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January 21 — January 27, 2016

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Simcha and Accomplishment at Chazara Siyum at YFR

Parsha Comes Alive at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island

Your Midwinter Guide to Fun

A Community Lauds Volunteers at Chaverim of Queens Dinner

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L’Chaim to the Trees

Lessons Learned from the Ilanos

Starts on Page 109

pg Page 107

PAGE 26

– See pages 3 & 31

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Dear Readers, time came, we bundled into the car and

Dear Readers, This week my son asked me about Pu-

make the long trek to spend the weekend

rim. It was out of the blue and he was

with them. A trip to Baltimore for my fam-

Yitzy Halpern

wondering if his morah would know

ily would be incomplete without spending

publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com

who he was if was dressed in a costume.

the day in Washington, D.C., so I recall

Hmmm…good question. And all before

myriad trips to the Smithsonian and Air

8 o’clock in the morning. We decided to

& Space Museum, eating ice cream in the

write her a note so she will realize who he

lobby as we waited for my father to gather

really is when the time comes.

enough frum men for a Mincha minyan

Then I started thinking about Purim.

before we headed back. Looking at those

Hey, it’s almost Tu B’Shvat, which means

pictures of us in our ‘90s-style coats and

that Purim is in a month. But then I real-

hats still brings a smile to my face.

ized that we have more than enough time

I am a firm believer that we don’t need

to plan for who’s going to dress up like Es-

to take our children on extravagant vaca-

ther or a fireman this year. With an ex-

tions to keep them happy. A family trip

tra Adar, there’s going to be many more

is wonderful, but you can also enjoy time

weeks to plan mishloach manos.

together at the library, bowling, at home

Most children are off from school the

baking a cake, or even watching family

next few days. Because of the long winter,

videos together with blankets and pop-

it’s the perfect time to spend it with the

corn on the couch.

family. Days spent together give children

Wherever or however you and your

something to look forward to and some-

family spends the next few days, enjoy it!

thing to look back on as they recall the

Whether it’s in a sunny spot or bundled

memories of those times.

up against the cold, time spent together is

When I was young, many of our mid-

time well-spent.

winter vacations were spent in Baltimore. My aunt and uncle lived there and we

Wishing you a wonderful week,

didn’t get to see them a lot. So when the

Shoshana

PUBLISHER

Yosef Feinerman MANAGING EDITOR

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll

Community Happenings

NEWS

Global

National

Odd-but-True Stories

ISRAEL Israel News

Bore Malls by Rafi Sackville

PEOPLE Spies in Skirts by Avi Heiligman TJH Speaks with Rachel Stahler LMSW, JSC ISY Program Director

94 116

PARSHA Rabbi Wein

The Shmuz

JEWISH THOUGHT Regret without Regrets by Eytan Kobre

Pesach in Paradise by Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz

Level 5 Leadership by Rabbi Naphtali Hoff

L’Chaim to the Trees by Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller

Managing Tragedy Through Connection by Rabbi Naphtali Hoff

HALACHA Competing for Business by Rabbi Moishe Dovid Lebovits

HEALTH & FITNESS Overcoming Mental Illness by Deb Hirschhorn, PhD

The New and Improved USDA Dietary Guidelines by Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN 98 FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: One Pot Dinner

104

VACATION/STAYCATION Fun for the Day by Susan Schwamm

New York! New York! Things to Do around the Big Apple

Warming up your Winter by Esther Ottensoser

Florida Restaurant Guide

Dear Editor, In reporting that El Chapo was caught once again, it got me to thinking about how the ch sound in Yiddish differs from that in English. In mama lashon, ch has the guttural sound of the letter ches as in chutzpa or Chanukah. And wouldn’t you know it – in Yiddish, to chap is to grab or capture. How appropriate that El Chapo was chaped once again. Perhaps he should consider an entirely different nickname. SP Hersh Lawrence, NY Dear Editor, Your article this week on corruption in Albany was interesting because you involved politicians who are close to our community. Because they are politicians, though, they have to couch their words in a subtle manner and can’t truly say what they think or mean. I’d like to point out that it takes an extremely strong person to stand up to the persuasions of money and power. Look at so many organizations around the world and you’ll see what I mean. In sports, for example, take FIFA, and this week look at champion tennis, and you’ll see that no one is exempt from these types of temptations. I also would like to point out that when politicians coast along and assume that their position is a given come every election year, they don’t feel that they need to prove to the

people their desire to perform for their constituents and stay on the right side of wrong. Perhaps certain government positions should have term limits to limit certain individuals from feeling too cozy in their power and developing corrupt relationships. Sincerely, Matt Lowenstein Dear Editor, I enjoyed reading Rabbi YY Rubinstein’s article this week. I have to ask, though, isn’t a “Heavenly survey” something we should be conducting on a lower level with ourselves every night and on a grander scale at least a few times a year? If we don’t stop and take stock of what we are doing spiritually and what our spiritual goals are, then how can we make sure we are heading in the right direction and on the right path? Chani Schiff Dear Editor, We appreciate the beautiful tribute to R’ Tevye Robinson a”h who we have had the privilege to know for over 40 years. Each description of this beautiful soul was true and noteworthy. Thank you for sharing this with the community. Walter and Chana Epstein Dear Editor, This election year is the most pivContinued on page 12

LIFESTYLES Understanding the Redesigned SAT by Chaim Homnick

Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LMSW

100

The Artwork of Paul Cezanne by Rebbetzin Naomi Herzberg

117

Your Money

124

Can we Still Feel Joy? by Rivki Rosenwald, Esq., CLC

126

What do you prefer: A 3 day ski trip to Colorado or 3 days in the Bahamas?

HUMOR Centerfold Uncle Moishy Fun Page

66 118

POLITICAL CROSSFIRE

Notable Quotes

The State of the Presidency: Spent by Charles Krauthammer 113

Obama Promised Hope; He Brought Rage by Michael Gerson CLASSIFIEDS

106

114 119

15 85

Ski

Sun

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Continued from 8

otal in our country’s history, as our national prosperity and endurance are imperiled now more than ever. It is time we endorse Senator Ted Cruz for President of the U.S.—a principled, constitutional conservative, someone who has vehemently defended the Constitution and the rule of law, and someone tenacious enough to defy the entire Republican establishment and the Democrat Party, dubbing him the “most hated man in Washington.” His constitutional conservative ideals include: defending the Constitution, limited government, faith, family, sanctity of life, free market capitalism, low taxes, free trade, school choice, a peace through strength-foreign policy, and securing our borders. His stellar, conservative record is marked by his pro-Israel stance, such as when he was awarded the Dr. Bob Shillman Award, given to an outstanding pro-Israel legislator who has an extraordinary record supporting Israel and enhancing U.S.-Israeli relations; his vigorous fight in his 21-hour filibuster of Obamacare (and incidently the fourth longest filibuster in American history); his fight in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case D.C. v. Heller, where he assembled a co-

alition of 31 states in defense of the principle that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to keep and bear arms; defended the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools; and prohibit use of drones from killing citizens of the U.S. within the U.S. Moreover, this is a brief list of some crucial legislation that he sponsored: the Obamacare Repeal Act; Disarm Criminals and Protect Communities Act; a bill requiring the Secretary of State to offer rewards of up to $5,000,000 for information regarding the attacks on the U.S. diplomatic mission at Benghazi, Libya, that began on September 11, 2012; a bill requiring the Secretary of State to offer rewards of up to $5,000,000 for information on the kidnapping and murder of Naftali Fraenkel, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen, that began on June 12, 2014; State Marriage Defense Act of 2014; a bill amending Title 18, U.S. Code, to prohibit the intentional discrimination of a person or organization (i.e. conservatives) by an employee of the IRS; a bill prohibiting the Department of the Treasury from assigning tax statuses to organizations based on their political beliefs and activities; Free All Speech Act of 2014; Guantanamo

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Bay Detainee Transfer Suspension Act of 2014; a bill preventing the expansion of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program unlawfully created by executive memorandum on August 15, 2012; Sanction Iran, Safeguard America Act of 2014; Expatriate Terrorists Act; and is the only candidate who proposed moving the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, among others. Cruz has delineated his plan to bring America back to economic prosperity, namely: his 10% flat tax and 16% business flat tax – which, according to the Tax Foundation, will create over 4 million jobs and raise wages by about 12.2%; terminating all government departments that issue myriads of unnecessary taxes and regulations which inhibit economic growth; reforming the big entitlement programs; getting spending under control; paying off the debt; a rules-based monetary policy to stabilize the dollar, and other proposals. His foreign policy is Reagan’s “peace through strength” strategy, only intervening in foreign affairs when absolutely necessary, and imposing sanctions to the limit on and isolating our enemies until they collapse from within, in complete opposition to the Bush/Clinton exporting democracy-overthrowing dictators policy, which gave rise to the various Islamic terrorist groups in the Middle East. And he is a staunch proponent of a robust immigration policy, supporting limited legal immigration, and is categorically opposed to the open-borders and amnesty agenda. This is all in stark contrast to his primary rivals, Donald Trump and Marco Rubio. Trump supports higher taxes on the rich; restrictions on free trade – which has increased our living standards immensly; and is against foreign entanglements at a time when the global community needs to eradicate terrorism wherever it may be – items antithetical

to conservatism – and has yet to deliver his plan to bring America back to economic prosperity. His tax policy alone will not solve our massive debt problem, totaling over $130 trillion! Rubio supports amnesty and the open borders agenda, as he still stands by his notorious Gang of Eight Bill; supports increasing the importation of foreign workers at a time when Americans can’t find jobs due to a worker surplus – thus decreasing wages as a result of supply excedding demand; sponsored a bill allowing for unlimited Muslim immigration; supported a bill allowing thousands of Syrian refugees into the country, despite the high terrorism alert and the threat of ISIS; and supports instate tuition for illegal immigrants. Cruz exposed Rubio as a hypocrite when Rubio’s bill was on the Senate floor. Cruz offered some amendments to his bill such as securing the border – and Rubio and the Democrats rejected it. It was thus clear that neither Rubio nor the Democrats were interested in protecting the American people. And incidentally, this is the same Rubio who supported Clinton’s exporting democracy-overthrowing dictators foreign policy – and now the Middle East is more dangerous than ever, posing a grave threat to our national security. Neither Trump nor Rubio are conservatives. It’s about time we finally elect a true, impassioned and principled constitutional conservative (we haven’t had one for almost 30 years since Reagan) – someone who is sincerely dedicated to his country, consistently has defended the Constitution, private property rights, capitalism, religious liberty, traditional marriage, the sanctity of life, and so much more. Ted Cruz 2016: Reigniting the Promise of America! Sincerely, Rafi Metz

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

The Week In News

David Cameron: Muslim Women Must Learn English

Iran Gets its $100 Billion

The number one state sponsor of terrorism around the globe, Iran, is now $100 billion richer after the United States and European nations lifted oil and financial sanctions on the regime last Saturday based on Iran meeting the benchmarks set in the July nuclear deal. “Today marks the start of a safer world,” declared Secretary of State John F. Kerry in Vienna after a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. “We understand this marker alone will not wipe away all the concerns the world has rightly expressed about Iran’s policies in the region. But we also know there isn’t a challenge in the entire region that wouldn’t become much more complicated, much worse, if Iran had a nuclear weapon,” Kerry asserted. Israel, which is in the crosshairs of Iran, was not as congratulatory about this development. “Today, a country that threatens the existence of Israel, denies the Holocaust, destabilizes the Middle East, and subjugates its own people and supports terror across the globe is being strengthened by the international community,” Yair Lapid, a member of the Knesset, said. “The lifting of sanctions strengthens Hezbollah, it strengthens [Syrian President Bashar al-] Assad, it strengthens terrorists across the region who benefit from Iranian support.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is monitoring Iran and will report any violation of the nuclear agreement. Iran has not given up on its ambition to acquire a nuclear weapon, he said.

British Prime Minister David Cameron announced that his government is setting up a twenty-million pound fund to help Muslim women learn English. Failure to learn English may result in rejection of one’s citizenship application, he related. “After two and half years they should be improving their English and we will be testing them,” the prime minister said. “We will bring this in in October and it will apply to people who have come in on a spousal visa recently and they will be tested.” Although he acknowledged that this sounds like a tough measure, Cameron argued, “It is not enough just to say the government is going to spend more money and it is our responsibility. People coming to our country, they have responsibilities too.” He said some “menfolk” in Muslim communities were fostering segregation by preventing women from learning English or leaving home alone, and that could not be allowed to continue. There are estimated to be around 2.7 million Muslims in England out of a total population of some 53 million. “I am not saying there is some sort of causal connection between not speaking English and becoming an extremist, of course not,” Cameron told BBC radio. “But if you are not able to speak English, not able to integrate, you may find therefore you have challenges understanding what your identity is and therefore you could be more susceptible to the extremist message.” He is also announcing a review of the role of Britain’s religious councils, including Sharia courts, in an effort to confront men who exert “damaging control over their wives, sisters and daughters.”

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Not everyone was happy to hear about these new measures. Opposition leaders attacked Cameron’s plans. Tim Farron, the Liberal Democrat leader, said the announcement was “dog-whistle politics at its best” and added that “linking women in the Muslim community who struggle with the English language to homegrown extremism only serves to isolate the very people Cameron says he is trying to help.”

Sean Penn: I Had Nothing to Do with El Chapo’s Capture

According to the Mexican government, actor Sean Penn’s meeting with fugitive drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman led to his recapture. But in an interview with Charlie Rose last week for “60 Minutes,” Penn denies that claim. “There is this myth about the visit that we made, my colleagues and I with El Chapo, that it was – as the Attorney General of Mexico is quoted – ‘essential’ to his capture,” Penn said. “We had met with him many weeks earlier ... on October 2nd, in a place nowhere near where he was captured,” he pointed out. “So as far as you know, you had nothing to do and your visit had nothing to do with his recapture?” Rose asked. “Here’s the things that we know: We know that the Mexican government ... they were clearly very humiliated by the notion that someone found him before they did,” Penn said. “Well, nobody found him before they did. We didn’t – we’re not smarter than the DEA or the Mexican intelligence. We had a contact upon which we were able to facilitate an invitation.” Penn said he believes the Mexican government released the information about Penn in part because they wanted to see him blamed and to encourage the cartel to put him in

their crosshairs. “Are you fearful for your life?” Rose asked. “No,” Penn said.

62 People have Same Wealth as 3.6 Billion People

In a report tailor-made for Bernie Sanders’ campaign, Oxfam America, an organization dedicated to highlighting income inequality, reports that the 62 richest people in the world now have the same collective wealth as the 3.6 billion other people. The two groups each have a total of $1.76 trillion. The report also noted that just five years ago the majority of the world’s wealth was controlled by 388 people. That means that in those five years, the majority of the world’s wealth has been consolidated into the hands of less than one sixth of the number of people who used to control it. Here’s to wondering how I make it 63 people.

Landmark Elections in Taiwan

In a landmark election, Taiwan elected its first female president. However, the real significance of this election is that the president-elect, Tsai Ing-wen, is the leader of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) which seeks independence from China. For the past eight years Taiwan has been controlled by the pro-China Kuomintang (KMT)

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

or Nationalist Party. China considers Taiwan to be a breakaway province, which it has the right to take back by force. In a victory speech in the capital, Taipei Tsai said the results showed that democracy is ingrained in the Taiwanese people. “Our democratic way of life is forever the resolve of Taiwan’s 23 million people,” she asserted. She also stressed a desired to get along with China and noted that both sides “have a responsibility to do their utmost to find mutually acceptable ways to interact ... and ensure no provocation and no surprises.” Despite Tsai’s overtures, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office took a different tone and warned about any potential moves toward independence. “If there is no peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, Taiwan’s new authority will find the sufferings of the people it wishes to resolve on the economy, livelihood and its youth will be as useless as looking for fish in a tree,” it said. “We hope Tsai can lead the DPP out of the hallucinations of Taiwan independence and contribute to the peaceful and common development between Taiwan and the mainland,” it added.

Auschwitz Medic to Be Tried in Germany

Hubert Zafke, a 95-year-old Nazi, will go on trial next month in Germany for his role as an S.S. medic at the Nazi extermination camp of Auschwitz. The indictment says that prisoners in the medical block at Auschwitz-Birkenau – the part of the camp where the gas chambers were located – were murdered while Zafke was on duty. Although classed as a medic, such personnel at Auschwitz were not concerned with the health of inmates, often pouring in the Zyklon B pesticide crystals into the gas chamber to murder them.

In 1948, Zafke was sentenced to three years in Polish prison for his S.S. membership. After being released, he returned to Germany, married and had four children. He made a career out of manufacturing and selling agricultural products, including – of all things – pesticides like Zyklon B. Zafke does not deny his service at Auschwitz but insists, “I heard nothing, saw nothing, killed no one.”

Iran-America Prisoner Swap

After months of secret negotiations, Iran and the U.S. completed a prisoner exchange last Saturday. Four Iranian-Americans were released in return for seven Iranian

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citizens who were jailed in the U.S. for violating U.S. sanctions on Iran. The exchange “ironically” took place on the same day that the U.S. released $100 billion of frozen assets to Iran. The four Iranian-Americans released were Jason Rezaian, 39, who was the Tehran correspondent for the Washington Post – he was detained in Iran for more than a year before his sentencing last November; Saeed Abedini, 35, a Christian pastor who had been imprisoned since July 2012 for organizing churches in people’s houses; Amir Hekmati, 32, a former Marine who spent more than four years in prison on spying charges following his arrest in August 2011 during a visit to see his grandmother; the fourth man, Nosratollah Khosravi-Roodsari, remains a complete mystery, who the public never even heard of before Saturday. Although the others who were freed left Iran for an American military-base in Germany, where they were reunited with family members, Khosravi-Roodsari remained in Iran. White House officials said on Sunday that recently detained student Matthew Trevithick also was

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they have thrown matches. The investigations by the Tennis Integrity Unit, which oversees corruption in the sport, found that networks of Russian and Sicilian gamblers have made hundreds of thousands of dollars betting on fixed matches at prestigious tournaments including Wimbledon and the French Open.

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released – but not as part of the prisoner swap – and had left Iran. There were no additional details. Noticeably missing from the prisoner exchange was Jewish-American Robert Levinson, 68, who disappeared in Iran in 2007 while working for the CIA on an unapproved intelligence mission. He is the longest-held hostage in U.S. his-

tory, assuming he is still alive, which many believe him to be. In a statement on their Facebook page after the Americans’ release, Levinson’s family said: “We are happy for the other families. But once again, Bob Levinson has been left behind. We are devastated.”

Tennis Fixing at Highest Level The BBC and BuzzFeed News has learned that over the last decade 16 tennis players who have ranked in the top 50 in the world have been repeatedly flagged over suspicions

Roger Federer, who is the third highest ranked tennis player in the world, responded to the report by saying, “I would love to hear names. Then at least it’s concrete stuff and you can actually debate about it.” When asked about the scandal, the world’s No. 1 player, Novak Djokovic, disclosed that he once turned down £110,000 to throw a tennis match. “It’s always a choice for a tennis player, an athlete or any person in life. You always have a choice, especially for somebody who is on the tennis court, whether or not you’re going to accept something that is going against everything that the sport stands for. I would always make the right choice. But I can only speak on my own behalf,” Djokovic said. In an interview with the BBC, Associated of Tennis Professionals president Chris Kermode admitted he was aware of match-fixing within tennis but insisted it is at an “incredibly small level.” He added, “It is simply not true that we are sitting on evidence.”

Americans Kidnapped in Baghdad Over the weekend, three Americans were kidnapped in Baghdad from their interpreter’s apartment. As of now, the State Department and FBI are leading the investigation into their disappearance. “We are in very direct contact with the Iraqi authorities ... there is a very full effort going to find them as soon as possible,” Secretary of State John Kerry assured on Monday.

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According to Iraqi intelligence, the Americans were invited into the apartment in the neighborhood of Dora. After they were abducted, they were taken to Sadr City, at which point an official related, “All communications and contact stopped.” A spokesman for Baghdad’s Joint Operations Command told The Washington Post that the three citizens were Iraqis who had acquired U.S. citizenship. A Baghdad police official said they worked as contractors at Baghdad International Airport, but did not say which country employed them. There were no immediate claims of responsibility. Generally, kidnappings in Iraq have been carried out by ISIS, Shiite militias and criminal gangs who often demand ransom or seek to resolve workplace disputes. There has been a large breakdown in security following ISIS’s takeover of Mosul, the second largest city in Iraq. Just last month a Qatari hunting party was kidnapped in Iraq’s south by unidentified gunmen and their whereabouts are still unknown. In September 18 Turkish workers were kidnapped from their construction site in Baghdad’s Sadr city by masked men in military uniforms.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi blamed organized crime for the kidnapping. The workers were released later that month.

“Vikings” Protecting Finland from Immigrants

Dressed in black hoodies with Viking logos, “Soldiers of Odin” roam the streets of Finland looking for security threats caused by immigrants. So far, no conflicts have occurred between the organization’s patrols and immigrants, according to Mika Makinen, a spokesperson for Finland’s Ministry of the Interior, but police are monitoring the group closely. “This group claims that they are not racists, and that they are not an-

ti-immigrant. But previously they have been stating something else,” Makinen related. “It’s rather difficult to think they are not anti-immigrant,” he added. Finnish interior minister Petteri Orpo has publicly denounced the group and accused its members of posing a threat to national security. “There are extremist features to carrying out street patrols. It does not increase security,” he pronounced. “These street patrols are actually causing more work. This is counterproductive to police,” Makinen said. “But it’s a basic civil right to go walking around the street, so this kind of activity cannot be legally forbidden.” Soldiers of Odin was founded in late 2015 in the northwestern border town of Kemi. The group has stated that it is active in over 10 cities in Finland, but police have reported active patrols in only five cities. A spokesman for the group claims that Soldiers of Odin has around 500 active members in Finland, and supporters in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Estonia, Holland, and the UK. Finland received 32,478 asylum seekers in 2015, according to the AP, up from 3,651 in 2014. Police records

show that the number of cases of assaults against women and girls in Finland grew significantly from 2014 to 2015, but the data does not specify the ethnicity or origin of the perpetrators.

Thousands Mourn for Rabbi Refael Shmuelevitz zt”l PHOTO CREDIT EPA

On Monday, thousands flocked to Jerusalem to attend the funeral

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

of Rabbi Refael Shmuelevitz, who passed away at the age of 78 after battling a long illness. Rabbi Shmuelevitz was the Rosh Yeshiva of the prestigious Mir Yeshiva in Jerusalem. He had been suffering for many years from two serious diseases: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Myasthenia Gravis. He passed away in Jerusalem’s Shaarei Tzedek Hospital following a deterioration in his condition in recent days. Born in Poland, he was a scion of a prestigious Ashkenazic rabbinical family and son of the famed Rabbi Chaim Shmuelevitz zt”l. A dedicated talmid chachom, following the Nazi invasion of Poland he followed the Mir Yeshiva to Vilnius in neighboring Lithuania, and then on to Japan and Shanghai, before it eventually settled in Israel. In 2012, Rabbi Shmuelevitz was among several dozen participants in a trial of a revolutionary new stem cell treatment for ALS sufferers. The once wheelchair-bound sage, who also had difficulty talking due to the degenerative illness, underwent an incredible short-term recovery, learning to walk on his own again and speak clearly. However, the treatment was not a cure, and he continued to battle the disease for the remaining years of his life. The funeral procession began in Jerusalem’s Meah Shearim neighborhood and ended at the Har Hamenuchot cemetery, where Rabbi Refael Shmuelevitz was laid to rest.

Mother of Six Killed in Otniel

39-year old Dafna Meir was fatally stabbed right outside of her home in the town of Otniel on Sunday. Mrs. Meir leaves behind her husband and four children, ages 11 to 17, and two foster children who are both under the age of 5. Initial investigations indicated that Meir wrestled with the attacker in an effort to protect the three of her children who were in her home

during the attack. Thankfully the stabber fled the scene without continuing the attack and before he could reach the children. Dafna was remembered as a “joyful” person by her neighbors. “She was a happy woman, joyful, optimistic, driven, responsible, loving,” a neighbor, Yishai Klein, related. “Everyone in the settlement who was in pain knew they could call her 24 hours a day.” Friend Liron Steinberg recalled that Dafna “was a woman who enjoyed life, the wittiest woman I know.” She remembered how Dafna “always looked for how to help. If it was to take two foster kids, or as a nurse in the neurosurgery department. I work as a social worker in the Beit Hagai youth village and she would always invite home kids who didn’t have where else to be.” Late Monday night security forces caught Dafna’s murderer – 16-yearold Morad Bader Abdullah Adais. He was hiding out in a village near Otniel and taken in for questioning. He reportedly confessed to the attack. Adais’s father said on Tuesday that he was “proud” of his son for carrying out the attack, the news site Walla quoted him as telling Palestinian media outlets.

Sweden’s Foreign Minister Continues Outrageous Verbal Attacks on Israel

Perhaps attempting to appease the radical Islamists who are in the process of overrunning her country, Sweden’s foreign minister, Margot Wallstrom, called for an investigation this week to determine whether Israel has been conducting extrajudicial executions of Palestinians during the current wave of violence. In response to Wallstrom’s outrageous comments, Israel’s depu-

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ty foreign minister, Tzipi Hotovely, declared that Swedish officials are no longer welcome in Israel. “Israel is closing its gates to official visits from Sweden,” declared Hotovely. She added, “We’re currently at the frontline of the battle against terror. [Wallstrom] is de facto supporting it, encouraging it, and the State of Israel is sending a blunt message.” This is not the first time that Wallstrom made outrageous and anti-Israel comments. A day after the Paris attacks in November claimed by the Islamic State group, Wallstrom said that the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was a factor in radicalization. Wallstrom’s comments were also denounced Tuesday by former foreign ministers Avigdor Liberman and Tzipi Livni, as well as by opposition leader Isaac Herzog. “The only thing the foreign minister of Sweden hasn’t done is physically join the Palestinian terrorists and stab Jews,” Liberman said in a statement. “Given her conduct so far, we need to hope it won’t happen.”

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According to a member of Israel’s security cabinet, the Palestinian Authority is on the verge of collapse – and the effects can be devastating. “This is a reality we may wake up to tomorrow morning, within months or perhaps after a year or two of collapse,” Absorption Minister Ze’ev Elkin, a member of the security cabinet and considered close to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, told the right-wing Makor Rishon newspaper in its weekend edition in a rare, candid interview. “In my view, the train has already left the station, and it’s important to understand that the post-Abbas era is around the corner. He’s grown tired and weak, and there are forces working against him,” Elkin said. “In the [Palestinian] street, he is

treated as a dead horse, and that’s part of the reason for the security situation we are going through,” Elkin added, a reference to a wave of Palestinian stabbing, shooting and car-ramming attacks since October. “He himself now understands that his threats to resign threaten his own rule first and foremost, so he now suddenly declares, ‘I’m here.’” Meanwhile, the Palestinians are not immune to the influence of the Arab Spring, which has felled unelected leaders across the Arab world, and led to bloody civil wars in several countries, Elkin pointed out. Palestinians “see the same television and are susceptible to the same spirit as elsewhere in the region. It’s only a matter of time before the Arab Spring gets to them. It’s only natural that this will happen.” Yet despite the signs that the PA’s collapse looms nigh, Elkin continued, “we haven’t sufficiently internalized” the significance of these developments. A former chairman of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee and one-time deputy foreign minister, Elkin believes the Israeli defense establishment is not planning for what is to come. “It’s not a question of understanding, but of internalizing. There is a basic mistake here of sticking one’s head in the sand and clinging to the existing situation, and this leads to blindness. But the writing is on the wall, and the Palestinian Authority will collapse in any case, without any connection to us.” Of the many possible scenarios that may ensue from this collapse, he told Makor Rishon, the most likely is “anarchy.” “There is almost zero chance that an heir will arise as [Abbas] did after Yasser Arafat. There isn’t anyone who can take the keys by consensus.” Power may be shared after Abbas is ousted, which would be an unpresented move; Hamas may endeavor to take over; or most likely, “a war of all against all, a battle to inherit, and everything that flows from that” would take place. It’s a battle that “will require from us a more active stance, because it will mean the de facto collapse of the Palestinian Authority. There won’t be a single address or hierarchy to work with. The [Palestinian] security agencies will be fighting each other. It’s also possible that the security services, or parts of them, will turn their weapons against Israelis, as

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happened in the Second Intifada, or militias will arise who will fight for money.” The collapse is certain, Elkin argues; its ramifications, for the moment at least, “are unknowable.”

Palestinian Workers Banned from Settlements

In the wake of two attacks in two days – one in which a mother was fatally stabbed outside her home – Israel is temporarily banning all Palestinian workers from West Bank settlements. The decision is open-ended but will be reviewed daily. “In light of daily situation assessments and following recent terror attacks, security measures have

been taken in the Judea and Samaria region,” an IDF spokesperson said. The commander of the IDF’s Judea and Samaria Division, Brig. Gen. Lior Carmeli, decided that “Palestinian workers cannot enter Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria.” On Sunday, a Palestinian terrorist knifed Dafna Meir to death at the entrance to her home at Otniel, in the Hebron Hills. Meir was laid to rest on Monday. Workers were already banned from settlements in that area as of Monday as her assailant was still on the run on Monday night. On Monday morning, a Palestinian teenager stabbed and moderately injured Michal Froman, who is 18 weeks pregnant, inside the Bethlehem area settlement of Tekoa. Following the stabbing, Palestinian workers were barred from the settlement. Thankfully, Michal was stable and out of surgery later that day and the baby is considered stable and unharmed, doctors said. Thousands of Palestinians — as many as 20,000 by some estimates — are employed inside settlements, mostly in construction, manufacturing and agriculture.

In June 2014, thousands of Palestinian workers were barred from settlements in the Etzion settlement bloc and elsewhere during a search for three kidnapped Israeli teens. That move, which was seen as a way of putting pressure on the Palestinian population, drew the ire of some Jews, who said the directive harmed their businesses.

An Untraditional State of the Union Address

As promised by the White House in advance, President Obama’s final State of the Union Address, delivered on Tuesday, January 12, 2016, was anything but traditional. The president used this annual event to defend his record and lambast his opponents, at the same time bemoaning the lack of unity in Washington. Regarding ISIS, Mr. Obama argued that the “over-the-top claims that this is World War III just play into their hands. Masses of fighters on the back of pickup trucks, twisted souls plotting in apartments or garages, they pose an enormous danger to civilians, they have to be stopped, but they do not threaten our national existence. That is the story ISIL wants to tell; that’s the kind of propaganda they use to recruit.” Although he didn’t use their names, Mr. Obama took on the two front-running 2016 Republican candidates. In an apparent response to Cruz’s call to “carpet bomb” the Islamic State, Obama said: “Our answer needs to be more than tough talk or calls to carpet bomb civilians. That may work as a TV sound bite, but it doesn’t pass muster on the world stage.” He also noted – likely referring to recent statements by Donald Trump – that “when politi-

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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cians insult Muslims...that doesn’t make us safer. That’s not telling it like it is. It’s just wrong. It diminishes us in the eyes of the world.” Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R- KY) took exception to the president injecting politics into the State of the Union address, later telling USA Today, “That’s not what presidents ought to be talking about in State of the Union addresses.” After criticizing the Republican candidates, Mr. Obama noted with faux humility, “It’s one of the few regrets of my presidency – that the rancor and suspicion between the parties has gotten worse instead of better. I have no doubt a president with the gifts of Lincoln or Roosevelt might have better bridged the divide.” Amongst the guests seated near First Lady Michelle Obama were a Syrian refugee, an American soldier who stopped a gunman from attacking a passenger train in Europe, and one of the first women to complete the Army’s Ranger School. Additionally, there was a vacant seat, for those killed by gun violence. Although this may have been the president’s swan song in front of a joint session of Congress, only 31.3 million people watched it, the smallest audience recorded since ratings company Nielsen started keeping track in 1993. His first State of the Union address was watched by 66.9 million people.

