening. I attended Sabbath services at Touro Synagogue which was named after Judah Touro. After the service I introduced myself to the Rabbi and told him that I was President of Judah Touro Cemetery in Cincinnati. Much to my chagrin, neither the Rabbi nor any of the other congregation members I talked with knew that there was a Judah Touro Cemetery in Cincinnati!

There is a bit of confusion about when the cemetery was incorporated. Some old documents and seals said 1855; others 1856.

Some years ago the Judah Touro Board made an inquiry regarding this with the Ohio Secretary of State’s office. We learned that while today corporate records for the entire state are kept in Columbus, in the 1850s these records were located in the county courthouse where the corporation was situated.

Those who have lived here a long time or studied Cincinnati history may have heard about the 1884 Courthouse fire during riots in Cincinnati. The incorporation records of Judah Touro Cemetery were destroyed in the fire so the exact date of the Cemetery’s incorporation is lost in the mists of history.

Another way the Touro Cemetery is unique is how it is not, nor has it ever been, affiliated with a temple or synagogue.

Although lots of temple and synagogue members are buried at Judah Touro (my parents belonged to Wise Temple), there are many Jews, including my grandparents and great-grandparents who were not members of a congregation.

HISTORY on page 22

AUTOS • 21

THURSDAY, MAY 10, 2012

2012 Audi A7—More for your money This completely new vehicle was born from a blank sheet of paper. The result is the stunning, allnew Audi A7. Athletic, elegant and dramatic, the A7 is a five-door coupe with the graceful look of a bench-mark luxury sedan.

The A7 is more than a design icon, it sets a high standard for performance and handling as well.

Central to this is the 3.0-liter supercharged V6. With 310 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque eagerly awaiting your whim, the A7 more than lives up to its dynamic looks.

Thoughtful touches like the leather seating surfaces, which are anatomically contoured, remind you that when it comes to luxury you are literally sitting in the lap of it.

Further supporting this notion is the eight-way power adjustable seating with four-way lumbar support for the driver. The available heated seats for all passengers (Heated

front seats are standard, rear seats are optional) and three-stage seat ventilation for front passengers drives the luxury theme home. Yet, what is really driving it, is you. All of the essentials at your fingertips.

All of the materials throughout the A7 are meticulously chosen, designed and honed to work in concert. With this attention to detail, the A7 more than delivers on its promise.

Like luxury, comfort and performance, Audi sets the bar higher than others in regards to saftey.

Their ingenius Quattro technology is complemented by the advanced technology of Electronic Stability Control (ESC), which includes Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and AntiSlip Regulation (ASR). Together, they add an element of safety.

An array of available driver assistance technologies provides

The changing of the guard—2013 Lexus GS Lexus is changing the guard, introducing the new 2013 GS line, the new face of Lexus. The all-new GS was engineered from the ground up to provide performance and handling that invigorates, nextgeneration technology that empowers you to do more, and unforgettable styling inside and out. From this car forward, Lexus will never be the same.

The driver truly gets the most fun. You can choose your own level of driver intensity with three modes that not only effect the car’s driving, but the atmosphere within.

ECO mode, a calming blue light, surrounds the gauge cluster while the throttle response and engine power output are moderated for increased fuel efficiency.

The climate settings are also optimized by periodically switching to recirculation mode to reduce ventilation loss and even using the heated seat function for more efficient warming.

The Sport S mode changes the gauge cluster lighting to a fiery red and alters the powertrain for faster gear changes and more dynamic

throttle mapping. Available Sport S+ mode goes a step further by also tightening the suspension and increasing steering response. In both modes, the transmission’s shift points are automatically altered coming into and out of corners for sharper acceleration.

While other companies were worried about the luxury within, Lexus was worried about the luxury of one’s life. While an ordinary crash test dummy can provide 119 data points, Lexus uses digital models comprised of millions. The result of such an innovative approach to safety: The GS is equipped with a class-leading 10airbag system that includes an allnew side airbag design to help provide additional support for the rib cage and upper arm. And, to help decrease the severity of whiplashtype injuries, new Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to absorb some of the force of the impact by pushing backward in certain rear collisions.

The MSRP of the GS350 is $46,900 and $52,590 for the GS350 F Sport.

AWARDS from page 7

Cohen, Eric Dauer, Stacey Fisher, Carol Goodman, Tara Gordon, Abram Gordon, Linda Grayman, Aimee Guttman, Heather Heldman, Andrea Herzig, Mark Krumbein, Todd Schild, Sandy Rubin Seibold, Debbie Snyder, Noah Stern, Amy Sukin, Brian Swift, and Debbie Westheimer. High school students Zack Fisher, Isabella Guttman, Jordan Seibold and Elizabeth Sukin also participated.

