The Community Links Issue 172

January 14-January 28, 2011

Vol. 8 Issue 172

Touro College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges: 985 Atkantic Ave. #100, CA 94501: Tel. 510-748-9001. Touro College is an Equal Opportunity Institution.

t�ga, ur,h - jkac ,arp

Dear Readers and Advertisers, Community Links Magazine has just completed its seventh year of successful magazine publishing within the greater Los Angeles Jewish Community. We are extremely grateful to all of our growing readership, exceptional authors and wonderful advertisers for their continued support.

Our goal from the very beginning has been for individuals and families to be able to bring home a magazine full of significant and important Jewish Community information, and for our publication to be filled with Torah learning and values, including numerous stories and wide-ranging articles that reach out to and affect the Jewish neshama (soul).

As we begin our 8th year, we are planning to incorporate many of the ideas and suggestions that have come directly from you, our valued readers.

Thank you so very much for allowing the Community Links Magazine to be a part of your lives.

With grateful appreciation, The Community Links Team

2

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

MAKEUP APPLIC APPLICATION CATION

COSMETICS

SKIN CARE

WAXING W AXIN NG

SHABBOS MAKEUP MAKE UP

makeup m akeup a salon salon

GRAND GRA AND D OPENING OPE ENING G

JAN JA AN

19TH 19

Wednesday, W edne esday, 8pm C Come view the beautiful beauttiful New Makeup Salon S and our off cosmetics and o full f ll line li cosme etics ti d allll natural t l skin skin ki care.

Discover Diiscover all the wonderful wonde erful services we have hav ve to offer, offer, while e enjoying a fine wine e and cheese/dessert cheese/dessert reception.

C HANI SUFR CHANI SUFRIN RIN 323.251.7324 323.251.732 24 612 N. Alta Vista V Blvd. LA 90036 6

3

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Features January 14, 2011 Next Advertising Deadline January 21, 2011 Circulation January 28, 2011

34

38

Media Kit & Pricing 323.965.1544 Email info@communitylinks.info News & Press Releases press@communitylinks.info Virtual Subscription subscribe@communitylinks.info

8

THE COMMUNITY LINKS is published biweekly and is distributed free to the Jewish Community of Southern California.

THE COMMUNITY LINKS accepts no responsibility for typographical errors or reliability of Kashrus of any advertisers. All submissions become the property of THE COMMUNITY LINKS and may be shortened and/or edited for length and clarity. Articles published in THE COMMUNITY LINKS express the views of the individual writers and may not necessarily represent the views of THE COMMUNITY LINKS. No artwork or any part of the magazine may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permissions of the publisher.

Reporting from Israel

The experience at the Kotel on Erev Shabbat remains a “peak experience.” Visiting Israel at a time of vacation in the United States means more people in Israel, as Israel was crowded with tens of thousands of vacationing tourists.

Dr. Robert Rome

Tu B’Shevat The Human Tree

14

Yield Right of Way

24

Why would they flee toward the waters? Wouldn't logic dictate that they run away from the waters?

Parsha Beshalach Rabbi Mordechai Kaminetzky

Post Partum Depression

The Torah tells us that "man is a tree of the field" (Devarim 20:19). Just as a tree is a symbol of growth, development and strength, we too are supposed to grow and develop during our lives.

I was irritable; I cried; I was exhausted, yet had trouble sleeping. Getting through each day seemed nearly impossible. My own children avoided me; my husband tiptoed around me. I was convinced that my family and the world would be better off without me.

Rabbi Reuven Wolf

Michal Finkelstien

34

community links • Volume 6 Issue 172 4

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

5

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Must present coupon Excludes all sale items Expires 1/31/11

WE DELIVER

6

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Robert J. Rome, Ph.D

Reporting from Israel Toward the end of a twoweek trip to Israel, I just returned to Jerusalem from three days up in the Galilee and in the Golan Heights.

This excursion and our other trips around Israel proved several things: 1. The infrastructure of Israel keeps developing. In the 3½ years since we were last in Israel, there are new roads which make travel up North much easier. Building is still taking place to expand highways and provide even more improvements. Oh, were the 405 only as smooth and easy as Highway 1 in Israel, let alone Highway 6, the newish toll road connecting North and South…

8

January 14, 2011

2. Jews are thriving in every part of Israel. There are new stores, new restaurants, and tourists everywhere. The economy and the people are strong.

3. Israel is just the right combination of old and new.

River rafting takes place going by archeological historical sites. Excavations showing thousands of years of history is actually under brand new buildings! Blending the past and present on your trip is a very natural thing to do.

4. The modern part of Israel keeps getting more modern. A spacious and beautiful outdoor mall with dozens of stores and restaurants, the

Mamilla Mall, backs right up to the Jaffa Gate, the entry into the Old City. Speaking of new in the midst of old…

5. Jerusalem remains the most spiritually special place around. Whether in the recently restored Four Sephardic synagogues, or the even more recently rebuilt Hurva synagogue, joining in with other Jews from throughout the world in prayer remains special, but in the new aesthetic surroundings of these restored places, the experience rises to an even higher level.

So much is new and different since our last visit just three years ago. Our Frommers

• 323-965-1544 •

Guide to Israel is woefully out of date, even though the edition was published in 2007. The ever present signs of recession and pessimism in the U.S. these days are not around in Israel. The only complaints of the cabdrivers in the city relate to the increasing hours of peak traffic on the streets of Jerusalem.

As in Los Angeles, the cab drivers search for back ways down relatively less busy residential streets to reach their destinations.

All is well, but not perfect.

With the booming economy of Israel, the Shekel’s value against the dollar has increased. This is good for Israel, but makes it more costly info@communitylinks.info

for tourists. Whenever possible, you walk two miles rather than take a cab to save on the $7-10 fare, as just one example how you seek to save on your trip because of the higher prices.

In the category of “The more things change, the more they remain the same,” there is still overeating at the Israeli breakfast. You still win at the game of Jewish geography as when someone asks you, do you know so-and-so in Los Angeles, you respond yes, because you really know that person. And you see people you know most everywhere you go in Israel, even as we went right up to the Lebanese border, we saw the family that had been seated next to us on the flight from the U.S. The experience at the Kotel on Erev Shabbat remains a “peak experience.” Visiting Israel at a time of vacation in the United States means more people in Israel, as Israel was crowded with tens of thousands of vacationing tourists.

The Kotel area was so full that hundreds had to wait for there to be more room next to the wall to enter the lower courtyard of the Western Wall.

What a moving experience!

The man next to me at the wall begin to cry as he uttered the first words of the afternoon Minchah service just before the sunsetting ushering in Shabbat. As he recited Ashrei Yoshvei Baisecha (he was a Hasid), there were tears flowing down his face. I am not totally sure whether the tears were for the fact that all of Jerusalem has not been rebuilt,

9

January 14, 2011

s xc

or whether he was crying because of the massive rebuilding already completed.

Shabbat was an overwhelming experience. Our first Shabbat saw us residing in the Sephardic Educational Center in Jerusalem. If only the walls could speak in this facility where the original residence and offices of the Sephardic Chief Rabbi were situated up until 1948. From the 300 year old courtyard to the beautifully refurbished suites and rooms, this building marks the beginning of the Jewish Quarter for those headed to the Kotel or other places in the Old City. Our stay coincided with the Christian holiday.

Seeing thousands of Jews walk to Shul or the Wall while bells tolled for the other religion’s holiday brought home the special qualities of Jerusalem universally.

Touring the Old City, you see reminders of how Jews were kept out of the Old City from the time that the Jordanian Army took the land in 1948 through the time of the re-capture of the land in 1967.

Israel encourages Christian celebrations on their holidays.

That same Friday had been a holy day for Muslims. Everyone is free to practice his or her religion in Jerusalem under Israeli control. The world does not appear to appreciate just how differently and special Israel treats the other religions, in sharp contrast to the expulsion of Jews from the lands which had been under Arab control between 1948 and 1967.

