August 24, 2017
Distributed weekly in the Five Towns, Long Island, Queens & Brooklyn
Your Favorite Five Towns Family Newspaper
UNDER SCRUTINY Pages 7, 9, 10, 11, 13 & 79
Around the
Community
38
Netanyahu and His Government in Balance pg
64
Gourmet Glatt and the Village of Cedarhurst’s Night of Jewish Music
Your Child & Healthy Eating
41 Yeshiva of South Shore Annual Concert on the Lawn
pg
33
Annual Holliswood/Jamaica Estates Community BBQ for Queens Hatzalah This Week We’re Talking to...
Back for a 4th Year !
MY JOURNEY THROUGH GRIEF An open letter to my beautiful daughter, Raizy, a”h, on her second yahrtzeit pg Page 53
42 Machaneh Hakayitz
E
E
SE
G PA
16
46
72
2
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
HUVYSGALLERY.COM
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
3
4
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
HALB
ישיבת לב
5
6
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dear Readers,
T
and so special and so delicious. We’re holding the baby as we brush another child’s hair and review Chumash homework with a third. We say Shema with one while we brush the teeth of another. Are we stopping to admire the way the baby’s new tooth is growing in and the tilt of his smile and the waves of hair springing from his head? Or are we just holding him so he’ll remain calm during the busy bedtime procession? Do we smile at the way one child takes care of another, soothing his boo-boos and reading him books? Do we appreciate how one child is so responsible with their homework and their belongings, putting their clothes in the hamper and making their bed so neatly? Each one of our children has so many wonderful attributes in their little hearts. And every day we are privy to their goodness. The days between camp and school offer us so many opportunities to spend time with our children and delight in their charming ways. If we can “stop and stare,” slow down and focus, we will be able to see so much in our little ones. And if we take the time now we will never regret missing out on key moments in the future.
his week, on Monday, millions of Americans put on dorky glasses and stood with their heads tilted, facing the sun. The solar eclipse was a sight to see, an event that takes place every few years. The media was hyping up the phenomenon, although perhaps it wasn’t hype – it was a fascination with being able to see something so rare that it will only take place a few times in our lifetimes. We stopped and stared. It was as if the “laws of nature” suspended themselves, even though it was a natural occurrence of the moon’s, sun’s and Earth’s alignments. I was able to dash out in middle of work to see a glimpse of the sun. I say “dash” because I only was at the “viewing party” on my block for a few minutes before I had to head back to work. And later that day I felt regret. Why didn’t I stay longer? The next solar eclipse in the United States will take place in seven years, and I only had a few minutes to stop and stare? It made me think about how we sometimes miss out on seminal moments in life because we are just too busy to “stop and stare.” Kids grow up all too fast. And sometimes in the fast-paced, busy lives that we lead we don’t take the time to focus on the little things that make them so unique
Wishing you a wonderful week, Shoshana
Yitzy Halpern PUBLISHER
publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Yosef Feinerman MANAGING EDITOR
ads@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Shoshana Soroka EDITOR
editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Nate Davis Editorial Assistant Nechama Wein Copy Editor Berish Edelman Mati Jacobovits Brocha Rubinstein Design & Production Gabe Solomon Distribution & Logistics P.O. BOX 266 Lawrence, NY 11559 Phone | 516-734-0858 Fax | 516-734-0857 Classifieds: Deadline Mondays 5PM classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com text 443-929-4003 The Jewish Home is an independent weekly magazine. Opinions expressed by writers are not neces sarily the opinions of the publisher or editor. The Jewish Home is not responsible for typographical errors, or for the kashrus of any product or business advertised within. The Jewish Home contains words of Torah. Please treat accordingly.
Shabbos Zemanim
Weekly Weather | August 25 – August 31
Friday, August 25 Parshas Shoftim 25
26
27
28
29
30
31
Mostly Sunny
Sunny
Mostly Sunny
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
Partly Cloudy
78° 62°
77° 63°
76° 64°
74° 65°
74° 65°
76° 64°
77° 66°
Candle Lighting: 7:19 pm Shabbos Ends: 8:19 pm Rabbeinu Tam: 8:49 pm
Sponsored by
eretzhachaim.org
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
7
8
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
8
COMMUNITY 8
Readers’ Poll Community Happenings
33
This Week We’re Talking to...Machaneh Hakayitz
42
My Journey through Grief by Lisa Kessler Rosenblatt
48
NEWS
72
Global
13
National
24
Odd-but-True Stories
30
ISRAEL Israel News
20
My Israel Home: Park Hamesila
62
Under Scrutiny: Netanyahu and His Government in Balance
64
PEOPLE Drones Taking Over the Skies by Avi Heiligman
86
PARSHA Rabbi Wein
52
The Best Kiruv Tool by Rav Moshe Weinberger
54
JEWISH THOUGHT A Pashuter Yid by Eytan Kobre
56
Climate Control by Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
58
Elul: The Time for Closeness by Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller
60
HEALTH & FITNESS Your Child & Healthy Eating by Tzivie Pill
72
Diabetes is More than Just a Sugar Problem by Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN
74
Helping Our Children Succeed by Dr. Hylton I. Lightman
76
Dear Editor, There is so much talk about statues and street names and past leaders of our country. But I have to say I agree with President Trump when he says that by pulling down these statues and changing these street names we are attempting to change our history. Yes, some of America’s history was ugly. We were not too nice to the Native Americans when Christopher Columbus came to our shores. We were not too nice to the blacks when we used them as slaves. We were not too nice to the Japanese people when we interred them during World War II. But to try to erase our past would do an injustice to the strides we’ve made in the past hundreds of years. Our nation has a history of ups and downs; triumphs and defeats. But we’ve weathered it through. Should we not ever talk about the Civil War? Forget about slavery for a minute. Should we not talk about it because it was a dark time in our history, when our nation was threatened to be torn apart? No, that’s who we were and we’ve become stronger because of our struggles. I also agree with President Trump when he pointed out when we become so politically correct it never ends.
Will Washington be next? He’s right. There are already people – individuals – who are hungering to erase Washington and Thomas Jefferson from our nation’s history. Are they funny or something? Every president is a person. They are not infallible, so there will always be something less than perfect about them. If we look at each president with a magnifying glass, no one will pass our scrutiny. And where will we be left? Devoid of history, role models – and our triumphs and defeats. Sincerely, Adam Heller Dear Editor, I find such inspiration in Rabbi Weinberger’s, shlita, every week. Thank you for publishing them. It is a tremendous service to our community. Gail L. Dear Editor, Last week a reader wrote in with the criticism that our community shouldn’t be calling dating men and women “boys” and “girls.” While I hear her point, many people who are starting to date are young and Continued on page 14
FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Lachmajin
77
LIFESTYLES Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer 68 Mann, LCSW
58
Your Money
93
Did You Ever Ask Yourself? by Rivki D. 94 Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
HUMOR Centerfold
50
Falafel Follies by Jon Kranz
84
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes
78
Does a Permanent Treaty with North Korea Make Sense? by David Ignatius 82 CLASSIFIEDS
88
Did you watch this week’s solar eclipse?
62
%
YES
38
%
NO
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
9
10
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Sale Dates: August 27th - September 1st 2017
Weekly Post 12 oz Alpha Bits; 12.5 oz Honey Comb; 11.5 oz Waffle Crisp; 14.75 oz Golden Crisp; 11 oz Cocoa or Fruity Pebbles 2/$
Scottie Tissues
Green Giant Corn, Green Bartenura Balsamic Beans or Sweet Peas Vinegar
120 Count
99¢
5
Whole Kernal or Creamed Corn; Cut or Kitchen Sliced Beans 14.5 oz - 15.25 oz
5
5/$
......................................................
Domino Sugar
.................................................
4 lb Bag
49
5
2/$
Kellogg’s 12 oz Crispix; 15 oz Frosted Flakes; 18.7 oz Raisin Bran
.................................................
5
299
$
Item #
104-400 104-404 104-406
®
5
Spaghetti, Elbows, Ziti, Ziti Rigati, Penne Rigati, Rigatoni, Medium Shells 16 oz 4/$ ......................................................
.................................................
Coke, Fresca, Sprite, Dr. Pepper
Tel: (516) 496 7400 Fax: (516) 496 8811
13 oz
279
$
849
Lieber’s Animal Cookies
249
$
UPC
.................................................
Bark Thins
Reynold’s Aluminum Foil
794711005569 794711005576 794711005606
Assorted - 4.7 oz
sales@galilco.com www.galilco.com
Assorted - 8.94 oz
$
5
120 Eileen Way Syosset, NY 11791
Nature’s Valley Granola Bars
Salted or Unsalted 20 oz
2 Liter
16 Count
.................................................
Pack 12/23 oz 12/23 oz 6/4 lb
.................................................
Gourmet Glatt Fresh Dry Roasted Pistachios
5
Product Name
Pickled Cucumbers in Brine Large 7-9 Pickled Cucumbers in Brine Mini 18-25 Pickled Cucumbers in Brine 30-36
10 full line!
2/$
Ronzoni Pasta
.................................................
99¢
23 oz
Entenmann’s 3/$
Original or Natural 46 oz/48 oz
......................................................
.................................................
Flavor Ice - Ice Pops
Pri Avot 18-25 Cucumbers in Brine
.................................................
Mott’s Applesauce
2/$
5
4/$
599
$
A delicious side to every meal, Pri Avot Pickled Cucumbers are crunchy and delicious! The highest quality pickles are hand-selected, pickled in brine for that authentic middle-eastern taste. Perfect in appetizers, sandwiches, sides and more!
Apple, Fruit Punch, Very Berry 6.75 oz X 8 Pack
......................................................
Whole, Diced, Crushed, Sauce, Puree - 28 oz/29 oz
PICKLED CUCUMBERS
.................................................
Apple & Eve Brick Pack Juice
2
$
Hunt’s Tomatoes
17 oz
299
$
200 Square Feet
799
$
.................................................
.................................................
Pepperidge Farms 10 Pack Milano or 8 Pack Chessmen Cookies $ 99
PopCorners All Flavors - 5 oz
5
4/$
4
4/$
HEALTHY CHOICE SCHOOL SNACKS!
Fruigees Organic Fruit Snack Assorted 4 Pack
Nature’s Bandits Fruit/Veggie Stix Assorted 1 oz
Farmland Milk
Cruncha Ma-Me Edamame Snack Assorted .7 oz
Turkey Hill Iced Tea
Assorted - 64 oz
1
$ 69
Assorted 64 oz
...................................................... Friendship Cottage Cheese Assorted - 16 oz
3
2/$
.......................................
Sonny & Joe’s Dips
4
Assorted - 7 oz
2/$
...................................................... Miller’s Shredded Cheese
4
2/$
Friendship Sour Cream Assorted - 16 oz
Real Fruit Yo Yos Fruit Rolls Assorted .7 oz
My Dad’s Cookies Assorted 1.5 oz
Mehadrin Greek Yogurt
International Delight Coffee Creamer Assorted 32 oz
2/$
Assorted 5.3 oz
4/$
$
.......................................
.......................................
.......................................
Assorted - 6 oz
8 oz
3
Norman’s Lite 80 Calorie Yogurts
79¢
299
5
Givat Whipped Cream Cheese
Ha’olam Regular or Sandwich-Style Muenster
299
$
Mozzarella, Regular Pizza, Cheddar, Fancy - 8 oz 2/$
Except Reduced Fat - 6 oz
269
$
5
Yasso Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars
Edy’s Ice Cream Assorted - 48oz
299
$
Broadway’s J2 Pizza Original Only - 36 oz
799
$
...................................................... Fresh & Frozen Gefilte Fish 20 oz
449
$
NOW 2 locations!
Cedarhurst STORE HOURS
137 Spruce Street
Assorted - 14 oz - 16 oz
5
Halo Top Ice Cream Assorted - 16 oz
349
Spring Valley H’ors D’oeuvres 40 Count
2/$
$
.......................................
.......................................
.......................................
.......................................
20 oz
32 oz
Assorted - 56 oz
Assorted 24 oz - 29 oz
Assorted - 14 oz
......................................................
Eggo Pancakes
3
$
99
Mom’s Chicken Nuggets
899
$
(516) 569-2662
SUN -TUE: 7 AM-9 PM WED: 7 AM-11 PM THURS: 7 AM-12 AM FRIDAY 6:30 AM-2 HRS. BEFORE CANDLE LIGHTING
Abe’s Parvelicious Ice Cream
699
$
Woodmere STORE HOURS
1099
$
Kineret Onion Rings Ta’amti Bourekas
2
$
99
499
$
1030 Railroad Avenue
(516) 295-6901
SUN - THURS: 7 AM-9 PM FRIDAY 7 AM UNTIL 2 HRS. BEFORE CANDLE LIGHTING
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Sale Dates: August 27th - September 1st 2017
Specials
BONELESS FILLET STEAK
EXTRA LEAN BEEF STEW $ 99 5 lb. CHULENT MEAT Family Pack
999 lb.
$
Family Pack
999 lb.
Beef Large Kolichel
$
Shoulder London Broil
Solomon’s Navel $ 99 8 lb. Pastrami
................... ...................
1299 lb.
Minute Roast
$
................... Neck & Skirt
499 lb.
Ground Beef
$
Super Family Pack
149 lb.
849 lb.
$
Family Pack ...................
Shoulder Lamb Chops
lb.
6
1299 lb.
$
Turkey London Broil
$
Turkey Drumsticks
$
Ground White Chicken $499 lb.
699 lb.
................... ................... Untrimmed
Family Pack
seasoned ready to grill or broil!
Seasoned Chicken Kabobs Seasoned Chicken Sliders
399 lb.
$
Turkey Wings
$
169 lb.
799 lb.
$
849 lb.
$
Cello Onions
Butternut Squash
99¢ lb.
2/$3
69¢ lb.
Andy Boy Romaine Hearts
Slicing Tomatoes
Sliced Mushrooms
3 lb Bag
$
119 lb.
$
Chicken Bones
199 lb.
Chicken Cutlets
Super Family Pack ...................
New Jersey Kirbies
269 lb.
$
899 lb.
...................
79
Super Family Pack
Frozen Beef Patties $ 69 5 lb.
Holland Yellow Peppers
Italian Prunes
2
$
$
Baby Back Ribs
..................
SEASONED CHICKEN PATTIES $ 99 lb.
CHICKEN THIGHS
Paula Red Apples
Jumbo Red Peppers
99¢ lb.
$
2/$5
99¢ lb.
2/$3
Lemons & Limes
Holland Orange Peppers
Seedless Watermelon
Red & Green Grapes
String Beans
5/$2
$
59¢ lb.
$
new crop!
199 lb.
269 lb.
149 lb.
199 lb.
$
/ Chicken Meatballs in Mushroom Sauce $ 99 lb.
Hot 18” Pizza $ 49
Pulled Brisket Eggrolls $ 99 ea.
Pull-Apart Cheese Bobka $ 99
24 VARIETIES!
14
6
Chicken Sliders with 3 Side Dishes $ 99
9
13
3
order your shabbos platters early! Roll $ 95 495 Hand Salmon or Tuna 8
Mango $ Avocado Roll
......................................................
Alaska Roll
595
$
Tuna $ Avocado Roll
Salmon Steaks $ 29 lb.
All Fish Steam Bags $ 99 ea.
8
6
we now have assorted fresh hot bagels!
6
8
Spray Roses Bouquet
16 & up
$
99
Roses! Roses! Roses!
1299 $ 1699 $ 1999 $
gourmetglattonline.com
Italian Bread Plain or Seeded
1
$ 49 ea.
1
Sushi Boat Roll
$
1695
order your fish & salad platter for shalosh suda!
7
Diet Chocolate or Cinnamon Bobka Mini Turnovers Small White Bread Assorted $ 99 ea. $ 99 lb. $ 49ea.
$
......................................................
650
Breaded Tilapia $ 49 lb.
1095
Kawasaki Roll
Diet Ratatouille Salad improved!
largest variety of homemade dips! $499lb. Green Pepper Dip
299ea. new!
$
Mushroom Dip
299ea.
$
Fancy Rose Bouquets
Diet Corn Salad
449ea.
$
2499& up
$
/gourmetglatt
Diet Pizza la Zucchini
Tilapia Burger
549lb. low carb!
$
5 Section Platter Just $32.99!
wow!
3
$
99 ea.
We reserve the right to limit quantities. No rain checks. Not responsible for typographical errors.
11
12
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Continued from page 10
the terms “men” and “women” may seems a little too mature for them. In fact, if you tell a 19-year-old “girl” right out of seminary that she is going to be a set up with a 24-year-old “man” it may seem a bit overwhelming for her. Many of these young couples marry and mature together. In a few years they will grow together into married “men” and “women.” So for at least a subset of dating people in our community, I think that “boys” and “girls” are a better term to use for them. Sari Kalman Dear Editor, It was interesting to read Mr. Kobre’s article this week (“Compassion Revisited,” August 17, 2017). The Nazis were known for their compassion
towards animals. And yet, when it came to humans, they were sadistic, cruel and vicious. Misplaced compassion can be a very dangerous thing. Avi Katz
IMPORTANT NOTICE Please be aware that the eruv does not extend onto the boardwalk in Far Rockaway. Please do not carry or push carriages on the Far Rockaway Boardwalk on Shabbos.
YOUR VOICE COUNTS!
Join TJH’s weekly poll Email editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com Put “include me in the poll” in the subject line
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
The Week In News
Terror in Barcelona
Spain is still reeling from the terror attacks that left 14 people dead and many injured last week when two back-to-back attacks were perpetrated against civilians. On Thursday, a van plowed into a pedestrian promenade in a busy section of Barcelona, killing 13 and injuring close to 100. Several hours later police shot and killed five people wearing fake bomb belts who staged a deadly car attack in a seaside resort in Spain’s Catalonia region in the early hours of Friday. Another three suspects were arrested. The main suspect, the driver of the van, was identified as Younes Abouyaaqoub, 22. He was the driver of the van who mowed into the crowd. Police say he was seen on video footage walking through the market district after the attack. He then hijacked a car and drove through a police checkpoint, killing the driver and leaving his body in the backseat. The terrorist is thought to have crossed into France. In the second attack, one woman died from her injuries, five others were injured. Cambrils Mayor Cami Mendoza said the town had taken serious precautions after news of the Barcelona attack broke, but that the suspects strategically planned the attack on the narrow path to the boardwalk, which is usually packed with locals and tourists late into the evening. “We were on a terrace, like many others,” said eyewitness Jose Antonio Saez. “We heard the crash and intense gun shots, then the dead bodies on the floor, shot by the po-
lice. They had what looked like explosive belts on.” “It was clearly a terror attack, intended to kill as many people as possible,” Josep Lluis Trapero, a senior police official for Spain’s Catalonia region, said late Thursday. The Islamic State group said in a statement on its Aamaq news agency that the attack was carried out by “soldiers of the Islamic State” in response to the extremist group’s calls for followers to target countries participating in the coalition trying to drive it from Syria and Iraq. Surprisingly, by Friday, Las Ramblas, the promenade in Barcelona, was reopened to the public. King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy joined thousands of residents and visitors in observing a minute of silence in the city’s main square. “I am not afraid! I am not afraid!” the crowd chanted in unison. At a news conference on Monday, officials also revealed there were “strong indications” that an imam suspected of radicalizing the young men who carried out the attacks had died in an explosion at a house in Alcanar, south of Barcelona, on Wednesday that was being used as a bomb factory. Imam Es Satty had spent time in prison and met the prisoners involved with the 2004 Madrid train bombings. He had also stayed in Belgium for some three months last year, where he had been searching for work, including in Vilvoorde, a small town of just 42,000 from which more than 20 jihadists departed for Syria in 2014. The victims who were killed by the terrorists ranged in age and nationality. Among the victims was Javier Martinez, who was only three-yearsold, who was killed with his relative, Francisco Lopez Rodriguez, 57. They were both from Spain. A grandmother and granddaughter from Portugal were killed while celebrating the grandmother’s birthday. Carmen Lopardo from Italy was the oldest person killed in the attack. She was 80-years-old. Jared Tucker, who was 42-yearsold, is the only victim from the United States. He and his wife were ending their European vacation in Barcelona after visiting Paris and Venice, and were on their way to a beach when they decided to stop at a cafe on La Rambla. Tucker’s father, Daniel Tucker, said the couple had saved for the vacation to celebrate their one year wedding anniversary and had sent joyful pictures, the last of which arrived a day before the
13
14
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
tragedy. Jared Tucker, who worked with his father in a family business remodeling swimming pools, had “a magnetic personality and people loved him,” his father said. He liked to fish, play golf and other sports, and he was deeply connected to his wife, a schoolteacher. This is the first extremist attack in Spain in over a decade. In 2004, al-Qaeda-inspired bombers killed 192 people in coordinated assaults on Madrid’s commuter trains. On Monday, Spanish television said that Spain’s bomb squad was using a robot to get close to a man shot by police who was wearing what appeared to be a suicide belt. Police say he was the suspect at large, Younes Abouyaaqoub, who was missing since the attack.
Ousted Venezuelan Prosecutor Flees to Colombia
On Friday, Venezuela’s former chief prosecutor, Luisa Ortega, arrived in Colombia with her husband after the couple fled the country. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos offered asylum to Ortega after she loudly broke with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s increasingly authoritarian government. Since her protests, Venezuelan authorities ordered the arrest of her husband, German Ferrer, alleging that he ran an extortion ring out of the prosecutor’s office. Ortega has insisted that the accusations against her husband were payback against them for breaking with the Maduro regime. On Monday, Santos said that Ortega is being protected by Colombian authorities and that if she chooses to request asylum he will grant it. In June, the Supreme Tribunal banned Ortega from leaving the country, ordered her bank accounts frozen, and put her on trial for alleged
professional malpractice. On Friday, Ortega surfaced briefly from hiding to address a gathering of Latin America’s prosecutors in Mexico by phone. Ortega told the region’s prosecutors that Maduro removed her in order to stop a probe linking him and his inner circle to nearly $100M in bribes from Brazilian construction company Odebrecht. The company last year admitted in a plea agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice to paying bribes to officials throughout Latin America in exchange for lucrative contracts. Ortega denounced the government takeover of the prosecutor’s offices and said many of her colleagues have faced persecution. “Many have had to leave the country for fear of reprisal and for their lives,” she said. Ortega first spoke out against Maduro in late March following a Supreme Tribunal decision to nullify the opposition-controlled congress, the National Assembly. She denounced the decision as a “rupture” of the constitutional order. The decision was later reversed amid widespread international criticism, but prompted a protest movement that has left more than 120 dead. Earlier on Friday, the newly elected Constituent Assembly approved a decree giving it the authority to pass legislation, virtually nullifying the powers of the National Assembly. The move prompted further international condemnation from the dozens of countries that have already criticized the creation of the all-powerful assembly as an undemocratic power grab by Maduro.
Wearing a Hijab– to Make a Point
An Australian senator showed up to Parliament on Thursday in a full Muslim burqa. Pauline Hanson is not Muslim; her goal was to make a
15
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
CHANUKAH
1346 39th St. Brooklyn, NY 11218 718.436.0303 leiterssukkah.com Lawrence Hardware (Stop & Shop Shopping Center)
589 Burnside Ave. Inwood, NY 11096 516.371.2900
16
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
point. She is a supporter of the campaign to ban Islamic face coverings nationally. Hanson, leader of the anti-Muslim, anti-immigration One Nation minor party, showed up with her face covered for over 10 minutes before removing the garment and presenting her case. She explained, “There has been a large majority of Australians (who) wish to see the banning of the burqa.” Many of her fellow senators objected, and her ploy was not received well by fellow politicians. Attorney-General George Brandis said his government would not ban the burqa, and reprimanded Hanson for what he described as a “stunt” that offended Australia’s Muslim minority. “To ridicule that community, to drive it into a corner, to mock its religious garments is an appalling thing to do and I would ask you to reflect on what you have done,” Brandis chided. Opposition Senate Leader Penny Wong told Hanson, “It is one thing to wear religious dress as a sincere act of faith; it is another to wear it as a stunt here in the Senate.” Sam Dastyari, an opposition
senator and an Iranian-born Muslim, said, “We have seen the stunt of all stunts in this chamber by Sen. Hanson.” He added, “The close to 500,000 Muslim Australians do not deserve to be targeted, do not deserve to be marginalized, do not deserve to be ridiculed, do not deserve to have their faith made some political point by the desperate leader of a desperate political party.” In 2014, the Parliament House briefly segregated women wearing burqas and niqabs. The department that runs Parliament House said that “persons with facial coverings” would no longer be allowed in the building’s open public galleries. The “burqa ban” was widely condemned and regarded as an anti-discrimination law. Shortly after, lawmakers rescinded the ban. However, upon entering the Parliament House, visitors need to remove the face covering momentarily while security officials can confirm identities. It is believed that the short-lived ban was a result of mounting concern that terrorists dressed in burqas could carry out attacks.
presents
CALL 516.692.8000 FOR ALL YOUR CATERING NEEDS
CREST HOLLOW COUNTRY CLUB’S EXCLUSIVE KOSHER CATERERS CERTIFIED AND ENDORSED BY THE OU
Emojis are Bad for Business
Ditch the emojis. A study conducted in Ben-Gurion University, together with Amsterdam University, has concluded that emojis are bad for you, no matter how friendly they appear. They are specifically bad in a professional setting. The study, published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science, reveals that including an emoticon, even in a positive way, may make you appear less professional. A smile emoji cannot be compared to a real, natural and genuine smile. In the real world a warm smile can actually promote trust and friendship in the workplace. But emojis actually pro-
mote the opposite. This study was conducted with a wide range of nationalities; the 549 participants were from 29 different countries. The method used was to show similar emails, some with emojis and others without. Then participants were asked to evaluate and rate the sender on their “competence” and “warmth.” According to the study, using emojis in emails decreased the perceived competency of the sender and did not affect the perceived warmth from the person who sent the email. In other words, using an emoji made the person seem less competent. And a smiley face in an email didn’t make the receiver feel any more warmth towards the sender. “People tend to assume that a smiley is a virtual smile, but the findings of this study show that in the case of the workplace, at least as far as initial ‘encounters’ are concerned, this is incorrect,” said Dr. Ella Glikson, a professor involved in the study. “For now, at least, a smiley can only replace a smile when you already know the other person.”