Dr. Jacqueline Collins, associate professor of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati; Terry Garcia Crews, CEO, SORTA/Metro; Ross Meyer, executive director, Greater Cincinnati Workforce Network; Shanda Spurlock, attorney, Dinsmore & Shohl; and Joe Wessels, executive director, iRhine.

Committee members included Dara Abel, Dr. Cal Adler, Jeff

the driver with a number of conveniences that help keep you alert to danger. Audi side assist helps monitor your blind spot areas

while helping make you aware of unseen vehicles.

It is everything you’ve dreamed about in a car and with an MSRP of

$59,250 it’s at a price you can afford and that other car companies will find hard to compete with the bang you get for your buck.

Audi Connection earns top Magna Society honors from Audi for top performance in record-breaking 2011 As a 2011 Magna Society award winner, Audi Connection has been recognized as one of the 106 top Audi dealerships in the United States and a leader in a year that saw the premium car brand achieve record nationwide sales of 117,561 vehicles.

The Magna Society acknowledges Audi dealers that deliver exceptional customer service, maintain strong sales and demonstrate excellence in all areas of business.

This honor is bestowed upon dealerships that exemplify the attention to detail and progressive attributes that distinguish the Audi brand.

“Premium performance car buyers expect the Audi brand experience to match their high expectations elsewhere,” said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America.

“With the Magna Society award, we celebrate the success of our best dealers to exceed those expectations and delight these discriminating customers.”

DURING THE MONTH OF MAY, LEXUS WILL MAKE YOUR FIRST LEASE PAYMENT!* on these select models

IS 250

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22 • OBITUARIES D EATH N OTICES KAUFMAN, Florence, age 94, died on May 1, 2012; 10 Iyar, 5772.

BLUESTEIN, Deneal, age 85, died on May 3, 2012; 11 Iyar, 5772.

BERG, Robert, age 90, died on May 5, 2012; 13 Iyar, 5772.

OSADCHY, Lev, age 81, died on May 7, 2012; 11 Iyar, 5772.

LETTERS from page 16 This year’s gathering featured SYNAGOGUES from page 8 Those synagogues, however, may be the exception rather than the rule.

Rina Pianko, a member of the UJA-Federation of New York’s Caring Commission, has three sons. Her youngest, Gideon, is on GANZ from page 20 on his own designs and patented many for such innovations as independent suspension, swing axles, and rear mounted, air-cooled engines. He eventually produced two prototypes, the first called the Maikafer (May bug), followed by the Standard Superior. Both were remarkably similar to the eventual Porsche Volkswagen, and received critical praise from Ganz’s independent-minded contemporaries, including Porsche.

Ganz used Motor Kritik to advance his own designs and those of other independent designers and HISTORY from page 20 In addition, some Jews who married non Jews are buried at Judah Touro alongside their gentile spous-

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Israeli soldiers who participated in the ceremony and who also serve in the choir of the Israel Defense Forces. Before the program was to begin, I privately introduced myself as a rabbi in the community and thanked them for their devotion to our nation: “You are ‘kedoshim,’ — ‘holy’ people who save livesm without whom our holy land could not continue to offer the great bounty of blessings that God has granted it. We who benefit from all that Israel provides us, spiritually and culturally, can only do so, because of you. Every year for over twenty years, the community has asked me to recite the memorial prayer, for those who have

died fighting for the State of Israel. As someone who has not personally fought in the Israeli army, I always ask myself: ‘Who am I to recite this prayer for people like you who have fought for the State of Israel and who have surely lost relatives, close friends, or comrades, in the wars and battles to establish and preserve the State? Please grant me your permission to recite this prayer for holy people like you who are much more worthy to recite it than I.’” The soldiers genuinely thanked me for my words but clearly were taken aback. As is often the case with those who serve in heroic capacities, with

great humility they responded that they did not feel they deserved any special recognition for doing what was necessary to ensure the survival of the State of Israel and its people. Moreover, they told me that their permission was not needed for my prayer to be offered. As I continued to insist, they finally responded with a resounding: “Vadai!,” “Certainly!”

Truth be told, there are members of our own community who have served and serve in the IDF. It is, indeed, very humbling to know that these individualsare among those to whom we can now look for inspiration, in making a choice to give their lives, if

called upon to do so, for the Jewish people.