Newborns - 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 $51 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. R EGARDLESS OF IMMIGRATION STATUS OR DATE OR DATE OF ENTRY, A CHILD OR PREGNANT WOMAN CAN QUALIFY FOR SOME 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

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

The recently rebuilt Hurva synagogue tells the story of the Jewish people. Required by Israeli law, excavation must take place on property in the Old City which is being built or rebuilt to check for significant findings. Under the synagogue building are several stories which expose the ancient ruins that had been on that very site. At the time of the Second Temple, the place had been the site of the home of a Kohen (priest) with a large Mikveh (ritual bath). The priest appeared to live in relative luxury in this home connected by bridge to the Temple.

When the Romans conquered Jerusalem and ordered the Jews out, the home site became part of a walkway leading to the Cardo, or main boulevard in the Roman city. About 1500 years later, the home site became a large courtyard which became the center of Jewish population in the Moslem Jerusalem where Jews were welcome to return. Still another level saw the original synagogue building, followed by the building site for the nineteenth century synagogue, a building which lasted until bombed by the Jordanians in 1948.

For close to three millennia, this has been Jewish land. We Jews permitted churches and mosques to be built and for services to be conducted therein.

We did not blow up the religious shrines and holy places of the neighboring peoples. Yet, the Palestinians are seeking to end building by Jews in lands they controlled prior to 1967.

They want all Jews out. A trip to Israel confirms the Jewish story. This land in Jerusalem is part and parcel of our centuries’ old capital. The only “occupied territory” in Jerusalem occurred when the Romans seized the land from the Jews, and then when, centuries later, the Jordanians seized the land.

Whether the Sephardic synagogues, the Sephardic Educational Center, the Hurva Synagogue, or any of the other rebuilt complexes in Jerusalem, it is quite amazing that the area has been restored and remains a center of Jewish life, just as it had prior to 1948.

Archaeology in Israel is king. Art would serve as queen as fine art permeates Israel. At the seat of government in the Knesset Building are spectacular tapestries and mosaics of Marc Chagall. These works which re-

call the past, present, and future of the Jewish people, and indeed the entire world, serve as a backdrop for all state affairs. Quite impressive. And this is just one example of public art displayed in Israel.

One of the main preoccupations on any trip to Israel is the planning for what you will do on a subsequent trip back. We did not exhaust in our three-day excursion the sites to see in the North. While we saw new parts of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem, we have other sections to view on a subsequent trip. And we are due for another trip to the South of Israel.

I would be remiss if I did not add the most special part of the trip: Seeing our daughter Haviva who has been studying in Jerusalem since August. The experience of studying in Israel has been very good for her. No parent should think twice when their teenager asks to study for a year in Israel. It is a growth experience.

It becomes time to sign off. As Walter Cronkite said, “And that’s the way it is.” Until next time (and may we soon all be brought to Jerusalem with the coming of the Mashiach!). •

Robert J. Rome, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist in clinical practice in Encino, California.

He can be reached at RJRome@aol.com.

Maintenance Services for: Hot Water Systems, Boilers, Sewers and Drains Residential & Commercial

Call us to find out how to save money on your water bills!

Shomer Shabbas Eco-Friendly Serving the Greater Los Angeles Area and the Valley

10

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

11

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

BRING THIS AD ALONG WITH YOUR RECEIPT AND WE WILL PURCHASE A TREE IN YOUR NAME!

PURCHASE $100 WORTH OF PRODUCTS AND

WE WILL PLANT A TREE IN THE CARMEL FOREST UNDER YOUR NAME !

NAME:____________________________ PHONE:___________________________

ADDRESS:_______________________________

Why stand on line when you can shop online??? www.glattmart.net www.cambridgefarmskosher.com Look us up on NOT VALID WITH OTHER OFFERS OR DISCOUNTS VALID UNTIL 12.31.10* TO RECEIVE THIS OFFER YOU MUST PRESENT THIS AD.

12 J a n u a r y 1 4 , 2 0 1 1

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

PASSOVER IN CALIFORNIA Our 3rd year!

HYATT REGENCY VALENCIA 30 minutes from L.A. in the village of Valencia

PASSOVER PACKAGES

FREE *

From $ 2,099 ppdo + 25% tax & tip ALWAYS FREE *

First 50 Kids under 6 - 12

Kids 5 & Under * In room with 2 Adults or 2 Teens

Luxuriously appointed guest rooms with marble bathrooms

Fitness Center pools & Jacuzzi

2 minute walk to: GLEN IVY SPA

Jr. Suites, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Suites LAST YEAR SUITES SOLD OUT EARLY

2 indoor gyms for teens for Basketball-Volleyball- Soccer

2 minute walk to: Valencia Town Center Shops

Village, Mountain, Garden, Golf, Pool & Pool view with a terrace

Outdoor grassy play areas for Pre-school & Day Camp

12 Theaters, Arcade, Carousel, Fountains, Westfield Mall & Kids play area

Plenty of connecting rooms K/2 Beds & 2 Beds/2 Beds

Outdoor Day Camp area Basketball-Volleyball- Soccer

2 minute walk to: COLOR ME MINE

\ 2 minute drive to: MAGIC MOUNTAIN THEME PARK 10 minute drive to: MOUNTASIA FUN CENTER Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Bumper Boats, Mini-Golf, Batting Cages, Rock Climbing Wall & Huge Arcade

Walk-In & Roll-in Showers

Complimentary Self-Parking & Valet Parking

2 minute walk to: Mini-Golf

Indoor Ice Skating Rink & Neon Mini-Golf

Handicapped accessible rooms

Business Center & Concierge Services

5 minute walk to: Serene Nature Walk

Free Tennis, 3 Golf Courses, Large Park & Baseball diamond

(323) 933-4033

www. passoverresorts.com

6XSHUYLVLRQ 9D¶DG +D5DERQLP RI 6DQ 'LHJR 13

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

W

e have our own Rosh HaShanah on the first of Tishrei. Although we are not trees, and in our times many of the Mitzvos relating to a farmer’s produce are unfortunately, not applicable. How is Tu B’Shevat, the Rosh HaShana of Trees relevant to our lives?

The Torah tells us that "man is a tree of the field" (Devarim 20:19). Just as a tree is a symbol of growth, development and strength, we too are supposed to grow and develop during our lives.

Tu B’Shevat

-The Human Tree.

A tiny seed is taken from the magnificent tree and thrust into the dirt. It rots and decays and eventually, is completely assimilated into the earth. However, even though it’s temporarily destroyed, it’s not ruined. Soon a new beautiful and magnificent tree emerges, far surpassing the seed it once was. The seed has produced roots and trunk, branches and twigs, leaves, and hundreds of fruits. Each of the fruits themselves contain seeds which can be planted and eventually create hundreds more seeds. The simplest farmer understands that in order for a seed to transcend its present existence, it must be put into the ground to decay, and only then can it emerge as something more.

Even the greatest tree, with thousands of leaves and branches, producing countless harvests of delicious fruits, starts as a small seed. A human being, similarly, is born an infant and grows into adulthood, developing physically, psychologically and spiritually, and eventually into a contributing member of society and the Jewish People. As we celebrate Tu B’shevat, it is important think about how each of us is growing in our own lives; to work and develop ourselves through caring for others and in the service of Hashem.

G-d also “plants” us. He plucks a soul

14

January 14, 2011

from Gan Eden and plants her into a lowly physical body, each with its own particular challenges. He also plants the Jewish People into exile among the nations of the world. Out here, we live in darkness, in the dirt, surrounded by an unholy environment and overwhelmed by it. Yet, just as the seed is planted to produce something incomprehensibly greater, we too will emerge into something far beyond the previous paradigm.

As tall or strong a tree might be, its ultimate accomplishment is the fruit it produces. Similarly, we might talk about the “fruits of our labors” or “the apple which doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

Throughout our lives, our own thoughts and actions, and our interactions with the people and places around us will produce fruits, which in turn, contain seeds with the potential for even further expansion and growth.

