January 16 -
January 30
Vol. 5 Issue 123
y�xa, trtu - ,una ,arp
ROSH CHODESH SH’VAT MONDAY JAN 26, 7:00 PM WIN A CHOICE OF STERLING SILVER WITH YOUR DONATION OF $36 OR MORE.
$3,000 VALUE.
www.oorah.org 2
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
One-of-a-Kind World Famous Cuisine Two Names You Trust Where Quality & Service are a Tradition
The Smilow & Greenwald Families Present
PESACH 2009 SAN DIEGO, CA Two pools
PARSIPPANY, NJ
GLATT KOSHER • CHOLOV YISROEL • NON- GEBROKT • PRIVATE SEDERS/DINING • DAY CAMP • BABYSITTING ENTERTAINMENT • ACIVITIES • GAME ROOM • STIMULATING LECTURES • TEEN PROGRAM • EXCURSIONS
Both hotels have recently completed multi-million dollar renovations, are 100% exclusively Kosher L'Pesach and have expansive outdoor parks with benches and walking/jogging trails.
3
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
For Reservations call Smilow Family 800.379.2400 • 323.275.1949 Greenwald Caterers: 732.730.3945
www.smilowgreenwald.com info@smilowgreenwald.com
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Features
January 30, 2009
community links • Volume 5 Issue 123
14
36 10
“Name Two Jewish Business Men...” Boesky and Milken were not just any criminals. They were leaders in the Jewish community. In fact, they were recognized in many circles as the leaders in the Jewish community, sitting on Boards, getting awards, and having buildings named after them.
20
How Parents Live Forever Malka was six years old when she saw her family for the last time Mrs. Chana Jenny Weisberg
Dr. Robert Rome
14
What Will 2009 Bring? What will happen in the coming year? Will the new United States President change things, or will we have just more of the same?
26
Rabbi Simon Jacobson
Pushing The Envelope The young CEO opened it. When he saw the message typed on the small piece of paper, he knew his time had come. It read, "prepare two envelopes." Parshas Shemos Rabbi Mordechai Kaminetzky
4
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
$200
48 Hour Funding!
48 Hour CALL NOW!!
866-355-6664 5
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
s xc
State of California now has a
F REE
OR L OWCOST H EALTH I NSURANCE For Kids up to age 19 & Pregnant Women
NO COST MEDI-CAL No Copay, No Share of Cost Or
HEALTHY FAMILIES!!! Offer: Premium Monthly Costs, Are As Low As $4 per child & up to a maximum of $45 per family. Choice of: Blue Cross • Blue Shield • Kaiser • Health Net •Community Health Plan • etc. INCLUDES; Health, Dental, Vision, Hospital, Medicine, Mental Health, etc.
Eligibility based on: (Income + Age + Family Size) Does not count eligibility such as: (savings or cars, family property) A U.S. CITIZEN, NATIONAL OR ELIGIBLE ALIEN. REGARDLESS OF IMMIGRATION STATUS OR DATE OR DATE OF ENTRY, A CHILD OR PREGNANT WOMAN CAN QUALIFY FOR SOME FOR OF MEDI-CAL
For Free Assistance in English, Hebrew, Farsi, Spanish, please call Certified Assistant:
SHIRIN (310) 247-8800 WE HAVE APPLICATIONS & WE WILL COMPLETE IT
FOR FREE
• Implants • Veneers SPECIALIZING IN
Cosmetic Dentistry
• ZOOM! • Bleaching
Leslie H. Rosenthal D.D.S. GENERAL DENTISTRY
16055 Ventura Blvd. #1001 Encino, CA 91356
818-981-0394 6
January 16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
7
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Great Expectations
8
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
W
e never really know why things happen. Do we always deserve everything life throws at us, good or bad? Allow me to share a message from this week's Parshah which may shed a little light on the mysteries of life and our higher destinies. This is the Parshah that describes the beginning of bondage for the Jewish people in Egypt. Moses experiences his first official Divine revelation at the Burning Bush. There he is charged with the formidable mission to confront the Pharaoh and demand that he "Let My people go." Moses is full of questions and repeatedly seeks G-d's reassurances. It was not necessarily for what they had done in the past that G-d would redeem the Jewish people, but for what He anticipated for them in the future... In one exchange at the Bush, Moses asks, Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and that I should take the Children of Israel out of Egypt? Rashi interprets the first part of the question as Moses doubting his own qualifications to suddenly become a player in the king's court. In his typical humble way Moses didn't see himself worthy of challenging the mighty monarch of Egypt. The second part of the verse is explained by Rashi to be questioning the worthiness of the Jewish People. What have they actually done to deserve such a miraculous redemption? To which the Almighty answers, firstly, have no fear and have no doubts, I will be with you. And secondly, this is your sign that I have sent you: when you take the people out of Egypt, you will serve G-d on this mountain. Now it's very nice to know that this mountain was, in fact, Mount Sinai and that the Burning Bush encounter occurred on that very same mountain. But wherein lies G-d's answer to Moses' second question? He asked "who am I?" so G-d replied to the point and said don't worry "I will be with you." But to the question of by what merit did Israel deserve redemption we don't see any answer. That they "will serve G-d on this mountain" doesn't seem relevant to the discussion at all. Here it is that we find a fascinating insight into the
intriguingly infinite ways of Providence. G-d was saying that it was not necessarily for what they had done in the past that he was ready to redeem the Jewish people, but for what He anticipated for them in the future. On this very mountain they would receive His Torah; they would become His chosen messengers to be a light unto the nations; they would be the moral standard bearers for the entire world. Never mind what they did or didn't do in the past. G-d had big plans for this nation and it would all begin with the impending Exodus. What a powerful message for all of us. Sometimes, the kindness G-d does for us is not because of what we've been but rather what it would enable us to become. It's not for what we have already done but for what we still will do. I know a man who in mid-life experienced a near fatal coronary. Fortunately, his life was saved by the prompt medical intervention of paramedics and surgeons. When I visited him in hospital he was overwhelmed by one idea: his indebtedness to G-d, the Healer of all flesh. "Rabbi," he said, "I was a goner. What did I do to deserve this gift of life?" So I shared with him the Rashi mentioned above and told him it might not be something he had done in the past but something he would still do in the future. Perhaps G-d gave him a new lease on life for a reason. Not only to enjoy more years with his family but to do something significant for G-d, for His people, for the world. The Almighty's confidence proved justified. The man went on to deepen his personal spiritual commitments and also made a meaningful contribution to Jewish communal life. So should any of us be the beneficiaries of a special blessing from Above, instead of patting ourselves on the back and concluding that we must have done something wonderful to be thus rewarded, let us rather ask ourselves what G-d might be expecting us to do with this particular blessing in the future. How can we use it to further His work on earth? Special blessings carry with them special responsibilities. May each of us successfully develop all the potential G-d sees in us and use it for our own moral development and to somehow better the world around us. •
By Rabbi Yossy Goldman
9
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
10
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
I
remember the class well. About two decades ago, I was teaching high school students a course on the history of Jews in America. We were using a book published during the 1960’s. There was a chapter in that book on the contributions of Jews to American business. The chapter listed American Jews and Jewish immigrants who had formed successful businesses and corporations. It also described Jews who were at the forefront of the American labor movement. After the students read this chapter and I discussed the material in a classroom lecture, a brief quiz was given. The first question on this quiz which came from the Teacher’s Edition to the book was, “Name two famous Jewish businessmen and describe how they have helped the American Economy.” There was a blank look on many of the students in the class. Then, in the middle of the quiz, first one hand and then another was raised. About half the students in the end raised their hands to ask me a question, right there in the middle of the test. I called on one of the students who asked, “The only famous American Jewish businessmen I can think of are Ivan Boesky and Michael Milken. How has what they have done helped the American economy?” The other students in the room who had raised their hands nodded that this was the question they also wanted answered. 20 years ago, during a previous difficult period on Wall Street, Boesky and Milken came to symbolize greed. A character in the movie “Wall Street” who stated that “Greed is good” was said to be based on Ivan Boesky. Both Michael Milken and Boesky were convicted of felonies for their reported acts of using their companies to help ruin other companies, at least those were the allegations. Boesky and Milken were not just any criminals. They were leaders in the Jewish community. In fact, they were recognized in many circles as the leaders in the Jewish community, sitting on Boards, getting awards, and having buildings named after them. The new campus of the Jewish Theological Seminary was named in honor of Boesky’s parents. A high school and the main Jewish community center in Los Angeles were both named for Milken’s parents. (At least the Seminary had the good taste to take down the Boesky name from their buildings after his conviction.) Boesky and Milken came to represent Jewish businessmen in the 1980’s. A glorious histo-
