The American Israelite, July 19, 2012

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Ethics inquiry may hurt rise to Senate for Rep. Shelley Berkley, a pro...

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Seeking kin: A fateful encounter at sea

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Circumcision ruling inspires defense, debate in Germany

The Dead Sea Scrolls are coming to Cincinnati

By Joshua Mizrachi Assistant Editor

Mother-Daughter programming at Sarah’s Place

T H E R E

This fall, our community will have an opportunity to experience the 2,000-year old Dead Sea Scrolls in many different ways, including a spectacular five-month exhibit at the Cincinnati Museum Center for which The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati will be the Presenting Sponsor. “The Dead Sea Scrolls: Life and Faith in Ancient Times” will open on November 16, and last through mid-April at the Museum Center. In addition, HUC-JIR’s Cincinnati campus—which has a unique historical connection to the Dead Sea Scrolls—the Jewish Federation, UC Judaic Studies, and many other institutions will organize complementary exhibits, scholarly lectures and other programming related to the Dead Sea Scrolls.

This new exhibition features the most comprehensive collection of ancient artifacts from Israel ever organized, including one of the largest collections of the priceless 2,000-year-old Dead Sea Scrolls displayed in North America. This exhibition is created by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) from the collections of the Israel National Treasures and produced by Discovery Times Square and The Franklin Institute.

“I am excited that these 2,000year-old biblical manuscripts from the Judean Desert caves will be in Cincinnati. These are some of the most important ancient manuscripts in the world and, with the support of several renowned community partners, they will be exhibited at Cincinnati Museum Center,” said

Brian Jaffee, The Jewish Foundation; Leslie Newman, The Jewish Foundation; Sister Sally Duffy, Sisters of Charity Ministry; Father Tim Schehr, Archdiocese of Cincinnati; Douglass McDonald, Cincinnati Museum Center; Michael R. Oestreicher, The Jewish Foundation; Rabbi Abie Ingber, Xavier University; Dr. Nili Fox, HUC-JIR; Dr. Gila Naveh, UC Judaic Studies Dept.; Rabbi Jonathan Cohen, HUC-JIR; Stephen Torbeck, Mark Woodruff, Kelley O’Brien, Cincinnnati Enquirer

Douglass W. McDonald, president and CEO of Cincinnati Museum Center. “As a young seminarian, I studied these early Jewish and preChristian texts of the Old Testament.

I never expected to personally see these ancient handwritten texts about the ancient Western Civilization.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in our community and another example of partners coming together doing remarkable things which make our city great.”

The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered and unearthed in caves on the northwest shore of the Dead Sea from 1947-1956. Considered among the world’s greatest archaeological discoveries, the Scrolls contain the oldest known copies of the Hebrew Bible. Of the more than 600 objects from the Biblical to Byzantine

Period in Israel, many objects are from recent archaeological excavations in Jerusalem and have never been publicly exhibited. Objects include remains of religious articles, fragments of the Scrolls, weapons of war, stone carvings, textiles and beautiful mosaics, along with everyday household items such as jewelry and ceramics. In addition, the exhibition features a compelling scale recreation of a section of Jerusalem’s Western (or Wailing) Wal—complete with an authentic three-ton stone from the Wall in Israel.

The Cincinnati Community plans to incorporate the exhibit into the “Israel at 65” celebrations, and the UC Judaic Studies Department, which will focus its entire fall Lichter Lecture Series on the Dead Sea Scrolls. In addition, educators

associated with the congregations, Mayerson JCC, Xavier University and a dozen other local Jewish and non-Jewish institutions will come together this month to brainstorm creative ways to both feature and learn about the Dead Sea Scrolls in multiple venues throughout the community. Other local community partners include the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, the Dioceses of Southern Ohio, and SC Ministry Foundation, Office of the Provost.

“The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati is delighted to be the Presenting Sponsor of the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit. This is an excellent opportunity for our community to experience something thoroughly unique,” said Michael R. Oestreicher, president of The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati. “We believe that this exhibit will enrich our community as it showcases these precious artifacts so full of significance in Judeo-Christian tradition.

Dead Sea Scrolls will engage people from many different backgrounds, faiths and cultures.”

Cincinnati has a very special and unique part in the story of the Dead Sea Scrolls which will be highlighted in the exhibition. Hebrew Union College and former president (19471971), Dr. Nelson Glueck, played an important role in the events surrounding the scrolls from the time they were discovered. He lead the charge in recovering scrolls from antiquities dealers and authenticating them. In 1969 he raised $10,000 to produce a photographic security copy of the scrolls, which was stored on the Cincinnati campus in case SCROLLS on page 19

BEST OF JEWISH CINCINNATI SURVEY 2012 V OT E F O R YO U R FAV O R I T E S !

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LOCAL • 3

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

513.774.7856 PROJECTS FOR

Mother-Daughter programming at Sarah’s Place Sarah’s Place invites Jewish moms and daughters to join together for several fun “MotherDaughter” activities this summer.

On Wednesday evening July 25, moms and girls of all ages can join together for a Challah-Baking class in the beautiful Sarah’s Place kitchen. The dynamic young women of NY-based Project S.E.E.D. who are spending the summer in Cincinnati, will be on hand to assist, and this class has the added bonus of a delicious ‘take home’ too! A Mother-Daughter Skate night is scheduled for Weds Aug 1 at Northland Ice Skating.

Lively Jewish music will fill the air and the “SEED girls” will add spirited fun to the evening. Kinneret Pizza will be available for purchase as well! Other opportunities include joint Torah study at the weekly Women’s Partners in Torah, and a crafts night.

C O R R E C T I O N: In the July 12 issue, the article “Planning underway for the 13 Annual Cedar Village Golf Classic,” the caption in the photo had a misspelled name. The names should read Dave Goodman (L) and Bob Frohman (R).

We apologize if this led to any confusion.

BUDGETS

Tub Removal to Tile Shower / Call for Free In Home Estimate David Nedelman & Mark Kaplan, Owners

bathinspirations.com

NEW LOCATION! 700 RACE • CINCINNATI, OH 45202 (513) 241-WISP (9477) www.thebluewisp.com

Mrs. Samuelson and her daughters

JFS approved by Ohio for its Medicare expertise Jewish Family Service has been approved by the State of Ohio as one of only a handful of sites in the Tri-state area to provide Medicare counseling and information; and the only Jewish communal site in Southwestern Ohio. The designation comes from the Ohio Department of Insurance after four Jewish Family Service Aging specialists recently completed certification training by the state’s Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP).

“Jewish Family Service has an experienced staff of professional geriatric case managers to help older adults and their caregivers manage the complex maze of elderly care. Medicare is often confusing to people who are covered

by Medicare, as well as their family and friends who make the inquiring calls on their behalf,” said Ann Sutton Burke, Jewish Family Service Director of Aging and Caregiver Services.

Specifically, the care managers

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can answer questions about Medicare health coverage for seniors and for people under 65 with disabilities; Medicare prescription drug plans; Medicare Advantage Plans (such as HMOs and PPOs); Medicare supplemental insurance; Financial assistance programs for people with limited income; Long-term care insurance; Home health care coverage; and Retiree health plan coverage.

“I am proud that we are certified and now recognized by the State of Ohio as qualified to provide information and assistance for the Medicare program,” said Burke.

Known as Your Experts in Aging, Jewish Family Service care managers cover a broad range of services to strengthen the lives of older adults and their families who are often caregivers.

In addition to the Medicare assistance, Jewish Family Service can assist with Social Security and insurance applications and questions; coordinating in-home serv-

ices; managing bill payments; helping determine appropriate living arrangements; and recognizing early warning signs of medical problems. The social workers are also experienced in long-distance care management; Russian speaking issues; supportive counseling; Holocaust survivor issues; and more.

“Our goal is to help older adults age with dignity and maintain their independence,” said Burke.

“We also are often the eyes and ears for family members in and out of town who are concerned about an elderly parent or grandparent.

With one call, we can reduce the stress adult children and grandchildren often feel when they can’t always be available, or do not know where to begin finding the assistance needed,” she added.

Anyone needing assistance with the Medicare questions or any other aging concerns is invited to contact Jewish Family Service.

On Saturday, August 4, 8:30p-12:30a, The Blue Wisp Jazz Club will present MARBIN-a creative, accessible band made up of wonderful Israeli musicians. Marbin first started in 2007 as an improvised music duo consisting of Israeli-American guitarist Dani Rabin and Israeli saxophonist Danny Markovitch. Markovitch and Rabin met shortly after Markovitch had completed his military service as an infantry sergeant and Rabin had graduated from Berklee College of Music.

Since 2008, Marbin has been living in Chicago and performing all over the United States, playing over 250 shows a year with the accompaniment of drummer Justyn Lawrence and Bassist Ian Stewart.

They have released three albums: Impressions of a City, as part of Paul Wertico’s Mideast-Midwest Alliance, and two under the name Marbin, Marbin as a duo, and Breaking the Cycle with drummer Paul Wertico (Pat Metheny Group), bassist Steve Rodby (Pat Metheny Group), and Jamey Haddad (Paul Simon). Marbin is currently signed to Moonjune Records and Management.

FOR MORE INFO, GO TO WWW.MARBINMUSIC.COM FOR RESERVATIONS CALL 513-241-9477 OR GO TO WWW.THEBLUEWISP.COM

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Chabad Hebrew School students Jake Seide, Zach Reichman, Milan McNulty, Hank Loeb, Jonah Tessel, Rachel Jarad and Lily Zucker, work on their Torah Fair projects.

Chabad. I believe that Jonah’s profound interest in his Jewish education is largely due to Rabbi Cohen’s constant enthusiasm and praise every Sunday. His dedication to his students is an inspira-

tion to Marc and me.

I never thought the day would come that Jonah would wake up and ask me if he had Hebrew School that day, with an overwhelming sense of excitement.”

Cindy Reichman agrees, “This is our fifth year here at Chabad Hebrew School, and it is the fifth year I have gone without my child saying, ‘Do we have to go, it’s boring, just one time can I skip’ Adds Orly Segal, “Once being a kid myself, I wish I had a Hebrew school program like this.

No matter if you were raised Reform, Conservative, or Orthodox we are all one family here at Chabad.”

This is precisely what makes Chabad Hebrew School unique.

With a curriculum that is fun and diverse, covering a wide range of Jewish traditions, heritage, and history, the dynamic program excites children while offering practical relevance to today’s day and age. The teachers bring Jewish traditions to life and share their own love and passion for Judaism, so that students don’t just love to learn about Judaism— they learn to love Judaism!

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

VOL. 158 • NO. 52 THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012 29 TAMMUZ 5772 SHABBAT BEGINS FRIDAY 8:42 PM SHABBAT ENDS SATURDAY 9:43 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 TAYLOR STRONG Assistant Editors ALEXIA KADISH Copy Editor JANET STEINBERG Travel 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 ERIN WYENANDT Office Manager

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Over the past twenty-two years, Chabad Hebrew School has become known as the Hebrew School where children don’t want to miss a day. It is known as a program that instills Jewish pride and creates spiritual connections that last a lifetime. A school where the halls are filled with the sounds of lively discussion, singing, prayer and laughter. Where students enter with a smile and leave humming a Hebrew song. A place where one can tangibly feel the warmth and spirit of Judaism.

Parents have a lot to say about Chabad Hebrew School. Shelly Tessel, a first time Chabad Hebrew School parent this past year, remarked as the school year came to a close, “Walking into Hebrew School the first day, I noticed you are not judged on how observant you are, or on how much Hebrew you know. It is not necessary if you are kosher or if you know your Hebrew name. All that really matters, is we are all Jews.

Jonah has blossomed at

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A hebrew school where children don’t want to miss a day

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ACTout Volunteers will help children in Over-the Rhine get some relief from the oppressive heat.

story inflatable water slide, as well as a smaller water slide, fire hoses and other water activities, a Fire Safety House, pool and carnival games with prizes, free frozen treats from an ice cream truck and tons of other goodies. We hope it will be a day they will never forget. I know it will be for our volunteers!”

The event is being sponsored by ACTout, a program of Access, in partnership with the Cincinnati Police and Fire Departments and the Cincinnati Recreation Commission.

“The Cincinnati Fire Department is honored to work with the Mayerson Foundation, the Cincinnati Police Department and the Cincinnati Recreation Commission on the First Annual Splish Splash event,” says Fire Chief, Richard Braun. “These types of public and private collaborations enrich the lives of children in our community, which is critical to our mission.”

The event will take place in a safe, fenced-in area behind the Lincoln Community Center where volunteers can also park their cars.

More than 100 volunteers are expected to participate in this event.

“I’m really excited to be part of Access’ Splish Splash event,” says Monica Benedikt. “I only recently got involved with Access after starting Medical School at UC and it’s events like this one that get me pumped up. They offer a great way to take a break from studying and it’s always nice being able to meet new people while doing something genuinely good!”

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When most people think of Access, they immediately conjure up images of big “blowout” parties, social events and other special programs designed to help Jewish young professionals connect with one another. However, few people realize that through programs such as its ACTout volunteer initiative, Access is also helping YPs connect with other groups of people in very meaningful and impactful ways as well. In fact, for the past three years, Access participants have come out in force to help make a difference in the lives of people living in Over-the-Rhine (OTR), and on Sunday, August 5th, ACTout volunteers will mount their biggest effort to date by turning the Lincoln Community Center into a full-blown water park for the day to give children and their families a reprieve from the oppressive heat.

Splish Splash Beat the Heat Bash is a free event for children and their families living in OTR, many of whom do not have air conditioning or even fans to help them cool off.

“While we can’t solve the problem, we are going to do our best to offer a little relief from this recordbreaking heat,” says Rachel Plowden, Access Event Coordinator.

“We know that if most of the residents in the neighborhood can’t afford a window unit or room fan, then it’s doubtful they have the means to join a pool, let alone go to a water park,” she adds. “That’s why we’ll be bringing the water park to them, including the Niagara, a three-

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How JYP’s are making a ‘splash’ in OTR

THE AMERICAN ISRAELITE (USPS 019-320) is published weekly for $44 per year and $1.00 per single copy in Cincinnati and $49 per year and $3.00 per single copy elsewhere in U.S. by The American Israelite Co. 18 West Ninth Street, Suite 2, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-2037. Periodicals postage paid at Cincinnati, OH. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THE AMERICAN ISRAELITE, 18 West Ninth Street, Suite 2, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-2037.

The views and opinions expressed by the columnists of The American Israelite do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the newspaper.