There are countess types of produce in the world, but there are seven particular species singled out by the Torah as uniquely connected to Israel: For the L-rd your G-d is bringing you to a good land: ... A land of wheat, barley, grapes, figs and pomegranates; a land of oilyielding olives and [date] honey.

(Deuteronomy 8:8) These seven species, two grains and five fruits, crown the botanical garden, representing Israel’s fertility and productivity. Spiritually, they symbolize seven essential aspects of human development.

The first two of the seven species are grains, wheat and barley. Grains are staples of human life while fruits are delicacies that enhance our lives, but aren’t essential. As we apply this to human development, working and refining our “grains” is absolutely critical to a healthy lifestyle.

The Torah characterizes wheat as food for human beings, and barley is characterized as animal food. (Psalms 104:15, I Kings 5:8, Sotah 14a) In terms of personal development, these grains represent the work with our two souls, one • 323-965-1544 •

G-dly and the other animalistic.

The Kabbalists explain that we are a composite of two souls. Our humanity stems from the G-dly soul, a transcendent drive to escape our own limitations and serve a greater purpose. The animal soul, which we share with other living beings, is our drive for material existence, self perpetuation and preservation. Our first job is to develop ourselves in both areas.

Cultivating our wheat is the development and expression of our G-dly souls. We are all filled with potential, but it has to manifest itself, be exercised and expand into our everyday reality. We do this by expanding our knowledge of Hashem by studying Torah (both revealed and mystical) and through contemplative prayer, which develops the emotional elements of our G-dly soul - the capacity to love and fear Hashem. If we don't pay attention to G-d, our heart is captured by our animalistic soul, and our neshama can get shriveled. This is a constant expectation of us, and the only way to bring out and develop the wheat within us, our spiritual selves.

We need to cultivate the barley as well.

G-d didn't create us to suppress the animal within us, he doesn't want us to eradicate our animal consciousness. If our purpose here was only to expand our G-dly awareness, we would never have been created as physical beings. The G-dly experience of a soul is incomprehensibly greater outside of a physical body, with its limited physical brain.

Rather, G-d brought us down to rectify the animal soul - to educate the ego, to refine the beast within us that knows only of Earth, and only appreciates selfish pleasures and enjoyments. We must channel and focus our drives into our relationship with G-d.

The animal part of us is not evil. It can turn corrupt if a person allows it to go unchecked – if we allow the animal to roam freely, it will be destructive and fall into all kinds trouble. However, at its info@communitylinks.info

core, our animal soul is not a bad entity, just the part in us that seeks fulfillment.

Without any training, it defines fulfillment as the physical sensation and gratification from the immediate pleasures that are around; quite similar to a child whose greatest idea of pleasure is eating an entire bag of candy. So it is with ourselves, we must develop a passion within ourselves for the finer pleasures - studying Torah, doing mitzvos and performing kindness. There is great fulfillment and pleasure in finding insight into the very meaning of life, but the animal soul doesn't know of it, so it resists. We have to teach and train this part of ourselves.

The point is not to eradicate the animal, but that it should become a drive to spirituality and holiness. When we draft the animal soul into serving God, it brings far more energy than we could have otherwise. Just like a human being runs slower than an animal, has less strength than an animal and harbors weaker passions, our G-dly soul too is physically weaker in this respect. When we can bring our animal into a relationship with G-d, our productivity and sensation is amplified. This is the development of our barley.

Once we have developed these basics, the wheat and the barley, we can begin to add the fruits, pleasurable things that enhance our lives and our service of

Hashem.

The grape produces wine, which symbolizes joy and happiness. After a few l’chaims everybody is a little happier.

What is the significance of joy in our lives and in the service of Hashem? Joy doesn't add anything new, rather, it opens a person up to fully express inner feelings. An unhappy person is not fully operational, only the tip of his talents is actualized and the rest is suppressed. Joy amplifies what is already there.

When a person who is happy about something sits down and studies, the capacity and comprehension is much greater, because the mind is fully present.

When we love someone and we are happy, we feel the intensity and the depth of the love in a much more powerful way, unlike when we are in a regular mood. Every element of the soul is intensified and fully expressed as a result of joy.

Wine, too, is physically the same way. At first, the wine is concealed within the grape. Wine is only produced by revealing what’s inside; by squeezing out the liquid and exposing it to the external elements. So too, we must have joy to draw out our capabilities and expose them to the outside world. Without joy, we barely scrape the surface of what’s possible, therefore, simcha, joy, takes a primary role in our service of G-d.

The fig is connected to the Eitz HaDaas, The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Our sages discuss the nature of Adam’s sin when he ate the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. To have daas, to know something, is the ability to recognize and connect with it, to fully become integrated with it. Truly knowing anything represents a deep intimacy and a deep connection with it; it becomes part of you. G-d didn't want the challenges of our lives to be as connected and personal as we experience them today.

Adam was not to have an inner and innate recognition and feeling for evil. Our desires and passions towards unholy things are felt very strongly, and sometimes we really identify with them. This is the knowledge that came from that tree. Man shouldn’t know evil so intimately; it should be distant from him.

Adam, however, wanted to truly know every aspect of G-d's creation, including that which is bad in this world, since it is man’s job to connect everything to G-d.

This is why he partook of the tree of knowledge.

Of course, it was a mistake on his part.

However, daas is a very powerful and constructive thing. When we're doing something, we need to fully be present and immersed in it with all of our being.

We must fully put ourselves into whatever we are involved with. When we

OVERSTOCK SALE 35%-55% off* *Regular Department Store Prices

CLOSED MONDAYS WE NOW CARRY! Calvin Klein • Ralph Lauren • Michael Kors • Joseph Abboud • DKNY First Quality Men’s Clothes at Half the Price of Department Stores Boys Suits at Discounted Prices from size 8-20 Regular & Husky 100% Wool Super 100

15 J a n u a r y

14, 2011

100% Wool Sports Jackets 100% Wool Suits - Made in Italy 100% Wool Pants 100% Cotton Shirts 100% Silk Designer Ties Leather Belts & more...

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

study, there shouldn’t be anything else on our minds. In a relationship, we must give of ourselves fully and completely.

During prayer we must be so immersed with that prayer and that it is one with us. This is the fig, the development of daas, our total identification with what we are doing.

The pomegranate is an incredible fruit; it’s simultaneously full and hollow. Unlike most fruits, whose peel and flesh are integrated, the pomegranate is compartmentalized. Its peel is simply a container and the fruit itself is separated into hundreds of separate pieces which can be completely separated from each other.

If a person does a lot of good things, but they doesn’t rub off on his character, we might call him an empty person.

Perhaps this person even studies a lot Torah and does a lot of mitzvos, but it just doesn’t get assimilated.

In this sense, the pomegranate represents the complete opposite of the fig.

If the fig is one who is totally identified with his actions, the pomegranate is one whose actions are disconnected. What's positive about this? Why should we cultivate our pomegranate?

The truth is that there is incredible benefit in doing things that are not consistent with ourselves. In a sense, it’s holy hypocrisy. We might ask ourselves why we should study when we aren’t interested, or we don’t understand. Perhaps, we don’t identify with the words, or just don’t feel like praying. Holy hypocrisy means that we act even if we are not re-

ally there. Even if we don’t feel that our actions are true, they are actually fundamental to our growth. The true power of deed is expressed when we reach beyond ourselves - from whatever level or capacity of goodness we have, to do actions and get involved in things that are outside of us. We push ourselves past our limits and past our understanding, even if the daas isn’t there, even if our involvement isn’t completely genuine.

Eventually we will get there. This is the power of action symbolized by the hollow, yet full, pomegranate.

Wine comes from a grape that is squeezed, oil comes from a olive when it is strongly crushed. The olive in our lives is the growth that comes from struggle, when we press ourselves throughout the challenges of life. We can’t always express ourselves or be the person we want to be. Many times, success requires backbreaking effort and struggle. However, even if our toils temporarily crush us, ultimately, beauty emerges which would otherwise never have been attainable.

