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“Good Job”
No teacher has ever said anything nice about me. I am going to do my best to show you that I can be a good student like you said.” Dr. Robert Rome
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Absolute Soul
We understand matters of life and death, justice and injustice, war and peace, in corporeal terms. It is difficult to view spirituality in those terms as well. Rabbi Mordechai Kaminetsky Parshas Pinchas
A War on War
This sounds so completely despicable that it is almost absurd. What lesson can we learn from this? Who can be so openly evil? Rabbi Reuven Wolf
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Yeshiva Gedola
Yeshiva Gedolah of Los Angeles held its Annual Siyum on June 16, 2010. The Yeshiva, established over 30 years ago by Talmidim of Beis Medrash Gevoha, has grown to become a true Makom Torah in Los Angeles.
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Robert J. Rome, Ph.D., is a licensed Psychologist in clinical practice in Encino, California He can be reached at RJRome@aol.com.
“Good Job”
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Rabbi from New York shared with me the following story which took place in a New York City public school: It was a backto-school night at a high school to introduce the parents to their children’s new teachers. One of the parents went up to the teacher after the brief presentation. “How’s my son Ron Smith doing?” While it was only the second week of the school year, this teacher already knew Ron Smith as one of the best students in his fourth period class. The teacher told the parent how Ron was quick to volunteer answers. He seemed very bright. The next day, in second period, a boy came up to the teacher and said, “Thank you so much for what you said to my mother last night. The teacher asked, and what is your name? The student responded, “Ron Smith. No teacher has ever said anything nice about me. I am going to do my best to show you that I can be a good student like you said.” The teacher had not realized that he had had two “Ron Smiths”. But the Ron Smith who had been complimented stopped getting in trouble and did his very best, ending up the semester on the honor roll. We all respond well to positive comments and positive feedback. As is shown in the story, even unintentional positive comments can cause great things to happen. I am not for advocating giving positive comments and compliments to everyone, whether they have earned the praise or not. Pretty soon, those compliments won’t make a difference. No one will take the comments seriously. But I do advocate taking extra time and effort to congratulate students and others when they do something special. Taking the time to note unusually special effort or progress can yield great results. Children who are praised or rewarded for their outstanding work will be more likely to try to do outstanding work
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again in the future. When I was in Little League, the champion team of each division, the Farm League, the Minors, and the Majors, received trophies for ending up in first place. We worked so hard to end up in first. I have two trophies from my four years in Little League, a pretty good accomplishment. By the time my oldest daughter was on a basketball team with Elias Elitzur sports at the Jewish Community Center some 30 years after my own youth sports exploits, everyone who played got the same award. There was no recognition for special play, by an individual or by a team. We now have a culture where no one seems to recognize special work or accomplishments. Some teachers never really praise special work. They purposely withhold “A” grades to somehow prove they are in charge in a class. Creativity is downplayed as students must each do their work in the same way, with little innovation. Some rewards and awards have remained. Schools still name valedictorians, for example. However, a recent article indicated that there are high schools who actually name 100 valedictorians! The awards that are given out have come to have much less meaning. Even with the recognition which is sometimes provided, there remains little recognition for trying harder, for doing a special task or assignment. Nine of the best years of my life were spent in the U.S. Navy, on active duty for three years and in the reserves for the other six years. Serving with the Marines, I became a great admirer of the Marine Corps culture in which noteworthy acts are acknowledged. If someone did an outstanding job, they would be commended at the Commanding General’s formation in the morning. If someone helped a local charity in a note-
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worthy way, they would get a General’s commendation. If someone had successfully completed their work with a unit, they might get a commendation praising their work. I recall a significant event in which one of the civilian workers in the Headquarters area started to go berserk in the small daily Catholic Chapel. She was ripping the religious objects off the wall and ranting. Nearby, a private first class heard the uproar in the otherwise empty chapel. He went in the chapel. He knew the woman’s name as she worked nearby. He calmly approached her and began to talk in a hushed voice to her. As she cried, he held her. The two sat on the floor as help came. This private volunteered to accompany the ambulance that took the woman to a local psychiatric hospital. No one had thought much of the private before then. But as I witnessed the end of this episode personally, I was greatly impressed how this 20 year old could calm a woman in this manner and help her as he did. The next morning, I wrote up a proposed commendation for the General. This commendation praised the private’s calm, reassuring demeanor that helped this woman while saving the property of the Chapel. Two days later, the young private was honored in front of hundreds in the General’s formation. This young Marine had never before been honored. He had been only a C student in school. He did not stand out in any way. But his entire demeanor changed when he accepted his honor from the General. He would never again be the same. He knew he could make a difference. On a least one occasion, he made quite a significant contribution and his work was rightfully commended. It does not take much for a teacher to commend a student for doing an extra special project. A struggling student who raises his or her grade significantly after hard studies is worthy of special
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praise. Creative assignments can be signaled out. Praise does not cost much, but the benefit can be so great.
ther promote leadership in the community and would encourage others to similarly help to better their communities.
I bring up the need for praise at this time because I recently witnessed a troubling event. There is a scholarship program in the Jewish community that gives five substantial scholarships to students who undertake projects that help the community. In past years, typically less than 20 students applied for the scholarships with 25% of these winning the scholarships. I heard that this year, in the midst of the recession, the number of applicants had gone way up. 178 high school students in the state had performed special projects from organizing on behalf of Israel to feeding the poor of Los Angeles. The application process required a nomination for the award and at least two recommendations. How the community was bettered had to be described in the application. 178 completed projects to help the community. Only five would receive scholarships.
That was when my proposal went to the Scholarship Committee. The Committee members challenged my proposal. Some of the projects were not really what the Committee desired or for what the scholarship program had been set up, they claimed. Could they honor these students as well? There were other arguments provided. In the end, no “honorable mentions” would be named. No one else would be recognized. The negative reaction of the Committee occurred even though it would cost no money to post on the internet site the applicants and the names of their cities and projects. That Committee had an opportunity to bring the outstanding work of scores of students to the attention of the public. They did not view this as necessary. They did not view a pat on the back of students who had worked an entire year or more on a project as worthwhile.