11
January16
ry of builders in the community was replaced by the questionable doings of two convicted felons. The students in my class wondered how these two felons contributed to the American economy. Flash forward 20 years. In the last two years there have been several major scandals in the intersection of American politics and the economy. Several scandals have featured “religious” Jews from the Orthodox community at the center. There was the bribery scandal of Orthodox Jew Jack Abramoff where there reportedly were attempts to buy off American politicians with bribes. I remember the images of this black-hatted lobbyist being taken away by the police after he pleaded guilty to numerous charges. The newspapers have been filled in the past two months with reports of the shenanigans of Orthodox Jew Bernard Madoff who is said to have been the mastermind in the seeming fraudulent swindling of $50 Billion in funds from individuals, corporations, and charities. And now, in recent days, there are reports of another scandal involving a local Orthodox community leader, a man who serves as President of two different local Jewish day schools. Reports accuse Beverly Hills businessman David Rubin and his firm of allegedly making hundreds of thousands, even possibly millions in profits from the states of New Mexico and Pennsylvania after making tens of thousands of dollars in questionable campaign contributions to the governors of these states. The news reports cite Rubin at the middle of the “pay for play” scandal in New Mexico which led Governor Richardson to withdraw his name from consideration for Commerce Secretary in the Obama Administration. Just today, the day of writing this article, I have read news reports now tying Rubin to tens of thousands of dollars of campaign contributions to Barack Obama. There may be a cloud now over the entire Obama administration because of the alleged doings of Rubin. I will point out that Madoff and Rubin have not been convicted of any crimes to date. While there are continuing investigations into their alleged actions by government prosecutors, they are certainly entitled to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Yet, they do certainly remain under dark clouds of suspicion. Why does it always seem to be Jews at the heart of so many of these scandals? Why should our children think
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
of crooks when asked to think of Jewish businesspeople? And how is it that the scoundrels are not just Jews but they are Presidents and Treasurers of Jewish schools at every level? How is it that these individuals have schools and educational campuses named after their families? And how did it become that so many Jewish charities and schools are dependent on “crooked” money gained through schemes and alleged trickery? I know that there is a glorious history of the contributions of notable Jewish financiers throughout the modern period. The Rothschild family and Moses Montefiore are just two examples of Jewish financiers who helped to build and support institutions and charitable causes world wide. These men remain deserving of praise. Their contributions to the world Jewish community live on long after their deaths. Unfortunately, the evil perpetrated by the infamous Jews in recent decades also lives on. The cases of scandals seem clearly to outnumber the reported acts of generosity of a Rothschild, a Montefiore, or of another notable “clean” financier. After witnessing the highlighting of the behavior of convicted Jewish businessmen and politicians in recent decades, there have been substantial changes in the goals of Jewish young men and women. I have been told that instead of medicine, law, and other professions which were the goals of so many Jewish children in previous generations, business seems now to be the preferred major in college among our Jewish young adults. Our children seemed to have dropped for the most part teaching, social work, and other helping professions from their vocational goals. Our children look and view business as a way to make more money. The pursuit of money has seemed to replace doing good as a primary value of our children. It seems that our youths get the message when we name our Jewish buildings after Jewish felons. It does not seem to matter how you make the money, only that you contribute your money to Jewish causes. The more you contribute, even if the money was virtually stolen from others or acquired through other illegal or unethical means, the more honored you become. When we name our high school and college campuses after convicted or accused crooks, we harm the future generation as we herald and acclaim the reported criminal wrongdoing of these individuals. We look the other way. Do we really want more history of scandalous behavior? If not, then we have to stop designating these questionable characters as officers of our Jewish institutions. We have to stop naming buildings after crooks and seeming evil doers. We need to hold up, for example, those with clean records and spotless images, and not just constantly see awards given by Jewish causes to those who give ill-gained money to our charities. We must question where the money comes from. It is simply inappropriate when we realize that our Jewish “leaders” are either in jail, under house arrest, or the target of grand juries. We need to stop rewarding greedy behavior. We need to have our Jewish organizations take down the names of the crooks from our schools. We need to promote positive, ethical behavior. When we reward the crooked dealings of so many, we send the wrong message to our children. It is not too late to change the way the Jewish community does business. It is not too late to bring back altruism as a primary goal in the community. The future of our Jewish community and of our children demands a change. • Robert J. Rome, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist in clinical practice in Encino, California. He can be reached at RJRome@aol.com.
12
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Daily Specials Hot Dog Includes French Fries and Soda
$3.99 Hamburger Includes French Fries and Soda
$6.99 Grilled Chicken Sandwich Includes French Fries and Soda
$9.99 Philly Steak Sandwich Includes French Fries and Soda
$9.99
13
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
2008
is hardly the worst year in history, but it sure feels like it reading the news, blogs, commentaries and analysis of the past year. People are tentative and fearful. The mood is generally miserable. The outlook grim.
Predicting what the new year will bring can seem quite presumptuous, if not outright folly. Yet, I will venture to do so anyway. No, I don’t have a crystal ball. I have something far better. Read on.
2008’s economic meltdown – you can check out all the historic statistics on any popular website – is nowhere close to ending. A global recession, considered by many unprecedented, has suddenly erupted, with a domino effect continuing to ripple through the world. Mumbai has shaken us all up. The Middle East is at war again, or should I say, not at war again, but an ongoing battle that never seems to end. What is even more distressing is that Israel, perhaps for the first time in all of history, refuses to acknowledge that war has been declared against it, and to act accordingly and decisively, instead of just reacting to the latest missile attacks, second-guessing itself and moving forward with so much uncertainty. Read Israel Harel’s article in Haaretz, Israel Blinked First.
By looking back we can see ahead. The greatest guide for the future is the past. We cannot predict the coming year’s events. But we can learn from those before us who have seen and experienced far worse than we will ever see, and rose above it. What is the secret of the resilience and power of heroic people who endured and thrived despite great suffering?
What will happen in the coming year? Will the new United States President change things, or will we have just more of the same? How many more foreclosures, bankruptcies, failed companies and financial institutions can we look forward to in 2009? What new revelations and corruptions will emerge? Will our economic systems fail completely or will they rebound? Are we headed toward better times or worse ones? The questions are many. Answers few, if any.
One of the most remarkable and overlooked stories of history was the transcendent ability of Torah scholars to produce an enormous volume of literature despite the harshest circumstances surrounding them. Throughout the Early and Middle Ages, with Jewish persecution at its heights, sages like Rashi, Ramban, Rabbeinu Tam, Rashbam, the Tosafists and so many others – literally hundreds of scholars – wrote thousands of pages, containing the most brilliant and eloquent commentary you will ever read. And no where in their writings will you find complaints, bitterness, depression or demoralization. Pogroms, the crusades, persecutions, expulsions, inquisitions were ravaging Europe. But as much as you analyze their words, you will not uncover an iota of the tragic and difficult events taking place around them!