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Terror in Finland
The streets of Finland were the site of terror last Friday when several people were stabbed in the Finnish city of Turku. Authorities confirmed that two were killed, both women. Another eight were wounded, six women and two men. Police shot the attacker, Abderrahman Mechkah, an 18-year-old Moroccan citizen who was seeking asylum, at the scene. Security forces wrote on Twitter that police were “looking for other possible perpetrators. They ask the population to leave and avoid central Turku.” “The government is following the situation in Turku closely and a police operation is underway,” tweeted Prime Minister Juha Sippila, ahead of a cabinet meeting. According to the media, the city
was pretty much on lockdown as authorities beefed up security at Helsinki airport and at train stations. “The act had been investigated as murder, but during the night we received additional information which indicates that the criminal offenses are now terrorist killings,” police said in a statement. “We think that the attacker especially targeted women, and the men were wounded after coming to the defense of the women,” superintendent Christa Granroth of Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation said. “One man was injured trying to help a victim and one man tried to stop the attacker,” Granroth said. One of those wounded in the attack was a British paramedic. Despite his wounds, Hassan Zubier attended a minute’s silence for the victims on Sunday at a makeshift memorial in Turku’s market square. He was still under hospital treatment for his stab wounds, but turned up in a wheelchair. “I am not a hero. I did what I was trained for. I did my best and more,” he said. He had gone to the aid of a woman who later died. Police say they have five people in custody in connection to the attack and are looking for a sixth suspect.
Turku, the former capital of Finland, is a hub for business and culture.
Uruguay: What to Do with Bronze Nazi Eagle
The government in Uruguay is polling religious and political leaders to determine what should be done with a huge Nazi bronze eagle that was discovered in 2006. The 800-pound eagle was found off the coast of Uruguay among the remains of the German battleship Admiral Graf Spee, which sank there at the beginning of WWII. The ship sank many Allied
17
merchant ships before it was damaged beyond repair by Australian and British forces on December 13, 1939. The captain of the ship was able to bring it close to shore and ordered it scuttled so the ship would not fall into enemy hands. Jorge Menendez, Uruguay’s Defense Minister, has said that he plans on talking to members of the four political parties to discuss the eagle and has already met with members of Uruguay’s Jewish Central Committee. “Our concern is that the eagle doesn’t generate a Nazi sanctuary in Uruguay that will draw Nazis from all over the region,” said Israel Buszkaniec, the committee’s president. “We’d have no problem if it’s sold and leaves the country.” A recovery team removed the eagle from the ship’s stern in 2006. It has been kept in a navy warehouse since then. The salvage team originally felt that they should be able to sell the piece but Uruguay’s Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that the eagle belongs to Uruguay. If the eagle is sold, though, the salvage team will receive 50 percent of all profits. As such, the head of the salvage company is pushing for the eagle to be sold, but some feel that it should be
18
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
put into a museum for all to view. Former President Julio Maria Sanguinetti suggested that the eagle should go on display in Uruguay because of its historical importance. “To imagine that, as some say, it could lead to a certain Nazi cult, is really absurd because it is actually the contrary: it’s a monument to their defeat,” he wrote.
British Jews: Many Want to Leave
Discoveries at Vilna Gaon’s Shul
Two mikvahs have been found by archaeologists under the Great Synagogue of Vilna, 70 years after it was destroyed in the Holocaust. The Lithuanian shul has been under excavation for the past couple of years since radar was used to locate the remains of the building in 2015. A team of experts from Israel, the U.S. and Lithuania have been slowly uncovering as much as they can from the remains of the shul which was burned by the Nazis in 1941. The burnt remains were later destroyed by the Soviets in the ‘50s and a school was built over the site in 1964. The shul, which was built in the 17th century, was home to the Vilna Gaon. Before its destruction, it was surrounded by many other buildings, including other shuls, a community council, kosher meat markets, a mikvah and the famous Strashun library. “Most of the historical descriptions of the Great Synagogue in Vilna and the community courtyard relate to the Great Synagogue and the surrounding prayer halls,” explained Dr. Jon Seligman of the Israel Antiquities Authority, who led the research team. “Until now, we have found little information about the bathhouse and mikvah building of the Jewish community, a community that comprised almost half of the city’s population.” “These discoveries add a new dimension to the understanding of the daily lives of the Jews of Vilna, and will certainly provide a new focus for understanding the lost cultural heritage of the Jewish community of Vilna,” the researchers said in a statement.
There is a sad and scary reality for Jews in Europe, as anti-Semitism and anti-Israel rhetoric is on the rise. The Jews of Britain feel the sentiment so strongly that 31% of Jews have considered emigrating in the last two years, according to research by the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism. That’s a 3% increase since 2015. A total of 3,411 British Jews participated in the survey between 2015 and 2017. Of those surveyed, 17% said they feel unwelcome in the UK, and 37% feel they need to hide their ethnicity in public. A staggering 65% of British Jews said the British government does not do enough to protect them, and only 39% felt confident anti-Semitic hate crime would be prosecuted. More than 80% feel that the Labour Party is too tolerant of anti-Semitism. The chairman of The Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn, is notoriously pro-Palestinian. There are about 454 synagogues in the country, including Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform affiliations. As of 2015, there were a reported 269,568 Jews living in Britain.
Assad: We Foiled West’s Plans
It’s been six years of fighting in Syria and now President Bashar al-Assad is taking an accounting on who his enemies and allies are. The
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
B R O O K LY N
LAKEWOOD
2
MONSEY
. DECADES .
A track record of INSPIRATION . GROWTH
SEMINARY PROGRAM
BA BS
BACHELOR OF ARTS: SOCIAL SCIENCES BACHELOR OF SCIENCE: BUSINESS NATURAL SCIENCES
SUCCESS
BSN BACHELOROF SCIENCE
NURSING
THE NEW SEMINARY.
DC DESIGN / 732.901.4784
REALCLASSES. REALEDUCATION. REALTRAINING. REALSUCCESS! LY APPW ! NO
Don’t compromise onyour Yiddishkeit OR Education
THE NEWSEMINARY. DO IT QUICK. DO IT RIGHT.
NY & NJ FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS APPLICATION PROCESS OPEN FOR
FALL 2017
NY & NJ FINANCIAL AID AND ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE N E W YO R K : 1492 EAST 12TH STREET, BROOKLYN, NY 11230 718.769.8160 f: 718.769.8640
THE New
Seminary asjv rbhnx
N E W J E R S E Y: 139 OCEAN AVENUE, LAKEWOOD, NJ 08701 732.366.3500 f: 732.367.8640
Rebbetzin Sora F. Bulka MENAHELES
Rabbi Yeshaya Levy MENAHEL
email: INFO@THENEWSEMINARY.ORG online: W W W.T H E N E WS E M I N A RY.O R G
19
20
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Syrian president gave a speech in Damascus last week in which he claimed to have foiled the West’s plans to topple his regime, but still has a long way to go before he can declare victory. “The price of resistance is much lower than the price of surrender… We paid a dear price in Syria in this war, but we managed to foil the Western project,” he told dozens of Syrian diplomats. Though he has claimed many victories against the West in the past, this time he spoke in general about the West and less about his specific country. “The West is in hysterics every time it feels there is a country that wants to share in the decision-making. The West won’t allow even Russia to rise against its hegemony, and this is the situation with Syria, Iran and North Korea as well.” The brutal dictator also praised the countries that have supported him in his campaign. When referring to Russia, Iran, and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Assad asserted that “their direct support – politically, economically and militarily –has made possible advances on the battlefield and reduced the losses and burdens of war.” Assad also condemned U.S.-mediated “safe zones” that the Trump administration has negotiated with Russia, saying such a plan serves to “give
cover to terrorists.” Israel was brought up as well. The Syrian president added that “Israel is still our enemy and still the occupier of our land, and we still support and will continue to support the resistance in the region – so long as it is a true resistance and not a false one.” Assad was probably referring to Hamas as the “false” resistance, after the Gaza terror group sided with the rebels trying to topple him.
Gazans Allowed to Leave Via Israel A policy that has been in place in Israel for the past year allows Gazans to leave through the Holy Land as long as they promise not to return by the same route. For the first time in 20 years, Israel is allowing Gazans to leave the country to Jordan through Israel in order to travel abroad on the condition that for the next 12
months they must return to Gaza through another country. The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt is closed for most of the year and the only way for residents to leave the Strip is usually through Israel. Palestinians are not allowed to fly out of Tel Aviv and there are no Palestinian airports so they generally fly out of Amman.
Prior to the new policy, the only Gazans allowed to leave through Israel were students traveling to higher education programs and special conferences, those who need medical treatment, or people traveling on humanitarian grounds (visiting a first-degree relative who is ailing or getting married). “As a rule, any resident of the Gaza Strip who wishes to enter Israel and the West Bank for the sake of going abroad for various personal pur-
poses, if he gives a written commitment not to return to the Gaza Strip via Israel and the West Bank for one year, his request will be approved, subject to an individual security clearance,” COGAT, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, which is the extension of the Defense Ministry that monitors and administers crossings from Gaza, said in announcing its new policy in February 2016. Since 1996, most Gazans have left the Strip via the Rafah crossing into Egypt. But starting in 2013, Egypt has kept the Rafah crossing mostly closed, opening it periodically for only a few days at a time. Last Monday Egypt allowed Gazans to exit through the Rafah crossing for the first time in five months. COGAT says that the security risks inherent in allowing Gazans to travel via Israel demanded that measures be taken to limit the risk. “Free movement between the Gaza Strip into Israel is not enabled, including to travel abroad” because Hamas, which COGAT called a “murderous terror organization,” “takes advantage of the entry of the Gaza Strip’s residents into Israel to carry out terror acts. “Despite this, and the fact the
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Gaza Strip’s residents do not have the given right to enter Israel,” COGAT added, “it was decided to enable their entrance to Israel in exceptional cases, including to travel abroad, under the condition that they will commit to not return to Gaza through Israel for a year at least. This condition was set due to the need to provide a solution for the security risks involved in the many and frequent entries to Israel.” For those that do not sign the commitment to not return via Israel for one year, a “conditional approval” is sent to the Palestinian Civil Committee with a letter saying that once the commitment is signed, the permit will be approved.
APPLY NOW for FALL!
ExperienceThe Touro Difference
Now in the Five Towns!
Terrorist Finally Deported CONTACT:
NEW! TOURO IN THE FIVE TOWNS FOR MEN
Meir Weiss
Start your college experience locally! Touro College is pleased to
←
Director of Enrollment Management admissions.fivetowns@touro.edu or call (718) 535-9347
Rasmea Odeh, convicted terrorist and murderer, was living in Chicago peacefully, ostensibly assisting women and children while she disseminated anti-Israel hate. The Palestinian terrorist never revealed to the U.S. that she was convicted of terrorism decades ago. On Thursday, after a lengthy court case, Odeh was deported. In court in Detroit she tried – at least three times – to voice her negative opinions regarding Israel and the U.S. before the judge interrupted her. “This is not a political forum for you to fan the flames of Israeli-Palestinian disputes. … It’s about the application you filled out,” said U.S. District Judge Gershwin Drain, who threatened to find her in contempt and send her to jail. Back in April Odeh pleaded guilty to concealing her criminal history when she entered the U.S. in 1994 and applied for citizenship a decade later. Had she revealed it at the time, she would have been barred from the country. Odeh, 70, is currently waiting to be deported by the government, probably to Jordan. She was convicted of two bombings in 1970. One of the attacks killed two men at a
21
LEARN MORE ONLINE AT LAS.TOURO.EDU/FIVETOWNS
welcome new students in the Five Towns and Far Rockaway communities to Mens’ Division evening classes. Beginning September 2017, select introductory courses will be taught in modern classrooms at Mesivta Ateres Yaakov, 131 Washington Avenue in Lawrence. Fall classes include Psychology, Management and Speech.
Touro is an equal opportunity institution. For Touro’s complete Non-Discrimination Statement, visit www.touro.edu
supermarket. In defense, she insisted that she was tortured by Israeli military into confessing. Odeh was released in 1979 as part of a swap with the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Until now, in Chicago, Odeh had been serving as the associate director of the Arab American Action Network, which provides social services and education. She was widely respected for her work with immigrants, especially Arab women, which her defense attorney Michael Deutsch mentioned in her case. “For
20 years, she lived here peacefully, honorably and gave more than many U.S. citizens,” said Deutsch who criticized prosecutors for filing charges. One hundred supporters traveled from Chicago to attend the court hearing. More than 1,000 people attended an event last weekend to honor Odeh. “I will raise my voice to say this: We have the right to struggle for our country,” she said of the Palestinian territories. Perhaps now, after being deported, she will be closer to “her country” that she longs so much for.
Bannon Boycotted Abbas Meeting
Now that Steve Bannon has left the White House, he’s a bit more vo-
22
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
venge: The war on Jared Kushner is about to go nuclear.” “He wants to beat their ideas into submission,” Breitbart News Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow told Vanity Fair. “Steve has a lot of things up his sleeve.” The next day, Breitbart’s leading story said that Ivanka and Jared helped push Bannon out of the White House because “his far-right views clashed with their Jewish faith.” But the White House adamantly denied the story, calling it “totally false.” Bannon’s departure capped one of the most chaotic weeks for the administration, a nod to members of Trump’s government and his Republican Party who have grown increasingly frustrated with the anti-establishment firebrand. But Bannon won’t be silent. In fact, as he said in an interview within hours of leaving the White House, “If there’s any confusion out there, let me clear it up: I’m leaving the White House and going to war for Trump against his opponents – on Capitol Hill, in the media, and in corporate America.”
WHAT DOES PEYD
DO?
WE HELP OUR CLIENTS OPTIMIZE AIRLINE MILES & CREDIT CARD POINTS, AND TURN THEIR EVERYDAY SPENDING INTO CASH AND TRAVEL BENEFITS. LET US DO THE SAME FOR YOU!
Israeli Institute 6th in the World
We are also a full service TRAVEL AGENCY, specializing in DISCOUNTED MILEAGE TICKETS and we can handle every aspect of your travel needs including AIRFARE, HOTELS, CAR RENTALS & AIRPORT VIP SERVICES. Our popular PAY WITH POINTS feature allows clients to pay for their reservations using Airline Miles and Credit Card Points.
CALL TODAY! 888.404.PEYD(7393) TRAVELWITHPEYD.COM | INFO@PEYDTRAVEL.COM
cal about his views. According to an article by Vanity Fair, Bannon tangled with Jared Kushner about multiple issues, particularly those pertaining to Israel. Bannon had aggressively lobbied Trump to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and wanted the president to be tougher on Mahmoud Abbas, moves reportedly opposed by Kushner. When PA Pesident Mahmoud Abbas met with Trump at the White
House in May, Bannon boycotted the meeting in protest. “I’m not going to breathe the same air as that terrorist,” he texted a friend at the time, according to the magazine. Charlottesville was another point of disagreement between Bannon and Kushner. Bannon was the only West Wing staffer to publicly support Trump’s comment that both sides were to blame for the violence. Kush-
ner and Ivanka Trump both publicly disagreed with the president. Faced with renewed pressures, Trump let Bannon go. After his White House gig, Bannon immediately returned to his previous job as editor of the ultra-conservative Breitbart News, where he declared war on Ivanka, Kushner and fellow “globalist” Gary Cohn. The Vanity Fair article was headlined: “Steve Bannon readies his re-
With approximately 2,500 scientists, postdoctoral fellows, Ph.D. and M.Sc. students, and scientific, technical, and administrative staff working at the Institute, The Weizmann Institute of Science in Rechovot has been named the top research institution in the world outside the U.S. Receiving the sixth-best overall in an international ranking, Weizmann President Professor Daniel Zajfman credited the school’s approach to research for the ranking, saying, “We recruit scientists who are among the best in the world and let them follow their curiosity. That is what leads, in the end, to innovative and surprising new applications that shape the future.” The very best research university in the world is Scripps Research Institute in San Diego, followed by
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
"THE WORLD IS ARTSCROLL'S CLASSROOM"
FROM
THIS MONUMENTAL PROJECT CONTINUES
WITH A TRANSLATION AND A NEW COMMENTARY ANTHOLOGIZED FROM RABBINIC LITERATURE
CHRONICLES
NEW ohnhv hrcs
ohnhv hrcs
CHRONICL ES
COMPLETE IN ONE VOLUME
Meet and understand the glorious dynasty of David HaMelech and his descendants in this fascinating new volume! Other Volumes Available in this Series
This new volume in Kesuvim includes:
RUBIN EDITION EARLY PROPHETS
MILSTEIN EDITION LATER PROPHETS
ARTSCROLL EDITION WRITINGS
Joshua/Judges — ohypua qgauvh
Isaiah — vhgah
I-II Samuel — c-t ktuna
Jeremiah — vhnrh
vhnjb wtrzg wkthbs Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah
I-II Kings — c-t ohfkn
rag hr, The Twelve Prophets
Mishlei — hkan Job — cuht
Ezekiel — ktezjh
The universally acclaimed ArtScroll translation A clear, broad-ranging, graceful commentary Newly typeset Hebrew commentaries of Rashi, Radak, and Metzudos
An absorbing New Overview Introductions and explanations of concepts Lightweight, opaque, acid-free paper; reinforced, sturdy binding Gilded page headings; ribbon place marker
THIS BRILLIANT, ELEVATING SERIES BELONGS IN EVERY JEWISH LIBRARY!
Make the Most of Your Time in Eretz Yisrael By Rabbi Moshe Wolfson Written by Baila Vorhand
Perfect Gift Idea
NEW!
Get a deeper appreciation for the significance and sanctity of Eretz Yisrael and many of the holy places there. Gain a better understanding of many of the Land’s mekomos hakedoshim, including Yerushalayim, the Kosel, Me’aras HaMachpelah, Kever Rachel, Kever Shimshon, Kever Shmuel, Meron, Tzfas, Tiveryah, Kever Shimon HaTzaddik, and Yam HaMelach. Whether you live in Eretz Yisrael, been to Eretz Yisrael before, or this is your first trip, this book will open your eyes and your heart as never before.
A must-have for Yeshivah / Seminary students and visitors
You love it at your Shabbos table. Now you can enjoy on Yamim Tovim! by Rabbi Yitzchok Zilberstein translated and arranged by Rabbi Moshe Sherrow
Great news — the bestselling NEW!What If... series, which has become a
beloved part of our Shabbos tables, is now available with halachic questions and answers about the Yamim Tovim — the perfect conversation starter for the upcoming Yom Tov season! Based on the popular Hebrewlanguage series Chashukei Chemed, written by noted rav and posek Rabbi Yitzchok Zilberstein shlita, and translated and arranged by Rabbi Moshe Sherrow, every volume in the What If... series includes hundreds of real-life halachic shaylos, each accompanied by a brief, practical scenario to illustrate the case, and an answer that is understandable and easy to follow.
Make your holiday table extra-special with What If on Yamim Tovim.
The following ArtScroll sefarim are available for your daily learning programs:
The Schottenstein Edition Talmud Bavli and Yerushalmi; Yad Avraham Mishnah Series; Schottenstein Edition Mishnah Elucidated; Ryzman Edition Hebrew Mishnah; Kleinman Edition Kitzur Shulchan Aruch; Kleinman Edition Daily Dose of Torah. This Shabbos, Elul 4: Daf Yomi Bavli – Sanhedrin 41/ Daf Yomi Yerushalmi – Kiddushin 2 / Mishnah Yomi – Shekalim 8:8-Yoma 1:1/Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Yomi – 208:10-209:6
Available at your local Hebrew bookseller or at www.artscroll.com • 1-800-MESORAH (637-6724)
23
24
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Rockefeller University in New York. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston came in third. Weizmann was the single institution overseas to make it to the top 15 for the 2017 Nature Index, published by nature.com. David Swinbanks, founder of the Nature Index, said the academic players featured in the index are expected to generate tomorrow’s inventions. “The need to demonstrate that publicly-funded science is being used for society’s benefit is paramount,” Swinbanks said.
Israelis are Happy at Work
What makes a person happy at their jobs? According to a survey published this week by the Israeli start-up company Dapulse, it’s not money that makes employees happy. Salary, interestingly, ranked lowest on the list of factors contributing to employees’ overall happiness in the workplace. The survey also suggested that Israelis are among the happiest employees in the world. The report surveyed some 10,000 Dapulse platform users employed in a variety of some 60 industries including accounting, construction, graphic design, finance, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and technology in 136 countries throughout July. Dapulse is known in the hi-tech sector for developing workplace task managing and communications platforms. Out of the 10,000 responders, a third were from Israel, another third were from the United States and the rest came from the remaining 134 countries. Although only 47% of the total responders defined themselves as happy at their jobs, 59% were optimistic about their professional future. Out of those 136 participating countries, Israel tied with the United States on overall happiness of employees at work. So what makes employees happy? The results showed that the
most important thing for employees across the globe was employment in a field the employee is passionate about, followed by working for a company that positively contributes to the world, a sense of personal recognition, working for a prestigious company, and an ability to balance work and personal life. Salary considerations were placed at the bottom of this list.
Bye-Bye Bannon
One year after joining the Trump team, first as CEO of the Trump campaign and then as chief political advisor in the White House, Steve Bannon and Mr. Trump split ways. The White House described Bannon’s departure as a mutual agreement between Bannon and the Trump administration. Hours after his departure from the White House last Friday, Bannon was back at the helm of the conservative news site, Breitbart.com, which he led before joining the Trump campaign, and chaired their evening editorial meeting. President Trump thanked Brannon in a tweet, writing, “I want to thank Steve Bannon for his service. He came to the campaign during my run against Crooked Hillary Clinton – it was great! Thanks S.” He also tweeted that he was happy that Bannon is going back to Breitbart because “fake news needs the competition!” Bannon has long been hated by liberals and the media and has been characterized as a racist, xenophobe and the rest of the common pejoratives reserved for those who see things differently than they do. He has long been accused of being an anti-Semite based on an accusation made by his ex-wife during a contentious di-
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
vorce proceeding that Bannon once said to her that he didn’t want their daughters to go to school with “whiney Jewish girls.” However, those who know Bannon – who took the helm at Breitbart after the passing of Andrew Breitbart who was proudly Jewish – have long decried this slander. In fact, Breitbart’s editor-at-large, Joel Pollack, who is an Orthodox Jew and worked with Bannon for six years, has described Bannon as a “friend of the Jewish people and a friend of Israel.” Although many rely on the media for information, anyone who even peruses Breitbart.com knows that it is one of the most pro-Israel news outlets on the internet. Bannon’s advocacy for economic nationalism – putting the American worker and economy over the interest of other economies around the globe – has not only put him at odds with globalists within the Trump administration but has also led the media to equate him with white nationalists, likely due to the word “nationalist,” despite economic and racial nationalism being distinct from one another. Bannon had largely remained behind the scenes for the first six months of the Trump presidency but his tenure within the West Wing had been turbulent. Although it is hard to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the media’s reporting on the Trump White House, some of Bannon’s battles have spilled out into the public. In recent weeks Brannon’s feud with National Security Advisor H.R McMaster spilled onto the homepage of Breitbart.com and similar websites, which accused McMaster of having a globalist agenda, being anti-Israel and staffing the National Security Council – which advises the president on national security and foreign policy matters and coordinates these policies among various government agencies – with holdovers from the Obama administration. Bannon’s role in the Trump administration fell into the spotlight last week when Mr. Trump responded to a question about his status, saying, “We’ll see what happens.” Within days of Trump’s comment, Bannon gave an uncanny interview to the American Spectator during which he railed against globalists in the Trump administration. “We’re at an economic war with China,” he said during the phone interview. “It’s all in their literature – they are not shy about saying what they are doing. One of us is going to be a hegemon
in 25 or 30 years and it’s going to be them if we go down this path. On Korea, they are just tapping us along. It’s a sideshow.” He explained that he is fighting the globalists within the Trump administration because “the economic war with China is everything” and that we are a few years away from losing that war to the point of no return. To many, that interview seemed like the point of no return – merely
two weeks after Steve Scaramucci was terminated 11 days into his job after talking to a reporter about White House infighting, Bannon did the same thing. The only difference is that Scaramucci was a novice and Bannon is as media savvy as the day is long. This begs the question: what is Bannon up to? Because, anyone who has followed him knows that the Bannon way is big, brash and bold.
25
Confederate Monuments Coming Down Many longstanding national monuments around the country will be taken down or have already been toppled. Following deadly clashes last week in Charlottesville, Virginia, many local governments have made
26
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Solar Eclipse Across the Country
Salem, Oregon
Powderly, Kentucky
Murfreesboro, TN
St. Louis, Missouri
the decision to remove Confederate statues and street names honoring Confederate leaders. In North Carolina, Florida, Maryland, California, and New York monuments have been removed. Over the years, several cities have removed Confederate monuments, including New Orleans, Austin, Orlando, Louisville, and St. Louis. For some, Confederate symbols are reminiscent of a dark time in the history of America, while others view it as part of our history as a country. In reference to the tearing down of our nation’s history, President Trump remarked that it’s “sad to see the history and culture of our great country being ripped apart. The beauty that is being taken out of our cities, towns and parks will be greatly missed and never able to be comparably replaced!” According to the Southern Poverty Law Center, there are more than 1,500 Confederate “place names and other symbols in public spaces, both in the South and across the nation.” There are also many states that plan to remove statues in the near future, including: Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Montana, Texas, and Alabama. Others states that have already
removed monuments have plans to remove additional statues like in Maryland and New York.