I called the agency coordinator of the scholarship program and proposed that they name “honorable mention” projects and list them on their website. This special acknowledgement could be given to all those that successfully completed a project which had received the requisite nomination and recommendations. I commented that this way, well over a hundred students would be recognized. The awards program could highlight the many projects which had been completed and the communities which had benefitted. The agency coordinator seemed quite genuine in her positive reactions to my proposal. She indicated that this was a “win-win” situation in which students could put in their resumes that they had received honorable mention in a scholarship program, while the significant contributions to communities made by these students would further promote this scholarship program. Commending these students would fur-
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Having served with the Marines, I understand well the culture of publicly thanking any notable work. We live in a world where fewer and fewer adults in leadership positions have had any kind of military background. They just don’t know the great good that can occur with a simple statement of “good job.” I don’t advocate awarding everyone. But I do value praising special work or contributions. When someone does praiseworthy work, praise in return is appropriate. I would like to live in a world where the contributions of all are to be praised. Every individual is capable of great work at times. As we praise this work, we enhance the importance of the person who did the work. One moment of special praise can change an entire life. Take the time to commend special work you see. •
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R
evenge is not a Jewish trait, yet, in Parshas Matos, G-d commands Moshe to “take revenge for the Jewish people from the Midianites.” Moshe amassased a thousand people from each tribe, including a battalion from the tribe of Levi, and fought a war without mercy, with the goal of the complete annihilation of the Midianite people. The war was successful, and the Jewish army conquered Midian and did with Midian exactly as they were instructed. In last week’s Torah portion, we read how the evil sorcerers Balak and Bilam failed in their attempts to curse the Jews, and out of their desperation to cause harm to the Jewish people, they resorted to luring them into sin. Midianite and Moabite girls went to the Jewish camp in the desert and seduced many Jewish men and even tempted them into idol worship. Thousands of people died because of this, and these two evil people caused much harm to the Jewish nation. Every other war that the Jews undertook was as a result of provocation or necessity. When the nation of Amalek attacked them on their way out of Egypt, the Jewish people defended themselves. When it came time to settle the land of our forefathers, the land promised to us by G-d, the Jews battled the seven nations, but that was not a war against the people. The inhabitants of the land had the opportunity to leave and might have been allowed to stay under certain conditions, but they didn’t like their options, and fought the Jews. What was the purpose of this revenge war with Midian? What lesson can we draw into our lives? The Shelah HaKadosh teaches that each week’s Torah portion contains a lesson relevant to the time of the year we read it. During this
A War On War
Our ongoing battle to eliminate divisiveness from the human heart.
difficult three week period between the fasts in the months of Tammuz and Av, a time when we acknowledge the loss of our temple and exile from the holy land of Israel, the message of the portion of Matos is especially relevant and timely. As we know, the Torah was given to the Jewish people to influence and uplift the rest of humanity. Through performance of the mitzvos over thousands of years, the Jewish people rectify and elevate the world, leading it into the messianic era when it will be perfectly holy and in harmony with G-d. Until that time, the world is filled with a lot of unholiness and impurity for the Jewish people to combat. The Kabbalists explain that each of the ancient nations that the Jews confront and battle are embodiments of various negative forces and drives in the world that must be vanquished. For example, to settle the Promised Land, the Jewish people needed to first conquer the entire spectrum of human emotion by eliminating the negative traits harbored within their own hearts. Each of the seven nations living in the land of Israel in the time of Joshua personified an antithesis of the seven primary G-dly emotions. As the Jewish people battle these evil nations - unholy ideologies and emotions – we cleanse ourselves and elevate the world. The first two emotions, which are the most primary of the seven, are Chesed/Loving Kindness and Gevurah/Strength and Discipline. Kindness and love often expresses itself as love, passion or attraction. We can have holy love and kindness - a passion for Torah and mitzvos and a longing for G-d and doing what’s right. But, there is also distorted kindness - immoral craving and desire, strong passions and lusts for unholy and undesirable things. The nation of Canaan was the personification of unholy Kindness. Before donning their shields and holstering their weapons to fight against the Canaanites, the Jewish people had to first battle their own hearts. The Jewish soldiers had to identify, extract and eliminate their fire for unholy passions and lusts. When they were able to destroy the unholy Chesed living within their own souls, the opposing nation of Canaan simply crumbled at their feet, and the ensuing physical battle was hardly a challenge. Similarly, they worked with the second primary emotion of Gevurah/Strength and Discipline. Holy discipline and
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strength can appear as the desire for law and order, self-discipline and hard work. Unholy Gevurah, especially as manifested by the warlike nation of the Hittites, manifests itself as anger, hatred and violence. Once again, before battling the Hittites, the Jewish people had to battle these tendencies within themselves, and only after a successful personal battle was the land-war a victorious effort. In the portion of Matos, G-d instructs Moshe to destroy Midian. This was a battle led by Moshe himself, even before the nation began its conquest of the Holy Land. What did the Jewish people need to rectify within themselves even before entering the land, and why was Moshe the leader needed to win the battle? Chassidic teachings stress that that the name of something describes its essence. Midian literally means conflict-strife. The Midianites represent the root of animosity, baseless hatred and divisiveness. Where the trademark of holiness is unity and harmony, peace and wholeness, the trademark and identity of the unholy is discord and fragmentation. The Shema is the motto of the Jewish people. It’s one of the first things we say in the morning and the last thing we say at night. The Shema is sung by a new mother to her baby, and it’s also part of the final deathbed confession. Its final word is Echad/One because the hallmark of the Jewish people is oneness and unity. The notion of world peace is a Jewish idea – the ultimate dream of a world dominated by oneness and brotherly love; G-dly unity should permeate through all beings and all of creation. Midian’s hatred and discord for
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anyone and anything else is so thoroughly evil that they stand completely opposed to all G-dliness and unity. The fact that anyone or anything else exists in the universe is enough for Midian to oppose it. They thrive in war, they channel and fuel animosity, hatred, and discord into humanity. For this reason, they stand in direct opposition to G-d and His people. How do we differentiate between the Hittites – noted as a divisive, angry, warmongering and hate-filled nation, and the Midianites - whom the Kabbalists describe as the cradle of strife and quarreling , the source of divisiveness, fragmentation, and baseless hatred? The hatred of the Hittites was one of offense; it was purposeful. They hated others because they were easily offended. They felt that everyone was stepping on their toes or neglecting their honor. Midian , however, is a very deep evil rooted at the core of the human psyche. Midian’s drive is Sinas Chinam/Baseless Hatred. The Midianites didn’t get offended because the Jews did something they didn’t like. The Midianites hated the Jews (and practically everyone else) because they couldn’t stand their existence. Other people occupy space that could have been theirs. This sounds so completely despicable that it is almost absurd. What lesson can we learn from this? Who can be so openly evil? Unfortunately, this baseless hatred, Sinas Chinam, can also be so subtle and camouflaged that it creeps up in places that we least expect it. It’s something we all suffer from. This hatred comes from the inflation of ego and the need to feel important.