What Will the New Year Bring? A Prediction By Rabbi Simon Jacobson
14
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Including sushi, vegetable tempura, soup and or grilled fish
15
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
We are now working with all banks to do LOAN MODIFICATIONS. If you have an adjustable loan, negative amortization loan, can no longer afford your payments, or your principle balance is higher then your property value... WE CAN RENEGOTIATE THIS LOAN FOR YOU!
16
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
17
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
B”H
Orthodox Educational Day Care
Glatt RCA Kosher
The Only Glatt Kosher Deli • Restaurant • Bakery • Butchershop
From Reseda To San Jose
For ages 3-5 Our educational curriculum includes: • Aleph Bet Reading/Writing • Jewish Holidays • Weekly Parsha • Kabbalat Shabbat • Inspirational Stories of Tzaddikim • Brachot/Morning Prayers A Loving and caring atmosphere
MEATING PLAC E E TH
“We Will Cater Parties For 1 to 1,000 People!” LUNCH & DINNER Sunday - Thursday: 9am - 10pm Friday:9am - 2 Hours Before Sundown Saturday: 2 Hours After Sundown - Midnight FREE WIFI
*FREE DELIVERY with $20 minimum order within 2 miles
Mon.- Thur. 8:00- 4:00 • FRI. 8:00- 1:00 $550 Monthly.
Tel: 818-706-1255
Places are limited For more information please call Gila
fax in orders: 818-706-3488 Order Online
WWW.THEMEATINGPLACE.COM
B”H
Nora Schwartz is now working with C•L•S At Community Leasing and Sales We are here to give you the best deal On any Make or Model
BUY OR LEASE your next vehicle from us
Lowest Prices!!
Phone:310.766.4266
Fax:323.935.1809
email: n.shwartz@trycls.com
18
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check • FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check
6100 W. Pico Bl. Los Angeles, CA 90035 S P E C I A L I Z I N G
•
Tel: (323) 655-3346 I N
GENERAL SERVICES
BRAKES
• A/C Service
• • • •
• Batteries • Axles • Radiators
5% OFF
• Engines
•
Fax (323) 655-1065
D O M E S T I C
80
$
Replace Pads or Shoes Check Master Cylinder Repack Bearings Adjust and Bleed Brakes
SUV EXTRA
For most cars press rotor & repair discs. Semi-Metallic pads extra
• Water Pumps • Alternators • Starters • Timing Belts • Shocks & Struts • Transmissions • Clutches • Computer Diagnostics • Brakes • Oil Change
30, 60, 90K MILE SERVICE • Oil Change • Radiator Service • Check Ignition • Check Fuel Filter • Transmission Oil Change • Change Air Filter • Check All Hoses & Belts • Change Spark Plugs
185
$
&
I M P O R T S
TRANSMISSION OIL • Drain & Refill Transmission Oil • Transmission Gasket & Filter Extra • Check Fill Fluids • Check for Leaks
$
70
SUV EXTRA
Most cars & light trucks. Up to 3 quarts oil
LUBE OIL & FILTER •Replace Oil Filter •Check All Fluids •Check Belts & Hoses
RADIATOR SERVICE • Check Radiator • Drain & Refill Coolant • Check All Hoses • Check All Fluids
1799
$
SUV EXTRA
35
$
Most cars & light trucks. Up to 1 gallon coolant
FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check • FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check
19
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
FREE Tire Rotation & FREE Brake Check
GADI AUTO BODY
NOW OFFERING COMPLETE MECHANIC SERVICES!
How
Parents Live
Forever By Chana (Jenny) Weisberg
20
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
O
n the frequent occasions when Malka joins the large crowd of singles we host Friday nights at our Shabbat table, she is generally a good forty years older than any other guest present. But no one should be fooled by her age. The person sitting next to Malka will surely hear about something she learned at the most recent 24-hour Torah-thon she completed, or about a conference on acupuncture or pharmacology or Yiddish poetry that she attended that week, or her activism in promoting Holocaust education for young people. Malka was six years old when she saw her family for the last time When Shabbat is over, Malka is on the phone asking for the phone number of one of our guests. She has a young woman in mind for that young man who was at the table, or knows about an empty apartment, or has a job lead for someone she met. Over the past decade as a regular at our Shabbat table, Malka has slowly but surely become one of our favorite human beings. Over these years, I have managed to gather only snippets of information about her past as a child survivor of the Holocaust. I heard about how she was frequently transferred under the cover of night to new hiding places to avoid capture, and of her parents and siblings whom Malka last saw at the age of six when they were taken from her by the Nazis. But for all of these years the spunky, life-affirming Malka I know and these heartwrenching stories of a very young girl left on her own to fight for survival in Nazioccupied Europe, didn't seem to match. So this past week, I spent a few hours with Malka trying to figure out what her secret is. To my surprise, Malka explained to me that the "secret" is her mother and father, and the life lessons that they managed to teach her until the tender age of six. When I look at my own four-year-old, I have a tendency to think of her as little more than a baby who will
21
January16
quickly forget the things she learns from me or my husband or her older sisters. But Malka's personal stories (as well as increasing scientific evidence) prove that I am downright wrong to underestimate the powers of observation and retention of this 4-year-old sponge who is constantly learning from what she sees going on all around her. When I asked Malka, for example, how she became a person who is always looking for opportunities to help others, she recalled the influence of her father, a wealthy grocery storeowner."When I was four years old, I noticed that my father had two separate stacks of unpaid bills on his check-out counter. When I asked him why there were two piles, he told me that I must keep it a secret, but he kept one pile for regular customers and one pile for poor people that he threw away at the end of each day." When I asked Malka about the source of her life-long dream to move to Israel which she realized in 1993, she recalled, "When I was a little girl, maybe three or four, I loved to gaze at the photographs my mother had posted behind the charity boxes of holy places in the Land of Israel." When I asked her about her pride and joy, her three sons, who all chanted from the Torah in their family synagogues and on a professional basis, she remembered, "When I was five years old there was a rumor that proNazi hoodlums would be attacking a synagogue. My father ran into the shul at the same time that the Nazi supporters were storming in with their torches and barking dogs and rocks to break the windows. My father escaped with a Torah scroll hidden inside his jacket. I never told this story to my sons when they were little, but on their own they decided to become prayer leaders after their bar mitzvah. I believe this decision was a reward for my father's sacrifice and in his merit." When I asked Malka about her great thirst for knowledge, and her famously tireless attendance of classes and conferences, once again she credited her parents, "My parents always told me, 'Every day you must learn something new. Open a dictionary or an encyclopedia. Or better yet, the Bible, or Psalms. Read even just one verse. What you learn and what you retain nobody can ever take away from you.'" The six and a half decades since Malka's parents,
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
brother and sister were brutally murdered have been filled with hardships that are difficult to fathom. Malka recalls, "During the war, my life was constantly in great danger. I was moved more times than I can remember, to farms, to convents, to warehouses filled with rats." To this day, Malka's memories of these treacherous nighttime transfers prevent her from falling asleep until sunrise. Wherever she hid, the Nazis were close behind. "One orphanage where I was hiding," Malka remembers, "was so overcrowded that they would give the babies to the children to take care of them. I enjoyed doing this, because for me the babies were like dolls. "Once a Nazi came to take my baby away, but I refused to hand her over. The Nazi picked me up to put me into the truck along with the baby, but the orphanage director told him that he could not take me for some technical reason. He was so angry that he picked me up by my ear and threw me against the side of the building. I went down like a sack of potatoes. I don't remember anything after that. For months I was kept in an upstairs hallway while they waited to see if I would survive." And after the war, the difficulties did not end for Malka. The malnutrition and physical mistreatment that she had suffered during the war resulted in chronic health problems.