Crushing doesn’t mean eliminating the bad tendencies within us and turning them into holiness, this was accomplished with the development of the barley. The olive, which only produces good oil under strong pressure, symbolizes our need to constantly persevere throughout the struggles and challenges of daily life, at whatever level we find ourselves.

The date, the last of the seven species, is the opposite of the olive. A date which oozes sweet honey represents the beauty that emerges from the human soul when it is in a state of tranquility and harmony. Even though we are productive when we are under pressure, there are also great aspects of ourselves that can only emerge when we are complete and at peace. When life isn’t throwing surprises at us, we need to utilize this time to tap into our inner human being and draw out the sweet honey, our full potential. The Torah compares the righteous person to a date.

This is the true Tzaddik that has perfected his attributes and blossomed into a strong, healthy tree which consistently produces delicious fruit.

We hope that as we work to complete the development of our seven species, we will see the fruits of our labors, luscious trees will continue to sprout forth in the orchards of the Jewish people, and together may we make the grand Shechiyanu blessing in Jerusalem very soon.

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".

General & Cosmetic Dentistry Crowns • Bridges • Implants • Veneers • Bleaching •Free Consultation for Lumineers

818-981-0394

16055 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1001 Encino, CA 91436-2621 Ask now for your complimentary

Digital Smile Makeover.

We’ll have it ready before you leave!

16

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

Get your

perfect smile... ...today.

LUMI SMILE

BY LUMINEERS

info@communitylinks.info

$

5

$ off

55 Purchase

Available with cash purchase only.

Expires Jan. 30, 2011.

$ $

10off

110 Purchase

Available with cash purchase only.

Expires Jan. 30, 2011

Ariel Glatt is not responsible for any price printing mistakes. All prices subject to change without notice.

17

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

18

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

19

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Exp. 2/28/2011

With purchase of

$ or more

30

Exp. 2/28/2011

20

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

1/4 Beef Burger +Soda+Chips

$

499

Exp. 2/28/2011

info@communitylinks.info

Exp. 1/31/2011

21

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

B”H

Same Day Service Often Available

Full Sofer Services on Site

•

•

Fine Silver Judaica

Mezuzah & Tefillin Checking

•

House Calls

by Appointment •

New Mezuzos & Tefillin (Sefardi, Ashkenazi & Chabad)

22

January 14, 2011

FREE Mezuzah Checking*

•

Repair of Tefillin Batim •

*Recieve 1 free Mezuzah Checking with every 10 Mezuzah Checking

• 323-965-1544 •

New & Used Torah Scrolls

info@communitylinks.info

23

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

I

n this week's portion, the Egyptians did not walk they ran right into trouble. Despite ten plagues which proved that Hashem had absolute control over the forces of nature, and the flawless exodus from Egypt of 2 million Jewish men, women, and children, the Egyptians irrationally thought they had a chance to save face.

tells us that after the Sea of Reeds split and the Jews passed through walls of water in miraculous triumph, the Egyptians followed in pursuit. They must have felt for some reason, that the same miraculous treatment would be meted to them.

In a Divine stratagem Hashem spoke to Moshe, saying: "Speak to the Children of Israel and let them turn back and encamp before Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, before Baal-Zephon; you shall encamp opposite it, by the sea." (Exodus 14:2)

Any rational person's first reaction would be to flee away from the falling waters, but the Torah tells us that, the water went back to its power as the Egyptians were fleeing toward it" (Exodus 14:27)

Understanding Pharaoh's arrogance, Hashem knew that there would be no chance that Pharaoh would see this as a ploy, rather he would immediately say of the Children of Israel, 'They are locked in the land, the Wilderness has locked them in." (Exodus 14:3)

Why would they flee toward the waters? Wouldn't logic dictate that they run away from the waters?

So once again, pride and emotion overrode common sense, and denying Hashem's unmistakable hand in the fugitive nation's meandering, Pharaoh pursues them and runs into disaster.

But that is not the only time that Pharaoh runs into collapse. The Torah

But the walls of water began to cave in trapping the helpless Egyptian army.

Frank had a frustrating day at the office. His work was not up to par and his boss came down hard on him for a variety of misdemeanors. Making up for incomplete work, Frank left the office at 7:00 PM. Late as he was, he figured a trip to the corner pub wouldn't hurt his spirits.

From his cell phone he called his wife to tell her he just left the office, and would be home within the hour.

Yield Right Of Way Rabbi Mordechai Kaminetzky

PARSHAS BESHALACH 24

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

After a few drinks he got into his car and headed for the parkway. His judgement impaired by a mean combination of frustration and alcohol, he headed home in the southbound lane. Unfortunately, his car was pointed north! In his rush to get home he began dodging the oncoming cars.

Suddenly his cell phone rang. "Frank," his wife shouted to him in a panic.

"Please be careful! The radio just reported that there is a madman on the parkway driving a car in the wrong direction!"

"One madman with a car going in the wrong direction?" asked Frank incredulously. "There are hundreds of them!"

When one establishes arrogant infallibility, he sees no failure in his actions and will not allow himself to turn back and rethink his corrupt tracks. Instead he forges ahead, plowing himself into more pain and misery, all the while denying his blunder. He feels that he is travelling in the right path. Everyone else is headed in the wrong direction.

The Egyptians felt it was the Jews who were lost in the dessert. They could not fathom that it was their direction and their judgement that was skewed.

Their arrogance in chasing the Jews into the Red Sea was compounded when the walls of water began to fall before them in a tumultuous torrent of tragedy. But instead of fleeing and back-peddling on the malady of their ways they ran toward the water. And their arrogance together with their idolatrous aplomb was simply washed away.

When travelling on the high speed lane of life. It is important to view oncoming traffic with retrospect. If the waters are too deep; if traffic is heading in the opposite direction, perhaps it is time to make sure that you are in the right lane? • info@communitylinks.info

25

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

26

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

27

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

TXXYD

The Running Springs Retreat Center

SPECIAL SKI SEASON Family Weekend Getaways All Winter Long!

Join us and experience a spiritual oasis within the S. Bernardino National Forest. Ski and enjoy winter activities at Snow Valley Mountain Resort near our campus with 13 lifts and 240 acres of powdery terrain. Special ski lift rates for retreat guests. Enjoy a fun weekend of winter adventures, meet new friends and experience the wonders of nature. t Full Shabbos program t Fine kosher dining (under Kehilla ) t Comfortable accommodations in a rustic weekend setting t Magnificent 70 acre campus t Individuals and families welcomed any weekend of the year t Babysitting available (for a nominal fee) t 24 hour tea room

For more information or to make a reservation: (310) 208-7511 ext. 261 Info@RSretreats.com www.RSretreats.com

28

January 14, 2011

SPECIAL RATE WEEKEND! Only $499 per family!

WINTER VACATION WEEKEND January 28-30, 2011 Includes 2 nights accommodations and

• 323-965-1544 •

all meals

info@communitylinks.info

29

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Rabbi Mordechai Kaminetzky

Shabbos Speak

T

his week we read the Aseres HaDibros, known throughout civilization as the Ten Commandments. Most of the commandments are well known, and even observed, albeit in varying degrees by manifold societies. One command, however, begs for correct observance by the Jewish nation, "Zachor es yom haShabbos l'kadsho -- Remember the Shabbos to keep it holy." This commandment has a sister command stated in the second set of Luchos in Deuteronomy, "Shamor es yom haShabbos l'kadsho, Observe the Shabbos to keep it holy."

The laws of Shabbos observance fills an entire tractate and myriad pages of commentaries. There are 39 melachos, categories of creative work, that are prohibited on Shabbos. That is observance. But what does "remember the Shabbos to keep it holy" mean? Obviously if one observes the Shabbos, he remembers it!

PARSHAS YISRO

Though the Talmud derives from this verse the mitzvah of kiddush, at which we remember the Shabbos with an open declaration of its sanctity, it seems to be telling us something more than declaring its entry over a cup of wine. But how does the command of remembering Shabbos add to the mitzvah of observing it?