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When we suffer from Sinas Chinam it doesn’t manifest itself against every other person in the world. With most people, our ego is able to fit them into the general agenda – one person fits in my life because he provides comfort, another person provides business opportunities, one is my doctor, and another is my lawyer - we can find a context for most people in which they are not antagonizing, rather, complementing our existence. This cancerous evil of intolerance, perpetuated by Midian, is towards people who are exactly the same as us, or who are working on similar things. Even the most pious of people, with only the best of intentions can be affected by this. For example, a person may have an organization to help those in need, perhaps by providing money, food, or education, and he really wants to help as many people as possible, and works wholeheartedly, hour after hour, day after day, year-round, to do good things. Yet, the moment another organization opens, the fact that someone else is doing it too and getting attention is utterly intolerable. What about all of the people that need help? One person or organization can’t possibly help them all! What about the common goal? Sinas Chinam/Baseless Hatred strips away all of the good and completely invalidates the other, causing one to view the other in the worst possible light. Our first exile lasted for seventy years. The sages tell us that it was because the Jews succumbed to three cardinal sins: Adultery, Murder and Idolatry. The Kabbalists explain that these sins come as a result of perversions in the primary emotions of Chesed/Kindness, Gevurah/Discipline and Tifferet/Truth. Despite the
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gravity and tragedy of these sins, the Jews recognized their depravity and within seventy years they were able to correct them, return to the land of Israel and rebuild the temple. The second exile, which we are still suffering within, came about through Sinas Chinam. It was the inner erosion of the community, the bickering between the Rabbis and community members, their inability to help each other, or even coexist, that destroyed the second temple and exiled us from the Holy Land. Almost 2,000 years later, we are still within the same exile, still working to correct this evil within ourselves. The root of this intolerance is the density of the ego - an intense self awareness and self obsession. The world is under a curtain that blocks and separates the creations from feeling that all of existence is perpetually emerging from G-d, from utter nothingness into something only to serve him. To feel that we exist and will continue to exist as part of some system, that we are entitled to do what we want and how we want it, is an evil state of mind brought about by the ego. When a person assumes this state, they are acting like a god, an absolute entity that can’t stand that there is another god. The fact is that we are created and live to fulfill Hashem’s will. Servants are not bothered by other servants; they all work to fulfill the wishes of the master. If there are more servants, they are overjoyed, because the master’s wishes are ful-
filled faster and to a greater degree. Baseless hatred, the seed of our current exile feeds the suffering of all humanity. When we lose sight of G-d, we lose sight of the reason for our existence. This is the Midian, the force of intolerance and divisiveness within the world. How can we correct this? What can we do to bring the Jewish people together? The first step, is the identification and recognition of the problem; to know that we suffer from Sinas Chinam and that we need to deal with it. Secondly, we need to introduce humility and a submission to the Divine Source of all of existence. We must recognize that we exist to only serve Him and that we are all working together, doing our best, to serve him. A pinky finger knows that its part of the larger hand, it doesn’t start performing tasks on its own, or reducing the importance of the other fingers. If we can see ourselves as a group of agents serving G-d and not ourselves, then we can find significance in our work because we complement each other. For this we have the Torah, it humbles us and slaps the ego around a little. To live a Torah based life, the self must submit to G-d. One can no longer say “I can do what I want in MY life, MY house, MY kitchen, MY bedroom…” The Torah shows is that everything belongs to G-d, and teaches us what He wants us do do or not to do.
the performance of Mitzvos can be used for self perpetuation and aggrandizement. It’s only though humble performance of torah and mitzvos, not for the self, that this can be achieved. The main quality of Moshe, his greatest description, is that he was the most humble person to ever live. He didn’t feel himself at all. Moshe had no self awareness. When Moshe spoke, it was G-d speaking through his mouth. It is only because of his selflessness, that Moshe was able to become the ultimate teacher and the conveyor of G-d’s Torah to the Jewish nation. This is also the reason why it was Moshe who needed to lead the fight against Midian. Since Moshe had the greatest capacity of selflessness and nullification, he was able to combat the strength and heavy beingness of Midian. Along with the scholars from the tribe of Levi, who spent their days completely immersed in Torah instead of worldly pursuits, the Jewish people were able to overcome the evil of Midian, the cancer of baseless hatred, and begin the more personal and emotional conquest of the holy land. As we read about this during the three weeks, we hope that we can draw the energy into our lives to love and connect with each other and eradicate the little remnants of Midian we might have strewn about, to hastily bring about the coming of Moshiach and the rebuilding of the temple in our days. •
Ironically, even Torah study and
Excerpt from "The Parsha In My Life" class by Rabbi Reuven Wolf. Maayon Yisroel was founded by Rabbi Reuven Wolf, a renowned educator and inspiring lecturer who has devoted his life to reaching out and rekindling the spirit of Yiddishkeit in his fellow Jew. Over the past five years Rabbi Wolf has been teaching a 2-4 hour class on the weekly Parsha, named affectionately "The Thursday Night Shiur".
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Absolute Soul
PARSHAS PINCHAS 22
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here is a lesson, meted out in this week's portion that has eternal ramifications upon the theological nature of the Jewish nation. It is a lesson that defines our attitudes toward spirituality and its relevance to modern living. After Bila'am's failed efforts to curse the Jewish people, he devised another ploy. He advised the nations of Midian and Moav to lure the Jews to sin through salacious activities. Midian complied wholeheartedly, offering its daughters as conspirators in the profanity. The scheme worked. The Jews cavorted with Midianite women, and the wrath of Hashem was aroused. A plague ensued and thousands of Jews died. In this week's portion, Hashem commands his people to administer justice. "Make the Midianites your enemies and attack them! For they antagonized you through their conspiracy that they conspired against you in the matter of Peor, and in the matter of Cozbi, daughter of a leader of Midian, their sister, who was slain on the day of the plague, in the matter of Peor" (Numbers 25:17-18). Eventually Jews go to war with Midian.
to call the doctor, but it was on Shabbos. My father was very conscientious of the sanctity of Shabbos. He would never desecrate Shabbos. But our rabbi told us that since this is a matter of life and death, we were allowed to desecrate the Shabbos! He called it pikuach nefesh. Rabbi Abramski," the man implored, "with all due respect. The children are already here in England. They are safe from the Nazis. The only issue is where to place them. How they are raised is not pikuach nefesh!" With that, the man politely bade farewell and hung up the phone. That Friday evening, the wealthy man was sitting at dinner, when the telephone rang incessantly. Finally, the man got up from his meal and answered the phone. As he listened to the voice on the other end of the line, his face went pallid. "This is Abramski. Please. I would not call on the Sabbath if I did not think this was pikuach nefesh. Again, I implore you. We need the funds to ensure that these children will be raised as Jews."
The issue that may confront the modern thinker is simple. War? Over what? They were not fighting over land. There was no dispute over oil or natural resources. Why such vehemence to the point of physical attack over the incident at Peor? Why call for such physical retribution for an act that caused spiritual sedition through secular seduction?
Needless to say, the man responded immediately to the appeal.
Rabbi Eliezer Sorotzkin of Lev L'Achim related the following story: In November 1938, before the onset of World War II, some Jewish children had the opportunity to escape from Nazi Germany and resettle in England through what became known as kindertransport. Unfortunately, their were not enough religious families able to accept these children and other families who were willing to take them were not willing to raise the children with Jewish traditions. The Chief Rabbi of London, Rabbi Yechezkel Abramski, embarked on a frantic campaign to secure funding to ensure that every child would be placed in a proper Jewish environment.
The Torah teaches us that our enemies are not merely those who threaten our physical existence, but those who threaten our spiritual existence as well. Throughout the generations, we faced those who would annihilate us physically and others who would be just as happy to see us disappear as Jews.
Rabbi Abramski called one wealthy Jewish industrialist and begged him for a donation sizable enough to ensure that the children would be raised in proper Jewish environment. "It is pikuach nefesh!" cried Rabbi Abramski. At that point, the tycoon became incensed. "Rabbi," he said, "Please do not use that term flippantly. I know what pikuach nefesh is. Pikuach nefesh means a matter of life and death! When I was young, my parents were very observant. When my baby sister was young, she was very sick. We had
We understand matters of life and death, justice and injustice, war and peace, in corporeal terms. It is difficult to view spirituality in those terms as well.