NATIONAL • 5

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

National Briefs Jack Abramoff gets radio show (JTA)—Jack Abramoff, the lobbyist who served a jail term for defrauding Native American tribes, is now a radio talk-show host. Abramoff’s show airs Sunday evenings on XM Satellite Radio.

Abramoff, who pleaded guilty in 2006 to felony counts involving fraud, corruption and conspiracy, served 3 1/2 years at a minimum security prison camp in Cumberland, Md. Following his release, he worked at a Baltimore kosher pizza eatery and lived in a nearby halfway house.

His book, “Capitol Punishment,” which focuses on the culture of corruption in Washington, was published last year. In 2010, Abramoff's story was the subject of the movie “Casino Jack,” which starred Kevin Spacey.

Prior to his downfall, Abramoff ran two kosher eateries in Washington and established a Jewish school.

“I support myself by public speaking and trying to work on as many appropriate and legitimate ventures as I can,” he told The Washington Post.

“Every dollar I make and virtually every dollar I spend is supervised, and they take a hefty chunk,” said Abramoff, who owes millions in restitution.

UC-Berkeley Jewish students file civil rights complaint (JTA)—Attorneys for two Jewish UC-Berkeley graduate students alleging verbal and physical assault by Muslim students have filed a federal civil rights complaint against the university.

The federal complaint alleges that “Jewish students have been subjected to a pervasive hostile environment and that the university has failed to take effective measure to cure the situation,” according to the Oakland Tribune.

The students dropped a lawsuit that alleged the same charges.

“We filed because once the plaintiffs in the lawsuit graduated, we lost the ability to affect changes to correct the hostile environment,” Neal Sher, one of the attorneys, told the newspaper.

Sher and attorney Joel Siegal filed the complaint Monday with the U.S. Justice Department and U.S. Department of Education against UC Berkeley on behalf of graduates Jessica Felber and Brian Maissy.

Ethics inquiry may hurt rise to Senate for Rep. Shelley Berkley, a pro-Israel stalwart

By Ron Kampeas Jewish Telegraphic Agency WASHINGTON (JTA)— When Rep. Shelley Berkley pitched her bid for the U.S. Senate to pro-Israel donors, the Nevada Democrat reportedly told them it came down to math.

In the U.S. House of Representatives, the leading proIsrael lawmaker said, she was one of 435. In the Senate she’d be one of 100.

Now backers of the Jewish congresswoman are nervously crunching different figures: Her odds of winning in the wake of the formal launch of a House ethics inquiry.

The investigation launched July 9, and backed by Democrats and Republicans on the committee, will focus on allegations that Berkley's championing of kidney care benefited her husband, Larry Lehrner, a leading kidney specialist in Nevada.

The inquiry arises from revelations in a New York Times report last year which found, among other perceived conflicts, that her successful efforts to block a federal bid to close a kidney transplant center saved part of a practice coowned by her husband.

Berkley's office said she was “pleased with the committee’s decision to conduct a full and fair investigation, which will ensure all the facts are reviewed.”

Those close to Berkley say the campaign dreads the fodder this gives Berkley’s opponent, Sen. Dean Heller (R-Nev.), who can now run ads beginning, as one insider put it, “Shelley Berkley, comma, under an ethics investigation, comma.”

Republicans have yet to mount ads citing the inquiry, but the National Republican Senatorial Committee made clear the day it was announced that the probe would be an issue.

“Nevadans deserve someone in the Senate who they can trust to work on their behalf and not someone—like Ms. Berkley— who puts her own financial and political interests first,” the GOP group said.

The inquiry is not likely to be resolved before the November election, although Berkley has said she hopes for a speedy resolution. Heller had been appointed to the Senate in 2011 after Sen. John Ensign, also a Republican, resigned in a scandal over alleged favors for a former lover and her husband. Polls before news of the ethics inquiry had Heller and Berkley in a virtual dead heat.

Pro-Israel groups say the loss of Berkley, a stalwart on the cusp of her possible elevation to the

Rep. Shelley Berkley official Twitter page

Rep. Shelley Berkley, center, attending an event at McCarran Airport in Las Vegas, June 13, 2012.

Senate, would be a blow.

“There are many members of Congress who support Israel because they think it is the right thing to do,” said Morton Klein, the president of the Zionist Organization of America, a group that often has hosted Berkley. “But few feel their commitment to Israel from the heart as Shelley Berkley does. She does not simply do

what’s good for U.S-Israel relations, she does it with extraordinary sincerity and deep commitment.”

Berkley has faced the charges head on, saying that according to congressional ethics standards, benefits to constituents mitigate personal benefits for lawmakers. In her first ad after the inquiry's launch, Berkley alluded to the charges in a pivot against Heller’s vote to restrain funding for Medicare.

“The Las Vegas Sun says Berkley’s ‘advocacy wasn’t driven for personal gain, it was aimed at helping Nevadans,’ ” the ad says. “And Dean Heller? Heller voted twice to end Medicare as we know it.”

Ben Chouake, who heads NORPAC, a leading pro-Israel political action committee backing Berkley, said she never hid her husband’s interest in keeping the kidney transplant center open.

“She did her job,” Chouake said, noting that the entire state delegation -- Republican and Democratic, and including Heller—backed keeping the transplant center in state. “She's not hiding the fact that her husband is a nephrologist. She’s always saying, ‘My husband Larry, the nephrologist.”

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Seeking kin: A fateful encounter at sea

By Hillel Kuttler Jewish Telegraphic Agency BALTIMORE (JTA) — The Israeli cargo ship Yuvali pushed off from Eilat in the spring of 1977 on what shaped up to be a standard journey to Singapore, Taiwan and Japan.

“Sailing was good, and there was nice, calm weather,” Frane Fingust, the ship’s chief engineer, said recently.

In east Asia, the vessel slid around the Strait of Mallaca and entered the South China Sea. Just past breakfast on June 10 of that year, along Vietnam’s coast, Yuvali’s crew spotted a fishing boat sporting SOS banners reading “FOOD” and “WATER.” The Yuvali negotiated a hard-toexecute turn as crew members quickly gathered food items for the fishermen: rice, vegetables, fruit, powdered milk and jugs of water.

As the Yuvali pulled alongside, Fingust could see a woman clutching her baby. A few at a time, others joined her on deck, 66 people in all.

The occupants were not fishermen but Vietnamese refugees fleeing Communist rule in their postwar homeland. They were helped on board, and the Yuvali continued on to Kachsiung, Taiwan. The Yuvali’s crew was assured that from Taiwan

Cuong “Jimmy” Nguyen Tuan

Cuong “Jimmy” Nguyen Tuan, a Vietnamese Israeli, believes that he and 65 others would have died at sea had an Israeli cargo ship not rescued them in 1977.

the refugees would be flown to new lives in Israel – and so they were.

Fingust, 75 and retired from a 45-year career working aboard cargo ships, wishes to reconnect both with the former refugees and his Yuvali crewmates. Fingust, who divides his time now between his native Split, Croatia, and Canada’s British Columbia, doesn’t know the names of any of the Vietnamese. He recalls, however,

names of some of his Yuvali mates: Avram Erez, Efraim Markowitz, Uri Isner, Avram Kohen, Alex Munch and Alex Weisfeld.

Fingust had attempted in vain to reach the former group through the daughter of a Vietnamese refugee who had escaped on another ship and also settled in Israel. Through that Tel Aviv woman, “Seeking Kin” established contact with one of the people rescued by the Yuvali,

Cuong “Jimmy” Nguyen Tuan, and is attempting to reunite him with Fingust. At this writing, Fingust was away on a three-week fishing trip in Croatia and could not be reached.

In an earlier email, Fingust described seeing the handmade signs on the rickety fishing boat, which was “the moment that our captain decided to take [the refugees] on our ship and give them any assistance they might need,” he said. “You can imagine our surprise! How was it possible to accommodate 66 people inside that small fishing boat, nine meters [30 feet] long? It must have been packed. They must have been sitting one on the other.”

Nguyen Tuan was 18 when he fled Saigon with his parents, two sisters and brother-in-law. After four or five days at sea, they had seen several ships pass without stopping.

Hope was nearly lost. Then the Yuvali arrived.

“If we had [waited] another day, we would have been finished,” Nguyen Tuan, now 53, said last week from Israel. “We didn’t know [Yuvali] was an Israeli ship. We saw that it went ahead. We were so happy when we saw it come back.

They took us on the ship. I heard from my brother-in-law that it was an Israeli ship going to Taiwan.”

The Vietnamese were refused entry at Hong Kong and Taiwanese

ports. Nguyen Tuan subsequently learned that the ship’s captain spoke with Israeli authorities, who secured Prime Minister Menachem Begin’s approval to provide refuge and Israeli citizenship to the 66. With the refugees bearing Israeli papers, Taiwan relented. After a few days in Taiwan, the group flew to Israel.

Yehuda Avner, who served then as an adviser to Begin, was dispatched to welcome the Vietnamese at Ben-Gurion Airport. “I said to them in English, ‘I’m here on behalf of Prime Minister Menachem Begin and on behalf of the government of Israel. You are welcome. You are not strangers in our midst.’ I used those exact words,” said Avner, reached on his Jerusalem balcony. “I thought [they looked] rather confused. They were happy, but obviously we had no language in common. What did they know of Israel?”

The incident remains one of the Jewish state’s proudest moments. On June 20, 1977, Begin had announced his decision in a speech to the Knesset. All told, the Yuvali and other ships rescued 179 Vietnamese “boat people” who were granted citizenship and settled in Israel. According to Haifa’s National Maritime Museum, Begin soon thereafter sent a letter to the Yuvali’s owners.

SEEKING on page 21

For Crypto-Jews of New Mexico, art is a window into secret life

By Edmon J. Rodman Jewish Telegraphic Agency LOS ANGELES (JTA)—Artist Anita Rodriguez’s “aha” moment came after reading “To the End of the Earth: A History of the CryptoJews of New Mexico.”

The 2005 book by New Mexico’s former state historian, Stanley Hordes, tells the story of the Southwest’s Converso settlers and the elements of their Sephardic heritage—among them lighting candles on Friday night and refraining from eating pork—that were passed down over 500 years.

It suddenly dawned on Rodriguez, a Catholic from Taos whose family has lived in New Mexico for 10 generations, that her neighbors may have been reticent to talk about religion because of secret family histories.

“Growing up in Taos, I quickly learned that it was taboo to ask people about their religion,” she told JTA. Rodriguez is one of several artists planning to exhibit CryptoJewish-themed paintings and folk art at the conference of the Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies to be held July 22-24 in Albuquerque.

Among the featured speakers will be historian David Gitlitz, author of “Secrecy and Deceit: The Religion of Crypto-Jews,” and Santa Fe educator Isabelle Medina

Anita Rodriguez

A crypto-Jewish secret wedding by Anita Rodriguez.

Sandoval, author of “Hidden Shabbat: The Secret Lives of Crypto-Jews.”

“Artwork makes people want to know more about their own identity,” said Dolores Sloan, president of the society, which helped obtain grants to bring artists to the conference.

The gathering, which will include a genealogy workshop, is part of a continuing effort to reveal the stories of those who may have had a hidden Jewish past. A recent

genetic survey published in the Journal of Human Genetics revealed new DNA evidence that Spanish Americans of the Southwest likely had Jews in their family trees. The Crypto-Jews of New Mexico are said to be descendants of Sephardic Jews who were forced to convert during the Spanish Inquisition.

After reading Hordes’ book and researching Jewish life, Rodriguez began painting Southwestern and Mexican-influenced scenes of the

secret Jewish lives that she imagined her neighbors’ ancestors had practiced.

Among the works she will bring to the conference is a large pink, turquoise and royal blue painting influenced by Mexican Day of the Dead art, depicting a Jewish wedding scene in which the groom, bride and wedding party are all ghostly skeletons.

Another one, titled “Hora,” shows skeletons dancing around a Jewish bride on a raised chair.

“These could be ancestors who come back on the day of the dead and act out scenes from their lives,” Rodriguez said.

In another work she calls “nichos,” a takeoff on a traditional Latin American form of folk art, Rodriguez uses painted wooden boxes created from kiln-dried wood. Painted in a folk art style with brightly colored acrylic paint, the boxes, which have two hinged doors, reveal what she sees as the duality of the Crypto-Jewish life.

For example, on one nicho, a Christmas Eve scene is shown with people streaming in to the village church. Open the box’s doors and painted on the inside is a skeletal Jewish family seated at table with a lit menorah.

“There are some truths that can only be spoken in the voice of art,” Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez says that when she

shows her work in New Mexico, some people have whispered in her ear things like, “I need to talk, but can’t meet you downtown.” One person, the artist says, told her that after seeing her work he spent a night sneaking through a graveyard looking for signs of Crypto-Jewish heritage on his ancestor’s headstones.

“I have had close friends who have made the discovery,” Rodriguez said. “Some are furious because they were lied to; some even go back to Judaism.”

In researching her own family history, Rodriguez discovered that the name Rodriguez appears frequently on lists of surnames of families forced to convert. She hasn’t taken the low-cost genetic test now available that could cast light on her ethnic heritage.

Diana Bryer, another New Mexico artist exhibiting at the upcoming conference—her work depicts secret Sephardic symbols like six-pointed roses and families holding secret seders—says she has had moments of recognition, too.

“One person came over to me and said, ‘I think I have Jewish roots. There are things in here that my family did,’ ” said Bryer, who comes from an Ashkenazi Jewish background. “People have feelings, and those feelings should be acknowledged.”

NATIONAL • 7

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

$70 billion on, Claims Conf. marks 60 years of reparations from Germany

By Uriel Heilman Jewish Telegraphic Agency

R-Mission

(L-R) R-Mission members Robin Burger, Roni Bibring, and Yonina Teitelbaum at inaugural event on June 3, 2012.

In a new network, Jewish cancer survivors are finding the understanding they need

By Charlotte Anthony Jewish Telegraphic Agency NEW YORK (JTA) — Roni Bibring was 15 when she was diagnosed with leukemia. Four years later, her treatment completed, she says her biggest challenge — having lost touch with many of her friends — is making new friends who understand what she’s been through.

“Most people don’t even realize that they’ve completely lost touch with you and that’s the thing you need the most,” said Bibring, of Englewood, N.J. “They think because you don’t text them every day that you don’t want them in your life, but you might not even be conscious,” adding that “You could be asleep for days in a row.”

Through R-Mission, a support network for Jewish cancer survivors that held its inaugural event in New York last month, Bibring is finding people who do understand.