Antifa: Defining Far-Left Violent Protestors
Many have been talking about the violence that occurred in Charlottesville, Va., last week between far right groups and counter-protestors. The violence led to the death of Heather Heyer, 32, who was killed when a white supremacist ran her over with his car. Since then, Antifa, the group that led the counter-protestors, has come up over and over, and here is a quick look at who and what Antifa is. Antifa is the condensed form of the word anti-fascist. There is not only
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
27
28
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
one group of Antifa in America. According to the Department of Homeland Security, “‘Antifa’ are a subset of the anarchist movement and focus on issues involving racism, sexism, and anti-Semitism, as well as other perceived injustices.” They oppose, among many other things, the anti-immigration policies that President Trump has enacted and many other policies. However, their primary focus is opposing far-right ideology. A few things separate Antifa from the classic left-wing protest groups. For starters, their protests are often violent. When conservative writer Milo Yiannopoulos was slated to talk at UC Berkeley this year, Antifa protestors smashed windows, shot fireworks at police, and threw Molotov cocktails in their rage. At Trump rallies, many Antifa members were arrested after they threw eggs, threw punches and smashed car windows in protest. Members of Antifa often wear all black and cover their faces from view. These members are known as the Black Bloc and are known to be the most violent. According to the organization, the decision to wear all black is to show solidarity. The decision to wear bandanas or scarves over their faces is so they will not get arrested for violently breaking the law. Instead of promoting pro-left agenda, Antifa members use violence to protest pro-right ideologies. Although the group initially started in the 1920s and 1930s, membership waned when fascism withered after World War II. The group began to swell again in the ‘70s and ‘80s as neo-Nazism started to gain popularity. Trump, though, has helped the Antifa movement. According to NYC Antifa, the group’s Twitter following nearly quadrupled in the first three weeks of January alone. (By summer, it exceeded 15,000.) Trump’s rise has also bred a new sympathy for Antifa among some on the mainstream left. With the growth in Antifa, the violence has become louder and stronger. Antifa members often pressure venues to deny white supremacists space to meet. They pressure employers to fire them and landlords to evict them. And when people they deem racists and fascists manage to assemble, Antifa members try to break up their gatherings, including by force. Such tactics have elicited substantial support from the mainstream left. When a masked Antifa activist was filmed assaulting white supremacist Richard Spencer on Inauguration Day, another piece in The Nation described his punch as an act of “kinet-
ic beauty.” Slate ran an approving article about a humorous piano ballad that glorified the assault. Twitter was inundated with viral versions of the video set to different songs, prompting the former Obama speechwriter Jon Favreau to tweet, “I don’t care how many different songs you set Richard Spencer being punched to, I’ll laugh at every one.” Even people who attend rallies associated with the president are targeted by Antifa. In June of last year, demonstrators threw eggs and punched people exiting a Trump rally. An article in It’s Going Down celebrated the “righteous beatings.” This week, a petition calling on President Trump to recognize Antifa as a terrorist organization hit the 100,000 signature threshold it needs to receive an official response from the White House. The petition said: “Terrorism is, in its broadest sense, the use of intentionally indiscriminate violence as a means to create terror or fear, in order to achieve a political, religious, or ideological aim. Antifa has demonstrated time and time again that they’re more than willing and able to fill these criteria. “We’re asking that the president formally declare Antifa a domestic terror organization.”
Collision on the Seas
time and Port Authority of Singapore. Also involved in the effort are helicopters and Ospreys from the amphibious assault ship USS America. It was not immediately clear how the USS John S. McCain, which is 505 feet in length, collided with the 600foot Alnic MC. The destroyer was on its way to a routine port visit in Singapore at the time. The Navy said it is investigating. The damage to the hull caused flooding to nearby rooms, including the crew’s sleeping quarters and machinery and communications areas, according to the Navy. On June 17, the USS Fitzgerald crashed into a Japanese merchant ship, killing seven sailors. The ship’s three senior officers were relieved of their duties after an investigation found the sailors responsible for watching the bridge “lost situational awareness” and that “serious mistakes were made by the crew.” On May 9, USS Lake Champlain collided with a South Korea fishing boat off the Korean peninsula. And on August 19 last year, the USS Louisiana collided with the USNS Eagleview, a Navy support vessel, off the coast of Washington State. No one was injured in either incident. The USS John S. McCain is named after John S. McCain, Sr., and John S. McCain, Jr., both Admirals in the U.S. Navy and the grandfather and father, respectively, of the Arizona senator.
Hillary Still Paying Huma On Monday morning, the USS John S. McCain was hit by the Alnic MC, a 30,000-ton chemical and oil tanker sailing under the Libyan flag. This is the second Navy ship in three months to be involved in a collision with a merchant ship from another country. Immediately after the collision, a widespread search operation was commenced to locate ten missing American sailors from the ship. On Tuesday, the Navy reported that “some remains” of the missing sailors were found. The ship suffered “significant damage” to its hull after the collision and five sailors were injured in the crash. Singapore is leading search and rescue operations, providing four ships from its navy and coast guard as well as three tugboats from the Mari-
With Hillary not occupying the White House, you’d think that her top aide, Huma Abedin, would be out of a job. But that’s not the case. According to Federal Election Commission filings, Abedin has been paid $64,415.10 from Hillary for America, Clinton’s campaign committee, since mid-November. The bulk of the payments came mid-November to the end of March, when Huma received $52,180.65. The rest was transferred into her account from the beginning of April until the end of June.
Others are also reaping rewards from Hillary’s failed campaign. Nick Merrill, former press secretary for Clinton, was still receiving checks as of late June. Robert Russo, who was the director of correspondence and briefing for the campaign, now carries the same job title in the Office of Hillary Clinton and is still being compensated from Clinton’s campaign committee, as are a number of other staffers. Other campaign funds – $800,000 – were used to fund Onward Together, a “resistance” group that Hillary launched earlier this year.
Famous Battleship Found in Philippine Sea
The USS Indianapolis survived most of World War II with a stellar record and many confirmed kills. However, it was sunk in only 12 minutes on July 30, 1945 by the Japanese military in the Philippine Sea. Now, 72 years later, the wreckage of the Indianapolis has been found by the expedition crew of billionaire Paul Allen. When the ship went down, it was the single greatest loss of life at sea in the Navy’s history. Of the 1,196 crew members onboard, only 317 survived. Those who did not drown faced dehydration, saltwater poisoning and shark-infested waters. “To be able to honor the brave men of the USS Indianapolis and their families through the discovery of a ship that played such a significant role during World War II is truly humbling,” Allen said. His company will be live-streaming a tour of the wreckage in the weeks to come. Captain William Toti is the spokesperson for survivors of the Indianapolis. “For more than two decades I’ve been working with survivors. To a man, they have longed for the day when their ship would be found, solving their final mystery,” Captain Toti said. The billionaire has also funded expeditions that led to the discovery of the Japanese battleship Mosashi and the Italian WWII destroyer Artigliere.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
29
Americans Want Confederate Statues to Remain in Place
Keren Minchas Shlomo Americans, by an overwhelming majority, believe that statues honoring leaders of the Confederacy should remain as a historical symbol. The poll, which was conducted jointly by NPR PBS and Marist after the recent events in Charlottesville, found that 62% of Americans believe that the statues should remain in place and only 27% believe that they should be removed “because they are offensive to some people.” Despite a large percentage of Americans who believe that the Confederacy statues should remain in place, a vocal minority, backed by the media, are calling for the removal of the statues. In an interview with PBS’s Charlie Rose, Al Sharpton called for the government to cease maintaining the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C. – a glorious monument which pays tribute to the third president of the United States who penned the Declaration of Independence in 1776 – because he owned slaves. Another commentator on CNN argued that all memorials and statues of George Washington, the first president of the United States, should be removed because he was a slave owner as well. President Trump weighed in on the topic last Thursday when, in a series of tweets, he wrote, “Sad to see the history and culture of our great country being ripped apart with the removal of our beautiful statues and monuments. You can’t change history, but you can learn from it. Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson – who’s next, Washington, Jefferson? So foolish!” He added, “Also the beauty that is being taken out of our cities, Towns and parks will be greatly missed and never able to be comparably replaced.”
Over the past few years, we have sent gently used clothing to aniyei Eretz Yisrael in a biannual clothing drive. ALL COSTS are paid by anonymous sponsors, and collection and distribution is undertaken by NON-PAID volunteers. This is a special opportunity to perform the tremendous mitzvah of tzedakah without incurring any expense. Last April we shipped over 10,000 garments to distribution centers, both chareidi and chiloni, in Yerushalayim, Kiryat Sefer, Bet Shemesh, and other communities. The Keren is responsible for the clothing when it reaches E”Y, and the Israeli government inspects the container to make sure we comply with the rules and regulations. WE ARE SENDING ONLY GENTLY USED CLOTHING (no shoes, hats, or undergarments). Please select garments that you feel are appropriate and that our needy brethren in E"Y will be proud to wear. Please ensure that all clothing is stain-free and in very good condition. Thank you for the last drive! Our community’s drive was the most successful this organization ever had in terms of the quality and quantity of clothes we sent to Eretz Yisrael. Help us accomplish this great chessed again right before the Yomim Noraim!
The clothing drive will BE"H take place
Sunday, Sept. 10 | 10am-3pm at PRECISION AUTO BODY
10 Nassau Ave., Inwood, NY 11096 Around the corner from the car wash at Sheridan Blvd. & Bayview Ave. For more information, call 802 622 1818
Eat and Enjoy
Did you know that, according to research, if you force yourself to eat certain foods, your body may not be absorbing the proper nutrients from that food? Take, for example, a long day at the office. You are exhausted and hungry, maybe even hangry, and are itching to scarf down some cookies. But you control yourself, take a few minutes, and bite into some rice cakes instead. You eat them, feel full,
but you’re really less than satisfied. Truthfully, those rice cakes may not be as good for you as you think. Science says that nutrient absorption is somewhat reliant on enjoyment. If you’re on a diet and eating a bunch of bland food, you could actually be eating less healthily than you would be if you just ate the food you wanted. According to a relatively overlooked study conducted in 1977, peo-
30
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
ple absorb more nutrients from food they savored than from food they didn’t enjoy. The study abserved two groups of women: one group of Thai women and another group of Swedish women. They were all given a Southeast Asian dish that Thai women love. The dish is not so popular among the Swedes. At the end of the study it was noted that the Thai women absorbed nearly 50 percent more nutrients than the Swedish women, resulting in better nutrition and health benefit from the meal overall. So how did they determine that it was enjoyment that was the factor in nutrient absorption and not just genetics? The researchers made the same dish and then pureed it into a mushy paste. The Thai women ate it, although they thought it was unappealing, and absorbed 70 percent less iron than before. It was the same food, but because they enjoyed it less, they absorbed less of its nutrients. The body often craves what it needs. Sometimes a doughnut is a good thing – if your body is looking for some carbs. Doughnuts every meal, though, will not be the key to good health. So make sure to eat healthy, but to also give into some of those cravings. A little ice cream can go a long way.
Troubled Bridge over Waters
Every child – “alef,” “beis” or otherwise – deserves a school. A preschool. An elementary school. A middle school. And a high school. Page 76
He was a regular dad but he can now add “stunt master” to his resume. This week, Terence Naphys was driving his family over New Jersey’s Middle Thorofare Bridge when he felt the steel drawbridge beginning to lift beneath them. Quickly, Terence accelerated, and his car went airborne through the six foot gap between the steel parts and landed safely on the other side. The quick-thinking dad managed to save his family from plunging 65 feet into the deep bay below. “It’s scary what’s going through your mind. We could have all landed in the water,” Terence said. He
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
weekly
speci
ls
08/27/17 - 09/01/17
Order by Email: orders@Frankelskosher.com or Online: www.FrankelsKosher.com
Store Hours:
ww
1913 Cornaga Avenue • Far Rockaway • T. 718.471.7555 F. 718.471.9102 E. orders@Frankelskosher.com
While you were away, Frankel's continued to provide
Summer Sweet
THE BEST KOSHER SUSHI IN THE FIVE TOWNS AND FAR ROCKAWAY!
» Tremendous savings » Customer convenience
TO ALL OUR FRIENDS, CUSTOMERS, AND CAMPERS!
» Best online shopping experience » Free parking » Schreiber’s bakery » Stop chop n’ roll sushi » And so much more!!
Be a part of the frankel’s family!
BUY TWO GET ONE FREE!!
If you don’t get our Emails, sign up today. Send an email to
info@frankelskosher.Com, subject line “add me”.
Yummy Cholov Yisroel
Shredded Mozzerella
American Cheese
2 Lb Pkg
7.99
3 Lb Pkg
5.99
10.99
$
$
$
Bounty Towels
Bloom's
Salmon Fillet
Captain Cool Junior Freeze Pops
15 Pk
70 Ct
13.99
3.99
$
Fresh Daily
8.88 Lb
$
$
Meat Department Glatt Kosher
London Broil
Shoulder Steak
0.99 Lb
1.29 Lb
$
Mango
Positive
Fresh Crisp
Green Peppers
0.79 Lb
$
Summer Sweet
Shoulder Roast
5.99 Lb
5.99 Lb
Chicken Wings
Chicken Bones
Ground Beef
1.29 Lb
Beef Skirt Steak
$
Salad Mate
Romaine
17.99 Lb
W
0.55 Lb
3.99
Kosherific
Family Pack 25 Oz. Box
5.99
Flaum's
Creamy Spicy Olives
French
Fresh Daily W/ Cup Of Coffee
2 -LB. Loaf
2.99
$
Almond Cookies
2.99
$
Sweet Rolls
0.75
Rye Bread
Pick up your favorite
Challahs and Cakes
2.79
$
Water 28 Pk
Gefen
Apple Juice 4 Pk
4.99
$
1.75
$
$
Cereal 12 Oz
2.99
$
Tree Ripe
Fresh Fish Daily!
1/2 Gal
Lowfat All Varieties 5.3 Oz.
59 Oz.
Yogurt
Orange Juice
0.65
$
2 Fresh Pizza Pies
SalmonFillet
8.88 Lb
$
21.99*
Only $
Tilapia Fillet
2/ 5.00
$
7.99
$
$
ALAN’S BAKERY Fresh at Frankel’s for every Shabbos
Tuscanini
Lieber's
Original
9 Oz. Bag
Marinara Sauce
2/$5.00
Lb
*Pizzas Must Be Ordered And Picked Up From Avi's Pizza *Price Available With $25.00 Purchase
1.99
Mini Mandel
Xlg Can 7 Oz.
1.99
4 Lb. Bag
2/$5.00
Glick's
Wesson
Lieber's
Whole 10 Oz. Can
Gallon
Whole 15 Oz. Can
Hearts Of Palm
2/$5.00
$
Sugar
3/$5.00
Gefen
Solid Tuna
Domino
Chocolate Chips
$
Melech Hayam
Kleenex 230 Ct
Sports Bottle
Long Island All Varieties 18 Oz. Bottle
1.00
$
Canola Oil
1.99
Baby Corn
6.99
$
3/$3.00
$
Iced Teas
3/$3.00
Facial Tissues
Cold Cups 7 Oz. 100 Ct
Glick's
They're Back!!
Candle Holders
Ez Filters For Your Sink
50 Pk
1.99
0.95
$
1.29
$
2/$5.00
$
Cookies - Snacks
Peanut Butter Cereal 13 Oz.
Cereal 11 Oz.
3.49
2.99
Norman's
Ice Cold!
Poland Spring Water
Post
$
1.15
Cholov Yisroel
Ice Cold!
Reese's
Puffs
Whipped 8 Oz.
Cream Cheese
Household
Cereal Golden Grahams
All Varieties 7 Oz.
Yogurt $
Beverages Nestle
Givat/Hatov/Fresh Healthy
$
Milk
3.69
Mehadrin
$
All Varieties 5 Lb. Bag
Medium
11.99
1 Lb. Bag
$
Grocery
Bakery
Egg Challah
3.99
Broccoli Florets
$
$
Flour
Fresh Daily
12 Pk
Golden Flow
2.99
0.65
Chocolate Leben
Selected Varieties
Fresh & Healthy
All Varieties 16 Oz.
$
Mehadrin
Herring
Glick's
Schreiber's
All Varieties
$
$
Cottage Cheese Or Givat
Yogolite
3.99
$
3.99
$
Givat
Pizza Bagels
Reg / Lite 12 Oz.
3.99 Ea
$
Mendelsohn
Greek Dressing
Bing 5 Lb. Bag
6 Pk
5.99
$
8.99 Lb
Schreiber's
0.55 Lb
$
1.49 Lb
Potatoes
Dairy - Frozen
$
Schreiber's
Watermelon
8 Oz. Bag
2/ 5.00
$
Plums
56
Yukon Gold
Fillet Steaks
$
0.99 Lb
Summer Sweet
Grapefruits
2/$1.00
$
4.99 Lb
$
Grape Tomatoes
Fresh Sliced
2.99
1.99 Lb
Ground Chicken
1.49 Lb
Eggplant
3/$5.00
Shefa
$
0.99 Lb
$
Bodek
22 Oz. Loaf
Chicken Legs
3.99 Delicious
Gefilte Fish Fish Sticks
$
$
$
$
Ungar's
$
3.99 Lb
2/$3.00
Green Squash
8 Oz. Bag
Spanish
Honey
$
$
Romaine
$
& Olive Spread
5.99 Lb
X Lg.
Extra Firm
Pineapples
1.99
Top Quality Meat & Poultry
2.99 Lb
$
Glick's
3.99
1.49 Lb
$
$
$
Butternut Squash
Fresh Crisp
$
2 Lb
Freshly Cubed
Nectarines
$
Lieber's Or Glick's
Honey Bears
Delicious
Apples
Onions Major Honey Sale!
Fresh & Healthy
Chicken Cup-A-Soup
Ginger Gold
Peaches
2.99 Ea
Major Deals Gefen
Produce
Su: 7-7 Mon: 7-8 Tu: 7-8 We: 7-8 Th: 7-10 Fri: 7-5:00
Fruity Pebbles
2.99
$
Telma
Kariot Cereal 13.2 Oz.
3.99
$
Lieber's
Elite
Duplex Creme Chocolate Cookies Bars 13 Oz Pkg
3/$5.00
Drizzilicious All Varieties
Milk/Bittersweet 3.5 Oz
Only
4/$5.00
2.99
$
Stella Doro
Swiss Fudge Cookies
2.99
$
Gedilla
Hadar
Break-Off Tirosh Freeze Pops Cookies All Varieties
3/$5.00
2/$3.00
31
32
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
added: “I will never ever drive that bridge or probably any drawbridge again.” Thankfully, no one was hurt but the vehicle sustained $10,000 damage. The bridge operator did not see the Naphys family when he opened the bridge due to sun glare.
$22.5M for a Car
Would you shell out $22.5 million for a car? Well, it’s not just any car. It’s a classic car raced by Sir Stirling Moss and described as the “most important Aston Martin ever produced.” It became the most valuable British-made car ever when it sold for $22.5M at the annual auction at Monterey Car Week on Friday. The 1956 Aston Martin DBR1 is the firm’s equivalent to the Ferrari 250 GTO and Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR and just five were built between 1956 and 1958. The one that was sold is chassis number one – a purposebuilt model developed by racing design chief, Ted Cutting. DBR1/1 was designed to win at Le Mans, but while it failed to take the checkered flag in the 24-hour race, a later model did. The original engine is included in the price of the car – but it currently has a modern engine with no historical value, so it can be raced without concern. This new engine raises the car’s output to 301hp. RM Sotheby’s had valued the Aston Martin – which is believed to be the first DBR1 to go under the hammer – at more than £15 million. The DBR1 joins a handful of other classic Aston vehicles, including a 1959 DB4GT, which sold for an impressive $6.765 million, and a 2006 DBR9, which went for a cool $616,000.
A Ring with a Carrot – or a Karat? When Mary Grams lost her engagement ring 13 years ago, she was
upset. In fact, she never told her husband, who died five years ago, that she lost it. The now-84-year-old was weeding her garden on the family farm when it slipped off. But fast forward many years and the proud grandmother is wearing her ring again – thanks to a carrot. Her daughter-in-law, Colleen Daley, found the ring while harvesting carrots for supper on the family farm in Alberta, Canada. The farm has been in the family for 105 years. When Colleen pulled the orange vegetables out of the ground she noticed that one of the carrots looked strange. After washing it off, she found the ring wrapped around it.
Colleen and her husband quickly called Mary. “I said we found your ring in the garden. She couldn’t believe it,” Colleen said. “It was so weird that the carrot grew perfectly through that ring.” After washing the ring off, Mary slipped the ring on. “We were giggling and laughing,” she said. “It fit. After that many years it fits.” This is a ring with many different karats (carrots?!).
of the umpires featured in the painting. Sandra Sprinkle, Reardon’s granddaughter, later inherited the piece and hung it above the mantle of her Dallas home for about a decade. She had thought that it was a copy of the painting and displayed it prominently because Rockwell had signed it for her grandfather.
“Sandra and her grandfather were very close,” Gene, Sandra’s husband, said. “Whenever people came to our house to visit, she was always proud to show it off and tell them about her grandfather.” After Sandra passed away in 2015, Gene sold their home and moved to a retirement community. His nephew noticed that the painting wasn’t a print – it was a bona fide painting by the legendary artist. The nephew later determined it was an original oil painting, used as a study for the final version of the painting. This week, on Sunday, the painting – which had hung inconspicuously in the family home for years – sold for a whopping $1.6 million at auction. The final version of the painting is hanging in the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. It’s not a tough call to say that this family has scored a homerun with this sale.
Picture Perfect When the painting hanging above your fireplace is a signed painting by Norman Rockwell, you know it’s gotta be worth millions. A Texas family just found that out after staring at the painting, titled “Tough Call,” for years. The piece shows three umpires considering halting a baseball game as raindrops begin to fall. The painting became famous after gracing the cover of the Saturday Evening Post in 1949. Rockwell gave a signed copy of the work to John “Beans” Reardon, one
Speedy Subway The word speed is not always associated with subways as train delays and derailments have become the norm in New York. But two Boston-area residents – with a lot of time on their hands – say that they have set the world record for traveling to every stop in Boston’s subway system in just 7 ½ hours. The Boston Globe reports that Dominic DiLuzio and Alex Cox accomplished the feat on Friday in 7 hours, 29 minutes and 46 seconds.
The men hope to get official recognition from Guinness World Records and are submitting photos, videos and other evidence.
DiLuzio says he came up with the plan and enlisted Cox, a Massachusetts Department of Transportation employee. The two started their journey around 5:30 a.m. at Cambridge’s Alewife Station, which is the end of the Red Line. They ended at about 1 p.m. at Revere’s Wonderland stop, at the end of the Blue Line. They were greeted there by friends, media and transit officials. No word on if there was any air-conditioning in any of the cars.
Covfefe on a Car
Say what you want about President Trump, but there is one thing we can all agree on. The commander-in-chief has coined a word that has been making its way into articles, tweets, and headlines around the country. Now, Trump’s famous gaffe will be emblazoned on someone’s license plate. Ohio officials have granted a woman’s request to have “covfefe” written on her license plate. Brittany Scott decided to use the word back in May when she saw Trump’s twitter post: “Despite the constant negative press covfefe.” So far, she hasn’t received any complaints from fellow motorists. Because, you know, covfefe.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Around the
Community At the Annual Holliswood / Jamaica Estates Community BBQ this past Sunday for Queens Hatzalah, hosted by Heshy & Bobbie Brooks. There also was an ambulance ribbon cutting ceremony, donated by Abe & Ruth Naymark, z�l. The event was graciously sponsored by SEASONS.
Pictured, right to left: Yitschok Rowe, Queens Hatzolah Coordinator; Heshy Brooks, Annual BBQ host; Rabbi Moshe Taub, rabbi of Yong Israel of Holliswood; and Rabbi Shlomo Hochberg, rabbi of Jamaica Estates
33
34
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Learning at Ohr Leah
O
two and one half hours. During this time, the teacher works one on one with all of the students introducing the next level in each academic area of instruction. The teacher also keeps track of what each student is using in order to direct them should the need arise. Students understand and are responsible to choose language arts works, in both Hebrew and English, and a math work each day. Students are encouraged to work cooperatively and not competitively. Classes are grouped in three year groupings to facilitate peer-to-peer learning. Healthy eating habits are strongly encouraged and taught at Ohr Leah. The school provides a healthy morning snack of fruits and vegetables each day. Students prepare this, as needed, by themselves. The work period is followed by Line Time, which includes davening, calendar, parshas hashavua, weather, and yomim tovim. Each month a new gadol is introduced to the students. Lunch is next followed by outdoor play. The afternoon includes specialty
subjects including science, music appreciation, movement and art. Classical music is enjoyed and composers are introduced. Science experiments are done in a group setting pertaining to the monthly theme. Art is also tied into the monthly subject being taught. The day at Ohr Leah is not split into Judaic and secular components. As in our lives, everything is happening at the same time. All of the subjects are integrated. The underlying and most important goal of Ohr Leah is for students to love learning each day. This is not the hoped-for outcome, but the imperative goal of the teacher for each and every student. Students must be actively en-
ב נ י ם
ב זר
ש ו כ י ח
ל
כ
זרע של קיימא
ל
ו תפ
סגולת
קו
מא יי ק
ש
ע
gaged in their learning, not passive receptacles for information. Our lead teacher, Mrs. Peshy Russ, has been with us since the beginning and teaches each student in her own very special way. This year Mrs. Leah Schwartz will be joining the staff in an administrative position as well as a part-time teacher for the first grade girls. She comes with years of teaching experience of her own. We are so excited to be launching our first class for students in grades one in the fall of 2017. Are you interested in something different for your daughter? Contact Suzanne Burger, director, at 347-794-4940 or email infor@ohrleahacademy.org for more information.