What our enemies were unable to do to the Jewish people with bullets and gas, they have succeeded in doing with assimilation and spiritual attrition. People fail to equate the severity of spiritual disorders with those of a physical nature. They may scoff at a prohibited marriage in the eyes of the Torah, or seek a leniency to absolve themselves from following matrimonial law, yet they will leave no stone unturned in searching for a genetic incompatibility or suspect health issue. The Torah teaches us that the two the physical world and the spiritual world are inseparable. An attack on spirituality, breaches the borders of our very essence, and our response must be in kind. It is essential to know that when we do some serious soul-searching there is really something out there waiting to be found.
by Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky
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CLOSE TO 1000 RALLY IN LOS ANGELES IN SUPPORT OF SHOLOM MORDECHAI RUBASHKIN In a tremendous display of support, sympathy and unity nearly 1000 people gathered Monday evening at Moshe Ganz Hall in Los Angeles to Daaven on behalf of Reb Sholom Mordechai Rubashkin. The main ballroom was full with standing room only, with many attendees choosing to sit in the overflow room. The tone of the evening was set by the MC, Los Angeles businessman and noted philanthropist Shlomo Yehuda Rechnitz. He began by expressing his amazement at the remarkable diversity of the crowd and how inspiring this unity was. He then proceeded to outline the many injustices of the case and how disproportionate the proposed sentence is. The entire crowd stood as Rabbi Berish Goldenberg, Principal at Yeshiva Rav Isaacson, led the crowd in reciting Tehillim verse by verse. Rabbi Yaakov Krause, Mara D’asra of Young Israel of Hancock Park, spoke about the legendary kindness of Reb Sholom Mordechai and the entire Rubashkin family. He reminisced meeting with the Rubashkin family in the Catskill Mountains and recalled how impressed he was with their support of a camp for special needs children and the extraordinary Mesirus Nefesh the family’s patriarch Rabbi Chazanow had as Schochet in Russia. Meir Simcha Rubashkin, son of Reb Sholom Mordechai, followed by describing the difficulty the Rubashkin children are having adjusting to life without their beloved father. He shared a letter that his father wrote during the verdict expressing his steadfast, unwavering faith in Hashem. The evening concluded with Rabbi Ezra Binyomin Schochet, Rosh Yeshivah at Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon Chabad. He discussed the importance of not only being inspired by Reb Sholom Mordechai, but using the inspiration to make actual improvements in our personal Avodas Hashem. The event was well attended by a cross-section of the entire Greater Los Angeles community area with a strong representation of local Rabbonim, Roshei Kollel and Yeshivos. The evening ended at approximately 11pm.
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arshas Masei discusses the sojourns of Klal Yisrael through the desert. It focuses on the many stops that the Jewish nation made, hinting at the ensuing incidents that occurred with each stop.
DEAD FIRST
But one verse seems to divert attention from the Jews' travels and chooses to focus on a scene occurring miles away. The Torah tells us that "the Jews journeyed from Ramses on the fifteenth day of the first month and went forth with a Yad Ramah to the eyes of all Egyptians" (Numbers 33:3). The Torah then inserts a seemingly irrelevant detail, one that seems to be insignificant if not anticlimactic in proportion to the great tragedy that befell the Egyptians and the miraculous Exodus of the Jews. It reverts to a scene that takes place back in Mitzrayim as the Jews were a few days into their escape from Egypt. "The Egyptians were burying their dead and in their gods Hashem meted justice". Isn't that a mere detail in history? Why even mention it? In fact if we were to mention anything, the Torah should write "and the Egyptians were mourning their first born-dead whom Hashem miraculously smote on the prior night." It seems that the Torah placed this posuk in this place as a significant lesson a part of the lessons of the Exodus. In the famous work, A Tzaddik in our Times, Simcha Raz relates an amazing story about Rabbi Aryeh Levin, the tzadik of Jerusalem: It was mid-May 1948, bombs were raining on central Jerusalem, no street was safe and no home a haven. Yet it was during a bomb attack that Samuel Weingarten, a bank cashier who volunteered for civil defense, spotted the holy sage Rabbi Aryeh Levin, maneuvering his way, dodging craters below and bombs from above, in a desperate effort to get somewhere. His steps were careful and calculated and he strode with confidence with a clear destination in mind. "Rabbi!" he shouted above the din. "Where are you going? A Jew must guard his soul! They are shooting at us! Get inside a shelter!" Rabbi Levin was not fazed. "I am on my way to do the greatest mitzvah. There are forty deceased souls in the Bikur Cholim Hospital, with no one to guard them. The only watchmen are the human jackals who cut their
PARSHAS MATOS - MASEI finger to remove their jewelry. I am rounding up volunteers to guard them. The bombs will have to find different addresses." In addition to exacting every detail of how a Jew should live their life, the Torah is also a guidebook to an entire world on what is ethically correct. The foundations set in the Torah of myriad principles found the core of ethical behavior even to the basest of people.
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Murder, incest, and other abominable acts are deplored in the Torah. Some are denoted with the words toaivah, abominable, others with depictions of Heavenly retribution, whether it be the Flood or the destruction of S'dom. Those stories are lessons for civilization. They are standards required for every inhabitant of planet Earth. Those aspects of the Torah July 2, 2 0 1 0