“I have a lot of scars, and they would never judge me for it because they probably have similar things on their body, too,” said Bibring. “Just not having to be judged and to have friends that understand why you look a certain way is the best part.”

Cheryl Greenberger said her work as a psychologist at Chai Lifeline, which provides support and a camp for Jewish children with life-threatening illnesses, spurred her to create R-Mission — as in remission — as a Chai Lifeline program.

“What people were asking for and looking for was a way to connect with other people who could relate to them and understand them in a way that even close family members and close friends couldn’t relate to them,” Greenberger said.

The group’s website includes a discussion forum open only to those

who have registered, as well as a resource section with links to everything from cancer research foundations to support groups to organizations that give scholarships to young people who have had cancer.

Although events will be held in New York, Greenberg points out that the discussion forum can reach a global audience. More than 100 people already have registered, many of them from outside the United States.

An online community, she says, gives “people the opportunity to really be open and honest with the questions they had without publicly announcing themselves.”

Bibring says she is glad to meet people who have had experiences similar to hers.

“All of us went through the same thing,” she said. “They understand what you are going through and they are not going to ditch you. They are there for you when you aren't feeling well.”

Melanie Kwestel, Chai Lifeline’s director of communications, anticipates that R-Mission will draw its initial members from Chai Lifeline. But she says the goal “is to reach people of all types of cancer beyond just pediatric cancer, and with online advertising we can reach a bigger audience.”

For now, the majority of those involved in R-Mission are Orthodox, but through online advertising and word of mouth, officials hope to reach Jews across the denominations.

David Pelcovitz, a professor of psychology and education at Yeshiva University’s Azrieli Graduate School and a member of the R-Mission advisory committee, said a stigma long surrounded cancer. In Yiddish, cancer was referred to as “yenem machla,” an affliction from the other world.

WASHINGTON (JTA) — When representatives of Israel, Germany and the newly created Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany met 60 years ago in Europe to hammer out a reparations agreement for the crimes of Nazi Germany, some Holocaust survivors were still living in Displaced Persons camps on the continent.

The mood at the negotiating table was solemn, recalled Saul Kagan, 89, who participated in the negotiations and went on to lead the Claims Conference for more than four decades.

“There were no handshakes, there was no banter or anything else,” Kagan said in a video message Tuesday evening at an event at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum here marking the 60th anniversary of the first reparations agreement.

“We somehow had the feeling that we were not alone in this room,” he said. “Somehow we felt that the spirits of those who couldn’t be there were there with us.”

Six decades on, much has followed from that first document signed in 1952, known as the Luxembourg Agreement.

Germany has paid the equivalent of more than $70 billion to survivors and programs that aid survivors. Israel and Germany have become close allies. Germany has made Holocaust education a centerpiece of its identity, creating school curricula, building Holocaust museums and funding antiSemitism eradication programs.

This week, Germany took the additional step of changing its funding criteria to add an estimated 80,000 more Nazi victims to those it provides with one-time payments of about $3,150 from the Hardship Fund, which is designated for Jews who fled the Nazis as they swept eastward through Europe.The change, which is expected to affect mostly survivors in Russia and Ukraine, opens the door to funding for the last major group of Nazi victims who have never received money from Germany.

Claims Conference representatives hailed the move as a historic breakthrough.

“This agreement ensures that virtually every Holocaust survivor will be covered,” Stuart Eizenstat, a former U.S. undersecretary of state who represents the Claims Conference in negotiations with the Germans over Holocaust restitution, told JTA. “It’s really a major upgrading of the whole relationship. It’s the first time since 1952 that Germany has negotiated a new agreement.”

Marty Katz

Speaking at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, Werner Gatzer, state secretary of the German Finance Ministry, said negotiations with the Claims Conference over Holocaust restitution are marked by a “spirit of cooperation and trust,” July 10, 2012.

In his speech at the anniversary event, Eizenstat said that “It is a testimony to Germany that we are now negotiating with a third generation of German leaders after World War II, supported by the German people, that have acknowledged their historical responsibility to the Jewish people.”

In addition to agreeing to expand the Hardship Fund to exSoviet countries that are not in the European Union, Germany agreed to equalize the monthly pensions it sends to some 60,000 survivors around the world, correcting what until now had been a disparity that saw survivors living in western countries receiving more than those in eastern countries. All survivors will now receive the equivalent of approximately $370 per month.

Germany also agreed to relax the eligibility rules for those who receive restitution payments for being forced into hiding during the Nazi era. Until now, only those who went into hiding for at least 12 months were eligible; now the eligibility threshold will be six months.

Together, the changes are expected to cost Germany an additional $300 million.

“The German government is assuming even greater responsibility than before,” said Werner Gatzer, who as state secretary of the German Finance Ministry represents Germany in negotiations with the Claims Conference.

Gatzer made his remarks in a speech Tuesday night at the 60th anniversary event. “This process is about much more than just financial compensation. It’s about the recognition of all these individual, personal destinies that need to be heard and preserved.”

Gatzer said a “spirit of cooperation and trust” guides the negotiations process.

“It’s amazing that we’ve been able to get payment for tens of

thousands of the poorest Jews on the planet,” Greg Schneider, the executive vice president of the Claims Conference, told JTA. “It’s an acknowledgement of their suffering at the hands of the Nazis decades ago.”

While the Claims Conference administers Germany’s restitution programs, it also makes allocations of its own from the so-called Successor Organization, which is the legal beneficiary of money from the sale of Jewish-owned properties in the former East Germany for which no heirs have come forward.

On Wednesday, the Claims Conference board approved $136 million in allocations from the Successor Organization for each of the next two fiscal years. The bulk of the money will go to programs that aid survivors, including home care, soup kitchens, meals on wheels and medical assistance programs. Slightly less than $18 million per year will go toward Holocaust education.

The board also voted to create a Goodwill Fund of approximately $61 million for heirs of former East German properties who missed previous deadlines for making claims on those properties.

This year’s Claims Conference board meeting represented something of a high point for the organization. For the first time in three years, the meeting was not overshadowed by talk of the massive fraud that was discovered at the conference in late 2009. The $57 million fraud figure has not grown in recent months, and 12 of 31 people arrested in connection with the case have pleaded guilty.

Because it was the 60th anniversary of the first restitution agreement, the board meeting was moved to Washington from its usual location in New York, and the event at the Holocaust museum amounted to something of a somber celebration.

8 • NATIONAL

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Israel’s Chief Rabbinate facing new wave of criticism and calls for change

By Neil Rubin Jewish Telegraphic Agency WASHINGTON (JTA) — The latest battle over religious pluralism in Israel has unleashed a new barrage of criticism and calls for reform aimed at the Orthodoxcontrolled Israeli Chief Rabbinate.

Unlike major flare-ups in past decades, however, this time it’s not just the Reform and Conservative movements leading the charge — mainstream, consensus-oriented Jewish groups with no denominational affiliations are speaking out, too.

One flashpoint has been the fallout from the Israeli attorney general’s decision to approve government funding for Reform and Conservative religious leaders as “rabbis of non-Orthodox communities”—albeit through the Ministry of Culture and Sports rather than the Orthodox-controlled Religious Services Ministry, which funds Orthodox rabbis.

That announcement drew a caustic response from Sephardi Chief Rabbi Shlomo Amar, who in a June 27 meeting urged more than 100 fellow Orthodox rabbis— including Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger — to pray “in order to stop the destroyers and saboteurs of Judaism [because] they are trying to uproot the foundation of Judaism,” according to Ynet.

“There is a natural backlash on the part of American Jews and American Jewish leaders when the Chief Rabbinate issues such statements,” said Steven Bayme, director of the American Jewish Committee’s Koppelman Institute on American Jewish-Israeli Relations. “As we enter the 21st century, the [Chief Rabbinate] needs to be reevaluted in terms of democratic norms and modern Israel’s relationship to world Jewry.”

In response to Amar’s remarks, about 50 Reform and Conservative rabbis protested outside of the Chief Rabbinate’s building in Jerusalem. Two Conservative rabbis filed a police complaint accusing Amar of incitement —a particularly serious claim in Israel ever since the 1995 assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.

The Jewish Federations of North America, which has leaders from across the religious spectrum, but a group that in recent years has become more vocal on behalf of Israel’s non-Orthodox Jews — was quick to respond.

“It is a fundamental Jewish virtue to ‘love your fellow as yourself.’ We condemn comments that disparage fellow Jews and, in particular, well-established branches of Judaism that represent 80 percent of North American Jewry,” Jerry Silverman, the president and CEO of JFNA, said in a statement.

“Statements such as those made by Rabbi Amar only serve to alienate our fellow Jews from our religion, our people and the Jewish state.”

Shortly after that controversy, the board of governors of the AJC —another nonsectarian Jewish organization with no formal ties to either the Reform or Conservative movements — went even further in criticizing the Chief Rabbinate and calling for major changes to the institution.

“In the 21st century, a coercive Chief Rabbinate has become, at best, an anachronism, and at worst a force dividing the Jewish people,” the AJC’s leaders declared in a resolution.

The Chief Rabbinate’s actions “threaten to divide the Jewish people and risk an anti-religious backlash against Judaism itself within the Jewish state,” they wrote. The AJC even urged Israel’s government “to undertake promptly all needed actions” to end the Chief Rabbinate’s monopoly over issues of personal status.

The latest wave of criticism comes amid a backdrop of religion-related controversies — tensions between Modern Orthodox rabbis and haredi Orthodox rabbis over conversions; the push for civil marriage in Israel; and the struggle over whether haredi Orthodox men should serve in the military or continue to be exempt to study in yeshivas.

Rushing to preserve Ladino legacies

By Charlotte Anthony Jewish Telegraphic Agency NEW YORK (JTA) — Isaac Azose knew he had a treasure in his hands — a nearly century-old booklet for Ladino-speaking Jews immigrating to the United States that featured English, Ladino and Yiddish expressions to help them acculturate into their new communities.

“I thought to myself, I’ve got a real find here,” said Azose, the cantor at Congregation Ezra Bessaroth in Seattle, Wash., whose family came from Turkey.

So he became one of many people in Seattle to share a Ladino artifact with Devin Naar, an assistant professor in Jewish studies at the University of Washington who is trying to uncover, collect, preserve and digitize the rich heritage of Sephardi Jews.

While small collections of Ladino books and documents can be found at the Library of Congress, the American Sephardi Federation and Yeshiva University, Naar says his project, the Seattle Sephardic Treasures, is the first communitybased initiative to gather Ladino source materials in one place.

“More than 10,000 Yiddish

Andrea Soroko

Dr. Devin Naar, left, and community member Rick LaMarche, examining Ladino documents at the Purim Bazaar at Congregation Ezra Bessaroth in Seattle, Wash., March 2012.

books are readily accessible and digitized through the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Mass., but no equivalent exists for Ladino and virtually no original Ladino books can be accessed online,” said Naar, whose effort is part of the larger Sephardic Studies Initiative of the University of Washington's Stroum

Jewish Studies Program.

Ladino, also known as JudeoSpanish, was the language of Sephardi Jews whose ancestors were expelled from Spain in 1492 and then settled throughout the Mediterranean basin of the Ottoman Empire.

LEGACIES on page 20

YouTube

The Chasidic boy band The Shepsalach performing “Rabbi,” its cover of the Justin Bieber song “Baby.”

Rise of the Jewish Biebers, ScarJo’s blockbuster deal, don't call Mac Miller ‘maybe’

By Staff Six Degrees No Bacon NEW YORK (6NoBacon) — This has been the week of the Jewish Justin Biebers.

At first it was Edon Pinchot, the 14-year-old, yarmulke-wearing Chicagoan on “America’s Got Talent” whose impressive vocal abilities earned him a spot in the reality show’s semifinals (not THAT impressive when it turns out that 48 contestants make it to the semifinals, but still) with a rendition of David Guetta's song “Titanium.” The judges lauded Pinchot’s pitch-perfect performance; Howie Mandel asked Pinchot if he received the same standing ovation at his bar mitzvah and also exclaimed “Jew are terrific!”

Pinchot will compete for the finals in the next few weeks, and even his Twitter has been “Bieberized” climbing from some 60 followers last week to nearly 2,000 now.

But that's not all. A new cover to the Bieber hit “Baby” — with an Orthodox Jewish twist—was released. “Rabbi,” by the Chasidic boy band The Shepsalach (“little sheep” in Yiddish) features young children praising their rebbe with the catchy chorus “rebbe, rebbe, rebbe, oh.” The man behind the kosher version is Yuval Nobelman, an Israeli filmmaker and a member of a rather creative family.

Guns N’ Roses’ rocking “Hatikvah’ Israeli fans of Guns N' Roses were delighted to see the band on stage in Tel Aviv last week. While guitarist Slash wasn’t around —he no longer performs with the band that hit it big in the early 1990s — current guitarist Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal, aka Ronald Jay Blumenthal, had a surprise for the crowd prior to the song “Don't Cry”: Bumblefoot began with a special rendition of Israel’s national anthem, “Hatikvah.” It may not have been Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock, but the crowd still went wild.

Sacha Baron Cohen visits grandma in Israel Another visitor to Israel was Sacha Baron Cohen, who took his wife and daughters to see his beloved grandmother Lizel Wizer.

She’s 97 and living in a residential home; she’s also an exercise instructor with more than 75 years of experience. Baron Cohen was born to an Orthodox Jewish family in London, and his mother is a sabra. The comic actor speaks Hebrew, as you could probably tell if you saw “Borat” or “The Dictator.”

Scarlet Johansson's record film deal Scarlett Johansson has signed on to reprise her role as the Black Widow in the sesquel to the superhero blockbuster “The Avengers” — and set a record while inking the contract. The deal is expected to earn Johannson $20 million, topping the mark for most earned for a film by a woman in Hollywood — reportedly $19 million by Angelina Jolie for “The Tourist.”

Mac Miller doesn't get Adam Levine’s humor You can’t really escape Carly Rae Jespen's hit song “Call Me Maybe” It's the ultimate summer hit — simple, upbeat and catchy. The lyrics, most notably the chorus (“Hey, I just met you, And this is crazy, But here’s my number, So call me, maybe?”), has spurred hundreds of Internet parodies, from mixes of Obama’s speeches to an actual version sung by Cookie Monster of “Sesame Street” (my particular favorite).

Adam Levine of Maroon 5 and NBC’s “The Voice” commented on the song by tweeting a fairly old joke about it (in Internet terms, of course): “Why does she want him to call her Maybe? Carly is a lovely name.”