The next verse reads: "Six days shall you work and accomplish all your work: but the seventh day is Shabbos to Hashem" (ibid 20:9) Shouldn't the order of the two p'sukim be reversed?

First the Torah should tell us to accomplish our work in six days, then tell us that the seventh is Sabbath, and only then tell us to sanctify it by remembering it? After all, we stop work before we say kiddush?

feet (from going) and if you honor it by not doing your ways, or seeking your needs, or speaking the forbidden, then you shall be granted pleasure from Hashem. (Isaiah 58:13-14).

The Talmud derives that Shabbos talk, like Shabbos action, should be distinguished from weekday actions or speech. Just as one does not perform business on Shabbos, he should not talk about doing business either.

Thus some Jews who unfortunately are unable to contain themselves from discussing the mundane on Shabbos, preempt their mundane banter with the useless caveat, "nit oif Shabbos geredt," meaning, "this really should not be discussed on Shabbos." Unfortunately some do not heed their own precursory and continue their irreverent discussions.

A fable I heard years ago, personifies a sad state of spirituality, but, perhaps shines a meaningful explanation for our question.

It was amazingly quiet, during the laining in the small shul on 43rd Street one Shabbos, when Cohen sauntered over to Finkelstein and in a hushed tone asked, "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, do you know anybody who has a car for sale? My old clunker died on Thursday."

Finkelstein was surprised. "You know," he admitted, "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, I am thinking of selling my '96 Chevy!"

"Really?, responded Cohen in delight, " Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, how does it run?"

Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, it runs great! It has only 43,000 miles and I just put in a new transmission!

Suddenly, they heard a klop on the bimah. They turned to see the icy stares of the gabbai.

The prophet Isaiah tells us, "If for Shabbos you restrain your

30

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

They nuzzled their noses into the chumashim as the Ba'al Koreh continued to read from the Torah.

A few minutes later, Cohen crept back toward Finkelstein. "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt what color is it?"

As the stares began anew, Cohen answered in a low whisper, "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, its blue."

Cohen realized that he forgot to ask a most pertinent question. "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, how much do you want for it?"

Finkelstein responded, "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, $4,200. Cash."

A few minutes later Cohen countered, "nit oif Shabbos g'redt, how about 3,500?

'Finkelstein snapped back. "Nit oif Shabbos g'redt nothing less than 4,000!"

Cohen was quiet. "I'll think about it."

31

January 14, 2011

Cohen was the first one in shul for Mincha that afternoon. The moment Finkelstein walked in Cohen ran over to him.

party." "I have a great stock tip, I'll tell you about it after Shabbos!" "What time is Shabbos over? I have to catch a plane."

"Nit oif Shabbos g'redt, you know the car you told me about this morning, It's a deal! I'll take it for four thousand!

Shabbos, and remembering it should be mentioned and remembered in the context of sanctity and appreciation! It must be associated with all the wonderful benefits we derive from it! That is what the Torah means by the words, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy!" We should cherish the Shabbos, prolong it, savor it, and bask in its holiness. Therefore the Torah follows its charge with the formula, "Six days shall you work and accomplish all your work," When one feels that his work was accomplished during the previous six days, then Shabbos will not be just a stepping stone in planning the next six! He no longer will associate the Shabbos with what he can not do, but rather he will associate Shabbos with the amazing spirituality that it bestows upon Israel. •

Yankel, shrugged. "Too late. Nit oif Shabbos g'redt I sold it during musaf!"

Perhaps with the words, "remember the Shabbos to keep it holy," the Torah tells us more than just to make kiddush.

It qualifies our Shabbos by defining the proper approach to its observance!

Shabbos was created for sanctity! Remember it, and speak about it in holy terms. Shabbos should not be a frame of reference in which we set our mundane plans. Rather it should be the central focus of holiness.

Often we hear people use Shabbos as a reference point for their weekly activities. "After Shabbos we are going to a

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

B”H

WHAT: We need your broken and unwanted gold items. (Chains, Coins, Necklaces, Bracelets, Earrings, Charms….Anything!)

WHY: We can turn your gold items into dollars to help defray the costs of educating Jewish children.

HOW: Our gold expert will evaluate your item. You will receive in return a tax deduction receipt.

WHERE: You may drop off your item Monday-Friday, 10:00AM-12:30PM with Mrs. Sima Bart. She will receipt your item.

You will receive your tax deduction within four days.

Bais Chaya Mushka School for Girls • 9051 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035 • (310) 859-0770 ///;xfu cvz hpktn lhp ,ru, hk cuy

Photography by Naomi Abesara 323.385.8265

32

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Tel. 310-777-0402 8879 W. Pico Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90035 Buy 2 Menu Items Get The 3rd FREE!!!

Meetings or Party Specials:

David Morris

30 Falafel Balls Sides: Hummus, Tehina, Israeli Salad, Big Tray of French Fries

Commercial & Residential Insurance

License # 0G71537 p ho ne : 32 3.8 33. 9912 fa x : 213. 406 .1314

$35

3435 W ilshire Blvd. Suite 2725, Lo s A n g e l e s , C A 9 0 0 1 0 David@MorrisInsGroup.com w w w. M o r r i s I n s G r o u p . c o m

FREE DELIVERY Min. $20.00 (3 mile radius) 33

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Postpartum Depression

A Personal Account

by Michal Finkelstein

34

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

I

t was as if I were being buried alive, sinking in quicksand, unable to find my way out. That's how I felt after the birth of my sixth child.

I was irritable; I cried; I was exhausted, yet had trouble sleeping.

Getting through each day seemed nearly impossible. My own children avoided me; my husband tiptoed around me. I was convinced that my family and the world would be better off without me.

Although I was a certified nurse midwife at that time, my lack of experience and understanding of postpartum depression matched that of the average layperson and, unfortunately, most medical professionals.

Postpartum depression (PPD) was something that happened to "other" women who already had psychological problems.

Anyway, PPD would never happen to me. I was too "happy"! I was always the type of person that people viewed as so capable, energetic, and positive. But I suddenly realized that if PPD could happen to Michal Finkelstein, it could happen to anyone.

After my sixth child was born over twelve years ago, I suffered from PPD. It was only after this birth that

my doctor and I realized that I had probably suffered from PPD after the births of my five other children. I had found it difficult to cope, but chalked it up to having many children close in age, to being overwhelmed, and to lacking household help. I didn't even know that my extreme frustration and anxiety weren't a "normal" part of being a young mother. Thankfully, I had a good marriage, good friends, and a cohesive community. This support, along with my sheer will, helped me to pull myself out of these milder episodes of depression.

However, this time, after number six, I was feeling really bad! I still shudder when I think back to those horrible, lonely feelings. I felt so alone. We had just moved, and my familiar support systems and dear friends were far away. I imagined that my husband, my children, and the whole world were against me. Intellectually I knew that the thoughts going through my head were unrealistic, but I could not control them. At the same time, I was mortified at the thought of discussing the ferocity of my anger and bitterness with anyone.

Finally, four months postpartum, an older friend suggested I see a therapist. Thank G‑d I did.

The dark, heavy cloud slowly lifted

during the following months. It was a hard process over time, with many ups and downs. At first, I tried talking with a psychologist. However, we soon realized that cleaning help at home, proper diet, exercise, and all the usual outlets that helped in the past would not be sufficient to remedy the situation this time. The psychologist referred me to a psychiatrist who prescribed an antidepressant.

Medication, along with counseling, provided the relief I needed. It took a few weeks for the medicine to kick in, and I felt worse before I felt better.

It was so frustrating until the old me slowly returned. I can honestly say that it took up to a year until I felt 100% better!

We all know of someone who has suffered from PPD to some degree.

Just mention Postpartum depression and you will get an onslaught of reactions and personal confessions.