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serve as a moral compass. They come together with the ethos of kindness and compassion that can be surely garnered by those who are students of the Torah. So if we take a step back in time and understand what was going on in the minds of the Egyptians, and what the Torah deems important to mention, perhaps we can garner another moral lesson that may better inspire our generation of proper values. Imagine! For 210 years the Jews were captive in Egypt. Despite miraculous plagues, never heard of or seen before in the history of civilization, the Egyptians held on. They were not letting go!! Not a threat of disaster, nor its execution cracked their resolve nor diminished the Egyptians' desire to maintain their hold on the Jews. Not blood, boils, locust or any other plague, shook their resolve. Even when the Jews finally left, the Egyptians chased after them. But not immediately. The Torah tells us that something else was more important. Something was worth giving the Jews an enormous head-start. Something was worth losing the very nation that their first-born gave their lives to keep all for one staid principle. The honor and burial of the dead. Perhaps the Torah talks to civilization. It tells the world what was important, even to a nation that had no qualms about the indenture of another people. No matter how long it took, no matter the financial ramifications, no matter the loss of power and prestige in giving the Jews a long head-start. It did not matter. Honor the smitten. Bury the dead. And so the Torah tells us that despite the political ramifications that occurred with the Exodus, something else was on Egypt's mind. Maybe the actions of that primitive nation should give the world a perspective about what really matters. If an ancient nation was willing to give up its century-old national pride, the loss of the largest single work-force in history for the honor of the dead, shouldn't every nation give thought about their priorities as well? Shouldn't they keep the honor of those buried instead of a shopping mall, a new roadway, or even the prestigious honor that a place in a museum bestows? We may not learn many great moral lessons from the Egyptians, but this one we all can. Even if in the war of wits you come in dead last, in the war of morality make sure it's dead first. •
by Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky
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YESHIVA GEDOLAH OF LOS ANGELES CELEBRATES ANNUAL SIYUM Yeshiva Gedolah of Los Angeles held its Annual Siyum on June Gross, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Gedolah. In honor of the Siyum, 16, 2010. The Yeshiva, established over 30 years ago by Talmidim Rabbi Gross gave a Mazel Tov to the Talmidim of the Yeshiva for of Beis Medrash Gevoha, has grown to their accomplishments, as well as become a true Makom Torah in Los Anthanking the Yeshiva’s Rebbonim for all geles. The Yeshiva’s Talmidim continue of their efforts. Rabbi Gross spoke about their learning in the best yeshivas in Eretz how remarkable it is that Mr. Ryzman is Yisroel and America. The Siyum was to so deeply involved in his learning while mark the completion of Meseches Kerunning a successful company. He dushin. One Talmid from each class repremarked, “…there is no such thing as resented his grade and participated in the having a discussion with Zvika that Siyum. This year’s Siyum was L’zacher doesn’t include a Halacha, a Chidush, or Nishmas Mr. Yankel Kornwasser, a”h, some new insight in Machuva. Not only a long time leader of the Los Angeles is he so enthusiastic about his learning, L to R: Rabbi Eliezer Gross, Rosh Yeshiva; Community. but Tzvika has the ability to transfer his Rabbi Benzion Twerski, Rabbi of Cong. Bais enthusiasm to all the balabatim who Yehuda; and Zvika Ryzman Mr. Kornwasser was one of the attend his shiurim throughout the week.” founding members of the Torah One of the balabatim, Dr. Steven Weiss, Community in Los Angeles. He was a represented the many balabatim who Talmid Chacham, as well as a supporter attend the shiurim. Dr. Steven Weiss, a and prominent member of the many prominent physician in Los Angeles, a Torah institutions in Los Angeles. Along long-time friend and supporter of with his brother, Y.B.L. Mr. Motel Yeshiva Gedolah, and a personal friend Kornwasser, Mr. Kornwasser was also of Tzvika’s, spoke of the beauty of one of the founders of the Bobova learning with Tzvika, and the Hakaras Community in New York. Both were HaTov that the balabatim have for his recently honored for helping to rebuild the time and dedication in learning with Talmidim and guests at the Siyum Bobov Community in America after the them. Dr. Weiss also remarked that war. Mrs. Kornwasser continues her although, from time to time, they have the husband’s legacy, recently dedicating a zechus to hear prominent Rebbeim and Yeshiva Katana in Los Angeles, Yeshivas Roshei Yeshivas speak, nothing compares Aaron Yaakov, named after her husband. to the excitement that Tzvika can generate The Siyum was hosted by Mr. when giving his shiurim. He said, “… Kornwasser’s daughter and son-in-law, everyone feels like they are being Mr. & Mrs. Tzvika Ryzman. Mr. & transported into a different world – a Mrs. Ryzman are prominent supporters of world of Torah.” Torah institutions both in the United Mr. Eli Ryzman, grandson of Mr. States and in Eretz Yisroel. Mr. Ryzman Kornwasser and son of Mr. & Mrs. is a Talmid Chacham who was Mechaber L to R: Dr. Steven Weiss, guest speaker; Ryzman, spoke on behalf of the family. many Sefarim on Inyanim of Halacha and Zvika Ryzman; and Rabbi Gross He gave heartwarming words about his Machshava. He is renowned for his Torah grandfather who who had accomplished knowledge, as well as his many shiurim so much. Mr. Ryzman said that which he gives to balabatim in the everything his grandfather did was L’Shame Shamayim, and that community. Mr. Ryzman’s reputation as a Talmid Chacham and as he was driven to do everything possible to rebuild what was a supporter of Torah is known in Eretz Yisroel as well as in Los destroyed during the Holocaust. Angeles. Mrs. Ryzman is also very active in the Jewish Community, and is a major supporter of the Etta Israel Center for children with The main speaker of the evening was Rabbi Bentzion Twerski special needs. She was instrumental in the establishment of its boys who serves as the Rabbi of Congregation Bais Yehuda in program, Ner Yaakov which is named after her father, and helps Milwaukee. Rabbi Twerski praised Mr. Kornwasser and the to maintain this program, as well as other Etta Israel projects, on Kornwasser-Ryzman Family for all of their accomplishments. He an ongoing basis. also took note of the fact that the Siyum was being held in the beautiful Ryzman Beis Medrash, which is just one more example The Siyum’s program began with remarks from Rabbi Eliezer of the family building Torah in America. •
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Three Weeks Laws and Customs A 21 Day Period of National Mourning For eight hundred and thirty years there stood an edifice upon a Jerusalem hilltop which served as the point of contact between heaven and earth. So central was this edifice to the relationship between man and G-d that nearly two-thirds of the mitzvot are contingent upon its existence. Its destruction is regarded as the greatest tragedy of our history, and its rebuilding will mark the ultimate redemption-the restoration of harmony within G-d's creation and between G-d and His creation. A full three weeks of our year--the three weeks "between the strictures" of Tammuz 17 and Av 9--are designated as a time of mourning over the destruction of the Holy Temple and the resultant galut--physical exile and spiritual displacement--in which we still find ourselves. In this period, many calamities befell the Jewish people throughout the generations. It was during this period of between the straits that both the first and second Temples were destroyed.