While most of the online world read the tweet and perhaps tittered or teheed, the Jewish rapper Mac Miller apparently assumed that Levine didn’t actually understand the song because he tweeted, “she’s saying maybe call her.” The Internet community's response? SMH (shake my head).

INTERNATIONAL • 9

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

International Briefs Italy to fight anti-Semitism in cyberspace ROME (JTA) – The Italian government plans to introduce new legislation to beef up measures countering anti-Semitism and hate speech in cyberspace.

Integration Minister Andrea Riccardi told Jewish leaders at Rome’s main synagogue during a meeting Monday that he was working with the country’s justice and interior ministers to “give a clear response to those who disseminate hatred via the Internet.”

Riccardi said he planned to introduce measures that could allow the postal police to block racist websites and also target regular visitors “to these shameful web pages.”

The increase in the number of websites with racist, xenophobic and anti-Semitic content, he said, “requires the government to update the measures currently in force.”

The government, Riccardi said, wanted to send “a strong message: We want to intervene.

We have this responsibility, particularly after the attack in Toulouse.” He was referring to the terror attacks in France in March that killed three students and a teacher at a Jewish school and also two Muslim soldiers.

“You can’t just cry after every massacre and then forget the tears,” he said during the roundtable discussion. “Tears have to become concrete commitments to fight against the sowers of hatred.”

At the same meeting, Rome Jewish Community President Riccardo Pacifici called on Parliament to take steps to pass a law banning Holocaust denial.

Racism scandal dogs Australia’s only Jewish Olympic athlete SYDNEY, Australia (JTA)—The only Jewish athlete on Australia’s Olympic team unwittingly has been drawn into a racism scandal on the eve of the London Games.

Steven Solomon, 19, of Sydney, was selected to represent Australia in the 400-meter race ahead of John Steffensen, a 29year-old Australian of South African descent, who defeated Solomon at the Olympic trials earlier this year, though neither had the needed qualifying time.

But Solomon won the bronze medal at the World Junior Athletics Championships in Barcelona last weekend with a personal best time and anchored the 4x400-meter relay team to fourth place, prompting Athletics Australia officials to call him their “rising star.”

Jewish community leader in Tunisia tries to maintain strong ties with post-revolution gov’t

By Kouichi Shirayanagi Jewish Telegraphic Agency TUNIS (JTA) — Sitting beside his collection of Tunisian menorahs, spice boxes and jewelry, with Danish Impressionist paintings on the walls, Roger Bismuth was recalling his days as a Nazi slave laborer — and the dramatic change in his life since that time.

Bismuth said that between November 1942 and May 1943, he built bunkers and harbors for the Nazis in the nearby port of La Goulette, a suburb of Tunis. He had left school in 1940 at age 14 to become a construction worker.

“The Germans knew I was Jewish. The major who was in charge of building the bunkers was a nice man — he would pick me up every morning and take me to work,” Bismuth, 86, remembers.

After the war, Bismuth worked for the French building barracks for the colonial soldiers stationed in his port city. At the same time, he was active in the Tunisian independence movement against the continued French colonization of Tunisia..

A product of an almost-lost era, when most Jews living in metropolitan Tunis became doctors, lawyers and businessmen while those on the island of Djerba studied to be rabbis, Bismuth amassed

Kouichi Shirayanagi

Roger Bismuth, president of Tunisia's Jewish community.

his wealth by developing a major product distribution conglomerate that distributes food, electronic and cosmetic products, including L’Oreal, across North Africa. He also is president of the Jewish Community of Tunisia.

After spending decades developing a good relationship with Tunisia’s old government, which he served as a member of parliament, he hopes to build a strong relationship with the new Islamistleaning government of his small North African country, keeping the aging Jewish community from further decline.

Tunisia at the time of Bismuth's birth had more than 100,000 Jews. Today there are fewer than 2,000 Jews in the country, and many of them are elderly.

According to historians, Tunisia has had a continuous Jewish presence for more than 2,600 years.

When Tunisia was a French colony, the Tunisian Jewish Community Council was a government within a government – operating its own court, issuing marriage licenses and overseeing education for the Jews. Following the North African nation’s independence in 1956, Tunisia’s first

president, Habib Bourguiba, dissolved the council and created a new organization with a dramatically altered the role.

Most of the country’s Jews live on Djerba, which always has maintained a separate organized Jewish community from the mainland. Thus the majority of Tunisia’s Jews don’t use the services of the Tunisian Jewish Community; Bismuth has been its president since 1996.

“There is no poor Jewish person in the street, we look after everyone, no one goes hungry,” he said.Elderly Jews are provided with visits from the doctor, given food, clothes and assistance no matter where they live in greater Tunis, Sousse or Sfax.

The community worked to build the Center for Aging People in La Goulette, which provides kosher food and assisted living to 20-25 residents. A 12-person staff of doctors, nurses, cooks and medical specialists provides roundthe-clock care for the residents.

The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee once provided half the operating costs for the center but with funding from abroad reduced, Bismuth says the Tunisian Jewish community works diligently to get by.

Bismuth maintains ties with the World Jewish Congress and American Jewish Committee.

London Jewish community, already vigilant, is advised to beef up security for Olympics

By Miriam Shaviv Jewish Telegraphic Agency LONDON (JTA—Typically on high alert, London’s Jewish community organizations are being advised to take additional security measures during the Olympics.

The Community Security Trust, the charity that represents and recommends the community on matters of security, has told Jewish groups to implement or increase patrols around their buildings. CST’s guidelines also remind community groups of basic security steps such as questioning visitors to community buildings, not congregating outside and ensuring that all security equipment is working.

“We are not aware of any specific threats related to the Jewish community,” emphasized Dave Rich, the CST’s deputy director of communications. “This is the normal kind of advice we would give to people when there are high-profile events taking place in London.

There might be some anti-Israel demonstrations, but we are not

expecting massive disruptions.”

The London Jewish community’s security infrastructure already is highly developed, with guards posted outside nearly every synagogue, school and community building. Additionally, CSTtrained volunteers help to secure major community events.

Among the concerns is that the high volume of overseas visitors expected at Jewish community venues during the Games will present a security challenge. In addition, the security alert for the entire city may be raised.

“There is no doubt that the Jewish community needs to be vigilant, but there is nothing new in that,” said Hagai Segal, a lecturer at New York University in London and a consultant on Middle Eastern affairs and terrorism. "There is no evidence of any specific targeting of the Jewish community or of terror attacks being planned in general, either.”

Pointing to the general security operation in London that is “unprecedented in British history,” he said, “When the country is

better protected, the Jewish community is better protected, too.”

In the absence of a specific threat, Segal added, the Jewish community has no need to increase its security arrangements significantly, as they are already so extensive.

“The community has had to get used to having patrols around synagogues and a system for the reporting of anti-Semitism, and it is recognized as having one of the best community security systems anywhere," he said. "The London Metropolitan Police actually uses the CST as an example of efficient community policing. The community is expert in this area, which ensures that when there are special events in the city, they don't have to do much more.”

Similarly, he said, London as a whole had been operating at the highest or second-highest level of threat assessment since the subway and bus bombings on July 7, 2005, and is also accustomed to extensive counterterror measures.

“A lot has been learned since 7/7. The UK has become very good at counterterrorism,” Segal said.

Meanwhile, the details regarding security for the Israeli delegation to the Olympics are being closely guarded.

Efraim Zinger, secretary-general of the Israeli Olympic Committee and head of the Israeli Olympic delegation, would confirm only that the British were responsible for the team’s security and that the delegation would not be housed in a separate building in the Olympic Village.

“We are closely following the security measures taken by the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games and by the British government,” Ziniger said. “We really appreciate the enormous effort and money that is being invested.

They know how to do this work and we trust them.”

He acknowledged that a large event like the Olympics was “naturally very attractive for the bad guys,” but said that the threat was not just to Israel, as the British and Americans could be targeted as well.

SECURITY on page 20

10 • INTERNATIONAL / ISRAEL

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Circumcision ruling inspires defense, debate in Germany

By Toby Axelrod Jewish Telegraphic Agency BERLIN (JTA)—Say yes to circumcision.

That’s the message of a petition that three German students have created at change.org.

Directed toward the German government, the petition comes in light of a recent Cologne District Court ruling that found that nonmedical circumcision of a minor is a criminal act. Although the ruling does not apply to other districts, it has had a chilling effect, with hospitals in Berlin turning away parents until legal clarity has been reached.

“We are young people and we were shocked because of the new law,” Michael Groys, 21, one of two Jewish students who created the petition with a Muslim friend, told JTA. “We thought we have to say something to the government, and so we thought this is the best way to do it.”

The petition reads in part: “Circumcision was and is a central element of our religions, and a

covenant with God, which has been fulfilled for thousands of years without a problem—so why is it being criminalized today?”

One reason may be a populist, anti-immigrant trend in Europe.

Practices such as kosher and halal slaughter are under pressure; the right of Muslim women to wear headscarves has been severely limited in some countries; and minarets can no longer be built in Switzerland.

Circumcision is high on the list of suspect practices, even though Jesus himself had a brit milah, as Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, the president of the Conference of European Rabbis, pointed out at a news conference here last week following an emergency meeting of the group.

There is also a tendency to use modern arguments against age-old religious practices.

Holm Putzke, a professor of criminal law at the University of Passau who has argued for several years for a ban on involuntary circumcision, told JTA that he hoped the Cologne ruling would prompt a

discussion about “what should be given more weight—religious freedom or the right of children not to have their genitals mutilated.”

But even Jewish parents who cringe at the idea of circumcision, like Berlin Cantor Avital Gerstetter, defend the right to continue the ritual.

“It should be up to the parents,” said Gerstetter, whose two sons were both circumcised in Berlin’s Jewish Hospital. “It should not be banned. That is not a good thing, especially in Germany. It is just stupid.”

The ruling has proved such an embarrassment to Germany that the federal government has hinted it will intervene. Late last week, a spokesman for German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Steffen Seibert, told Reuters that for "everyone in the government it is absolutely clear that we want to have Jewish and Muslim religious life in Germany.

Circumcision carried out in a responsible manner must be possible in this country without punishment.”

Goldschmidt, who is also the

Judokas Alice Schlesinger and Arik Ze’evi power Israel’s medal hope

By Ben Sales Jewish Telegraphic Agency TEL AVIV (JTA) — One is nearing the end of his career, already has an Olympic medal and is eyeing another. The other is a decade younger, an up-and-comer who has enjoyed some success but is aiming for her first medal at the Games.

Ariel “Arik” Ze’evi, 35, and Alice Schlesinger, 24, are standouts on the Israeli Olympic judo team and two of their nation's best medal hopes at the London Games that begin later this month.

Ze’evi won bronze eight years ago in Athens and expects to win a medal this year after faltering in Beijing in 2008.

Holding a camera while the Israeli media photographed him on Sunday, Ze’evi sounded like a soon-to-be retiree going on vacation. He talked about “enjoying the experience” and “staying calm.”

Beneath the relaxed air, however, was a determined and optimistic veteran. Ze’evi won the gold medal at the European Judo Championships in April, and as the 38-person Israeli Olympic delegation’s senior member, he has emerged as one of its leaders.

“I’m very calm, but there’s still time” before the Olympics, he said. “We don’t prepare for failure.

We don’t set up scenarios where we don’t succeed. It’s better to have positive thoughts.”

Ze’evi says he is “sure” that

Noam Moskowitz/Flash90/JTA

Israeli Olympian Alice Schlesinger practicing her judo moves with her coach, Olympic bronze medalist Oren Smadja, July 9, 2012.

these are his last Olympics. If he were to participate in Rio de Janiero four years from now, at age 39, he would “compete with little kids,” he said.

Another bronze-winning Israel judoka is heading to London: Oren Smadja is one of the five-person judo team’s coaches. Smadja, 42, believes that the medal he won in 1992 paved the way for more recent Israeli successes in judo, like Ze’evi’s bronze in Athens. “[My] medal led to people practicing,” said Smadja, who acknowledged that he prefers competing to coaching. “I don’t remember a delegation this strong.

Some of [this year’s] team didn’t think they could get into the

Olympics. With my dedication and desire, I think I was” one of the impetuses for the team’s strong performance.

The Israeli judo team is coming off a strong performance at the European matches, where it earned four medals. Ze’evi and Smadja are hoping that Schlesinger finds her way to the podium at the Olympics.

“She’s been [training] with me since she was 16,” Ze’evi said of Schlesinger. “I’ve seen her go from a promising athlete into one of the best in the world.” Smadja calls her “a serious candidate for a medal.”

JUDOKAS on page 20

chief rabbi of Moscow, was relieved

by Siebert’s comments.

“This statement will come as a great comfort to Jewish communities not only in Germany but also to communities right across Europe who felt deeply troubled by the court’s decision,” he said in a statement. “I am grateful to Chancellor Merkel for making it clear that religious freedom will not be compromised in Germany.”

Members of the Conference of European Rabbis last week had urged Jewish parents to ignore the ruling and noted that the Maccabees found the ban of circumcision so threatening that they revolted against the ancient Greeks.

Mohels say they will continue to do circumcisions. “God is more important than a judge,” said the Jerusalem-born Rabbi David Goldberg, who serves the community of Hof Saale in Bavaria and has performed 4,000 brit milahs over the years. But Goldberg also said that some of his congregants have expressed reservations about circumcising their sons since the ruling.

Israel Briefs Kadima set to leave gov’t after breakdown in conscription law talks JERUSALEM (JTA)—The Kadima party will likely leave Israel’s government coalition after negotiations with Likud over a universal draft bill broke down.

With the talks reportedly ending Tuesday morning, Kadima scheduled a faction meeting for the evening to discuss its future in the government coalition, according to Israeli media reports. It appears likely that Kadima will pull out of the coalition some 70 days after joining it.

On Tuesday, Kadima head Shaul Mofaz reportedly rejected a compromise offer from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that would have drafted half of the age-appropriate haredi Orthodox men into the military and the other half into national service.

The parties have been meeting to find an alternative to the Tal Law, which grants military exemptions to haredi Orthodox Israeli men. In February, the Israeli Supreme Court declared the law to be unconstitutional and set Aug. 1 as the deadline for a new law to be passed.

Knesset Speaker Reuven Rivlin said Monday that he would extend the Knesset's current session, and not send lawmakers on summer break as scheduled on July 25, until

Physicians who perform circumcisions also are worried.

“Doctors are very insecure,” said Berlin attorney Nathan Gelbart, who is a member of the Central Council of Jews in Germany’s arbitration court. And parents are quaking in their boots, he said. “In Berlin, you have 1,500 Jewish circumcisions a year, so of course these people are affected.