22
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
When Malka married her husband at the age of 23, her traumatic experiences also made it difficult for her to conceive and she suffered many miscarriages. Malka eventually gave birth to three sons, one of whom died when he was hit by a bus at the age of seventeen. Her husband died ten years later of cancer, leaving her to face life on her own once again as a young widow. To this day, the sadness of these painful losses hangs over her, and she refers to them frequently. And through all this, the lessons that Malka received during the few years she spent in her parents' home have served as her guiding inspiration through the darkest moments of her life. Malka explained, "My mother and father taught me many important things. But most importantly, they taught me that even at the hardest times I should be grateful every morning and every night for the blessings in my life. My parents taught me that one is allowed to be sad and miss those who are no longer with us. But we are required to look on the positive side of things and remember that even if we are in a bad situation we still always have more than someone else. For as long as I can remember, this has been my philosophy of life." Rabbi Sholom DovBer (the fifth Rebbe of ChabadLubavcitch, 1860-1920) would say: "Just as we are com-
manded to put on tefillin every day, we are commanded to spend at least a half an hour each day thinking about our children's education." Malka's life story explains why this is so. Her story teaches us the great power that parents have to educate their children to be good people and good Jews, as Malka's parents did. It teaches us how the decisions we make and the things we say are carefully recorded by these little people who share our homes. It teaches us that we have the ability to equip our children with the tools and the faith to struggle through and survive the darkest chapters of their lives. Malka's story pushes us to ask ourselves every day what our own children are learning from us, and with what lessons and rare gifts we will send them forth into the world when the time comes. Every time Malka leaves our home, without fail she thanks us for our hospitality. Yet we are the ones who feel we should thank her. Malka's parents taught her, and in turn she has taught us many great lessons that we hope to pass on to our children, and G-d willing, they to their children, Our enemies may have succeeded in killing the bodies of Malka's family, but their souls and their message will live on forever. •
Chana (Jenny) Weisberg is the author of Expecting Miracles: Finding Meaning and Spirituality in Pregnancy through Judaism (Urim), and is the creator of the popular website http://www.JewishPregnancy.org. Originally from Baltimore, Weisberg today lives in Jerusalem with her husband and four daughters.
23
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
24
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
25
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
By Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky
Pushing the Envelope
PARSHAS SHEMOS 26
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
T
his week’s portion introduces us to Moshe Rabeinu, the messenger of Hashem who redeems the Jewish nation from Egypt. We are told of Hashem's proposal to Moshe to lead the Jews out of Egypt, and how Moshe refuses the opportunity. First Moshe responds, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?” (Exodus 3:11) After Hashem assures him of his ability Moshe asks, “When I go to the nation and they ask me, ‘what is His name?’ what shall I say?" (Exodus 3:14) Hashem responds again. Then Moshe respectfully demurs, “But they will not believe me, and they will not heed my voice, they will say "Hashem did not appear to you!'" (Exodus 4:1) Again Hashem responds by giving Moshe two miraculous signs that he, when challenged, should in turn show to the Jewish nation. And again Moshe is hesitant. "Please my L-rd," he cries, "I am not a man of words, for I am heavy of mouth and heavy of speech." Once again Hashem rejoins, "Who made a mouth for man or makes one deaf, or dumb, sighted or blind? Is it not I, Hashem!" (Exodus 4:10-11) Hashem patiently responds to each of Moshe's excuses with a clearly defined rebuttal. Except when Moshe makes what proves to be his final plea. After exhausting all of his excuses, Moshe, seems desperate to absolve himself of the task and declares, "Send the one whom you usually send!" (Exodus 4:13) According to Rashi, Moshe was referring to Ahron, who prophesized to the Jews even before Moshe and throughout the time that Moshe was hiding in Midian. Suddenly, the conciliatory answers cease. "The rage of Hashem burned against Moshe." Hashem declares to Moshe that Ahron is elated with the decision. "Ahron is going to greet you with joy in is heart!" (Exodus 4:14). There are no more protestations. Moshe journeys back to Egypt and into eternity. The question is obvious. What did Moshe finally say that inflamed the ire of Hashem to the extent that the Torah tells us that His "anger burned"? Hashem responded calmly to each of Moshe's previous justifiable issues. Why did Hashem only become angry when Moshe evoked the concept of using Ahron, the one who normally and previously did the prophesizing?
27
January16
As a result of lower-level mismanagement, poor earnings, and low moral, the Board of Directors dismissed the CEO of a major corporation who had served faithfully and successfully for many years. His wisdom and experience, however, were well respected in the industry and the new boss looked to the former executive for introductory advice. "I can't tell you much," said the seasoned executive, "but I will give you something." The older boss, handed the neophyte executive two envelopes. One of them had a large#1 written on it, the second was marked #2. "Young man," began the former CEO, "when you are challenged with your first major crisis open envelope number one. If things have not calmed down after a few days, then open envelope number two." After a brief turnaround, things began to fall apart. Soon a crisis erupted, the employees were disgruntled, and chaos began to reign. The Board of Directors were once again looking to make major changes, and the unseasoned executive's job was on the line. As hard as the young executive tried to calm the situation, it was futile. He locked himself in his office and opened the first envelope. In small but clear typewritten letters were the words, "Blame your predecessor." He followed the advice but the results were short-lived. The following weeks were not productive. In fact, things were getting worse. It was time for the second envelope. The young CEO opened it. When he saw the message typed on the small piece of paper, he knew his time had come. It read, "prepare two envelopes." The Bechor Shor explains that as long as Moshe's hesitations engendered reasons that entailed his own perceived shortcomings, Hashem responded with a clear and precise rebuttal. But when Moshe exclaimed, "send the one who used to go," and did once again not offer any reason for his own failing but shifted the responsibility to his brother Ahron, Hashem became upset. And at that point, "the rage of Hashem burned against Moshe." When challenged with difficult tasks we must face the mission presented to us and deal with our own abilities. By shifting the responsibility to someone else, even if we feel he is better suited, we may be inviting wrath. Because when we are asked by Hashem to perform, then there is no one better to do the job. •
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
T
ransforming your material life involves two types of work. First, you must overwhelm and subdue materiality's opposition to holiness— your body and desires may remain unrefined but you force them to behave "as if" they were holy. But then you must transform your material existence into holiness. In this second stage, you transform your very nature--even naturally good habits become G-dly. In Kabbalah, the first type of work—conquering and subduing—is considered "masculine." Transformative work, however, is considered "feminine." Thus the commandments specifically entrusted to women: • safe-guarding the kosher standards of the family's food—exemplified by separating a portion of the dough when baking bread, • ensuring the safety and spiritual warmth of the home—represented by lighting the Shabbos candles, and
• sanctifying family life—by maintaining the laws governing modesty in behavior and marital intimacy, are all ways of transforming otherwise mundane aspects of normal human experience into expressions of holiness. OPTIMAL RESULTS G-d totally controls the results you get in your life. Thus, when puts you in a challenging situations-whether with regard to earning a living, maintaining your health, or in your relationships-He also gives you all the strength you need to overcome those challenges. In fact, as long as that challenge continues, you can be assured that it is the optimal setting for you to grow and develop. But fulfilling the purpose of your life--to sanctify your life and awareness of the Divine throughout reality--your G-d-given inner strengths and greatness are revealed.