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During this period, we lessen the extent of our rejoicing. We don't: •Conduct weddings. (Engagement parties – without music – are allowed until Rosh Chodesh Av.) • Play musical instruments or listen to music. •Recite the Shehecheyanu blessing. Thus, we do not wear new clothing or eat fruit which we have not yet eaten this season so that we will not be required to recite Shehecheyanu. •Take a haircut or shave. Many Sephardic communities permit haircuts and shaving until the week of Tisha b'Av (in other words, until the Saturday night before the fast). (Speak to your rabbi if there are extenuating circumstances that prevent you from observing any of the above customs.) Shabbat All the laws of mourning are suspended
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on Shabbat. This includes the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av themselves—when they fall on Shabbat, the fast days are postponed until Sunday, and the Shabbat is joyously celebrated. These Shabbats we must increase our joy, and add an extra tasty dish to our meals, to emphasize that we are not in a state of mourning. On the first Shabbat of the Three Weeks (or on the 17th of Tammuz itself, if it falls on Shabbat) we always read the Torah portion of Pinchas. The end of the reading discusses the three Jewish festivals. It has been said amongst chassidim that this alludes to the idea that the three Shabbats of the Three Weeks are to be celebrated on par with the three festivals... Why is all mourning suspended on Shabbat? Though these days and weeks heralded an exile rife with persecution and spiritual estrangement, it is our belief that ultimately this is for the good. Very soon, with the
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coming of Moshiach, we will understand that all the suffering was necessary in order to reach the ultimate good. At that time, the prophets foretell, these sorrowful days will be transformed into days of joy (see Breaking Walls for more on this topic). Every Shabbat constitutes a foretaste of the Messianic Era. As such, on Shabbat we only focus on the positive element of this period. Determination to Rebuild Aside for the aforementioned "technical" rules and restrictions, during this period we spend extra time contemplating the less-thanperfect state the world is in now and what we can do to improve it by increasing in deeds of goodness and kindness. Three Weeks should be a time of increased Torah study and giving of charity– in keeping with the verse, "Zion shall be redeemed by law, and her returnees by charity." Particularly the study of those portions of Torah that deal with the building of the Holy Temple. The Three Weeks should be a time of increased Torah study and giving of charity. Why these laws? In the Midrash, G‑d told the Prophet Ezekiel to instruct the then exiled Jewish People about the measurements and design of the third Holy Temple: "Master of the world," Ezekiel replied, "why are You telling me to go and tell Israel the form of the House; they are now in exile in the land of our enemies—is there anything they can do
about it? Let them be until they return from the exile. Then, I will go and inform them." G‑d answered: "Should the construction of My House be ignored because My children are in exile? The study of the design of the Holy Temple as detailed in the Torah can be equated to its actual construction. Go tell them to study the form of the Holy Temple. As a reward for their study and their occupation with it, I will consider it as if they actually built the Holy Temple." It is our generation in particular, that stands on the threshold of Redemption, that must study these laws with the awareness that these laws will be quite practical in the imminent future! From Destruction to Renewal But there is more to the Three Weeks than fasting and lamentation. The prophet describes the fasts as "days of goodwill before G-d"days of opportunity to exploit the failings of the past as the impetus for a renewed and even deeper bond with G-d. A sense of purification accompanies the fasting, a promise of redemption pervades the mourning, and a current of joy underlies the sadness. The Ninth of Av, say our sages, is not only the day of the Temple's destruction--it is also the birthday of Moshiach. May we soon merit the fulfillment of the prophecy: "I will turn their mourning into joy and will comfort them and make them rejoice from their sorrow" (Jeremiah 31:12). •
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SPECIAL FORCES, IDF STRESS MANAGEMENT TRAINING AT CHABAD OF BRENTWOOD The room was quiet, the atmosphere, intimidating. Sighs of pain could clearly be heard. Over 100 people, just finished a lavish Friday night meal, were instructed to stand up next to their Shabbat tables and stretch their arms out while holding full and heavy water bottles in each hand. A few seconds into the exercise, the pain became apparent and, as a result, arms started to bend down. “It is too painful” someone moaned quietly from one corner. “Keep your arms straight and stretched out!” - the crowd was instructed in a commandeering, army-like, manner - “Focus on your goal! ignore the pain! Stay in control of your emotions!”. With the increasing pain, people’s minds were occupied with one question: when will this exercise end?
10 years of serious study of Torah and Chassidic teachings to perfect and market Mind In Control techniques. His goal is to empower individuals and professionals around the globe to address emotional responses to triggers, like stress, thus, significantly improve personal and corporate performance. "All of us are exposed to some level of stress,” says Dr. Heart. “It can take place at work or at home, with friends or family, employer or employees. Stress is often related to finances, health or relationships. You do not have to find yourself in life-threatening situations in the IDF to learn and practice Mind In Control. It can be practiced by anyone and in practically any situation." The Shabbaton began on Friday afternoon with the traditional Friday evening prayer. A delicious 4-course dinner was served, then an introduction to and basic Mind In Control exercises were presented. Attendees actively participated in the lecture and exercises and stayed behind for a long Q&A session.
The above was not taken from a suspense movie or a horror novel. Earlier this month, during a Shabbaton organized by Rabbi and Rebbetzin Hecht, Chabad of Brentwood, participants were taught and trained in Mind In Control - a skilled method of controlling emotional responses to internal and external triggers, such as anger, anxiety and fear.
The next day, following davening and a wonderful Shabbat lunch, the Mind In Control Shabbaton continued with 90 minutes of mental and physical exercises. Participants were taught and trained to remain in control of their emotional responses to stress and respond calmly under mental and physical pressure.
The instructor, Dr. Gill Heart, served for over 6 years Gill Heart, PhD in a Special Forces Commando unit in the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) before going on to earn a PhD degree in Bio-Medical Engineering. During his army training and service, Dr. Heart learned to maximize and successfully maintain In one exercise, a participant had to make his way through rows of his performance even under extreme circumstances. human blockades while blindfolded, not allowing the commotion to discourage him from reaching his destination. In another, one particiLater, as a Captain in the IDF, Gill trained and led other soldiers in pant stood in front of two others while focusing on a specific, pre-despecial operations. Dr. Heart says about his specialty, "Special operatermined thought process. The two then engaged him in full tions require dealing with stressful circumstances. Being physically fit conversation, while he attempted to remain focused on his thoughts helps, but falls short of being the solution. Ironically, it is all in your mind!" Participants reported that they thoroughly enjoyed the Mind In Control Shabbaton. Some reported, after-the-fact, that they decided to imFollowing a series of entrepreneurial projects over the past decade, plement some of the techniques into their personal and business daily Dr. Heart decided to combine his military expertise, education, and his lives. • Dr. Gill Heart offers Mind In Control seminars and workshops to businesses and organizations, across the US, Europe and Israel. For more information, please contact: Gill@MindInControl.net/ or, for West Coast Mind In Control operations - Simone@MindInControl.net/
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Engagements Ziva Cohen & Benny Gabay Sarah Levin & Yoni Lehrer Aliza Hobb & Joey Aryeh Chana Sarles & Jordan Kaplowitz Michelle Gres & Ephie Nissenfeld Chaya Karnowsky & Yehushua Einbender
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Births - Girls Ahuva & Shlomo Gurwitz Aliza & Eli Scharf Mordy & Ilanit Gluckowsky Dina & Avi Weller Shoshana Rivka & Eli Bloom Jacquiline & Alain Kuppermann Miriam & Michy Rav-Noy Shaindy & Donny Abbott
Send us your mazel tovs to info@communitylinks.info
Calfornia Kosher Kitchen Rigatoni with Red Pepper, Almonds and Bread Crumbs Ingredients • 1 pound rigatoni pasta • 3 cups purchased garlic-flavored croutons • 1/4 cup slivered almonds (about 1 ounce), toasted • 1 cup julienned roasted red bell peppers • 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Directions Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain pasta into a large bowl. Place the croutons and the almonds in a food processor. Pulse until it becomes the texture of bread crumbs. Add the crouton and almond mixture to the hot pasta. Add the peppers and the olive oil. Toss to combine and serve.
FRIDAY, JULY 2, 2010 Light Candles at: 7:51 pm ••• FRIDAY, JULY 9, 2010 Light Candles at: 7:50 pm ••• FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2010 Light Candles at: 7:47 pm
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1. A plate on the front table is missing. 2. The back doorway is shorter. 3. One of the over-head light-bulbs is missing. 4. The letters on the clock have been changed to numbers. 5. Books are missing from one of the shelfs. 6. The door divider in the back is missing. 7. The back of the chair of the guy sitting in the front is higher. 8. A pink tie has been changed to blue. 9. The dedication on the bookcase is missing. 10. The wine glasses on the front table have been moved.
qq qq qq qq qq CHANGES KEEP SCORE
10 Info@communitylinks.info
Please email us your event pictures to Double Take pictures!
YOUR
YESHIVA GEDOLA SIYUM Yeshiva Gedolah of Los Angeles held its Annual Siyum on June 16, 2010. The Yeshiva, established over 30 years ago by Talmidim of Beis Medrash Gevoha, has grown to become a true Makom Torah in Los Angeles.