They might be subject to criminal prosecution.”

The local ruling, however, is not binding “as long as there is no decision by the High Court of Justice or High Constitutional Court,” Gelbart said. Now, “Some people are suggesting turning themselves in” to force the law to a higher court, saying “if you think this is a crime, please arrest me.”

The Bundestag, or parliament, could start the procedure of adopting a law that explicitly allows religious circumcision of boys—even though it is not banned, Gelbart pointed out. “But let’s be realistic: It can take years” to adopt such a law.

CIRCUMCISION on page 21 a conscription law that includes the haredi Orthodox is drafted.

Peace Now leader Hagit Ofran’s home threatened in graffiti attack JERUSALEM (JTA)—The home of Peace Now Settlement Watch director Hagit Ofran was vandalized with threatening graffiti.

“Hagit you’re dead” and “Kahane was right” were spraypainted in and around Ofran's Jerusalem apartment building, with the latter referring to slain Kach party leader Meir Kahane.

The graffiti was discovered Monday morning.

Last November, vandals attacked her home with graffiti including swastikas and the words “Rabin is waiting for you,” referring to the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin in November 1995. Her apartment also was targeted last September.

Western Wall replica to be part of anti-abortion center (JTA)—Evangelical pastors in Kansas are planning to build a replica of the Western Wall as part of an anti-abortion shrine.

The International Pro-Life Memorial and National Life Center is being planned by anti-abortion activists in Wichita, which is known for its anti-abortion activism.

The model of the Western Wall will be a full-size, exact replica.

The activists view the Western Wall as the embodiment of remembering Jewish suffering during the Holocaust and now want the wall to memorialize some 60 million aborted fetuses.

SOCIAL LIFE • 11

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

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Ben Johnson The Weisberger family at JFK airport just before boarding flight to Israel. (L-R) Elizabeth, Rina, Hailey, Tracy, Jaclyn, Mitchell Weisberger

Weisberger family makes Aliyah New York, NY, July 12, 2012 —The Weisberger family, Mitchell (38), Tracy (36), Elizabeth (9), Jaclyn (8), Hailey (4), and Rina (1), from Cincinnati, Ohio, made Aliyah to Israel yesterday, July 11, They left out of JFK airport in New York. The Weisberger family boarded the flight along with 229 other Olim

(new immigrants), among them are 38 families, 100 children, and 59 singles, 13 of whom will be joining the IDF. “I am looking forward to raising my four daughters in Even Shmuel, Israel,” Tracy Weisberger said. “We are excited to become part of the country and meet new people who share our similar values.”

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12 • CINCINNATI SOCIAL LIFE

JCC CELEBRATES ISRAEL MEMORIAL DAY & ISRAEL INDEPENDANCE DAY REMEMBERING THOSE LOST IN ISRAEL’S WARS AND VICTIMS OF TERROR & CELEBRATING ISRAEL’S 64TH ANNIVERSARY

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

CINCINNATI JEWISH LIFE • 13

14 • DINING OUT

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

Tony’s—totally terrific

By Sondra Katkin Dining Editor “It’s impossible to be monogamous when you own a restaurant.”

Tony Ricci of Tony’s was not making a scandalous statement, but referring to the passion a restaurateur must have to achieve the high standards he maintains. For great steak and outstanding seafood, Tony’s will satisfy and gratify. I was so impressed after my previous visit, I brought friends and family there to celebrate my birthday last summer. The food was as wonderful this time. Harvey Germain, Ricci’s new, creative chef has adapted Tony’s standards to his beautiful presentations and delicious flavors. Needless to say, the steaks were perfect with a seasoning that required no tweaking.

They are chosen from prime midwestern cattle. Ricci explained that there is a better quality of beef raised in the areas close to us because the animals aren’t strained from the prevalent heat and sun out west. “Our strip is the best in town.

The quality of prime beef we buy is the absolute best from the best sources,” he noted.

Ricci grew up in an Italian family and loved watching his mother’s pleasure while serving wonderful food to her family. He has inherited the nurturing gene. When my gigantic strip was served, he actually cut it for me, and was pleased with my reaction. Of course it was time “stoppingly,” crescendo “playingly,” consummately worth consuming. Perfectly cooked and seasoned with the flavor that only prime beef can deliver, its moist steak “liquors” were almost dizzying. “Enquirer” food critic, Polly Campbell commented that the steak had “flakes of salt in the crust that provoked the taste buds as the meat satisfied them. It was an excellent steak.”

What a supreme delight to have the top of the line done so well.

Tony’s 10 ounce hamburger is a mix of the same prime beef — 30 percent tenderloin, 70 percent strip.

It’s topped with a unique and savory herb aioli of mayonnaise, garlic, parsley, cilantro, green onion, chives and a subtle touch of anchovy paste. Chef Germain, who praises his mom’s Passover seders as “second to none,” encases the huge patty in a traditional brioche of challah. I gave him the pronunciation test on the “ch” in challah and he scored 100 percent. He said that Tony is a “mencsh” to work for.

Tony replied, “Harvey and I make a good team. He’s a very creative chef and has done some wine dinners that were absolutely fantastic.”

The burger was rated among the top two in Cincinnati by Paul Dougherty, “Enquirer” sports writer. My husband Steve and I shared it, but he couldn’t have the challah (he must be gluten free). We agreed it had a rich, moist, meaty

(Clockwise) Owner Tony Ricci, Chef Harvey Germain and Manager Shane Keeton; Moist, sweet and artfully presented Chilean sea bass; Strip steak so perfect, it speaks for itself; Prime burger, fries and aioli, a truly heavenly trio; Gracefully elegant dining room; Handsome, comfortable bar area.

flavor that most slim slivers of ground beef can’t approach. For me, hamburger rolls have long been objectionable, flawed, flavorless fillers of doughy white paste that I immediately strip to save the calories. But this wonderful challah, with its sweet crust and fluffy body, was the correct cover to complete but not compete with the quality of the burger. The accompanying french fry truffle wedges truly taste of truffles with more body and crispness than any fries I’ve experienced. Germain explained that “they are fried at low heat, then higher heat after they ‘rest.’ We try to perfect our craft here so it becomes art.”

The seared yellow fin tuna was memorable on my last visit, tasting similar to Steve’s filet. They probably used the same wonderful steak seasoning on the thick (about three inches) portion. This time the chef prepared Chilean sea bass that was seared in hot oil just before its flash

point, giving it a caramelized surface, then finished in the oven. It was complemented by scallion, frisee and cilantro with a “veil” of cardamom subtly imparting their flavors to the fish. A sweet corn puree was a piquant base for the bass. My fork just fell through the moist, perfectly prepared “poisson” (fish). Its sweetness rivaled the corn, creating an excellent partnership. Other entrees include organic Scottish salmon, oven roasted chicken, rack of lamb and a wide variety of steaks and chops with six succulent toppings to choose from.

The restaurant is also known for its high quality salads; Tony puts great emphasis on fresh preparation. Pastas are also prominently featured on the menu with the authentic feel that only an Italian mother can give. There may even be a gluten free selection in the near future since the chef and Tony have close relatives who can’t eat gluten.

They are sensitive to allergy limited

diners and will accommodate them.

Don’t skip dessert. It’s no wonder Tony’s mother’s cannoli recipe won “Best of Cincinnati.” A crisp shell surrounding a dream cream, it’s superior to the ones I tried in Boston’s Italian pastry shops. A new dessert Chef Germain recently added to the menu is a fruity masterpiece that was still unnamed.

Dice shaped pieces of caramelized apple gleam like gems in a flaky half shell. The rum glaze is so good you will pause to let it melt over your taste buds. A whipped white cream mousse adds an extra richness. This dessert will be the peak of pleasure from a perfect repast.

An equivalency of elegance exists between the food and the decor. The dining room has high ceilings with art deco accents. There are tall white booths and white banquettes on the sides, and sleek dark chairs and tables in the center. The spacious granite topped bar with its own menu of gourmet appetizers

and heartier fare shares the music area with the restaurant. Guests will enjoy soft jazz enhanced by a dark mahogany piano on Wednesday through Saturday evenings. Happy hour discounts are Monday to Friday, from 4 – 8 p.m. The restaurant also offers a large, lovely room for private parties.

Being a bit directionally challenged, I relied on a Google map and found it lacking. Tony said that the best and simplest way is to proceed north on Montgomery Road from Harper’s Point. I left during heavy evening traffic and reached 275 in about five minutes. It’s not quite two miles and no turns necessary. Tony’s is open Monday to Thursday from 5–10 p.m., on Friday and Saturday from 5–11 p.m., and on Sunday from 5–9 p.m.

Tony’s 12110 Montgomery Road Montgomery, OH 45249 513-677-1993

DINING OUT • 15

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

RESTAURANT DIRECTORY 20 Brix

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101 Main St

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Montgomery Kanak India Restaurant

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• Outdoor Dining • 2 Miles N of 275 • on Montgomery Rd

16 • OPINION

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

Dear Mr. Rahimi

C O R R E C T I O N: Due to an editorial mix up, Zell Schulmans column was not run in it’s entirety in last weeks issue July 12.

We apologize for any cooking fiascos this might have led to. You can find Zells full column in this weeks issue.

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

Dear Editor, I am writing in response to the Letter to the Editor last week which criticized Access and the American Israelite for “glorifying alcohol consumption. Access was promoting an event which was intended to help Jewish young professionals make connections with one another and meet new people. It is no different than any other group putting on a happy hour or wine tasting event. It’s insulting for her to suggest that most of the participants that attend Access events aren’t responsible or mature enough to know their limits or make good choices for themselves. What about people who are 36 and older? They attend Jewish social gatherings where alcohol is served and also go to bars, restaurants and parties where they can enjoy as many adult beverages as they wish. Just because we are young professionals doesn’t mean we are unruly and irresponsible.

We do not have to drink to have fun. And just because Access offered a free drink ticket with an advance RSVP doesn’t mean that they were encouraging people to “go wild”. In fact, some of us choose to use our drink tickets for a Diet Coke! And just because the event took place at a bar doesn’t mean that Access is promoting illicit behavior.

Last I check it is perfectly acceptable and legal for adults over the age of 21 to enjoy a beautiful view in a private space at a popular venue with music and dancing. It’s

too bad that the writer chose to take away so much negative from the article when there are so many positives about Access. To single out this one event is ridiculous.

Access does so much more in the community. For example, most of us were/are participants of Federations LEAD class, are on numerous boards inside and outside of the Jewish community, participate in social action projects and contribute to the Jewish Federation and other organizations.

Whether it’s in a bar, or in a soup kitchen in Over the Rhine, Access brings young Jewish people together. “Cheers” to Access and The Mayerson Foundation for helping to make Cincinnati a great place for YPs to live and work!

Sincerely, Stacy Wolf Cincinnati, OH Dear Editor, Mindy, you are right. All too often in our society, alcohol is used as an enticement to attract participants in the ‘young professional’ age range. But after admitting to this point I am forced to disagree with you. I am a member of access; I have been for close to two years now. Looking back, I wish I could say close to four, but I cannot. Until I attended an Access function, I believed Access to be a bunch of snobby Jews who wouldn’t include me in their activities unless I acted like them.

Then I attended an Access function and realized I couldn’t

be more wrong. These Jewish young professionals are just like me. I like to have a good time and usually that involves a drink or two. Mindy, that’s just the way it is. Many of us young professionals work hard during the day and when we get home from work we like to relax. For some people that means sitting back and watching T.V., for others that means having a beer.

It would be nice if programs like Access could entice people into showing up simply by existing, but that isn’t the case. With the stress that comes from working at an all time high, people need other ways to blow off steam. I for one love attending Access functions for the sole reason of sitting down with some of the guys and girls and talking over a beer. Personally, I never get so inebriated that I cannot drive, or if I do I get a cab. We Accessers are smart kids Mindy.

While I can’t speak for every single Access attendee, I can tell you that no individual from my close group of friends EVER gets behind the wheel of a car if we are too drunk. Usually we have a designated driver anyway.

Again Mindy, I share your concern with our society as a whole, but you can throw your concerns away when it comes to Access. We young professionals don’t drink and drive. We’re smarter than that.

Sincerely, J. Shifman, Cincinnati, OH LETTERS on page 22

T EST Y OUR T ORAH KNOWLEDGE THIS WEEK’S PORTION: MATOT-MASEI (BAMIDBAR 30:2—36:13) 1. With which weapon did the Children of Israel kill the Midianites? a.) Bow and arrow b.) Cannon balls c.) Sword 2. Who set up the division of spoils of the Midianites? a.) Hashem b.) Moshe c.) Sanhedrin/Elders 3. Who received a portion of the spoils? a.) The soldiers b.) the Children of Israel 4 B 32:1-3 They wanted to settle in Trans-Jordan because the land was good for grazing cattle.

Moshe feared they were afraid to move to Canaan.

They answered they would lead the Children of Israel into battle for the land. Ramban 5. B

Rabbi Shafran is an editor at large and columnist for Ami Magazine.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

c.) Levites as custodians of the Mishkan d.) All of the above 4. Where did the tribes of Reuven and Gad want to settle? a.) Israel b.) Trans-Jordan c.) Anywhere 5. Who figured out the compromise between the tribes of Reuven, Gad and Moshe? a.) Hashem b.) Moshe c.) Tribes of Reuven and Gad

2. A 31:25-27 Hashem commanded Moshe, Eleazar (high priest), and the heads of the people to count the spoils. On a money issue,the elders needed to oversee, to insure the integrity of the division of the spoils. R Bcahi 3 D 31:27-28

Item: Iran’s vice president, Mohammad-Reza Rahimi, took the occasion of an International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking conference in Tehran to tell the assembled that the Talmud and “Zionists” dedicated to it are responsible for the spread of illegal drugs around the world.

Dear Mr. Rahimi, Oh, great, esteemed vice president of the beneficent, revolutionary Islamic Republic of Iran, you have exposed us mightily!

Revealed us mercilessly! Nailed us good!The raven-eyed maidens of the Hereafter are singing your praises—may you merit to meet them soon!

How did you manage to uncover our plots and machinations?

We have tried so very hard to hide our true intentions, to cloak our nefarious plans with a smokescreen of good deeds, religious devotion, and charity. Somehow, though, in your astuteness, you have ferreted out the truth, that our “objective is the destruction of the world” and that “the spread of narcotics in the world emanates from the teachings of the Talmud.”

As it states clearly in Baba Maiseh 1b:“Any Jew who causes a non-Jew to become addicted to an illegal substance is praiseworthy!