ד
ל
hr Leah Academy is the new school on the block. Opened in September 2015 for girls ages 3-6 years old, Ohr Leah is unlike any other school in the Five Towns. What makes it so different? At Ohr Leah, students work at their own pace and always on their own level in every subject area. They are self-directed and the teacher is a facilitator who guides them to their own unique potential. How is this accomplished? Ohr Leah uses the Montessori Method of instruction. This methodology, which was developed in the late 1800s by Dr. Maria Montessori, has been in use for over a hundred years in schools throughout the world to do just this. What does a day look like at Ohr Leah? Girls, ages three through six, begin their day by choosing academic materials, called works, to use on their own. They can choose from an extensive array of interesting and enticing objects, in multiple modalities and all subject areas of the curriculum. They continue to use varying works throughout the morning period, which lasts
להבן איש חי
Sunday Night
On the Yartzeit of the
A Prayer Gathering
The Segula of the Ben Ish Chai For One to Merit Children
September 3
pleading for Heavenly compassion will take place with the participation of the Talmidei Chachanim of Kollel Chatzos This gathering will especially be dedicated for those who have
not yet merited having children of their own
All names will also be mentioned at the site of the
“Bais Hashunamis”
The next best thing to standing there. www.aish.com/wallcam
which is known to be an opportune
place to pray for healthy children
Ben Ish Chai zt”l One should support the holy Yidden who get up at Chatzos Halayla. In this Zechus they will be blessed with children ()בן איש חי בספרו כתר מלכות סי' ק"ס
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
o a f n a l t o e n k g a i sland v i h s ye
SUMMER
BBQ 2017 mon 7pm
Aug. 28 At the Home of
Yechezkel & Anat Hartman 7 4 L AW R E N C E AV E N U E
Committee nachum augenbaum
yechiel frisch
avrumi haas
moe rosenblum
ariel aber
pinky freidman
zev karasick
shmuli schachter
moshe bajnon
dudi gross
avi krasnow
alex shulman
nessanel feller
yechezkel hartman
elie mishaan
eric stern
to benefit the rebbe life insurance fund F o r
M e n
O n ly
35
36
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
HaRav Dovid Feinstein, shlita, Rosh HaYeshiva of Mesivta Tiferes Yerushalayim, shopping during the summer at Aron’s Kissena Farms in Queens, NY
OHEL Children’s Home and Family Services Raises Concerns of Vicarious Trauma
A
s an organization dedicated to preserve and enhance the mental health wellbeing of individuals and families, OHEL Children’s Home and Family Services is compelled to raise awareness of the potential emotional impact of the relentless daily coverage of recent traumatic events. Known as “secondary” or “vicarious” trauma, the repeated and graphic exposure to violent assault and rampant hatred can become traumatic, particularly to our children, even if only witnessed secondhand in print or electronic media and the ease of viewing on personal devices. Dr. Norman Blumenthal, the Zachter Family Chair in Trauma and Crisis Counseling at OHEL and Director of the OHEL Miriam Center for Trauma, Bereavement and Crisis Response, conveys that “we at OHEL implore parents, teachers and care providers to discuss these events with children and each other, addressing not only the lessons and concerns, but providing a realistic context of the scope and proximity of
any immediate threat to themselves and others.” While reasonable precaution, vigilance and concern in these times are warranted, excessive fear and misperception of danger serve only to immobilize and heighten anxiety. Two recent videos featuring Dr. Blumenthal, and available on the OHEL website, include “Talking to Children After Traumatic Events” and “When Does Trauma or Grief Warrant Professional Help.” OHEL Trauma services are available through OHEL’s Crisis Response Team staffed by trauma specialists multilingual in Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Hebrew, and Yiddish. From Individual, Group and Family Trauma Counseling Services to Community Education and Outreach, OHEL is able to both comfort and support victims of trauma while better preparing individuals, institutions and communities in dealing with tragedy. OHEL can be reached at 1800603-OHEL, access@ohelfamily.org or www.ohelfmaily.org.
Once you’re married, she’ll probably just up the ante, and you’ll be lucky if you’re allowed to pick out your own socks. Page 68
Curran Visits with 5 Towns Organizations
L
egislator and County Executive candidate Laura Curran visited with Rabbi Dov Silver, founder and executive VP of Madraigos, and Rabbi Baruch Ber Bender, founder
and president of Achiezer Community Resource Center, to discuss their amazing work in the frum community and creative new ways to partner with local government.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Around the Community
TOVA Mentoring: Become a Mentor, Impact a Life!
Program Director Ariella Newman, MSW, interviewing a potential mentor
T
he TOVA Mentoring program is entering its 20th school year of helping children of our community. The importance of the TOVA mentoring program is obvious. Our children are faced with incredible challenges today. Parents are often too overwhelmed with life’s daily challenges to give their own children the attention they need to face their challenges. Children growing up in difficult situations often need extra attention and care. TOVA mentors fill that gap and remind the child that there are those in the community who care. Richard Altabe, one of TOVA’s founders, commented, “A child who has a TOVA mentor is a child who has the privilege of having an older brother or big sister provide a non-judgmental listening ear on a consistent basis. Research on mentoring shows that children who have mentors involved in their lives are less likely to engage in at-risk behaviors and are more likely to succeed in school.” According to the National Mentoring Partnership, a nationwide organization that promotes mentoring and serves as a resource for mentors and mentoring initiatives, students who meet regularly with their mentors are 52 percent less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 37 percent less likely to skip a class. About 40 percent of a teenager’s waking hours are spent without companionship or supervision. Ariella Newman, MSW, was recently appointed as the program director of TOVA. Ariella is a home-grown Five Towns resident who cares deeply about
the youth of our community. She is a graduate of the prestigious Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College and comes with years of experience in early intervention and clinical therapy. Ariella utilizes her multifaceted experience to guide the mentors on a case-by-case basis, optimizing the relationship’s effectiveness in helping the child. “Ariella is a caring and enthusiastic program director. She handles every child with an acute sensitivity toward their specific situation. Additionally, she has a keen awareness of the child’s entire emotional situation and uses that to guide the mentors,” commented Moshe Brandsdorfer, executive director or TOVA. TOVA’s former director, Yehuda Klinkowitz, confidently handed over the mentoring program that he nourished and grew over the past 14 years. Yehuda built the mentoring program into the successful program that it is today. Yehuda’s efforts and dedication is well-known by all of the local school principals, psychologists, TOVA participants and the community at-large. “Yehuda went well above and beyond for the children of TOVA. Yehuda has made an indelible impact on our community. We all owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude,” stated Dr. Norman Blumenthal, co-founder of TOVA. TOVA is looking forward to another year of guiding and caring for our children. If you are a yeshiva/seminary age young adult this is your chance to make a difference in the life of a child who needs you. To arrange an interview please call 516-295-0550 or email anewman@ tovamentoring.org.
37
38
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Gourmet Glatt and the Village of Cedarhurst’s Night of Jewish Music
A
record-breaking crowd converged on Andrew J. Parise Park (Cedarhurst) on Tuesday evening for an unforgettable Concert Under the Stars with the inimitable Yoni Z. The concert also featured an opening-act by the always entertaining Twins from France and a special appearance by singer Meilich Kohn. “My family always looks forward to the
Concert in the Park,” said one participant. “But for sheer energy and excitement, this year's event was off the charts. The performers were all in top form, and the crowd loved it!” Sponsored by Gourmet Glatt, the annual Jewish concert is part of the Village of Cedarhurst’s popular Summer Concert Series.
Of Baby Bonnets, the Ben Ish Chai, and Midnight Blessings Years had passed, but the talmid of the great mekubel, Rav Mordechai Sharabi, zt”l, did not give up hope. For years, he carried his pain in his heart. He had performed all sorts of segulos, but was yet to be blessed with a ben zachar. Still, he continued to daven, to hope, and to dream. One night, his heart erupted with longing. He approached a group of talmidei chachamim who were learning throughout the night and begged them, “You’re learning all night long. You’re accomplishing such great things. Can you perform the segula of the Ben Ish Chai on my behalf, so that I be blessed with a ben zachar?” The talmidei chachamim responded yes… And Hashem responded yes to
their tefillos. At the ripe age of seventy, this man became the father of a baby boy. *** It is not a secret that nighttime learning is particularly auspicious for zera shel kayama. The Kollel Chatzos office reports that they constantly receive requests from callers worldwide, asking to sponsor Kollel Chatzos’s talmidei chachamim, so that these talmidei chachamim will daven on behalf of couples waiting for children… And the Kollel Chatzos office also reports that they constantly hear besuros tovos that the talmidei chachamim’s davening has brought forth the long-awaited yeshuos. This well-known, well-proven se-
gula is described so eloquently and instructively by the Ben Ish Chai in Keser Malchus (siman 160), “The husband and wife should sponsor the needs of a chabura (group), who awaken to learn at Chatzos, and in this zechus, they will be blessed with zera shel kayama, and so they should do constantly.” This Sunday night, 13 Elul, Parshas Ki Savo, is the yahrtzeit of the holy Ben Ish Chai. And while the Ben Ish Chai’s segula is applicable every night of the year, it is particularly meaningful when performed on his very yahrtzeit. Therefore, Kollel Chatzos dedicates this night as a special Leil Tefila for couples who are waiting for children. A delegation of Kollel Chatzos
talmidei chachamim will daven at the place designated as the gateway for tefillos for children – the “Bais Isha HaShunamis,” the very place where Elisha HaShunamis enacted a miracle and the Isha HaShunamis merited children. So many of us know couples who are in pain and wish we could help… somehow. We may not be doctors nor possess the key to life. Yet, this Sunday, we can all do something. Something meaningful, something powerful. We can heed the call of the Ben Ish Chai on his yahrtzeit. We can partner with Kollel Chatzos, sponsor the needs of the Kollel’s distinguished talmidei chachamim, and daven to Hashem that this night storm the gates of zera chaya v’kayama.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
39
40
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community Loads of fun at Ruach Day Camp included a concert by Rabbi Mordechai Shapiro, crazy hair day, the Ruach color run, and color war
www.shirtstop.us We’ve expanded our website to girls clothing and accessories!
(347) 871-1621
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Pict urethis
portraits by
"When fleeting moments become lifetime treasures, trust their preservation to the artistry of Ira Thomas Creations" Cedarhurst, NY t 516 -791-7230 www.irathomascreations.com
41
22
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
42
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
THIS WEEK WE ARE TALKING TO:
Machaneh Hakayitz
Exciting Camp Feature! Back for a 4th Year!
How are the youngest Five Townsers spending their summer? Over the summer season we will be speaking with local day camps to learn how our children and teens are spending their eleven weeks of summer vacation. Between swimming, sports, learning, trips, projects, cheers and lots of ices, we know their days are jam-packed with fun.
Every summer, hundreds of boys revel in the ruach that is synonymous with Machaneh Hakayitz. From learning, leagues, swimming, cheers, awesome activities, and amazing trips, the summer fun never ends! This week, we were able to speak with Rabbi Ament and senior division head Rabbi Shalom Rosen to learn more about Machaneh Hakayitz’s unparalleled senior division and about the wonderful time all Machaneh Hakayitz campers had each day this summer.
Rabbi Ament, Machaneh Hakayitz just completed its ninth amazing summer. Can you tell us about it and how it all started? Sure! But first let me begin by saying that we love seeing our photos in the TJH each week! Thank you for putting us in! I grew up and learned in Montreal. I went to Camp Agudah in the mountains for many years and was enthralled by the ruach that I experienced. It was always my dream and vision to have a day camp with a similar ruach. Eleven years ago I moved to Far Rockaway when I got the job to teach first grade in Darchei Torah. Many parents had been asking the Rosh Hayeshiva, Rabbi Bender, to open a day camp that would have serious Torah-dikeh hashkafos and have counselors who were bnei Torah and “very geshmak.” Rabbi Bender approached Rabbi Eliezer Selengut and myself to create such a day camp, and the rest is history. Did you know Rabbi Selengut before? Rabbi Selengut grew up in Brooklyn and learned in Chaim Berlin. He went
to Camp Na’arim for many years and after experiencing the infectious personality and adorable humor of Rabbi Shmuel Kunda, z”l, he also had a dream to open a day camp with the same fun and warmth. Rabbi Selengut teaches second grade in Darchei. Before we worked in Darchei together, Rabbi Selengut and I had never met. It’s funny because we look alike and many people ask us if we’re brothers, but we aren’t even related! Tell us about the tremendous growth you’ve had at Kayitz. In our first summer we had 59 campers. No division heads, no sports director, no leagues, barely any trips, and no preschool. This year we had, b”H, over 350 campers, 4 divisions, a sports director with intense leagues, 3 division heads, an exhilarating schedule, a massive canteen, and an incredible preschool program! What was a “regular” day like in camp? We begin every day with top notch davening and learning with top notch rabbeim. The summer camp season is ten weeks long.
That’s more than a quarter of the time the boys spend in Yeshiva. During the school year the boys learn so much, acquire so many skills and develop with so much growth that it’s such a shame if they would lose all of that in the summer. We hire professional rabbeim and the boys really learn nicely. The rabbeim for the older boys had fun programs for their talmidim to learn and review Mishnayos and blatt of Gemara ba’al peh and the younger graders were finishing parshiyos in Chumash. It’s amazing! Besides the actual learning they were doing, they will also return to Yeshiva in September on the same level, if not higher, than they were when they left in June. Then we raise the ruach in the dining room by lunchtime with cheers and game shows. After lunch, the boys enjoy very intense sports and leagues run by Sports Commissioner Rabbi Eli
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Post and Assistant Commissioner Rabbi Feivish Rotbard. We use the beautiful fields at the #4 School on Wanster Ave. Mid-afternoon is reserved for bunk games, where the boys use their achdus to face off against other bunks. Our boys also enjoy daily swims in three state of the art pools under the leadership of our head lifeguard Rabbi Yitzchok Borenstein, all geared for different level swimmers. Every boy also gets daily swimming instructions from our Red Cross WSI water instructor, Rabbi Menachem Bernstein. We have a sophisticated art program led by Mrs. Tzipi Fisher, and we have a trip every week and late nights and overnights for the senior division. There is so much happening on each day! Dismissal for preschool, junior and intermediate divisions is at 4:00 pm. The senior division gets dismissed at 5:00 pm. Once a week they have a late night and get dismissed at 7:00 pm, and once each half they had an overnight! Wow! Sounds amazing! Can you tell us about preschool? The preschool program at Machane Hakayitz is a great mixture of creativity, sports, learning and fun all intertwined in a warm and structured environment. Our morahs are experienced in the classroom as well as on the homefront, so the boys know they are in a safe and comfortable environment which allows them to have the best time possible. The assistant morahs are top notch as well – they don’t just tell the boys
to play ball, they actually play with them, making the games even more fun! The days themselves are structured with a balance of indoor and outdoor sports, free play, swim, and art. We try to keep the structure as consistent as possible because children crave structure and stability; the more they have, the happier they are. Even having a theme – this summer was transportation – gives way to consistency and structure. The preschool program is run by Mrs. Suri Bernstein. An occupational therapist by trade, she found that all too often the boys come back to school in September having forgotten what their rabbeim and teachers and therapists spent so many months teaching them. So as much fun as we have, we also make it a point to review our Alef Bais and ABCs, and to spend as much time and as many projects as possible fine-tuning the age-appropriate fine motor and prewriting skills. Of course, the projects and activities are messy and fun so the boys don’t even realize that they may actually be working on a skill. This year, we used every possible mode of transportation to guide us in an action-packed, hands-on summer! There was train travel and water travel, wheel travel and air travel, space travel and animal travel, snow travel and body travel. Each week’s theme gave way for exciting and creative activities! Car painting and foot painting, sponge painting and Q-tip painting, and even straw painting! We washed a big car with sponges and little cars with toothbrushes. We made snowmen out of
cookies and snowflakes out of candy. We built boats and watched them sail downstream, and went to the beach to build sandcastles. There were races with trucks and with balloons and with cars, and races of boys crawling across bubble wrap…because it’s fun! The mode of travel for the last week of camp was Time Travel. We looked forward to reading the book called A Time for Torah as we tried to instill in the boys the importance of time and of making time to learn Torah and to review whatever they have learned. Because camp really is all fun and games…but that doesn’t mean we should forget who we are and that middos and Torah are the most important! To what do you attribute the success you’ve had? Without a doubt it’s the staff we have. We have the most incredible head staff and counselors. Each one of them brings so much that it’s hard to imagine what Kayitz would look without them! Rabbi Shalom Rosen is the Senior Division head. He is one of the most creative people you’ll ever meet! The games and activities he makes up and runs are hilarious and fascinating! His attention to detail is incredible. Every single partic-
43
24
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
44
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
ular of every late night and overnight is carefully thought through and planned. Rabbi Yitzchok Selengut is the Intermediate Division head. He runs such a solid program. The fun and structure he puts into each daily schedule is beloved by the campers. The Junior Division is run by Rabbi Dovid Engelberg. He is so cheerful and geshmak; he prepares so many fun and exciting special activities for them, and the campers love it! Mrs. Suri Bernstein runs such an amazing preschool program that she could be the camp director! Rabbi Eli Post runs the leagues program together with Rabbi Feivish Rotbard. Rabbi Post is so talented that he would be able to be the MLB commissioner and be great at it. On the spot he can list you the batting average and on base percentage of any Kayitz camper in any division and from any year! The Leagues are extremely intense and the campers take it very seriously. As we like to say: it’s real. At the end of every week he writes a detailed sports report highlighting the games of each week as well as the individual stats of each camper.
Rabbi Yitzchok Borenstein is the head lifeguard and he runs a tight ship keeping us safe and sound all summer, and Rabbi Menachem Bernstein is the swimming instructor and we’ve seen with our own eyes boys who were afraid to even enter the water in June who are now swimming like experts in August! B”H with so many campers and so much going on, we have Rabbi Avi Levitin who is our Director of Camper Coordination to help keep everything and everyone coordinated! The directors of our lunch program are Rabbi Lipa Raskin and Rabbi Moishy Adams. Our delicious, gourmet food is made by a wellknown caterer Mrs. Frieda Levy. Our counselors are the greatest. They are hardworking, responsible, and, most of all, they love what they do! It’s our counselors’ thrill to get their boys to shout out and cheer for their bunk by lunch or to pump their team up all the way to the World Series. Kayitz is non-stop ruach, but it’s our counselors that juice it up with the energy. Every Friday the head staff puts on a hilarious skit. Many boys whose families go up to the country for Shabbos only leave after the skit be-
cause the boys do not want to miss it! Last year a boy went out of town on Thursday and was crying to his mother that he would miss the skit! He said that it was his favorite part of camp! She called us and requested if would be able to video the skit and send it to her! I would love to see some of them! Maybe you can video them all next year for us to see. Tell us about some of the trips and shows you’ve had in camp this summer. We really pack it in! We have a tradition that we’ve done for a number of years that as the boys arrive in camp on the first day we have a show from the Twins From France! We’ve also had shows from the Ray Shine Tumbling team, The Chicago Sky Squad Slam Dunk Team, and The Living Torah Museum. We’ve went to Fun Station USA, The Beast Jet Boating, Rockville Center Bowling, Aviator ice skating, Laser Bounce, and Bounce Trampolines. We ended off the season with a massive outdoor carnival complete with huge water rides, cotton candy and snow cones.
Sounds like loads of fun. Tell us about the late nights and overnights that the Senior Division had. We call the Senior Division late night program “BLACKOUT!” Every week the Senior Division stays after dismissal until 7:00 pm and has a lavish supper. We alternate between pizza and a barbeque. After our seniors are treated to a full course dinner, they gear up for special innovative activities that are packed with surprises and excitement. We also arrange an array of water sports. For the “MAJOR BLACKOUT” we had two unforgettable overnights that were both trips of a lifetime. In July we went to Camp Oraysa in the Catskills. It is a beautiful and very well-run camp. We had a late night swim followed by a massive bonfire complete with roasting marshmallows. We had sports at 1:30 am and 6:30 am! And we did many other fun things on their gorgeous grounds. In August we went to Kalahari Water Park and had an exhilarating time on the rides and slides together with other sleepaway camps till the wee hours of the morning! Last week I was at a local Kiddush and I got cornered by three baale ba-
tim who have sons by us. They were so excited about the Senior Division trips, they begged me to come along! Sounds like a party! What do you feel makes Kayitz special and unique? Ah! This is my favorite question! I’ve been to and observed day camps and sleepaway camps and noticed something interesting. Each camp’s basic core daily schedule is more or less the same. Great staff, great learning, great sports and great trips. But why are some camps more beloved by the campers than others? I listen carefully to what the boys discuss at recess during the school year. Some boys who went to great camps enjoyed it and then move on while others boys can’t stop talking about their summer camp experience. It boils down to one thing: RUACH. The “inside jokes” that a camp creates or the unforgettable camp cheer that they sing to themselves throughout the winter or the silly games that no one else would understand because they are “HTBT” (had to be there) – that is what makes a camp special. The campers feel like family. When two boys pass each other in the hallway in December
and give each other a wink or throw a funny line that was popular in camp that no one else would understand, that is what our camp special and unique. It’s all in our heart. Kayitz ruach is the neshama, the pulsing lev v’nefesh that creates such a bond between the campers and the camp. One of the greatest sources of nachas that we get is when we meet former campers who tell us that they’ve been to other camps, even sleepaway camps, but the ruach of Kayitz is something that no one else can duplicate, that is what makes us proud. Every summer we teach the boys a new camp cheer to a tune that we compose just for it and the boys sing it and remember it forever. Bochurim who were our campers years ago still remember every word of every cheer. Every day at lunch we call up campers and counselors and make game shows on the stage. Parents tell us that their sons make similar game shows at home for their siblings and neighbors. Boys spend hours on Shabbos afternoon reenacting the hilarious skits we put on every erev Shabbos. Every year the senior division boys who have been with us since preschool ask us if they
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
25
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
45
can go to the stage and run our most popular and beloved game show for the younger boys! It’s called “Let’s Make a Deal!” It’s not the trips or the sports that will make a child love a camp. It’s that special feeling. Anyone who has experienced it knows exactly what I’m talking about. A number of years ago we were on our way to downtown Manhattan to ride the Shark Jet Boat when our bus broke down. It was a sweltering hot day and we had 100 boys sitting on the sidewalk on the corner of Wall St. and Broadway waiting for a new bus to come. Japanese tourists were passing by and taking pictures of us! So what can we do for the hour or so to keep the boys happy? The answer is ruach! We got them to laugh, we got them to sing, we gave them a great time right there in the center of downtown Manhattan without using any prizes, sports equipment or props. That night we got an email from a parent. It was a one-liner but it summed up our raison d’etre: “Dear Rabbi Ament and Rabbi Selengut. I don’t know what happened today but Yitzy came home and said he had the best day ever!” That is Machaneh Hakayitz.
Sounds amazing! Can you tell us your camp cheer this year? Certainly! Here goes: Every boy in Kayitz, homerun, grand slam Each bunk in Kayitz, three pointer, swish All the division, touchdown right here, 2017 be here of be square! I’m a Kayitz boy always and forever, This is the very best summer ever, You can take a boy out of Kayitz that is true, But you can never take the Kayitz out of you! We have a numbers section in our camp interviews. Can you give us a list of “numbers” that define Machaneh Hakayitz? Well, there’s really only one number: 350 THRILLED CAMPERS because that’s all that counts!
20 20 46
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home AUGUST 24,
My Journey Through Grief An open letter to my beautiful daughter, Raizel Malka bas Yona (Rebecca), a”h, on her second yahrtzeit By Lisa Kessler Rosenblatt
M
y Dearest Raizy, Another year has passed, another summer has come and gone, and once again we find ourselves preparing for the New Year. For some, this means back to school preparations, seminary girls are anxiously awaiting their flights and bachurim are returning to yeshiva for the start of the Elul zman. Elul is synonymous with self-reflection; it’s a time to prepare ourselves for the upcoming Yomim Noraim. We begin with Rosh Hashana, a time of renewed hope. Friends and family wish each other blessings for a sweet New Year, as they celebrate with new fruits, new clothing and the wakeup call from the sounding of the shofar. Rosh Hashana, the second most holy day in the Jewish calendar, the day we beg Hashem to place our name in the Book of Life, we pray for good health, financial security, freedom from anxiety and stress, healthy children and peace of mind. Rosh Hashana is also the day that will forever leave a scar on my broken heart.
For, it was on Rosh Hashana that you returned your precious soul to your Maker. It’s surreal to think we’re coming up on two years since you made your way to the Olam HaEmes. Two years of gut-wrenching agony, sleepless nights and, surreptitiously, tremendous growth. These past two years have tested our family, to what seemed beyond our limits, yet we stand stronger knowing Hashem’s infinite wisdom and love have been watching over us throughout this painful journey. As I stand in shul, trying to concentrate on my prayers, my mind turns to you, to the blessing of motherhood you bestowed upon me, to the times of joy and sorrow, worry and nachas. And then the shofar is sounded and everything stops. All thoughts, all fears, worries, hopes and dreams come to a standstill as my heart is infused with the sweet sound of the shofar. As the Tokea blows, my soul begins to stand taller, I feel more peaceful, I feel loved, cared for and protected. With the sound of the shofar my world is com-
plete. My loss becomes something greater than my own; it becomes part of the collective loss of Klal Yisroel and with that there is healing. Healing because our loss is Hashem’s loss and as a loving father He will not let us fall. As I listen to the sound of the shofar I know all will be well, I am never alone. The summer of 2015 started off like every other summer, we had a graduation in the family and anticipation for the upcoming, seminary year in Israel. That excitement was short lived, as six weeks before her scheduled flight, N was notified she would need surgery within the next few weeks and was therefore unable to fly. Do you remember how devastated she was? Fortunately, you lived close by and she was able to come by and cry her eyes out, as you patiently listened and comforted her with the love only a big sister could give. Surgery was scheduled for the week before Labor Day. Once again we couldn’t think of a worse time to have it, since it not only took away her year in Israel, but was also ruining
the last vestiges of the summer. In hindsight this was one of the many blessings Hashem bestowed upon us to give us the strength to get through the very trying times ahead. Raizy, your unwavering love for your family knew no bounds, that love also gave us the gift of seeing you for one last time in all your glory. Not willing to wait a week to visit with your sister after surgery, you took the time to make the long trek back to New York from your place in Pennsylvania. What made this even more heroic was the fact that you had no transportation and spent hours on buses till you made your way back. Who would have guessed that would be the last time you would stand in our home, the last time we would hear I love you, or see your beautiful smile? A mere two days after your visit, you collapsed, had a seizure and fell into a coma. When we came to see you we found you on life support, helpless save for the grace of Hashem who kept you with us for another ten days. The call came Motzei Shabbos,
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015 The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
which coincided with the first night of selichos. What a bracha, Klal Yisroel stormed the heavens with prayers for your complete recovery, but Hashem had another plan. He afforded your family and friends time to be with you, share memories, pray, and cry. The hospital reported there were over 300 visitors who came to
unscathed. The secret is faith; faith in knowing we are not alone, faith in knowing there is a bigger picture that we are not privy to, and faith in the knowledge that there is a loving and caring Father that has our best interest in mind. My faith has been what has carried me and my children. We see the Yad Hashem in our lives on a
Who would have guessed that would be the last time you would stand in our home, the last time we would hear I love you or see your beautiful smile? see you in ICU, another miracle that they let them in. Your life was one of chessed and your passing was filled with chessed. Hashem knows how precious your soul was and chose you to be the source of much bracha to the world. The bracha came from your inconspicuous ways; your dress and appearance did not reflect the neshama that you had inside, however as soon as you spoke your goodness came through. Your simchas hachaim was palpable, your love for every Jew and non-Jew alike was ever present. Your friends came from all walks of life, each one a gem, some more polished than others, but each one a precious child of Hashem. How did we get through these past two years? It was not easy, but the chessed of Hashem has been so great it’s impossible to deny His presence. Grief is a journey, it comes in waves, and part of the journey is learning how to ride those waves. There are days which seem impossible to bear, lest for the grace of Hashem, and days which we pass through
daily basis. Hashem does wondrous miracles for us every second of every day. The secret is to look for them, as it is in the seeking that we find. There is no greater pleasure for me than having my children tell me what Hashem did for them today. As we train ourselves to see the blessings in our lives the ripple effect trickles down to our children. Sitting around at the dinner table and sharing the blessings of the day certainly beats fighting or rushing to use some electronic device. When we got up from shiva we went to Oh Nuts and purchased different color jelly beans for each family member and designated a small jar as our brachos jar. Each time someone saw a blessing in their life they put a jelly bean into the jar and at the end of the week the one with the most jelly beans got the whole jar. Truth be told we didn’t have much of an appetite for candy at that time, however, the jar was filling quickly, so I brought the jelly beans every few weeks to my office for others to enjoy. It’s a fun activity
and kids love it, but most importantly it trains us to view the world through different glasses. We all go through challenges in our lives, some bigger than others, however, who are we to say whose challenge is greater? There is a plan for each of us; left to our own devices we often feel overwhelmed and may even fall prey to depression and anxiety. Faith that there is a divine plan and that everything in our lives is coordinated perfectly for our good brings about our own personal salvation. For myself and my family there is no other way for us to thrive. T There is an ache in our heart and soul that will not be filled till Mashiach comes, for now we choose to celebrate the life of our beautiful daughter and sister by emulating her acts of chessed and love for others. All who knew her commented how she made them feel like they were the most important person, be it her students, her friends, or even the gas station attendant. Most of us ignore him. She asked if he wanted something from Starbucks one cold winter day. Her home was open to all and she had many friends who slept on her couch when they had nowhere else to go, be it they were visiting from out of town or too tired to drive home after a long day. Raizy was a gift in our life whose demise was too early.