Can you spot the differences in these two pictures?
DoubleTake
CLASSIFIEDS
To place an ad CALL 323-965-1544 FOR SALE
SERVICES
GIFTS
NOTARY
A Perfect Setting Great gifts for all occasions- invited out for a Shabbos meal? Baby gifts...Bas Mitzvah g i f t s . . . We d d i n g gifts...House warming gifts...Don't put it off. Come in today and go out relieved. Call for a special appointment
323-938-8222 or 323-6203618 ask for Rochel -692-
WEDDING SHTICK “Shticky Business" Shtick rental for all Simchas. Reasonable rates, beautiful one of a kind items. Arches, Umbrellas, Balloons, Mazel Tov signs, Pom Poms & more. Call Rivky at 323-997-5968
TRAVELING NOTARY
Yosef Y. Shagalov:
Traveling Notary Public & Home Signing Agent.
Cell:(323)934-7095 email: yys770@aol.com
BEAUTY -1540-
Robin Schultz Ackerman will help you eliminate unwanted hair! Doctor referred over 10 years in the community. Reasonable rates, Flexible hours open Sundays by appt.
Channa Tellis Dress Maker & Expert Alterations with 40 yrs of exp. Now selling & renting bridal dresses. Shaitel hair extensions, & also available for Sewing Classes.
Professional and loyal service using new advanced technology & techniques. Acne & Anti Aging Expert. Artistic Permanent Makeup. Body Waxing New Customers: Deep Facial $49 For a free consultation call today:
(310) 657-8081
MUSIC
Call anytime for an appt.
SERVICES DRESS MAKER
SERVICES
BRIS - ,hrc Traditional Ritual Circumcision Rabbi Nachman B. Kreiman Certified Mohel vjnun kvun
BANDS
Please Call 323-933-5960 or 323-348-8786
Eli's One Man Band for all your simchas and special events. For more info Please call Eli Stiefel
310-462-5368 or email elistiefel@gmail.com
-298-
-1510-
PSYCHOTHERAPY For adults, couples, adolescents. Issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships. Gila Shapiro MA, MFT 323883-1777 Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. Email: gilasmft@gmail.com
-1438-
COMPUTER REPAIR
COMPUTER Repair & Training PC, Laptop & Mac 310-770-5772 Email:IT@72 SYSTEM.COM
MusicbyMendel.com WEDDINGS, BAR-MITZVAHS, SPECIAL OCCASIONS. CONTACT NOW FOR AVAILABILITY AND RATES
310-595-5490 MENDELS@GMAIL.COM
What do I do when my child (fill in your least acceptable behavior)? Take the best parenting class in town to learn how to deal with misbehavior, discouragement and poor school performance. In addition, acquire all the skills necessary to raise confident, independent, and responsible children. Appropriate for ages 0-5, 6-11, and teens. Individual or group sessions. Affordable. Call Irine Schweitzer, LCSW for more information, www.parentingbyirine.com
July 2, 2 0 1 0
• 323-965-1544 •
A Time f o r Dance JOIN THE FUN THIS SUMMER! come join the fun!! Offering Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Gymnastics, Modern, Kickboxing, Acting, Singing and more! Girls and Women. All levels available. 3 convenient locations. Beverly / Labrea, Pico/Robertson and North Hollywood (323) 404-0827 www. atime4dance.com -
BOOKKEEPING
For all your bookkeeping needs
@ 818 754-4501. -1548-
Raizy Grossman 310-279-2139
CAREER TRAINING PROGRAMS Are you Unemployed and collecting Unemployment Benefits? FULL Financial Aid is available to unemployed individuals. Receive career training at NO COST to YOU. These funds are available through President Obama’s Economic Stimulus Package. Act now while funds are available. Los Angeles ORT Technical Institute has several Nationally Accredited Career Training Programs. Please call 323-966-5444. Ask for Flora or Jesse. -784www.LAORT.edu
800.998.2678 44
WORKSHOPS/CLASSES
Parenting With Wisdom
GUITAR INSTRUCTION Private Lessons or small Group (323)934-2448. Learn the Univeral Language of Music with a Jewish Accent!
Home: 323.934.9329 Cell: 323.896.5098 www.expertmohel.com
WORKSHOPS/CLASSES
Community Links for all your Graphic Design needs! 323.956.1544 BE INFORMED Sign up today to receive the Community Links, Community Alerts, & Community exclusive updates directly to your inbox. Send your email information to
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CLASSIFIEDS NEW DAILY MINYAN
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
Chabad Sola. Mon - Fri, at 8.30AM. 1627 S La Cienega Blvd, opposite Cheder Menachem. If you are interested and could commit to be part of this new Minyan please contact R Menashe at 646 258 6881 or at menashe.borbely@gmail.com.
FOR RENT IN ISRAEL
Jewish Tehachapi Torah Center(ed Community): Suited for families, individuals, and existing Torah org a n i z a t i o n s . H e a l t h y, Serene, Affordable, Child Friendly. Relax, Recharge, Learn. Vacation or Year Round. Advise interest now for: Summer Camp, Torah Retreats, Regular Minyan.. Join Rabbi Hershy's Open Yeshiva on the 13 Principles of Faith Sundays 11AM. 'Twice the House for Half the Money' Priced from: House - $130,000. Co-Op - $65,000. Lot $30,000. Lease: House $800, Apartment $600, Room $400. Contact Roger M.: kernkehilla@att.net 310948-5137.
REAL ESTATE
Beverly Hills Adjacent Home for Sale 5 Bedroom 3.5 Bath Luxury Home, Marble floors, Lrg Luxury Granite Kitchen, huge living/dining room w/vaulted ceilings, Wet Bar, 2 Master S u i t e s , Jacuzzi, Laundry, Sauna, basketball court. Lots of Built-ins.