Woman's Work
C The Meaningful Life Center. All rights reserved. www.meaningfullife.com
28
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
•WHITE
FISH
•LOX •TUNA •EGG SALAD •COD FISH •CREAM CHEESE
We Deliver! 29
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
NEFESH B’NEFESH UNVEILS FAST-TRACK ALIYAH APPLICATION New dynamic application features a virtual guide to aid Olim through innovative One-Stop Aliyah (Jerusalem, 5 January, 2009) Nefesh B'Nefesh has launched a new cutting-edge ‘One-Stop Aliyah Application’ for North American citizens, in a joint venture with the Jewish Agency, to streamline the Aliyah process making it easier for potential Olim. The new application, which represents a breakthrough in Aliyah technology, features a more user-friendly interface which enables prospective Olim to apply for both Nefesh B’Nefesh services and Aliyah eligibility approval by the Jewish Agency, in one application. The interactive application is available online, enabling Olim to complete the different components of the process at their convenience, from the comfort of their home computer. Its dynamic nature enables the application to be specifically tailored to the needs of each individual Oleh. The latest technology has been incorporated to present a virtual Nefesh B'Nefesh representative who pops up on the user's screen, offering advice and guidance in navigating the Online Application. The presence of the virtual guide, which demonstrates how to fill out the application, creates a more interactive and personalized experience. http://nbn.org.il/dag/dag_demo.html The application features built-in live chat support, whereby an NBN Aliyah professional is available online to answer any questions that may arise. In addition, applicants will be able to scan and attach documents to the relevant sections of the application as well as check the status of their application on a specific personal webpage. A hard copy application will still be available for Olim who prefer to fill out a written application. "We are excited to present this new dynamic application which will revolutionize the way people in North America make Aliyah,” said Nefesh B'Nefesh Executive VP of Israel Operations Danny Oberman. "The upgraded system will facilitate and expedite the entire process, ensuring that Olim receive the most efficient and responsive service as they take their first steps towards Aliyah. We are happy to be working together with the Jewish Agency to streamline Aliyah and make the process as simple as possible.”
NBN CAPS OFF 2008 NBN ended 2008 on a high note, welcoming four Group Aliyah Flights in a span of three days. These Group Flights allowed more flexibility in the choice of Aliyah dates while offering NBN’s trademark in-flight processing procedure. In all, over 300 Olim arrived this winter season. Nefesh B’Nefesh, together with the Jewish Agency for Israel, brought approximately 3,000 Olim from North America and more than 600 Olim from the UK in 2008 on 5 Charter Flights and 18 Group Flights.
30
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
#876392
We offer counseling for: Parenting Classes Individual/Family/Marriage Counseling
Get %10 Off When You Mention This Ad!
Teen Counseling
Free Estimate for New Installation & Replacement
Eating Disorders RCC
Women Support Groups Monitored Visitation /Child Exchange
Catering by Judy’s & Presentation by Chai’le
Domestic Violence/Anger Management Groups Drug/Alcohol Education, Assessments & Testing
For weddings catered in L.A.’s major hotels;
Sexual Addictions
Hyatt Century Plaza, Beverly Hilton, Universal Hilton, Sheraton Universal, Omni Hotel, etc.
DNA/Paternity Testing Non Profit Organization Dennis Brown
Or any hotel location of your choice!
MA, NCACII, SAP Executive Director
Buffet reception with carving station & Sushi & 4 course dinner! Glatt Kosher
31
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Q
Reuven sold his car to Shimon on a Friday, and received payment for it. Shimon drove the car home, thus making a Kinyan (Halachic Acquisition) on the car. At the time of the sale the car was covered under an extended warranty and had full insurance coverage. Since Reuven did not have the title of the car on hand at the time of the sale, they agreed that they would meet again on Monday and officially transfer the title and the warranty to Shimon. At that time Reuven's insurance policy would be terminated, and Shimon's would be instated. On Motzaei Shabbos (Saturday night), the car was in an accident and was totaled. The insurance company is prepared to pay the entire book value of the car to
Reuven, the policyholder.
A. Shimon is claiming that since Halachically the car is his, he is rightfully deserving of the insurance payment. Is Reuven obligated to give the insurance benefits that he will receive to Shimon? B. In this situation, the company that provides the extended warranty will refund the owner of the car the amount of money that was paid for the time on the warranty that will not be used. Does Reuven have to give that refund to Shimon?
Hilchos Choshen Mishpat "WHOSE IS IT?"
a. b. 32
January16
The insurance payment for the book value of the car solely belongs to Reuven, the seller.
A
The refund for the unused portion of the extended warranty belongs to Shimon, the purchaser. Even if the company would make out a check to Reuven, he must turn that money over to Shimon.
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
33
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Why Won’t They Listen?
By: Rabbi Lazer Brody Lazer Beams (lazerbrody.typepad.com)
34
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
I
n most cases, children not only look like their parents - they act like their parents. The Talmudic sages hit the nail on the head when they said, "The acts of fathers are steppingstones for sons", in other words, children walk in the path of their parents' actions, and not necessarily in the path of their parents' preaching. Probably the most hackneyed question I hear from parents - whether over the phone, via email, or on the street - is, "What do I do to make my son/daughter listen to me?" Other top-ten contending parental remarks include, "I can't understand why my son won't open a book," or "my daughter refuses to dress modestly, and has become downright insolent lately." The tunes are more than familiar to many of us. My answer is twofold: First, make sure you’re a shining personal example of whatever you want to teach your child; second, preserve your child’s dignity PARENTAL EXAMPLE Preaching and/or yelling serve no purpose. Physical punishments are even worse. The moment a parent raises a voice or a hand in anger, that parent has lost control, just like a drowning person yelling and splashing while trying to stay afloat. Irate parents are just as ineffective as drowning people. Parents who serve as personal examples never need to yell or threaten. When parents speak with love and respect to each other, their children will follow suit. When a parent prays with fervor, a child will also seek a connection with The Almighty. But, when a parent is a hypocrite or a liar, the child won't listen to a word that parent says. Children love consistency and truth, for they feel most secure in an honest environment. Parents who run a materialistic-oriented household, and measure success and the value of people and things in dollar signs, can't expect their children to be spiritual. If a father buries his nose in the morning newspaper, he has no moral right to demand that his son should love Talmud study. Children are mirrors of their parents; that's why in Breslever Chassidic thought, whenever we have a problem with a child, we don't reprimand the child until we first do intensive and extensive soul-searching within ourselves. Usually, once we correct our own deficiencies and misdoings, then our children's behavior falls right into place. The acts of fathers are steppingstones for
35
January16
sons - there is no better way of educating children than personal parental example. A CHILD’S DIGNITY Remember this important rule: A broken bone heals much faster than a broken heart. This rule holds especially true with children. I've seen courageous children getting a wound stitched without the help of anesthetic, that didn't emit the tiniest whimper. Yet, the very same child could completely lose his or her emotional equilibrium when viciously insulted by parents. Contrary to popular opinion, our children are not ours; they are precious divine souls that by The Almighty's grace have been entrusted to us for safekeeping and for educating until they're old enough to stand on their own. Children are not our servants, and certainly not our slaves. The tasks we give them to perform in and around the household should be designed as an integral part of their education - our helping them to prepare for life and not for the purpose of lowering our domestic or garden help expenses. By religious law, we are required to speak to our children with the same respect that we'd speak to any adult stranger. Just as we have a duty to protect our children's physical health, we have a duty to protect their emotional health. Parents with no training, knowledge, or awareness of what proper child education is according to Torah statutes are often the prime causes of their children's emotional difficulties. One can be a stern parent and a good disciplinarian without attacking the child's dignity. On the contrary, a child who knows that he or she is loved, respected, and held in high esteem will readily fulfill the parents' will. A child who lives under a reign of tyranny will revolt at the first opportunity. Education, yes; tyranny and insult, no! Children are much more inclined to listen to what a parent has to say when they know that the parent regards them with dignity. Even more so, there is no Halachic dispensation for disparaging one’s children, G-d forbid. Children under thirteen do not have the authority to forgive. Therefore, any verbal abuse – and it goes without saying, physical abuse – of a parent against a child is a sin than not even Yom Kippur can atone for. On the bottom line, we should treat our children like miniature dignitaries, as if the King entrusted His own little child into our care. You know what? That's exactly what they are - The King's own little children! •