Lisa Rosenblatt is a clinical social worker with offices in the Five Towns and Brooklyn. She works with families, individuals and couples. She facilitates a support group for parents who lost a child to addiction. For more information Lisa can be reached at (516)313-9483 or email lisa.rosenblattlcsw@gmail.com.
Scholarship Fund L’ilui nishmas Raizel Malka bas Yona In honor of her memory we have established a fund to help at-risk youth attend the Madraigos Rosh Hashana Retreat. Throughout the years, we have been in contact with Rabbi Silver of Madraigos, who has given us guidance and encouragement. Madraigos has been, and continues to be, a haven for the children in our community, regardless of where they are in life. It has programs for those who are struggling with substances, religion, and/or family, as well as youth who are seeking a structured and nurturing environment. Raizy passed on the first day of Rosh Hashana, so we couldn’t think of a better way to memorialize her than by raising money to help send youth to the Madraigos Rosh Hashana Retreat. The retreat brings together youth and adults alike, from various backgrounds and life circumstances, providing them with a spiritually uplifting experience in a hotel/ resort setting with amenities that extend well beyond the delicious food, luxury accommodations, inspirational classes, meaningful prayer services and life-saving camaraderie. For only $360, you can sponsor a person for a single Rosh Hashana, but more importantly, a lifetime of health. Madraigos is a 501c-3 not-forprofit organization. All donations are tax deductible. Checks can be written to Madraigos, credit cards are accepted. Please contact Rivka Lock, 516-371-3250 for all payment options. Checks can be sent to: Madraigos (In memory of Raizy Rosenblatt Felsman), 936 Broadway, Woodmere, NY 11516.
21 47
48
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Thank You For Making
Summer
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
2017
A Huge Success!
See You Next Summer!!!
49
50 34
1.
AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
TJH
Centerfold
You gotta be kidding A very elderly couple were both having memory problems so they decided to write everything down to help them remember things. Later that night, while watching TV, the man got up from his chair and his wife asked, “Where are you going?” He replied, “To the kitchen.” She asked, “Will you get me a bowl of ice cream?” He replied, “Sure.”
She then asked him, “Don’t you think you should write it down so you can remem-
ber it?” He said, “No, I can remember that.” She then said, “Well, I would also like some strawberries on top. You had better write that down because I know you’ll forget that.” He said, “I can remember that – you want a bowl of ice cream with strawberries.” She replied, “Well, I also would like whipped cream on top. I know you
will forget that so you better write it down.” With irritation in his voice, he said, “I don’t need to write that down! I can remember that.” He then stomped off into the kitchen. After about 20 minutes, he returned from the kitchen and handed her a plate of hash browns and eggs. She stared at the plate for a moment and said angrily: “You see—I told you to write it down! You forgot my toast!”
Ice Cream Facts July is National Ice Cream Month. It was created by Ronald Reagan in 1984. (TJH has extended that celebration deep into August!) About 1.53 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2011. The U.S. ice cream industry generated total revenues of $10 billion in 2010. The majority of U.S. ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturers have been in business for more than 50 years and many are still family-owned businesses. Vanilla is the #1 selling flavor ice cream. It takes approximately 50 licks to finish off a scoop of ice cream. The major ingredient in ice cream is air.
The United States is the top ice cream consuming country in the world. The largest ice cream scoop pyramid was created in February 2017 by 278 colleagues at Norwegian ice-cream manufacturer Diplom-Is AS. It had a total 5,435 scoops, weighed over 1,102 pounds, and was approximately 3 feet, 7 inches with 23 layers of ice cream. The largest ice cream cake, according to Guinness, topped the scales at 22,333.6 pounds and was created by Dairy Queen Canada on 10 May 2011. The cake measured 14 feet, 7 inches long, was 13 feet, 3 inches wide, and was 3 feet, 3 inches tall. It included sponge cake, vanilla ice cream, buttercream frosting, and Oreo cookie crumble topping. In 1812, the first lady Dolley Madison served ice cream at the second
inaugural ball. In 1845, the hand-cranked ice cream freezer was invented. It takes 12 lbs. of milk to make a gallon of ice cream. The ice cream cone was invented in 1896 with a patent being issued in 1903 to Italo Marchiony. The widespread use of ice cream cones occurred after its introduction at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904 and many credit this as the birth of the ice cream cone. So, just like the birth of ice cream, nobody knows for sure when the cone really was invented. About 9 percent of all the milk produced by U.S. dairy farmers is used to produce ice cream, contributing significantly to the economic well-being of the nation’s dairy industry.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 29, 24, 2015 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER
So You Wanna Be an Ice Cream Seller? It takes more than simply knowing how to get the perfect swirl to be an ice cream salesman or saleswoman. Frozen desserts come in many forms. Each of the following foods has its own definition, and many are standardized by federal regulations. You don’t want the Department of Justice to come after you for misrepresenting your delicious products to your customers, do you? So brush up on your knowledge by matching the dairy frozen treat with the right description.
1. Ice Cream 2. Frozen Custard 3. Sherbets 4. Gelato 5. Sorbet 6. Quiescently Frozen Confection 7. Novelties 1- E 2- D 3-G 4-B 5-F 6-B 7-A
Answers at left. Warning: Although these are supposedly correct matches, the only way to prove it is if you go right now and buy each variation and test them yourself!
A. Separately packaged single servings of a frozen dessert that may or may not contain dairy ingredients. B. Characterized by an intense flavor and is served in a semi-frozen state that is similar to “soft serve” ice cream. Italian-style is more dense than ice cream, since it has less air in the product. Typically it has more milk than cream and also contains sweeteners, egg yolks and flavoring. C. A frozen novelty such as a water ice on a stick. D. Must contain a minimum of 10% milkfat, as well as at least 1.4 % egg yolk solids. E. Consists of a mixture of dairy ingredients. By federal law, it must contain at least 10% milkfat, before the addition of bulky ingredients, and must weigh a minimum of 4.5 pounds to the gallon. F. Similar to sherbets, but contains no dairy ingredients. G. Has a milkfat content of between 1% and 2%, and a slightly higher sweetener content than ice cream. Weighs a minimum of 6 pounds to the gallon and is flavored either with fruit or other characterizing ingredients.
Riddle me this?
As they sit and eat ice cream together, Jill, Tina, and Rachel are each wearing a shirt which is either green, red, or yellow (not necessarily in that order and only one color per girl). The girl wearing green, an only child, ate the least ice cream. Rachel, who is married to Jill’s sister, had more ice cream than the girl wearing red. What color shirt is each girl wearing?
35 51
Answer to riddle: Tina is wearing green, Rachel is wearing yellow, and Jill is wearing red. Rachel can’t be wearing green because she did not have the least ice cream. Likewise, Jill is not the one wearing green because she is not an only child; thus Tina must be the one wearing green. Likewise, Rachel had more ice cream than the girl wearing red, which must make her the one wearing yellow, since Jill is wearing red.
52
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Torah Thought
Parshas Shoftim By Rabbi Berel Wein
H
uman justice is often unjust, even cruel in the extreme. The barbarism of the Medieval Era was perpetrated in the name of justice. The Psalmist commented ruefully that people construct evil lawfully through legislation and court decisions. The experiences of the past century with Germany, the Soviet Union, Cam-
bodia, Cuba, Iraq, North Korea, etc. certainly suffice to illustrate this sad point. One person’s sense of justice is another person’s sense of injustice… and again, even cruelty. Therefore the Torah commanded us to search for a court of justices who would be honest and moral people, who feared G-d more than they did hu-
Studying in Israel for the year?
o B/m 20 G eed sp high a! dat
Student Rate
$249.99*
For the School Year! *Special rates for parents visiting students in Israel
SIM card and phone rentals *Unlimited Calls *Unlimited Data *Unlimited Texting (in Israel) U.S. Number available rated BEST customer service
359 Central Ave - Suite #3 Lawrence, NY 11559
www.amigo-us.com
(718)258-5200
mans, who were free of preconceived prejudices and social agendas. These types of courts were, as you can imagine, not too abundant and not easily found. The Talmud lists for us such exemplary rabbinic courts, in the second and third centuries CE in the Land of Israel. We have never seen their equal
there are always two sides to every case that the courts hear and decide, the losing side rarely accepts the decision gracefully and with equanimity. There is a great deal of ego involved in all disputes, monetary, political and social. Without courts and judges, anarchy would reign and life would become unlivable.
The Torah deals with the pursuit of justice – the pursuit itself becoming the actual goal. in later generations. Yet the Torah, which is eternal, has set the bar very high for human courts and for justice. It does not demand absolute infallible justice from fallible human beings – a judge can only judge and decide on the basis of what his eyes see and his ears hear – but it nevertheless less warns us of the dangers of willful and even subconscious corruption and personal prejudice. The pursuit of justice is a never-ending goal, even if we realize that its absolute attainment is beyond our reach. The Torah deals with the pursuit of justice – the pursuit itself becoming the actual goal. All of the values of Jewish life are encapsulated in the furtherance of that pursuit. It is a challenge that faces us eternally. We are aware of the constant carping and criticism of our current courts, secular and rabbinic. Since
But confidence in the integrity of the courts and its judges is the bedrock of judicial authority. When that confidence is undermined by corruption, preconceived social agendas and very questionable interpretations of the law, then the effectiveness of the justice system becomes severely impaired. The Torah warns us of this societal danger. We are ordained to pursue justice at all costs. This is especially true in a country that is attempting to combine Jewish tradition and observances with a form of secular democratic government. The pursuit of justice then becomes twopronged, a struggle fought simultaneously on two fronts. May the L-rd help us in this attempt to pursue justice throughout our political and social societies, as well as in our religious world. Shabbat shalom
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
53
54 10
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
From the Fire
Parshas Shoftim The Best Kiruv Tool By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf
E
very Jew carries the weight of responsibility not only for his own actions, but for those of all other Jews as well. As the Gemara (Sanhedrin 27b) says, “All Jews are responsible for one another.” This teaching means that each person is
considered a “guarantor” for every other. This concept of interpersonal responsibility is the basis of, for example, one person’s ability to make kiddush for another even if he has already fulfilled his own obligation to make kiddush. While we have heard
this teaching before and know its implications on a halachic level, how does it actually work? Why should one Jew be held responsible for the actions of others even if they have never met and they live on opposite sides of the world? At the very end of parshas Shoftim (Devarim 21:1-9), the Torah teaches us the mitzvah of Egla Arufa which applies where a dead body is found between two cities. The sages of each city come with a calf to the place where the body was found and perform the ritual of the Egla Arufa and say (Devarim 21:8), “Atone for your people Israel.” And then the parsha concludes (Id. at 9), “And you shall remove the innocent blood from among you when you do that which is upright in the eyes of Hashem.” The Ibn Ezra on this pasuk makes the following brief, but difficult, comment: “I believe the correct explanation is that which I have mentioned, that innocent blood will not be spilled in your land if you do that which is upright in Hashem’s eyes.” The Avi Ezer, explaining the Ibn Ezra’s words, says that if a person does that which is right in Hashem’s eyes in his personal life, the result is that he prevents innocent blood from being spilled and saves the would-be murderer spiritually from the desire to murder. This teaching of the Ibn Ezra has wondrous implications. Hashem created the world in such a way that if I, in my own personal life, live a life of “that which is upright in the eyes of Hashem,” I can prevent the world
from descending to a lower level and lift up the Jewish people to a higher plane of existence. The Gemara (Moed Katan 25b) illustrates this reality by recounting how, after the Amora Rabbi Elyashiv passed onto the next world, there were seventy burglaries in his town of Neharda. Rashi explains that until that time Rabbi Elyashiv’s merit prevented people from committing acts of theft. As long as Rabbi Elyashiv was alive, the power of his holiness prevented at least seventy criminals from carrying out the types of crimes they normally committed. We see that when even one Jew lives according to Hashem’s will, it “remove[s] the innocent blood from among” the Jewish people. The Jewish people become better and there is less murder, bullying, and hatred. How does this take place? How can one Jew’s actions affect people he has never met? Rav Chaim Vital, in his sefer Pri Eitz Chaim (Shaar Haslichos Ch. 8) explains that “the entire Jewish people are one body and every individual Jew is one limb [of that body]. This is the [the underlying reason for] the fact of responsibility, that one person is responsible for his friend if he sins.” Because we are all literally connected, every good thing that each of us do in our private lives uplifts the whole Jewish nation. The Gemara (Avoda Zara 5a) explains a pasuk in Shmuel (2:23:1), which says, “The saying of Dovid ben Yishai, the saying of the man who was placed on high” based on the similar-
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 29, 24, 2015 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER
ity of the word for “placed” which can also mean “established” and the word for “on high” which can also mean “yoke.” The Gemara then taught that Dovid Hamelech established the yoke of teshuva in the world. People had done teshuva before Dovid Hamelech, but the difference was that he was so in tune with the interconnection between all Jews that whenever he did a mitzvah, it was not only for himself, but was done in order to awake and uplift other Jews. His own personal teshuva unleashed a torrent of teshuva within the hearts of countless Jews. The Divrei Chaim of Tzantz once said that in the beginning he attempted to rectify the entire world. But after working for some time, he realized that he would not be able to do it, so he resolved to at least rectify his city. Later on, he saw that even this was not realistic so he decided to just try and fix his family. Near the end of his life, he realized that he could not fix his family so he finally decided to simply try and perfect himself. After working on this for some time, he finally realized that by focusing on
perfecting himself, he accomplished more in improving the world than he was ever able to when he was trying to repair the world. Our goal in life is to do that which is upright in Hashem’s eyes. This does
well because we are an inseparable part of the singular entity called “the Jewish people.” Because of the inner nature of our responsibility for others, we have an unlimited sphere of influence.
Because we are all literally connected, every good thing that each of us do in our private lives uplifts the whole Jewish nation.
not mean we should do it specifically in order to elevate others. But we must know that every good thought, every good word, every good act, every pasuk we learn, every Mishna we understand, every page of Gemara, Tosafos, or pshat in Torah we understand on any level, every time we overlook it when someone slights us in some way counts in the deepest way. By doing any of these things, we rectify ourselves and everyone else as
Rav Kook explains this concept beautifully in the third volume of Oros Hakodesh where he writes: When a person feels Divine inspiration in his soul, he is conscious of the fact that whenever he elevates himself by doing good things and through a supernal awakening of longing for the Divine, righteous wisdom, true beauty and
11 55
uprightness, he purifies the spiritual character of all of existence. All people become better in the innermost parts of their hearts when even one of them strives for a loftier good. He lightens the load of those with a sad spirit, [u’mahul b’nitfei nacham] by powerful awakening of G-d’s mercy in just one soul. Even wild animals and other dangerous creatures become more tame. Even the venom of poisonous snakes is tempered by the cosmic effect of a soul which delights in G-d. May each of us merit to internalize the great importance of every thought, word, and action and never minimize our importance is the great scheme of Hashem’s plan. Rav Moshe Weinberger, shlita, is the founding Morah d’Asrah of Congregation Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY, and has served as Mashpia in Yeshiva University since 2013.
56 14
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Between the Lines
A Pashuter Yid By Eytan Kobre
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. -Leonardo da Vinci
A
hiker once stopped at the embankment of a raging river. Spotting a simpleton on the opposite side, he yelled out, “Hello over there! How do I get to the other side?” The simpleton scratched his
head. He looked at the river. Then at the hiker. Then back at the river. Then back at the hiker again. “You’re already on the other side!” Being simple gets a bum rap in today’s society, but not in the Torah’s view. A precise definition of temimus is difficult to articulate in English – perhaps because the notion itself is foreign to Western culture – but “simplicity is beautiful before G-d… just as He is simple…and His Torah is simple” (Medrash Tehillim 119; Tehillim 19:8). Simplicity is “a lofty virtue” (Mishnas Chachamim 219), and one who is simple is destined for greatness (Nedarim 32a; Sifri, Devarim 18:13; Tehillim 15:2). Indeed, our forefathers are saluted not for cunning or shrewdness but for simple and pure wholeheartedness. Avraham was told to “be simple” (Bereishis 17:1). Noach was “simple” (Bereishis 6:9). Ya’akov was a “simple man” (Bereishis 25:27). And Dovid touted his own simplicity (II Shmuel 22:24). The imperative to “be simple with G-d” (Devarim 18:13) – to some, an absolute positive commandment (Ramban, Eighth Commandment Omitted by Rambam; Sha’arei Teshuva 3:17) – entails acknowledging G-d as omniscient and omnipotent and seeking our needs only from Him. It means we should not attempt to learn the future by looking to the stars or casting lots (Pesachim 113a; Tosfos, Shabbos 156b). It means that we ought to “trust in what He has in
store and not delve into the future…” (Rashi and Onkelos, Devarim 18:13). In a broader sense, it means to do G-d’s will without attempting to know or manage or control all the implications or consequences (Nesivos Olam, Nesiv HaTemimus; Michtav m’Eliyahu, Vol. 5, pg. 110). It means not seeking to outwit or overthink or outmaneuver every aspect of life (Pele Yo’etz, Temimus). It means to accept what G-d gives us, and to recognize and appreciate that we cannot manipulate or even anticipate the outcome. It means we don’t have all the answers, we won’t have all the answers, and we can’t have all the answers. It means we can’t figure it all out. The story is told of a young mother who already had several children when she became pregnant again. This pregnancy was fraught with complications, and her doctors advised her to terminate the pregnancy. Rather than try to outwit G-d, the young woman declined to terminate the pregnancy and, in the end, gave birth to a healthy boy. In all, she had ten children. Years later, all but two of her children were killed by the Nazis (ym”sh). Of the two who survived the Holocaust, one was that little boy who lived because his mother refused to try and outmaneuver G-d. Think that’s amazing? It is. What’s even more amazing: the boy’s name was Elazar Menachem Man Shach – the future leader of Torah Jewry (Aleinu L’Shabei’ach, Devarim
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 29, 24, 2015 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER
13:18). Our task is to act with simple and pure wholeheartedness. G-d handles the rest. The Ba’al Shem Tov was praying together with his students in a small Polish village one Yom Kippur when he perceived that a harsh heavenly judgment had been decreed against the Jewish people. On his orders, the entire village was summoned to the shul to pray fervent-
the head of the famed Navordok yeshiva, R’ Avraham Yoffen, asking for a fitting suitor for his daughter. Of course, the young man just had to be the cream of the crop. R’ Yoffen directed him to a young man named Ya’akov Yisrael Kanievsky (later to become the renowned Steipler Gaon). The wealthy man spoke privately with the boy, eager to learn his goals in life and what he sought most for his family. Much to the wealthy
It means we don’t have all the answers, we won’t have all the answers, and we can’t have all the answers. ly for the evil decree to be averted. The simple shepherd boy was no exception. He did not know how to read; he barely knew the Alef-Bais. But as the intensity in the shul mounted, he had to do something. So he opened a siddur to the first page and began to read aloud, with tears teeming out of his eyes. “Alef, bais, gimmel…” After Yom Kippur, the villagers asked the Baal Shem Tov whether the evil decree had been avoided. “Yes,” the Ba’al Shem Tov explained, “but not because of your prayers. It was the prayer of the simple shepherd boy. He knew only the Alef-Bais, but he recited it with such simplistic and naïve purity that G-d rearranged the letters to compose the most beautiful, heartfelt prayer. And that prayer is what saved us.” To be sure, simplicity has its limits. Expounding on the directive to “be simple with G-d” (Devarim 18:13), the Chofetz Chaim noted, only half in jest, that we can afford to be simple only when we are “with G-d” – i.e., when we are engaged in spiritual pursuits; when engaged in worldly pursuits, however, we must be more guarded and wily. But it would be a mistake to allow reality to harden our view of the world and rob us of our innocence. A wealthy man once approached
man’s disappointment, the boy responded, “Fear of Heaven. That’s all I want. Fear of Heaven for me. Fear of Heaven for my wife and children. Fear of Heaven in my home.” R’ Yoffen later met with the wealthy man to find out whether the proposed match was suitable. “Oh, no,” the wealthy man shook his head. “The boy is far too naïve. All he wants is Fear of Heaven.” When R’ Yoffen later told him about the wealthy man’s criticism that he was too simple and naïve, the boy – destined to become the foremost Torah authority of his time – laughed. “How simple and naïve is that man to think that there is anything of consequence but Fear of Heaven.” * * * R’ Nachman of Breslov predicted a time “when a simple good man will be as remarkable as the Ba’al Shem Tov was in his day” (Chayei Moharan 454). Nowadays, such a man may be yet rarer. In fact, the more we reflect on the quiet greatness to be found in simplicity and guarded naiveté, the more we realize that being “a pashuter Yid” isn’t all that pashut. Eytan Kobre is a writer, speaker, mediator, and attorney living in Kew Gardens Hills. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? E-mail eakobre@outlook.com.
with over 20 years of experience and thousands of satisfied customers we offer you, the latest style custom kitchens to suit every taste and dream. exclusive dealer of
Today's Kitchen 202-a Rockaway Tpke, Cedarhurst, Ny 11516 P (516) 371-1100 • F (516) 371-1101
15 57
58 16
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
The Observant Jew
Climate Control By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
W
hen I was a youngster, we moved to New Orleans, LA, in August – in the middle of a heat wave. It was 105 degrees every day with humidity of 98%. “How do people live here?!” we wondered. It turns out that you go from the air-conditioned house to the air-conditioned car to the air-conditioned office and so on. While you can’t control the temperature outside, you can make sure that you stick to areas where you are comfortable and your forays into the uncomfortable areas are minimal. On a recent trip to San Antonio, TX, I pondered this again. As I walked into the beautiful large synagogue, I was struck by the fact that it was quite warm and even a bit stuffy. As I entered the chapel where weekday davening is held, however, it was nice and cool. In thinking about it, I realized how much sense it made. Why waste energy cooling a space no one is using? By only focusing on the areas you’re using, you make the most of your resources while ensuring a comfortable space for prayers. Especially when you’re talking about communal money, you should be wary of wasting it. That incident gave me the insight for this article, and while the takeaway for me had nothing to do with actual air-conditioning, it had everything to do with environmental
control. It’s not a new concept. When a diver goes into the ocean, there is no air for him to breathe. That’s where scuba equipment makes the difference. An acronym for Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus, scuba gear enables the person to bring what they need, in this case breathable air, with them to an inhospitable environment. Spacesuits are the same thing. They keep out the vacuum of space and enable the astronauts to not only breathe, but to remain warm and not freeze to death outside their vessels. If not for this protective gear, they would be goners. This idea of creating a comfortable environment for yourself, where you can breathe freely because you’ve changed your immediate surroundings, is brilliant for everyone on many levels, and especially for Jews. You may remember a conversation I had with my Rosh Yeshiva, R’ Chaim Stein, z”l. After I’d moved to Monsey, I went back to Cleveland for a business meeting and took the opportunity to visit him. He asked me how I liked it in my new home. I told him that it was pretty good, but that my neighborhood didn’t have the type of “kedusha, holiness” and spirituality I had hoped. I really wanted a more soul-conducive atmosphere. His response to me was, “So YOU bring the kedusha.” It hadn’t occurred to me that I didn’t have to go
somewhere that was perfect but that I could instead make it more perfect myself. It’s just like the scuba gear in which I strap the tank onto my back and take it anywhere. Instead of wishing or hoping the people around me would be “upwardly mobile” in a spiritual fashion, I can surround myself with those people by establishing my own perimeter of breathable air that includes Torah, kind words, and filters out lashon hara. By doing so, I automatically limit my interaction with people of unlike mind because they can’t breathe in that atmosphere. It’s my own self-created safe space. By setting up these parameters, I also force myself to breathe that way. I make sure I now have a climate-controlled environment that I can be comfortable with. And it goes further. When I’ve established the boundaries in which I feel comfortable, I become acclimated to behaving that way so when I’m not in that surrounding I still have that bubble around myself. Let’s say I’m at a gathering and people are (Heaven forbid!) talking about other people (or inappropriate topics, using vulgar language, etc.). Even if it isn’t negative now, you know how quickly things spiral out of control. If I keep myself in check and don’t participate, and I try to change the subject, I’m limiting my exposure to the problem speech. I’ve even been called out on it, “Oh, he’s here. We’d
better watch what we say because he doesn’t speak lashon hara.” They say it with a mixture of sarcasm, sympathy, and wistful respect, reminding me of what my little niece said when her cousin wanted her to play cops and robbers with her. “Sorry, we don’t play with guns. My mommy doesn’t believe in killing.” They know what’s really right and how it’s their oxygen supply which is being polluted, but by establishing control of my own immediate environment, I’m giving others a chance for a bit of fresh air too. We can all establish these personal spaces for ourselves and gradually purify the air around us. Keep in mind, we don’t need to try to do it for the entire world or building – because when we do it for ourselves that may be all it takes to control the local climate.