Call Daniel @ (310) 925 - 9972 FOR SALE
Bev/La Brea - 4bd, Pool Guest Apt. Kosher Kit. OPEN HSE 6/20 2-5pm www.Love-ThisHome.com Free Recorded Info: 800-417-7489 ID#8001 Miller Real Estate 310.210.3038
BNEI BRAKISRAEL 4 BR. 2 1/2 bath big living room. dining area. private home. close to shuls and shops. $3000. CHILD CARE / ADULT DAY CARE: PRIME SPACE AVAILABLE
Chabad of Beverlywood located at 1952 S Robertson Blvd has space available for rent during the week. Prime location suitable for a daycare or senior programs. The yard includes modern child play equipment (climbing structure, slides) and swings. 7,500 sq. ft. play yard. 10,000 sq. ft. indoor space. (Rent all or part). rabbidov@chabad.com FOR RENT
One bedroom for rent with private bathroom, separate entrance, laundry and kosher kitchen available. Utilities included. Month to month contract with month security. References please. Call David at Home: 323-934-4826. Cell: 323-687-4154
ARCHITECT
DRE Lic. #963418
FOR RENT Master bedroom with private restroom & entrance. Female applicants only. Contact Sarah @ 310409-3327 or Rachel: 310-210-2691 45
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ARCHITECT Lawrence Woodcraft, AIA New Homes Additions & Remodels Guest Houses HPOZ Approvals Free Initial Consultations
818-701-7752 License # C23651 www.woodcraftarchitecture.com
Next Advertising Deadline
July 9, 2010 Circulation
July 16, 2010 Please call
323.965.1544 or email us at
info@communitylinks.info
http://www.pearlmancta.co m/TehachapiJewish.htm GUEST HOUSE FOR RENT Brand new two bedroom guest house available in Pico/Robertson area. Kitchen, Bathroom, & Small Living room. $1,000 monthly. 818-508-8811 or 310-772-0702 GUEST HOUSE FOR RENT Very nice guest house for rent, furnished, kosher kitchenette, own private entrance, Beverly/La Brea area, female applicant only. Judy @ 323-363-8337 JOB OPPORTUNITY
High School Teachers: Seeking experienced English and History Teacher(s) for part-time afternoon position. Sundays thru Thursdays, 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Please send resume to info@YGLA.org • 323-965-1544 •
EMPLOYMENT DISTRIBUTOR WANTED A SEROIUS DISTRIBUTOR NEEDED FOR NEW OMEGA3, MADE FROM PLANT, GET REAL HEALTH CHANGES; EXCEMA, ACNE, BRAIN FUNCTION AND MORE 347-622-0513
SALES PERSON WANTED
Excellent Opportunity for highly motivated sales person to work for growing business. Create your own hours. Work from home. For further information please email us at info@community links.info Ref #1980
BABYSITTER AVAILABLE
Orthodox woman available to watch your children full time or part-time hours, at your location. Excellent references. 323-651-9389 POSITION WANTED
A young, organized, reliable woman looking for a teaching position in elementry schools. Has experience working with kids. Knows to speak hebrew and english. 310-497-4843 info@communitylinks.info
Dining Guide Listing Please Call 323-965-1544 MEAT Afshan Restaurant RCC 106 W. 9th St. LA, (213) 622-1010 Bocca Steakhouse RCC 16610 Ventura. Encino, 91436 (818) 905-5855 Café Del Mar Meat Kehila 12526 Burbank Blvd. N.H. 91607 (818) 487-8171 Chic N Chow Kehila 9301 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 274-5595 Chinese and Kabob Kehila 9180 Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 274-4007 Circa RCC 433 N. Fairfax Avenue, LA, 90036 323-653-1941 Cohen’s Restaurant RCC 316 E Pico Blvd # F LA, CA 90015 (213) 742-8888 Delice Bistro Kehila 8581 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 289-1702 Elat Burger Ben Zaken 9340 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 278-4692 Elite Cuisine RCC 7119 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90036 (323) 930-1303 Bukstan Falafel Express 5577 Reseda Blvd. Tarzana, 9135 (818) 345-5660
Falafel Grill Chabad 5611 Kanan R. Agoura Hills, 91301 (818) 991-8799 Glatt Hut RCC 9303 W. Pico Blvd. 90035 (310) 246-1900 Golan RCC 13075 Victory Blvd. N. H, 91606 (818) 763-5344 Got Kosher? RCC 8914 W. Pico Blvd. 90035 (310) 858-1920 Habayit Bukstan 11921 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90064 (310) 479-5444
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DINING GUIDE
Haifa Ben Zaken 8717 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 888-7700
Temptation Grill Kehila 17547 Ventura B. Encino, 91316 (818) 995-4700
Milk N Honey RCC 8837 West Pico Blvd LA, 90035 (310) 858-8850
Jeffs Gourmet Kehila 8930 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 858-8590
The Meating Place KCA 30313 Canwood St. AH, 91301 (818) 706-1255
Milky Way Kehila 9108 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 859-0004
Kosher Chicks RCC 186081/2Ventura Blvd. Tarzana, 91356 (818) 343-8800
Tierra Sur at Herzog Winery 3201 Camino DelSol Oxnard (818) 752-6866
Nagilla Pizza Kehila 9411 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 788-0111
La Gondola Kehila 9025 Wilshire Blvd. BH, 90211 (310) 247-1239
Smokin’ Rabbi Furst 12514 Burbank Boulevard, Valley Village, CA 91607 (805) 983-1560
La Glatt RCC 446 Fairfax Ave. LA, 90036 (323) 658-7730
ou
Nana Cafe RCC 1509 S Robertson Blvd. (310) 407-0404 Pico Cafe Kehila 8944 W Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 310-385-9592
DAIRY
Mashu Mashu RCC 12510 Burbank Blvd. 91607 (818)752-ASIA (2742)
Beverly Cafe Elite RCC 7113 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90035 (323) 931-3563
Pizza Maven Kehila 140 North La Brea Blvd. 90036 (323) 857-0353
Metro Glatt RCC 8975 W. Pico Blvd. 90035 (310) 275-4420
Bibis Warmstone Kehila 8928 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 246-1788
Pizza Nosh Rabbi Ami Markel 30313 Canwood St. A.H. 91301 (818) 991-3000
Nagilla Meating Place Kehila 9407 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 788-0119
Bramis Pizza
(818) 342-0611
Pizza Station Kehila 8965 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 276-8708
Café Del Mar Dairy Kehila 12526 Burbank Blvd. N.H. 91607 (818) 487-8171
Pizza World Kehila 365 Fairfax Ave. LA, 90036 (323) 653-2896
Circa RCC 8622 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles (310) 854-0592
Sassis Sushi Kehila 16550 Ventura, Encino, 91436 (818) 783-2727
Delice Kehila 8583 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 289-6556
Shalom Pizza RCC 8715 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 271-2255
Orange Delight Kehila 13628 Ventura Blvd. SO, 91423 (818) 788-9896 Pats Kehila 9233 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 205-8705 Pico Kosher Deli RCC 8826 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 273-9381 Pita Way RCC 8532 Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 652-5236 Sassis Kehila 15622 Ventura, Encino, 91436 (818) 986-5345 Shanghai Kehila 9401 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 553-0998 Shilohs Kehila 8939 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 858-1652 Subway Kehila 8948 W Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 274-1222 Sunrise RCC 9216 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 786-8282
RCC
17736 ShermanWay, Reseda 91326
PAREVE
Fish Grill Kehila 7226 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90036 (323) 937-7162 12013 Wilshire Blvd. LA, 90025 (310) 479-1800 9618 W. Pico Blvd. 90035 (310) 860-1182 22935 Pacific Coast Highway (310) 456-8585
Unique Cafe Rabbi Aron Simkin 18381 Ventura Blvd. Tarzana (818) 757-3100
Jerusalem Pizza Kehila 17942 Ventura Blvd. Encino, CA 91316
(818) 758-9595
Le Sushi 12524 Burbank Blvd N.H. 91607 (818) 763-6600
La Brea Bagel Kehilla 7308 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90036 (323) 965-1287 La Pizza Rabbi Furst 12515 Burbank Blvd. N.H, 91607 (818) 760-8198
• 323-965-1544 •
Fish In The Village RCC 12450 Burbank Blvd. N.H, 91607 (818) 769-0085
SushiKo RCC 9340 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 274-3474
info@communitylinks.info
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Incentive grants now available for all children! Call Now! (310) 622-8030
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