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
PARSHAS VAERA 36
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
N
egotiating redemption is not a simple process. You must deal with two different sides and send two different messages to opposite parties. First, you must speak to the oppressors. You must be demanding and firm. You can not show weakness or a willingness to compromise. Then you have to inform to the oppressed. That should be easy: in a soft and soothing manner you gently break the news that they are about to be liberated. They will surely rejoice at the slightest hint that their time has finally come. That is why I am struck by a verse in this week's portion that directs Moshe to send the exact same message to Pharaoh and the Jewish people, as if Pharaoh and the Jews were of one mind, working in tandem. Exodus 6:13 "Hashem spoke to Moshe and Ahron and commanded them to speak to the children of Israel and to Pharaoh the King of Egypt, to let the children of Israel leave Egypt" I was always perplexed by this verse. How is it possible to encompass the message to the Jews and Pharaoh in one fell swoop? How can you compare the strong demand to Pharaoh to the soft, cajoling message necessary for the Jews? Pharaoh, who does not to want to hear of liberation, has to be warned and chastised and even plagued. The Jews should jump at the mention of redemption! Why, then, are the two combined in one verse and with one declaration? There are those who answer that the Jews in this verse actually refer to the Jewish taskmasters who were appointed by Pharaoh as kapos to oppress their brethren. Thus the equation is clearly justified. However, I would like to offer a more homiletic explanation:
There is a wonderful story of a poor farmer who lived under the rule of a miserable poritz (landowner) in medieval Europe. The evil landowner provided minimal shelter in exchange for a large portion of the farmer's profits. The farmer and his wife toiled under the most severe conditions to support their family with a few chickens that laid eggs and a cow that gave milk. Ultimately, time took its toll and hardship became the norm. The farmer and his wife had their bitter routine and never hoped for better. One day the farmer came back from the market quite upset. "What's the matter?" cried his wife, "you look as if the worst calamity has happened." "It has," sighed the anxious farmer. "They say in the market that the Moshiach is coming. He will take us all to the land of Israel. What will be of our cow and our chickens? Where will we live? Who will provide shelter for us? Oy! What is going to be?" His wife, who was steeped with faith in the Almighty, answered calmly. "Don't worry my dear husband. The Good Lord always protects His people. He saved us from Pharaoh in Egypt, He redeemed us from the evil Haman and has protected us from harsh decrees throughout our exile. No doubt he will protect us from this Moshiach too!" Hashem understood that the Jewish people were mired in exile for 210 years. They had decided to endure slavery rather than abandon it. Moshe had to be as forceful with those he was planning to redeem as he was with those who had enslaved them. Often in life, whether by choice or by chance, we enter into situations that we ought not be in. As time progresses, however, we get accustomed to the situation, and our worst enemy becomes change. We must tell the Pharaoh within each of us, "let my people go!" Let us not continue on the comfortable path but rather get on the correct one. That message must be told to the victim in us with the same force and intensity as it is told to the complacent. •
by Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky www.torah.org Rabbi Aaron Tendler, Ner Yisroel Baltimore
37
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.
38
Triple absorption. Countless benefits.
Not all fish oil supplements are created equal! Maxi Omega-3 Concentrate™ is the purest, most highly absorbed kosher fish oil in the world.
Clinical studies have shown that supplementing wih Omega-3 fish oil may significantly improve:
Enteric coated capsules are released in the intestines, not the stomach. The result: • Up to 3X better absorption!* • No fishy repeat or breath.
• Brain health and memory
Molecularly distilled fish oil is completely pure of mercury, lead, PCBs and other toxins.
• Joint health
Concentrated formula gives you a higher potency of EPA & DHA.
• Eye health
Tested by independent laboratories. * Based on a one-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled study by the New England Journal of Medicine:
• Heart & cardiovascular health
• Blood sugar levels • Prostate health
• Immunity
• Prenatal health • Skin and hair health • Depression and anxiety • Concentration and focus
Visit online or call to learn how Omega-3 Concentrate™ can improve your life.
Leaders in Nutritional Science
January16
1.800.895.9555
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
www.maxihealth.com info@communitylinks.info
For Your Information By Chana Baila
I
f you grew up in Boyle Heights & would like to take a trip down memory lane, or are just curious about the Jewish neighborhood in Los Angeles that preceded Fairfax & Pico/Robertson, there is an interesting documentary entitled "Meet me at Brooklyn & Soto: Los Angeles". It is available through Ergo Media Inc.(www.Jewishvideo.com). The film was put together by the Southern California Jewish Historical Society. Having a set of "Sharpie" permanent markers, in an assortment of colors, can be most helpful. The obvious use is labeling clothing when children are in school or go off to camp. Other uses include -- salvaging a knick-knack or picture frame that fell & got chipped by applying the closest matching color, covering up a small bleach stain or other discoloration on clothing, sheets or towels, or "embellishing" children's toys or dolls. When one is eating, it takes 20 minutes for the brain to "register" that the stomach is full. A person can be "fooled" by feeling still hungry while, or immediately after, eating something quickly. Rather, eating & chewing more slowly & savoring your meal will contribute greatly to satiety & less overeating. For those on tight budgets: "Staples" carries bookcases (assembly is necessary) that have 1" thick shelves & are sturdy enough to hold Gemorrahs & many other heavy Seforim without "bowing". There are a few options to choose from, regarding price, color finishes, & styles. Once they are filled with books or decorative objects, only you will know how little was paid. Custom made or
39
January16
more expensive bookcases can wait. "Office Depot" & "Ikea" have similar offerings. Posters are a great way to have incredible art displayed in your home or business very inexpensively. Museum and/or garden gift shops, specialty stores, tourist attractions, or poster websites are great sources. There is a great place to have your "masterpiece" framed -- "Quick Art Frame" will frame a poster for $19.95! (of course, size & other restrictions apply) It is located at 7955 W. 3rd St., L.A. Calif., 323-9302928. There are other locations around the city. Your selection & how it is framed can truly redefine a space, at a relative bargain! A good quality folding table, like Samsonite or Lifetime, can be a great desk in a children's room. Depending on the length you choose, two people can sit comfortably to do schoolwork together, play board games, or work on arts & crafts projects. Colorful plastic shelving units/towers can be placed adjacent to the table for storing supplies. Home Depot, Lowe's, Costco, Target, & The Container Store are good sources for these items. Having financial "restraints" can be a wonderful opportunity to cultivate creative resourcefulness. One woman, whose husband is in Kollel, took up sewing & has become so proficient, that she even sewed her daughter's wedding dress! Each child in their family beams with pride wearing their "Mommy-made with love" outfits. A friend, who was a single mother at the time, learned how to paint & wallpaper. A husband got instruction & succeeded in laying tiles in the family kitchen. I love the quote from Michaelangelo, apparently said when he was 87 years old, "I am still learning." May we all continue learning! Chana Baila Burston
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
The Gaza War IDF Chief to Gedolei Yisrael: Daven for the Soldiers IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Gabi Ashkenazi called on Gedolei Yisrael to daven for him and the soldiers of the IDF that they should be successful in Operation Cast Lead. The IDF commander turned to his friend Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, rav of the Kosel and other holy sites, asking him to carry the request to Gedolei Yisrael. When asked to confirm the report, the IDF commander stated, “I asked Rav Elyashiv and Rav Shteinman to daven for us”. Rabbi Rabinowitz reports he received brachos from Gedolei Yisrael for the success of the IDF.
We’re Fighting for Our Survival One soldier explained to YWN that unlike American forces stationed in various locations around the world, Israeli soldiers fighting in Gaza are fighting for the survival of the nation, to bring a halt to rocket attacks over an international border, to bring an end to constant attacks by a hostile Islamic terrorist regime that targets civilian population centers in southern Israel. From interviews with soldiers and parents, one can discern the attitude is a positive one and the soldiers are calling to push ahead and eliminate the enemy, to disarm Hamas, and to bring a peaceful life back to southern residents after 8 years of Hamas-sponsored terror. Interviews with the wounded carry the same undertone, with soldiers asking doctors when they will be well enough to return to their units to help get the job done. Despite much negative input from the predominately left-wing Israeli mainstream media, today it is obvious the backbone of the IDF’s infantry is the dati leumi camp, soldiers and young officers educated with Jewish values, Eretz Yisrael values, and a willingness to put the Jewish People ahead of their own personal safety.