Adds Rabbi Narish, ‘he can deduct the expenses from his federal income tax.’ Say the Rabbis: Invest not in nursing homes but in rehab centers, so that thou may prosper.”

While our people in Mexico and Afghanistan have been busy harvesting coca and poppies, you, esteemed vice president, in your enlightenment and sobriety, have personally shunned all narcotics (though perhaps not psychedelic medicines); and the great Islamic Republic of Iran fights tirelessly against our efforts to addle the minds of the masses with our Jewish chemicals, kiddush clubs, and cholent.

Not only did your words sting but your logic was unassailable.

You showed that we members of the terrible tribe are behind all the global pill pushing; you even issued a challenge: “The Islamic Republic of Iran will pay for anybody who can research and find one single Zionist who is an addict. They do not exist.”

“This,” you announced triumphantly, “is the proof of their involvement in the drugs trade.”

Oh, we are defeated and shamed! Nefarious publications like Ami Magazine,and gatherings of ill-doers at dastardly Agudah conventions have tried to fabricate the existence of “substance abuse” in the Jewish community. But you bravely declare them liars! (How, by the way, does one apply for the research grant?)

And you revealed further how we “spread destruction not only by drugs, but also by [attacking] cultures.”Yes, our attacks led to the crumbling of ancient Greece and Rome. Or, at least, our spreading of despicable “ideas” like monotheism and “ideals” like peace.

What is more, as Your Incoherency knows well, we were behind the French. Russian, and American Revolutions, both World Wars, the Thirty Years’ War, the Peloponnesian War, the SinoChinese War (we’re masters of disguise) and the War on Poverty. Our sins speak for themselves.

In your infinite mercy, you refrained from reprising all the other evils great Iranian leaders have uncovered and have publicized about us: our scientists’ creation of swine flu, the “Harry Potter” series, the stealthy insinuation of the word “Zion” into the London Olympic logo, and our involvement in the Norway massacre. For that we humbly thank you.

What you may not know, and I may as well tell you, since there’s no hiding from your perspicacity, is that, while we have agents in many places (including your office, you might take note), the hub of our activities is a place that even our American lackeys concede in terror is rapidly Judaizing; it is called “Brooklyn.” And our chosen (get it? little joke there) route for exporting crime, mayhem, revolution, and cultural upheaval is a river crossing known as the Brooklyn Bridge.

Whoever controls it in effect controls the Jews and hence (since we do) the world.And so, in penance for all our Zionist sins of the past, I would like to humbly offer to sell that structure to you (wholesale, of course). Just let me know if you are interested and I will forward the number of a bank account into which you can wire the funds.

Signed: A Middle-Aged Guy of Zion (though aspiring to Elderhood)

Written by Rabbi Dov Aaron Wise

ANSWERS 1. C 31:8 Bilaam tried to use his mouth, which is the power of the Children of Israel, therefore they used the sword, the weapon of the nations, against him. This is example of measure for measure. Rashi

By Rabbi Avi Shafran Contributing Columnist

JEWISH LIFE • 17

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

Sedra of the Week

by Rabbi Shlomo Riskin Efrat, Israel — “And they (the Israelites) set their legions against Midian as the Lord had commanded Moses and they killed every male”.(Numbers 31:7) Our Biblical portion of Mattot opens with God's vengeance against Midian, an avowed enemy of the Israelites who had joined Balak the King of Moab in the hiring of Balaam to curse Israel. The Midianites also seduced Israel to have sex with their women and to engage in idolatrous orgiastic worship of the Midianite gods.

Israel was therefore enjoined to make a pre-emptive strike against a nation which had demonstrated their desire to see Israel vanquished.

The Bible goes on to record Moses' insistence that the young Midianite women fit to engage in sexual relations be killed and along with the young male Midianite children. How difficult is all of this carnage to the modern ear? How can we possibly justify such action, even if it was against a nation which had already lifted its banner for Israel's disappearance from the face of the earth?!

What we must remember as we read the Bible is that we are studying a text from the earliest times of recorded history, a text which we believe to have been written more than 4,000 years ago.

Yes, we also believe that the Biblical text is God given, but it was never intended that every verse of it be applied to every generation.

Our tradition insists that alongside the written Torah, there is an Oral Torah, a vibrant and still developing legal system which determines which Biblical laws only applied to the ancient world, which were open to limitation, reinterpretation and even expansion in different generations, and which were deemed unchanging and immutable for all times. The traditional orthodoxy which survives today is the heir to those

SHABBAT SHALOM: MATTOT – MASEI NUMBERS 30:2–36:13

The Bible commands “But in waging war against the people from the cities which the Lord God has given you for an inheritance you shall not allow any person to live. Rather you shall utterly destroy them, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizite, the Hivvite and the Jebusite as the Lord your God commanded you. This is so that they may not teach you to act according to all their abominations that they performed for their gods and sin before the Lord your God” (Deut 20:16-18) who fought valiantly against the Sadducees in the second commonwealth and the Karaites of the middle ages. Our ideological ancestors regarded these sects as heresies because they believed in a literal interpretation of the written law for all generations.

The arena of warfare is probably the one in which sweeping change from Biblical law is most evident. The Bible commands “But in waging war against the people from the cities which the Lord God has given you for an inheritance you shall not allow any person to live. Rather you shall utterly destroy them, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizite, the Hivvite and the Jebusite as the Lord your God commanded you.

This is so that they may not teach you to act according to all their abominations that they performed for their gods and sin before the Lord your God” (Deut 20:16-18) Apparently, at that juncture in history, there was no other way to wage and win a war and unless we had a national homeland, the nation of Israel never would have emerged. Our historic mission would have been still-born.It would seem that these particular nations were especially evil and heinous, addicted to inhuman and sexual acts of violence in their idolatrous orgies. They had to be extirpated if a moral society was

to emerge and influence the world.

The Talmud, therefore, insists that the command to “utterly destroy” every inhabitant of our enemies only applied to the specific nations singled out by the Bible during the early Biblical period.

During the first commonwealth, King Sennacherib of Assyria conquered the lands of the Middle East and confounded the indigenous people by forcing them to resettle in different areas and to intermarry with their new neighbors. Hence the ethnic nations identified by the Bible no longer exist and so the law demanding their total destruction no longer applies. (B.T. Berakhot 28a) Moreover, Maimonides and Nachmanides agree that it is forbidden for a Jew to wage war against any nation or individual – whether of the seven indigenous nations, Midian, or even Amalek— unless he be given the option of making peace and accepting the seven Noahide laws of morality (Maimonides, Laws of Kings 6,1). Once they agree to become moral individuals, we dare not harm them.And according to this view, this was the case even in the Biblical period!

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18 • JEWZ IN THE NEWZ

JEWZ

IN THE

By Nate Bloom Contributing Columnist NEW FLICKS Opening on Friday, July 20, is “The Dark Knight Rises,” the third film starring Christian Bale as Batman. It is being billed as “the epic conclusion” of the trilogy of “Batman” films directed by Christopher Nolan.Like Superman and Spider-Man, the Batman comic character had a Jewish creator (the late BOB KANE). JOSEPH GORDONLEVITT, 30, co-stars in “Dark Knight” as a Gotham City police officer.

Opening the same day in Cincinnati is the indie film, “Beasts of the Southern Wild.”

This pic comes with a lot of “buzz” because it won a major award at the Cannes Film Festival and the Grand Jury Prize for a Dramatic film at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. “Beasts” is a magical fantasy. A six-yearold girl, called Hushpuppy, lives with her father, Wink, in an isolated Southern Delta community.

Wink feels he has to be tough with his daughter to prepare for a time when he is no longer there to protect her. When Wink gets a mysterious illness— the whole world goes crazy: temperatures rise, the ice caps melt, and an army of prehistoric creatures called aurochs roam the Earth. As disaster looms, Hushpuppy goes in search of her lost mother. The film comes from a play by Lucy Alibar. The screenplay is by Alibar and BENH ZEITLIN, 29.

Zeitlin also directed the film. His Jewish father, folklorist STEVE ZEITLIN, founded and heads “City Lore” (the New York Center for Urban Culture). It is a multi-faceted organization that archives urban folklore documents and assists artists. Benh’s mother, Amanda Dargan, is a non-Jewish native of South Carolina, and also works as a City Lore folklorist.

TUBE RELATED NOTES The Showtime comedy series, “Web Therapy,” began its second season early this month. It stars LISA KUDROW, 48, (Phoebe on “Friends”) as an incredibly narcissistic and incompetent therapist. The multi-talented VICTOR GARBER, 63, plays her husband. The plotline this season has Garber’s character running as a Republican for Congress, but his campaign is somewhat derailed by a gay romance scandal (ironically, Garber is out-ofthe-closet in real life). Season 2 guest stars include Meryl Streep, SELMA BLAIR, 40, and Kudrow’s friend from “Friends,”

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NEWZ

DAVID SCHWIMMER, 45.

Kudrow recently spoke to the Jewish Journal of Los Angeles about the show and her personal life. She offered a few “Jewish details” not in prior interviews.

Kudrow grew-up in an affluent Southern California family. Her father is a prominent physician.

She told the “Journal” that her father is an atheist and her family did belong to a synagogue, but she chose to have a bar mitzvah, “because I just felt like I needed to be counted ‘in.’ I’m Jewish, and that’s important to me.” This tradition continues—the “Journal” reports that Kudrow told them “proudly” that her only child, her son, JULIAN, is now studying for his bar mitzvah.

Kudrow, who co-created and co-writes “Web Therapy,” was also the producer and host of the now-cancelled NBC ancestry show, “Who Do You Think You Are?” She told the “Journal” that she originally wasn’t going to explore her own family roots on camera. However, when a celeb cancelled she opted to “cover herself.” Learning the details of the deaths of relatives in the Holocaust was, she said, as bad she feared. But there was a silver lining: the discovery of a previously unknown cousin who lives in Poland.

PAUL RUDD, 43, who played the guy (Mike) who married Phoebe on “Friends,” will return to the Broadway stage this September, in a revival of a play, “Grace,” that was a regional hit.

He plays a businessman who moves to Florida to open a chain of gospel-themed motels. The four-character play features ED ASNER, 82, as a bug exterminator.

Starting last Sunday, July 15, at 10PM, was the new USA network series, “Political Animals.”

This six-episode series stars Sigourney Weaver as Elaine Barrish, the Secretary of State.

Like Hillary Clinton, Barrish was defeated by the President (Adrian Pasdar) in the primaries. The strong cast includes Ellen Burstyn as Elaine’s mother and JAMES WOLK, 27, as Douglas Hammond, Elaine’s son. Last fall, Wolk had a co-starring role in the short-lived Fox series, “Lone Star.” He had a large recurring role in the last season (JanApril, 2012) of “Shameless,” the Showtime series. He played “Adam,” a “nice guy” banker who dated Fiona (EMMY ROSSUM, 25), the star character of the show. “Shameless” viewers may recall that Adam dropped Fiona when it became apparent that she harbored strong feelings for her ex-boyfriend.

FROM THE PAGES 150 Y EARS A GO Mr. L.A. Lelme of Bretten, by Carlsruhe, Baden and Miss Mathilde Levy, of Hamburgh, Germany were married in Buffalo N.Y, by the Rev. Mr. Wurzel, July 6 ,1862..

Lazarus Shwarzenberg of Milwaukee, Wis., aged 76 years, died. He lived and died a pious Israelite..— July 25, 1862

125 Y EARS A GO Mr. S.B. Sachs is East, on business.

Mr. Alfred Seasongood is at Saratoga.

Miss Mollie Fogel is in Danville, Ill., the guest of her sister, Mrs. Toby Bamberger.

The Rev. Jos. Silverman, of Galveston, Texas, will preach next Saturday at the Mound Street Temple.

Mr. Elias Sulzer and Miss Marie Krakauer were united in marriage on the 17th by The Rev. Raphael Benjamin.

Mr. Jos. Bohm and family are at Atlantic City.

People at a distance can write or telegraph Huntsman, the Walnut Street florist, and have their orders promptly and carefully attended to. Satisfaction guaranteed.

Esculapia Springs is becoming quite a summer resort , and many Cincinnatians are summering this season. Among them are Mrs. Cas. Rau and family, Mr. Ben Freiberg and family, Henry Fox and family, and Mrs. Max Goldfinger. — July 22, 1887

100 Y EARS A GO Miss Dora Kotzenstein, daugther of Mr. and Mrs. John Kotzenstein of 596 Shillito street.

Avondale, was married to Mr. Robert Hosford on Wednesday of last week, at the home of the bride’s parents In the report of the donations to the Convalescent Home lask week, Mrs. Charles Albert was credited with a donation of fruit.

This was an error, as Mrs. Albert donated a surrey for the use of te inmates of the Home.

Rabbi Chas. S. Levi of Peoria, Ill., was in the city last week prior to the departure of a tour California and the Canadian Rockies, to be absent six weeks.

Rabbi Levi will look into the various phases of Jewish life in the

Western centers.

Mrs. Madelyn M. Mann, daughter of Mrs. Isaac M. Mann, of Henderson, Ky., was married to Mr. Herman Iglo, of New York City, on Tuesday of last week, at the Hotel Stinton.

Dr. Morgenstern tied the knot. Mr and Mrs. Iglo went north on their honeymoon.

The twenty-eighth year of the Plum Street Temple vacation school founded by the late Mrs. S.B. Sachs began last week in the basement of the Plum Street Temple. Over 100 girls enrolled for the study of sewing and other domestic arts under the supervision of Mrs. Charles Moch, the daughter of Mrs. Sachs, who will continue in the work to perpetuate her mother’s memory.— July 18, 1912

75 Y EARS A GO Rabbi Samuel Greenfield passed away in New York City Sunday, July 11th, at 67 of injuries suffered in an auto accident June 4th. He was a graduate of the Hebrew Union College (1891) and University of Cincinnati. He had been editor of The Jewish Tribune of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Parvy Hill, retired Cincinnati dentist, passed away at his home, 1964 Cleneay Avenue, Norwood, O., July 11th, in his 76th year. He had practiced in Cincinnati 32 years. He was a member of Hamer Lodge, F. and A.M., at Owensville, O.Dr. Hill is survived by his widow, Mrs. Clara Wolff Hill, a son, Dr. Parvy Hill, Jr., Oakville, O., and a daughter, Mrs. Horace Enzell, Norwood.