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.
© 2017 – All Rights Reserved
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
59
38 60
OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home AUGUST 24,
Elul: The Time for Closeness By Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller
“R
emember! Only 30 more shopping days left!” The last week of November was a magical time back in the “Old Country.” I never endangered my life shopping at Filenes which, in those far off times, was only in Boston. Macy’s was still the site of many near-death experiences for those of us who like the adrenalin rush of hunting for bargains. The nonstop hype was delivered breathlessly and repetitively. “Just today, ladies and gentleman. Yes! Just today!” was a typical opening for a 10% reduction on socks. It all ended with New Years, leaving precious little behind in its wake, other than the disheartening return to facing the juggernaut of routine soul-numbing life as usual. Everything is different when the Jewish month of Elul arrives. It, too, is 30 days before the Big Day, which in this case is Rosh Hashana. It is not a time in which we strive to find some sort of balance between shopping and dropping. It is a time of love, yearning, reconciliation, forgiveness, and return. What does “return” really mean? What are we trying to get back to? Jeremiah proclaimed, “Return, virgin of Israel, return to these, your
cities” (Jeremiah 31:20). We are compared to a virgin, who can at last return to her betrothed groom, and to an exile who is able to return to the land now rebuilt, that was last seen empty and desolate. No one can return to a place they have never been to. Have we ever really felt close to G-d and yearned for Him the way a bride yearns for her beloved? Have we ever really
ed to the Jewish nation as a whole, glued to the news. How many Katyushas? Do I know anyone in Haifa? What can I do to help?
BODY AND SOUL MICROCOSM The difference between the way we relate to Elul and how we relate to the end of November is a microcosm of the way we relate to our bodies and
It is as though an invisible curtain that we ourselves designed through bad choices, fear and pain can now be drawn aside.
identified so closely with the fate of the Jewish people that our personal achievements fail to provide us with enough satisfaction to dull the ache of national estrangement from what we were meant to be as a people? For many of us the answer is silence. And for many there are moments of beauty and connection that we wish would last forever. There are times when we feel totally connect-
our souls. The body wants to own, to buy more and more. The soul wants connection, deeper and deeper. The great illusion of life is that the body (which we all intellectually recognize as only mortal) feels real and permanent. The soul (which we all know is infinite since it part of G-d Himself), feels vaguely unreal because it is intangible. The sages tell us, “One moment of
return and good deeds in this world is worth more than the whole life in the World to Come” (Ethics of the Fathers, 4:17). This is the world of enormous spiritual opportunity. It is the setting of “trial by fire,” as our passions, jealousies, petty hatreds, burn within us. Every victory has profound impact on our connection to G-d and to man. In the deepest sense, our self-esteem is built, brick by brick, by choosing to conquer our impulsivity and cravings. The problem is that we are too myopic to see the panoramic vista that this sort of battle opens up within us. We are too busy fighting. We fail, again and again. We let our failures define us and erode our belief in the fact that we are fighting a winnable battle. We all too often submit to the dictates of our bodies and silence the yearnings of the soul. We give up the struggle. One of my recurring nightmares is one in which I see myself as a patient in an old age home. I am sitting near a Formica table in a large room with a T.V. blasting away at no one in particular. Lunch, served in cheery orange melmac, is in front of me. My last words as I leave the planet are, “I asked for white meat.” That’s it. No Shema. No bedside farewell accompanied by blessings
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER The Jewish Home | AUGUST 29, 24, 2015 2017
and moral instruction. The winner and all time champ is the body, soon to be interred in the earth from which it was formed. In my worst nightmare the soul is the undisputed runner up in the most significant race that any one of us will ever run. What makes it even worse is that daylight doesn’t relegate the nightmare to the cobwebs of subconscious thought; the fearful vision is completely plausible. In fact, the Talmud tells us that there is no way that the soul can possibly win the battle without help from its Creator.
G-D IS NEAR This time of year is the time when G-d’s closeness to us is most easily grasped. It is as though an invisible curtain that we ourselves designed through bad choices, fear and pain can now be drawn aside. Elul is compared to the time of year that G-d, by way of parable, is likened to a human king who resides in his palace and is virtually inaccessible to the average person. Once a year, the king tours his kingdom with the goal of getting to know his subjects. Anyone can go to the royal personage and tell Him whatever is on his mind, and in his heart know that the King is there to hear him. How do we find the King? There are various practices for Elul that attunes us to its power. 1. Recite Psalm 27. King David, the Talmud tells us, was given some of Adam’s lifespan. Thus, like Adam, his soul is a composite of every soul that will ever be placed in a body. The book of Psalms gives us words that touch the essence of every possible human experience from the deepest possible angle. Psalm 27 is the one that helps us resolve the conflict between our bodies and our souls. The first verse says it all, “G-d is my light.” This means that He not only created the physical world, but He guides us through it
with His light. Just as turning on a light in a dark room helps a child to recognize that lions and tigers are really just coat racks and blankets, we can similarly let G-d’s light remove our fears, sins, and limitations. 2. Reciting Selichot. The Selichot prayers begin in Elul (Sephardic Jews begin on the first of Elul, while Ashkenazi Jews begin the last Motzei Shabbat) and continue until Yom Kippur. The main theme in Selichot is the 13 Attributes of Divine Mercy. G-d revealed His true nature to Moses when he begged to know God as much as a mortal can. Ultimately G-d is unknowable. Our ability to know is limited by the fact that we live in time which distorts our sense of reality. We are physical and have short lives and have enormous emotional subjectivity. Because G-d is unknowable and transcendental, we try to make Him smaller, so to speak, so that He seems more approachable. The worst manifestation of this was the building of the Golden Calf. Moses wanted words that would give the Jewish people access to G-d as much as humanly possible. Each of the 13 attributes exist within us as well. When we join together as a group and proclaim these attributes aloud as we do during the Selichot prayers, we affirm who G-d is and who we are. This has such force that the Talmud tells us that the attributes always generate change. Here is a brief rendition of the attributes and their meaning. 1-2: “G-d,” “G-d” (the four-letter Yud-Heh-Vav-Heh): The Almighty is telling us that He is unchanging. He has infinite compassion for us before we sin, knowing that we are only human, and when we fail to live up to our humanity He is open to our changing and returning. Because of this, His name, which means “Being,” is invoked twice, once for before and once for after our
fall and return. 3. “The Force”: Unlike human compassion that is limited by our patience and fragility, G-d’s compassion is comparable to an unstoppable force. 4. “Who is Merciful”: He gives to the “poor”; those of us who are impoverished spiritually 5. “And full of Grace”: He gives freely and in abundance 6. “He is Patient”: G-d gives us time to change, and when we must endure suffering in order to change our direction, He gives it only to the degree that the person’s individual situation demands. 7. “And has much kindness”: G-d chooses to judge us favorably when our motivations are mixed 8. “And true”: Even if someone has made many mistakes and done terrible things, G-d will still reward him for whatever good he has done. 9. “Creates kindness for thousands of generations”: He empowers the forces of good to endure forever. An example of this would be that literally everyone who is alive today is affected by the goodness that Abraham, our forefather, did in his lifetime 10. “Carries sins of desire”: G-d will allow sins to act as a springboard to bring a person to a higher level than they ever could have achieved without repentance. An example would be the case of someone who takes on himself to keep kosher and is tempted every time he passes a non-kosher eatery. 11. “And sins of rebellion”: Even when a person is so full of self that he feels a need to control or attack every human or G-d-given law, if he opens himself up G-d will broaden him enough to see beyond the limits of his ego. 12. “And sins of negligence”: When the source of sin is a passive, uncaring and alienated relationship to life, the source is invariably despair that
39 61
comes from thinking, “Nothing I do makes much difference anyway.” G-d will give the greatest gift of all – hope – when there is willingness to take responsibility. This is true even if the underlying attitude has been there for years. 13. “And cleanses.” Even the callousness that is the seemingly inescapable result of developing bad patterns of responding to life and to other people can literally disappear through teshuva, repentance. When we mirror these traits to all of the imperfect people in our lives (meaning everyone including ourselves), we find the G-dliness that is latent in all of us and strengthen its voice. When we do our best to change, we must make an honest appraisal of who we are and the choices we made to emerge as we are now. When we do this honestly, we will notice that we have made mistakes. The first step to change is confessing what went wrong within us to G-d. No person should be involved. No one can give spiritual clarity; no one can erase spiritual and emotional damage. The second step is to recognize that all bad choices are ultimately damaging and to give yourself permission to feel regret. The third step is to make practical, down-to-earth changes in behavior. If the sins affect other people, then there are two additional steps. The first one is to make material restitution where that is a relevant possibility (for instance returning money that you know is not yours if you use the Torah’s standards), and the second is to achieve reconciliation by asking forgiveness. Let’s be sure to use the month of Elul well, to let it draw us to living authentically, and to feel greater openness, love and forgiveness. This article has been reprinted with permission by aish.com.
62
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
9
My Israel Home
Park Hamesila: An Urban Oasis By Gedaliah Borvick
W
hat do you do with almost 4.5 miles of old, abandoned train tracks left in
disrepair? The Jaffa-Jerusalem Railway was completed in 1892 and operated for over one hundred years until 1998. In 2005, Israel Railways opened a new Jerusalem station at the Malcha Station. The unused tracks between Malcha and the old Jerusalem Railway Station became neglected and filled with litter. The Jerusalem Municipality’s initial plan was to replace the deserted train tracks with a road, along which new residential projects would be developed. Sounds like a perfect solution for a city saddled with strong pent-up demand for new housing units. However, in 2008, residents of the neighborhoods that bordered the abandoned tracks, together with newly-elected mayor Nir Barkat, presented a vastly different vision: to create an easily accessible green oasis within the capital’s urban fabric. The residents’ resolve and solidarity helped them emerge victorious, and Park Hamesila – or Train Track Park – was completed in 2013. The rolling park includes a board-
walk built on the old tracks, a bike path, and open spaces with benches and playgrounds. Train-related elements, such as signal towers, were preserved, and plaques with information about the his-
Park Hamesila has become a wonderful meeting place for runners, bikers, friends and families. For example, my son shared with me that a large group of young married couples who live in the
Park Hamesila has become a wonderful meeting place for runners, bikers, friends and families.
tory of the railways were created and installed along the path. Park Hamesila begins in the German Colony at the historic old railway station near Liberty Bell, which was recently renovated and transformed into a vibrant cultural and entertainment complex. Renamed First Station, the facility hosts many shows, children’s activities, sports programs, cafes and restaurants. Park Hamesila snakes through many neighborhoods and landmarks, and terminates near the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo.
German Colony, Old Katamon and Baka – some of the neighborhoods bordering the park – meet bi-monthly for a Shabbat picnic lunch at the park. The whole notion of repurposing the abandoned train track into an urban park, versus the traditional approach of placing parks into valleys – such as Sacher Park – was an exhilarating exercise in rethinking urban space usage. This creative, “out of the box” approach has permeated every aspect of the park. For example, instead of merely discarding
two obsolete bus stops, the municipality collaborated with students from the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design to convert them into free public libraries. These libraries jettisoned traditional library lending rules and allows people to borrow, swap and donate books at their leisure. The Jerusalem Municipality’s original plan to replace the abandoned tracks with much-needed housing stock – to draw young families to Jerusalem and to raise funds for the city – was rejected. Ironically, the creation of Park Hamesila has succeeded to achieve both goals: the park’s trails and beautiful grounds have become a tourist attraction, which has been a boon to the city’s economy. In addition, many young families have been drawn by Park Hamesila’s wholesome charm and have moved into neighborhoods adjoining the park. Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home, a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@gmail.com. Please visit his blog at www.myisraelhome.com
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
63
26 64 26
P
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
rime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been the face of the State of Israel since 2009. It’s hard to imagine the country without the smooth talking, presentable leader shaking hands and reaching across aisles, making treaties, and fighting for his people. But trouble seems to be swirling for Bibi. Netanyahu is now under investigation for bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. These separate cases involve “graft,” or illegal gifts from wealthy friends, as well as backdoor deals with a media mogul in exchange for positive coverage. Though these investigations have been ongoing for months, recently public scrutiny intensified when a major Netanyahu insider and supporter cut a deal with the police. Netanyahu’s former chief of staff and one of his closest friends, Ari Harow, agreed to testify in exchange for a slap on the wrist – six months of community service and a $200,000 fine – in Mr. Harow’s personal business case. A former aide remarked that Harow was so entrenched in Netanyahu’s personal, familial, and national obligations that “someone like Ari would see it all” and, in this deal, will report it all. Because of this, some Israelis see Harow’s deal as a jail sentence, calling Netanyahu “already a dead man walking.” Furthermore, Netanyahu had two weeks
to disclose call logs of conversations with Sheldon Adelson of Israel HaYom. Earlier this month, Netanyahu’s Likud Party organized a rally in Tel Aviv, and Netanyahu went on the offensive, telling the 2,000 supporters who attended the rousing event, “We know that the left and the media – and we know that it’s the same thing – is on an unprecedent-
creased the turbulence surrounding Netanyahu’s tenure in government. There are certainly rumblings within and without the party, and polls are showing a small decrease in public support. However, any indictment is months away, and most Israelis do not see Netanyahu moving out of the political arena imminently. Bibi, apparently, will not go down without a fight.
“We know that the left and the media – and we know that it’s the same thing – is on an unprecedented hunt against me and my family to bring down the government.”
ed hunt against me and my family to bring down the government. They are putting unrelenting pressure on the legal system in order for them to present an indictment without any proof.” This is Bibi’s fourth term as prime minister, making him Israel’s longest-serving leader since David Ben Gurion. These accusations, implications, and investigations have in-
Israel’s attorney general, Avichai Mandelblit, was once a cabinet secretary, chief military judge for Gaza and the Southern Command, and the military’s advocate-general. An ethical and professional civil servant who has challenged Netanyahu before, he has worked closely with Netanyahu. Critics and supporters are mixed on Mandelblit’s role in the slow-moving pace of the indictment:
some say that he is taking his time to build a stronger case. Others say he is reluctant to prosecute a friend. Crowds gather at his home every Saturday night demanding indictments. However, the keystone in the case is Harow, who will provide the important – and possibly damning – evidence against Netanyahu. As with most cases, these things take time, and prosecuting Netanyahu may be months or years away. Still, many like Daniel Levy, president of the U.S. Middle East Project, feel like “we are at the beginning of the end.”
T
here is no precedent for this: no former prime minister has been charged with a crime while in office. Should Netanyahu be convicted, he does not have to resign. Should the police recommend filing charges against him, the state prosecutor and attorney general would have to agree as well. Public opinion and pressure, however, especially in a bribery case, are “hard to survive.” Ehud Olmert, for example, was forced from office in 2008 (he stayed on as a “caretaker prime minister” until elections were held) while under investigation for bribery, fraud, obstruction of justice, and breach of trust. After leaving office, he was indicted and was recently released from prison after serving
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 29, 24, 2015 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER
Netanyahu with former chief of staff Ari Harow
16 months of his 27-month prison term for his crimes. Publicly, Netanyahu has refused to become mired or distracted by the investigations. He has broadcast erev Shabbos greetings on Facebook, called the legal uproar “background noise,” and ensured the Israeli people that he is staying the course, running the state, and continuing to expand settlements. He has addressed the cabinet and has focused on a state visit from the president of Togo. Netanyahu’s supporters see the investigations as a witch hunt and a power grab. A minister from the Likud Party, Tzachi Hanegbi, said that “at this stage, by law, every Israeli citizen, and certainly the prime minister, must be presumed completely innocent.” Another Netanyahu ally, Miri Regev, minister of sports and culture,
the family’s residences. Earlier this month Israel’s Channel 2 reported that Mandelblit is set to indict Sara for using public funds to meet her private housekeeping expenses. It is said that the four felonies that she may face can involve hundreds of thousands of shekels. One felony is for improper use of state funds in her late father’s medical care. Another felony refers to purchasing garden furniture for the prime minister’s residence and then moving it to their private home. Yet another felony stems from exaggerating meal expenses at the prime minister’s residence. Channel 10 said that the police suspected that NIS 11,000 worth of food was ordered to the prime minister’s residence, even though receipts say the food was intended for the prime minister’s office. This kind of action
“But in the same breath they would say, ‘But there’s nobody else.’ It’s the same thing now.”
said, “I’m not worried at all. The prime minister is not worried either.” At the same time, a number of Netanyahu’s close associates are also under investigation. One of those scandals involves a $2 billion submarine and missile ship deal with a German supplier. The Israeli agent involved in the case has also signed a deal with the government. In his personal life, Netanyahu’s wife, Sara, has been questioned for a fourth time regarding accusations that she has misused public funds at
is forbidden because the prime minister’s residence has a chef, and food is not supposed to be ordered and paid for with state funds. In defense, the Netanyahu family issued the following response: “Yair Netanyahu is vegetarian, Avner and Mrs. Netanyahu almost never eat meat, and the prime minister does not consume food worth thousands of shekels from a steak house. It would be interesting to find out the housekeeper’s part in these orders from 2011.” The Israeli press reports that
27 65
Netanyahu with Arnon Milchan, back in 2005
Sara likely will be indicted soon. The Netanyahus’ oldest son, Yair, has been behaving crudely in public – not cleaning up after the family dog on a walk in the neighborhood, for example, and cursing the woman who told him to do so, posting rants and crude emojis on social media – and arguing with Ehud Olmert’s son on social media. A Netanyahu indictment would be a blow to Israel, as well as to Donald Trump who sees Netanyahu as
his closest ally in the Middle East and who is preparing a new Middle East peace initiative, one that Trump has dubbed as the “ultimate deal.” At this point, any moves toward a peace deal would be viewed cynically by Israelis as an attempt to appease the Israeli left. Opening peace talks would be perceived as an act meant to ensure that, in the case of an indictment, the left would not recommend that Netanyahu resign so that he could continue talking peace. Net-
66
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
28
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
anyahu, therefore, seems to be acting in the best interests of the right and shoring up his base. The ultimate deal will not be struck anytime soon.
Supporters at the Likud rally earlier this month
Details about the Charges The Israeli press has taken to numbering the corruption charges against Netanyahu, a move that underscores the number of charges against him. “Paper Chase” Case 2000: Netanyahu colluded with Arnon Mozes of Yediot Acharonot to undermine the distribution of the free daily Israel Hayom, sponsored by Las Vegas billionaire and casino owner Sheldon Adelson. Mozes would do “everything in his power” to keep Netanyahu in office, and Netanyahu, through legislation, would limit Israel HaYom’s reach. Tapes of their conversations were recorded by Ari Harow, the chief of staff who cut the deal with the police. The tapes were found on a police raid of Harow’s home in an investigation against Harow whether he fully divested himself from his consulting firm before working for the prime minister. “Visa? Not Priceless” Case 1000: Film producer Arnon Milchan gave large monetary bribes to Netanyahu and his wife. An Australian billionaire gave the Netanyahus lavish gifts – think cigars and pink Champagne – and meals in Caesaria. Netanyahu’s wife apparently demanded $2,700-worth of jewelry. While these gifts may seem legal – and the Netanyahus say they are – Milchan has a stake in Israel’s Channel 11 news, regulated by the once-Netanyahu-directed Israeli Ministry of Communications. Netanyahu personally assisted in Milchan’s American visa renewal. “In zu tief, in die tiefe” Case 3000: This case is most loosely connected to Netanyahu and involves the purchase of German submarines.
Netanyahu’s Role in Israel and On the World Stage Netanyahu, articulate and domi-
An exhuberant Netanyahu told supporters at the rally that the left is investigating so they can bring his government down
nant, has been the political phoenix of Israeli politics. He has become, according to the New York Times, “synonymous with the state on the world stage.” Because there is no clear successor to Netanyahu, Israel without Netanyahu and a natural and traditional progression is perceived as weak. The Middle East and the world have become accustomed to Israel with Netanyahu at its lead. Netanyahu may have had contentious relationships with world leaders such as Barack Obama, especially when it came to the Iran deal and settlement expansion, but Netanyahu has known Donald Trump since the 1980s and was a friend of the late Fred Trump. Netanyahu has strong alliances with leaders such as President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. Under Netanyahu’s leadership, Israel’s global reach increased with the world seeing Israel as a leader in intelligence, counterterrorism, and technology. And while the Arab world has become less stable, Netanyahu has maintained relative stability in Israel. Should Netanyahu leave, the Times contends “a departure would leave Israel, its allies and its enemies in uncharted terrain.” Political analyst Dahlia Sheindlin
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
67
emphasizes that most Israelis feel conflicted about losing Netanyahu at the helm. Before the last election, people wanted a change. “But in the same breath they would say, ‘But there’s nobody else.’ It’s the same thing now.” Netanyahu has granted a rare political stability to the country. He is a cautious man who has avoided the drama of leaders like Rabin and Sharon. His supporters believe that the future of Israel depends on Netanyahu’s remaining in office. His rivals believe that ousting Netanyahu will solve Israel’s problems. But both agree on one thing: whether Netanyahu stays or leaves is of great importance to the future of Israel.
68 40
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Dating Dialogue
What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
I’ve been dating Debbie for several months now. We are both 24 and have a lot in common. Our dates are fun and we’re able to talk about serious matters and I would say that Debbie is the closest that I’ve ever found for myself in finding someone who feels right for me. We share many of the same goals and standards and it all fits. There’s just one problem: Debbie is always fixing things – me, etc., whether it’s telling me that I should tuck my shirt in because it will look neater or suggesting very strongly what I should order from a menu when we eat out. It feels like she’s always on my case about something. I know her intentions are good and it’s coming from a caring place, but it just feels so uncomfortable for me to be told what to do or how to do things. I’m not used to anyone telling me how to be and I resent it and often react probably too strongly. I have told her in a very direct way that I don’t like it when she gives me instructions or rules. She says she understands but then just goes right back to behaving like my mother! (Even my mother wouldn’t go as far as Debbie goes!) I think she really can’t help herself. It’s like a habit she can’t seem to break. Though I think I love Debbie, I’m afraid that if I get married to her it will get even worse and I’ll be miserable. Should something like this be a deal breaker? Is there a way to get through to Debbie or are people like her stuck in their behaviors and I shouldn’t even try or ever expect her to change?
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather 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.
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015 The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
41 69
The Panel The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.
D
o you want to live with an enforcer of rules? Do you want to be the child in a marriage instead of the partner? Of course not! Being at the receiving end of constant instructions and rules is a deal breaker. A relationship is not a project. You have given the relationship a lot of time and you have been very honest with Debbie. Since she cannot keep herself from giving you rules and hasn’t been open about her needs for perfection and control, it’s not even worth going into couple therapy for this young woman. Although you have been honest in your query and own up to reacting
too strongly, if she hasn’t addressed this, a relationship like this seems doomed. Use the experience as a blessing, a wake-up call to remind you how to handle criticism from people who care about you. Learn to communicate your feelings in non-threatening ways and grow from this.
The Mother Sarah Schwartz Schreiber, P.A.
D
uring the fifties, way before your parents’ time, America laughed at the zany antics of Ralph Kramden, the shlubby hero on “The Honeymooners,” and his demanding wife, Trixie, who wielded a wild roll-
ing pin. They found humor in Fred Flintstone, the hapless Caveman, who was kept in line by his adorable wife, Wilma, who disciplined the scoundrel by tugging at this necktie. Today, the concept of the henpecked husband is anachronistic and no longer funny. Your relationship with Debbie (although it sounds like you sincerely respect her) is unbalanced. Debbie, as you have detected, is a bit of a control freak. Even before marriage, she’s calling the shots and keeping you in line. She’s acting more mother-like than your own Mom. Trust your gut. Unless you love Debbie and the uber-controlling dynamic in the relationship, walk away. Only a professional can help Debbie do the work it takes to be a supportive, nurturing wife. At the same time, you may benefit from speaking to a therapist to help you understand why you would even consider such a stultifying, restrictive marriage. Twenty-four is too young to begin serving a life sentence.
The Shadchan Michelle Mond
dating with jen ad
T
his is a very difficult predicament to be in! On the one hand, you mention that you love this woman and she is the closest you have ever gotten to marrying someone. On the other hand, you can’t stand her suggestions regarding what you should change! You cannot assume it will go away when you’re married. You must assess whether this is a character flaw or her trying to endearingly help you become more put together. If it’s the latter, it could be she really appreciates you, however, it bothers her that you’re clueless aesthetically. If she is inherently a sensory type of person who notices small details, and you come to dates with your shirt only half tucked in, shoes untied and with smudgy, dirty glasses, this will
Once you’re married, she’ll probably just up the ante, and you’ll be lucky if you’re allowed to pick out your own socks. undoubtedly bother her. As much as she works on herself, she will want to tell you to “fix” these things because it is something she would want to be told if it was her in question. If, however, you believe this falls under the “controlling tendencies” category (because only you know the dynamic in your relationship and it is not for me to judge knowing only a snippet), I would urge you to think deeply about why you still want to be in this relationship. In conclusion, I do not think this is anything you can expect her to change. If you feel she is just very sensory and likes upgrading how you present yourself, you will have to be okay with her suggestions before jumping into marriage. If you feel her suggestions are inappropriate and controlling, either end things now or sit down with a therapist who can discuss the long term effects of such a relationship, so you can make an informed decision.