Most Edited Wikipedia Page of All Time

Many people have a lot to say about George W. Bush. That is, “many” people have “a lot” to say about him. According to Wikipedia, which marked its 15th anniversary last week by releasing a ranking of its pages based on how many edits have been made by volunteers, George W. Bush took the top spot with 45,862 edits. The rest of the list is a mixture of controversial figures, pages that need to constantly be updated, and Wikipedia itself. Since its launch in 2001, Wiki-

pedia has grown to more than 36 million articles, with approximately 80,000 volunteer editors contributing to the website. “Wikipedia challenged us to rethink how knowledge can be gathered and shared,” said Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales. “Knowledge is no longer handed down from on high, instead it is freely shared by everyone online. Wikipedia seemed like an impossible idea at the time – an online encyclopedia that everyone can edit. However, it has surpassed everyone’s expectations over the past 15 years, thanks to the hundreds of thousands of volunteers around the world who have made Wikipedia possible.”

Trump-Cruz “Bromance” Ends at Sixth Republican Debate

Nobody summed up last Thursday night’s Republican debate in Charleston, South Carolina, better than frontrunner Donald Trump, who declared in the post-debate spin room that the “bromance is over” between him and second-in-the-polls Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Tx). Until recently, Trump and Cruz purposely refrained from going after each other, as their supporters tend to be of similar ilk and they both fear alienating possible future supporters should the other drop out. But, with less than three weeks to the Iowa caucus, despite Trump’s commanding 15 point national lead over his nearest rival (according to Real Clear Politics aggregate of polls), he and Cruz are neck-and-neck in Iowa. It should come then as no surprise that the gloves came off. Early on in the debate, hosted by the Fox Business Network, Trump challenged Cruz’s ability to serve as president as he was born in Canada to a mother who was a U.S citizen.

The U.S. Constitution states that only a “natural born” citizen can be president. The meaning of that term has never been defined by Congress or the courts – does “natural born” mean one born within the U.S. or does it mean that at the moment of birth one was a citizen (which Cruz was, since he was born to an American mother)? Trump argued that if Cruz “beats the rest of the field, I already know the Democrats are going to be bringing a suit.” He jabbed at Cruz and said, “You have a big lawsuit over your head while you’re running. And if you become the nominee, who…knows if you can even serve in office?” Cruz fired back that he did not want to take legal advice from Trump, who admitted to attacking the senator because of his recent rise in popularity, despite saying in September that Cruz did qualify to run. In another exchange between the two, Trump got the better of Cruz after the latter questioned “New York values,” noting how New Yorkers tend to be liberals who are concerned with money and entertainment. In an uncanny somber and reflective tone, Trump responded by recalling memories from after 9/11. “When the

World Trade Center came down, I saw something that no place on Earth could have handled more beautifully, more humanely than New York,” he said. He described the horrific post9/11 clean up and said, “We rebuilt downtown Manhattan and everybody in the world watched and everybody in the world loved New York and loved New Yorkers.” He continued, “And I have to tell you that was a very insulting statement that Ted made.” Cruz implicitly acknowledged Trump’s criticism by joining the audience and clapping. Although Trump and Cruz were the main attraction, the other five candidates on the stage also sought to make their mark at the debate, mostly by going after President Obama’s and Hillary Clinton’s records. Jeb Bush, who since being labeled “low energy” by Trump has been trying to overcome that stigma, quipped that if elected, Hillary Clinton “will be going back and forth between the White House and the court house.” When Sen. Marco Rubio questioned New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie’s conservative credentials, Christie fired back by suggesting Rubio was just playing politics. At another point, the New Jersey governor cut

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off Rubio when he tried to elaborate on entitlements, saying, “You had your chance” and “blew it.” Although the candidates and pundits engaged in their usual post-debate spin regarding who won, as one pundit noted, “Donald stayed until the last microphone shut off, which means he knows he had a pretty good night.”

And One of the Three Winners Is…

Tuesday, January 26, 2016 16 Teves 5776 • 8:15 PM • Program: 9 PM

said, ‘Okay.’ I looked at them, I said, “Yeah, they look like they’re the numbers,’” John recalled. “So, I checked them actually four times and I said I’ll believe it when the news comes on in the morning and they say, ‘Hey, there’s been a winner in Munford,’” he said. The other winning tickets were sold in Chino Hills, California, and Melbourne Beach, Florida, but neither of those winners has come forward to claim their prize yet.

Is “In G-d We Trust” Unconstitutional?

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While we all wait to sort out whether Shlomo Yehuda Rechnitz’s employee is actually the California winner of last week’s world-record $1.6 billion Powerball jackpot, the winners of the ticket purchased in Munford, Tennessee, have been verified and the lucky ones are John and Lisa Robinson. The couple has opted to take the single lump sum of nearly $328 million, rather than the estimated $533 million that they would have received over a 30 year period. John, who is a warehouse supervisor, and Lisa, who works for a dermatologist, both plan on continuing to work at their current jobs. “That’s what we’ve done all our lives, is work,” John Robinson said. “You just can’t sit down and lay down and not do nothing anymore. How long are you going to last?” John Robinson said that they would help certain friends, give to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, and donate to their church. “I’m a firm believer in tithing to my church,” Robinson said in an appearance on NBC’s “Today” show. As the Robinsons related to the “Today Show,” John purchased the four tickets several hours before the drawing. At the time of the drawing, Lisa was watching the drawing on TV, while John was sleeping on the couch. Once Lisa realized their numbers matched, she ran over to where John was asleep on the couch and told him to check the numbers himself. “She said, ‘Check these numbers,’ and I

A lawsuit filed this week on behalf of several atheists is calling on the American government to remove “In G-d We Trust” from American money, claiming the phrase is unconstitutional. This is not the first time some have endeavored to remove G-d from our country’s values and principles. The lawsuit was filed on Monday in Akron, Ohio, by Sacramento attorney Michael Newdow, who in the past failed at least twice in lawsuits against the government calling to remove “under G-d” from the Pledge of Allegiance. Now the attorney has his sights set on the dollar bill, and is alleging that the phrase “In G-d We Trust” constitutes a breach of the constitution’s separation of church and state. One plaintiff in the suit claims his atheism is “substantially burdened because he is forced to bear on his person a religious statement that causes him to sense his government legitimizing, promoting and reinforcing negative and injurious attitudes not only against atheists in general, but against him personally.” A full 41 atheists from Ohio and Michigan are part of the lawsuit. Congress, U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew and several federal agencies are all listed in the lawsuit as defendants.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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With script in hand, President Obama took the podium in the House chamber on Capitol Hill for his final State of the Union Address. The speech touted the Iran nuclear deal, which garnered great applause from the Democrats in the audience, who wait for these applause lines like sea lions being awarded with herrings by their trainers at aquarium performances. The script, though, made no mention of the 10 U.S. sailors who that very day were taken into custody by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard after one of the two vessels that they were traveling in broke down during a training exercise in the Gulf and drifted into Iranian waters. Thankfully, the sailors – nine men and one woman who were held overnight on an Iranian naval base – were released the following morning. Upon releasing the sailors the following morning, Iranian state television released a video of one of the American detained sailors apologizing. “It was a mistake. That was our fault, and we apologize for our mistake,” said Lt. David Nartker. “It was a misunderstanding,” he reiterated. “We did not mean to go into Iranian territorial water.” As if reading off of a script handed to him by his captors, the sailor added that the Iranians had behaved in a “fantastic” manner and thanked them for their “hospitality” and “assistance.” The video also showed the U.S. sailors in a humiliating position upon being captured, on their knees with their hands over the heads. The lone female sailor was given a keffiyeh to cover her head. Although this incident was quickly resolved, it struck a raw nerve with many. Rep. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.) told Real Clear Politics that he was “shocked” that the incident didn’t get mentioned by the president early in his address. “The fact that 10

American sailors were abducted on the high seas today and the president is talking about how we’re more respected internationally than we’ve ever been is troubling to me,” Dent said. “He should have at least acknowledged that these sailors were abducted and that we’re going to get them back.” Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) noted in a statement, “Ten American sailors have been taken into custody in Iran. But President Obama completely omitted this latest example of Iran’s provocative behavior so as not to interfere with his delusional talking points about his dangerous nuclear deal with Iran.” In the aftermath of this incident, Vice President Joe Biden downplayed the incident and told CBS News that the U.S. did not apologize to Iran after the release of the sailors. “When you have a problem with the boat, [do] you apologize the boat had a problem? No,” he explained. “And there was no looking for any apology. This was just standard nautical practice.” Secretary of State John Kerry, though, issued a thank you to the Iranian regime for releasing the U.S. soldiers. “I want to express my gratitude to Iranian authorities for their cooperation in swiftly resolving this matter,” he said. Kerry noted, “That this issue was resolved peacefully and efficiently is a testament to the critical role diplomacy plays in keeping our country safe, secure, and strong.”

Bye-Bye Al Jazeera America

Al Jazeera America arrived with a splash in 2013 when it paid $500 million for Al Gore’s Current TV, gaining access to tens of million U.S. homes. It now leaves with a whimper, as it is going off the air due to virtually no viewership. The network, which is funded by the government of Qatar, has an adults ages 25-43 primetime viewership of 7,000. By comparison, Fox

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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229 Route 110, Farmingdale, NY 11757 (631) 815-5355 News’ primetime viewership in the third quarter of 2015 was close to two million. In a memo announcing the closing, Al Jazeera America’s chief executive, Al Anstey, said the “decision by Al Jazeera America’s board is driven by the fact that our business model is simply not sustainable in light of the economic challenges in the U.S. me-

dia marketplace.” The company, which is going off the air on April 30, had high hopes just three years ago when it hired 700 staffers for a dozen U.S. bureaus. However, it never took off as Americans were rightly suspicious of the network. Perhaps, reflecting a last dying breath, Al Jazeera America recently aired an investigative report

accusing Bronco’s quarterback Peyton Manning of taking performance enhancing drugs. Al Jazeera’s main source has since recanted the claim. When told Wednesday of Al Jazeera America’s plans to shut down, Mr. Manning quipped, “I’m sure it’s going to be just devastating to all their viewers.”

Panic over Lead in the Water in Flint

After doctors noticed high levels of lead in the bodies of young children in the town of Flint, Michigan, families have been taking their children for blood tests and guzzling bottled water for the past few months. “It really is a scary situation to know that we can’t get clean drinking water,” said Sherri Miller, who brought her first grade son, Jameer, to have a finger-prick blood sample tested at his elementary school’s Family Fun Night. “It really is scary to think someone knew about this” and did nothing. Nearly two years have passed since safe drinking water flowed from Flint faucets. The financially troubled city began drawing its water from the Flint River in 2014 to save money. Officials failed to treat the corrosive water properly to prevent metal leaching from old pipes. Worse, residents didn’t learn they were drinking tainted water until the state issued warnings a year and a half after the switch was made. For the city’s 100,000 residents, daily life is now all about lead. Before the crisis, Flint, about an hour’s drive north of Detroit, had become a symbol of the decline of the U.S. auto industry, having suffered waves of auto plant layoffs and the loss of half its population. Forty-one percent of the population falls below the poverty line. These days, it’s a place where parents fear for the health of young children, who can develop learning disabilities and behavior problems from lead exposure. “It has such … lifelong and generational consequences,” said Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha, director of pediatric residency at Hurley Children’s Hospital, where more than 2,000 children have been tested. She is credited with bringing the problem to the public’s attention after state agencies initially dismissed her concerns.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

they want to be tested for lead exposure. He also promised to seek a longterm solution. “This is a crisis. So we’re responding appropriately. There’s more work to be done,” he urged. Snyder’s many critics got louder at midweek, when the governor announced that two spikes in Legionnaires’ disease had occurred in the county that includes Flint during the time Flint River water was used. Ten people died. Michigan health officials said they cannot conclude that the outbreak stemmed from Flint’s water, but others argued it probably had. Late Thursday, Snyder asked President Barack Obama to issue a federal disaster declaration in an effort to get federal aid, a move critics countered should have been taken sooner. The president signed an emergency declaration on Saturday and ordered federal aid for the city.

10 More Guantanamo Terrorists Released

“It was frustrating that it went on for so long,” Hanna-Attisha said, complaining that even since the state began taking action, “everything has been slow.” Gov. Rick Snyder finally acknowledged in late September that the water was unsafe, saying the consequences of switching to Flint

River water were not “fully understood.” The decision to use the river was made while a Snyder-appointed emergency manager was running city government. The city, which had been under state supervision since 2011, returned to local control last April. Flint went back to Detroit water

in October, but some fear the old pipes were so damaged that they must be replaced, at costs estimated as high as $1.5 billion. On Monday, Snyder apologized to Flint and pledged that officials would contact every household to ensure families have bottled water and a filter and to check whether

Last Thursday ten prisoners from Yemen who were held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, were released and sent to the Middle Eastern nation of Oman for resettlement. The prison’s dwindling population of high profile terrorists is down to less than 100, a significant milestone in the Obama administration’s longstalled effort to shutter the detention center. The release comes days after the president declared in his State of the Union address that the prison at Guantanamo “only serves as a recruitment brochure for our enemies.” Obama has promised since the start of his presidency seven years ago that he would close the facility – opened in the aftermath of

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

9/11 to get suspected terrorists off the battlefield. Although Congress has repeatedly blocked the president’s efforts to close the facility, White House Chief of Staff Denis McDonough vowed on “Fox News Sunday” that President Obama will close the Guantanamo Bay detainee facility before his presidency ends in 11 months. Earlier in the week, Guantánamo detainee Muhammad Abd Al Rahman Awn Al-Shamrani, 40, was transferred back to his home country of Saudi Arabia. U.S. officials determined him to be a “high risk” for recidivism, warning he would likely re-engage against the West should he be released from the detention facility. He also allegedly told guards at the facility that he would “kill Americans in Iraq and Afghanistan if released,” according to his leaked confidential file.

Walmart Downsizing Department store giant Walmart announced last week that it is closing 269 stores, more than half of them in the U.S. and another big chunk in its challenging Brazilian market.

The company, which has 11,600 stores worldwide, announced that the large majority of U.S. stores closing are Walmart Express stores, which have been piloted since 2011. Although the closures will affect approximately 10,000 U.S. employees, Walmart, which is based in Bentonville, Arkansas, noted that more than 95 percent of the stores closing in the U.S. are within 10 miles on average of another Walmart, and they hope to place the displaced associates in nearby locations. The announcement comes three months after Walmart Stores Inc. CEO Doug McMillon told investors that the world’s largest retailer would review its fleet of stores with the goal of becoming more nimble in the face of increased competition from all fronts, including from online rival Amazon.com. Walmart, which has a global

workforce of 2.2 million employees – 1.4 million of which work in its 4,500 U.S. stores – states that despite the closing, it still is on a growth trajectory and plans on opening 300 new stores worldwide over the coming year, including 50 to 60 Supercenters in the U.S. To alleviate your main concern: No, the Walmart in Monticello is not one of the stores which is closing.

Jury was Close to You Only Make a Acquitting Police First Impression Officer of Most Once Serious Charge in Freddie Gray Case

St Louis Rams Moving to LA

Twenty one years after abandoning Los Angeles for St. Louis, the NFL has announced that the Rams will be moving back to its former hometown. At the NFL owners’ meeting in Houston last week, 30 of 32 owners voted to ratify the Rams’ relocation application for an immediate move to LA where the team will eventually begin to play at owner Stan Kroenke’s proposed stadium site in Inglewood in 2019. The Rams played in the Los Angeles area for 48 years before moving to St. Louis prior to the 1995 season. Although the city of St. Louis made a strong effort to keep the Rams, the team’s owner, Stan Kroenke, was determined to return the franchise to LA, which is the second largest media market in the U.S. Upon release of the decision, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said in a statement, “Today, with the NFL returning home, Los Angeles cements itself as the epicenter of the sports world.” The Rams could be joined by the San Diego Chargers, who have a oneyear option to decide if they want to relocate and join the Rams in a new stadium that is estimated to cost as much as $2 billion when complete. After the decision was announced, many angry St. Louis fans contributed towards a parting gift sent by a local radio personality to the Rams owner: 30 pounds of animal manure … made in St. Louis, of course.

The high profile trial of Officer William Porter, one of six Baltimore police officers charged with the death of Freddie Gray, ended last month when Baltimore Circuit Court Judge Barry G. Williams declared a mistrial after the jury deliberated for three days without reaching a unanimous verdict. Now the Baltimore Sun is reporting that when the mistrial was declared, the jury was only one vote away from an acquittal of the most serious charge of involuntary manslaughter. The lone juror who recently spoke with the Baltimore Sun said that members of the panel had changed their votes multiple times during the deliberations, but at the end 11 members of the jury wanted to acquit Porter of involuntary manslaughter and there was 1 holdout. The jury included four black women, three black men, three white women and two white men. Prosecutors said Porter failed to secure Gray in a seatbelt when he was called by Officer Caesar R. Goodson Jr., the driver of the van, to check on Gray in the back of the van. They also allege Porter failed to call for a medic when Gray asked for one. Prosecutors consider Porter a witness against the other five officers and are asking the court to force him to testify. That issue is pending before the Maryland Court of Special Appeals, the state’s second-highest court. Porter is scheduled for a retrial in June.

We all know that first impressions are lasting impressions, but how do people form their first impressions? According to psychologist and Harvard Business School professor Amy Cuddy, who has been studying first impressions for more than 15 years, first impressions are not based on the strength of your handshake, how sharp you look or how friendly you seem. Rather it comes down to two questions that people ask themselves: Number 1: Can I trust this person? Number 2: Can I respect this person? In her new book, “Presence,” Cuddy posits that while competence is highly valued, it is evaluated only after trust is established. And focusing too much on displaying your strength can backfire. “A warm, trustworthy person who is also strong elicits admiration, but only after you’ve established trust does your strength become a gift rather than a threat,” explains Cuddy.

Hey, Walter, Where’s Your Wife?

Have you ever gone traveling and left your toothbrush at home? Maybe you’ve forgotten your phone charger or even your phone. But have you ever forgotten your wife?

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

It seems like Walter was in slow mode as he drove home to Argentina from a holiday in Brazil. The mixup happened at a gas station, where he filled up his car and then went to the restroom. His wife, Claudia, was sleeping in the backseat and went out of the car to buy cookies. Walter’s ever-vigilant son was sitting in the front seat of the car playing a game on his phone and didn’t even realize his mother left the car. The two men then continued on their journey, leaving Claudia – and her cookies – behind. When Claudia realized she was stuck without a car and a husband, she tried calling his cellphone, but was not able to reach him due to signal problems. She then elicited the assistance of the local police, who brought her to the station until her husband returned two hours later. A traffic police officer in the Brazilian area of Passo Fundo said the wife was so angry she kicked the car when she returned. Suffice it to say, Walter, I’d say: no cookies for you.

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This kid’s birth was really smooth sailing. On Sunday, one of the world’s largest cruise ships pulled into the dock in Brooklyn, NY, with an unusual — but adorable — new bit of cargo. A passenger on the Queen Mary 2 gave birth to a baby boy late Saturday night, just before the ship docked. The proud new mom, a German woman identified only as Johanna, was on a transatlantic trip from England when she gave birth to the first baby born on the vessel. The new addition really wanted to start cruising early; she wasn’t due to have her new baby for another three weeks. The doctor onboard the ship helped deliver the bouncing baby boy: Benjamin Brooklyn. I’m guessing the baby gets free cruises for the rest of his life.

A Truck of Change

A candy seller in China paid for his new truck with a mountain of small change last week. Mr. Cai brought 80,000 yuan ($12,000) in small denomination bills and coins to the auto dealership in Southeast China last Monday, the South China Morning Post reports. The cash weighed at least half a ton and was stuffed inside 10 crates. The mammoth deposit stunned staff. “I have never seen so much cash in my life,” sales manager Gu Liyuan said. But dealership manager Yang Huai said the man, surnamed Cai, was a “loyal customer and has already bought four cars from us, so we have to help him solve this problem.” Thirteen employees spent more than 10 hours counting the money. Cai, who sells candy and biscuits to villagers, said he usually receives payment for his goods in change and had “too much to exchange for larger bank notes.” “Although some people might think that I’m flouting my wealth by paying for everything in small change, but it’s all I have and I just hope that the other person will accept them,” he added. Lesson for life: no matter how big or small, cash is king.

Man Proposes 150 Times Ray Smith has been taking his time popping the big question. In fact, it took him five months to propose to his now-fiancée. Five months of her not even noticing that he is proposing. The 38-year-old from England

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

would take numerous photos with Claire Bramley over that time. In the photos, he would sneak in a small card that said: “Will you marry me?” Most of the photos were taken as selfies and he would take two, just in case Claire wanted to see the photo – and then see his proposal. Supposedly, he needed to plan for the main event while taking these itty, bitty photo steps.

Finally at the end of last year, Ray popped the big – and final question – to Claire with a slideshow of his sneaky photos. Thankfully, Claire said yes – and it only took her a few minutes. “I was totally surprised,” Claire said. “But in hindsight it’s exactly the kind of thing he does.” “I just wanted to prove how much” I want to marry her, Ray says.

Police in India Go Bananas

If you’re going to steal jewelry and then swallow it, you better like bananas. After a thief in India stole a gold chain from a woman in Mumbai, police were able to ascertain that the loot didn’t go far – it was still in the crook’s digestive tract. So officials employed an unorthodox technique. They force-fed him 40 bananas throughout the day after deciding that surgery would be too expensive to perform. “He was fed more than 40 bananas throughout the day,” said Mumbai police senior inspector Shankar Dhanavade. “Eventually the chain was found. We made him wash and disinfect it.” It is not the first time Mumbai police have used the fruit to recover sto-

len goods. In July of last year, a gold chain was recovered after a thief was made to eat two dozen bananas and drink several liters of laxative-laced milk, according to the Hindustan Times. Several months earlier, a thief was fed five dozen bananas after swallowing a gold chain with a large pendant. I would say that thieves in Mumbai should make like a banana and split.

The Senior Stunt

The mayor of Cranston, Rhode Island, stood next to a woman at a news conference earlier this month touting a program for snow shoveling in the city. The woman wore a wig, earrings, lipstick and a dress along with

a nametag that read “Cranston Senior Home Resident.” Wait, we may have reported that incorrectly. You see, the female senior citizen in the dress and lipstick was not actually a female. It was a middle-aged male who was persuaded by a city official to dress up for the photo op. He worked as a van driver at the senior center. Obviously, there was egg on many faces when the faux woman/senior incident was uncovered. Sue Stenhouse, the city’s director of senior services, organized the news conference. She resigned last week. Mayor Allan Fung, the 2014 Republican nominee for governor, did not return a phone message seeking comment. At the hair salon where the man, David Roberts, procured the wig, the owner was just as mortified. “He says to me, ‘Elaine, do you have a wig that I could borrow? I have to get dressed as a senior,’” Elaine Mancuso recalled. She later realized why he wanted it. “I said, ‘Oh, my G-d. He wanted it for that.’ I probably would have given him a better wig if I had known.” Didn’t your mom tell you? It always pays to look your best – no matter where you’re going.

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the

Community Bringing the Torah to Life

he fifth grade boys in Rabbi Friedler’s and Rabbi Hersh’s classes in Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island recently completed learning Parshas Beshalach and have been busy building, cutting and assembling

their many Parshas Beshalach projects. These projects depict many scenes from the beginning of the parsha until the end. The projects are set up in the sequence which they happened in the weekly sedra and are prominently dis-

played in the lobby of the Yeshiva. The boys become tour guides and young rabbeim as they explain the scene of their project. Viewing the parsha in such a setting brings the Torah alive to the boys in fifth grade as well as all the

boys who stop by to take a look at each scene. This was a great tool to help the boys review the parsha in a way they will not forget for a long time.

CAHAL Students Shine in Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam

he success of the CAHAL model is measured both in small steps and big steps. On a daily basis, the first grade CAHAL students at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam have been building and mastering the limudei kodesh skills of kriah and kesiva. Their highly skilled and experienced morah, Ms. Zachariash, has been using research-based programs to teach her students. Morah Zachariash inspired her students by sharing with them how special it is to learn to read so that they will be able to read the milim to daven to Hashem. To date, the girls have learned all their letters and vowels, and they are working on reading and writing multi-syllable words while developing a solid Hebrew sight word vocabulary. In preparation for receiving their siddurim, the girls have been practicing reading words from different tefillos. Tuesday, January 19, was the date set for their Chumash play with Morah Levy’s class. With huge excitement, the students practiced to-

gether with their friends, rehearsing their individual speaking parts as well as all the heartfelt songs. Finally, the big day arrived! Before an audience filled with parents and siblings, Morah Zachariash’s and Morah Levy’s students joined together and performed with confidence. After the performance, each girl was awarded her very own siddur, given to her by Rabbi Nosson Neuman, the Dean of Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam. Rabbi Neuman and Mrs. Leah Zytman, principal, have established a close relationship with every student at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam, and CAHAL is so grateful for the warm welcome and inclusive atmosphere that permeates the building. Along with their second grade CAHAL classmates, the girls are looking forward to participating in other exciting mainstream events and projects that are scheduled for the rest of the school year. CAHAL, the local yeshiva-based and sponsored community program for children with learning challeng-

es, now in its 24th year, provides smaller, more individualized classes in the local yeshivas catering to children’s learning styles, where all the students attend mainstream activities daily, including lunch, recess, specials, assemblies, trips and more. When ready, children attend academic classes as well, with support from CAHAL to ensure success.

The experienced and caring CAHAL teachers make it all happen. Registration is now open for September 2016. For more information about the CAHAL program and donating to this great community organization, contact CAHAL at cahal@cahal.org or call (516) 295-3666.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

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Achiezer’s Annual Tribute Dinner: We Are All Achiezer

ach year, the entire Five Towns and Far Rockaway community joins together to attend Achiezer’s annual dinner. An evening of energy, excitement, hope and reflection, this event is a chance to celebrate Achiezer’s tremendous accomplishments on behalf of the community and to pay tribute to our community’s heroes. On Sunday, February 28, 2016, our community will once again join at the Sands Atlantic Beach in support of this trailblazing organization that unites us all together. Building upon the previous dinner’s theme, this annual dinner will be a tribute to our community’s heroes. Because We Are ALL Achiezer. Each and every one of us plays a vital supporting role in contributing our part to create one community, with one heart. Achiezer is an organization of real people and real community members, uniting in sight of a greater vision and coming together to help each other in times of need. Our esteemed dinner honorees are devoted individuals who dedicate every minute of their lives to service the community: Shlomo and Raizy Hackel, Guests of Honor; Honorable Ben Weinstock, Mayor of the Village of Cedarhurst, Man of the Year; Dr. Deborah Dienstag, Esteemed Physician Appreciation Awardee; and Eliahu and Chaia Frishman, Community Service Awardees. When Shlomo and Raizy Hackel spent time in the hospital with a close family member, there was no kosher food or respite room available. When Raizy found out that Achiezer was taking on an initiative to supply local hospitals with fresh food and a quiet place to rest, she knew she wanted to take part in it. Since then, she has faithfully restocked the South Nassau Achiezer Kosher Respite Room each week. Says Raizy, “I am happy that my entire family has become involved with Achiezer – to experience the beauty of an organization with a network of volunteers and millions of moving parts.” Honorable Ben Weinstock has spent the better part of the last 25 years in municipal affairs, anticipating the community’s every need. As Mayor of the Village of Cedarhurst,

he’s the man who oversees all its expenditures, negotiations, agreements and disaster preparedness, among countless other responsibilities. Yet, no task is too small for the mayor; he keeps his finger on the pulse of the minute day-to-day problems that arise, often collaborating with Achiezer in service of the community. Says the Mayor, “Achiezer is the first, last and middle resort for so many members of the community. I’ve always supported anything and everything Achiezer does; it’s an organization our community is lucky to have.” Dr. Deborah Dienstag plays many roles – as pediatrician, community activist, parent and grandmother. Through her large, multi-generational practice in the community for more than 30 years, she has become very closely connected with the community and its needs. When Achiezer first began, Rabbi Boruch Ber Bender consulted with Dr. Dienstag. She suggested that Achiezer form a medical referral network to help people locate and secure the top specialists. Dr. Dienstag is constantly in close contact with Achiezer, seeking advice on medical referrals and offering her assistance in community endeavors. Eliahu and Chaia Frishman, longstanding Achiezer volunteers, have been with Achiezer from its inception. As the owners of Fruit Platters and More, they often provide Achiezer with cut fruits and salads for families spending Shabbos in the hospital. The Frishmans also volunteer to drive homebound people to appointments, provide pro bono writing services for Achiezer publications and serve as advisors for the financial management department, helping those who need budgeting advice. The trickle-down of chessed prompted their 17-year-old son, Efraim Shalom, to teach himself to read Megillas Esther so he can help Achiezer lein for the home-bound and inspired their 15-year-old daughter Shoshana to volunteer with children who have special needs. The everyday acts of these ordinary people are what truly makes this organization so extraordinary. To make a reservation or place an ad in the journal, please contact dinner2016@Achiezer.org or visit achiezerdinner.org.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Third Graders at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam Learn about the Life of Rashi

play for the school. All the students loved looking at them and were interested in the stories behind the scenes in the dioramas. Now, thanks to the third graders’ display, preschoolers and elementary school students have become knowledgeable about Rashi.

G R W EA T E SH W IP ED W DI O NG RL DW GI F ID T! E!

he third grade girls have reached a milestone in their learning. They have begun learning Rashi! Before actually learning the Rashi letters the girls learned a lot about Rashi himself. They heard many stories about Rashi’s parents, his life, his brilliance, tzidkus and hasmada. They then made dioramas depicting either a story that happened to Rashi or his parents. After this comprehensive introduction, the girls were able to start learning Rashi with an appreciation of the tzaddik who wrote the meforash that elucidates the Torah for us. The girls’ dioramas were on dis-

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re you staying local for the upcoming vacation? We have the perfect “staycation”schedule for you and your children at the Levi Yitzchak Library! Join us Monday, January 25, for a special Tu B’Shvat Story Time at 3:30PM Monday evening at 7:30PM, we invite all women & girls for a video presentation featuring Belle and the Baroness, an all new hit musical for women by women! $12 admission Tuesday, January 26, the library will feature a surprise video presentation at 2PM & 4PM. Wednesday, January 27 at 2PM, the library will be hosting a spec-

tacular show by The Small Wonder Puppet Theater! Members/$10; Non Members/$12; Max Per Family/$30 Thursday, January 28, there will be an two interactive story times, in honor of Tu B’Shvat at 3:30PM & 5:30PM. In addition to all of these events, the library will have crafts available daily for $5. Please note our special winter break hours for the week of January 24-January 28: Sunday: 11-5, Monday: 12-5, Tuesday: 11-7, Wednesday: 11-5:30, Thursday: 11-7. For more information call 516374-2665 or email info@lylibrary. org.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the Community

Defensive Driving Saves Lives

haverim teamed up with The Marion and Aaron Gural JCC for our second defensive driving course on January 6, 2016. We had an amazing turnout for the course! Thank you to all who came to the course we appreciate your support. For those of you who couldn’t make it…please join us for the next one. Chaverim will be co-hosting another Defensive Driving Course on March 7th at The Marion and Aaron Gural JCC. There are so many benefits to taking the Defensive Driving Course. The Course is approved by the NYS – DMV, is recognized by ALL NYS auto insurance companies and gets up to four violation points off

your record in addition to a 10% discount off of your insurance (Liability, PIP, Collision) on all your vehicles for up to 3-4 full years. It’s an easy class to take with NO tests. Please email info@Chaverim5t.

org if you are interested in joining us. Spaces fill up quickly so be sure to reserve your spot. Both Chaverim and The Marion and Aaron Gural JCC work very hard towards helping our community. We

appreciate all of your support. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/chaverim.fivetowns.3; https://twitter.com/Chaverim5T

PAL is now 3-3 and Pizza Nosh is 1-5. ITP 38; Visual Image 36- In a very tight game in which Mendy Schiffenbauer had 0 points – you heard right 0 points – ITP still managed to pull

this one off. Aryeh Kamelhar’s last second shot for ITP helped seal the deal in this nail-biter. ITP remains a perfect 6-0 while Visual Image is 2-4.