Services were held from the home Tuesday afternoon with internment at United Jewish Cemetary and with Weil’s in charge. — July 16, 1937

50 Y EARS A GO Mr. and Mrs. Hyman Rotman of Milford, Ohio announce the marriage of their daughter, Marlene Carol, to Paul Swerdlow, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ned Swerdlow of Philadelphia, June 24 in HUC Chapel. The bride, a graduate of Miami University of Oxfor, Ohio, teaches in the Indian Hill school system. The bridegroom, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, is a fourth year student at HUC. The couple will reside in Cincinnati Mr. and Mrs. Eugene

Schwartz, 6451 Mayflower Avenue, announce the forthcoming Bar Mitzvah of their son, Ronald Edward, Saturday, July 21, at 9:30 a.m. at the Golf Manor Synagogue Mr. and Mrs. Louie Jacobs announce the arrival of their son, Jonathan David, on Monday, July 16. The infant has a sister, Gail Deborah— July 19, 1962

25 Y EARS A GO Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell H. Cohen recently returned from a visit with their children, Dr. and Mrs. Steven Jay Cohen of Cleveland Heights, Ohio.

Rose Dennis of the Orthodox Jewish Home recently visited her family in Springdale, Va. City of Hope will soon pay tribute to Cincinnati philanthropist and entrepreneur Frederick A. Hauck, 93, whose varied and long career has included mining silver with The Indians, working in the surgical-supply business; Mexican land exploration, and rare-mineral mining — July 2, 1987

10 Y EARS A GO The House of Representatives unanimously passed House Resolution 393 July 9. The resolution calls on European nations to condemn anti-Semitism...The resolution was worded to send a harsh word to Europe, stating that “in view of its history [Europe] should be particularly sensitive to the scourge of anti-Semitism and the anti-Semitic violence. Now, therefore, be it.”

Mark Corey and Carol Schickler announce the birth of their son, Jacob Corey, Friday, May 3. The paternal grandparens are Rolf and Ros Schickler of Cincinnati. The maternal grandparents are Jim and Laverne Wilkins of Fairview Park, OH. John (Tucker) and Chris Sullivan announce the birth of their daughter, Zoe Tucker on March 4, 2002. Zoe has an older brother, Jacob, and a sister, Marley. The maternal grandparents are Ellen and Tom Neuman and Stuart Tucker. The paternal grandparents are Pat and Dan Sullivan. The great-grandparents are Herman Goldstein the late Florence Goldstein and Hanna Neuman. — July 18, 2002

CLASSIFIEDS • 19

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

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 Kollel (513) 631-1118 • kollel.shul.net 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 (Miami) (513) 523-5190 • muhillel.org Hillel Jewish Student Center (UC) (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) 214-1200 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 • btzbc.com 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 • btzbc.com 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

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 Sarah’s Place (513) 531-3151 • sarahsplacecincy.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

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

business@ americanisraelite.com or call Erin at 621-3145

SCROLLS from page 1 anything happened to the originals. In subsequent decades, HUCJIR’s Cincinnati campus continued to lead in Dead Sea Scroll scholarship, and the CollegeInstitute will host events this year to showcase the connections between Cincinnati and the SCHOOL from page 4 At Chabad Hebrew School, Hebrew reading is far from the boring, rote exercises of yesteryear. In fact, it is often the most anticipated part of the day. This is because the Hebrew reading curriculum features the internationally acclaimed Aleph Champ™ Reading Program, a motivational system that been proven to be the most effective method of teaching Hebrew reading and writing to children.

Says Nancy, a satisfied parent, “The Aleph Champ program is fabulous! Its ability to let my daughter learn at her own pace—however fast or slow that may be in a given week—is exactly the type of learning environment she needs. Her experience at Chabad Hebrew School has been invaluable, and she will carry those benefits with her for the rest of her life.”

“Our goal extends beyond the basic skills and knowledge stu-

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(513) 531-9600 scrolls—an important element in The Jewish Foundation’s investment in the Cincinnati campus and enhancing its exhibit capacity.

Further enhancing the Dead Sea Scrolls experience will be a series of programs leading up to and throughout the run of the exhibition showcasing the science of archaeology and real objects from biblical times. dents need in preparation for their Bar or Bat Mitzvahs,” says Rabbi Berel Cohen, Principal, “We create a solid foundation of love for Jewish living and learning that will serve our students for the rest of their lives. And not only is it affordable, it’s one of the safest investments you can make in today’s economy.”

Chabad Hebrew School requires no membership fees or synagogue dues, only an affordable tuition for the year. The friendly and inclusive policy means every Jewish child is welcome, regardless of affiliation, religious observance, prior knowledge or current financial capability. There are several opportunities to save off the already low tuition, including a half-price special for students ages 3-5, additional child discounts, refer a friend discounts and scholarships.

For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact Rabbi Berel Cohen.

Cody Goldstone, Lia Jaffe, Conner Burnet, Jake Sunberg and Lily Davis learn about Passover.

20 • ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Jazz group Marbin to play Blue Wisp On Saturday August 4, at 8:30 p.m., the jazz duo Marbin will play at The Blue Wisp Jazz Club on Race Street in Downtown Cincinnati.

First started in 2007 as an improvised music duo, Marbin consists of Israeli-American gui-

tarist Dani Rabin and Israeli saxophonist Danny Markovitch.

Markovitch and Rabin met shortly after Markovitch had completed his military service as an infantry sergeant and Rabin had graduated from Berklee College of Music.

Since 2008, the band has been liv-

ing in Chicago and performing all over the United States, playing over 250 shows a year with the accompaniment of drummer Justyn Lawrence and Bassist Ian Stewart.

According to one Jazz critic, “Markovitch and Rabin continue to blaze their own trail by creating a

powerful merger of jazz, rock, ambient and world musical styles into a sound distinctly their own.”

They have released three albums: one as part of Paul Wertico’s Mideast-Midwest Alliance, and two under the name Marbin.

In addition to their regular schedule, Marbin have toured with fusion super group Scott Henderson, Mike Clark, and Jeff Berlin in a series of venues on the east coast and in the Midwest.

There will be a cost to attend the performance.

The Hero Who Didn’t Want To Be One

By James A. Mills Book Review Editor Despite America’s obsession with celebrity, and in particular, celebrity athletes, very few of them had lives worth caring about.

One sports writer who has interviewed many star athletes for feature stories claims that almost all never said anything more illuminating than then, “pass the salt, please.” Hank Greenberg, however, is the exception to the rule.

Mark Kurlansky’s brief but captivating interpretive biography of the first Jewish superstar athlete is the fourth book in Yale’s 19 volume Jewish Lives series.

Kurlansky, the prolific author of such non-fiction best sellers as Cod and Salt, both destroys the

LEGACIES from page 8 It’s Ashkenazi counterpart, Yiddish, continues to survive through Yiddish-speaking haredi Orthodox communities and some secular advocates of the language.

Ladino, however, has faced a steep decline in the past century. While Yiddish has more than 3 million speakers worldwide, UNESCO estimates that fewer than 150,000 people still speak Ladino.

Gloria Ascher, co-director of Judaic Studies at Tufts University, offers several reasons for the language’s precipitous dropoff: 90 percent of Ladino speakers, particularly in places such as Bulgaria and Greece, were murdered during the Holocaust; with the rise of Zionism, Hebrew is emphasized as the central Jewish language; and Ladinospeaking immigrant parents encourage their children to speak the native language of their new countries, such as English.

After New York and Los Angeles, Seattle has the third largest Sephardi community in the United States. According to a 2000 study by the Jewish Federation of Seattle, there are 2,700 Sephardi households in the community’s total 22,490 Jewish households.

Naar started collecting materials at Ezra Bessaroth, a Sephardi synagogue, at the annual Purim bazaar in March. He already has gathered dozens of documents, including a rare Ladino textbook published in Salonika, Greece, in 1929. He even found a set of letters from the 1930s written by a 9-year old girl from the

Greenberg myths and presents a portrait of a good — and in many respects great – man.

In 1934 Greenberg’s Detroit Tigers were in the thick of a pennant race that would end in the Tigers’ first World Series appearance in 25 years. Much to Greenberg’s surprise, the national press began to debate whether he should play on Rosh Hashanah.

Greenberg who, since leaving his home in the Bronx was non-observant, wanted to play but also wanted to do the right thing. After consulting a reform rabbi, Greenberg played and hit 2 home runs in a 21 Tiger’s victory (one headline read “Talmud Clears Greenberg for Holiday Play”).

The national press’ attention increased as Yom Kipper

approached. Many of the articles included opinions from Jews which were critical of Greenberg’s playing on Rosh Hashanah.

Greenberg ultimately went to services on Yom Kippur, received a standing ovation, and did not play.

And so was born the myth of the observant Jew who, out of faith, refused to play on a holiday.

Kurlansky points out that in truth Greenberg desperately wanted to play, but did not because he did not want to disappoint his orthodox parents. Greenberg never again had to make the choice between observance and baseball on Yom Kippur.

He missed a World Series game in 1935 due to a broken wrist, and probably would have played, if healthy. In fact, there is no reason to believe that Greenberg ever

again went to services on Yom Kippur. However, while Greenberg just wanted to be a successful ballplayer — as he put it, “a ballplayer who just happened to be Jewish” — he accepted his unwanted role in Jewish American history with a unique dignity and grace.

This role involved far more than the unwanted attention and adulation of the Jewish community.

Greenberg played in Depression era Detroit, a city known for its virulent antiSemitism. Detroit, after all, was the home of Henry Ford and Father Charles Coughlin. Ford regularly penned hateful antisemetic diatribes in his newspaper, the Dearborn Independent, and Coughlin aired his own on a weekly national radio broadcast. Yet in

this environment, Greenberg not only persevered, he triumphed. In doing so, he became the most prolific, productive and valuable slugger of the decade, and after retiring as a player, a successful baseball executive. He was in all things a winner, but always a man of uncommon integrity.

Kurlansky deftly describes Greenberg’s triumph in the context of the stories of Jewish immigration and assimilation in the first half of the 20th century. In many ways, baseball played a significant role in those stories, a connection which has inspired great American writers such as Saul Bellow and Chiam Potok. It is fitting that in Greenberg’s case, Kurlansky’s biography is not only a home run, but a no doubter.

Island of Rhodes to her family members in Seattle.

“She was able to correspond her way and her family’s way off the island of Rhodes to evade Nazi persecution and to find safety in the U.S,” Naar said. “The entire story is preserved in the set of letters. It’s really an amazing story.”

The value of the objects should not be underestimated, says Noam Pianko, chair of the Stroum Jewish Studies Program.

“It’s the stories and the past of the Sephardic Jewish community of Seattle, so it has tremendous communal value,” he said. “These documents are important on a scholarly level as well. They tell an untold and yet incredibly important story of the Sephardic Jewish experience in America.”

Many of the documents, he says, have been buried in basements or closets and breathe an authenticity that can never be captured in academic works.

“I want to make the materials available in their original form so you can see the handwriting, the coffee stains and the lived lives of the owners,” Naar said.

Lynne Winters, director of the American Sephardi Federation, says it is remarkable that Naar has gained so many original documents.

“When you can touch something that someone’s hands touched however many years ago, whether it is 20, 25 or 100 years ago, there’s something unique about that than just seeing it in a book,” she said.

“You are touching history and making a physical connection with

someone who’s passed.”

Naar hopes to use his effort as a pilot program to be replicated with Sephardi communities elsewhere in the United States.

“Ladino source materials, although in smaller amounts to begin with, are not easily accessible and there’s been no project until now to make Ladino materials widely accessible over the Internet,” he said.

Unlike Yiddish documents, which have been catalogued through the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research in New York and other archives, Ladino documents have no such home.

“I have a few Ladino books and they are in pretty rough condition, and there are not going to be anymore coming out,” said Randall Belinfante, librarian and archivist at the National Sephardic Library.

“People are writing about Ladino culture, but they are not writing Ladino materials.”

Lyudmila Sholokhova, the head librarian at the YIVO Institute, says there is no clear estimate of how many Ladino books still exist.

However, there are an estimated 600 Ladino works at Yeshiva University, 200 more at YIVO, 200 at the Library of Congress and about 170 at the National Sephardic Library.

“Digitization will bring huge possibilities for people to get access to their heritage and also huge possibilities for libraries around the world to collaborate because at the moment, we don’t have a clear idea of what other libraries have,” Sholokhova said.

SECURITY from page 9

JUDOKAS from page 10

“There is complete cooperation in all areas, we have open channels,” Zinger said. “Those who need to protect the Games are concentrating on that and doing an excellent job. We are concentrating on our sportspeople doing an excellent job.”

The operation to secure London as a whole will be the most expensive in British history, costing $1.55 billion. Some 17,000 troops, 12,500 policemen and 7,000 security guards will be posted in the city, which has been nicknamed “Fortress London,” while an aircraft carrier will dock on the Thames River, surface-toair missiles will be deployed at six sites and unmanned drones with surveillance cameras will patrol the skies.

Nevertheless, the security arrangements have been severely criticized in recent weeks after it emerged that the company contracted to protect the Olympic Park and stadiums failed to deliver enough personnel. The government has deployed 3,500 more troops than originally planned and warned that more might be necessary.

Nerves were rattled earlier this month after six Islamist extremists were arrested in London over a possible terror plot. Three lived just a mile from the Olympic stadium. However, the London Metropolitan Police said the arrests were not linked to the Olympics.

Schlesinger, who is “very satisfied that Arik is 35 and still competing,” voices cautious optimism about her chances in London. She did not win a medal in Beijing but has since won three bronzes — at the 2009 world championships and at the 2009 and 2012 European championships.

But unlike Ze’evi, who sets the bar high for himself, Schlesinger says only that she hopes to “go home in peace” from London.

“Like everyone else I want a medal,” she says, “but I want to enjoy it.”

Smadja notes that “not everybody says ‘I’m going to win a medal’” Close relationships and judo have always come together for Schlesinger. Her brother introduced her to the sport as a child, and she attributes her success to her parents, who would take her to competitions on weekends.

Now her boyfriend, Pavel Musin, also is her coach.

Schlesinger says Musin’s dual roles “help me a lot.”

“To be in such an intense situation and be so close makes the experience different, makes it fun,” she said.

Schlesinger says her romantic relationship relieves stress from practices rather than augmenting it.

“Between every coach and athlete there are moments of tension,” she said. “But we have to solve them because we have to go home [together] at night.”