The Single Tova Wein
S
ome women talk about going out with a guy who is fabulous in every way but who just needs a bit of a makeover. The kind of guy who has never heard of getting his shoes shined or making sure his glasses can actually be seen through! Some-
70 42
AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
times, with some friendly suggestions, a formerly somewhat unkempt guy can look like a real winner – and everyone is happy! However, any woman who feels it’s her right to tell someone what to order in a restaurant is way out of line. That spells CONTROLLING any way you look at it. So we’re not just talking about a little tweaking here. We’re talking about someone who will tell you how to live every aspect of your life. Shockingly, some guys can go for
that. They want to park their brains at the front door and allow their wives to do all the thinking for the two of them. But it doesn’t sound as though you’re that guy. You are very clear about how much it bothers you and even find yourself having strong reactions (to no avail). Therefore, staying with Debbie is looking for trouble. Once you’re married, she’ll probably just up the ante, and you’ll be lucky if you’re allowed to pick out your own socks. I think you need to say “so long”
Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
W
hen the man in the relationship displays this kind of behavior we wave a HUGE red flag and scream, “CONTROLLING!” A man who tells a woman to tuck in her shirt or tells her what to order at a restaurant is immediately considered foul and offensive. I’ve noticed that sometimes there can be a bit of a double standard and we are quick to assume that a woman who behaves in this way is simply “tough” or “runs a tight ship.” As a society, we don’t call this behavior “abusive” as quickly as we would if it were a man. Just throwing that out there. Only you can make this decision. I can’t tell you what to do, in my office or in a column. You may want to meet with a therapist for what may be VERY short term therapy in order to weigh this decision and explore your options. But yes, this behavior is a huge red flag. Strongly telling you what to order from a restaurant?! It really does sound like a mother/son dynamic. Every couple has a “dance,” an interactive, cyclical pattern of behaviors they engage in, that with
time often become predictable. If this isn’t nipped in the bud now, this may turn into the “Naughty Boy, Angry Mommy” mambo or “Micromanager Boss, Disgruntled Employee” cha-cha. As other panelists mentioned, Debbie’s behavior is unlikely to improve once you are married and it is more than likely that it will increase. Not only will Debbie have you to pick apart, but she will have your new home to critique. Additionally, she will likely create a lot of rules for you in your new home. The main thing that concerns me about Debbie, aside from her critiquing you, polishing you and ordering for you, is that you have already spoken up for yourself (great job, by the way!) in a very direct manner, and she went right back to her old behaviors. Not good. This means one of two things. She is so set in her ways that she doesn’t realize she is doing it or she does realize she is doing it and she doesn’t care enough about your feelings to stop. So, in situations like this, I advise
to Debbie and explain why. If by doing that it shakes her up enough to encourage her to seek help for her control issues and she calls you one day and tells you that she’s all fixed, you may want to give it another shot. But take your time, so that you can feel truly confident that Debbie has truly changed her ways. Such tendencies don’t go away without a great deal of work!
If this isn’t nipped in the bud now, this may turn into the “Naughty Boy, Angry Mommy” mambo or “Micromanager Boss, Disgruntled Employee” cha-cha.
the individual who is not heard to seek his own therapy, as I mentioned earlier. You may realize that you can’t stay another minute in this relationship and you will decide to break up. Or, you may realize you are not quite ready to break up, but you are ready to consider giving an ultimatum. That word often sounds scary and even mean-spirited to many people. If you don’t like the word ultimatum, then replace it with the word choice. You can give Debbie a choice: Debbie, I care for you deeply and I love so much of our relationship. I’ve never had these feelings for anyone else. I want to be with you. However, as I mentioned before, I really don’t like it when you tell me what to wear and choose my order for me at restaurants. I feel smothered. I need to feel like an equal, not like your son. In order to stay together, I need you to respect my choices, the way I look, what I order at a restaurant – everything. If she breaks up with you after you lay down your ground rules, good riddance! If, however, she has an “aha moment” and expresses her sincere regret about her behavior, then you will decide if you want to pursue things further. You would need to see lasting change (which means you can’t get married any time
too soon). It would be a long road ahead. The desire to be in control doesn’t just disappear into thin air, and there are no guarantees that it would reappear at some later point in time. Both men and women deserve to feel respected, admired and adored in their relationships. Healthy couples in long term marriages work hard to preserve these notions, even when their spouses don’t necessarily deserve it. You’re only in courtship and Debbie feels very comfortable to behave badly. Red flag. Let’s get the ball in your court. Debbie doesn’t call all the shots. You asked if you can change her and the answer is simply no. You will tell her your ground rules and if she wants to change, the ball is in her court. But the rules of the game have to change now. If she doesn’t want to play, you need to find a new teammate. Good luck! Sincerely, Jennifer Mann, LCSW
Esther Mann, LCSW and Jennifer Mann, LCSW work with individuals, couples and families in Hewlett, NY. As The Navidaters, they specialize in dating and relationship coaching. To set up an appointment, please call 516.224.7779. Sessions are held in the office or via Skype. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email thenavidaters@gmail.com. Visit their website, thenavidaters.com for dating and relationship advice and to learn more about their services. Follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram. Check out the hit web series Soon By You, and be sure to tune into the Navidaters After Show!!
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
Low Cost Quality Insurance
Our Specialty Free Consultation
Free Policy Evaluation
Ask the Rabbi !!?? The Rabbi loves a bargain (a metzia) Let the Rabbi help you save money (up to 50%)
¾ ¾ ¾ ¾ ¾
Large Commercial Insurance Policies Life Insurance Disability Insurance Self Employed Health Insurance Long Term Care insurance Rabbi S. M. Leiner, CLTC
Licensed Independent Broker for All Types of Insurance
Call: 917‐543‐0497 – Leave a message
Mail: Rabbi S. M. Leiner, CLTC P.O. Box # 7655 600 Franklin Ave Garden City, NY 11530
Premier clients receive a copy of my book (sefer) “Sweeter Than Honey” as a gift
71
18 72 18
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
Health & F tness
Your Child & Healthy Eating By Tzivie Pill
M
y parents had the best intentions when they started controlling my food intake in grade school. It was painful for them to see their once thin and active child gain weight and be in a less than “ideal” body. I was a happy, carefree
child until parents, pediatricians, and other influential adults decided that my weight was a problem and my eating habits were to blame. Before that, food was something to be enjoyed, and my body was simply the way I got to race across the monkey
bars. Afterwards, my body became an enemy I had to fight, and food became something bad that had to be policed and controlled. Once the dark cloud moved in over my head reminding me that there was something wrong with me, it followed me for the next twenty years through yo-yo dieting, disordered eating and negative body image. My experience is sadly all too common. However, as parents, we can make that sort of experience rarer by focusing less on the what and more on the how when it comes to feeding our children. All good parents want to help; they want to teach their children to be healthy, productive individuals and to set them up for a lifetime of success and happiness. Parents of children in larger bodies tend to view diet, exercise, and weight-control as a panacea. I understand the impulse to “fix” our children’s health, but the weight-loss focused approach of diet and exercise is not only unhelpful, but in the long term potentially dangerous to our children. More often than not it leads to weight gain, disordered eating, and even serious eating disorders. Today, I work as an eating psychology coach helping women heal their relationships with food and their own bodies. Many of my clients began their unhealthy food and body relationships in much the same way that I did, at a young age when their parents, doctors, and others made issues of their eating habits and weight. So many children spend their formative years being told that their weight is a problem and being criticized and
policed over their appetites and food choices. Nutritional knowledge, tips for self-control, and diet regimens are drilled into their heads, but typically the only thing they have to show for it is poor self-esteem, guilt about their bodies and food choices. Focusing on weight loss typically backfires: Eighty to ninety-five percent of people who lose weight on a diet end up gaining back that weight and more. In one study of Minnesota teenagers, researchers found that dieting – not extremely limited diets, not major crash diets, but all dieting – increased the teens’ risk for developing eating disorders. When we teach children about portion control and manipulate their food choices, this registers to them psychologically as a restriction on their food, which in turn can lead to feelings of food obsession and binging, which leads to guilt and shame when they eat beyond their “allowed” amount. In other words, this is unwell, disordered eating waiting to happen. It is not surprising, therefore, that in a recent statement the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly affirmed that diet talk and the pursuit of weight loss are harmful for children because of the increased risk of obesity and eating disorders. The problem is bigger than just disordered eating and poor body image, however. (Though, that is surely enough!) Children do not compartmentalize the way adults do. I know that when someone criticizes my size as an adult it is not a reflection on the totality of my life or of me as a person. When a child is told that there is something wrong with their body, weight, or eating habits, they typically take this as critique of their
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015 The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
how fun and fantastic their body is – dance! Laugh! Tickle! Play! 2) Raise competent eaters ... for the long run. As children grow up, they learn each day to be more independent and will rely less on you. So let’s fire the food police and lay a foundation of
whole being. As Ellyn Satter, MS, RD, MSW, a pioneer in the field of childhood feeding, puts it, if children “are seen as flawed in one way, they experience themselves as flawed in all ways.” We all care about the health and wellbeing of our children. But maybe it’s time we shift our focus on how we approach our children’s health because the way we have been doing it isn’t working. If talking to children about healthy eating is supposed to guide them away from obesity, why are we still having this conversation? If we want to properly help our children develop healthy relationships with food and their bodies, there are no easy fixes and no magic diet formulas. We have to address behaviors around food rather than hyper-focus on the types, amounts, and frequencies of the foods our children eat. Where do we go from here? Here are a few pointers that can help you get started on making small, slow, but lasting and effective, positive changes in how you and your children approach food and body issues. 1) Love Them. Your job as a parent is to love your child and their body, no matter what size, unconditionally. It can be hard to see your child in a body that you didn’t wish for them but children are smart and they can sense your disappointment and concern. Your child is perfect and they need to know that you know it. There will be plenty of outsiders to tell them otherwise, so he or she needs to know from you that his or her body is exactly as it should be. You can even take it a step further and celebrate
meals each week, but more is better. If busy schedules make this too hard, try to at least have children sit down together with whichever parent is available during mealtimes. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but creating family mealtimes gives children so much to celebrate and look forward to each time there is an eating opportunity and makes
Your job as a parent is to love your child and their body, no matter what size, unconditionally.
behaviors that will allow them to make intuitive food choices that are right for their body for whatever situation they are in. One approach to raising a competent eater is Ellyn Satter’s “Division of Responsibility (sDOR).” This framework teaches us to trust our children’s natural ability to eat while nourishing them in a way that does not feel restrictive. Restrictive feeding can lead children to mistrust that their parents will provide adequate and enjoyable food and this can lead to binging – behaviors we want to avoid when raising competent eaters. You can read more about this in Ms. Satter’s book, Your Child’s Weight: Helping Without Harming or find a weight neutral registered dietician for one-on-one guidance. 3) Food as an enjoyable experience. Create positive food-related memories for our children. I remember sitting around my Bubby Ella’s table with my cousins, laughing and blowing bubbles into our chocolate milk. I still love chocolate milk to this day. A great way to foster enjoyable experiences around food is by enjoying family meals where we can eat, laugh, and talk about our days. Many of us are already ahead of the game, as we already have two family Shabbos
it less about food and more about a wholesome experience. This isn’t about getting it all right all the time. This is about having a
19 73
mindset shift today so that we feel more wholesome and confident in our children’s bodies for a happier tomorrow. I know if we all put our best foot forward we can experience a world where all kids get to stay kids, where the sun shines brightly on them, and their world is filled with joy, laughter and rows of monkey bars ready to be mastered. Tzivie Pill is a certified eating psychology coach and MSW candidate at Wurzweiler School of Social Work. She is also an administrator of “Intuitive eating and body positivity for Jewish women,” a Facebook community of over 2,700 women providing support and resources for a weight neutral approach to health. Tzivie is currently an ELITalks fellow and will be delivering her talk on body image and dieting in the Jewish community this fall. She currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and seven-year-old daughter.
74 6
AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
Health & F tness
Diabetes is More than Just a Sugar Problem By Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN
I
n 2010, approximately 24 million Americans had diabetes. Currently, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 29 million Americans have been diagnosed with Type II diabetes. In seven years, five million more Americans developed diabetes. One in four people with diabetes don’t know they have the disease. It’s absurd how fast the Type II diabetes epidemic is escalating. Diabetes can be defined as a disease in which a person has chronic high blood sugar (more than 200mg/ dL fasting blood glucose) due to the body’s lack of insulin production or because the cells are not responding to the insulin that is being produced. Thus, the glucose receptors inside the cells do not take the glucose from the blood, resulting in high blood glucose levels, hyperglycemia. However, the problem is that diabetes is not simply a “sugar” problem. Aside from the complications of elevated blood sugar, diabetes is a major risk factor for heart disease, which
is the most common cause of death in diabetes patients. Having diabetes means that you are more likely to develop heart disease and have a greater chance of a heart attack or a
cose from diabetes can damage your blood vessels and the nerves that control your heart and blood vessels. The longer you have diabetes, the higher the chances that you will
How does diabetes increase one’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease?
stroke. How does diabetes increase one’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease? Firstly, most of the risk factors for diabetes are risk factors for heart disease as well, such as being overweight or obese, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, alcohol, and family history. However, diabetes itself has a strong link to cardiovascular disease. Over time, high blood glu-
develop heart disease. Diabetes may also accelerate the rate at which atherosclerosis forms and may cause the plaque to be unstable, leading to a heart attack or stroke. If you have diabetes, you can protect your heart and health by managing your sugar, as well as your blood pressure and cholesterol. All diabetics should institute lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes include healthy
eating habits and a balanced diet. A healthy diet consists of plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, low fat dairy, and nuts and legumes. Stay away from foods high in sugar and try to steer clear of artificial sweeteners as well. The beverage of choice should be water. Along with a healthy diet, include physical activity into your lifestyle. Try to exercise for 30 minutes two to three times a week. Smoking and alcohol should be addressed as well. In addition, drugs such as cholesterol-lowering statins, aspirin and blood sugar-lowering should be considered for all type 2 diabetes patients. 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. She is currently a dietitian at Boro Park Center and a private nutrition consultant. She can be reached at CindyWeinberger1@gmail.com
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
see what’s in store
75
Lord&Taylor/Bloomingdales Week
76 36
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Health & F tness
Helping Our Children Succeed By Dr. Hylton I Lightman, MD, DCH (SA), FAAP
I
’m heartbroken. Mishpacha magazine’s interview with Avreimie and Rivka Klein, the grieving parents of the late Malky Klein, a”h, is gut wrenching. Malky tragically overdosed on drugs this past June. Popular amongst her peers, Malky struggled academically. She was evaluated by the New York City Board of Education but there was no diagnosis. She received extra help in school: being pulled out of class negatively affected her. Unfortunately, no high school accepted Malky. The 9th grade school term was days old when a high school finally accepted her. Yet this start proved false and Malky was soon expelled. Three months passed before her parents found her another school. Determined to succeed and supported by her parents, she immersed herself in her studies. After completing 9th grade on a strong note, she independently approached the principal of the high school of her choice to request a transfer. The answer was no. Malky’s one-way, rapid descent with a thud into an underworld that no parent or child should ever know was launched, at full speed. This story is told from the viewpoint of parents who tried everything to help their daughter. Unbiased it’s not. Nevertheless, there are several points which can help others. If a child struggles academically, determine why. The same thing holds true for a child struggling socially. Parents: Be proactive. Tell teach-
ers that you want to hear from them and not wait only for parent/teacher conferences. Involve the principals and learning specialists especially if you suspect something is amiss. Educate yourselves. Network to learn what your child’s struggles might mean. Social media and communities of similar parents can be helpful. Your pediatrician is also a resource. School district evaluations can be important starting points. Supplementing them with private evaluations can zero in more efficaciously on problem and weak areas. Evaluations should elicit useful, practical information – in other words, a diagnosis. Because once there’s a diagnosis, a plan of intervention with goals, modalities of treatment, and a timeline can be formulated and tailored to the individual child. The bottom line: No one will advocate more effectively for the child than the parents. It will be tiring. It feels like pushing the boulder uphill as the boulder threatens to run out of control and trample everything in its path. So be it. As always, daven. Further, every child – “alef,” “beis” or otherwise – deserves a school. A preschool. An elementary school. A middle school. And a high school. I understand that some high schools refuse to universally accept their middle school students. But please – all schools must work together to make sure that no child is left out and/or left behind. Unfortunately, the principal with whom Malky met after ninth grade is
not a minority. How careful we must all be in our interaction with others as all people are created b’tzelem Elokim.
I
t’s no secret that there can be a direct line from kids having learning issues to kids who become “at risk” and experience the awful spectrum of drugs, illicit relations and worse. At the root of all learning issues are weaknesses in reading and/or kriah. It’s time to develop and institute universal reading and kriah evaluation programs, starting with the end of pre-1A and then being conducted throughout the elementary school years three times annually – before the school year begins, mid-year, and at the end of the school year. Why evaluate during the latter part of pre-1A? Phonemic awareness is a prerequisite to children learning how to read. Weaknesses in this area can emerge during this school year. It’s an opportune time to identify them and with, appropriate intervention, nip them in the bud from developing into larger problems. Reading and kriah are fundamental to our curricula. Yet too often, they are assumed or taken for granted. Mistake. Our children need to be drilled in the fundamentals in elementary school so a firm foundation is established upon which everything else is built. No doubt it will cost money. But it’s small change in the larger picture and think of the problems they will prevent. As the new academic year looms,
even small changes can be implemented. For example, every student should be required to read out loud, both Hebrew and English. Yes, it may identify learning issues. As important, studies have demonstrated that reading aloud can achieve the following: Sharpens one’s focus Introduces and increases vocabulary Results in greater comprehension Gives a person an opportunity to play with intonation (and makes reading fun) Exercises different parts of the body Improves listening and reading skills Helps children recognize what reading for pleasure is all about Of course, parents reading out loud to children from an early age has untold benefits. At some point, children can read to parents. This is great for bonding and will give parents insights into their children. Avreimy and Malky Klein are courageous to go public with Malky’s story. They are using their unfathomable pain to help others. May they be successful. And may Malky’s precious neshama enjoy a lichtige Gan Eden. Dr. Hylton I. Lightman is a senior statesman amongst pediatricians, an internationally-recognized authority and diagnostician, a public speaker, expert witness and go-to resource for health issues in the Orthodox Jewish community.
12
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
In The K
tchen
Lachmajin By Naomi Nachman Who doesn’t like to eat pizza? Especially a meat pizza. These mini-meat pizzas have a Sephardic origin and can be served as a mezze (appetizer) along with other selections of mini appetizers. These are so quick and easy to make, and they freeze really well. I try to keep a container of them in my freezer in case I need a quick ready-to-serve hors d’oeuvres for guests.
Ingredients 1 lb. chopped meat 1 cup prune butter 1 large onion, chopped ¼ cup tomato paste ½ cup ketchup 1 TBS salt ½ tsp allspice 1/8 tsp cinnamon 1/8 tsp pepper 1 pkg mini pizza rounds by Mazor 1 cup pine nuts
Preparation Mix all the ingredients except the pizza rounds and pine nuts together and refrigerate for two hours to let the flavors concentrate. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and spread out the pizza rounds. Spread a heaping mound of meat filling onto each dough round, making sure you spread it all the way to the edge. It shrinks as it cooks so be generous. Press down the meat firmly so it sticks to the dough. Sprinkle each piece with a few pine nuts. Bake until golden brown, about 30 minutes. 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 | AUGUST 24, 2017
77
78 30
AUGUST 24, OCTOBER 29,2017 2015| The | TheJewish JewishHome Home
Notable Quotes “Say What?!”
The Kremlin just released photos of Vladimir Putin on vacation. Putin was like, “Forget about the dad bod, feast your eyes on the Vlad bod.” – Jimmy Fallon
As much as people complain about Trump going on vacation, at least he keeps his shirt on. - Ibid.
The Mars Curiosity Rover celebrated its fifth year in space by humming “Happy Birthday” to itself. The Rover then drank a bottle of white wine and cried itself to sleep. - Conan O’Brien
Taco Bell announced it will begin selling a potato-rito, which is beef, cheese, potatoes, and chipotle spice wrapped in a tortilla for $1. Or, for the same nutritional value, just eat the dollar.
I stand by my man. Both of them.
- Seth Myers
Today, in the 2018 elections, if you vote for a Republican, you’re supporting Donald Trump. This has now become a referendum. If you want to vote for a racist in the White House, then you better vote for Republicans. But if you want to vote for Democrats and really have change, that’s where I think America is going.
If you’re going to come to the melting pot, melt a little bit. You’ve got to melt a little. You can’t take a driver’s license photo in a burqa. We have to see your face. - Bill Maher, HBO
- Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao on President Donald Trump’s feud with her husband, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell
– Howard Dean, former DNC chairman, on MSNBC
Students will consider the perils and possibilities of different political practices, including abolishing whiteness or coming to terms with white identity. What is the future of whiteness?
Goy, bye! - Headline on Huffington Post announcing Steve Bannon’s departure from the White House which is staffed by many Jews
- From a course description at Stanford University titled “White Identity Politics”
MORE QUOTES
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
79
80
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
31
A pair of New England Patriots players were kicked out of practice this week after getting into a fight during drills. Wow, even the New England Patriots hate the New England Patriots. – Seth Myers
American history is not all glorious... George Washington was a slave owner. We need to call slave owners out for what they are. Whether we think they were protecting American freedom or not, he wasn’t protecting my freedoms. To me, I don’t care if it’s a George Washington statue or Thomas Jefferson, they all need to come down.
I hope Trump is assassinated! - Facebook post by Democratic Missouri State Senator Maria Chappelle-Nadal
Let’s Blow Up Mount Rushmore – Title of an article on the popular alt-left website, Vice.com, arguing for exactly that
- CNN’s Angela Rye
There will be questions if what happened in Barcelona was at all a copycat version of what happened in Charlottesville, Virginia. – CNN’s Wolf Blitzer after radical Islamic terrorists carried out an all-too familiar attack in Barcelona, killing 15 people
Kim Jong Un says he’s decided not to fire missiles at Guam. Then Trump said, “You mean I learned where Guam was for nothing?” - Jimmy Fallon
That’s what ISIS is doing over in places – there were pieces of history that they didn’t like, they were taking them down. Where does it stop? Is it going to be Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson or are we headed into Jefferson, Washington, who were both slave owners? How deep into history are we going to go? If you don’t like it, don’t look at it. - Country singer Charlie Daniels on Newsmax TV
Study what General Pershing of the United States did to terrorists when caught. There was no more Radical Islamic Terror for 35 years! - Tweet by President Trump after the Barcelona attack, referencing General Pershing who, while fighting radical Muslims in the early 20th century, instructed his soldiers to dip bullets in the blood of pigs, since pork is forbidden in Islam
There’s some nasty weather moving up the East Coast right now, known as Tropical Storm Gert. When they heard, people named Gert were like, “Oh, come on, my life’s bad enough as it is!” - Jimmy Fallon
Jews are not here permanently. I tell my congregants: Don’t think we’re here for good. And I encourage them to buy property in Israel. This place is lost. Don’t repeat the mistake of Algerian Jews, of Venezuelan Jews. Better [get out] early than late. - Chief rabbi of Barcelona Rabbi Meir Bar-Hen, in an interview with JTA, warning that Spain is “doomed” because they don’t want to confront radical Islamic terrorism
Black Lives Matter, the Antifa movement, and so on are interested in preserving the fabric of America. - CNN commentator Michael Eric Dyson
MORE QUOTES
32
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
The Democrats, the longer they talk about identity politics, I got ‘em. I want them to talk about racism every day. If the left is focused on race and identity, and we go with economic nationalism, we can crush the Democrats. - Steve Bannon in an interview with the American Spectator last week, before he left his post at the White House
I’m never sore. I could practice every day. I could practice twice a day if they let us do that, but that’s not the way it goes anymore. – Tom Brady, who recently turned 40, talking to reporters after practice
Last month’s story that Trump is a Russian agent has been totally eclipsed by this month’s story that Trump is a Nazi, KKK, white supremacist. – Mark Stein
Costco has to pay Tiffany’s $19 million for selling 2,500 fake Tiffany rings. Husbands don’t know what’s worse: having to tell their wife her ring ISN’T from Tiffany, or that it IS from Costco. “I’ve got bad news and worse news...” - Jimmy Fallon
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
81
From Oregon, the Great American Eclipse will travel through Idaho and Wyoming. (It will catch a tiny unpopulated piece of Montana, too.) Percentage-wise, Idaho and Wyoming are even whiter than Oregon. And as in Oregon, but even more so, the few non-white residents of Idaho and Wyoming are not black – they are mostly Latino, American Indian, and Alaskan... From Kansas, the eclipse goes to Missouri, still mostly bypassing black people, though now much more improbably. About a third of Kansas City, Missouri, is black, but most of the city lies just south of the path of totality. To get the full show, eclipse chasers should go north to St. Joseph, almost 90 percent white and about 6 percent black… Moving east, the eclipse will pass part of St. Louis, whose overall population is nearly half black. But the black residents are concentrated in the northern half of the metropolitan area, and the total eclipse crosses only the southern half. – From an article in the alt-left Atlantic by Alice Ristroph
Eclipse Alizabeth Eubank - The name given to a baby who was born in South Carolina on August 21 by her mother, Freedom Eubanks, who is, evidently, no stranger to odd names
I’m not going to breathe the same air as that terrorist. – A recently disclosed text message from Steve Bannon to a friend explaining why he didn’t plan on attending a May 3rd White House meeting between President Trump and PA leader Mahmoud Abbas
In Washington, D.C., yesterday vandals spraypainted graffiti on the Lincoln Memorial. Historians are calling it the second worst thing to ever happen to Abraham Lincoln. – Conan O’Brien
82 8
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Political Crossfire
Does a Permanent Treaty with North Korea Make Sense? By David Ignatius
A
fter weeks of belligerent rhetoric, North Korea took a pause last Tuesday. But where is the mercurial Kim Jong Un headed next? U.S. officials are debating whether he may want direct talks with Washington about a formal treaty to replace the 1953 armistice agreement that ended the Korean War. The U.S. has been pursuing a dual path, threatening military conflict (semi-believably because of President Trump’s verbal thunderbolts) while also urging stabilization of a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. The diplomatic trick here is simultaneously reassuring North Korea, China, South Korea and Japan that their vital interests would be protected. This process of negotiation was hinted at last Sunday by Secretary of Defense James Mattis and Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. In an oped for The Wall Street Journal, they warned North Korea to “take a new path toward peace, prosperity and international acceptance” or face increased isolation. Tillerson’s one, fuzzy condition for negotiations has been that Pyongyang demonstrate its seriousness by halting missile and nuclear tests. Arguably, Kim took a grudging step in that direction last Tuesday, when the Korean Central News announced that he had decided to “watch a little more the foolish and stupid conduct of the Yankees,” rather than carry out his threat to launch four ballistic missiles toward Guam. Kim’s problem in the escalating
crisis has been that he faced a united front from the U.S. and China – backed by South Korea, Japan and Russia. Beijing has joined Washington in calling for denuclearization and supporting additional U.N. sanctions, including a ban on new Chinese imports of North Korean coal, iron ore, and lead. Grateful for Chinese help, the Trump administration appears to have backed off its threat to sharply limit Chinese steel exports and to have shelved measures that could affect internet giants Alibaba and Tencent. Instead, the administration on Monday called for an investigation of China’s theft of technology and trade secrets – a serious problem
a rogue nation that delights in defying international norms and now does so with nuclear weapons. One approach to the North Korea riddle is the possibility of a peace agreement. The armistice specified that it was only a “cessation of hostilities ... until a final peaceful settlement is achieved.” North Korean propaganda describes the document as “an abject declaration of surrender.” But the regime understands that it’s a hinge point, too. Pyongyang announced suspension of the armistice three times, in 2003, 2009 and 2013 – only to return to observing its precepts. As U.S. officials ponder the path of negotiation that might lead to a
But the centerline of this crisis is the same question that has vexed U.S. policy for decades – how to deal with a rogue nation that delights in defying international norms and now does so with nuclear weapons.
for American companies but not one that requires an immediate penalty. Trump’s rhetoric has been almost as volatile as Kim’s, ranging from his statement in May that he would be “honored” to meet the dictator to his warning last week of “fire and fury.” But the centerline of this crisis is the same question that has vexed U.S. policy for decades – how to deal with
permanent treaty, they have signaled several basic American positions: First, the U.S. would offer assurances to North Korea that its regime wouldn’t be toppled; second, it would guarantee the security of South Korea, a close U.S. ally; third, Washington would pledge not to seek any quick reunification of the Korean Peninsula, reassuring China and Ja-
pan, which fear a unified, resurgent Korea; and finally, the U.S. would express willingness to discuss the future status of its military presence in South Korea, if a peace agreement proves durable. Tillerson has already publicly offered the first three assurances. The fourth is the most delicate, because all parties recognize that, for now, U.S. troops are an essential stabilizing force, curbing not just Pyongyang, but greater militarization in Seoul and Tokyo. Though North Korea’s nuclear-weapons program is often seen as a matter of regime survival, some U.S. officials are skeptical of that rationale. After all, conventional deterrence – in the form of hundreds of North Korean artillery and rocket launchers that target Seoul – has checked any attack on Pyongyang for three generations of Kims. B.R. Myers, whose 2010 book The Cleanest Race is being closely read by U.S. officials, argues that North Korea isn’t really a communist regime, but one propelled by rightwing talk of Korean racial purity. Its goal may be the “victory” and unification it failed to achieve in 1953. A Chinese-American partnership has helped move this crisis back from the brink. But that’s a sideshow for Kim. The encounter he may truly want is with the deal-maker himself, Donald Trump. For that showdown, you could sell tickets. (c) 2017, Washington Post Writers Group
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
Which one of these children needs Chai Lifeline? (Hint: They all do.) Chai Lifeline is renowned for the care and love it bestows on children fighting cancer. But that’s only the beginning. Chai Lifeline serves thousands of children with medical challenges that aren’t evident on the outside, everything from Crohns Disease to cystic fibrosis to heart disease and illnesses so rare only a handful of children have been diagnosed. And still, that’s only the beginning. Chai Lifeline includes siblings and parents, too, with programs geared towards the entire family. We care for more than 5,000 children and their families around the world and across the street. Chances are, you know them. They just don’t look sick.