FBL Week #6 Recap Junior Division Oh Baby continues to ride the undefeated season, as they beat Jewish Connection 26-18. Jonathan Tzubary continues to lead the way for Oh Baby, as he scored 15 points. Yitzi Ponzak tries hard every week to bring his Jewish Connection team to victory, and this week was no different. He scored 11 points, however, his teams remains 2-4. Rami’s Pizza dominated against Five Towns Jewish Times, as they more than doubled up on them. Mutty Iszak was unstoppable with 24 unanswered points. New addition Chaim Tzvi Guttman helped out majorly with 20 points as well. In the loss, Yossi Harar tried to bring his team within reach, however his 13 points were to no avail. Rami’s is now 3-3 while 5TJT is 1-5. Intermediate Division Horsepower Electric beat up on Buzz Magazine with a score of 8463. It was close during parts of the game, however, David Suad’s sea-

son high 41 was too much for Yitzchok Devor and Co. Avrumi Ehrman helped Horsepower with 22 as well. Yitzchok Devor’s 29 and Zevy Finkelstein’s 24 were not enough in this one. Will Buzz be getting a trade next week? China Glatt 40; Batampte Pickles 37: With a mid-game injury for Batampte’s star Shimon Greenwald, Batampte was looking down. Aryeh Ponzak tried to pick up the slack with his 13 points. However, Leiby Leibowitz and Co. were too strong now more than ever. Leiby ended the game with 28 points and now hold the #1 seed with a 5-1 record. Senior Division Plaza Auto Leasing (PAL) 57; Pizza Nosh 31- Two weeks after the three-way trade was made for Pizza Nosh they continue to struggle on the floor. Yehudah Fonfeder had 17 points for Pizza Nosh, however, it was not enough to hold off a more powerful PAL. It was 29-12 PAL at half, and there was no turning back.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Chazara Siyum at YFR

Ari Lieberman reading

t was another special night at Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. On Thursday, January 7, bochurim, parents, rabbeim, and community members came together to celebrate a siyum of 7 seven bochurim of the yeshiva, who were mesayam Masachtos Bava Basra. It has been a tradition throughout the years for the bochurim to chazar the previous year’s masachta. It was started by the yeshiva’s very own Rabbi Kalish, who is always telling the bochurim how chazara is the ikor (to review what you learn is crucial). After a few short remarks by Yisrael Bachrach, who explained how hard it is to set time every day to do a blatt and a half, he introduced the 12th grade maggid shiur Rabbi Yoel Genuth. Rabbi Genuth, a former talmid of the yeshiva (who was part of the chazarah siyum as a bochur) gave a beautiful dvar Torah, stressing the importance that everyone should set time to chazar whatever they can, even if Bava Basra might be a little to challenging, every bochur should have their own “Bava Basra.’ Following his speech, the mesaymim were called up. Ari Lieberman read the last Gemara. Gavriel Braun read the last Rashbam and Elchonan Messner, a choshve 12th grader, read the hadran. Finally Kaddish was recited by the Menahel, Rabbi Brafman. After the Kaddish there was a hectic

scramble by the entire yeshiva towards the mesaymim, to wish each one of them a heartfelt mazel tov. Then came the dancing that was so leibidik, it only could have come because of the shared sense of accomplishment and simcha that everyone felt for the mesaymim. The music was provided by Reuven Tillim, a 10th grader in yeshiva. A family member in attendance wanted to know if every siyum in yeshiva feels this special. The answer was yes. After quite a bit of dancing, kugel and poppers were served, followed by more dancing that went late into the night. Many 9th and 10th grade bochurim, who did not yet have a chance to make a siyum on a masachta in yeshiva were inspired by the experi-

Chaim Feller, Gavriel Braun, Yisrael Bachrach, Ari Lieberman, David Braunschweig, Elchonon Messner, and Eli Slansky

Yisrael Bachrach

Rabbi Yoel Genuth

ence. They can’t wait for the chance to count themselves among those finishing the masachta. Kudos to Yisrael Bachrach for all the necessary preparation that made the siyum possible. A special thanks to Dr. and Mrs. Yitzy Braunschweig,

Mr. and Mrs. Nesanel Feller, and the Gewritz family for helping sponsor the siyum. The next Chazarah cycle began Sunday morning, with hopefully many more bochurim joining along for the ride.

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Helping yo

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Clothing & Shoes, in ANY condition!

At Shulamith, Israel is never far from our hearts and minds. Though it’s still quite cold here in the USA, in our homeland, it’s almost time for the trees to emerge from their winter sleep! Tu B’Shvat will arrive during midwinter break, so in Shulamith, the Middle Division got a jumpstart on the season with a fun-filled activity. Each student decorated a flower pot and then planted some seeds. In the next few weeks, the girls will have the chance to watch what blooms; will it be marigolds or pine trees? By the time the New Year for Trees arrives in Israel, our plants will hopefully begin to blossom!

Live & Learn

t this week’s Learn & Live Program, R’ Dovid Frischman came back to present Borer part II, “Stop Picking on Me.” There were soda bottles representing Chumushim, black and white socks, oranges and much more for an all-out borer fiasco. For more info the program, email learnandlivefr@gmail.com.

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

HaGaon HaRav Yeruchim Olshin and HaGaon HaRav Yaakov Forchheimer to Address First Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Maggidei Shiurim Conference By Chaim Gold

hat event is compelling enough to cause the Rosh Yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha, HaGaon HaRav Yeruchim Olshin, shlita, and Lakewood’s senior posek, HaGaon HaRav Yaakov Ephraim Forchheimer, shlita, to take precious time from their busy Sunday afternoon schedules and feel gratified to impart chizuk and guidance upon an assemblage of talmidei chachomim? The answer lies in Dirshu’s Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program and its unique cadre of elite maggidei shiur spread across the North American landscape. Dirshu’s Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program is the most popular daily halacha program in the world. Many tens of thousands throughout the world learn the daily daf of Mishnah Berurah with the Biurim U’Musafim. As a result, their knowledge of halacha and their cognizance of Hashem’s presence in everything they do has been enriched.

Honoring the Heroes of Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Who are the heroes of the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program? Who is the engine that is a driving force, playing a tremendously important role in ensuring that the gift to Klal Yisrael of Daf HaYomi B’Halacha remains a “kol gadol v’lo yosaf - a powerful voice that never stops?” Without a doubt it is the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggidei shiur. These great talmidei chachomim who – day in and day out – spend hours of time preparing the shiur, delivering the shiur and answering questions before, after and during the shiur, perform a service that immeasurably enriches Klal Yisrael. This coming Tu B’Shevat, Sunday, January 24, a unique event will be taking place exclusively for Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggidei shiur. “The Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Maggidei Shiurim Conference” will be a unique maamad, the first such event ever to take place where Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggidei shiur from across the United States and Canada will meet in Lakewood for a conference devoted to networking and enhancing their ability to impact

Klal Yisrael. Rabbi Ahron Gobioff, Dirshu’s American Director, relates, “The Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Maggidei Shiurim Conference, will present a rare opportunity for Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggidei shiur to come together, compare notes and share strategies on how best to reach every member of their shiur and how best to give over the often complex material in the clearest, most concise way possible.”

ur at Beth Medrash Govoha, will also address the assemblage and discuss many ways to tackle difficult problems and issues of mutual interest to enhance the delivery of the daily shiur. In addition, the maggidei shiur will be informed of numerous aids to help them in their quest to impart shemiras halacha to large segments of Klal Yisrael. Notably among them is the special e-mail group for maggidei shiurim. The group is moderated by

Guidance from Illustrious Marbitzei Torah The event, to be held at the home of Rabbi and Mrs. Yosef Novoseller in Lakewood, is exclusively for Dirshu maggidei shiur. One highlight of the event will be the divrei bracha and divrei chizuk by the Rosh Yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha, Lakewood, HaGaon HaRav Yeruchim Olshin, shlita. Another very important drasha will be given by Lakewood’s senior posek, HaGaon HaRav Yaakov Ephraim Forchheimer, shlita, Dayan in Beth Medrash Govoha and Rav of Kehal She’eris Adas Yisrael of Lakewood. Rav Forchheimer rarely gives public addresses outside of his own shul, but in this case because of the primacy of limud halacha that the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha embodies, Rav Forchheimer agreed to give words of guidance and hashkafa to the maggidei shiur addressing both the importance of teaching practical halacha and the best way to impart the often complex topics to their listeners. The Conference will also feature a comprehensive address from Rav Dovid Hofstedter, Nasi of Dirshu and a Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggid shiur since the program’s inception more than eight years ago. HaRav Moshe Chaim Kahan, shlita, Rav of Kehal Sholom V’Reyus and a Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggid shiur who delivers the very popular shi-

HaRav Asher Eisenberger, shlita, Rav of Agudas Yisrael Mogen Avrohom of Detroit and a Daf HaYomi B’Halacha maggid shiur in Detroit. Dirshu has recently begun releasing its popular, monthly Daf HaYomi B’Halacha Bulletin in English. Until now the bulletin, that discussed fascinating topics and halachic questions related to the previous month’s learning, was only available in Hebrew. Emissaries of the Nesius In truth, the maggidei shiur in the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha program act not only as marbitzei Torah but also as special sheluchei d’rabannan, emissaries of the senior Gedolei Yisrael both in the United States and in Eretz Yisrael who comprise the Nesius of Daf HaYomi B’Halacha and have called on all Yidden to incorporate daily practical halacha such as the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha into their daily learning schedule. The members of the American Nesius are the Skulener Rebbe, shlita; the Roshei Yeshiva of Lakewood, HaGaon HaRav Aryeh Malkiel Kolter, shlita, and HaGaon HaRav Yeruchim Olshin, shlita; HaGaon HaRav Yosef Harrai Raful, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva, Yeshiva Ateret Torah; HaGaon HaRav Matisyohu Salomon, shlita, Mashgiach Beth Medrash Govoha, Lakewood; the Vizhnitzer Rebbe of Monsey; shlita, HaGaon HaRav Elya Ber Wachtfogel, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of South Falls-

burg; HaGaon HaRav Yechezkel Roth, shlita, the Karlsberger Rov; and HaGaon HaRav Asher Anshel Katz, shlita, the Vienner Rav. The Nesius in Eretz Yisrael features HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Ponovezh; the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, shlita; HaGaon HaRav Shimon Baadani, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva Torah V’Chaim; the Sanzer Rebbe, shlita; the Boyaner Rebbe, shlita; HaGaon HaRav Dovid Cohen, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Chevron; the Alexander Rebbe, shlita; the Modzhitzer Rebbe shlita; and HaGaon HaRav Binyomin Finkel, shlita, Mashgiach of the Mir Yeshiva of Yerushalayim. The evening will culminate with a fascinating video presentation featuring divrei chizuk about Daf HaYomi B’Halacha from numerous Gedolei Yisrael including HaGaon HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman, shlita, HaGaon HaRav Gershon Edelstein, shlita, the Vizhnitzer Rebbe, shlita and the Sanzer Rebbe, shlita. Dirshu’s Beth Medrash Govoha Kollel Erev Milestone Siyum Later the same night, Dirshu’s Kollel Erev led by Rav Akiva Ort, will be making a milestone siyum on an entire machzor that they have learned and been tested on over the past few years. The machzor comprises of Masechtos Shabbos, Beitza, Niddah, Eruvin, and Chulin. This machzor is in addition to the siyum of nine Masechtos normally learned in yeshiva that the Chabura has already completed. HaGaon HaRav Malkiel Kotler, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva, Beth Medrash Govoha, and Rav Dovid Hofstedter, Nasi of Dirshu are slated to address the event. As the maggidei shiur meet to strategize about even better ways to reach all Yidden, now is the time for all who have not yet joined the Daf HaYomi B’Halacha to join. Your life will never be the same. To obtain a schedule, a calendar and a list of shiurim near you, please call Dirshu at 1-888-5Dirshu or e-mail, Info@KollelDirshu.org

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

YOSS Hosts Rabbi Aaron Brafman at Rosh Chodesh Breakfast

he Mechina boys, grades 6-8 at Yeshiva of South Shore, were privileged to hear from Rabbi Aaron Brafman, Menahel at Yeshiva of Far Rockaway, at their Rosh Chodesh Shevat breakfast. Rabbi Chanina Herzberg, Menahel HaYeshiva, introduced him warmly as both a close personal friend of Rabbi Brafman and a YFR parent. Rabbi Brafman spoke to the boys about the fresh beginning Rosh Chodesh presents, the greatness each of us can strive for, and the incredible potential every talmid has if we only work to achieve it. Rabbi Rafi Draiman, the Menahel HaMechina, then introduced the new middah of the month, Nosei B’ol Im Chavero, sensitivity and empathy to share our

friend’s burden, with a number of specific areas of focus such as including others at recess, concerns affecting others in school and Acheinu Bnei Yisroel. Special thank you to Special Programs Coordinator, Rabbi Shlomo Drebin, who helped arrange this special event and led inspiring singing with our boys to mark the occasion. The boys followed with an exciting activity to bring the message to light, where they had to literally carry their friends’ “burden” to succeed! Thank you also to the Ash, Keller, Levine, and Srulowitz families who sponsored the event in honor of their sons and their Rebbeim. It was a big kiddush Hashem and an uplifting event for all!

Cutting Edge Education at Shulamith Early Childhood

rom preschool through high school, Shulamith School for Girls provides a cutting edge education for its students. This year, the Pre-1A classes are benefitting from the expertise of Mrs. Ashley Charnoff. Mrs. Charnoff is a math mentor, who is assisting in creating a Common Core math curriculum for the three Pre-1A classes in Shulamith. She meets with Pre-1A teachers and assistants once a week and provides a

weeklong lesson plan for teachers to follow. She then divides her time in each classroom, modeling and working directly with the students. Mrs. Charnoff uses a hands-on approach, employing manipulatives and sensory integration to engage the girls. It’s remarkable to watch our preschoolers gain an awareness of math, problem solving and critical thinking tools, all while having lots of fun!

Yeshiva University Students Present North America’s Largest Jewish Book Sale

he students of Yeshiva University will hold their annual Seforim Sale, North America’s largest Jewish book sale, from Feb. 7-28, 2016, in Belfer Hall, 2495 Amsterdam Ave on YU’s Wilf Campus in Manhattan. The sale is operated entirely by YU students – from ordering books to setting up the premises, marketing and all the technology the project demands. Last year the acclaimed Judaica book sale drew more than 15,000 people from the tri-state area and grossed more than $700,000 in sales. The annual event provides discounted prices on the latest of nearly 10,000 titles in rabbinic and academic literature, cookbooks and children’s books. The 2016 Seforim Sale will also offer a wide range of music and Judaica options from around the world. The Seforim Sale has become a highlight for the YU community, as

students, alumni and members of the community gather to visit their alma mater, see old friends and add books to their personal libraries. Proceeds from the sale support various initiatives, including student activities on campus and undergraduate scholarships. “The Seforim Sale offers one of the largest selections of Jewish works available,” said Sarah Sheps, the Seforim Sale’s director of marketing. “There are titles to suit every taste and we hope the community will take part, both on campus or online, in this annual YU event.” Those who cannot attend the sale can take advantage of the great prices and vast catalog selection by ordering online on the Seforim Sale’s website. For a complete listing of dates and times, to purchase gift certificates or to view the online catalog, visit www.theseforimsale.com.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Club Kosher ”Passover in Paradise: A Culinary Adventure”

elcome to the Club! It will be a holiday to remember as Club Kosher presents “Passover in Paradise: A Culinary Adventure” in spectacular Puerto Rico featuring a never-before-assembled group of highly sought after restaurant chefs, an outstanding program and dazzling entertainment at the magnificent 5 star, 4 diamond, Caribe Hilton Resort in San Juan. Club Kosher is hard at work preparing the Passover of your dreams. Host and program director Elan Kornblum of Great Kosher Restaurants Magazine said that while the lineup of chefs may have gourmands salivating, Club Kosher, now in its fifteenth year, will focus on all aspects of Passover, not just the food. “We put the whole program together from scratch,” said Kornblum. “We have a dream team of all-star chefs and will have a balance of cuisine, with lots of foodie items as well as traditional fare. The program will also feature round-table discussions, demos, classes, wonderful chazzanim and great lecturers, with fabulous entertainment and an unbelievable day camp.” Each of the seven celebrity chefs will be starring in the kitchen during scheduled times, working hand-in-hand with returning program executive chef Meir Elioz of Breadberry, who will be heading the catering team throughout Passover. Chef Seth Warshaw of ETC Steakhouse will be donning his toque and chef’s coat for the first two days of Passover, presenting his signature dishes as well as traditional favorites. Seth will pass the culinary baton to Sruli Eidelman of the legendary Izzy’s BBQ Addiction in Crown Heights for chol hamoed barbecues featuring ribs, brisket, and other signature items. Also in the kitchen will be dairy and vegetarian menu specialist Albert Bijou of Coffee Bar and Chef Gino of Café Renaissance fame. Renowned cooking personality and “Top Chef” participant Chef Katsuji Tanabe of L.A.’s Mexikosher will be running the show for the second Yom Tov days of Passover. The program will also feature Instagram sensation @ChefChaya Lichtenstein (with her 20,000 followers) who will be doing cooking classes and demonstrations on Chol Hamoed

and Claudia Beldirici famed for her “Lottie Biscotti” line. The entire non-gebrokts program will be under the strict rabbinical supervision of Rav Zushe Blech of Monsey. Guests of all ages will enjoy allstar entertainment, with headline concerts featuring recording sensation Matisyahu and the highly acclaimed Moshav Band, in addition to other well-known entertainers, such as the Amazing Kreskin, world-famous mentalist who appeared on the Tonight Show more times than anyone. Several prominent scholars will be on hand, including Special Guest of Honor former U.S. Senator and vice presidential candidate Joe Lieberman and his wife Hadassah, a well-known speaker in her right as women’s rights activist and philanthropist. Rabbi Steven Burg, director of Aish Hatorah and former managing director at the Orthodox Union, international director of NCSY and eastern director of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, will also be spending Passover with Club Kosher as a guest orator. The inimitable Nachum Segal of “JM in the AM” will be a featured speaker and will be reporting live from the Caribe Hilton. Other interactive sessions will include a Q&A meet & greet with Matisyahu, one of the famous Jewish singers in the world; Elan Kornblum, the “Restaurant Guy”; Dr. Len Bielory, allergist specialist/

lecturer; and a round-table session with the all-star chefs sharing their own stories as well as their thoughts on the restaurant industries. Of course, no chag would be complete without inspiring chazzanim and their talented group of baalei tefila include Carlebach davening and havdala by Yehuda Solomon of the Moshav Band, noted Israeli pop singer Shlomo Haviv and the gifted Jeff Rohatiner of Jeff’s Sausages in Los Angeles. Club K Kids Camp directors Yael Rudolph of Camp Lavi and Kelly Yedid of Camp AllSport which be accompanied by NCSY Director Rabbi Simon Taylor as Teen Director, all hard at work preparing incredible activities for the young ones, with a separate Tot/Toddlers director for infant day camp, ensuring that kids of all ages will be kept busy from sun-up to sundown. A kids’ arcade, exclusive movie theater and special theme nights will add to the excitement, making Club Kosher’s kids’ camps awesome and inviting. With its white sand beaches, tropical breezes and low-key atmosphere, Puerto Rico is an oasis of contentment, just a short flight away with no passports required for U.S. citizens. Featuring a wealth of exciting attractions including jet skiing, water sports, the only rain forest in the United States, nearby casinos, Old San Juan minutes away and three spectacular bio-lu-

minescent bays, Puerto Rico is the ultimate vacation destination. The Caribe Hilton is an island jewel, a luxurious oceanfront property with several terraced, stunning outdoor pools, private beach, full service spa, fitness room, tennis and basketball courts, miniature golf, and volleyball, all conveniently located just minutes from some of Puerto Rico’s hottest tourist attractions. With 75% of the rooms booked already, join Club Kosher for a one-of-a-kind, reasonably priced, full-service Passover that is sure to be an experience that you and your family will treasure forever. For more information, please visit, www.ClubKosher.com, email clubkosher2016@gmail.com or call 718-336-4201.

The Secrets of the Trees Page 75

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the Community

Chaverim of Queens Dinner

or the members of Chaverim of Queens, the day started off with the excitement and anticipation of the “Chaverim Member Appreciation Dinner” scheduled for that evening. However, the day took a turn when Chaverim was contacted in regards to a request to begin a search for a missing person. Volunteers were soon mobilized and began hanging up signs in addition to visiting local hospitals to see if the “missing person” was there. At around 4pm, Chaverim coordinators joined a conference call with leaders of other local organizations and the decision was made to put the search on hold over night with an update to follow in the morning. Despite spending a large part of the day coor-

Councilman Rory Lancman presenting the Proclamation from the NYC Council Queens Members Delegation

ed Councilman Rory Lancman who presented Chaverim Of Queens with a Proclamation from the Members of the NYC Council’s Queens Delegation. Other guests included Rabbi Chaim Schwartz from the Vaad Harabonim of

Queens , R’ Yaniv Meirov from Chazaq , and R’ YairJacobs. Chaverim honored long-time active member Eli Munk with the Community Service Award for his dedication to the organization. Chaverim was also honored to receive Proclamations from Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and from Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz . Sponsors for the evening included: Meal Mart , Sushi Tokyo (SaulSteve Goldstein and Simon), Blake’s Jerky ,Seasons Kosher Supermarket (Chaimy, Ushy for pastries and Heshyfor the beautiful fruit platters), Elisha Aryeh (Q109), and Pesach in Panama. New Lockout kits were obtained by Arick Sebag (Q11) & sponsored by Plaza Auto Leasing (PAL) and gifts for the volunteers were sponsored by Josh Greenblatt (Q72), Fabtastic Media , and Yaakov Landau (Q70) of The Javid Group. The owners of East Coast Auto Plaza were in attendance as well so Chaverim had the opportunity to thank them for generously sponsoring the NEW Chaverim APP, which is currently in the development

Please visit www.ChaverimOfQueens.org for more information, pictures, videos and to make a donation to this great organization today.

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Mr Eli Munk, Recipient of Chaverim Community Service Award, Avi Cyperstein, R Yair Jacobs, and R Aaron Cyperstein

dinating with other organizations as well as concerned individuals in regards to the missing person, Chaverim Of Queens had their “Volunteer Appreciation Dinner” as scheduled. Chaverim of Queens is a 100% Volunteer organization which was founded in January 2008 in memory of local Askan, Mr Jack Friedman, whose name is synonymous with abundant Chesed. Mr. Jack Friedman was a very prominent figure in the Community and was well known as a tremendous Baal Chesed worldwide who gave a lot of Charity and was dedicated to Chesed, pure acts of kindness. His family felt that the best way to Honor his namesake would be to dedicate an organization based on true Chesed, in his memory. Chaverim started with just 10 volunteers covering 3-4 calls a day but now has nearly 100 volunteers who respond to thousands of calls for assistance throughout the Queens area every year. The dinner was led by M.C. and President of Chaverim, Rabbi Aaron Cyperstein. Special guests includ-

helped arrange and plan all aspects of the dinner; Moshe Vatch(Q82), Yaakov Landau (Q70), Eli Kreindler (Q73), Tzvi Meltzer (Q42), Marc Ringel (Q46), Josh Greenblatt (Q72), Moshe Rowe (Q10), Elisha Aryeh(Q109) and Rabbi Yair Jacobs.

stages. East Coast Auto Plaza is a local body shop owned and operated by 2 generous Shomer Shabbos friends of the organization who have donated to many causes in Queens and have made themselves available to assist Chaverim when needed. The Dinner took place at Anshe Sholom Chabad JCC , courtesy of Rabbi Hecht (Q39) and aside from being a true success, really gave the volunteers a chance to see how much they are appreciated and how much the organization has grown thanks to their dedication and commitment. Special thanks go out to those who

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

HANC High School’s Principal Visits Alumni Learning in Israel

ANC High School’s Menahel, Rabbi Shlomo Adelman, accompanied by the Director of Israel Guidance, Rabbi Avraham Ismach, visited alumni spending their year in Israel this past week. One of the special highlights was the annual Shana Aleph reunion, which was held at Piccolini, an elegant restaurant in the heart of Yerushalayim. The reunion was an opportunity for the students to share divrei Torah, relive high school memories, and reconnect with each other while enjoying a delicious meal. HANC alumni Kayla Plutzer, Leah Scher, Josh Geller, Adam Levy, Ezra Kushner, Dovid Chai Deil, Shlomo Amsellem, and Yigal Kamel spoke at the event. A special thank you to Rabbi Ismach, who joined Rabbi Adelman, to visit the seminaries and yeshivot and provided special divrei chizuk at the reunion. Upon return from his trip, Rabbi Adelman proudly described the nachat that he received from the students. “It is so powerful to witness firsthand the incredible growth and

development of our students and how beautifully it builds upon the solid foundation that they received at HANC. The hakarat hatov that each of the students has for their HANC education and experience was a recurring theme at each and every yeshiva and seminary that I visited.” HANC is very proud to hear of all our students’ accomplishments and gain nachat from them knowing that they continue to distinguish themselves in their respective yeshivot and seminaries.

Introducing Ryan Gelb

arry & Susan Pugatch are pleased to announce that Ryan Gelb has joined our company as a sales associate at Pugatch Realty in Woodmere. Ryan chose to join Pugatch because it is one of the biggest agencies in the Five Towns area. Ryan grew up in Cedarhurst which is part of the Five Towns and moved back to Woodmere and has loved living here ever since. He is pleased he had the opportunity to join with Pugatch Realty because they have been in business for over 25 years and know the Five Towns better than anyone else. Our team of real estate agents can find you the perfect house, apartment, or commercial property with the best experience and expertise in the business. Ryan is confi-

dent that by being a member of this agency that his future will be in good hands. Working for Pugatch Realty will prove to Ryan that “Nobody Does It Better!” Ryan can be reached at 516-3301233 or at the office at 516-295-3000 or via email at rgelb@pugatch.com.

Can competing stores open on the same block? Page 78

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the Community

HANC Art Enrichment & Gallery

ursery Bet students at HANC’s Samuel & Elizabeth Bass Golding Early Childhood Center were introduced to the world of art by taking part in artist studies to learn about famous artists and their techniques. Each class focused on three artists including Monet, Van Gogh, Kandisky, Mondrian, Seurat, Andy Warhol, Henry Matisse, Picasso, Michelangelo and Jackson Pollack, and ancient Cave Art. After learning about the artists’ unique styles and techniques each student recreated their own version of the artist’s famous paintings using that artist’s style. The students then invited their families to join them for a gala art gallery! “The goal of our Art Enrichment Program is to introduce our students to the beauty and wonder of art and culture. The students love learning about the different artists’ styles and they love exploring their own artistic skills,” explained Morah Trudy Ru-

binstein, Director of the Early Childhood Center. In addition to having their beautiful artwork on display, the students shared delicious goodies that they made in class – “A,” “R,” “T” cookies, paintbrush pretzels and palette cookies. It was beautiful to see the students explore the world of art and bring out their own distinctive artistic talents! Mazal tov to all the students and their Morot on a smashing gallery debut!

Sh’tika Be’Tefilla “Brunch & Bowling”

he boys in Rabbi Eisikovic’s 7th grade class in Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island have been anticipating this day since the beginning of their Sh’tika Be’Tefilla contest a few months ago. The boys as a class earned points daily for proper decorum and behavior during davening and showing respect for the tefillah. The class earned an accumulative 2,000 points for this trip. After learning their regular morning “Seder,” on Wednesday January 13, the boys loaded into a few waiting vehicles to begin their Brunch and Bowl. The first

stop was at Gotta Get a Bagel where the boys dined on a pre-ordered breakfast menu of bagels, muffins, pancakes, waffles, eggs and potatoes and an assortment of drinks. From there they walked across the street to Woodmere Lanes, where they bowled two games and came back to yeshiva in time for Mincha. The enthusiasm of Rabbi Eisikovic is contagious and it was reflected in the smiles of each talmid. The boys as a class are now more committed to tefillah and are anticipating the next step in their Sh’tikah Bee’Tefillah program.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Incredible Fourth Annual Jewish Business Development Networking Event in Queens

Yaniv Meirov, Pinny Ringerl from the Mayor’s office, Yitzchok Saftlas and Yaakov Serle

R’ Daniel Pollack, Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz, Judge Ritholtz and Councilman Rory Lancman

By Susie Garber

he Queens Jewish Link, along with Jewish Business Development, hosted a one-of-a-kind gala networking event in Kew Gardens Hills on Wednesday, January 13. The room at Yeshiva of Central Queens auditorium was filled with community members, local rabbanim, and local politicians. The atmosphere was upbeat and festive, as people exchanged business cards and became acquainted. Both profit and nonprofit businesses were represented. There was wine-tasting provided by Hakerem Wines and Liquors and Chinese food from Soy Sauce. Participants received free T-shirts from Allied T-Shirt with the QJL logo, as well as a bag filled with information about many local businesses. Each person present was given the opportunity to stand up and introduce himself and tell a little about his or her business. Yaniv Meirov, operations Manager of Chazaq, acted as master of ceremonies, interjecting his own brand of enthusiasm into the evening. The first speaker, Shlomo Steiman, Director of Jewish Business Development, along with Jennifer Martin, thanked the Queens Jewish Link. He stated that the goal of this event is to help people in the community to help themselves. He mentioned that JBD holds monthly meetings. Borough President Melinda Katz thanked Yaniv Meirov as well as Yaakov Serle and Naftali Szrolovits for all they do for the community. She noted that Queens is still a borough of neighborhoods. “Queens is moving and shaking. Folks want to come here to live here and to invest here. Events like this perpetuate our great community!” Councilman Rory Lancman then

Councilman Rory Lancman

Guest speaker Yitzchok Saftlas of Bottomline Marketing

Linda Spiegel from Margaret Tietz

shared that he just returned from the Governor’s State of the State address in Albany. He pointed out that networking is so vital. He thanked Queens Jewish Link and Jewish Business Development for their enormous contribution to our community. “It is so wonderful bringing so many businesses and nonprofits together.” Councilman Lancman shared that he reads the Queens Jewish Link cover to cover. He depends on it for our community news. The paper really fills a need in our community, affording us a way to communicate with the whole Jewish community. He thanked Mr. Serle for four years of service. Following this, Rabbi Shmuel Marcus, rav of Congregation Ishei Yisrael, president of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens and maggid shiur at Lander College for Men, imparted, “I marvel at the sensitivity that served as motivation for this evening’s event.” He noted that this type of program provides people with a time and place to discuss business. Events like this can prevent people from discussing business in shul. He pointed out how getting ahead in business can become very self- oriented. It becomes all about “my success.” He then shared a striking d’var Torah from the Gerrer Rebbe that speaks to this idea. In Parshas Bo it says that the plague of Darkness

lasted for three days and people could not see one another. They could not be sensitive to each other. Illumination comes when we see each other and are sensitive to each other’s needs. Rav Chaim of Volozhin taught that a person is created only to assist others in whatever capacity he can. Rabbi Marcus concluded that the Queens Jewish Link and Chazaq, as well as Jewish Business Development, do just that! Next, Yaakov Serle, publisher of the Queens Jewish Link, expressed his gratitude to Naftali Szrolovits. He pointed out that Naftali handles all the writers and the articles. Without him there would be no paper. He thanked Yaniv Meirov as well. He also thanked Shlomo Steiman, Jennifer Martin, and Shoshi Bacon. He then proceeded to name each loyal sponsor by name, and he thanked them all for their support. He gave a special thank you to Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz, who encouraged Mr. Serle to create the paper and has been a loyal sponsor since its inception. Perhaps the very fact that Mr. Serle could name each person and his business individually emphasizes the achdus in our community and shows the small-town feeling we possess. Following this, Yitzchok Saftlas, radio show host on 77 WABC and Founder and President of Bottom Line

Marketing Group, as well as author of So What’s the Bottom Line, delivered an impassioned and energizing speech with concrete tips to help people to succeed in business. He shared the following: • Always be ready. Dress sharply. Be passionate. Show interest in people. You never know when the next opportunity will come. • Effective communication is a must. When you market your business, it is important to market your mission, not your services. Focus on the experience. • Grow your business by delivering customer service. Focus on your existing clients. Make their experience memorable. After this, Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz praised the work of the Queens Jewish Link as an important asset for our community. Before this, we had to find our news in other papers. We needed our own community paper. It was a productive and enjoyable event for all. Our community is truly grateful for all the hardworking organizations like the Queens Jewish Link, Jewish Business Development, and Chazaq, who provide such vital services to our community.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the Community

What’s Going on at YCQ

CQ Torah Bowl team participated in their second meet, where they were asked questions based on their knowledge of Parshiot Shelach and Korach. All students participating worked hard preparing and did an amazing job. Increasing their Jewish knowledge, the nursery students visited the Jewish Children’s Museum learning about Sefer Bereshit, in addition to climbing through a giant challah. There was so much to experience that offered the students an opportunity to participate in a variety of hands-on

activities. As a reward for their hard work, kittah aleph students received their siddurim and performed for their families, friends and YCQ staff. Each student had such pride in receiving their own siddur and all of their hard work certainly showed. Kittah bet students also received their own personalized Chumashim that they will use now and for future learning. Each student felt pride as they walked up to receive their Chumash in front of a packed audience of their relatives and teachers.