FOOD / FIRST PERSON • 21

THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2012

Make ‘Zell’s lite bites’ Outsmarting Miss Smarty Pants Zell’s Bites

by Zell Schulman This summer’s heat has taken its toll on our appetites. Not only are our appetites affected, but no cook wants to heat up their kitchens. It’s even been too hot to take the family out for dinner. I suggest something new and different. Instead of serving a full meal, make “Lite Bites.” Accompany these with a cold summer drink.

Top a slice of pound cake you’ve purchased from the store, and top it off with you’re favorite ice cream. Enjoy this quick and easy summer supper.

If you really like this suggestion, you may wish to invite some friends or neighbors to join you by bringing additional “Lite Bites” and create a last minute party. In any case, these recipes are some of my summer favorites.

SMOKED SALMON AND CUCUMBER SANDWHICHES 2 to 4 servings This is nice served with champagne or vodka. The butter, dill and mustard mixture can be prepared a day ahead, covered and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before spreading on bread rounds.

Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1 Teaspoon minced fresh dill 3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard 3 slices thin pumpernickel bread 12 thin slices cucumber 3oz sliced smoked salmon Method: 1.Mix the butter, minced dill and mustard in a small bowl.

2. Spread the bread with this butter mixture. Cover with cucumber slices, then salmon.

Sprinkle with pepper. Cut each sandwhich into 4 triangles. Top each with dill sprig and serve.

PUFF PASTRY CHEESE STICKS Makes 24 to 36 appetizers Ingredients: 1/2 package (17-1/4oz) frozen

puff pastry 1 egg beaten 1 tablespoon water 1/4 cup parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil 1 teaspoon chopped, fresh oregano Method: 1. Remove the pastry sheets from the freezer, and thaw them at room temp for 15 to 20 minutes.

Preheat oven at 400F. In a two cup measure, mix the egg and water then set aside. In a medium bowl, mix the cheese, basil and oregano then set aside.

2. Unfold the pastry on lightly floured surface. Sprinkle lightly with water. Roll into 14’x10’ rectangle. Cut in half length wise.

Brush both halves with egg/water mixture. Spread the cheese mixture on top half of the rectangles (egg side down). Roll with a rolling pin to seal the rectangles together. Brush with the egg wash.

3. Cut crosswise into 1/2inch strips. Twist each strip and place 2inches apart on a greased baking sheet, or one covered with parchment paper. Press the ends of each strip flat. Bake 10 minutes or until golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Incidentally Iris

by Iris Ruth Pastor I’m following in my mom’s footsteps in many ways. My knees are puffy with arthritis, just like her. I prefer maj games when there are only four players, not five, just like her. I like to start the day by myself with a mug of coffee and the day’s newspaper. And I get very depressed when the Reds lose. Just like her.

But I’m also following in her footsteps in an upbeat way. She gave herself a whopping big party when she turned 85 this past February. I am doing the same when I turn 65 next month.

Early on in the planning process, I decided I just had to have a theme. I came up with one rather handily “Smart Women.”

And here is the invitation I dreamed up:

To say that I was very proud of my creation is an understatement.

To say that I spent hours and hours composing and designing it is an understatement. To say I went back to Kinko’s at least five times to perfect the product is an understatement.

Alas, after much thought, revising and scrutiny, the invitation—complete with a commemorative stamp on the envelope sporting the word “Celebrate,” was mailed.

It reached my invited guests a few days ago. I was in a tizzy of anticipation, gleefully eager to hear all the accolades sure to come pouring forth on the topic of my cleverness.

Actually, there were a few exclamations centering on my wittiness but they were far outweighed by the numbers of wellmeaning invited guests that wasted no time in pointing out that though the invitation was quite original, there was a typo.

“How could this be?” I wailed hysterically to my husband—who, by the way, had also proofed and re-proofed the product.

But alas, it was confirmed.

My home address is 3023 W. Chapin Avenue. The address on the invite is 3012 W. Chapin Avenue. My only defense: I read

what I expected to be there, not what was actually there.

So let me be clear: To all my female friends and family in Cincinnati, I invite you to my 65th birthday party on August 4. And to cut down on the confusion, I will have clusters of happy birthday balloons tied to my porch posts to identify my house. In addition, I will have an abundance of food and drink.

A photographer will be capturing all the unforgettable moments.

A bartender will be making sure there are lots of unforgettable moments to capture.

I will have a contest to see who among us is truly the wisest and an art project to keep us engaged.

And we will all be socializing like crazy.

Through the afternoon, I will glory in being surrounded by smart women who have come from near and far to celebrate this milestone with me, because, clearly, when it comes to smarts, I need all the help I can get.

and works in a restaurant in Petach Tikvah, a short ride from his Ramat Gan home. He remains Catholic, and a few years ago married a Jewish immigrant from Ukraine.

He does not remember Fingust, but he would like to meet the Yuvali crew members who saved him and his countrymen more than three decades ago. Only four or five Vietnamese families from the Yuvali remain in Israel, most in the Tel Aviv area, he said.

The others, including members of Nguyen Than’s family, moved to North America and Europe.

“I love this country because if not for Israel, maybe I would be dead on the sea,” Nguyen Than said after a late night of work at the restaurant.

“The prime minister of Israel brought us here, and I never forgot it. When I came to Israel, it was clearly very hard, but it was OK. I love Israel like I love Vietnam.”

tion together with Groys and Anil Celik, who is Muslim, said people don’t understand “that this is a main part of our religions, a tradition that is not up for discussion. They only see that we cut off our foreskin.

“There were times when Jews had to live underground and could not reveal they were Jews, but they

still practiced the brit milah. People don’t understand what we had to live through to keep this tradition.”

Many former Soviet Jews abandoned the practice, said Groys, who was born in Ukraine. But in the 1990s, with the fall of the Soviet Union, Jews no longer feared being open about their religion.

Keep Coping, Iris Ruth Pastor PS: If there are any typos in this column, please keep it to yourself. My fragile ego can’t take it.

Zell's Tips: You may substitute sharp cheddar or gruyere cheese to replace the parmesan. Parsley and curry powder may replace the basil and oregano.

SWISS CHEESE SQUARES 4 to 6 servings These are so simple, you wouldn’t think people loved them so much. They’re popular, so you may wish to double the recipe for a large crowd. If making for 4 to 6 people, remove no more than 3 to 4 slices of Swiss cheese from the package. Use high quality Swiss or Gruyere cheese rather than processed cheese. There are a variety of mustards available today and you may wish to try something new besides Dijon mustard.

Ingredients: One 8-ounce package of Swiss cheese slices.

1/2 cup Dijon mustard.

Method: 1. Cut the Swiss cheese slices into 1inch squares. Spread Dijon mustard between two squares.

Press them together. Insert a toothpick in the center for easy pick-up. Garnish a platter with escarole large bib lettuce leaves, place the squares on top of the lettuce and serve.

SEEKING from page 6 “Please accept the government’s and my personal thanks for your part in this human enterprise,” Begin wrote. “Jewish people, who knew persecutions and know, probably better then any other nation, the meaning of being a refugee, could not stay indifferent to the suffering of those unfortunates.”

Nguyen Than became a chef CIRCUMCISION from page 10 The petition at change.org, meanwhile, states that “We’re not criminals! We’re not barbarians!” and concludes, “We’re against the circumcision of our rights!”

Mike Delberg, 22, a Jewish law student in Berlin who put the peti-

22 • OBITUARIES D EATH N OTICES RUTMAN, Gail, age 63, died on July 11, 2012; 21 Tammuz 5772 LEHRNER, Ann Gertzman, age 89, July 11,2012; 121 Tammuz, 5772 SOBEL, Manuel, age 77, died on July 11, 2012; 21 Tammuz 5772 MILLER, Samuel D., age 92, died on, July 16, 2012; 26 Tammuz 5772 LETTERS from page 16 Dear Editor, Mindy, it sounds to me like you’re an avid reader of the American Israelite, but unfortunately, from reading your letter, it also comes across that you only write to the Editor when you have something negative to express. First, let’s get one thing straight—if you believe that a picture of young professionals cheering each other with a glass of wine is “glorifying drinking”, then you're just being naive. Not more than a week ago, I saw President Obama on national TV drinking a beer at a bar. Does that mean the President is glorifying alcohol consumption? You need to put things in perspective and pick your battles.

In addition, your definition of “pre-gaming” is accurate; however, your assumption of what constitutes the “main event” is prob-

WWW.AMERICANISRAELITE.COM

ably incorrect. It sounds like your idea of the “main event” is drinking, drugs, sex & drunk driving?

Do you think we live the lifestyle of rock n’ roll bands? Access for Young Professionals consist of bankers, entrepreneurs, sales associates, real estate agents, event planners, world-class analysts, and motivated college students. Instead of ridiculing the American Israelite and Access for publishing/holding this event, you should be praising their ability to bring together young professionals into such a close community, even if that means getting together for an alcoholic drink (which is still legal last time I checked).

Access has done great things for the Jewish community in Cincinnati. Before moving here, I was not involved in my Jewish heritage at all. Surprisingly, I met my first Jewish friends and girlfriend through Access. A majority of the Access events don't even serve a drop of alcohol. Have you heard about the ACTout Splish Splash event? What about the Pottery Painting Classes?

JGourmet: Wood Fire Pizza Class? Or how about the 8 week Hebrew classes that over 30 people attended on a regular basis?

You’re hung up on the phrase “pre-gaming” and a silly piece of clip art pulled from a marketing website. Stop being a stick in the mud and write to the Editor about positive things for a change.

Sincerely, David Joseph Cincinnati, OH

BURIAL SERVICE FOR

JUDITH WINSTON FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 - 11 A.M. United Jewish Cemeteries – Walnut Hills Cemetery 3400 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH 45207 Friends and family are welcome to attend.

Dear Editor, Nes Gadol Haya Sham. “A great miracle happened there”. It is something we say every Chanukah as we spin the dreidel, and refers to the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days and the Jewish defeat of the ancient Greeks. Never in my wildest dreams did I think it would become a very personal adage for me and my family. That a modern day miracle in the promised land, actually a series of miracles, would dramatically impact our lives in unimaginable ways, and lead me on a life changing course when all was said and done.

Three years ago my youngest daughter Jessa was in Israel on a Federation trip that was to take her to Israel, Poland, and back to Israel again. About one week into the trip, she became ill with a stomach virus and was taken to a nearby hospital in the north and released. The next day the trip medic came to check her on the bus and noticed that her skin color looked a bit yellow. He ordered that she be taken back to the hospital. This was the first of many miracles because had it not occurred, she would not be alive today. The hospital near Tiberius determined that she was suffering from some form of hepatitis—an inflammation of the liver, but was unable to figure out the cause.

My brother Richard, who lives in Jerusalem, insisted that she be taken to Hadassah Hospital (the second miracle) in order that she receive the best care available in the region.

On the two hour trip to Hadassah, her blood pressure plummeted and her organs began to shut down. Once in the ER, while scrambling to come up with a diagnosis, the doctors began treating her for multiple causes of her rapidly deteriorating health, including Wilson’s disease. Wilson’s is a rare genetic disorder in which the body cannot process copper and at some point, usually in the teen years, the excess copper leaks into the bloodstream, where it is dispersed throughout the body, causing damage not only to the liver but also to the eyes, kidneys and brain.

Again miraculously, it turned out she was suffering from Wilson’s and the Hadassah’s doctors decision to treat her for this while determining the cause of her illness saved her life, as they had cleansed her blood of the poisonous copper two times before it killed her. They also knew she would die without a new liver, and that she didn’t have two weeks to live until a new organ might become available in Israel. So they

contacted Columbia Presbyterian in New York, who put her at the top of the donor list in their region even before she had reached their hospital. The decision to do this was unprecedented but because of their relationship with and respect for Hadassah Hospital, they relied on Hadassah’s diagnosis and took this unheralded step. Thus, while she was on the El-Al jet to New York, in which the Hadassah staff set up a mini-ICU, Columbia Presbyterian learned about a potential match of a donor liver in Tennessee, and went to harvest it shortly after she touched down.

Miracle after miracle after miracle.

Bonnie and Jessa Ullner

She survived the 10 hour surgery although it was touch and go for a long time after, as her kidneys had shut down and they did not know if she would awaken with brain damage due to the copper in her brain. Miraculously, she awoke with no apparent brain damage and her body slowly adjusted to the new liver, and her kidneys regained significant function a few weeks later.

Obviously this miraculous and yet terrifying series of events took its toll on Jessa and all the members of her family. For me, after recovering from the initial nightmare of almost losing my daughter and the tenuous efforts to keep her alive, I came away feeling like the luckiest person alive that on so many occasions she could have been taken from me, and yet someone or something intervened to save her. She survived and did not end up with permanent brain damage, and although she has to take medicines the rest of her life so her body doesn’t reject the liver, and her kidneys will never function at full capacity, she is alive and generally well and able to have a relatively normal life. What a blessing G-d has bestowed on her and me and our family.

It also evolved into a very

spiritual experience for me that G-d and my Israeli brethren at Hadassah Hospital had worked tirelessly and relentlessly to save my Jewish child’s life while she was in their care. They were not going to let her die on their watch. But in my heart of hearts, I have always felt that Hadassah Hospital saved her life because had that not started treating her for Wilson’s disease, which I am told even many regional U.S. hospitals would not have known to do, she would have died. Plain and simple. So in order to begin to repay this debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid, I started to volunteer with the Cincinnati Chapter of Hadassah in a small way by volunteering on the Donor Committee. I was also asked to speak about Jessa’s experience at the National Convention in Ft. Lauderdale in July 2010, and Hadassah made a video of her story, which included some of the doctors at the hospital, my brother Richard, Jessa and me.

All of these experiences made me want to get more and more involved in Hadassah, because what I discovered after I first got involved was an organization of 300,000 women in North America (plus some male associates). I have also found a group of women who are so committed to this organization as well as to the lifelong friendships they make along the way. They have embraced me with open arms...at the local, regional, and national level, and recently asked me to become the next president of the Cincinnati Chapter of Hadassah.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think, before Jessa got sick, that this would be the next chapter in my life.

Prior to Jessa’s illness, Hadassah was an organization I was vaguely familiar with but it certainly was not front and center on my radar screen. And now it has become of the utmost importance to me, and has now given me the vehicle in which to express my thanks for what they did for me and my family and my newly acquired passion for the work they do both in the United States and Israel and beyond. I will be installed as President on September 10 and just before, coincidentally, I am going to Israel for my nephew’s wedding.

I have a tour of the hospital already set up so I can thank those who helped save Jessa’s life whom I have not already met, and see where these miracles took place.

Sincerely, Bonnie Juran Ullner Cincinnati, OH

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