While I was in line at the drug store, a woman overheard me talking about this topic with the pharmacist and told me she had to send her daughter to England for six months for treatment and rest while she had to take care of the grandchild herself. Another woman admitted to me that until a friend helped her, she spent five months at home in her bathrobe without leaving or talking with

General & Cosmetic Dentistry Crowns • Bridges • Implants • Veneers • Bleaching •Free Consultation for Lumineers

818-981-0394

16055 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1001 Encino, CA 91436-2621 Ask now for your complimentary

Digital Smile Makeover.

We’ll have it ready before you leave!

35

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

Get your

perfect smile... ...today.

LUMI SMILE

BY LUMINEERS

info@communitylinks.info

friends. A more extreme expression of PPD was an unforgettable experience with a young woman after the normal, healthy birth of her first-born son. Two days later, she became catatonic, incapable of showering, dressing, and even feeding herself, let alone caring for her baby.

Postpartum depression is a pervasive and poorly understood phenomenon, not only in the medical world but also in Jewish circles. So many women are afflicted with some level of emotional distress after childbirth. There are many shades of this "darkness." A woman many not be suicidal or dangerous to her children; she may even get up and go to work every day, make dinner for the family and put on a happy face, but her internal sadness and despair are eating her soul away. She lives with these feelings in solitude.

PPD is all the more serious in our Jewish world because bringing down Jewish souls is such an important part of our culture, and building large families is a common goal. Moreover, not only the woman suffers; her husband, her children, and her community also suffer.

I can offer three practical suggestions to get through this difficult time: first, focus on accomplishing only the most important task(s) of the day; second, keep the lines of communication open with your spouse, family, and friends; and third, speak with an objective third party who can help you direct your thoughts in a more positive and realistic manner.

We have to talk about PPD, discuss our stories, and share our experiences. The more we research, discuss, diagnose, and treat PPD responsibly, the more we can improve the quality of life for countless mothers and their families.• This article has been excerpted from the book Delivery from Darkness: A Jewish Guide to the Prevention and Treatment of Postpartum Depression by Rabbi Boruch Finkelstein; Michal Finkelstein RN, CNM; and Doreen Winter, MSW.

36

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

STORE OWNERS SUPERMARKETS HOTELS M AIL/PHONE ORDERS GROCERIES WHOLESALE/RETAIL BUSINESS INTERNET MERCHANTS NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

E XISTNG B USINESSES LET US SAVE YOU MONEY ON YOUR CURRENT FEES. • No Setup Charges • No Reprograming Fees • No Application Fees • Upgrades • Trade-ins Available

CREDITIfCwe cannot reduce you ARD PR OCESS r w e will pa y you

$200

37

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

ING FE E

S

info@communitylinks.info

A Pillar of Strength and Faith After the Holocaust

By Dina Hendel

Her voice choked with emotion, Rachel often repeated when we spoke, "G‑d is so good to me." Rachel was a Holocaust survivor who lived a life of tragedies and great challenges. Yet she always clung to her faith and was grateful for the blessings she had.

When she was two, her mother died, and several years later she was torn from her father and siblings by the hands of the brutal Nazis. Rachel was used in the quarters of the Nazis as a slave.

She was forced to wash their clothing and did other menial chores, which caused her hands to ache and peel.

in the Holy Land. Her four children were in California, and she was here in Jerusalem on her own.

My husband and I moved to Baka, Jerusalem, several years ago to open a Chabad center for English speakers.

We were planning our first communal Passover Seder for a group of thirty guests. Rachel insisted on coming over before the holiday to help out. I didn't know her well then, and wondered why a woman in her eighties would want to help when she could be relaxing at home. It was then that I began to truly appreciate the unique strength of character which Rachel possessed.

After the war, Rachel married She came to our home, dressed her husband, a survivor like herconservatively, with a pretty self. He was a devoted, helpful beret covering her hair and a husband, and they loved each warm smile on her face. She other dearly. However, Rachel's worked efficiently for several husband suffered extreme anxiety hours, checking and drying the after the Holocaust. On Friday many heads of lettuce needed nights, he'd often leave the Shabfor our Seder. She did the job bat table to eat his piece of bread which most people dreaded, in the corner, quiet and trembling.

Rachel Knopf helping in the author's home happily and with ease. When she Their four little children used to beg their father, "Papa, come back to the table. Please finished, she insisted on continuing to help, and polished join us." But Hitler, may his name be erased, had man- our Shabbat candlesticks, with vigor and love. That day the bond was formed. aged to kill a part of his spirit.

Rachel, though, remained strong and was a rock of support for her husband and children. She was devoted to him until the day he died, following a terrible illness.

Rachel was only in her forties when she was widowed and left to raise her four young children on her own. She worked days and nights to support them single-handedly, and even managed to buy a home in California, where they were living. She sewed their clothing, and always made sure that there was food on the table. It meant so much to her that her children have a safe haven and a place to call home.

I met Rachel two years ago, and knew her well for the very last year of her life. She became an integral part of our family and left an impressionable mark on our hearts and souls. Rachel moved to Israel about two years before us and was delighted to fulfill her life's dream of living

38

January 14, 2011

Rachel returned almost every Friday afternoon after that to help with the Shabbat preparations, and then she'd leave after the Friday night meal. She cut salads, and especially loved holding the baby. She'd sing Yiddish songs to him, and it seemed to me that she reverted to a distant time and place as she hummed those haunting melodies.

I often marveled at Rachel's diligence and willingness to work. I myself would have gladly been elsewhere during those hectic Friday afternoons, yet Rachel chose to join and was happy to be part of the rigorous preparations.

We talked as we worked, and after we lit candles, we sat together on the couch and prayed. Then we chatted some more as we set the table and finished the last preparations. Rachel's faith became crystal clear during our many conversations. She always told me, "G‑d is so good to me," with such conviction, as she cocked her head from

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

side to side. The tone in her voice spoke of a connection so deep, like an only child speaking of her father's love for her.

This line came in between one personal horror story and the next, which never ceased to amaze me. She chose to look at the miraculous, at the Hand of G‑d which was always there, despite the suffering and dark times. Throughout her day to day life, Rachel continued her mantra. When she found out that the arm she thought was broken was only sprained, she called me on the phone, "G‑d is so good to me!" she uttered those familiar words with the same warmth and conviction as always.

About six months ago Rachel insisted on taking a trip to California to spend time with her children. She kept insisting how important it was for her to see them. During that trip,

39

January 14, 2011

and surrounded by her loving children, Rachel passed away.

Those of us in the community of Baka are left with a void after Rachel's passing, but we are also left with her powerful legacy. A legacy of faith and positive spirit. "G‑d is so good to me," I now repeat to myself, hoping to emulate the remarkable faith of a remarkable woman. I am fortunate and blessed that my life's challenges pale next to Rachel's. But her attitude and conviction is something that will always remain a part of me. She taught me and everyone she knew the importance of seeing the positive and recognizing the goodness even in our most difficult times. There is no better way of remembering her and honoring that memory than when I allow myself to truly recognize, "G‑d is so good to me." •

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

40

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

41

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

42

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

43

December 31, 2010

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Orthodox Jewish Chaplaincy Board In Action For over 30 years Chanukah candles have been lit at the Men’s Central Jail in Los Angeles. Rabbi Shmuel Dovid Raichik, of blessed memory, and the official Sheriff ’s Department Chaplain Rabbi Martin Ryback, of blessed memory, conducted the Chanukah candle lighting then. Today, the Orthodox Jewish Chaplaincy Board (OJCB) continues the tradition.

The L.A. County Jail System is not a ‘long term’ prison but a ‘temporary’ detention facility for those awaiting trial for violating the law. It is not uncommon to find an inmate ‘locked up’ for sixty or ninety days for a traffic violation! Many inmates are there for more egregious crimes and when convicted will go to state prison.

Presently, there are nearly 20,000 inmates in L.A. County Jails. This Chanukah the OJCB serviced a total of forty-five Jewish inmates. Even though most of the inmates are not Orthodox Jews (6 are Orthodox - 39 are not) the OJCB is there to help these unfortunate souls during this dark time of their life and help rehabilitate them physically and spiritually.