Bringing a close to their unit on pollution and conservation, grade 1 and 2 science students put the final touches on their “Recycled Frog Banks” made from recycling that students collected over the past two months. They learned all about the three R’s, Reuse, Reduce and Recycle, and the importance of doing these things to help protect their environment. It was a very busy week of learning and growth at YCQ and the students are looking forward to a relaxing winter break.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Around the Community

Rav Yaakov Moshe Hillel, Rosh Yeshiva of Chevrat Ahavat Shalom in Yerushalayim, recently spoke at Yeshiva Darchei Torah

HAFTR 8th Grade Boys Shabbaton

ast Shabbat the eighth grade boys of the Hebrew Academy of the Five Town and Rockaways (HAFTR) enjoyed an amazing Shabbat filled will fun, inspiration and achdut. The Shabbaton began on Friday morning with an intense, exhilarating and yet friendly football tournament. Thank you to Rabbi Ari Glazer for organizing this event and making sure that the competition was fair, balanced and competitive. On Friday night, the students and their six rebbeim davened together at the White Shul for mincha, kabbalat Shabbat and maariv. The shaliach tzibbur was HAFTR’s very own Rabbi Hulkower. Rabbi Hulkower’s tefillot along with the students’ shook the heavens; there was hearty singing and even dancing around the bima led by the Mora De’atra of the shul, Rabbi Eytan Feiner. It was fitting that Rabbi Hulkower ushered in the Holy Shabbat as he spent many weeks and late nights planning every detail of this Shabbaton. With their hearts and souls overflowing from tefilla and Torah, the students next broke up into groups and went to their Rebbes’ house for the first Shabbat meal. The meal offered delicious food, hearty zemirot and divrei Torah. Each student had a wonderful time seeing their teachers with their families in a relaxed setting. Thank you Rabbis Kirsch, Siff, Glazer and Hulkower for hosting the many students at your homes. A special thank you to the families and rebbetzins for hosting and preparing these meals. Then it was back to the White Shul where the boys played games with

“Zezy” from the Schnitzel Guys and enjoyed a trivia challenge with Rabbi Glazer. The talmidim were then served snacks, soda, delicious potato kugel and sumptuous chulent as they gathered around the table to hear a wonderful story from the incomparable Rabbi Kirsch. Rabbi Kirsch mesmerized the students with an amazing tale about the Chattam Sofer, charity and the supernatural lengths a mitzvah can reach. The next morning all the students were walked over to Yeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv to enjoy an amazing tefilla experience in the beautiful surroundings of this magnificent building; all the students eyes widened as they stepped into the front vestibule and peeked into the beautiful and elegant Beit Midrash. The HAFTR eighth grade boys joined the teen minyan led by Rabbi Yechiel Weberman. After a kiddush that included chulent, kugel and a wide assortment of herring, the students got to meet the Rosh Hayeshiva Rabbi Jaeger and even had the opportunity to wish a Shabbat Shalom to one of the Gedolei Yisrael, HaRav Yaakov Hillel shlita. The students then sat down for an energizing and inspirational speech delivered by Rabbi Yosef Newcomb. It was then time for the Seudah Shniah at the Beis Medrash

Ateres Yisroel (Rabbi Blumenkranz’s shul). They enjoyed delicious salads, cold cuts, shnitzel, roasted chicken fillet, kugel and more chulent. Rabbi Glazer delivered an insightful d’var Torah and our Menahel, Rabbi Dovid Kupchik, led the students in zemirot and singing that lasted for more than half an hour. The excitement of the students and the wide smiles on their faces as they sang was really something special. The scene was beautiful; a school enjoying a Shabbat together as one; all the rebbeim with their families eating together with their precious talmidim. The students got a chance to rest for a bit. Some students played chess while others participated in some good natured hijinks with Rabbi Loiterman. The one and only Rabbi Siff took other students on an optional walking tour of Far Rockaway. Shabbat was winding down but there was still more in store. It was back to the White Shul for mincha and then an unforgettable shalosh seudot. Students were treated to lavish platters of sushi but the most delicious part of the meal was the first rate shiur delivered by Rabbi Feiner. Rabbi Feiner gave his shiur in his trademark energetic and fast-paced style on the topic of amazing creatures

(he even proved the existence of mermaids!). The topic was interesting but what shined through the most was his sheer joy in teaching Torah and his clear love for what he does. The students were absolutely dazzled! Birkat Hamazon and ma’ariv were next and parents were invited to join the boys for an inspirational havdala. The lights dimmed and Rabbi Newcomb delicately strummed a soft niggun on his guitar. Fathers, sons and Rebbeim had arms interlocked as they formed a circle around the flickering light of the havdala candle. Rabbi Hulkower spoke softly and solemnly from the center of the crowd: “Never forget these three words...Shabbos is everything.” A soulful havdala followed and everyone began to dance and sing together. This was a perfect end to an unforgettable Shabbat with HAFTR. Thank you so much Rabbi Hulkower for all the hours of planning working out logistics and thinking of everything. Thank you to all the amazing families in Far Rockaway who generously offered to host our students. Thank you Rabbis Glazer, Kirsch, Kupchik, Loiterman and Siff and to your wonderful wives and families for your help and effort in making the Shabbaton so memorable. Thank you students for making such a kiddush Hashem and being your fun and wonderful selves. Thank you Rabbi Feiner, Rabbi Bender, Rabbi Newcomb, Rabbi Weberman, The White Shul, Sh’or Yoshuv, Sharmel Caterers and Silver Creek Caterers. Thank you Hashem for making every seventh day so special and holy.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Around the Community

Rosh Chodesh at Bnos Malka

nos Malka had a special assembly for Rosh Chodesh Shevat. Students always engage in fun activities connected to the new Chodesh at assemblies, but this time students took the fun to a whole new level. Each student made her very own Shivat Haminim memory game. The girls enjoyed using their artistic flair to personalize their game cards. Then, each student in Grade 3 and 4 was paired with a student in the younger grades and they played their memory game together. Prior to the assembly, the 3rd and 4th grade students were coached in how to make sure their play-partner had a good time, and how to be gracious and solicitous during play. It was truly lovely to see the students having so much fun and putting into practice all of the important skills and middos we discuss each month. Mrs. Rivky Babad, the assistant principal for the lower grades, shepped much nachas watching the younger and older stu-

dents interact. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is an authentic learning opportunity for students to practice achdus and good social skills. These are important parts of our school culture, and this assembly gives students the chance to put into practice many of the life lessons we impart daily to our students. Students can have fun while reviewing their knowledge of the Shivas Haminim, and at the same time practice kindness towards others.â&#x20AC;?

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home

TJH !

You gotta be

Centerfold kidding

Jimbo and Mary Ann saved up for years (their combined WaWa salaries) to take their kids on a fishing trip. They rented all the equipment – the reels, the rods, the wading suits, the rowboat, the car, and even a cabin in the woods. They spared no expense. The first day they go fishing, but they don’t catch anything. The same thing happens on the second and third day. Finally, on the last day of their vacation, Jimbo catches a fish. As they’re driving home, they’re really depressed. Jimbo says to Mary Ann, “Do you realize that this one lousy fish we caught cost us fifteen hundred bucks?” Mary Ann says in astonishment, “Wow! Then it’s a good thing we didn’t catch any more!”

Vacational Speaking What these vacation terms really mean

 

No extra fees = No extras. Period.



Old world charm = Shared bathrooms



Centrally located = Right under a highway overpass (Enjoy the balcony!)



Explore on your own = Pay for it yourself

Knowledgeable trip hosts = They know how to point at a star on a map and say, “You are here”



Tropical = Rainy

Live music = Some lonely local convinced the hotel to let him play bad guitar in the lobby on Tuesday evenings between 7:00 and 8:30



Majestic setting = A long way from town



Options galore = Nothing is included in the itinerary



Secluded hideaway = Impossible to find or get

 

Parking available = We will valet your car for a small fee of $47 a day



Game room on premises = There is an old bacteria-carrying arcade game in a dusty hole in the wall…It will keep your kids entertained for hours

 Pre-registered rooms = Already occupied

Newly renovated rooms = Sure, we have some, but they are all booked. Enjoy your ¼ star rated room!

Family atmosphere = If we are short on towels, be prepared to share



#1 hotel for Nascar fans = “Y’aall sayyid yaall want toofffpaste? Whuut’s thayat?”

Answer to riddle: He drives his car in reverse.

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015

Vacation Trivia

1. How did the Disney park called Epcot get its name? a. It is the Latin word for “universal” b. It is an acronym for “Eat, Play, Create, Observe and Transform” c. It was the name of Walt Disney’s childhood dog d. It is an acronym for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow” 2. How many Smithsonian museums and galleries are there in Washington, D.C.? a. 10 b. 13 c. 17 d. 19 3. Which country attracts the most yearly tourists? a. France b. U.S. c. Italy d. Japan

4. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, which of the following airlines has the worst on-time percentage? a. Delta b. JetBlue c. United d. US Airways 5. Which national park gets the most yearly visitors? a. Great Smoky Mountains b. Grand Canyon National Park c. Yosemite National Park d. Yellowstone National Park 6. Which hotel chain has the largest presence in the U.S.? a. Marriott b. Hilton c. Wyndham d. Starwood 7. Which state has the most ski areas in the U.S.?

Riddle me this?

a. b. c. d. e.

Vermont Utah Colorado Wyoming New York

Answers 1. D 2. C 3. A 4. B- Would you believe it? We all love JetBlue, but in 2015 21.7% of their flights were late; only 13.45% of flights on Delta were late; US Airways was 18.5%; and United was 20.5%. Enjoy the Blue Chips while you wait. 5. A- Great Smoky Mountains Park, located in Tennessee and North Carolina, draws more than nine million visitors a year, twice the number of any other national park. 6. B- Hilton has 3,382 hotels and 506,455 rooms

in the U.S. (Don’t ask me how many bars of disgusting smelling soap that is.) 7. E- New York’s 52 ski areas are the most in the U.S. Wisdom key 6-7 correct: You really know a lot about vacations, you must be Tom Bodett! Thanks for leaving the lights on for me. 3-5 correct: You know a little about vacation. Read the TJH Vacation Guide to brush up. 0-2 correct: You really are off the mark when it comes to vacation. It seems like you must have sustained some vacation trauma along the way. What happened, were you once arrested for stealing shampoo from the chambermaid’s cart or something like that?

The Schwartz family is on vacation and trying to find the hotel that they booked. They stop and ask someone for directions and he says that the hotel is one mile south of their location. This story takes place in New Jersey where it is practically impossible to turn around with all those concrete barriers separating the opposite lanes of traffic. The kids are hungry and tired and want to get to the hotel. Mr. Schwartz tells his kids that he is a magician (because he’s got to entertain them before they reach the breaking point). He says to them, “OK kids, I will point this car north, drive it for one mile, and without turning around we will end up at our hotel.” How does he do it? See answer on opposite page

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Torah Thought

Parshas B’Shalach By Rabbi Berel Wein

here is a great difference in the perception of a momentous historic event, between the generation that actually experienced it, was witness to and perhaps even participated in it, and later generations who know of the event through tradition and history. The facts regarding events can be transmitted from one generation to the next, even for thousands of years, but the emotional quality, the per-

vading actual mood and atmosphere present at the time never survives the passage of time and distance from the event itself. Perhaps nowhere is this truism more strikingly evident than in the drama of the salvation of the Jewish people at the shores of Yam Suf. At the moment of Divine deliverance, Moshe and Miriam and the people of Israel burst into exalted song, registering their relief and triumph

over the destruction of their hated oppressors. This song of triumph is so powerful that it forms part of the daily prayer service of Israel for millennia. But, though the words have survived and been sanctified by all generations of Jews from Moshe till the present, the original fervor, intensity and aura of that moment is no longer present with us. The Pesach Haggadah bids us to relive the Exodus from Egypt as though we actually were present then and experienced it. But it is beyond the ability of later generations do so fully and completely. We can recall and relive the event intellectually and positively in an historic vein but the emotional grandeur of the moment has evaporated over time. We are witness as to how the events of only a century ago – the two great World Wars, the Holocaust, the birth of the State of Israel, etc. – have begun to fade away from the knowledge, memory and recall of millions of Jews today, a scant few generations after these cataclysmic events took place. In this case, it is not only the emotion that has been lost but even the actual facts and their significance – social, religious and national – are in danger of disappearing from the conscious thoughts and behavior of many Jews. In light of this, it is truly phenomenal that the deliverance of Israel at Yam Suf is so distinctly marked and remembered, treasured and revered in the Jewish memory bank. The reason for this exceptional survival of historic memory is that it was made part of Jewish religious ritual, incorporated in the Torah it-

self, and commemorated on a special Shabbat named for the event. It thus did not have to rely on historic truth and memory alone to preserve it for posterity. Religious ritual remains the

Though the words have survived and been sanctified by all generations of Jews from Moshe till the present, the original fervor, intensity and aura of that moment is no longer present with us.

surest way of preserving historical memory, far stronger than May Day parades and twenty-one gun salutes and salvos. Ritual alone may be unable to capture the emotion and atmosphere of the actual event but it is able to communicate the essential facts and import of the event to those who never witnessed or experienced it. The song of Moshe, Miriam and Israel still reverberates in the synagogues of the Jewish people and more importantly in their minds and hearts as well. Shabbat shalom.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Torah Shmuz

Parshas B’Shalach The Reason and the Cause By R’ Ben Tzion Shafier

It happened when Pharaoh sent the people that G-d did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, because it was near, for G-d said, “Perhaps the people will reconsider when they see a war, and they will return to Egypt.” -Shemos 13:17

fter two hundred and ten years of bondage, Hashem led the Jews out of Mitzrayim. By all rights, the first stop should have been Har Sinai where they would receive the Torah and then straight to the land of Israel. Yet that wasn’t what happened. The Da’as Zekeinim explains that Hashem said, “If I take them directly into the land, each man will be busy — this one with his vineyard, this one with his field… They won’t have time to study the Torah. Better, I should lead them into the desert. They will spend forty years eating mon and drinking water from the rock. That way, the Torah will have a chance to settle within them.” This is difficult to un-

derstand. We know that the Jewish people spent forty years in the desert as a punishment for the sin of the spies. The Torah says, “A day for a year, a day for a year” (Bemidbar 14:34). How can the Da’as Zekeinim say that this was Hashem’s plan to help them to become the Torah Nation? We know that it was actually a punishment. The answer to this can best be understood with an example.

LOOKING FOR A SCAPEGOAT

Niron, the general, was sent by Rome to destroy the Temple. He knew that Hashem protects His people, and he was afraid to attack. To determine whether he would be victorious, he used divination. First he shot an arrow toward Jerusalem, and it flew straight. Then he shot arrows in every other direction, and in mid-flight all the arrows turned toward Jerusalem. Next, he stopped a young child and asked, “What did you learn in school today?” The boy quoted the verse, “And I will give the revenge against Edom into the hands of my people.” Niron said to himself, “Hashem wishes to destroy His Temple, and He wants to wipe His hands on me.” Instead of attacking, he ran away and converted. From his lineage came Rebbe Meir

(Gittin 56a). What happened here was that Niron saw the truth. He understood that Hashem wanted the Bais HaMikdash to be destroyed, and He was looking for someone to be the fall guy. That person would be allowed to burn the Temple, which would accomplish G-d’s will, but then he would be punished for the act because he chose to do it.

THE REASON AND THE CAUSE

This seems to be the answer to the Da’as Zekeinim. Hashem wanted the Jews to learn Torah without distraction. For that to occur, they had to live separate and alone — in the desert. And that was a problem. “How can I take my people out of bondage and then leave them to wander in the desert without a home? I promised Avraham that I would take them to a bountiful land.” And so, if it could be, Hashem was looking for an excuse. Once the spies brought their false report and the people accepted it, Hashem had something to justify their not being taken straight to Israel. In reality, there were two layers to the decree — the reason and the cause. The reason Hashem wanted them to spend forty years in the desert was that it was good for them. The cause that made it come

about was a punishment for the sin of the spies.

PART OF THE PLAN – YET YOU ARE ACCOUNTABLE

This concept is critical to understanding many life situations. For instance, imagine a divorced man who remarries and begins a new life. Now with greater maturity, he looks back and recognizes that his first marriage fell

The answer is both. One is the reason; the other is the cause. It was his lack of self-control that caused his marriage to fail, and as such, he is responsible for the results. And at the same time, it was the will of Hashem that it should happen. This is what Hashem felt was best for him and for everyone else involved. While we mortals have very limited sight, we need to broaden our perspective

Niron said to himself, “Hashem wishes to destroy His Temple, and He wants to wipe His hands on me.” Instead of attacking, he ran away and converted.

apart because of his temper. Yet he also sees Divine intervention orchestrating the events that led to the breakup. Things happened in such a coordinated manner — Hashem was right there, controlling it all. So is he responsible for the divorce or was it the will of Hashem? Is he accountable for his children being brought up in a broken home or was that part of Hashem’s plan?

and recognize that while Hashem runs this world, we are still given free will, and we are responsible for the choices we make.

Rabbi Shafier is the founder of the Shmuz.com. The Shmuz is an engaging, motivating shiur that deals with real life issues. All of the Shmuzin are available free of chaarge at the www. theShmuz.com or on the Shmuz app for iPhone or Android.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Between the Lines

Regret without Regrets By Eytan Kobre

Make the most of your regrets; never smother your sorrow, but tend and cherish it till it comes to have a separate and integral interest. To regret deeply is to live afresh. -Henry David Thoreau

eir to the Borden Dairy dynasty, William Whiting Borden graduated from high school in 1904 already a millionaire. Traveling through Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, Borden decided to devote his life’s work to helping those in need rather than furthering his family’s fortune. So he recorded two words in the back of his bible: “No Reserves.” After graduating from Yale University, Borden turned down numerous offers for a high-paying job, including within the Borden Dairy company. And when his father banished him from the family business, he wrote two more words in his bible: “No Retreats.”

When he completed his studies at Princeton Theological Seminary, Borden set sail to help the persecuted peoples of the Far East. Stopping in Egypt for provisions, he was stricken with cerebral meningitis and died within a month at the age of 26. His trusty bible was later recovered and returned to his mother, and beneath the words “No Reserves” and “No Retreats,” there were two more words entered shortly before his passing – “No Regrets.” Borden’s was an admirable attitude, to be sure. Indeed, society makes much of living a life without regrets. But is that really possible? In our own lives, hardly a day passes without some regret. We took the wrong highway to work, we bought or sold some investment too early or too late, we said something we should not have or did not say something we should have, we left an open can of soda near the computer. The list is endless – and those are just the small things. Everyone has regrets. Even G-d is said to have certain “regrets” (Sukkah 52b; Yerushalmi, Ta’anis 3:4; Bereishis 6:6; but see I Shmuel 15:29). But it is what

we regret, and, more to the point, what we choose to do with those regrets, that really matters. Regret is an integral part of life. It is the quintessential element of repentance (Rambam, Teshuva 2:2; Sha’arei Teshuva 1:10), and it can earn forgiveness for past misdeeds (Chagiga 5a). On the other hand, one should never regret past good deeds, as doing so forfeits all reward for them (Kiddushin 40b; Rambam, Teshuva 3:3; Rashi, Yechezkel 3:20). R’ Yitzchak Weiss was a young man when World War II erupted. Like most European Jews at the time, he quickly became aware of the dreadful fate awaiting him; unlike the others, however, he was fortunate to obtain a visa enabling him to escape. So at his first opportunity, he hired a wagon driver to ferry him across the border to safety. His final arrangements made, R’ Yitzchak was on his way out the door when a familiar voice stopped him. It was his mother. At the last moment, the true impact of his departure had set in – she would be all alone. “Will you really leave me alone at a time like this?” R’ Yitzchak simply

couldn’t. He told the wagon driver that he would not be making the journey after all. Instead, he remained in Europe, suffering all the horrors of the Holocaust in Auschwitz – all because he would not leave his mother alone. And whenever R’ Yitzchak told his children and grandchildren of all he endured during the Holocaust, he always emphasized that, despite it all, he never once regretted staying back to be with his mother. But there’s regret and there’s regret. The story is told of two young farmers from different states who invested their savings in two nearly-identical homesteads adjacent to one another, only to discover within weeks that the new land couldn’t sustain any crop growth. Years later, they reflected on their initial investments. One farmer told his family and friends that his investment was the biggest regret of his life. That one mistake, he believed, had made his life hopeless, and he carried his regret through life, working a succession of sorry and meaningless jobs, and living out

his days in misery. The other farmer didn’t regret his purchase. He never grew a single crop on that parcel of land, but he told his family and friends it was still the best investment he’d ever made. He built a large garage from which he operated a highly-profitable secondhand tool warehouse. His business allowed him to support his family in style and even help the less fortunate of his community. He spent his days grateful for his initial investment. You see, with the right outlook, one person’s regret can be another’s blessing. And that’s the difference between the regret of the righteous and the regret of the wicked. The wicked are full of regrets (Shevet Mussar, Chapter 25; Pele Yo’etz, Charata; see also Nedarim 9b), but they fail to grasp the inherent value of regret. They languish in regret yet continue their wayward acts, which plunges them deeper into the never-ending abyss of disappointment and failure (Sichos Haran 10). Paraoh typified this sort of regret. Having suffered through ten devastating plagues, Paraoh and the Egyptians couldn’t get rid

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

of the Jewish people quickly enough (Shemos 12:3033). Paraoh personally escorted them out of Egypt (Tanchuma, Beshalach 1), much to the delight of his people (Tehillim 105:38). But almost immediately, he regretted letting them

from our servitude?” (Shemos 14:5). Before, Paraoh couldn’t wait to get rid of them; now he was desperate to get them back. Like all people, the righteous also have their regrets. But they use regret as a catalyst for growth.

ingful and constructive; it shouldn’t destroy you – it should make you better (Michtav M’ Eliyahu, Vol. 4, pg. 86-87 and Vol. 5, pg. 241, 259). There once was a man who deeply regretted not having learned Torah in his

You see, with the right outlook, one person’s regret can be another’s blessing.

go – as if he had a choice! – howling, “Woe is to me that I let the Jewish people leave” (Shemos Rabba 20:7; Megilla 10a). And “what have we done, that we have let the Jewish people leave

Their regrets don’t stay regrets for very long because they are used as fuel for development and to avoid the next potential regret. Successful people understand that regret should be mean-

youth, as he never had the opportunity to form a connection with G-d (Bamidbar Rabba 4:20). In shul one day, he decided he had had enough of his regrets, and he yelled with all his might,

“Holy, holy, holy is the G-d of the hosts!” This really irked those around him. “What are you doing?” “I’ve always regretted not having learned Torah when I was younger,” the man explained. “So now that I have the opportunity to form an attachment to G-d, should I refrain from doing so?” He had a point. And within a few short years, he was elevated to a position of wealth, power, and status, which he and his descendants enjoyed for years to come. This, because he didn’t allow himself to wallow in a perpetual state of regret. He used his regret as a catalyst for personal growth, so that the next time he had an opportunity

to form a bond with G-d, he made sure to seize it. * * * We all have regrets. But that doesn’t mean we need to live a life of regrets. It’s what we choose to do with regret that truly matters. So, by all means, have regrets. But don’t allow them to control you. Control them. Exploit them. Learn from them. Grow from them. Because it’s not about living a life with no regrets; it’s about living a life with inevitable regrets – and evolving from them.

Eytan Kobre is a writer, speaker, mediator, and attorney living in Kew Gardens Hills. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? E-mail eakobre@ outlook.com.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

The Observant Jew

Pesach in Paradise By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz

t’s winter now. Though it’s January, people are already thinking ahead to the spring time. As we read the parshiyos of Shemos, recounting the plagues and the eventual redemption from Egypt, I can’t help but juxtapose the Torah readings and the myriad ads I see touting the latest Pesach programs. Words like lavish, ultimate, luxury, and gourmet don’t generally come to mind when thinking about matzah and maror, yet for some reason, hotel and Pesach program operators imply that these are linked inextricably and necessary for you to have a good yom tov. You can spend Pesach in your choice of exotic locales. What could be more inspiring than experiencing Pesach as our forefathers did, in the desert?! (I’m guessing their experience wasn’t quite Palm Springs or Scottsdale.) From Florida to Australia, from the Caribbean to Switzerland, for some reason Pesach has become a time for people to indulge themselves in all the physical comfort they can get. I’m waiting to see the ad proclaim, “Don’t Miss the Most Incomparable Supreme Pesach Experience at the newly-remodeled Eight-star Waldorf-Astoria Cairo! Exclusive Chol HaMoed trips to

climb the Pyramids and go Jet Skiing on the Red Sea!” Programs proudly advertise the soft beds, executive chefs, and swimming pools they will have. But what happened to the yom tov? Of course, some places feature divrei Torah, inspiring speakers, and shuls stocked with seforim, but you know that people aren’t going there just to learn. They’re going because Pesach is difficult to make, it’s a chance to get away and, if money is no object, then let someone else clean and cook. After all, it’s the Festival of Freedom! Leave aside the fact that cooking and cleaning for yom tov are mitzvos and can be appreciated. Ignore the reality that Pesach is not about spring cleaning and that much of the intense labor being done is excessive. But what about the fact that the freedom we seek on Pesach is to break the bonds of the physical world and become a spiritual people? I’m not saying you shouldn’t go away for Pesach if you can afford it. But I wonder if you think of the people who not only can’t afford to go away, but can’t even afford to stay home; the people who feel strapped and crushed by the weight of the extra costs involved in buying matzah and Pesach foods. Sure, many of the people who

make these programs also need the money, but I doubt they could not afford a seder if they didn’t. The question is whether while you’re pursuing Pesach on a safari in the savanna you’ve given some thought to helping those you leave behind. I had a friend who was marrying the daughter of a very well-to-do man. Eschewing the gashmius typically associated with the affair, he wanted a very simple wedding. Then his fatherin-law-to-be let him know that whatever he spent on the wedding he was going to send an equivalent amount of money to Israel to help marry off poor couples. Suddenly, my pal was more than happy to up the band and the menu because it was really helping others. The Rambam writes that one cannot experience true simchas yom tov, cannot enjoy the holiday, if he knows of others who have not got the means to celebrate it properly. This is why specifically at Pesach we collect maos chittin, money for wheat. We need to make sure that other people have what they need before we sit down to partake of a twenty fourhour tea room stocked with French pastries and Belgian chocolate. It’s funny. If you look at

the Torah, how was the Korban Pesach eaten in Mitzrayim? They were united as family and neighbor units, combined into individual homes. Why didn’t they make a communal seder in a large ballroom? They ate in their traveling clothes, a far cry from the

as you’re making your Pesach plans, is to ensure that whatever you choose to do, you’ve made sure that your extended family, friends, and neighbors can enjoy yom tov too. Put aside money for tzedaka to make sure others have the basics and then some. That way, no matter where you

The question is whether while you’re pursuing Pesach on a safari in the savanna you’ve given some thought to helping those you leave behind.

multitude of outfits that are so de rigeur for the Pesach social scene. They ate the animal roasted, without fancy reductions or glazes and they ate quickly, not stretching out their meal for hours upon hours. It seems like somehow we’ve lost touch with the meaning of being free, dedicated to Hashem and the Torah. Instead, we’ve become attached to the apron strings of a new generation of physical indenture-ship as we celebrate something we call Pesach. What I’d like to suggest,

end up, you will truly celebrate Pesach in Paradise. Jonathan Gewirtz is an inspirational writer and speaker whose work has appeared in publications around the world. You can find him at www.facebook.com/RabbiGewirtz and follow him on Twitter @RabbiJGewirtz. He also operates JewishSpeechWriter.com, where you can order a custom-made speech for your next special occasion. Sign up for the Migdal Ohr, his weekly PDF Dvar Torah in English. E-mail info@JewishSpeechWriter.com and put Subscribe in the subject.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

A Fulfilled L fe

Level 5 Leadership By Rabbi Naphtali Hoff

his week’s parsha introduces us to the concept of the selfless leader, one who continually serves his people, often at the price of undue flak and heartache. Merely days after bringing his entire people out of Egypt in broad daylight, Moshe’s nation expressed numerous complaints. The first was about their ability to survive Yam Suf and the Egyptian pursuit. They then pined for water and meat, each time making the complaint personal. “The people complained against Moshe” (Shemos 15:24). “The entire community of the children of Israel complained against Moshe and against Aharon in the desert.” (Ibid 16:2) Each time Moshe cried to Hashem for deliverance. Despite his efforts, resistance to Moshe remained firm in the form of Dassan and Aviram. And Moshe said to them, “Let no one leave over [any] of it until morning.” But [some] men did not obey Moshe and left over [some] of it until morning, and it bred worms and became putrid, and Moshe became angry with them. (Shemos 16:19-20) Nor were the people as a whole finished with their complaints. “So the people quarreled with Moshe and said, ‘Give us water that we may drink.’ Moses said to them, ‘Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test the L-rd?’” (Ibid 17:2) Later, during Korach’s rebellion, Dassan and Aviram brought much additional angst to the Jewish leader. Moshe, in turn, became justifiably agitated, particularly because of the selfless way that he had always approached his role. Moshe was exceedingly distressed, and he said to the L-rd, “Do not accept their offering. I have not

taken a donkey from a single one of them, and I have not harmed a single one of them.” (Bamidbar 16:15) I did not take a donkey from any one of them. Even when I went from Midian to Egypt, and I placed my wife and sons on a donkey to ride, and I should have taken that donkey from their property, I took only from my own property (Rashi Ibid, quoting Tanchuma Korach 7, Bamidbar Rabbah 10).

concern about enhancing his personal legacy and reveling in past accomplishments. His words conveyed a deep sense of care about his people’s future. Moreover, Moshe was concerned about each Jew individually. His reference to Hashem as “the G-d of the spirits of all flesh” highlighted His knowledge of human intricacies, a knowledge that Moshe hoped would be bestowed on his successor to en-

What set these Level 5 CEOs apart from so many others in their comparative group was the fact that they were recognized and admired by their coworkers for their noble character. Such selflessness remained his hallmark to the very end, when he pleaded to Hashem about his immediate successor, detailing what true leadership looks like and the essential qualities that comprise such headship. Let the L-rd, the G-d of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation, who may go out before them, and who may go in before them, and who may lead them out, and who may bring them in; that the congregation of the L-rd be not as sheep which have no shepherd. And Hashem said to Moshe, “Take Yehoshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is spirit, and lay your hand upon him.” (Bamidbar 27:16-18) As he neared the end of his leadership term, Moshe expressed no

sure proper, individualized leadership. Moshe’s concern naturally also extended to the collective whole, as expressed by his request that his successor be one “who may go in before them, and who may lead them out, and who may bring them in.” L’havdil, the very best organizational leaders today, the ones who have been successful in elevating their companies to the top of their respective fields, are individuals who prioritize the tried and true qualities of selfless care and consideration. They are humble and willing to admit error, on top of their other core managerial competencies. In From Good to Great (New York, NY, HarperBusiness, 2001) author Jim Collins describes his

personal quest to identify the qualities that make a company singularly successful. He and his research team began the process with a list of nearly 1,500 companies. Through the use of growth-related criteria they narrowed the list down to a group of eleven truly “great” corporations. Additional research revealed that all eleven companies had one particular thing in common: they were all headed by what Collins termed “Level 5 Leaders.” These leaders were all smart, shrewd, skilled and knowledgeable of their respective products and market. They were effective at developing and managing teams within their organization, establishing a vision, setting goals and meeting performance objectives. But so were many of the leaders of the 1,500 other corporations in his study. What set these Level 5 CEOs apart from so many others in their comparative group was the fact that they were recognized and admired by their coworkers for their noble character. Collins’ group of Level 5 leaders were humble and did not pursue success for their personal glory. Some were shy, but remained undaunted when asked to make difficult, even risky, decisions. They were caring of others, while maintaining a burning, passionate drive, a deep desire to advance their respective cause. And because they were so exceptional in their care and concern, others began to mimic their deeds and thinking processes, further advancing the firm’s cause. Rabbi Naphtali Hoff is President of Impactful Coaching & Consulting. He can be reached at 212.470.6139 or at nhoff@ impactfulcoaching.com.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

L’Chaim to the Trees By Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller

appy New Year! No, I’m not locked in a time warp. Tu B’Shvat, the 15th of the Hebrew month Shvat, is the New Year for Fruit of the Trees. And according to the mystic tradition, Tu B’Shvat is a day of great significance. Why?