Israel: 7 Killed in UNRWA School, Not 40 We have been there before and once again, Israel is defending herself against Arab propaganda, as was the case with the so-called ‘Jenin massacre’ (Operation Defensive Shield) and other similar cases in which Arabs claimed exaggerated death tolls and the international community all too willing to get on board and condemn Israel. Following the latest Hamas-reported ‘massacre’, reporting over 40 dead in a Gaza UNRWA school, Israel began questioning why the footage of the attack failed to show the bodies reported in the Arab media. Israel also reports the acrid black smoke seen coming from the building after the attack, providing additional evidence that the building was a storage facility for weapons and ammunition.
40
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
i^Wh[ j^[ b_]^j KNC
The Premier Guide for Savings and Directory for the Jewish Home
41
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Calfornia Kosher Kitchen Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
Ingredients 6 ROMA TOMATOES (ABOUT 1 POUND) 3 MEDIUM ZUCCHINI (ABOUT 1/2 POUND EACH) 1 BULB FENNEL 3 TABLESPOONS OIL , DIVIDED 3/4 TEASPOONS SALT, DIVIDED 4 CLOVES GARLIC, FINELY MINCED 1 TEASPOON LEMON ZEST 1 TABLESPOON LEMON JUICE 4 CHICKEN BREAST HALVES SKINLESS, BONE-IN (ABOUT 2 1/2 POUNDS) FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER 1 TABLESPOON FRESH CHOPPED ROSEMARY LEAVES OR 1 TEASPOON DRIED
Directions
PREHEAT THE OVEN TO 375 DEGREES F.
CUT THE TOMATOES LENGTHWISE INTO QUARTERS AND REMOVE THE SEEDS. TRIM THE ZUCCHINI AND CUT IT IN HALF CROSSWISE AND THEN CUT EACH PIECE IN HALF LENGTHWISE ONCE IF THE PIECE IS THIN AND TWICE IF IT IS THICKER, SO THAT THE PIECES ARE RELATIVELY UNIFORM.
REMOVE THE OUTERMOST LAYER OF THE FENNEL BULB AND DISCARD. CUT THE BULB IN HALF SO THAT EACH HALF RETAINS PART OF THE STEM END. CUT EACH HALF INTO 8 THIN WEDGES SO EACH WEDGE IS HELD TOGETHER BY A LITTLE PIECE OF STEM.
PUT THE VEGETABLES INTO A LARGE BAKING PAN. TOSS THEM WITH 2 TABLESPOONS OIL AND 1/4 TEASPOON OF SALT. ARRANGE THE CHICKEN PIECES IN THE PAN WITH THE VEGETABLES. IN
1 TABLESPOON OF OIL, 1/2 TEASPOON OF SALT, THE GARLIC, LEMON ZEST AND RUB THE MIXTURE INTO THE CHICKEN IN THE PAN. SEASON WITH A FEW TURNS OF PEPPER.
A SMALL BOWL COMBINE
LEMON JUICE.
ROAST
IN THE OVEN FOR
FOR ABOUT
20
TO
30
30
MINUTES, THEN GIVE THE VEGETABLES A STIR AND ADD THE ROSEMARY.
COOK
MINUTES MORE UNTIL THE CHICKEN IS DONE AND THE VEGETABLE ARE TENDER AND
BEGINNING TO BROWN.
42
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Kosher Updates/Alerts TROPICANA RUBY RED GRAPEFRUIT JUICE DOES NOT CONTAIN COCHINEAL OR CARMINE. - A recent article in the media stating that Tropicana Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice contains cochineal and carmine is completely untrue. This is erroneous and malicious misinformation. Cochineal and carmine are not used in any of the Tropicana pure juice products that are certified by OK Kosher. They are only used in Tropicana cocktail mixes, which are not pure juice, contain many different ingredients and are shelf stable products, not found in the refrigerator section. The cocktail mixes are not and have never been certified kosher.
Laffa Restaurant -Please be advised that the RCC has removed it certification from Laffa Restaurant (22435 Ventura Blvd.) in Woodland Hills, for cause. Tropicana Brand Orange Juice with Omega 3 -Please be aware that this product correctly bears an OK-Fish certification and should not be used together with meat or poultry. Consumers should always check each label before purchasing.
KOSHER INFORMATION BUREAU. 12753 CHANDLER BOULEVARD, NORTH HOLLYWOOD, CA 91607.
Rabbi Eliezer Eidlitz, Rabbinic Administrator • Website: www.kosherquest.org
Friday, January 16, 2009 Light Candles at: 4:50 pm • Friday, January 23, 2009 Light Candles at: 4:56 pm • Friday, January 30, 2009 Light Candles at: 5:03 pm
43
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
BABY SITTER AVAILABLE Orthodox woman available to watch your children full time or part time hours, at your location. Excellent references. call: 323-651-9389.
BEIS DIN Badatz West Coast Rabinical Council. Rabbi Gavriel Cohen: 323-939-0298
BUSINESS FOR SALE Succesful, tried and true, 9 year old business for sale! Call 310-480-2872 -1454-
FOR RENT Exquisite Studio Apartment / Office - with Kitchenette. Brand New A/C & Appliances. Fully tiled full Bathroom. Private Entrance. Totally Detached. Utilities incl. Centrally located in the Heart of the La Brea/Beverly Area- Walking distance from Shuls & Kosher Stores, Ideal For someone single and frum. Please call: 323-708-5122 -1436-
Large furnished room for rent in Kosher home in Valley Village. Walking distance to Shuls, Kosher markets and bus lines. $600 a month + ¼ of utilities. Please call 818-505-8313 or 818-565-8313. -1427-
Pico Robertson area - near all shuls For Shomer Shabbos gentleman, Furnished, Private Bath, Kosher Kitchen, Swimming Pool, $750 a month (utilities included), References requested. Please call (310) 289-1217 -1464-
1 large bedroom apartment, Beverly Hills view, washer & dryer. Please call (213) 840-8438 or (310) 385-0949 -1466-
MUSIC Music by Mendel Take your simcha to the next level. call now for availability and rates. 310-595-5490 -1438-
hood of Labrea and Beverly Blvd at lowestprice since 2004. • Eight unit apartment building in Pico Robertson area. • Two big apartment buildings consist of 81 unit each built in 1986.For complete list of our real estate listings and/or your specific needs Please contact: Daniel Dayani (Realtor Associate) at 310-279-2991 -1457-
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE -Prime BH, Newer Med Villa, 4300 sq ft. Free Recorded Info: 800-417-7489 enter ID# 7005. Visit www.BeverlyHillsInfo.net -Walk to Munchies, 462 South Swall, 5 bdrm, www.BevHillsHome.com, 800-417-7489 ID # 8005 -Find out what the HOME DOWN THE STREET sold for. Free list of area home sales and current listings. pre recorded message: 800-417-7489 ID# 7075 ••• Coming Soon... -Prime Hancock Park: Mediterranean Estate 5000+sq ft, pool Not yet on the market. For a sneak preview call Margalit @ Miller Real Estate 310-210-3038. -Beverly/LaBrea: Remodeled home, easy walk to all, 2000+ sq ft. nice yard. Not yet on the market. Seller will lease back until June. 310-210-3038. ••• WANTED -Qualified Buyer seeks 2 bdrm condo. Pico Area. 310-210-3038 -Fixer-Upper or small house for young professional with down payment & loan pre-approval. Pico or La Brea areas. 310-210-3038 -Buy Half a duplex with Shomer Shabbat family. Pico or La Brea area 310-210-3038. DISTRESS SALE/Bank Foreclosures. Free computerized list of Distress Properties. Free Recorded Message: 800-417-7489 ID# 7042 ••• For info on any of the above contact Marjorie@MillerRealEstateSales.com