This year, as in past years, with the support and enthusiasm of Sheriff Lee Baca and the L.A County Sheriff ’s Deputies, the Chaplains and Volunteers of the OJCB visited the Jewish inmates during Chanukah. Together they lit candles, they ate jelly donuts, they sang, they danced and they uplifted their neshomas and brought them Chanukah light and joy!

Rabbi Shimon Raichik, Yehuda Stepen, Rabbi Yankee Raichik, Shay Abishoor, Yonathan Shraga, Rabbi Yosef Gabay, Sgt. Kirby Wong, Bruce Bloom, Rabbi Gavriel Cohen, Ami Pykovski, Cpt. Anthony Ward, Rabbi Rafael Levi Shimantov, *LASD-CA Destiny Nelson, OJCB Director/Senior Chaplain Howard Winkler, *LASD-CA Marcos Hernandez, *LASD-R&VS Pamela Garcia, *Senior Deputy Eric Cheatham, *Deputy Dylan Navarro & Rabbi Dara Abaei. *The OJCB, the LA County Board of Supervisors and Sheriff Baca awarded Commendations and Certificates to these five LASD members for “Exemplary Service”.

44

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Qsfnbsjubm!'!!Nbssjbhf!Dpbdijoh Are you dating? Do you plan to marry?

For a happy life and a healthy family structure you need education!!!

The more you know about love, raising children, managing money, communicating feelings and needs, the more likely you will have a happy & fulfilling life and marriage.

•!

Pwfs!31!zfbst!pg!fyqfsjfodf!

I have developed a coaching system that works with the three stages of marriage: Before, During & When in crisis.

Marriage Coach • Pre Marriage Private Teachings • Dating Coach • Pastoral Marriage Couseling • Marrige Degree Seminars

Call early before it’s too late...

Sbccj!Ebwje!Upmfebop

)421*41:.:423 We offer counseling for:

CertifiedMohel Traditional Ritual Circumcision

Domestic Violence/Anger Management Groups Sexual Addictions Drug/Alcohol Education, Assessments & Testing

718.753.3225 sholom@dovber.com

Parenting Classes Monitored Visitation /Child Exchange

Rabbi Sholom D. Langsam

625 N Sycamore Avenue # 216 Los Angeles, CA 90036

Certified by:

Individual/Family/Marriage Counseling

The Chief Rabbinate of Israel

Eating Disorders Teen Counseling

10% off

DNA/Paternity Testing

with minimum

Women Support Groups

Seven Piece Dry Cleaning exp. 1/30/11 pre paid - cash only Valid with coupon

Dennis Brown

7.50 off

$

Special Alterations Pants Hem

exp. 1/30/11 pre paid - cash only Valid with coupon

Non Profit Organization

MA, NCACII, SAP Executive Director

45

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

Calfornia Kosher Kitchen Chicken Piccata Engagements Tammi Friedland & Max Rabin Lital Arbib & Mayan Kerbel Births - Boys Shani & Edon Hirt Rivkie & Michoel Frank Shira & Merrick Lackner Pamela & Rabbi Devin Villarreal Jessica & Steven Samuel Leah & Yitzy Scharf Chani & Choni Klien Sofia & Michael Tanenbaum

Ingredients

Births - Girls Hunny & Daniel Khodorkovsky Zeldy & Benzion Oster Dini & Levi Kramer Ari & Batya Richler Shoshana Leah & Eli Goldberg

• 2 skinless & boneless chicken breasts, butterflied & then cut in half • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • All-purpose flour, for dredging • 6 tablespoons unsalted margarine • 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice • 1/2 cup chicken stock • 1/4 cup brined capers, rinsed • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Births - TRIPLETS!!!

Zavi & Zali Munitz-2 girls and a boy!!!

Directions Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in flour and shake off excess.

Send us your mazel tovs to info@communitylinks.info

FRIDAY, JAN. 14, 2011 Light Candles: 4:48 pm ••• FRIDAY, JAN. 21, 2011 Light Candles: 4:55 pm ••• FRIDAY, JAN. 28, 2011 Light Candles: 5:01 pm

46

January 14, 2011

In a large skillet over medium high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of margarine with 3 tablespoons olive oil. When margarine and oil start to sizzle, add 2 pieces of chicken and cook for 3 minutes.

When chicken is browned, flip and cook other side for 3 minutes.

Remove and transfer to plate. Melt 2 more tablespoons margarine and add another 2 tablespoons olive oil. When margarine and oil start to sizzle, add the other 2 pieces of chicken and brown both sides in same manner. Remove pan from heat and add chicken to the plate.

Into the pan add the lemon juice, stock and capers. Return to stove and bring to boil, scraping up brown bits from the pan for extra flavor. Check for seasoning. Return all the chicken to the pan and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove chicken to platter. Add remaining 2 tablespoons margarine to sauce and whisk vigorously.

Pour sauce over chicken and garnish with parsley.

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

47

December 31, 2010

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

1. Lights on the ambulance are switched. 2. The swirl on the cupboard is now red. 3. The bottom pictures on the cupboard are switched. 4. The picture on the wall is higher. 5. The woman in the back is missing. 6. There are more bars inside the ambulance. 7. The wall in the back is now green. 8. The stripes on the sweater were changed from orange to blue. 9. The green shapes in the right hand corner are missing. 10. There are multiple florescent lights on the right hand side.

qq qq qq qq qq CHANGES KEEP SCORE

10

Double Take YOUR Pictures!

Please email us your event pictures to Info@communitylinks.info at the Zimmer Jewish Museum.

Children enjoying a rainy day

ZIMMER MUSEUM Can you spot the differences in these two pictures?

DoubleTake

CLASSIFIEDS

To place an ad CALL 323-965-1544 GIFTS 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

SERVICES

MUSIC

Bands

DRUM LESSON Over 20 years of experience with a BA in music.

All levels & all ages.

Eric Gold 323-397-2535 #965

"BECAUSE A SIMCHA SHOULD BE HAPPY"

Music by Ariel Louk

SERVICES

BRIS - ,hrc

loukmusic@sbcglobal.net

Traditional Ritual Circumcision Rabbi Nachman B. Kreiman Certified Mohel vjnun kvun

Home: 323.934.9329 Cell: 323.896.5098 www.expertmohel.com #1751

Piano Lessons

323-997-2647

Eli's One Man Band

for all your simchas and special events.

For more info Please call Eli Stiefel 310-4625368 or email elistiefel@gmail.com

Piano Lessons for adult & children over six. At your location. First Lesson free.

Resonable rates. Call Lidia

310.289.5039 or 310.926.7761

-1510-

Abi Notaries Public

MusicbyMendel.com

-1540-

WEDDINGS, BAR-MITZVAHS, SPECIAL OCCSIONS. CONTACT NOW FOR AVAILABILITY AND RATES

310-595-5490

#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.

Call anytime for an appt.

BOOKKEEPING

For all your bookkeeping needs Raizy Grossman 310-279-2139 #1752

48

#1605

NOTARY

-1438-

BEAUTY

WORKSHOPS/CLASSES

TRAVELING NOTARY

Yosef Y. Shagalov:

Traveling Notary Public & Home Signing Agent.

Cell:(323)934-7095 email: yys770@aol.com

WORKSHOPS/CLASSES

One man band to a full orchestra Contact now for availability & rates

-692-

NOTARY

MENDELS@GMAIL.COM

Your place/ Our place No appointment need it!! (EnglishSpanish-French-Italian-Yiddi sh-Portuguese-Hebrew) .

24/6 524 N. La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 323-9300444 (office) 323-646-2356 (Cell x after hours) #209

Bands "A simcha is simply not the same, unless its with Samchenu!"

(310)600-8580 Call today One man band to a 40 Piece Orchestra. and ask how We deliver crisp, authentic, and energetic music! we can enhance your simcha!