We pray that God will continue to bless the holy soldiers of the State of Israel, but let us also pray that one day we will no longer have need for those soldiers. For it is our hope that memorial prayers for new victims of bloodshed and terror will no longer be recited--for the Jewish people or for any other people--and that holiness will be experienced only through the peaceful existence that defines the relationship of Israel and her neighbors.

the autism spectrum.

While living in Connecticut, Pianko switched from a Conservative to an Orthodox synagogue because the Orthodox shul was the only area synagogue that would allow her son to attend Hebrew school and have a bar mitzvah ceremony.

“It wasn’t easy to access the resources of the Jewish community,” Pianko said. Compared with her experience with her older boys, she said, “there was a real difference in the way the Jewish community welcomed us.”

Jewish institutions such as camps and Hebrew schools did

not have the tools or resources to help her son, Pianko says.

Now living in New York, Gideon Pianko, 24, attends services geared toward people with disabilities at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, a Reform temple. His interest in musical theater led a

synagogue leader to invite him to attend rehearsals for a synagogue performance of “Damn Yankees.”

In the past decade, his mother said, “There’s been a sea change in how this is looked at. ..It’s not looked as tzedakah [charity] but as something that’s a right.”

to criticize, often stridently, the designs of the established European auto industry. Ganz repeated in issue after issue his demand for mass produced affordable automobiles that performed better than the available sedans. Ganz wanted to popularize the motoring experience by making it available to most at an affordable price. This made Ganz and his magazine many enemies, including one former collegue turned Nazi insider who would haunt him for decades.

The intransigence of the German auto industry changed almost immediately after Hitler’s election in 1933 and his assumption of dictatorial power after Von Hindenburg’s death

and the Reichstag Fire. Hitler shared Ganz’s vision of millions of Germans driving affordable cars on new roads designed specifically for automobiles. Hitler made this vision a cornerstone of his domestic economic policy and forced the auto industry to drop their long-standing resistance.

Hitler eventually picked Porsche to oversee the design and manufacture of the new people’s car, and put the power of the Nazi state behind the project. This sealed Ganz’s fate, as old enemies seized on his being a Jew to both persecute him and appropriate his designs and patents. Furthermore, Ganz’s patents were wiped clean from German records.

Ganz fled to Switzerland in 1934 and never returned to Germany, with one execption. He and a loyal friend made a secret trip back to Ganz’s home in Frankfurt to retrieve his paperwork, which included all of his original designs and patent documentation. Ganz spent the rest of the Third Reich in efforts to avoid imprisonment and assassination.

From 1934 through the post-World War II years, Ganz fought legal battles to protect his intellectual property. He lost many of his family in the death camps, and died in obscurity years later in Australia.

Schilperoord describes Ganz as a man of both rare intellect and

courage. Through the years, Ganz fought on for his ideas and property, never losing faith that man-made systems of justice would see to it that his cause would prevail. While Ganz’s perserverance for justice in his lifetime was futile, his efforts — starting with the heroic trip to Frankfort to get his documents before the Nazi’s could destroy him, and continuing with his many court cases to protect his inventions — did leave a record of his work. While there probably are other lingering historical distortions born of the Third Riech, Schilperoord has made a worthy contribution to correcting one of them.

es. Until almost the time of World War I, the Minutes of the Judah Touro Board were in German and many of the older monuments and tombstones list places of birth in

Germany.

In the past 20 years or so a number of recent Russian immigrants have been buried at Judah Touro.

Anyone who visits this cemetery will note that it is atop Price Hill. I

imagine the funeral processions in the days before motor vehicles. A horsedrawn wagon bearing the casket would depart from the city’s basin. After some hours, the procession would arrive at the entrance of the cemetery on Sunset Avenue in Price Hill. Then the horses would have to pull the wagon up Judah Touro’s steep hill.

My association with Judah Touro goes back a long time. One of my great-grandfathers was on the Judah

Touro Board; my parents, some grand and great-grandparents are buried there together with other assorted relatives. When I was a child, my family would always visit Judah Touro two or three times a year and I recall that my father would always hand some cash, a “tip,” to the caretaker.

After my father died in 1975, I was invited to join the Judah Touro Board. I eventually became president and the rest is history.

Sincerely, Rabbi Hanan Balk Golf Manor Synagogue

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2012 TRA VEL ISSUE DEADLINE: MAY 18 | PUBLISHES: MAY 24

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