THE TORAH AND TREES

Let us begin in the Torah itself. The Torah admonishes us not to destroy anything needlessly. Even when besieging an enemy city, fruit trees may not be destroyed. Unlike the terseness that so frequently characterizes the written Torah, a reason is explicitly stated. The Torah tells us that human beings are like the trees of the field (Deut. 20:19).

We think we are searching for the Tree of Life, but we wouldn’t see it if it poked a branch directly at us. Our roots are securely embedded in terra firma. Our first experiences with reality are physical and tangible. Then we grow beyond our roots. We extend our branches toward the heavens as we search for connection and meaning. We devote our lives to the production of fruit. We yearn to leave an enduring mark that we too were here. A tzaddik – a holy person – is compared to an inverted tree. He draws his sustenance from the heav-

ens and gives his fruit to the earth itself, and to anyone who is of the earth. We all wish for lives of substance, but we grow weary. The mystic scholars ask: How does the tzaddik draw his strength? The answer (given in the classic Meor VaShemesh) is that he draws his strength from the Tree of Life itself. What is the Tree of Life?

THE TREE OF LIFE

The answer lies in the Garden of Eden, where there were two trees – the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil and the Tree of Life. When Adam and Eve were banished from Paradise, angels armed with fiery swords prevented them from returning to the Tree of Life (Genesis 2:9 and 3:22-24). The literal meaning of Eden is the Garden of Refinement. There, the inherent link between G-d and His creation was apparent. There was no shell of coarseness – no human superficiality or human arrogance to conceal Him. All of nature revealed its source. The Tree of Life was in the center of the garden. It gave us the spiritual nurture that made us not only human, but also enabled us to be holy. It had the power to do so because it was the mystic embodiment of the Torah before that holy book was put into words. We no longer live in a world characterized by refinement. Instead of being nurtured by the Tree of Life, we are all too conscious of the taste left by the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. That other tree offered us the desire for evil that is as vivid as our desire for good. Tu B’Shvat is the day we learn

once more how to cultivate ourselves. How do we tap into the power of the day?

THE SAP IS RISING

Let us look at the structure of the day in Jewish consciousness. First, this is the traditional day that G-d instructed Moses to begin the process of explaining the Torah very well (Deut. 27:8). What aspect of Moses’ explanation does this refer to? Rashi teaches that the words very well mean that Moses explained the Torah in 70 languages. The depth of this teaching is that it is possible to find the truth of Torah from any possible way of looking at life (which is of course the source of language), as long as we remain honest. Yet our emotional agendas sometimes fool us. We think we are searching for the Tree of Life, but we wouldn’t see it if it poked a branch directly at us. We are too busy looking at everything else. We are, after all, only human. We have already partaken of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, and find it almost impossible at times to tell the two trees apart. It is for this reason that the Sages of the Talmud tell us that on this day, we should pray for a good esrog – one of the four species that are taken and blessed on Sukkot. Yet Sukkot has already faded into the past. Why are we thinking of an esrog? The simple reason is that at this season the sap is rising, and the tree is beginning the process of eventually giving fruit. This is true of all trees. So why is Tu B’Shvat special to the esrog? Because of its shape, the Esrog represents the symbol of the heart. This is the day we can pray for purity

of the heart. We are fragile and fail. But the power of prayer can move us it its source – to infinity, to G-d. It can give us access to the Tree of Life.

PURITY OF HEART

A rule that your grandmother may have told you (as mine did) is when you ask for something, be sure that you want it. And if you really want something, what are you doing about it? On Tu B’Shvat we ask: Do we really want purity of the heart? We demonstrate our sincerity for a pure heart and our search for the Tree of Life by not corrupting our physical experience. One way to do this is to change our attitude to food, since eating is the most primal of our physical desires. We consume an enormous amount a food in the course of a lifetime. It is part of G-d’s plan to let us come into contact with His kindness and generosity, and what we eat and the way that we relate to eating impacts the way we experience life. G-d is either in the picture or out of it. On Tu B’Shvat, we redefine how we regard the world by committing to sanctify our eating. We try to eat less impulsively and more with higher awareness. This striving is articulated in many communities by sitting down together and having a Tu B’Shvat Seder. At such a seder, fruit is eaten. (Some have the custom of tasting 15 different types, since this on the 15th of Shvat.) While savoring the fruits, try to envision their root, the source of all life. Let yourself savor the spiritual essence of the Land of Israel, by eating its produce. Most of all, have a Happy New Year!

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Managing Tragedy Through Connection By Rabbi Naphtali Hoff

his past Shabbos was a most unusual one for me, my family and my entire community of Passaic, NJ. On Friday morning we had been notified that a young woman from our community, Devorah Stubin, had been missing since the previous evening. No information was given at that time in terms of how we could be helpful, other than some basics about her disappearance and to offer tefillos on her behalf. Then, on Shabbos morning, the early minyan that I attended was interrupted by requests for volunteers. We were asked to drive out to the nearby town of Maywood to join in a search for Devorah. Tens of people responded, including me and my son. People from other shuls were similarly recruited. Upon arriving to central command, we were given the first of what would be multiple nearby areas to walk by foot, looking for any signs that would give us a clue as to Devorah’s whereabouts. This process was repeated for hours, as tens of additional people (if not more) from Passaic, neighboring Clifton, and throughout the area (including Monsey, Bergen County, and Brooklyn) – people of all stripes and shul affiliations – joined in the search. Leading the effort was a team of exceptional volunteers from Hatzoloh, Chaveirim, et al, who forewent food, sleep and any semblance of a regular Shab-

bos in order to help. One of them did so despite the fact that he will be making a chasuna for a child in just a few days be”H. He sacrificed his ability to spend a special Shabbos with family and friends in order to help in this vital cause. Unfortunately, the herculean effort of so many failed to achieve the desired result. We would not be able to bring Devorah, a”h, back. In fact, her fate had already been sealed two days earlier when she had lost control of her vehicle and tumbled into a nearby river. We were at least able to bring closure to a most tragic episode, in terms of identifying Devorah’s fate and whereabouts. I had never spent a Shabbos like that and hope that I will never have reason to again. It felt quite strange to voluntarily leave shul and get into my car at 8:30 in a Shabbos morning. I had never driven before on Shabbos, even when my oldest child was born on that day. There was no Shabbos feel as I made my way through unfamiliar terrain with the help of my GPS, nor did it feel comfortable or proper for me to use my phone as I communicated throughout the process or carry paper and a pen outside of an eruv in order to notate findings, text in pictures of surveillance cameras and ask nearby residents for information. But in this situation, feelings of normalcy, comfort or

routine were irrelevant. The only thing that mattered was Devorah’s safe return. Prior to this incident, I had never met Devorah. I first learned of her existence with the arrival of that alarming email. But that fact mattered neither to me nor to the scores of others who also shared no personal connection with her. What mattered to everyone that assembled on a wet, cold Shabbos morning was that someone in klal Yisrael, and specifically in our community, needed our help. We all committed on a moment’s notice to do everything humanly possible to provide it. We say in bentching every Shabbos that the day is ma’ain olam haba, a resemblance of the Next World. While there are many explanations for this comparison, I would like to suggest one that connects to our surreal Shabbos experience. In olam haba there is no physical reality or physical pleasure. It is not necessary or useful, as the entire experience is about reconnecting with our Maker and enjoying a special spiritual proximity with Him. While this may not be true about every Shabbos, this past one reinforced for me the importance of forgoing our fleeting pleasures and comfortable surroundings as needed in order to fulfill our true mission of connecting with Hashem and the creations that He loves so deeply. In the command center,

evidence that it was Shabbos could be found only if you really looked around. A few rolls over here, some grape juice over there. But there, amongst all of the hustle and anxiousness to get out to the road and find Devorah, one could sense a deep feeling of community, local and beyond, coming together in a complete act of mesiras nefesh, to find and care for one of their own. Passaic/Clifton, while not geographically large, is a “big” community, ba”h, in terms of the number of families, shuls, schools and the like that call it home. While it is in many ways tight-knit, it is also easy to live in this town and not know people who live close by, let alone on the other side of town. I am sure that similar dynamics exist in many communities throughout the greater NYC area and beyond. But on this Shabbos everyone from around town really came together. While we quickly fanned out with partners to scale our designated areas, our few minutes of together time waiting for instructions in the converted warehouse-turned-command center gave us all a deep, unifying sense of connection and belonging. And from the little that I know about Devorah, a”h, I would say that what I have heard about her friendliness, good cheer and general concern for others (she had been out to pick up a sibling the

evening that she went missing) were definitely a unifying force and an unspoken source of inspiration for all of us throughout the experience, as was the fact that her family gives constantly and without fanfare to their shul and community. Lest you take my word for it, this sense of unity and cohesion was sensed deeply by the media and others involved as well. Numerous reports depicted with great admiration the many “Orthodox Jews” from her “tightknit” community coming together to help. It was, without question, an incredible kiddush Hashem. Imagine how much greater the kiddush Hashem is and will continue to become if Devorah’s tragic saga continues to bring us together and selflessly support one another. May we all find comfort in the beautiful life that Devorah, a”h, lived and in the love and self-sacrifice that our greater community demonstrated at a time of great need. And may this sense of communal bonding inspire us to find additional ways to support and connect with one another so as to be a source of continued merit for Devorah, a”h, and source of nechama for her devoted, loving family. Rabbi Naphtali Hoff, a Passaic resident, is President of Impactful Coaching & Consulting. He can be reached at 212.470.6139 or at nhoff@impactfulcoaching. com.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

ubshsh ka u,rhyp vrn ubt ohfcn cr ctfc

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ubsxun ka ukkujnu usxhhn u,jhrpu uduadak apbu ckc ruxn ohhcrvu sxunv ka o,cuyk shn, dts gdrk ubnn u,gs jhxv tku The YKLI family mourns the untimely passing of our dear Founder and President of the Board,

Mr. Roberto “Robi” Flegmann

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He let no obstacle stand in his way to ensure the smooth running of our Yeshiva and the needs of our Rebbeim and faculty were his utmost concern May the thousands upon thousands of hours of the past Limud Torah of the Tinokos Shel Bais Raban and all the future learning be a zechus for his neshama and a zechus for the entire mishapacha

ohkaurhu iuhm hkct rta lu,c of,t ojbh ouenv May the family be comforted amongst the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim

The YKLI Family Rabbi Zvi Bajnon, rosh yeshiva Rabbi Tzvi Krigsman, menahel Rabbi Shlomo Dovid Pfeiffer, sgan menahel Rabbi Ari Ginian, executive director

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Halachically

Speaking

Competing for Business by Rabbi Moishe Dovid Lebovits

n the larger Jewish enclaves, each neighborhood has many pizza and food stores, as well as many shuls and yeshivos. Are there any restrictions to opening stores, shuls and yeshivos in the same area? Does it make a difference if many similar stores are all located in one area, such as a garment district? What are the restrictions regarding opening up stores in the same neighborhood if the customer base is not large? In this article we will discuss the topic of opening stores next to each other. Please note that these halachos are very intricate; we will present an overview of the halachos, but if one has a question he should present it to his rav.

MORAL ISSUES

Aside from the halachic aspect of this topic, there are moral reasons why someone should think carefully before opening a competing store in an area where he might cause someone a loss of money. The Gemara counts eleven principles that Dovid Hamelech outlined. One of them is that one should not enter the profession of his friend and compete with him. The Gemara also says that one who makes someone else lose his livelihood is like a murderer. The Rambam says that the business dealings of a talmid

chacham are to be straight and he must be a man of his word. He addresses the issue of not entering the profession of one’s friend. We believe that the money we are going to make each year is decreed on Rosh Hashanah. Therefore, if a competitor opens a store, one should feel secure that he will earn enough money.

HASAGAS GEVUL

Opening a store next to someone else is called “hasagas gevul.” This is borrowed from the Torah’s term of hasagas gevul, which refers to encroaching on someone else’s property (according to many in Eretz Yisrael). The Gemara discusses competing stores, specifically opening a mill in the same mavuy (neighborhood). Rav Huna says that the first person can argue, “You are stopping my livelihood.” Rav Huna Brei D’Rav Yehoshua maintains that the second person can argue, “Whoever will come to me will come to me, and whoever will go to you will be your customer.” The poskim maintain that we rule like Rav Huna Brei D’Rav Yehoshua since he is the latter opinion and it is in accordance with the view of the majority. However, this is not a blanket heter as will be discussed below.

SAME NEIGHBORHOOD / CITY

The above discussion is only true if the second person is from this city,1 but if he lives in another city2 he is not allowed. However, if he pays local taxes then there is no issue. The Gemara does not discuss whether there are any limits even if he pays taxes to the local municipality. Furthermore, the Gemara discusses a situation where they are from the same city but a different neighborhood, and it ends off without giving an answer. We are stringent in that case. Therefore, one who lives in a different city but pays taxes cannot open in the same area, but can open in the same city.

FISH NETS

The Gemara rules that once someone spreads fish nets in the sea, nobody else may place a net within a parsah (the distance to walk seventy-two minutes). Rashi explains that the fish that would have entered the first net will now enter the second net. In this case, the first person is definitely losing out. The Nemukei Yosef says that sometimes it will go from one trap to the other. There are poskim who do not mention this halacha. The Rif and Rambam do not mention this either. However, it is brought in poskim. A modern example of this would

be someone who is trained by his employer and uses his training to open a competing business. He has all the clients that he dealt with at his first employer and will very likely put his employer out of business. This should not be done.

A DEAD END

The Mordechai says that if a store is located at the back of a dead-end alley, then one may not set up a store in the beginning of that area, since people will go exclusively to this store. Others say that this is only if you hold like Rav Huna, but we hold like Rav Huna Brei D’Rav Yehoshua, so this case would be permitted. Nevertheless, even though we are lenient in general in most cases, in this case we hold like the Mordechai. The reasoning is that when there is a guaranteed loss of money, we follow the ruling of Rav Huna. If the first store is located on a regular street, then it is permitted to open two stores since in this case the new store will not make the original store go out of business.

ELIMINATING SOMEONE ELSE’S PARNASSA

From the above, it is clear that one may not start a business near another such store if it will definitely destroy the other person’s business. This is even according to the lenient

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

opinion of Rav Huna Brei D’Rav Yehoshua. If it will just decrease the first store’s profits, it is allowed. Loss of livelihood is not defined by a loss of one’s home or the ability to put food on the table. It means interfering with his ability to afford as much as an average person in his times. There is a possibility that if there is room for both stores to survive but one is not run well, then it would be permitted to have both stores in the same area.

PURSUING SOMEONE ELSE’S CUSTOMERS

One is not allowed to actively pursue another person’s customers. This is comparable to the fish nets. However, advertising your business is permitted, even if customers will leave the first store. Additionally, one may give out candies and other incentives to attract customers, since the competition can do so as well. A common example can be found

in Eretz Yisrael, where many people do not have cars and taxi cabs line up at bus stops and offer their services, thus causing the bus company to lose a customer. On the other hand, it can be argued that the taxi is offering a higher quality service, free of noise, disturbances, and frequent stops. In addition, many times the buses are not on time or there are no seats when it arrives. This issue is not a simple matter and one should ask his rav. If one is giving rides just for chessed purposes and not for livelihood then it may not be allowed. Others are lenient in this regard.

NON-JEW

There is a discussion in the poskim if the halacha whether the restriction applies is applicable when the first store is owned by a non-Jew. One should be stringent in this regard.

CHEAPER PRICES

People should not have to overpay

for an item. Therefore, one may open a second store if he is going to charge less for an item. In addition, if the quality of the second store is preferable then he may open. This would be true even if a second storeowner were from a different city. This is common in certain areas where people are learning in kollel and a store opens to provide them with cheaper prices than the surrounding supermarkets. If the first store was offering a competitive price, and he cannot go lower and still make a profit, the new competitor may not open. Lowering prices for a short period of time, like a grand opening sale, is not considered unfair pricing.

DIFFERENT PRODUCTS

The entire discussion of opening a competing store next to an existing store is if the two stores will be selling the same items. If the second store will be selling many other items which are not sold in the first store he may open. This is even if he lives in a

different city. A second food store that offers a higher standard in kashrus may be opened even if the first one cannot survive.

BUSINESS DISTRICTS

Manhattan is famous for its different business districts, such as garments and diamonds. Every store in that district sells the same thing. It is permitted to open a new store in the district (even if they are all Jews) since this is the address for this item. This helps business since customers come from all over to these places. This can be true for streets which thousands of people pass daily (such as Avenue M and Avenue J in Brooklyn as well as Central Avenue in Long Island, and Cedar Lane in Teaneck, New Jersey, and other such locations) and have multiple pizza stores and bakeries (in many cases even on the same block). The rationale for this is that since people come from all over to shop at these stores, it is known to

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

be the place to buy all kinds of items and competition between opening other stores does not apply. In addition, these stores are for the most part located in areas where there are so many people passing that there is enough business for everyone, as opposed to small communities which may not have enough people to support multiple pizza stores, bakeries, etc. These restrictions do not apply to opening a competing website, since the marketplace is so large on

other shul within close proximity of another shul. Their complaints were that the first shul has a different nusach and they do not like the rav’s ways. He rules that if the neighborhood cannot afford two shuls, and the rav of the first shul will lose his livelihood, then it is forbidden, even if the complaints are valid. In many communities there are numerous shuls and there is no loss of livelihood for any of the other shuls. In addition, the more shuls in a large community the better it is, since it

If a competitor opens a store, one should feel secure that he will earn enough money.

the web that it is not likely the second website will put the first website out of business. Wholesale and mail order businesses, or any business which does not serve the local population exclusively but attracts customers from afar, may compete anywhere. In addition, someone from a different city may advertise his business in a local paper even if there is already the same store in the city where the paper is sold or given out if it is a cheaper price or offers delivery, etc. which is not done by the original store in the area. This also applies to insurance agents since they are not based in neighborhoods.

YESHIVOS

Even according to the stringent opinion, it is permitted to open a yeshiva close to another one. We apply the rule “kinas sofrim tarbeh chachmah,” and each yeshiva will work harder with their students due to the competition. This is true even if the first yeshiva has to go out of business.

NEW SHUL

Harav Moshe Feinstein zt”l was asked whether it is permitted for people to break off and open an-

is appealing for people who wish to move into a specific area. The same is true for a community kollel which wishes to build next to an existing shul. Harav Ephraim Greenblatt zt”l holds that is prohibited for the kollel to invite congregants from the shul to come and daven in the kollel. In many places this can lead to the eventual closing of the established shul. It is preferable for the kollel people to daven in the shul and have a positive influence on the congregants. Harav Schachter shlit”a also maintains that it is preferable that the yungeleit daven in the established shul. If the people feel that the pace of the davening is too quick in the shul, then it would be appropriate to start another minyan where the davening is at a slower pace. This second minyan, however, should be located in and be part of the same shul, cautions Harav Schachter shlit”a.

KASHRUS

When there is a local Va’ad Hakashrus in a town, another person cannot open up a different Va’ad if it will put the first one out of business. Many times there are a few local rabbanim who work in a community and certify manufactur-

ing companies, and there is a lot of room for all to make a living. If a neighborhood has a sefarim store, a second store may only be opened if the neighborhood can support two sefarim stores. In many communities there are numerous sefarim stores and all can make a nice living, but it is obviously dependent on the size of the community.

PLAYGROUP

yom Tov expenses. This is permitted even if the one giving out the food, etc. does not live in the city and it may cause a bit of loss of revenue to the local stores. The intent is not to cause the store’s loss, only to give presents to the locals who can’t afford the costs in the store. In addition, this is not considered opening a store within a community that already has a store.

It is common for a community to have many playgroups and one may open an additional one near an already established one. Each playgroup has different qualities to offer and it is not considered an issue of opening a competing one in the community. In any case, one should consult with his rav before opening a competing playgroup.

WINDOW SHOPPING

DOCTOR

PIOUS

One can walk into any community and see hundreds of doctors’ offices. One is allowed to open a practice next to an already existing one. Each doctor has what to offer patients and it is not included in the issue of opening a store next to another. In any case, one should consult with his rav before opening a competing doctor’s office.

ONE-STOP-SHOP SUPERMARKETS

It is very common to have a onestop-shop supermarket where there is fish, bakery, take-out and other services. Many times other smaller stores will go out of business if these one-stop shops open since they can’t compete with the service, etc. However, since the supermarkets sell other items which the local deli, etc. does not sell, such as groceries and other items, it will not be considered the same kind of store. In that case there is no issue with the one-stopshop supermarket selling his deli items. One should consult with his rav if this situation arises.

YOM TOV FOOD DISTRIBUTION

Before yom tov, it is very common for chessed organizations to give out a lot of meat, potatoes, and other food and non-food items to make it easier to get through the

It is very common for one to go window shopping in a store. As long as one went in with the intention to buy something, a different store owner who sells the same items can ask the potential customer to come to his store instead. The one who is window shopping is not considered the customer of the store yet.

Even in cases where it is permitted to open a competing store, the Shulchan Aruch Harav rules that it is a pious act not to do so. However, if both stores can survive, then there are no reservations. 1 It is questionable as to what is considered the same city even in New York, such as Flatbush to Boro Park and Brooklyn to Queens (Harav Yisroel Belsky shlit”a). It is very common to open a branch of a store which originated in one’s own city when a family member who lives in a different city wishes to branch out and open and run the same store in another city. This is common when a married child lives in Lakewood, etc. and wishes to open a store in Lakewood, although the owner (his parents) have the original store in New York. If there is a partnership where the local person has a certain percentage it is permitted (refer to Nachlas Shivah 2:2, Pischei Teshuvah C.M. 156:4, Vaya’an Dovid C.M. 5:86, Mishnas Yehoshua 11). 2 Such as when one comes from New Jersey to New York each day to work (Harav Yisroel Belsky shlit”a).

Rabbi Moishe Dovid Lebovits is a former chaver kollel of Yeshiva Torah Vodaath and a musmach of Harav Yisroel Belsky shlita. Rabbi Lebovits currently works as the Rabbinical Administrator for the KOF-K Kosher Supervision.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Israel Today

Bore Mall

he area around Ben Gurion University looked as good a place as any to invest our money. That’s why we were traipsing around Be’er Sheva on a sunny, early November morning following one realtor after another. Like the children running after the Pied Piper we were promised to be led to the Golden Medina. After two hours we weren’t too sure. The first was very young and so indifferent it was reflected both in his enthusiasm and the properties he showed us: they were dumps in rundown neighborhoods. He was in such a rush to meet his friend that showing us apartments seemed like an afterthought. “Look at the potential in this place. You could turn it into a palace,” he flippantly told us more than once. It took over a generation to turn the desert into an oasis, but a hovel in a drug infested street? Not in our lifetime – or on our hard earned shekels. The second realtor was pleasant, not at all overbearing, and showed us a beautiful apartment that caught our eye. An ex-police officer who had taken an early pension, he towered over me, was slim, obviously a gym rat, had a full head of hair, and to make me feel worse, he was my age. Keeping up with him was like a child trying to keep pace with a parent in a rush. Then there was Dudu who showed us a stunning place. On the way out the door he wanted to know if we’d be closing that day and how much

we wanted to put down as a deposit. When I asked him why the hurry, he begged us not to miss such an opportunity. An opportunity for what, I was thinking, to make him happy? Tired and hungry we made our way to Israel’s largest shopping mall, the Grand Canyon. Despite being the middle of the day, the parking garage was mostly empty. We had the choice of hundreds of parking spots. The lot gave off a strange, new smell. The car tires screeched as we meandered from row to row. As we were taking the elevator up from the basement Keren asked me to close my eyes. “Let’s play a game,” she said. Not one to refuse my wife, especially when she wants to play childish games, I closed my eyes, held onto her bag and followed her upstairs. We walked for ages until she finally stopped and said, “Okay, when I say so, open your eyes and tell me where we are.” “I know where we are! We’re in the Grand Canyon Mall in Be’er Sheva.” “I know that, Rafi. Just use your imagination and tell me what you think, okay. Now, open your eyes!” I looked around me. Keren put her finger to her lips indicating I should take it all in. It took a while but I came to understand her game. “For all I know we could be in Roosevelt Field Mall in Long Island.” “What else?” she asked. “The shop names are the same but...” “Yes?” “The place is empty.” In April the Haaretz newspaper

reported the Be’er Sheva mall had seen a 50% plunge in business. Many of the retailers have been waiting for an increase in sales and have lost fortunes doing so. Be’er Sheva is expanding, but not as quickly as hoped. H&M, Forever 21, Castro, Fox: they are all there like they are in any mall I’ve ever been in. We walked towards Gregs Cafe at the end of the hall. As far as I could tell all the store clerks we passed were busying themselves with their cellphones. I thought such ennui only existed in dentists’ waiting rooms. On the way to what appeared our distant destination—our caffeinated oasis in the desert—we were locked out of two bathrooms. I was too distracted to enjoy the coffee and croissants: observing the world even when it’s empty intrigues me. Keren twice scolded me for repetition: “What in the world were they thinking?” I repeated like a rebbe teaching the Aleph Bet to his first grade class. The Malcha mall in Jerusalem is cramped, narrow, but constantly busy. The Grand Canyon Mall in Newe Sha’anan in Haifa looks like a lonely island surrounded by an interchange on the I-95. In Ma’alot, where we live, the Zim center is busy but mainly at its entrances where the eateries are located. The mall in the desert, however, the mall to end all Israeli malls, to end all arguments about grandeur and grandiosity, would look more at home on Queens Boulevard or in a city with another

250,000 residents than where it currently sits. Walking the long, empty corridors felt like a burden. They appeared never ending. We were soon tired. How much can the ubiquitous corporate world attract a buyer without the constant murmur of customer buzz? Ah, where have all the mom and pop stores of yesteryear gone? Why can I no longer walk to the corner store where old Mr. Falks would sell me a two dime bag of candy and washing detergent for my mother? Why are the only remnants of my youth apparent in barber and shoe repair stores? Why do I even yearn for things that are out of my reach? All except thirty minutes of the two and three quarter hour drive home was on straight and well planned highways. On the way we’d passed a couple of strip malls and plenty of gas stations. From verdant Galil to the desert and back we’d been gone almost seven hours for 3 coffees, 4 croissants and a different kind of outing that left me with more questions than answers. Although we hadn’t dismissed the notion of buying elsewhere, we decided to return to Be’er Sheva week later and look at more apartments. Apartment hunting: full of potential. Shopping experience: could have been anywhere.

Rafi Sackville, formerly of Cedarhurst, teaches in Ort Maalot in Western Galil.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home

New York, New York!

Start spreading the news! New York is tons of fun—even in the cold winter months. Here are some great ideas of activities and trips to take this midwinter vacation. Don’t let a few below-zero temperatures keep you from venturing outside. Bundle up—we’re fierce New Yorkers after all—and enjoy all that New York has to offer.