HEADLINERS / EUROPEAN WIGS • Wash & Set • Hair Accessories • Jewelry • Ear Piercing Call Chaya Suri @ 323-930-1389 -1425-
FOR SALE R EAL E STATE DEALS OF CENTURY CITY: • A duplex in century city near Westwood Kehila and Kahal Yosef priced to sell. • Four unit apartment building in neighbor-
GRAPHIC DESIGN LH DESIGN & PRINTING You name it we design it! Business Cards, Postcards, Posters, Flyers, Stickers, CD/DVD Covers, Websites, Wedding and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Invitations, Scrapbook Albums, Digital Books, Tshirts, & More... Please Call: 818-822-9374 Email:Lmrhmr1@aol.com -1452-
ADVERTISE WITH THE COMMUNITY LINKS PHONE: 323-965-1544 FAX: 323-927-1596 44
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
HOME CARE AGENCY AAA InterConnectCare, Inc. Home care Agency Licensed, Insured, Bonded since 1993 CNA, CHHA, Caregivers, Companions in your home. Full insurance coverege and all payroll services for our employee. Long term Care, Workers Comp insurances accepted Russin, Polish, Hungerian, Yidish and more 310-2850200 8600 W. 3rd str, LA, Ca 90048. Conveniently located rigth across from Cedar Sinai Hospital -1455-
NEW KEHILLA New Torah Community, Camp, School Tehachapi Torah Center(ed Community): Suited for families, individuals and existing Torah organizations. Healthy, Serene, Affordable. Vacation or Year Round. Sundays: 11:00 Explore, House Hunt. Monthly Speaker, Brunch. Thursdays: 1:30 PM Weekly Parsha Preview Twice the home for half the money. Lease from: Apartments $450, Houses $900. Purchase: Houses $95K, Lots 30k, and up for nicer properties. Register interest soon for coming year: Day School/Home School Co-op. Yeshiva high school for regional and out of town boys. Beis Medrash with online university degree options. Summer Camp: Torah-Scouts-Sports, Ages 9-14. 'Learn More' contact Roger M. at: kernkehilla@att.net 310-948-5137 http://pearlmancta.com/JewishTehachapiKernCounty CaliforniaNewJewishCommunity.htm
Convenient location on W. 3rd & La Cienega Come take a look or any questions please call 310-2850200. The office: $350/mo Want to rent whole room - $950/mo E- mail: Interconnectcare@yahoo.com -1444-
PHOTOGRAPHY Ben Lautman Productions; Professional Videography. •Weddings •Family Documentaries •Bar/Bat Mitzvah •Parties •Theatrical performances •Tributes •Banquets. Relive your precious moments. High Definition DVD. 818-760-3618. Toll Free 866-MVP-VIDEO Email ModernVideo@sbcglobal.net -1406-
POSITIONS AVAILABLE We need an educational aide for our 20 year old son who is attending Valley College part time. Patient, reliable male, legally able to work in the U.S. Training and ongoing support will be provided. Please call 818-424-4612 -1450-
Looking for an education aide who is warm, responsible, to work in a Jewish day school in North Hollywood for an 8 year old boy. Special education experience preferred and or teaching experience. 11am -3 pm approx. Please call 818-251-0046 or 818-776-9552 -1446-
-1231-
NOTARY TRAVELING NOTARY Yosef Y. Shagalov: Traveling Notary Public & Home Signing Agent. Cell:(323)934-7095 email: yys770@aol.com -1459-
OFFICE SPACE Want to rent an office but can't afford the whole room? Rent a cubicle in our office!!! Clean, casual business environment, no limitations on schedule - come in and out any time, All utilities are paid, no worry no hassle.
Fun, Frum and Fabulous. Looking for efficient sales girl with great people skills, and take charge attitude for retail sales position. Please call 323-864-2641.
SEEKING JOBS Looking to work as a Nanny experienced with newborn, toddlers, twins, etc. Please call Rivkah 818-419-9434 -1445-
Orthodox woman available to watch your children full time or part time hours, at your location. Excellent references. Please call: 323-651-9389.
Engagements Lev Metz & Sara Allinson Perla Barocas & Meir Nemetsky Aryeh lapin & Hasadya wilansky Orly Hedvat & Ryan Shilian Bryan Maultasch & RachelRebenstorf Menachem Landa & Adina Green Sarina Litwin & Mendy Basch Chavie Rosenthal & Nuchie Shapiro Yaakov Yisroe Bess & Dassi Braun Avi Deutsch & Leah Lowy Jeffrey Barak to Rina Rome
Weddings Sharon Weiss & Ben Greenberg Ilana Saltan & Golan Silverman Aliza Boykan & Jonathan Michel Rebecca Litt & Yehoshua Sigala Births - Boys Sholom & Sara Rashka Heidingsfeld Hillary and Noah Davis Births - Girls Aaron and Karen Wizenfeld
Email us your Mazel Tovs!!
calinks@sbcglobal.net 45
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
Marketplace Lic# 813778
K OSHER B RIS A K OSHER , C OMFORTABLE , & P ROFESSIONAL B RIS .
R ABBI N ATANEL B ERKOWITZ C ERTIFIED M OHE L
Vq[F
CENTURY
CUSTOM HARDWOOD FLOOR, INC. QUALITY WORKMANSHIP AT AFFORDABLE PRICES!
• Refinishing / Sanding
,hrcg rcus 323-376-4238 C ALL 24 HRS . KOSHERBRIS @ YAHOO . COM
• Installation • Repairing • Water Damage
FREE ESTIMATES
• Bleaching • Custom Coloring For A Beautiful Floor Call:
1-8800-6608-66007 818-7764-00300 • 310-2276-66407 www.centurycustomhardwoodfloorinc.com
Dr. Navideh Levy-Failer, Psy.D.
IS YOUR COMPUTER RUNNING SLOW?
Licensed Clinical Psychologist PSY 20781
WE CAN MAKE IT RUN
8170 Beverly Blvd., Suite 108 Los Angeles, CA 90048
Phone: 323-653-5781 Voice Mail: 310-210-2920
Individual & Couples Therapy
50% FASTER
OUR PRICES WILL
SHOCK YOU!
LOWEST PRICES! ALL CARRIERS
Professional Massage Therapy (WOMEN ONLY)
Swedish Massage Deep Tissue Massage Pregnancy Message • Relieve Stress, Fatigue and Sore Muscles •Increase Circulation
FOR ONLY
$49.99*
•Release Toxins •Improve Reflex Response
323-924-2693
“Gift Certificates Available”
*LIMITED TO FIRST TIME CUSTOMERS
Rachel (818)517-5528
AUCTION ZONE NEW OR PRE-OWNED CELL PHONES
Healing Through Touch
• The Southern California •
ſ For ages: 18 months - 3 ſ Licensed, insured facility ſ Activities: Art, Music, Holidays… ſ Kosher meals provided ſ 20 years of experience ſ Vendor of Regional Center
The premier Guide for Savings and Directory for the Jewish Home
Get Noticed! 323-965-1544
For more information please call Morah Jackie at: (323) 932-6220
562-427-0501 46
January16
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
N
YZZF
Friday
ights
The SOLA Experience! Please P lease l
rreserve eserve yyour o our meal onlin online ne.
1610 S. La Cienega Cienega Bl Blvd. vd.
www.chabadsola.com w ww.chabad . dsola.com
47
January 30
• TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL
ccorner orner of La La Cienega C &P Pickford ickford Los Angeles, Angeless, CA 90035 Los
323-965-1544 •
info@communitylinks.info
800-933-6460