We do Weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, Banquets, Concerts, Acapella, Yeshivish, Sfaradi/Mizrachi, and Contemporary. Once you hear the difference in our music, you will be hooked! Led by Aharon Assaraf

www.Samchenu.com

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

Parenting With Wisdom 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 @ 818 754-4501. -1548784

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. www.LAORT.edu

A Time for Dance . Our fantastic Drama Workshop meets Sunday mornings 10:15-12:15 at 7269 Beverly Blvd. Girls will have the opportunity to learn acting, improv, character development, tap and theater dance and train vocally under the instructor of our professional staff. As a company, we will produce an end of the year performance for women only! For more information: #766 (323) 404-0827 www. atime4dance.com -

REAL ESTATE FOR RENT Pico/Robertson area.

Close to shopping and grocery stores. Walking distance to many synagogues. The apartment has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom has two closets and a built-in desk and mirror. There is ample storage space, including a closet off of the living room, and a closet and shelves in the hallway. The Kitchen has a refrigerator, oven, stove, and dishwasher.

There is A/C. Hardwood floors. Lots of light during the day. $1750 a month. 310 613 6562 # 1523.9326

800.998.2678 info@communitylinks.info

CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE

Beverly Hills Adjacent Home for Rent 5 Bedroom 4 Bath Vintage Luxury Home w/ full kitchen and bath guest house, floors, Lrg Luxury Granite Kitchen w/ pantry, vaulted ceilings, breakfast room, formal dining room, Jacuzzi, 2 car garage, Laundry, Waterfall and Sauna. Lots of Builtins.

••• Studio Loft Guest House with full kitchenette and bath, all utilities included.

2nd floor. Separate entrance. $1095 per month. Pico Robertson area.

••• Luxury Condo for Lease.

Wall to wall exotic bamboo hardwood flooring, Granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, alarm system, large walkin closets, lots of storage space, double entry doors, washer and dryer in the unit. Security parking and entrances, elevator, garbage shoot, and a fitness room.

Call Daniel @ (310) 925 - 9972 #1404

APT FOR RENT 2BR/2BA,W/D, DPW, Yard, Remod.

La Cienega & Cashio $ 1550/mo

888-360-3337 orna@orna.com #1737

49

LOWEST MORTGAGE RATES

EMPLOYMENT

LOWEST MORTGAGE RATES

BABYSITTER AVAILABLE

15 years fixed conf.

3.875% APR 30 years fixed conf.

4.250% APR

Orthodox woman available to watch your children full time or part-time hours, at your location. Excellent references. 323-651-9389 #1750

www.adiscountmortgage.com

N.R.C.C. www.ORNA.com 888-360-3337 orna@orna.com

#1737

EMPLOYMENT SALES PERSON WANTED

Excellent Opportunity for highly motivated sales person to work for growing business. For further information please email us at info@community links.info Ref #1980 Marketing Sales Associates Needed Publications 15 years of diversified managerial experience. Noted for strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and people-management skills; knowledge & expertise in: Public Relations/Team Building/Staff Training/Customer Service / Guest Relations /Quality Assurance. Hard working, serious, honest, trustworthy and highly capable. Speaks English, Spanish, Hebrew and French. Email info@communitylinks.info Ref# 37730

January 14, 2011

January 21, 2011

Marketing Sales Associates Needed Publications 15 years of diversified managerial experience. Noted for strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and people-management skills; knowledge & expertise in: Public Relations/Team Building/Staff Training/Customer Service / Guest Relations /Quality Assurance. Hard working, serious, honest, trustworthy and highly capable. Speaks English, Spanish, Hebrew and French. Email info@communitylinks.info Ref# 37730

January 28, 2011

Please call

323.965.1544 or email us at

info@communitylinks.info Facebook www.facebook.com/communitylinksla

Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/CommunityLinks

Marketing Sales Associates Needed Publications Seeking English, Farsi and Hebrew speaking experienced marketing sales associates for growing Jewish publications in the San Fernando Valley. Knowledge of Jewish customs required.

Commission based. Please send resume to: sel5034@gmail.com

• 323-965-1544 •

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 Cohen’s Restaurant RCC 316 E Pico Blvd # F LA, CA 90015 (213) 742-8888 Elat Burger Ben Zaken 9340 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 278-4692 Elite Cuisine RCC 7119 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90036 (323) 930-1303 Shawarma Express Kehila 5577 Reseda Blvd. Tarzana, 9135 (818) 342-2226 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 Bukspan 11921 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90064 (310) 479-5444 Haifa Ben Zaken 8717 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 888-7700

La Gondola Kehila 9025 Wilshire Blvd. BH, 90211 (310) 247-1239

ou

26 By Shilo’s Kehila 8657 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310)246-1326

Mashu Mashu RCC 12510 Burbank Blvd. 91607 (818)752-ASIA (2742)

Beverly Cafe Elite RCC 7113 Beverly Blvd. LA, 90035 (323) 931-3563

Metro Glatt RCC 8975 W. Pico Blvd. 90035 (310) 275-4420 Nagilla Meating Place Kehila 9407 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 788-0119 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 Schwartz Bakery and Deli RCC 433 N. Fairfax Avenue, LA, 90036 (323)653-1941 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 Schnitzle Kehila 9216 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 786-8282 Temptation Grill Kehila 17547 Ventura B. Encino, 91316 (818) 995-4700

Kosher Chicks RCC 186081/2Ventura Blvd. Tarzana, 91356 (818) 343-8800

The Meating Place KCA 30313 Canwood St. AH, 91301 (818) 706-1255

January 14, 2011

Tierra Sur at Herzog Winery 3201 Camino DelSol Oxnard (818) 752-6866

DAIRY

La Glatt RCC 446 Fairfax Ave. LA, 90036 (323) 658-7730

Jeffs Gourmet Kehila 8930 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 858-8590

50

DINING GUIDE

Bibis Warmstone Kehila 8928 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 246-1788 Bramis Pizza

RCC

Nana Cafe RCC 1509 S Robertson Blvd.

(310) 407-0404 Pacific Pizza RCC - Cholov Yisroel & Pas Yisroel 12460 Oxnard St. N. Hollywood (818) 760-0087 Pico Cafe Kehila 8944 W Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310)385-9592 Pizza Maven Kehila 140 North La Brea Blvd. 90036 (323) 857-0353 Pizza Nosh Rabbi Ami Markel 30313 Canwood St. A.H. 91301 (818) 991-3000

17736 ShermanWay, Reseda 91326

(818) 342-0611 Café Del Mar Dairy Kehila 12526 Burbank Blvd. N.H. 91607 (818) 487-8171 Circa RCC 8622 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles (310) 854-0592 Delice Kehila 8583 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 289-6556 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 Jerusalem Pizza Kehila 17942 Ventura Blvd. Encino, CA 91316

(818) 758-9595 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 Milk N Honey RCC 8837 West Pico Blvd LA, 90035 (310) 858-8850

Pizza Station Kehila 8965 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 276-8708 Pizza World Kehila 365 Fairfax Ave. LA, 90036 (323) 653-2896 Sassis Sushi Kehila 16550 Ventura, Encino, 91436 (818) 783-2727 Shalom Pizza RCC 8715 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 271-2255 Unique Cafe Rabbi Aron Simkin 18381 Ventura Blvd. Tarzana (818) 757-3100 HUMMUS KING Kehilla 12422 BURBANK BLVD. VALLEY VILLAGE 91607 818.509.7999 Fish In The Village RCC 12450 Burbank Blvd. N.H, 91607 (818) 769-0085

PAREVE Le Sushi RCC 12524 Burbank Blvd N.H. 91607 (818) 763-6600 SushiKo RCC 9340 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 274-3474

Milky Way Kehila 9108 W. Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 859-0004 Nagilla Pizza Kehila 9411 West Pico Blvd. LA, 90035 (310) 788-0111

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info

For more information or to place an ad or listing:

www.TheJewishLink.com (323) 863-0623 or (323) 965-1544 or email sales@thejewishlink.com A project of Community Links Media

51

January 14, 2011

• 323-965-1544 •

info@communitylinks.info