Indoor Fun Parks Legoland Discovery Center Westchester 39 Fitzgerald Street Yonkers, NY 10701 866-243-0779 Fun Fuzion at New Roc City 19 LeCount Place New Rochelle, NY 10801 914-637-7575 Fun Station USA 40 Rocklyn Avenue Lynbrook, NY 11563 516-599-7757 Funzone 229 Route 110 Farmingdale, NY 11735 631-847-0100

Bounce U of Oceanside 3495B Lawson Blvd Oceanside, NY 11572 516-593-5867

Chelsea Piers Hudson River—Piers 59-62 New York, NY 212-336-6800

Ceramix at the OWL 591 Malvin Mall Cedarhurst, NY 11516 516-374-5707

Bounce U of Brooklyn 6722 Fort Hamilton Parkway 2nd Floor Entrance on 67 Street & 9th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11219 347-450-5867

Woodmere Lanes 948 Broadway Woodmere, NY 11598 516-374-9870

Artrageous Studio 5 N Village Ave Rockville Centre, NY 11570 516-255-5255

Gil Hodges Lanes 6161 Strickland Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11234 718-763-3333

Once Upon a Dish 659 Franklin Ave Garden City, NY 11530 516-742-6030

Brooklyn Boulders 575 Degraw Street Brooklyn, NY 11217 347-834-9066 New York Skyride Empire State Building, 350 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10118 212-279-9777

Something Different Puppetworks 338 Sixth Avenue at 4th Street Park Slope, NY 11215 718-965-3391

Klub4Kidz 159 North 4th Street Brooklyn, NY 11211 718-599-5900 Taro’s Origami Studio 95 Seventh Avenue, 2nd Floor (between Union St. & President St.) Brooklyn, NY 11215 718-360-5435

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015

Museums Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum Pier 86, 12th Avenue and 46th Street 212-245-0072 9/11 Memorial and Museum 200 Liberty Street New York, NY 10006 212-266-5211 Sony Wonder Technology 550 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10022 212-833-8100 New York Hall of Science 47-01 111th Street Corona, NY 11368 718-699-0005 Jewish Museum 1109 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10128 212-423-3200 Long Island Children’s Museum 11 Davis Avenue Garden City, NY 11530 516-224-5800

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Brooklyn Children’s Museum 145 Brooklyn Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11213 718-735-4400

The Franklin Institute 222 North 20th Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 215-448-1200

Lefrak Center at Prospect Park 171 East Drive Brooklyn, NY 11225 718-462-0010

Jewish Children’s Museum 792 Eastern Parkway Brooklyn, NY 11213 718-467-0600

Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic (formerly North Concourse Drive) Philadelphia, PA 19131 215-581-3181

City Ice Pavilion 47-32 32nd Place Long Island City, NY 11101 718-706-6667

Children’s Museum of Manhattan 212 W 83rd St New York, NY 10024 212-721-1234 American Museum of Natural History Central Park West at 79th Street New York, NY 10024 212-769-5100 Liberty Science Center Liberty State Park 222 Jersey City Boulevard Jersey City, NJ 07305 201-200-1000 Crayola Factory 30 Centre Square Easton, PA 18042 1-866-875-5263

Imagine That! Children’s Museum 4 Vreeland Road Florham Park, NJ 07932 973-966-8000

Ice Skating Long Beach Ice Arena 150 W. Bay Drive Long Beach, NY 11561 516-705-7385 Ice Skating at Grant Park Broadway and Sheridan Avenue Hewlett, NY 11557 516-571-7821 Aviator Ice Rinks 3159 Flatbush Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11234 718-758-7500

Wollman Rink in Central Park 830 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10065 212-439-6900 The Rink at Rockefeller Center 600 5th Avenue New York, NY 10020 212-332-7654 The Rink at Bryant Park Bet. 40th and 42nd streets & 5th, New York, NY 10018 212-661-6640 Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers Pier 61 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10011 212-336-6100 TJH is not responsible for the kashrus or atmosphere of any establishment listed. Please call before you go to ensure an optimal experience. Enjoy!

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home

Fun for the Day By Susan Schwamm

Time off from school gives us time to spend with our family and friends and time to explore the magical city of New York. There is so much to do here to keep us occupied for days on end. Don’t let the cold deter you – bundle up, catch a train or grab your keys, and head out for a day of fun!

EXPLORE THE CITY. Sometimes it’s the little things that make the best trips. Going on the LIRR is a real treat for kids. Take the railroad to Penn Station, hop on a train to Times Square, and prepare to be overwhelmed! There is so much to see in Times Square, but with kids along, it’s best to an enclosed place that’s really fun! Consider the Disney store or M&M’s World, where they can marvel at a 17-foot-tall Miss Green M&M’s Statue of Liberty and be surrounded by chocolatey goodness. Make sure to treat the kids to some pizza for lunch – there’s nothing like a hot slice of this delicious cuisine made right in the Big Apple.

TOP OF THE ROCK. The Rockefeller Center area is a great place to stroll around with the family. Take a trip to the “Top of the Rock” to view the city. Spend time looking at the ice skaters spinning around the famous rink. Your little ones will love a trip to the Build a Bear Workshop or American Girl Place, and your teens will enjoy spending time at stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, the Apple Store and United Colors of Benetton. Café K and Wolf & Lamb is located right there if you want to top off your day with lunch or dinner.

TAKE THE KIDS FOR A SPIN. I may not be the best bowler, but it’s always fun to try to score a few strikes and spares. It’s a great game for all ages – the younger ones get to use the bumper lanes, and the older ones get to be more serious about their game. For even more fun, give each kid a few dollars for the arcades – that’ll add a little more excitement to the day!

CLIMB THE WALLS. If you’re looking for a fun way to let out some energy with your kids, consider Brooklyn Boulders for your crew. Bouldering, rope climbing, and lead climbing are available, and your intrepid youngsters will love the change of pace. It’s only for children ages five and up—make sure to call before you go to ensure that classes are available. (575 Degraw Street, Brooklyn, NY. Tel. (347) 834-9066)

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015

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CENTRAL PARK FUN. Central Park is almost a city of its own. In the winter, depending on the weather, the park is still a great place to spend time with the family. My husband and I once took the kids there one Sunday – just to let them run around one of the playgrounds there. My son and daughter thought it was the best trip ever! Ice skating here is majestic as the tall Manhattan buildings surround you from way up high. And if the weather is nice, explore the zoo or bring a football and have the kids run around the grass. The vastness of the Park is exhilarating!

THE CUTTING EDGE. With temperatures like we have now, ice skating is a perfect activity. Layer on the sweatshirts and leggings, and bring out the gloves and hats. This trip is great for all ages – the young ones love trying out their new skates and the older ones can’t wait to show off their triple axles and toe loops. Hey, for even more fun, search for different figure skating moves on the web before starting your trip – you’ll be surprised how many there are out there and it will provide for fun conversation in the car.

BRIDGING THE PAST TO THE FUTURE. One Sunday my father decided that my family needed a living history lesson on the Jews of the Lower East Side. So we piled into the car and spent the day walking around the Lower East Side and Canal Street. A trip here may require a little preparation, but children will love what the area has to offer. Sadly, the restaurants down there are no longer open, but can catch a mincha in a shul with much history. Just a few blocks away, at Canal Street, the streets are bustling with street vendors hawking “real” Chanel purses and Hello Kitty pencils. There are many fruit stores here that sell delicious fruit – some of which are not sold in the stores around here – so maybe you can enjoy a banana for lunch. For a real experience, try a durian which is called the “king of fruits” in Southeast Asia. Its taste is cloyingly sweet although its smell is considered by some to be so noxious that it has been banned in trains in some Asian countries.

SLEEPOVER SPA. School nights are not always the best nights for sleepovers, but now that vacation is here, invite over some friends, plan some games and order in takeout. Board games, a treasure hunt, a “day at the spa,” relay races are all fun activities. Raid the candy cabinet and pop some popcorn – it’s going to be a long night!

HOME FOR THE DAY. After quite a few hours in the car, perhaps a day at home is tempting. Vacations are a wonderful time to learn a new craft or perfect a recipe that you’ve always wanted to try. Check out Michael’s or Target for craft projects – needlepoint, painting, scrapbooking, DIY – that can keep the kids busy. Inviting them along to the store will whet their appetite for what’s to come ahead. Your daughter (or son) may love looking through cookbooks and trying out new recipes. Spend some time deciding on a menu and then enjoy time together in the kitchen as you put together a four-course meal for dinner – or even lunch!

TJH takes no responsibility for the accuracy, kashrus, or details of the information provided. Please make sure to call before heading out to ensure a truly wonderful time!

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Warm Up Your Winter By Esther Ottensoser

Few things are more enjoyable on a cold winter day than snuggling up to a steaming hot cup of cocoa. To “sweeten” the savory taste even more, here are two ideas that will make that cherished moment not only delicious, but also memorable too.

Chocolate Spoons Yums, oohs, and ahhs will be aplenty as your family will enjoy hot cocoa at a new level with these delectable chocolate spoons. Swirl them in your hot cocoa or coffee and watch the melted chocolate drip into your mug—yum! Supplies: Plastic spoons Dark/white chocolate (I used milk chocolate) Assortment of sprinkles, candies, nuts…. Cellophane bags, ribbons for wrapping (optional)

Directions: IMPORTANT NOTE: Do not microwave chocolate for more than 30 seconds at a time. As soon as the chocolate is mostly melted remove from the microwave and mix well until the chocolate is completely melted. Putting milk chocolate in the microwave too long will cause the chocolate to harden as opposed to softening it. Once the chocolate is melted, dip the spoon into chocolate and fill remaining area with melted chocolate. Sprinkle with toppings immediately. Let cool and harden before wrapping.

Marshmallow Mugs Double your marshmallow fun with these dressed up Jumbo marshmallows. Perfect to use as décor by a coffee bar/station or as an original activity on a cold winter afternoon. Supplies Marshmallows White parve chocolate Dark Parve/Milk chocolate( I I used milk) Straws

Directions Using a permanent marker, draw C’s (approx 1-1/2”) on a piece of parchment paper, and turn the paper over. (These C’s will be the coffee mug “handles.”) Put the white chocolate into a gallon size freezer Ziploc bag. Place chocolate in microwave. Do not microwave for more than 30 seconds at a time. You do not want the chocolate to get too hot because it will be hard to work with it. As soon as the chocolate is mostly melted, remove from the microwave and rub the side of the bag until the chocolate is completely melted. Using scissors, cut a small hole at the corner of the bag. Using the C’s as a guide, pipe the chocolate onto the paper. Allow to set in a cool place before carefully removing from the paper. Using a small amount of the melted white chocolate, attach the mug handles to the side of the marshmallow. Hold in place 2-3 minutes until set. Melt the dark chocolate and spoon out on top of the marshmallow to resemble “hot cocoa.” Place the straw in the “hot cocoa” immediately. Allow to dry. (Do not lift mug by the handle as it’s not too steady.) Enjoy and keep warm!

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home

Florida Dining Guide For those of you who are enjoying time off in sunny Florida, we miss you. But in between walks on the boardwalk and laps in the pool, make sure to check out these wonderful restaurants for lunch or dinner (or anytime in between!). Call before you go; these places fill up fast! 26 Sushi & Tapas 9487 Harding Avenue Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 570-2626

Butcher Block Grill 7000 West Camino Real Boca Raton, FL 334344 (561) 409-3035

Asi’s Grill & Sushi Bar 4020 Royal Palm Avenue (Off of 41st St.) Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 604-0555

Café Vert 9490 Harding Ave Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 867-3151

Asia Boca Raton 7600 W. Camino Real (off Powerline Rd.) Boca Raton, FL 33433 (561) 544-8100 Backyard BBQ and Brew 9460 Harding Ave Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 763-8818 Bagel Time 3915 Alton Road Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 538-0300 Beyond by Shemtov’s 514 West 41st Street Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 538-2123

Capri Sushi & Italian 726 - 41st Street Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 534-0551 Carlos & Gabby’s Miami 740 West 41 Street Miami Beach, FL 33140 (786) 276-1212 Chai Wok 1688 N.E. 164th Street N. Miami Beach, FL 33162 (305) 705-2110 China Beach 3919 Alton Rd. Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 534-3034

China Bistro 3565 NE 207th Street (The Waterways) Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 936-0755 China Kikar Tel Aviv 5005 Collins Avenue (In Carriage Club North) Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 866-3316

Grand Cafe Espresso Bar 2905 Stirling Rd Hollywood, FL 33312 (954) 986-6860 Grill House 976 41st Street (off Alton Road) Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 674-9005

Cine Citta Cafe 9544 Harding Avenue Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 866-8688

Grill Time North Miami 16145 Biscayne Blvd (just south of 163rd Street) North Miami Beach, FL 33160 (786) 274-8935

Dunkin Donuts 341 W. 41st St. in Miami Beach 3951 Stirling Road in Dania Beach (Hollywood)

Holy Bagels & Pizzeria 15903 Biscayne Blvd North Miami Beach, FL 33160 (305) 940-4402

Fresko 19048 NE 29 Avenue Aventura, FL 33180 (786) 272-3737

House of Dog Boca Raton 21077 Powerline Rd Boca Raton, FL 33433 (561) 826-9376

Fuego by Mana 3585 NE 207 Street Aventura, FL 33180 (786) 520-4082

House of Dog 456 W 41st Street Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 397-8733

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015

Jerusalem Pizza 761 NE 167 St North Miami Beach, FL 33162 (305) 653-6662

Mozart Grill 18120 Collins Avenue Sunny Isles, FL 33160 305-974-0098

Kikar Tel Aviv 5005 Collins Avenue Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 866-3316

Picasso Pizza 4051 Stirling Road Davie (Hollywood), FL 33314 (754) 300-5875

Kosh Miami 9477 Harding Ave Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 763-8601

Pita Hut Miami Beach 530 41 Street Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 531-6090

Kosher Gourmet 7508 Universal Blvd. Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 354-1296

Pita Hut North Miami Beach 18450 West Dixie Hwy North Miami Beach, FL 33160 (305) 792-0821

Lenny’s Pizza 544 Arthur Godfrey Rd. Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 397-8395

Rare Steakhouse 4101 Pine Tree Drive (off 41st Street in Tower 41) Miami Beach, FL 33140 (305) 532-7273

Lower East Side Restaurant 8548 Palm Parkway Orlando, FL 32836 (407) 465-0565 Mexico Bravo 16850 Collins Ave Sunny Isles, FL 33160 (305) 948-1158 Mozart Cafe Boca Raton 7300 West Camino Real Boca Raton, FL 33433 (561) 367-3412 Mozart Café Sunny Isles 18110 Collins Avenue Sunny Isles, FL 33160 (305) 974-0103

Rustiko 9476 Harding Ave Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 560-5650 Seventeen Restaurant 1205 17th Street Miami Beach, FL 33139 (305) 672-0565 Shalom Haifa 18533 West Dixie Highway North Miami Beach, FL 33183 (305) 936-1800 Soho Asian Bar and Grill 19004 NE 29th Avenue Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 466-5656

Subres Grill 2218 N.E. 123rd Street (former location of Sara’s Restaurant) North Miami, FL 33181 (305) 899-0095 The Harbour Grill 9415 Harding Ave Surfside, FL 33154 (305) 861-0787

Uncle Noodle’s Pizzeria 2530 NE Miami Gardens Dr North Miami Beach, FL 33180 (305) 918-8998 Yum-Yum Yogurt 2451 NE Miami Gardens Drive Miami, FL 33180 (305) 705-3784 TJH is not responsible for the kashrus or atmosphere of any establishment listed. Please check before you go to ensure a pleasant experience. Bon appetit!

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Studying Smart

Understanding the Redesigned SAT By Chaim Homnick

hen the organization behind a major standardized test announces that it is undergoing changes, educators, parents and students alike are left scrambling to identify the nature of the changes and the ram-

minor tweaks to question types such as when the SAT removed the short analogy section). The format and substance of the test are far different than the SAT of the past several decades. While the SAT wants you to believe that these chang-

The blatantly obvious truth is that the SAT-makers at the College Board were tired of having the ACT steal their lunch money, so to speak.

ifications those changes will have for students. While the Common Core changes to the Regents left people upset and confused, understanding the newly redesigned SAT has been nearly as difficult for many people to master. This is an issue because the SAT is the most critical test students take in their high school careers as it is a major factor in their acceptance to colleges. The biggest issue is that the new SAT has been totally redesigned in nearly every aspect (unlike earlier changes that had been

es were done to improve the test and to better measure key determinants in a student’s likelihood of achieving collegiate success, that is a smokescreen answer. The blatantly obvious truth is that the SAT-makers at the College Board were tired of having the ACT steal their lunch money, so to speak. The new SAT isn’t merely a new approach to measuring students’ skills as much as it is an attempt to regain customers (aka the students) who were choosing the ACT in ever-increasing numbers. In the mid-2000s the

number of students taking the ACT finally matched and then exceeded the number of those taking the SAT exam (which had long been the industry leader). The reason for this is that the ACT offered several clear benefits for students, and schools began pushing it as a result. While any decent college advisor weighed each student’s individual skills before advising them to pursue the SAT or ACT track, some schools just mass-advised all of their students to take the ACT, believing it to be “easier.” For many students, there was definitely truth to that assertion. The old SAT had a required essay, 5 choices for each answer, a penalty for guessing, direct vocabulary questions and critical thinking-based math. The ACT meanwhile is comprised of an optional essay, only four multiple choice selections per question, no direct vocabulary and straightforward math. The ACT threw in a science section built around graph and data interpretation but students who were weak in English or in logical math still flocked to the ACT in droves. So unsurprisingly, the new SAT has adopted those components of the ACT while seeking other ways to

appeal once again to high school juniors and seniors. The new SAT now has an optional essay, 4 multiple choice options, no penalty for guessing, and no direct vocabulary. The scoring has been simplified as the Reading and Writing now combine into one score so that the SAT is scored out of 1600 again. Streamlining the score back to being out of 1600 simplifies the score and makes it more standardized for colleges. That helps students know exactly where they stand in their applications to any school. The ACT still has 4 sections and some colleges only care about 2 sections while some view the full composite score. The interesting twist on the new SAT is that the Math is now split into two sections: math with a calculator and math without a calculator. While some students may struggle initially with the adjustment, any teen with a good math brain should be able to conquer the section as the math is very do-able. As an aside, perhaps this will also lessen many high schoolers’ over-reliance on their calculators. As for the Reading and Writing sections on the new SAT, there are some signif-

icant other benefits to the new format. These sections are now context-based and the performance on both sections combines into one score out of 800. This is extremely helpful to students as the Writing section (which tests grammar) is the easiest to improve upon. Students need not know the difference between past and present participles; they just need to master the basic 1215 grammar mistakes that the section emphasizes. On the old SAT, the Reading section was half of the 1600 score, now it is just a quarter of the total. That helps students with weaker reading comprehension and analysis skills. The SAT still doesn’t have a Science section, so that also helps decrease the amount of material that a student must study for. At this point, the ACT is only worthwhile for a student who is extremely strong in the sciences and will have a nearly perfect score on that section. Otherwise, the SAT has practically copied all of the benefits the ACT used to have exclusively, while leaving off Science and simplifying the scoring in an advantageous way. There are several other content-based changes to the new SAT but they are

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

mostly subtle. For example, the passages selected for SAT questions are now intended to cover either founding documents of the U.S. or contribute to the “global conversation.” Again, these are subtle nuances, not decision-altering changes.

SUMMARY OF KEY CHANGES OF THE NEW SAT

The one odd change in the SAT is the scoring for the PSAT. Students take the PSAT in 10th and 11th grade as a practice of sorts for the SAT. It helps the students see how prepared they are for the exam and what areas they need to improve in. Inexplicably, the PSAT is now graded out of 1520. In order to translate a student’s PSAT score to the SAT, it makes

Old SAT

New SAT

Scored out of 2400

Scored out of 1600

Penalty for Guessing

No Penalty for Guessing

Broken Down into 10 Sections

Divided into 4 Sections

Required Essay

Optional Essay

Direct Vocabulary

Only Limited Vocabulary in Context

Individual Grammar Questions

Grammar in Context Questions

5 Multiple Choice Options per Question

4 Multiple Choice Options

Calculator allowed for all Math Sections

New Math without a Calculator Section

sense to just add a full 80 points to the score. By doing that, parents, teachers and students can better understand and compare those scores. Ultimately, the new SAT is a drastic shift from the SAT of the last 20+ years. Nonetheless, the SAT-makers at the College Board

seem to have succeeded in their goal. They have created a better product that more directly competes with the ACT and better serves their customers. That makes it a no-brainer for many high school students.

This is a new column designed

to provide useful information within the education field. Chaim Homnick is the College Advisor at Mesivta Ateres Yaakov of Lawrence and also teaches five periods of Honors/ AP English Literature. Chaim is the owner of Five Towns Tutoring (fivetownstutoring.com) as well as Machane Miami Day Camp of Flori-

da (machanemiami.com). He scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and the LSAT and tutors both extensively. He has a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration as well as an MBA. For questions, comments, suggestions or for tutoring, he can be reached directly at chomnick@ gmail.com.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Forgotten Her es

Spies in Skirts Three Female Secret Agents who Helped Defy the Nazis By Avi Heiligman

Nancy Wake

Virginia Hall, the Limping Lady of WWII

Spy novels are filled with incredible tales of daring and covert missions that in reality could never happen. There have been many real life missions that are sometimes too hard to believe because imaginations have been told through novels that these missions must be fictitious. Several WWII undercover operations fall under this category and would be very hard for a novelist to concoct. As Mark Twain once said: “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t.” Below are three examples of the many spy stories that occurred during the bloodiest war the world has ever seen.

efore the war America had no foreign secret service or spy agency that was equipped to gather and assess all the information that was needed for the war effort. In 1941 President Franklin Roosevelt quietly instructed for one to be set up and soon it was called the OSS – Office of Strategic Services. One of their most valuable agents in France was a woman with one leg named Virginia Hall. She was born in Baltimore, knew four languages and had traveled the world. Her left leg had to be amputated after a hunting accident in Turkey but that didn’t stop her from joining the British secret agency the SOE – Special Operations Executive. They sent her to

Maria Skarbek

France to coordinate an underground network to fight the Nazi occupiers. The Nazis soon put the “Limping Lady” on the Most Wanted list but she escaped through Spain where she was put in prison. The American consul stationed in the officially neutral country (Spain did not fight in the war but had sympathized with Germany) was able to secure her release after six weeks behind bars. In 1944 she formally joined the OSS and was sent back into France to reorganize her resistance network. The work that Virginia Hall did while under the noses of the Nazis who relentlessly searched for her is incredible. One of the important aspects of a spy is to

blend in with the locals and act like he or she belongs there. Hall disguised herself as a milkmaid and dyed her hair grey. Many agents who parachuted into France were guided in by Hall as well as many supply airdrops for the resistance. Numerous reports on enemy troop movements and dispositions were relayed to London by her radio. She also trained three battalions of resistance fighters. In the weeks before and after D-Day, June 6, 1944, resistance fighters trained by Hall destroyed four bridges, severed rail and communication lines, in addition to killing 150 German soldiers and capturing over 500. After the war Hall was presented with the Dis-

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Fake identification certificate made by the OSS for Virginia Hall

tinguished Service Cross for her bravery behind enemy lines. Maria Skarbek was another brave woman who dared to defy the Nazis in daring exploits and intelligence gathering missions. She was born in Poland and changed her

When she and the officer arrived in Cairo, which was a hotbed for secret agents and spies, she found out that she was under suspicion because of her former contacts. Finally clearing her name, she stayed in Cairo for a bit while still employed by the British Royal Air Force.

Wake’s fake identity papers

agent and a French officer by a roadblock and arrested the trio. They were slated to be executed when Granville went into action. She pretended to be British General Montgomery’s niece and Cammaert’s wife and managed to convince a corrupt Gestapo officer that major

One of the important aspects of a spy is to blend in with the locals and act like he or she belongs there. Hall disguised herself as a milkmaid and dyed her hair grey.

name to Christine Granville in 1941 to avoid suspicion. Her mother was Jewish and was killed in a prison by the Nazis. When the war broke out in 1939 she had a tough convincing the British to use her as a secret agent but soon was sent to Hungary to help her family and friends escape. Along with a crippled Polish Army officer she helped smuggle out Allied men trapped behind Nazi lines as well as valuable intelligence information. However, the group was captured by the Gestapo in January 1941 but convinced the Nazis that she was deathly ill by feigning symptoms of tuberculosis and were released.

Granville was fluent in French which was a plus for any agent wanting to be sent into France in 1944. She was to take the place of agent Cecily Lefort who had been captured, tortured and executed by the Gestapo. Skipping the regular training of agents sent into France because of her experience, Granville parachuted into occupied France in July 1944. One of the best British agents, Francis Cammaerts, had set up an extensive underground network which Granville soon joined and rose up in rank to become second in command. However, the Gestapo stopped Cammaerts, another SOE

harm will befall him if the three weren’t released immediately. The officer bought the phony story hook, line and sinker and the prisoners were released from jail unharmed. In the last few months of the war she prepared to be dropped into Poland to act as a courier but the mission was scrapped. Another woman to organize resistance units in France was New Zealander Nancy Wake. She started as a freelance journalist and while traveling around in Europe saw the rise of Nazism. The sight of Jewish men being beaten in Vienna caused her to hate the Nazis with

such a passion that she decided to fight the Germans. Wake was in France when the Germans invaded in 1940 and joined the French resistance. At first she was a courier before being an active resistance member that helped Jews and downed airmen escape the Gestapo. The Germans wanted to capture her so badly that they placed a five million franc bounty on her, read her mail, tapped her phone calls and made the their Most Wanted person. None of this stopped her, and she escaped through Spain after being in jail for four days. Upon Wake’s arrival in London, the SOE called on her for continued training and to be sent back into France. She was known to be a better sharpshooter than most operatives and when she parachuted into France her gun was always handy. After being dropped in France by a B-24 Liberator bomber on February 29, 1944, she organized roughly 7,500 resistance members, called Maquis, to fight 22,000 German soldiers. The previous resistance leader refused to adopt techniques to fight a proper underground war and after a disastrous German attack that killed 150 Frenchmen, Wake took over command. She established commutation lines between the resistance and London and arranged for air

drops to supply the Maquis. Their record was remarkable as they caused 1,400 casualties while only suffering 100 of their own. During one raid she strangled a German sentry to death with her bare hands to prevent him from sounding the alarm. The Maquis killed 38 Germans during the raid. Wake had many close calls including being shot at by a German plane, running through numerous checkpoints and being pursued by many Gestapo agents. After the war she received many medals from six countries for her actions behind enemy lines and was credited with saving thousands of lives. Her only regret was not having killed more Nazis. These three women preformed acts of bravery that would probably cause any regular person to shiver with fear because of the dangers they undertook. Sadly, many spies – both men and women – were executed by the Nazis and we may never know some of their stories. Hall, Granville and Wake are three amazing secret agents whose stories we do have and are truly forgotten heroes. Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comments and suggestions for future columns and can be reached at aviheiligman@gmail.com.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Dr. Deb

Overcoming Mental Illness By Deb Hirschhorn, Ph.D.

vercoming mental illness may be started best by no longer thinking of it as “mental illness.” Or “disease” or a “sickness.” Why do I say that? There are three reasons why I’m putting it in these terms.

1. THE CONCEPT IS MADE UP; THEY ONLY DESCRIBE; THEY CAN’T ASCRIBE

If we look back in history, people who heard voices were thought of as prophets at one time. In a different era, they were considered possessed by the devil. At present, if you compare the European diagnostic code with ours, you learn that the Europeans have fewer categories, and ever since World War II are really, really hesitant to put labels on people. In the psychology world today, diagnostics are considered a “construct.” This means that we made up the idea because it seems useful to have it. We constructed it. Unfortunately, putting people into the “correct” diagnostic category is impossible because there is no objective measure of what the correct category would be. Yes, there are many rules as to what sorts of behaviors we are looking for but people don’t actually fall within the neat rules that the panel that composes the series of books on it have arbitrarily created. Unlike diagnosing a broken arm (which takes place with the help of an X-ray) or whether a person hit a D# (which takes place with the help of an ear that has perfect pitch or a tuning fork), diagnostic categories cannot be backed up by a pure example in na-

ture of each case. The absolute worst part of this is that people have begun to think of diagnoses as explanatory. But diagnoses are merely descriptive names of groupings of behavior or feelings. They don’t explain why the person has that behavior. Yet, people have come to think they do. As an example, if Mary shows the behavior of anxiety, where did the anxiety come from? It could not possibly come because she had an “Anxiety Disorder.” All “Anxiety Disorder” does is describe the symptoms she has. It cannot tell where she got them from. To do so would be ascribing those symptoms to some mysterious root cause in “having” the disorder, but that is circular reasoning. Research has shown again and again that there is no biological cause of such behaviors and feelings. At the most, science has been able to say that in certain families, there is a proclivity or propensity toward certain behavior. Now, that makes perfect sense. Let’s say a child is genetically endowed with a “sensitive” nature. Put that child in a rough family, one where he is, perhaps, mistreated, and I could see where he might be more likely to develop anxiety. This is logical, right? But it doesn’t mean that his genetics “caused” the anxiety. If that were true, then everyone with that genetic makeup would have anxiety and obviously they don’t. Plenty of sensitive people are not anxious. So, if the concept is made up to begin with, why think of it as “sick” at all? I will get back to this answer shortly.

2. IT IS NOT HELPFUL

Time and again, these categories are used to justify people receiving financial benefits which they would not receive otherwise. Therefore, having a diagnosis ends up rewarding a person for being “sick.” To the extent that the financial gain is indeed helpful, we could say, in a backwards kind of way, that the label is helpful. But to the extent that having the label helps a person overcome it, it is counterproductive. The proof that I have just given – that it rewards people for holding onto their symptoms – is not the only one. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I see a fair number of people who, because they have been given a label of one sort or another, use that label to shirk the effort needed to create a warm, happy, loving home. Says one person, “I’m emotionally handicapped. That’s what my doctor told me. So if I can’t show you love, it’s not my fault.” In other words, not only do people use the label to remain within the label because of financial gain but also because of psychological gain: They don’t have to make any changes to their way of interacting with their spouse or children. I will mention that upon occasion, I have heard from people that their label was a comfort because now they knew that the symptoms they were suffering from had a name and that they were not alone in as much as other people had them too. This is fine provided the information is presented to the client the right way. Saying, “You have Anxiety Disorder” would be a bad way of breaking the news. The person doesn’t “have”

anything: we’ve just explained that diagnoses are merely a psychological construct used for the purpose of describing behavior, not for ascribing a cause. A more productive way of explaining things would be for the therapist to say, “You seem anxious. What do you do to handle it?”

3. ALTERNATIVE WAYS OF SEEING SYMPTOMS ARE MORE HELPFUL

What inspired me to write on this topic was an old article that I came across by Stephen Gilligan in the Psychotherapy Networker a number of years ago. Gilligan learned under Milton Erickson, a world-famous hypnotherapist of the earlier 20th Century. Erickson’s education was medicine; he was a practicing psychiatrist. However, in his youth he had polio and used his time in bed imagining himself walking. Eventually, he literally re-trained his muscles to a large extent through self-hypnosis. Erickson did not think of symptoms as some pesky problem that needs banishment. Rather, the very fact that the person wishes to banish them – yet nevertheless has them – shows that the symptoms are in some way “telling” us something important that we need to know. Gilligan suggests we think of people as poems with some symbolism that we can express when words fail to capture feelings. To clients, their symptoms feel “like an alien presence” and they want their therapist to help get rid of them. Erickson believed in the

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

wholeness of people. Their symptoms were not alien at all but parts of themselves that they had trouble dealing with and so cut them off. Therapists – who also have parts of themselves cut off from awareness –- are unnerved by their client’s symptoms because they remind them of their own cut off parts. So, Gilligan explains, “we intellectualize it, turn it into a ‘syndrome,’ a diagnosis, a sickness somehow separate and apart from the ‘real’ self of the client” (p. 26). If we understand our symptoms to originate from parts of ourselves that were punished or frowned upon growing up, then we can learn to embrace those parts of ourselves. Erickson and Gilligan feel that we should accept and embrace all of ourselves. Once we do, then we not only understand where and why the symptom originated, but more importantly, we don’t need it anymore. Let’s take the example of a person

who feels depressed all the time. Let’s make up someone named Sherry. Sherry could not recall getting compliments from her parents on her schoolwork as a child. Her parents were hardworking people who didn’t have much time for the emotional niceties. As a result, Sherry was never sure whether she was doing things “right” or not. No matter what she did, she never got the feedback so necessary for a person to develop a sense of their own competencies. She gave up. In therapy, it turned out that she really couldn’t recall a time when she was not feeling blue. Following Erickson and Gilligan, her therapist did not label her with “Depression.” Rather, the therapist asked her if she could remember a time in her childhood that she was happy and she could not. “Poor little girl,” the therapist said softly. But at this, Sherry brusquely waved off the kind words. This ges-

ture is an indication of Sherry rejecting her younger self – with all of the pain, rejection, and humiliation that that part of herself carried. This gave her therapist the clue that her depressed feelings came from how Sherry learned to cope as a child: “If I give up hope for getting feedback about who I am and how I’m doing, then I won’t be disappointed.” Depression was the solution to a problem, not the problem. That is, giving up hope is bad and sad but having hope dashed is even worse. When her therapist looked at it that way, she did not try to “treat” the depression. Rather, she praised Sherry for having learned something as a child that would help her cope. Her depression was a smart move! Seen this way, Sherry could begin to embrace that clever part of herself that figured out a way to cope with a bad situation so many years ago. As she re-connected to herself, she also was surprised to find that she did not

feel depressed anymore. This makes sense. She no long had the “need” to cut off the part of herself that carried the pain because that part was now being shown to her in a brand new – and positive – light. She could feel empathic for her younger self for what she had to go through without having to hold onto the bad feelings associated with that part of her life. This way of looking at people is more empowering, don’t you think?

Dr. Deb Hirschhorn is a Marriage & Family Therapist and best-selling author of The Healing Is Mutual: Marriage Empowerment Tools to Rebuild Trust and Respect—Together. Attend the Food For Thought lectures at Waffelino Restaurant at 310 Central Avenue in Cedarhurst on Tuesdays at 9:45 AM. Any questions, call 646-54-DRDEB or check out her website at http://drdeb.com. All stories in Dr. Deb’s articles are fabricated. See Dr. Deb on TorahAnytime.com.

JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home

Health & F tness

The New and Improved USDA Dietary Guidelines By Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN

hinking back to your childhood memories, you might remember the food pyramid poster or the My Plate icon hanging in the lunchroom. These facts are based upon reviews of scientific research, food patterns, and analyses of current intake of the U.S. population. The findings are the basis for the development of the USDA Dietary Guidelines. These guidelines are composed every 5 years to reflect past research, ideals, findings and hope for a healthier future – just in the nick of time for our New Year’s resolutions! The USDA Dietary Guidelines for 2015-2020 were publicized this past week. These guidelines provide the population with current, up-to-date dietary recommendations to promote a healthy lifestyle. The 2015 Dietary Guidelines stress a “healthy

eating pattern.” Evidence shows that healthy eating patterns are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, obesity, and certain cancers. Healthy eating patterns include a higher intake of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy, seafood, legumes, and nuts. Lower intakes of meats, including processed meats and poultry; sugar-sweetened foods, and refined grains have also been identified as components of healthy eating patterns. In accordance with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines, I can’t stress enough the importance of fruit and vegetable consumption. The guidelines recommend eating 2½ cups of a wide variety of vegetables daily – from dark green leafy vegetables to bright orange peppers. Different vegeta-

bles contain different vitamins and minerals and each vegetable has a unique combination of nutrients to offer. So make sure to keep a variety of vegetables in your diet. Vegetables should be consumed with limited additions such as salt, butter, or creamy sauces. When selecting frozen or canned vegetables, choose those lower in sodium. A convenience of this recommendation is that eating vegetables can make you feel full without eating a lot of calories. The recommended two cups of fruit a day, especially whole fruits, provides many essential vitamins and minerals. One cup of 100% fruit juice is equivalent to 1 cup of fruit. When juices are consumed, they should be 100% juice, without added sugars. Many fruits are high in fiber which aids in digestion. A diet rich in fruits and veg-

etables helps prevent heart disease, certain cancers and type II diabetes. The new guidelines are pretty consistent with the 2010 guidelines, however, there is a new emphasis on limiting added sugars. Researchers agree it’s time to extract that sweet tooth. For the first time, the government put a limit on sugar; added sugar intake should only amount to about 10% of your daily calories. Added sugars include syrups and other caloric sweeteners. When sugars are added to foods and beverages, the sole purpose is to sweeten them. In the process, they add calories, but are not contributing essential nutrients. A diet high in sugar increases one’s risk of developing type II diabetes, obesity, heart disease and certain cancers. Also keep in mind that sugar comes in many more forms than just

cookies and candy. Sauces and dressings are generally loaded with sugar. So be aware when shopping to look out on the label for products such as fructose, sucrose, and corn syrup. Cutting out sugar from the diet isn’t as simple as it sounds. For those craving sugar, cutting out sweets can be dreadful. Try to fill those sweet tooth cravings with fresh fruits which contain natural sugars. In addition, filling up on water will help combat the sugar cravings, so keep pouring those cups of water! The biggest shock of the new guidelines is the lax opinion of cholesterol levels. The recommendation to limit cholesterol consumption to 300mg per day has been dropped. One egg contains roughly 200mg; therefore eggs were always frowned upon. The government no longer views

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

cholesterol as a “nutrient of concern.” They added that “individuals should eat as little dietary cholesterol as possible” since “foods that are higher in dietary cholesterol, such as fatty meats and high-fat dairy products, are also higher in saturated fats.” Saturated fat is the danger, not the cholesterol. This can be translated to many that eggs are back in the game. So crack out the frying pan and start scrambling those eggs! When it comes to saturated fat, the guidelines are consistent with those from 2010, allowing 10% of your daily calories to be from saturated fat. Saturated fat is found in meats and dairy and is considered “bad fat” since it increases the risk of developing heart disease,

weight gain, type II diabetes, and cancer. These fats should continue to be limited. Strong evidence shows that replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fats is associated with reduced blood levels of total cholesterol and of LDL cholesterol, both considered “bad cholesterols.” However, the 2015 guidelines stress the importance of “good fats,” fats that are vital to your health. “Good fats” include omega-3 heart healthy fats which are found in high amounts in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and oils. The next big break on the 2015 Dietary Guidelines is that coffee is actually good for you. We’ve spoken about this topic at length in the past. The researchers agree that moderate coffee

consumption (three to five cups a day) falls under the category of healthy eating patterns. The evidence portrays that caffeine intake is not associated with an increased risk of major chronic diseases or premature death, especially from cardiovascular disease. However, those who are not coffee drinkers should not jump to become coffee drinkers. Those who are already addicted to coffee, though, can keep chugging. To summarize, key recommendations of the 20152020 Dietary Guidelines for healthy patterns include: • A variety of vegetables from all of the subgroups—dark green, red and orange, legumes, starchy vegetables • Fruits, especially whole

fruits • Whole grains • Fat-free or low-fat dairy, including milk, yogurt, cheese, and/or fortified soy beverages • A variety of protein foods, including seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), and nuts, seeds, and soy products • Oils A healthy eating pattern limits: • Saturated fats and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium • Consume less than 10% of calories per day from added sugars • Consume less than 10% of calories per day from saturated fats Following these guide-

lines and healthy eating patterns will help keep us healthy and happy!

Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN, is a Master’s level Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist. She graduated CUNY Brooklyn College receiving a Bachelor’s in Science and Master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences. Her Dietetic Internship was completed under Brooklyn College primarily in Ditmas Park Care Center and Boro Park Center where she developed clinical and education skills to treat patients with comprehensive nutrition care. She is currently a dietitian at Boro Park Center and a private nutrition consultant. She can be reached at Cindy Weinberger1@gmail.com.

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JANUARY 21, OCTOBER 29, 2016 2015 || The The Jewish Jewish Home Home

Dating Dialogue

What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LMSW of The Navidaters

Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise offer resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, but to offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.

Dear Navidaters,

I’m wondering what the panel and you think about the age old expression “opposites attract.” I was set up with Jerry recently. As we got to know each other, we both had the same thought. “Could the two of us be any less alike?” Jerry is very cerebral and I’m more flighty and creative. Jerry likes sedentary recreational activities, like chess or watching spectator sports, and I like hiking and roller blading. I hope to travel much of the world someday, Jerry is happy staying put and visiting Israel when he wants to travel. Jerry usually sees the glass as half empty, I see the glass as half full. We are very, very different.

And yet ... there’s something about Jerry that I really like, and I think the feelings are mutual. For some crazy reason, when we are together, I feel good. I feel happy. I like who I am when I’m around him and believe that he finds me interesting and unique. I admire his smarts and the abundance of knowledge that he seems to have about everything, large and small. I will say that in terms of hashkafa and family goals, we are probably pretty much on the same page, and I know that is majorly important. But I worry about all the other differences that we have between us. He’s a homebody, I’m anything but. Frankly, there aren’t too many interests that we share, if any. So although I’ve never felt more comfortable with anyone else that I’ve dated, is it crazy to consider Jerry seriously despite all of our differences? Or, as the saying goes, can the fact that we are opposites actually be a good thing? Happy but Unsure

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The Panel

The Rebbetzin

The Mother

Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.

Sarah Schwartz Schreiber, PA

ou and Jerry are obviously connecting on many levels. Hashkafos, family goals, and personalities seem to mesh even though the first two are aligned and the third doesn’t seem to be so. Nonetheless, the two of you complement each other. Each seems to be filling in what the other is lacking. The two of you also appreciate each other’s strengths on a cerebral level and feel good with each other on an emotional level. Thus your question about the old adage is answered. Opposites can attract. What I think you are seeking from the outside – in other words, in this column – is validation and encouragement of this relationship. Go ahead and pursue it. Continue to meet and discuss your differences and how you can work them out long-term. If the dating process continues to demonstrate that you can work out small things such as details of dates (outdoor pursuits or sedentary activities) and your openness with each other and flexibility continues to grow, continue to go ahead. You will both be aware that some things will have to be worked out in the future but you will learn whether you have the tools to do so. You will learn whether the relationship will be worth developing these skills further. Personal qualities, hashkafos, and priorities in spiritual and family life are most critical. Leisure activities are much less important. So long as you feel he respects your interests and differences, let this relationship develop. Feeling comfortable and happy with each other is a good thing. Be open with one another, continue to date, and make sure that your relationship will be able to sustain a lot of talking and giving to each other. Then you will be ready to commit.

et me introduce you to my Uncle Shmiel, our family’s lovable geek. His favorite pastime is strolling the local marsh and collecting old sea shells and beach detritus. His wife, Aunt Betty, a social butterfly, refuses to join him on these jaunts. Her passion is Zumba and socializing with her eclectic group of friends. Two opposites? You bet! But with forty-five years of married bliss, five children and twenty grandchildren between them, they enjoy more in common than they lack in shared hobbies. Now back to your question: “Do opposites attract?” To quote a famous psychologist: “Opposites attract and drive each other crazy.” Imagine the neat freak living with a slob or the compulsively punctual wife living with a chronically late husband or the spender living with the cheapskate. Fireworks anyone? That said, what comes through in your query is that you “really like this person.” (“I feel good, “I feel happy”) and he brings out the best in you. You mention that you admire Jerry for his brains and abundance of knowledge. Also significant is that you share family values. In other words, in the departments of Chemistry, Respect, and hashkafa, three fundamental conditions of marriage, you are Jerry are wellmatched. So what about your interests in sports and travel and Jerry’s disinterest therein? The extent of your fervor (and Jerry’s apathy) towards these pursuits should be discussed candidly during your upcoming dates. Ask Jerry if, on his future trips to Israel, he would consider a detour through England or Greece?. Once married, would Jerry discourage his wife from skating, hiking or socializing with friends? In other words, gauge his flexibility index.

Whether husband and wife are matched for personality, flexibility is the engine that fuels a happy marriage. Just ask Uncle Shmiel and Aunt Betty!

The Dating Mentor Rochel Chafetz, Educator/Mentor

ou say you like who you are when you are with Jerry. That is a great sign. Not only do you enjoy him, but he finds you interesting and unique as well. There is a mutual respect going on here. You respect his knowledge and it sounds like he respects you. I think your differences are OK. The most important thing is that your hashkafa and family values are similar. I think you may really complement each other and have the potential to create a beautiful unit together. When each Jew gives half a shekel, together they make one. I give you my bracha and may you be matzliach and build a strong, committed bayit ne’eman b’Yisroel.

The Single Irit Moshe (pen name)

uring my first marriage we were the same level religiously and we were both primed and ready for marriage, with similar goals, as well, though we two were different in every way possible. He is an introvert and I am an extrovert. I love music and the arts, and he loves video games and learning. I grew up dancing, exercising, and playing tennis (in a skirt). I eat healthy, while he super-sizes the junk food bags. He avoids serious conversations and I yearn for them. Our senses of humor were very different as well. He likes slap stick humor and I like smart and English humor, and frankly, I don’t

If you are both willing to be realistic in your expectations, accept the other person as is, and practice flexibility for the sake of the other, then this relationship is certainly worth pursuing.

recall ever having a hardy laugh with him during our entire 7 years of marriage. Why do I bring my own marriage up here? Looking back, I honestly don’t know why I married him besides him being “a good guy.” As much as I tried to like the things he did and be introverted with him, I nearly “killed” my extrovert self, and as much as I tried to like the things he enjoyed, I lost myself in the process. He made no effort in being extroverted and he didn’t even pretend to like the things I liked, so I believe the more you have in common, the more likely you have a chance to succeed in marriage. When you have closer personalities and things in common, the more you enjoy each other’s company and build memories together without resentment. I am not saying that everything needs to be the same, just some things that bring you both together in good times. It are those times, memories and closeness that will help you as a couple to weather the difficult times in a marriage. Now, in my quest to remarry, I seek a man that I have things in common with and I encourage my clients to have similar personality types and things in common, as well.

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home

Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists

hank you for writing in! I understand you have some concerns. Let’s take a close-up look at your relationship (based solely on the information provided) and examine its strengths and perceived weaknesses. We cannot underestimate perhaps the most beautiful component of your relationship with Jerry. Chemistry. You and Jerry have an undeniable chemistry. According to Wikipedia, chemistry “in the context of relationships, is a complex ‘emotion’ that two people get when they share a strong connection. It is the impulse making one think, ‘I need to see this person again.’ That feeling of ‘we click.’” In the beginning of a relationship, chemistry may manifest itself as butterflies in the stomach, lightheaded euphoria. Suddenly you may lose your appetite, find yourself daydreaming about your new guy and counting down the seconds until you will see him again. And when you do see him, whoa boy! Fireworks! As you well know and stated, something just “feels right.” Many people report feeling as if they have known this other person their entire lives, or that he just feels so familiar. In the work that we do, we have met with many people who are dating and reporting the opposite experience. “Something just doesn’t feel right. There is no chemistry. Everything is perfect on paper. We enjoy the same things, have similar values and goals, but when I’m with him/her, crickets. Nothing. Do you think I can be happy long term in a relationship without chemistry?” The amount of stress this

quandary generates is staggering for the individual. While we know that for some people, a chemistry can grow with time, you have it naturally. Chemistry is not something to be taken lightly. As a matter of fact it should be celebrated. When two souls come together and spark it is indeed magical. The two of you are in agreement with regards to hashkafa and family goals. In the very important and non-negotiable arenas of “coupledom,” you see eye-to-eye. You agree upon the size of family you would like, the kind of shul you will attend, the way you view finances, relationships with in-laws and relatives, education, where you will live, etc. Again, check, check, check! Based on chemistry and consensus, this relationship has a tremendous foundation. However, (don’t you hate “howevers??”), chemistry and consensus is not the entire picture. For instance, imagine you are a married couple and you have asked Jerry for the 76th time to go ice skating with you. Or, you are in your golden years, the kids are grown and you are ready to travel the world. Sure, Israel will be one stop…but you are thinking Greece, Rome and Hawaii, too. You have an energy about you, a life force that Jerry doesn’t have. Jerry’s life force is perfectly content watching football every Sunday and looks forward to great naps during his golden years. We could say there are three components to a relationship: chemistry, values and interests. You and Jerry have two of three. But is that enough?

Sarah Schwartz Schreiber hit the nail on the head when she mentioned the concept of flexibility. Flexibility is about a person’s ability to adapt and accommodate. Perhaps more important than both yours and Jerry’s natural orientation toward a day well spent is your ability to be flexible with each other. The second concept I will introduce is expectations. When we enter a relationship, it is a good idea to discuss with our partner our expectations for the relationship and then consider in what ways we are or are not willing to be flexible. How flexible are you willing to be in this relationship? How flexible is Jerry willing to be in this relationship? What are you expectations for this relationship and what are Jerry’s? While some happy and healthy couples share interests, there are many who do not and are perfectly content. Are you willing to bend and spend a Sunday at home to appease Jerry? Is Jerry willing to bend and go ice skating or hiking? Are you the couple who will also enjoy spending time and pursuing interests apart from each other? Some couples welcome time apart as an opportunity to pursue their own interests and desires and report enjoying each other even more when they reconnect, feeling recharged and finding their partner more exciting than before. It’s a matter of personal comfort. In order to make this work, both of you would need to have realistic expectations. Jerry will probably never be a carpe diem kind of guy and you need to be OK with that. Though people do change over time, you cannot enter the relationship expecting him to change. Five years down the road, you don’t want to be fighting with him about his “laziness.” And Jerry needs to accept you as well. Five years down the road he can’t accuse you of being hyper or insatiable. If

Whether husband and wife are matched for personality, flexibility is the engine that fuels a happy marriage.

you are both willing to be realistic in your expectations, accept the other person as is, and practice flexibility for the sake of the other, then this relationship is certainly worth pursuing. So go ahead and enjoy your relationship. Relish time spent and the way you make each other feel. Perhaps you could set up an experiment to test Jerry’s flexibility muscle. Show an interest in his activities one day, and invite him on an “adventure day.” Keep the communication flowing and this could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Sincerely, Jennifer

Please note: This column is not meant to diagnose or otherwise offer comprehensive resolutions to any questions.

The Navidaters are dating and relationship coaches and therapists. Located in Lawrence, NY, their services include date debriefing, dating skills coaching, couples counseling, premarital and marital counseling. Sessions are held in the office or via phone or Skype. The Navidaters can be reached at 516.224.7779. If you have a dating or relationship scenario you would like to be featured in WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF, email thenavidaters@gmail.com. Check out their website, thenavidaters. com for more information. Follow TheNavidaters on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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In The K

The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015

tchen

One Pot Dinner By Naomi Nachman

Life is so hectic these days. With time always so short, I am always on the lookout for ways to make delicious dinners that take little prep time. I find it a bonus when you can also include a side dish that can cook alongside the main in the same pot (one less pot to monitor and one less pot to wash!). This easy dish can also be made in advance and frozen. You can try all different cuts of meats, such as brisket, shoulder, brick and/or square roast. You can also change up the vegetables, but I recommend that you always keep in the onion as it gives the dish a deeper and richer flavor. Ingredients 4 pound California roast 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon cumin (optional) 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 large onion, quartered 2 large loose carrots 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (OU parve) 2 cloves garlic 2 tablespoons sugar 1 cup red wine ½ cup ketchup ¼ barbecue sauce

Preparation Heat a pot big enough to hold the roast and vegetables with a snug fit. Add canola oil. Rub cornstarch and spices around the roast and sear on all sides and set aside. In the same pan, add in the vegetables and sauté for a few minutes while stirring. Place the roast in the pan on top of the vegetables and add the remaining ingredients. Cover and simmer on low for 3 hours. The meat will be very tender. Slice when cool.

Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website,www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”

Alright, so who put Donald Trump in charge of the elevator? - Sen. Ted Cruz, when he briefly got stuck in an elevator

Bernie’s really picking up some momentum. In fact, yesterday, he received an endorsement from the progressive website MoveOn.org. As opposed to Jeb Bush, who was just endorsed by the website “No, seriously. MoveOn.org!” – Jimmy Fallon

In a recent interview, Hillary Clinton said that she would investigate UFOs, and said that aliens may have already visited Earth. When he heard that, Trump said, “Forget the wall. We need a dome! Just build a huge dome. A huge classy beautiful dome! We’ll make the aliens pay for the dome.” – Jimmy Fallon

I’m just too busy campaigning. – Hillary Clinton on CNN, when asked whether she watched the new movie “13 Hours,” which is about the attack in Benghazi

Hillary Clinton complained about having to take selfies with voters, saying that it takes up too much time at campaign events. Yeah, good one, Hillary. That’s the way to capture the youth vote — directly criticize their favorite thing in the whole world. – James Corden

I’m sure it’s going to be just devastating to all their viewers. - Peyton Manning’s response when told that Al Jazeera America – which recently claimed he took banned substances – is closing due to abysmal ratings

They want to bring about what they call civilization jihad and destroy us from within. They recognize that we are vulnerable because we are so politically correct and won’t do anything about it. That’s why I’m trying to call attention to it. Not that I have anything against Muslims who want to be Americans who accept our values and our culture and our laws, but anybody who doesn’t, as far as I’m concerned, they’re not welcome. CAIR has been declared a terrorist organization by the United Arab Emirates and was named by federal prosecutors as an unindicted co-conspirator in a Hamasfunding operation. – Ben Carson talking about the Council on American-Islamic Relations

I have been to Bahrain and looked right across the Persian Gulf to Iran. Everything is very close there. – House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi on CNN, having her own “Sara Palin moment” (The distance spanning the Persian Gulf at its narrowest point – the Strait of Hormuz – is 53 miles)

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During a Donald Trump rally yesterday, a man was kicked out for yelling, “This is boring.” The man then went to a Jeb Bush rally and realized he owed Trump an apology. – Conan O’Brien

Hillary Clinton has escaped prosecution more times than El Chapo. – Republican candidate Carly Fiorina

President Vladimir Putin said that Russia has invented the world’s most effective drug to fight Ebola. Yeah. When asked if he tested it on rats, Putin said, “You could call them that. Sure, yeah, yeah. They’re rats.” – Jimmy Fallon

Until the moment I finished counting, I could not believe I had found my money and had it all back (I “was” so “anti-Orthodox” up until now). I wanted to give him a nice sum, but he absolutely refused to accept anything, and said that it was his mitzvah. - From a Facebook posting by a secular Israeli after an Israeli yeshiva student found the man’s bag containing 130,000 shekels (over $32,600) and returned it to him

A new poll shows that in the last month, Hillary Clinton’s lead in Iowa has shrunk from 9 percent to 2 percent. Meanwhile, her fake smile has grown 200 percent. – Seth Myers

While speaking at an evangelical university, Donald Trump misquoted the Bible…instead of saying “G-d” he said “Donald Trump.” - Conan O’Brien

These days, I also get to visit interesting places, meet with scientists, and watch a lot of lectures online. But reading is still the main way that I both learn new things and test my understanding… This is one of the things I love about reading, each book opens up new avenues of knowledge to explore. - Bill Gates, in a recent interview with the New York Times

Is there an email address we can reach you at? - Jimmy Fallon, during an interview with Hillary Clinton

Now it’s the hard left that’s trying to censor right-wing speech, conservative speech, Christian speech, pro-Israel speech, you name it… I know when I speak on college campuses in favor of Israel I need armed guards protecting me from radical leftist students who would use physical intimidation.

Ben & Jerry’s ice cream wants to make a flavor inspired by Bernie Sanders. Whatever flavor it winds up being, we know Bernie will hate it for being too rich .- Jimmy Fallon

I would love to sit down with Hillary Clinton – if she’d agree to do it as well – at the same table by the same operator and have a lie detector test. -Charles Woods, father of one of four Navy SEAL officers killed in Benghazi, in an interview on One America News Network

– Professor Alan Dershowitz, who is a lifelong liberal Democrat, on Fox News, talking about the militant left

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No white sugar. No white flour. No MSG… No coffee. No caffeine. No fungus. No dairy. - Tom Brady’s chef on the QB’s diet in an interview with Boston.com

Over the weekend, Bernie Sanders said that if he’s elected, he plans to spend $1 trillion to fight unemployment. When asked what they would do with that kind of money, unemployed people said, “Retire!” – Jimmy Fallon

The set of “Sesame Street” just got a major upgrade, and now Elmo lives in a brownstone apartment. And in another upscale move, Cookie Monster has been replaced by the Gluten-Free Biscotti Monster.

During his speech, President Obama criticized companies for not being loyal enough to their employees. Yeah, employees would agree, but they were busy buying Powerball tickets so they could quit their job. – Jimmy Fallon

South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham on Friday endorsed Jeb Bush for president. Though I imagine getting an endorsement from Lindsey Graham is about as helpful as being backed up in a bar fight by Lindsey Graham. – Seth Myers

Donald Trump has defied everybody’s predictions, and he’s still there, and he only seems to get stronger. The guy eats third rails for breakfast…. I have no idea what this guy would have to do to make his crowd turn on him. He’s like a movie monster who only gets stronger with the stuff that you’re using to try to kill him. – Bill Maher

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During last night’s debate, Hillary Clinton said her husband would serve as her “kitchen table” advisor. Meanwhile, Bernie Sanders said his wife would serve as his “handrails in the bathroom” advisor.

It was reported today that 62 people own half of the world’s wealth. The other half bet on the Green Bay Packers. - Conan O’Brien

– Conan O’Brien

I don’t understand why liberals don’t stand up for liberal values... It’s not a criminal element unless you are willing to indict the entire society as criminals. There is polling on this. A great many Muslims around the world are for Sharia law. You know what is in Sharia laws. Cutting off the hands for thievery….Putting people to death for leaving their religion. Women are not equal citizens. These are not criminal activities in Muslim society, these are activities. So the idea that when Syrian refugees come to European countries or to America that they are going to completely fit in is a fantasy. – Bill Maher

A self-driving car in Southern California got stuck going in circles without anyone behind the wheel. Police had to use spike strips to get it to stop, which is the first time in history that cops put a stop to making doughnuts. It’s very interesting. – Jimmy Fallon

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At last week’s Republican debate, Ted Cruz accused Donald Trump of having “New York values.” Trump said that’s ridiculous, and then overcharged Cruz for a bagel. – Conan O’Brien

The Republican candidates held another debate in South Carolina, and it went on about half-hour longer than expected. Which isn’t bad, considering Trump’s campaign has gone on half a year longer than expected. – Jimmy Fallon

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

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Political Crossfire

The State of the Presidency: Spent By Charles Krauthammer

resident Obama’s Tuesday night address to Congress was less about the state of the union than the state of the presidency. And the state of this presidency is spent. The signs of intellectual exhaustion were everywhere. Consider just three. After taking credit for success in Syria, raising American stature abroad and prevailing against the Islamic State – one claim more surreal than the next – Obama was forced to repair to his most well-worn talking point: “If you doubt

standing around the world is higher than when I was elected to this office,” Obama boasted. Surveys, mind you. As if superpower influence is a Miss Universe contest. As if the world doesn’t see our allies adrift, our enemies on the march and our sailors kneeling, hands behind their heads, in front of armed Iranians, then forced to apologize on camera. (And our secretary of state expressing appreciation to Iran after their subsequent release.) On the domestic side, Obama’s agenda was fairly

Obama’s speechwriters not know that it was Richard Nixon who first declared a war on cancer – in 1971? But to see just how bare is the cupboard of ideas of the nation’s most vaunted liberal visionary, we had to wait for the stunning anachronism that was the speech finale. It was designed for inspiration and uplift. And for some liberal observers, it actually worked. They were thrilled by the soaring tones as Obama called for, yes, a new politics – a post-partisan spirit of mutual understanding, rational discourse and

You’d have thought we were back in 2008 with Obama’s moving, stirring promise of a new and higher politics that had young people swooning in the aisles – and gave Obama the White House.

America’s commitment – or mine – to see that justice is done, just ask Osama bin Laden.” Really? Five years later, that’s all you’ve got? Indeed, it is. What else can Obama say? Talk about Crimea? Cite Yemen, Libya, Iraq, the South China Sea, the return of the Taliban? “Surveys show our

short, in keeping with his lame-duck status. It was still startling when he worked up a passion for a great “new moonshot”: curing cancer. Is there a more hackneyed national-greatness cliché than the idea that if we can walk on the moon...? Or a more hackneyed facsimile of vision than being “the nation that cures cancer”? Do

respect for one’s opponents. Why, it was hope and change all over again. You’d have thought we were back in 2008 with Obama’s moving, stirring promise of a new and higher politics that had young people swooning in the aisles – and gave Obama the White House. Or even further back to 2004, when Obama

electrified the nation with his Democratic convention speech: “There’s not a black America and white America and Latino America and Asian America; there’s the United States of America.” Tuesday night, Obama did an undisguised, almost phrase-for-phrase reprise of that old promise. Earnestly, he urged us to “see ourselves not, first and foremost, as black or white, or Asian or Latino, … immigrant or native born, not as Democrats or Republicans, but as Americans first.” On cue, various commentators were moved by this sermon summoning our better angels. Good grief. I can understand falling for this 12 years ago. But now? A cheap self-quotation, a rhetorical mulligan, from a man who had two presidential terms to act on that transformative vision and instead gave us the most divisive, partisan, tendentious presidency since Nixon. Rational discourse and respect for one’s opponents? This is a man who campaigned up and down the country throughout 2011 and 2012 saying that he cares about posterity, Republicans only about power. The man who accused opponents of his Iran treaty of “making common cause”

with Iranians “chanting death to America.” The man who, after Paul Ryan proposed a courageous, controversial entitlement reform, gave a presidential address – with Ryan, invited by the White House, seated in the first row – calling his ideas un-American. In a final touch of irony, Obama included in his wistful rediscovery of a more elevated politics an expression of reverence for, of all things, how “our founders distributed power between ... branches of government.” This after years of repeatedly usurping Congress’ legislative power with unilateral executive orders and regulations on everything from criminal justice to climate change to immigration (already halted by the courts). There is wisdom to the 22nd Amendment. After two terms, presidents are spent. Nothing shows it like a State of the Union valedictory repeating the hollow promises of the yesteryear candidate – as if the intervening presidency had never occurred. (c) 2016, The Washington Post Writers Group

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Political Crossfire

Obama Promised Hope; He Brought Rage By Michael Gerson

ow let us praise laundry lists. Every year at State of the Union time, the president and his staff say the

speech will not include them. But the laundry won’t keep track of itself. The union is varied and expansive, and so are the responsibilities of

its chief executive. Enumerating accomplishments and objectives amounts to lists, which Obama had in plenty last Tuesday night. The interesting thing is why this particular laundry was chosen. By what principle does the president want personalized medical treatments, paid leave, pre-K for all, the cure for cancer, a transition

caucuses had little to do with an ideological vision or policy agenda (which was, in fact, the utterly predictable liberalism of a backbench senator). That giddy night, he claimed that a “divided” and “disillusioned” country found “a common purpose.” His 38 percent in the caucus proved “we are one people.” We would “move

What is liberalism without public trust in government? A college class.

away from dirty energy, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership? Obama advanced no ideological claim of what government should do; no technocratic vision of how its performance might be improved. The lists exist because Obama, who sees the “next frontier,” chose them. His person unites his agenda – not quite in the leadership league, he admits, of Lincoln or Roosevelt, but he has obviously thought hard and long about the comparison. This was the way Obama was introduced to the country eight years ago. His victory in the Iowa

beyond the bitterness and pettiness and anger that’s consumed Washington.” “This was the place,” Obama said, “where America remembered what it means to hope.” Elsewhere he would say: “I have become a symbol of the possibility of America returning to our best traditions.” Obama would bring balance to the Force. Prospectively, with eight years ahead, this was inspiring. Retrospectively, with seven years behind, the same claim comes across as self-centered and a little sad – a world-historic figure picking

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

through the refuse of the years for this shiny accomplishment and that. His solutions to 21st-century problems look suspiciously like 20th-century liberalism. And where has Obama actually left his party and American liberalism? Obama is the first Democrat since Franklin Roosevelt to win back-to-back majorities of the national popular vote. But members of his party who venture beyond the 18 acres of the White House will find political ruin. Since taking office, Democrats have lost 13 Senate seats, 69 House seats, 11 governorships, 30 state legislative chambers and more than 900 state legislative seats. In border states that not long ago produced national Democratic leaders – such as Arkansas and Tennessee – the Democratic collapse is especially pronounced. Few presidents have done better for themselves and worse for their parties. And perhaps most disturbingly for America’s liberal party, trust in government to do the right thing is near historical lows. According to a Pew Research Center average, just 19 percent of Americans trust government to do the right thing all or most of the time. The whole of the Democratic agenda, the whole of Hillary Clinton’s agenda – from gun control to immigration reform to reducing greenhouse gases – requires some modicum of trust in the capacity of government to act in the public interest. What is liberalism without public trust in government? A college class. Declining trust in government is part of a larger decline in the trust of institutions generally. But it is fair to say that the launch of Obamacare, the Veterans Affairs hospital scandal and the IRS political targeting scandal did little to halt the slide. Obama was either complicit in the trend, or helpless against it. The same could be said of political polarization – which Obama eventually decided he could not fight, and joined with enthusiasm. Or the rise of an angry, anti-establishment populism. More than 10 years of belief that America is on the “wrong track” has hardened into outrage and cynicism, and left some Americans vulnerable to ideologues and demagogues. These will be remembered as the characteristics of the Obama era –

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For more information contact not hope, but anger and cynicism. It was a time when many Americans learned to rage. The president and the future nominee of his party now have one advantage. Somehow these trends have produced another cult of

personality, on the other political side – untethered to ideas, offering only himself as the solution to our problems, turning bitterness and pettiness into a previously undiscovered political art. This might be the strangest turn: a Republican

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TJH Speaks with

Rachel Stahler LMSW, JSC ISY Program Director JSC: PROVIDING OUR YOUTH WITH THE KEYS TO UNLOCK THEIR POTENTIAL TJH: Thank you for joining us, Rachel. Can you tell us what the Jewish Services Coalition is all about? RS: The JSC is a non-profit organization that was brought to life in 1981. It was created as a multipurpose organization aiming to offer an array of services to many types of populations. This included the elderly, immigrants, at-risk youth and disadvantaged families. As the previous executive director, Esther Schenker was the life and heart of our organization. Once she left to another position, she still makes sure to actively be involved in JSC, and I still consult with her today for her guidance and expertise. Today, we channel all of our energy and assistance towards the population of our future: our youth. The kids in our program benefit tremendously from one-onone mentoring and acute attention to their needs. We are relatively new, with fresh and passionate staff, and we are working extra hard to make a difference these days, so expect to hear our name more! What is it that you do and how did you get involved? Tell us about yourself and your experience. I am a licensed social worker with an advanced certificate in child welfare and I serve as the Program Director of the JSC. Specifically, I run the In-School-Youth or ISY program. I wanted to become the JSC program director as I knew it meant I can use my creativity to build a program specifically for teens. I felt that with my extensive experience with kids, I would know how to cater and appeal to them and their needs. I have been

working with teenagers for the past 7 years in varying capacities, whether as a basketball coach, mentor, counselor, group facilitator, and teacher and student intern. While studying in Israel post high school, I met Chaya.* Chaya was a teen who had alcohol issues as well as other addictive tendencies, and I was able to be there for her throughout her ordeal. I continue to support and connect with her, six years later. Chaya’s situation introduced me to the unfortunate plight of so many teens out there, whether on a small scale or with bigger issues like Chaya’s. I realized teenagers require constant supportive and non-judgmental figures in their lives. It was then that I discovered my passion for helping young adults and my desire to get my Master’s in Social Work. My personal experiences ignited my passions and strengths, paving the road to my destined profession. With my current experience and license as a social worker in New York State, as well as my sensitivity and unique skills geared towards helping kids, the JSC hired me to help push passion, idealism and efficiency through the program and these are undoubtedly my goals. What kind of services do you provide? Through the amazing efforts of the JSC-ISY program, high school teens receive complimentary services to help better their grades, to empower them with knowledge about careers and colleges, and to prepare them for independence beyond school limitations. JSC additionally helps develop skills essential for social relationships and personal well-being. We offer varied courses:

tutoring, SAT prep (through Kaplan), work-readiness classes, life skills classes, guidance, counseling, securing a paid summer internship, as well as fun activities, exercise and more. The students are given the tools they need to achieve success. Our aim is to build an ongoing relationship with the participants who qualify for our program. Can you be specific? What kind of activities, and what do you mean by internships? Of course, we offer fun and exciting activity nights for the kids, amongst them are free workouts or different chessed opportunities. We also arrange for free workshops, provide sports game tickets, help arrange for class trips and whatever else we can do to please the kids and provide a fun, safe and kosher outlet. As a licensed social worker experienced with children and teens, I know how important it is for high school kids to have a healthy outlet. In terms of summer internship, it’s similar to the youth core program. With JSC-ISY, not only can kids work where they want to and get paid, they are encouraged to intern at a job that they are considering pursuing a profession in and they receive payment for that as well. It’s a win-win situation. They get the experience and the payment for it. How does one become qualified? There are various ways to qualify for our program. For starters, you need to be a resident of one of the five boroughs – not to be confused with the Five Towns. Once that criterion is cleared, sometimes it’s desire-based and other times it’s need-based. The

Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) has certain guidelines as well that we adhere to, as they help fund our program. We also receive generous support from Councilman Donovan Richards and the Silvian Foundation for the JSC-ISY program. We are extremely grateful for their continued support. What schools do you currently work with? We currently work with TAG, TMM, Yam HaTorah, and YFR and we hope to expand over the next few years to help as many Jewish high school kids as we can. It’s really a special opportunity to be able to work with schools that truly support their students receiving some extra help. Also, when they are out of school following graduation, we keep in touch with our participants and try to assist them in any way we can. Anything else you’d like to share? We’d like to make a special mention for the establishments that sponsor occasional events: Bagel Boys, Brach’s, BOGO Pizza, Coffee Bar, Cravingz, Gourmet Glatt, Seasons, and Stop Chop and Roll. And one more thing: we’d love to expand and grow to help as many kids as we can but we are a non-profit working off a tight budget. Any questions or ideas are definitely welcome! You can call me directly at 718-3276060 or email me at rstahler@jccrp. org. You can also see more information about the JSC on our website www.jscyouth.org.

The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

From My Private Art Collection

The Artwork of Paul Cezanne By Rebbetzin Naomi N. Herzberg

Still Life with Apples and Oranges

aul Cezanne was a French artist who lived from 1839-1906. He was an artist who was deeply passionate about changing the Impressionist style of painting from what was viewed by the eye into a new type of painting known as Postimpressionism. The term refers to a movement that placed new emphasis on the importance of the subject, and the formal ways in which a subject was represented. Cezanne felt that it was important to be able to express emotions through artwork. Originally, he was introduced to the Impressionist way of painting by Camille Pissaro, but he did not feel good about his work because he wanted to produce artwork in a museum-like quality. In order to produce this type of work he spent many years on one painting. His famous work, titled “Still Life with Apples and Oranges,” took him five years to complete. This was an oil painting painted on a canvas. Many times he would resort to distorting images in order to make a statement in his artwork. As such Cezanne’s artwork became somewhat abstract in nature and he was famous for creating this type of artwork. Cezanne referred to it as Divisionism. In order to achieve these effects, the technique called pointillism was used. This technique is achieved by painting small dots of colors next to each other.

Basket of Apples

When looking at the colors they appear combined and the colors form an optical illusion of a different color. It is the blending of colors with the eye that achieves these results. His style of producing artwork had a great influence on the style of art known as Cubism. Paul Cezanne used his innate and unique way of expression to create paintings which are considered extremely masterful pieces of artworks. Included are some of his most famous quotes which are insightful and helpful when creating artwork: “Pure drawing is an abstraction. Drawing and color are not distinct, everything in nature is colored” “With an apple I will astonish Paris” “Art is a harmony parallel with nature” “An art which isn’t based on feeling isn’t an art at all... feeling is the principle, the beginning and the end; craft, objective, technique – all these are in the middle” “There are two things in the painter: the eye and the mind; each of them should aid the other” Rebbetzin Naomi N. Herzberg is a professional art educator, artist and designer. Among her known artwork is a floral sculpture presented to Tipper Gore, Blair House, Washington, D.C. Please feel free to email nherzberg@hotmail.com with questions and suggestions for future columns.

The Pipe Smoker

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Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 SERVICES

SERVICES

HOUSES FOR SALE

Alternative Solutions Geriatric Care Management staff will assist you with: * Obtaining Medicaid and Pooled Income Trust * In-home Assessments, Individual and Family Counseling * Securing reliable home care assistance * Case and Care Management services Dr. S. Sasson, DSW, LCSW (718) 544- 0870 or (646) 284-6242

SAFETY GRAB BARS Install… before you Fall! Home Work After 3, INC. Licensed and Insured Call Mark Dubin @ (516) 569-2113

INWOOD: Lovely 5BR, 2 Full Bath Side Hall Colonial, LR, Formal DR, Den, Eik, Close To All…$459K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

Buying or Refinancing a Home? Pre-Approval letters that brokers trust! Put as little as 3% down. Borrow up to 90% with no MI! We can beat any written offer! Specializing in very difficult scenarios Call Daniel at Landmark Funding Group. NMLS#367291 at 718-663-7202 All loans arranged through 3rd party lenders.

Leah’s Beauty Concepts Experienced Makeup Artist and Skin Care Specialist Makeup for all occasions Conventional and airbrush Wake up looking beautiful with permanent makeup Relaxing deep cleansing European facials Laser hair removal-electrolysis Leah Sperber 917-771-7329 The Children’s Clothing Gemach in Cedarhurst is fully stocked for boys/ girls in sizes newborn-teen. To make an appointment please call/text 516-712-7735 Personal chef, menu planning, grocery shopping, cooking, will stock your freezer with prepared meals, customized meals, every day, holidays, dinners, Naphtali Sobel 516-732-1729 Struggling with Shalom Bayis? The Shalom Bayis Hotline 732-523-1112. Caring rabbanim answering your questions for free. So far very positive results BS’D! HAIR COURSE Learn how to wash and style hair and wigs Hair and wig cutting, wedding styling Private lessons or in a group Call Chaya 718-715-9009 SHALOM HANDYMAN Plumbing, heating, sewer, locks, dryer vent cleaning, and more. Call 917-217-3676

“Kosher” Yoga & Licensed Massage Therapy Peaceful Presence Studio 436 Central Avenue, Cedarhurst Separate men/women Group/private sessions, Martial Arts... Gift Cards Available www.peacefulpresence.com 516-371-3715

HOUSES FOR SALE Don’t Get Stuck With a Two Story House Ya Know, It’s One Story Before You Buy It But a Second Story After You Own It! Call Dov Herman For An Accurate Unbiased Home Inspection Infrared - Termite Inspection Full Report All Included NYC 718-INSPECT Long Island 516-INSPECT www.nyinspect.com

WOODMERE 6 Bdrms, 2.5 Baths, new trex front porch, brick patio, in ground pool, koi pond with water fall, central A/C, gas/steam heat, wood floors, security system with cameras and remote control front gates Asking $799,000, taxes $14,800. Please call 516-569-9042 WOODMERE NEW CONSTRUCTION 5 BR, 3.5 Bths, Center Hall Colonial. Master Suite w/2 Walk in Closets, Guest BR wFull Bath on First Floor. Radiant Heat on First Floor, Granite Kosher EIK………………….….. $1.3M By Owner NO Brokers 646-634-4642 HEWLETT: Charming 3BR, 2.5BA Colonial on CulDe-Sac, Eik, Formal DR, Full Finished Bsmt W/Sept Entrance, Lovely Private Backyard…$435K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com FAR ROCKAWAY: PRICE REDUCED!!! Lovely 4BR, 4 Bath Colonial, LR, Formal DR, Eik, Den, 4 Bedrooms On One Floor, Full Finished Basement…$949K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

INWOOD: 2 Family, 4BR, 2 Full Baths, 2 Eik, Basement, O/S Property, 2 Car Garage, Low Taxes...$489K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com WOODMERE: 2BR Ranch, 2 Dens, LR/DR, Finished Attic, Large Property, Close To All…$425K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

CO-OP FOR SALE WOODMERE: Just Listed!!! Unique 1st Floor Co-op In Pet Friendly Bldg, 2BR, LR, Formal DR, Near LIRR…$168,500 Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

COMMERCIAL RE CEDARHURST OFFICE SPACE LOWEST PRICES IN TOWN! 500-5000 square feet very nice office space with cool conference room & Kitchen. Onsite parking Great Location. Lots of options! Will divide and customize space for your needs! Call 516-567-0100 EAST ROCKAWAY: 900 +/- SF Office Space in Great Location, Former Dental Office, Ideal for Dental/Medical or Professional, For Lease …Call For More Details Broker (516) 792-6698 Hempstead: 2500 +/- Sf Retail Store With Basement, Municipal Parking, Hvac Heat, 2 Bathrooms, Former Restaurant & Take Out. For Lease …Call Lori for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

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Charming 3BR, 2BA Col, Great Loct! 2BR Ranch On 3BR Colonial, FDR, Eik, Renov 3BR, 2BA Ranch, Eik, Low Taxes..$419K 80x100 Ppty, 2 Dens…$425K Den, Patio,SD#14..$499K Lg Eik, MBR Ste...$599K

6BR, 3BA Hi-Ranch, Eik, Great Potential Investment, Bright 5BR, 3BA Hi-Ranch, Fabulous 5BR, 4.5BA ExpFDR, Fin Bsm..$649K Legal 2 Family, 6BR..$699K IG-Pool, Deck…$999,995 Ranch, 1/2 Acre..$1.595M

Susan Pugatch

Carol Braunstein

(516)

Call or Text

(516) 592-2206

295-3000

www.pugatch.com

spugatch@pugatch.com

H E W L E T T: 1185 E. Bdwy #3C (11-12:30)$215K LAWRENCE: 115 Lawrence Ave(2:30-4)$999,995 LAWRENCE: 2 6 0 C e n t r a l Av e ( 1 2 - 3 ) R E G E N C Y LYNBROOK: 200 Atlantic Ave(12:30-2)$169K-$189K VALLEY STREAM: 60 Dar tmouth St(12-1:30)$339K 2200 +/- SF Free Standing Bldg Currently Medical Prime Location On-Site &

Long Term Lease Full Installation Low Key Money Great Location,

Metered Parking

Convenient To All

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Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 COMMERCIAL RE

COMMERCIAL RE

APT FOR RENT

LAWRENCE: PROFESSIONAL SUITE in the Plaza Bldg, Central Ave, 24hr Doorman, 3 Treatment Rms, Reception & Waiting Area. For Sale… Call For More Details Broker (516) 792-6698

INWOOD OFFICE SPACE LOWEST PRICES IN TOWN! 500-7000 Square feet gorgeous office space with WATERVIEW in Inwood! Lots of options. Tons of parking. WIll divide and customize space for your needs! Call 516-567-0100

LAWRENCE Large 2 Bedroom Apartment for Rent on Second Floor of Private Home Near LIRR and Shaaray $2K/month, includes heat For more information call 516-318-9153

INWOOD Commercial mixed use building + Lot. Private parking, corner property, high traffic area 1st floor offices, 2nd floor: 2 Apts. Asking 849k. Call 212-470-3856 Yochi @ WinZone Re

FAR ROCKAWAY BRAND NEW CONSTRUCTION 2 AND 3 BEDROOM APTS. Granite countertops SS appliances. Indoor and outdoor playground 2 br starting at $1600 3 br duplex starting at $2100 NO FEE call Heidi 516-514-7525

LYNBROOK: PRICE REDUCED!!! 10,000 +/-SF Combined Two Buildings, Many Upgrades, Great Location, Can Be Divided, For Sale …Call Ian for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com OCEANSIDE: 1500-3,000 +/- SF Space in Prime Location on Long Beach Rd, On-Site Parking, Can be Retail or Office Use. For Lease…Call Randy for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com WOODMERE: Follow The Leader To Woodmere, Now Is The Time To Act!!! No Metered Parking, Various Retail/Office Spaces Available, For Sale/Lease...Call For More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com CEDARHURST: 500-3000 +/- SF Professional Office Space Available in the Heart of Cedarhurst, For Lease... Call For More Details Broker (516) 792-6698

APT FOR RENT LAWRENCE: 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath Apartment, Washer/Dryer in Unit, CAC, Use Of Yard & Driveway, Must See…$2,395/Mo. Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com

FAR ROCKAWAY 3 Bedrooms – New Construction Central air, oak floors, granite kitchen, elevator building. Asking $2350 Call Yossi 917-337-6262

HOUSE FOR RENT - LAWRENCE For rent by owner, No Brokerage Involved. Large renovated Center Hall Colonial. Central location - Lawrence; walk to all shuls. Hi ceilings. New eat-in kitchen with Stainless Steel appliances. 5 large Bedrooms, Wood paneled library, Formal Dining Room, Den, Backyard, excessive amount of closet space. Available immediately. $4,250 p/mo. 917-455-7376

APT FOR RENT Brand new luxury 3 bedroom 2 bath apartment in central Far Rockaway 2 Family home. Features: Private entrance, 1 car off street parking, Sukkah porch. Large eat in kitchen with new appliances, Living room, Dining room, Additional storage in attic, Separate heat, A/C, hot water, Washer/Dryer Hook Up, Walk to all Call 1-917-415-0055 CEDARHURST 500-3,500 +/- SF Beautiful, newly renovated space for rent. Ideal for Retail or Executive offices. Prime location. Convenient Parking. Call Sam @ 516-612-2433 or 718-747-8080 ON SEAGIRT AVENUE 2 & 3 bedroom. Newly renovated. Washer and dryer hook up. Granite countertops. More info call or text 917-602-2914

FAR ROCKAWAY Recently renovated 3 bedrooms, 1 1/2 bath, first floor, great location. Please call: 917-376-5948

Kattamon

German Colony

Spacious 5 bedroom apartment in a prestigious building with a lobby, fitness room, Synagogue, storage room, parking and a Shabbat elevator. City Center

In a boutique building in the German Colony, 7 room apartment with a private entrance, 203 sqm + 90 sqm garden + balcony, 4 bedrooms plus a family room, covered parking and storage.

City Center bordering Rehavia, close to the Great Synagogue, luxury 3 bedroom apartment of 150 sqm featuring a Succah balcony, parking, elevator and storage.

New building, 6 room luxury penthouse, 185 sqm, 70 sqm terraces overlooking incredible views, high standard, Shabbat elevator, storage room and private parking.

Old Kattamon

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Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 BUSINESS OPPNTY

HELP WANTED

Five Towns Restaurant for Sale Ongoing business; Good sales; Great reputation. Perfect opportunity Email: kosherrestaurantforsale@gmail. com or call: 516-206-1100

Fast-paced office in the 5 Towns seeking talented, professional Executive Assistant. Includes administrative duties for Sales Management. Responsibilities may include screening calls and customer relations. Requires strong computer skills. Also calls for flexibility, excellent interpersonal skills, project coordination experience, and the ability to work well with all levels of internal management and staff, as well as outside clients and vendors. Please submit qualified resume to admin@ getpeyd.com

Social Worker For 200+ bed nursing facility in Queens Must be knowledgeable in cre planning and MDS & have prior LTC or hospital experience Please email resume promrehab@aol.com

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL to work with men with autism and other disabilities in a residential setting in Cedarhurst. F/T positions include: 3pm-11pm, and Overnight. High pay rate, plus benefit package. Contact OHEL Bais Ezra 718-686-3102 or www.ohelfamily.org/careers

HELP WANTED Ohel Bais Ezra’s Community Habilitation and Respite Programs are looking for creative dedicated and responsible male and female staff to work oneon-one with children or adults with developmental disabilities who live at home in your community. Locations include Far Rockaway, Queens, Long Island, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island. Experience and driving strongly preferred but not required. Good English communication skills a must. Flexible part time, after school hours. For more information contact OHEL Bais Ezra 718-686-3487 or go to www.ohelfamily.org/careers to apply! Fast-paced office in the 5 Towns seeking talented, professional, highlymotivated individuals to join our Sales team. Must be detail oriented, and thrive in a collaborative environment. Please submit qualified resume to admin@getpeyd.com

TEACHER & ASSISTANTS: Immediate opening in elementary school due to expansion. Experience necessary. Call 718-887-6030 EXPERIENCED REAL ESTATE SALES AGENT needed for a HIGH Producing real estate office who is seeking an opportunity to Earn & Learn more!!! Call Today (516) 295-3000 x 128. All calls kept confidential. Playgroup (children ages 2 ½ -4 years) looking for a warm loving assistant in a heimishe environment. Call 516-371-6848

PART TIME AND FULL TIME BOOKKEEPING POSITION Fast growing accounting and consulting firm seeks a qualified individual to assist our accounting staff in providing bookkeeping services for our clients. Qualified individuals will have the opportunity to join our employee friendly culture At least 2 years working experience Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, QuickBooks a MUST Email – info@smallbizoutsource.com GREAT OPPORTUNITY Looking for class B CDL DRIVER with clutch for a heimishe lumber co. Great pay, Call: 718-369-3141 Ext. 348 Due to engagement, Torah Academy for Girls is seeking qualified experienced, 6th grade Limudei Kodesh morah. Please fax resume 718-868-4612 att: Morah Drillman.

CLERICAL POSITION F/T FOR QUEENS OFFICE Proper candidate will have: good computer skills, ability to multitask and office experience. Prior early intervention experience a plus. Will Train. Competitive comp. pkg. Fax Resume 718-261-3702 Att. Bella Or email: cara.challenge2@thejnet.com SECRETARY Real Estate Management office in Boro Pk is seeking a F/T Secretary with gd phone manner, able to multi task & have computer knowledge. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Pls email resume to REALTY@CGMAIL.NET (Pls enter resume in subject) or fax to 718-851-3511

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The Jewish Home | JANUARY 21, 2016

Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 HELP WANTED

SITUATION WANTED

REAL ESTATE MANAGER R.E. Management Co. in Bklyn seeking capable & hard working individual . No experience necessary. Pls email resume to REALTY@CGMAIL.NET (Pls enter resume in subject) or fax to 718-851-3511

LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE seeks position in homecare with the elderly or pediatric care. I am skilled, caring and dependable. Please call me at 631-759-0025

EXPERIENCED REAL ESTATE SALES AGENT needed for a HIGH Producing real estate office who is seeking an opportunity to Earn & Learn more!!! Call Today (516) 295-3000 x 128. All calls kept confidential. Local F.T. Accounting Office Seeks P/T JR. ACCOUNTANT proficient in Q.B. knowledge of payroll tax, sales tax, business tax and individual taxes Qualified applicants should please e-mail resume to: 5towntaxoffice@gmail.com CATAPULT LEARNING Teachers for Title I in Boro Park andWilliamsburg Chassidic boys schools *College/Yeshiva Degree Required *Strong desire to help children learn *Excellent organizational skills *Small group instruction *Competitive salary Email resume: nyteachers@catapultlearning.com. Fax (718) 381-3493 Dry cleaner looking to hire EXPERT SEAMSTRESS / TAILOR to work in dry cleaning store asap. Main Street (Queens) location. Established clientele. Generous compensation split and opportunity to make extra money. Set your own hours. If interested please call Marc 917-612-2300 Physical Therapist Assistants (PTA’s) & Occupational Therapists Assistants (COTA’s)For 200+ bed Nursing Home in Queens. Must have Hospital or Nursing Home experience. Please email resume to promrehab@aol.com

FRUM BABYSITTER AVAILABLE with Long Hours My place, Excellent references, long hours. Also available in the evenings Part time or full time. All ages. TLC 516-314-1588

MISC

Life CAPTURE

I M A G E S LTD PHOTOGRAPHY I VIDEO

GABRIEL SOLOMON

GABE@LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM 516.499.9620 WWW.LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM

SHIDDUCH DATING? NEED PLACES TO GO? Check out Pegishaplace.com Tutors desperately needed for Zichron Etel, a gemach providing free tutoring to those who cannot afford it. Now in Brooklyn and the Five Towns! Kindly visit our website at www.zichronetel.com Yehalomim Shelanu Special Programming presents an after school program for the special children of our neighborhood! Every Monday afternoon from 4:45- 6:15 Fun & educational run by talented and experienced staff. Call 516-732-2949 for more info or to register

TJH Classifieds Post your Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services, Miscellaneous Ads here. Weekly Classifed Ads Up to 5 lines and/or 25 words 1 week ................ $20 $10 2 weeks .............. $35 $17.50 4 weeks .............. $60 $30 Email ads to: classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com Include valid credit card info

Deadline Monday 5:00pm

• Leibedik One Man Band/Singer • DJ with DANCE MOTIVATORS • Projector/Screen Rentals • Full Orchestra • Karaoke • Shabbos Ruach A Capella Singers

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Your

Money

Golf Course Owners Go for the Green By Allan Rolnick, CPA

olf courses may be some of the most beautiful manmade environments on earth. Millions of Americans actually hate the game itself, but tolerate topping their drives, shanking their wedges, and losing $2 Nassau bets by missing three-foot putts just because they get to do it all on a golf course. But while most of us can appreciate the serene beauty of the links, that lush green doesn’t always translate into financial gold. (As Rodney Dangerfield famously said, golf courses and cemeteries are the two biggest wastes of prime real estate.) A “conservation easement” is a gift of a partial interest in real estate to a publicly-supported charity or government. If you own a historic building, for example, you might donate the right to make changes to the facade, to keep its historic character. If you own a farm at the edge of town, you might donate development rights to keep the space green. In 2012, 1,114 taxpayers claimed conservation easement deductions. That might not sound like a lot, but the average amount claimed was $872,250. So we’re talking real money here — and the IRS is paying attention and cracking down on inflated appraisals. Golf course owners love to save

some green as much the next guy, so of course they’ve worked to hop on the conservation easement bandwagon. In 2009, the owners of Kiva Dunes, on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, won a Tax Court case letting them deduct $28.7 million for limiting their property’s use to a golf course, park, or farm. In that dispute, the Court took the “conservation” aspects for granted, and focused solely on the value

systems of the properties, located in the Cape Fear Arch “biodiversity hotspot” and the Boiling Springs Lake Wetland Complex. Both properties provide travel corridors for the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker (although there have been no reports of actual sightings of the elusive bird), and the 2005 easement area houses the “significantly rare” Eastern Fox Squirrel.

Golf course owners love to save some green as much the next guy, so of course they’ve worked to hop on the conservation easement bandwagon. of that gift. But sometimes the Court takes a closer look at the validity of the gift itself — which brings us to this week’s story. Back in 2003 and 2005, the operators of St. James Plantation, a pair of North Carolina courses, deducted nearly $7.9 million for easements on their properties, located in exclusive gated communities. They claimed the gifts would help preserve fish, wildlife, plants, and the overall eco-

But (and there’s always a “but,” or there wouldn’t be much of story), the easements also let the owners keep operating their golf courses. That means digging sand traps, maintaining cart paths, removing trees, and building rain shelters, restrooms, and food concession stands. It also means assaulting the turf to within an inch of its life with herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, and other chemicals, “in such manner as the

owner deems appropriate” as long as they follow “the best environmental practices then prevailing in the golf industry.” And of course the courses are surrounded by the usual instant mansions that developers love to crank out wherever they can drive up prices for fairway views. The IRS teed off on the operators’ deduction, which set up a playoff in Tax Court. Last month, it came to the fore when Judge Thomas Wells issued a 60-page opinion ruling that the properties didn’t qualify as “significantly relatively natural habitat.” That means, unfortunately for our golf course operators, their greens aren’t green enough. The Judge’s ruling is also likely to mean bad news for other golf courses waiting for rulings on their proposed deductions. Smart tax planning may not necessarily score a hole in one. But it’s still your best bet to stop giving the IRS too much of your hard-earned green. Make sure you have a plan and see if you can put your next golf vacation on the IRS!

Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 yea rs in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.

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FIGHTING ILLNESS WITH LOVE IS MORE THAN A SLOGAN. IT’S WHAT WE DO. When Jake was diagnosed, getting him better and keeping their family functioning became his parents’ only priorities. So they became Chai Lifeline’s priority as well.

We Care For 4,300 Children and Families Around the World. And One Jake Katz. Jake’s parents breathed easier in the cradle of Chai Lifeline’s hospital support: hot kosher meals that nourished bodies and souls, transportation assistance and the support of caring volunteers. His brothers benefited from the attention of Big Brothers and i-Shine after school activities. And the whole family thrived during retreats, recreational activities and our new Family Camp Adventure. Two summers at Camp Simcha have given Jake the confidence he needs to face painful treatments, and the friends who will help see him through them. Chai Lifeline took care of the entire Katz family, so they could take care of Jake.

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Photo for illustrative purposes only.

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Life C ach

Can We Still Feel Joy? By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS

aybe this week is not the week for a lighthearted article. I have heard of such sadness and tragedies among the young community. Our hearts hurt for those who are most connected and affected by these tragedies. We can so deeply feel their pain. We all have loved ones and know how valued they are to us.

The sad truth is somewhere in the world this is happening every day. How could we ever be lighthearted? The greatest guide for this is the precept: serve G-d with joy, Ivdu et Hashem b’simcha. Find in each day a way to serve G-d with simcha. B’simcha has the same letters as machshava, thought. We must find a way to think this

through and see how we can connect in our lives and find positivity even with heart wrenching events. We are not people who know why things happen as they do in this world. We all face many challenges of different intensities and proportions at different times. Don’t think how others can know my pain, because no one really knows what others have in their lives or their past or future. Some people have public sorrows; some have private ones. We are never here to judge others or compare to them. Just inspire others, be inspired by them, and support others. When we work on ourselves to bring joy and positivity in to this world we are emulating the best people and are giving the best of ourselves to others. Some people have a more natural capacity for this than others. The smile you give away is not used up – ever! The time you give to others is a truly worthwhile use of your time. And the laughter you evoke from people who need to feel there is levity in this world is a stronger medicine than any unearthed by science to date. We all must have the capacity to feel for others, to cry with others when sadness or tragedy hits. But never forget we all must learn to bring joy and laughter back to others when they cannot find it themselves. We must continually develop our capacity to enjoy for

others and with them when happiness does come their way.

And the laughter you evoke from people who need to feel there is levity in this world is a stronger medicine than any unearthed by science to date.

Ultimately, we need to pray that those who are smashed with sorrow, sickness or tragedy will find solace, guidance and personal strength to make it through the toughest of times and have the capacity to find a machshava, a way of thinking and seeing things that helps them survive the toughest of times and find a space for joy in their lives again.

Rivki Rosenwald is a certified relationship counselor, and career and life coach. She can be contacted at 917-7052004 or rivki@rosenwalds.com

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JANUARY 21, 2016 | The Jewish Home