Whenever, wherever we’re needed, Chai Lifeline is there.
Chai Lifeline. Comprehensive, compassionate, professional assistance for families facing illness, loss or trauma. 151 West 30th Street, New York, NY 10001 I (877) CHAI-LIFE I (212) 465-1300 I www.chailifeline.org
Regional Offices: Greater New York I Southeast I West Coast I Midwest I Mid-Atlantic I New Jersey I Canada I England I Israel I Belgium Hospital Support: Meals | Transportation Assistance | Hospital Visits | Respite Children’s Programs: Arts and Recreational Activities | After-school programs | Sibling Programs | Educational Assistance in Limudei Kodesh Counseling for patients and siblings | Camp Simcha/Camp Simcha Special Family Programs: Advocacy and Information | Retreats | Insurance Advocacy | Family Recreation | Family Counseling | Bereavement Services Community Programs: Project CHAI, support for schools, camps, and communities facing crisis or trauma.
83 9
84
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
7
Good Hum r
Falafel Follies By Jon Kranz
T
here are many wonderful reasons to visit the Land of Israel. The reasons vary but it’s safe to say that regardless of the “official” reason, many Jews have at least one ulterior motive for hitting the highway to the Holyland. It is a delicious motive that happens to be Israel’s unofficial culinary cornerstone, an unparalleled delicacy that, like a jolly good fellow, nobody can deny. It is not quite an entrée but it’s so much more than an appetizer. It’s not really a meal but it’s not just a snack. When done right, it can make all of your troubles disappear, if only for a few bites. Of course, we’re talking about the fierce, fantastic and phenomenal ... falafel. Yes, many cultures have signatures sandwiches. The Vietnamese have the bánh mì (no, not bánh you, bánh mì), Cubans have the Cuban (how original), the filthy have the sloppy joe, Louisianans have the po’boy, Mexicans have the burrito, and Greeks have the gyro, which often is pronounced hiro and is the most similar to the hiro (and hero) of Israel: the falafel. The question is: why is falafel so popular in the Jewish state? Technically, falafel are balls of fried chickpeas but falafel also refers to a pita filled with falafel balls and other essential elements like hummus, techina, Israeli salad and pickles. Strangely, if a vendor were to offer a fried chickpea sandwich, customers may not be overly enthused, but if the same vendor shouts “falafel,” there will be a line around the block. Other foods have somewhat misleading names like a hamburger (a ground beef sandwich) or a hotdog (an intestine stuffed with meat slurry, pink slime and nitrates). In contrast, no name could be more transparent
than chopped liver. Some scholars believe that the Hebrew word “falafel” derives from the Arabic word “falafil,” which means peppers. This may be why many falafel stands in Israel offer hot sauce as a condiment that is commonly made from hot peppers. Those visiting Israel may find it difficult to tolerate Israeli hot sauce, which can be more intense and ferocious than Friday morning shopping in Machane Yehuda. When you stop and think about it (but don’t do so in the middle of a busy intersection), the falafel and the Jewish People have a lot in common: Falafel involves a family of differ-
Jewish survival mentality? Falafel is not easy. It can be difficult to manage and it sometimes can get out of hand. The struggle of a truly great falafel, however, ultimately leads to a wonderful, transcendent outcome. Does that not encapsulate the essence of the Jewish experience? With all of that said, working as a falafel vendor in Israel is not an easy job, especially when dealing with annoying tourists. I sincerely hope that falafel vendors in Israel never have to experience the following type of interaction: Customer: Hi there. Do you sell falafel?
Those visiting Israel may find it difficult to tolerate Israeli hot sauce, which can be more intense and ferocious than Friday morning shopping in Machane Yehuda.
ent ingredients crammed together to coexist into one small pita. Is that not a metaphor for the incredibly tiny yet extraordinarily diverse State of Israel? Falafel is whipped together at a frenetic, dizzying pace, with each ingredient jammed together in culinary chaos. Does that not accurately describe the bedlam of trying to board a busy Egged bus? Ordering falafel at your average falafel stand is not for the reticent. It requires a certain level of assertiveness and even chutzpah. You must be sufficiently pushy to get exactly what you want. Does that not describe the
Vendor: Ken. Customer: No, my name is Larry, not Ken. Vendor: Pita or laffa? Customer: Sorry, no parlez vous falafel, Señor. Capishe? Vendor: Do you speak any Hebrew? Customer: Only one word: sandvich. That means sandwich, right? And that’s exactly what I want, a falafel sandwich. Vendor: Hummus? Customer: “Hummus” be kidding me with that question! Yes, of course. Hummus me! Vendor: Salat?
Customer: Yes, it’s a lot, but I’m really hungry. Vendor: No. Do you want salat or, as you say, salad? Customer: No, no salad. No soup. Just falafel. Vendor: No, my friend. Do you want salad in your pita? Customer: What kind of salad? Vendor: Israeli salad. Customer: Duh! We’re in Israel so of course it’s Israeli salad. You’re so silly. Vendor: Cheeps? Customer: I’m not cheap. I’m just not in the mood for a sit-down meal. Vendor: No, no, no. Do you want chips? Customer: You put potato chips in falafel? Vendor: No, chips are French fries. Customer: No, I don’t want French fries in my falafel. That’s like putting a sombrero on a chassid. Vendor: Tahini? Customer: Never been, but I’ve heard it’s a beautiful island. Vendor: No, not Tahiti. Tahini, you know, techina. You like it saucy? Customer: Don’t you dare get saucy with me. I’m a paying customer. Vendor: Hot sauce? Customer: How hot is it? Vendor: It hasn’t killed anyone yet. Customer: Alright. Vendor: But one can always hope. Last but not least: After stealing falafel for a second time, a thief was imprisoned because he was a “re-pita-ffender.” Jon Kranz is an attorney living in Englewood, New Jersey. Send any comments, questions or insults to jkranz285@ gmail.com.
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
VE I S LU C X E
CAHAL IS HIRING
Assistant Teachers
2017-2018 FULL TIME / PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE
Judaic and General Studies NEW CLASSES Grades K - 8
Apply Today! Send resume and references Shira@cahal.org or call: 516-295-3666
INTEGRATE D in Community Yeshivas
5 TOWNS FAR ROCKA WAY
85
4 86
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Forgotten Her es
Drones Taking Over the Skies By Avi Heiligman
The OQ-2 UAV
M
any military strategists see the future of air force aviation in UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles). Drones, as they are popularly known to the public, have been around since the early days of flight. Inventors have experimented with pilotless bomb-filled or torpedo planes and balloons for over a century. During World War II drones were used to train aerial gunners, and it was in the 1950s and 60s that air forces began to realize that there was a way to use unmanned planes in combat. In particular, the U.S. and Israel quietly started using them in war for mainly reconnaissance missions. Today, Israel is a leading manufacturer, exporter and user of drones. It took several decades to perfect the idea of sending a remote control plane over enemy territory to do more than just take reconnaissance pictures. The most current drones are outfitted for combat and used to support ground troops. Pilotless planes have many advantages over planes with a human inside. Drones
The GNAT-750
can stay in the air longer, as many of the features required for human capacity, like air tanks and a seat, are removed. The UAV is therefore smaller and can evade enemy radar better. Also fuel capacity and consumption make it that it can stay above the target areas for long periods of time. Of course, the main advantage is that it can be piloted from the ground and the pilot is in no danger of losing his or her life. Experiments on drones came to the forefront of aircraft production during WWII. The first mass-produced UAV was the American-built OQ-2, with about 15,000 models built. It was these planes that gunners used as target practice. While it didn’t have much impact in shortening the war, the idea was there to stay. After the debacle of Francis Gary Powers being shot down over Russia in his U-2 spy plane, UAVs were needed to fill the intelligence gap. The small but reliable Ryan 147Bs would be flown off of C-130 Hercules and take pictures over enemy territo-
ry. The drone would then be picked up off of the coast of Taiwan and the film sent to analysts. Other drones, like the Ryan Firebee, came into use in the late 1960s but at least six were downed by the Russians. Luckily no American lives were lost. The Israelis wars in the 1970s and 1980s saw drones over enemy territory in the Middle East for the first time. First used in the War of Attrition with Egypt, Israel continued development of drones. Russia had been supplying missile batteries to Egypt and Syria during the Yom Kippur War. UAVs were sent to spy on these batteries and intelligence was quickly sent back to IDF commanders in time to warn IAF planes. At the beginning of the 1982 Lebanon War, Israel sent drones that sent back data to IAF planes. Syrian air defenses were neutralized and no Israeli pilots lost. The most famous drone of all is the Predator. It is the latest in a long line of drones developed by Israeli engineer Abraham Karem. He was the chief designer for the IAF before
immigrating to California. Starting his research in his garage he came up with a peculiar-looking plane he called the Albatross. The plane won the attention of the military when it was demonstrated that it could stay aloft for an incredible 56 hours without refueling. Karem’s company won a contract and developed a new drone called the Amber, which had limited success. However, the Amber didn’t go into full scale production, and Karem was forced to sell his company to General Atomics, although he remained part of the team. In 1993, during the Bosnia War, the CIA was looking for another option instead of grainy satellite images and looked to General Atomics for an answer. They had it in the GNAT-750 which proved to be a game changer and called the program the Lofty View. The CIA director said about the GNAT: “I could sit in my office, call up a classified channel and in an early version of e-mail type messages to a guy in Albania asking him to zoom in on things.” But the GNAT still had operational problems so General
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015 The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
The Predator
Atomics came up with the Predator. Many modern UAVs use imbedded GPS technology and are fully automated, requiring very little ground input during its flight. The IAI Heron “Shoval� is a prime example of this and can stay airborne for up to 52 hours at a time, although most missions are 30 hours or less for the older models. Herons perform several types of missions including reconnaissance, providing intelligence for ground troops and searching for soldiers missing in action. It came into action in 2006 while searching for
Gilad Shalit, who had been captured by Hamas. With only a single engine it is silent and is virtually undetectable by enemy radar. Turkey, Germany, South Korea, Brazil and the U.S. have IAI Herons in their aerial arsenal, and several more countries are in talks to purchase them from Israel. 3-D mapping for remote areas is done by drones and has purposes for both military and civilian use. In 2013 the Royal Canadian Mounted Police used a drone with heat-seeking technology to locate a hiker in
distress. Many countries that have small air forces employ drones. Currently the U.S. is believed to have the largest drone force in the world (the most recent number the author found was 7,500 but that was back in 2012). Iran shot down an American drone in 2011 and claimed they replicated its capabilities, although experts say that it is very unlikely. The American Navy has been experimenting with drones for decades and recently launched the first successful UAV off a carrier. It was a miniature version of the B-2 bomber, and it was built with the assistance of Israeli engineers. Without going into too many details, certain drones are outfitted with bombs, missiles and other weapons systems to fight ISIS, the Taliban and other global terrorist threats. To date, they have been quite successful, and many terrorist leaders never see the missiles coming from a drone before being killed. Israeli-built Hunter drones have been used by the U.S. since the.1990s. The Department of Homeland Security uses Hermes-450 drones to track
5 87
illegal smugglers at the U.S.-Mexico border using borrowed techniques from the Israelis who track illegal activity in Gaza and the West Bank. The Mexican government has seen these drones in action and have went to Israel to buy them for their own use. Drones are here to stay and already are in use for civilian purposes. Amazon wants to use drones for deliveries and to save on shipping costs. Remote control planes are toys of the past, and now drones are fast taking to the skies for recreational purposes. Weather stations use drones to track hurricanes and can stay with the stormy weather when other manned aircraft cannot handle the turbulence. Whatever the future holds for drones, it definitely will improve the lifestyle for people worldwide. 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.
88
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Classifieds SERVICES
HOUSES FOR SALE
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
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
NORTH WOODMERE New Listing 492 Golf Court Tropicana High Ranch, Cul de Sac, 6Br, 3Baths, EIK, Dining Room, 4000+ SF, Walk to Temple, Multi Levels Patios, Sundeck. Open House Every Saturday and Sunday 12-5, or appointments 516-205-1655 Asking $789,000
VISION HOME INSPECTION 718-921-1211 / 516-595-8566 Call or visit us www.visionhomeinspection.com to schedule your home inspection 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 & style hair & wigs Hair and wig cutting, wedding styling Private lessons or in a group Call Chaya 718-715-9009 SHALOM HANDYMAN Plumbing, heating, boiler, installation, sewer, locks, dryer vent cleaning and more… CALL 917-217-3676 Yoga & Licensed Massage Therapy Peaceful Presence Studio 436 Central Avenue, Cedarhurst Separate men/women Group/private sessions Gift Cards Available www. Peacefulpresence.com 516 -371 -3715 GERBER MOVING FULL SERVICE MOVING Packing Moving Supplies Local Long Distance Licensed Insured 1000’S Of Happy Customers Call Shalom 347-276-7422
Reach Your Target Market
Classifieds
BEACH 4TH STREET FAR ROCKAWAY 1 family Ranch, detach, 4 bedroom, 3 bathrooms, finish basement, driveway garage. Private beach. Asking $550,000 access call now All Going Realty 212-470-3856 ~ 516-206-2005 148 Doughty Boulevard, INWOOD Opposite Inwood post office CEDARHURST: PRICE REDUCED GREAT STARTER HOME - Mid-Block Location in the Heart of Cedarhurst, 3BR Colonial, Variance Approved for Expansion, Near All…$520K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com CEDARHURST: Center Hall Colonial on Quiet Cul-De-Sac. Backing The Golf Course. 5 Bedrooms, 4 Full Bathrooms, Large Eat-in Kitchen, Den, Finished Basement, Attic, Heated In-Ground Pool, & Much More!!!...$1.3M Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com HEWLETT: NEW LISTING 3BR, 2.5BA Exp-Cape In SD#14, Den W/Sliders To Florida Rm, Formal DR, Kitchen W/Granite Counter Tops, Full Fin Basement W/Half Bath, Deck & Terrace, Near All…$525K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com INWOOD: NEW LISTING 3BR, 2BA Cape In Country Club Section Of Inwood, Open Floor Plan, EIK, Finished Basement W/Fireplace, Semi IG-Pool, & Bar Area, Low Taxes, Near All…$587,999 Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com WOODMERE: NEW LISTING 6BR Colonial In SD#14, Deep Property, Formal DR, HW Floors, CAC, Room To Expand, Close To All…$499K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
WOODMERE... PRICE REDUCED TO SELL!!!!! SPACIOUS CUSTOM CH Colonial 4 large Bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths ... 80 x 100 pristine prop.on quiet child friendly street. Oversized: LR., DR., Den /fpl, massive EIK with granite countertops, tiled floor, cabinets galore. Full unfinished high ceiling basement. Gas heat, CAC, 2 car garage. $925,000.... Call: Barbara Berkowitz (516-295-1621)
HOUSES FOR SALE Can’t afford your property taxes? Mortgage? Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available!
COMMERCIAL RE 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 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
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
89
Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 COMMERCIAL RE
COMMERCIAL RE
COMMERCIAL RE
ROCKVILLE CENTRE 4,600 -S/F Warehouse Includes Offices with Large Windows Loading Dock / Ideal Location - Walk to LIRR 917-822-0499
HEMPSTEAD: 1,600SF & 3,000SF Professional Office Spaces in Beautiful Elevator Building W/Excellent Parking, Great Location, For Lease…Call For More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
WOODMERE: LAST FEW SUITES!!! High Tech Executive Suites W/Parking & Storage, Various Sizes Available, All New!!! 24 Hour Access, All Utilities Included Plus Many Amenities, For Lease…Call for More Details (516) 2953000 www.pugatch.com
LYNBROOK: 1,850SF Retail Store on Sunrise Hwy, Corner Location, High Visibility, For Lease …Call For More Details Broker (516) 792-6698
CO-OP FOR SALE
WAREHOUSE Up to 10,000 S/F Rockville Centre Loading Dock - Walk to LIRR 917-822-0499 CEDARHURST: Professional/Medical Space with On-Site Parking, Three 1,500SF Suites for Lease in the Heart of Town, Near Public Transportation & Major Highways... Call for More Details Broker (516) 792-6698 HEWLETT: 2,512 +/- Turn-Key Medical/Office, All Rooms have Sinks, Lovely Atrium-like Setting, 8 Car On-Site Parking, Handicap Access, For Lease… Call Randy for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
WOODMERE: 2,400+/-SF Retail Space with Basement Available, Former Beauty Salon, Great Location, Close to Public Transportation, For Lease…Call Arthur for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IN ROCKVILLE CENTRE: Prime Sunrise Hwy Location, 13000SF Lot with 10000SF Free Standing Bldg & 2 Partial Basements, Vacant Adjoining Lot Included, Retail/Office Use, For Sale …Call Lenny for More Details (516) 2953000 www.pugatch.com
FAR ROCKAWAY 833 Central , 1st floor, balcony, doorman. Completely renovated, near LIRR, 2BR/2 full bath, 2 DW/sinks, wood cabinets, granite counters $339 917-572-9644 WOODMERE: BEST BUY – NEW PRICE SMALL PETS OK: Beautiful Corner Unit In Elevator Bldg, 2BR, 5 Closets, All Large Rooms, Sunny & Spacious, Close To All...$165K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
APT FOR RENT CEDARHURST: Fabulous & Very Spacious 2BR, 2Fbth, Storage Units, Close To All...$2,650/mo Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
APT FOR RENT FOR RENT Large 2 bedroom apartment, 2nd floor of private house on nice street in Lawrence, near Shaaray and LIRR. A lot of closet space, eat-in kitchen, living room/dining room, washer/dryer. Available immediately. $2,150 a month, includes heat. Call (516) 318-9153 FAR ROCKAWAY 2 bedroom apt available furnished newly renovated basement with high ceilings, airy and light. Brand new Kitchen and appliances . All rooms have split air conditioners, full bathroom and WiFi. please call Ricki 347-248-9160 $1400 + utilities
90
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
4BR, 3BA Split Level, Spacious 2BR, 2BA, Eik, 3BR, 2BA Cape, Fin Bsmt, 3BR Cape, Fin Bsmt, SD#14,Garage..$4,200/mo Storage,Near All..$2,650/mo Low Taxes..$587,999 SD#14,Near All..$525K
5BR,4BA Colonial,SD#15,Eik Waterfront 6BR, 6.5BA Beautiful Updated 5BR Hi-Ranch, Eik, Den, W/2 Sinks, Near All..$899K Col,Dock,Pool..$1.995M New Appliances, SD#15, Near All... $660K
Carol Braunstein
Susan Pugatch
Call or Text
(516) 592-2206
cbraunstein@pugatch.com
(516)
www.pugatch.com
295-3000
spugatch@pugatch.com
MASSAPEQUA: 2 0 E Wa l n u t S t ( 1 2 - 2 ) $359K
2,500+SF Medical Office Bldg Turn-Key Atrium like Setting Handicap Accessible
1,850 +/- SF Retail Store Great Location on Sunrise Hwy High Visibility Corner Location
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
91
Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 APT FOR RENT HIGH CEILING BSMNT. New Haven Ave, Far Rockaway, 2 bedroom semi-furnished, parking spot $1100 utilities incl. Call/text 347-243-1576 FAR ROCKAWAY 3-BEDROOM APARTMENT ASAP. Perfect location near White Shul. 2 full bathrooms. 2,550 plus gas electric. Amazing. Call (917) 716-7879 WOODMERE: HOUSE RENTAL 4BR, 3BA Split Level On Quiet Residential Street In SD#14, Eik, Formal DR, Garage…$4,200/mo Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
HELP WANTED SEEKING NURSERY ASSISTANT Warm, Loving, Motivated and Organized Excellent opportunity for growth! Please send resume with references to morahseek@gmail.com or call/text 347-766-2618 Local Yeshiva is seeking half and full day substitute teachers for grades 1-8. Please email cover letter, resume and time availability to: hweiselberg@halb.org
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys, Woodmere, NY seeks FT/PT EARTH SCIENCE TEACHER for September 2017. Email resumes to hbroder@drshalb.org
Looking for a shadow to accompany a special needs child from Far Rockaway to Flatbush , Mon- Thurs leaving around 8am and from Flatbush to Far Rockaway leaving around 4 pm and Friday 12 pm Please call 718-252-3365 x 105
SEEKING PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS AND ASSISTANT TEACHERS for the coming school year Bais Yaakov in Far Rockaway. Please email resume to teachingpositions1@gmail.com YESHIVA KETANA OF LONG ISLAND is looking for a dynamic, positive and professional afternoon assistant for a general studies first or second grade position. Please fax resume to 516-368-9199 or email to office@ykli.org Pugatch Realty Corp., in Woodmere, is looking to hire and train a select group of motivated Realtors. If you are looking to build a career in real estate, or looking to take your existing career to the next level, there is no better place to start that the #1 Real Estate Brokerage in the Five Towns… Call Today (516) 295-3000 x 128. All calls kept confidential.
HELP WANTED
FINANCIAL COORDINATOR Nursing Home in Nassau County is seeking a Qualified Financial Coordinator with Nursing Home experience. Individual should be able to Multitask & have excellent organizational skills, be efficient in excel and word. Responsibilities include but not limited to; Handling of patient accounts, bank deposits on a daily basis, Medicaid applications & other financial duties. Excellent salary & benfits pkg as well as a grt working environment. Please send resumes to gdiamond@southshorerehab.net
Bais Yaakov in Far Rockaway seeking SECRETARY/OFFICE MANAGER Yeshiva High School Office Mange all aspects of the School/ Business Office, Responsibilities include: Registration, Tuition, Annual Dinner, Banking, Academic Records, Mailings. Strong Organization Skills and Ability to Multi Task. Must be responsible, extremely organized, self-motivated Yeshiva Experience a plus Email Resume: officepositionhire@gmail.com 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
Seeking a dedicated responsible male to work with a charming 11 year old boy w/Down syndrome, Tuesday evening and weekends. Far Rockaway. 718-252-3365 ext 102
Rabbi Dovid Fleischmann Certified Mohel
WWW.BABYSMOHEL.COM
Baby-Friendly Care
Personalized Attention
Expert Skill and Dedicated Service you Deserve
516-314-3236 babysmohel@gmail.com
92
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Classifieds HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
FIVE TOWNS OFFICE LOOKING FOR immediate hire of several people…part time and full time…starting at $15 per hour. Need detail- oriented person to handle A/P, A/R, customer service, and ability to negotiate bids and contracts. Computer literate a must. Please email fabadi@egwaste.com
WARM, LOVING, HEIMISHE PLAYGROUP IN FAR ROCKAWAY ages 2 ½ to 4 – is looking for assistants and substitutes. Please call 516-371-6848
CATAPULT LEARNING Teachers, Title I Boro Park, Williamsburg and Flatbush Schools *College/Yeshiva Degree *Teaching experience required *Strong desire to help children learn *Small group instruction *Excellent organization skills Competitive salary Send resume to: Fax: (212) 480-3691 ~ Email: nyteachers@catapultlearning.com UPK teacher wanted-BA in Early Childhood required; Warm supportive environment Competitive salary Email resume to scohen@onourwaylc.org
Life CAPTURE
I M A G E S LTD PHOTOGRAPHY I VIDEO
GABRIEL SOLOMON
GABE@LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM 516.499.9620 WWW.LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM
Boys kiruv school located in Kew Gardens seeks general studies teachers for upper elementary grades. Must be proficient in Common Core curriculum and comfortable with technology in the classroom in addition to receiving training in an award winning system. Competitive salary. Hours are Monday-Thursday 12:30-3:45 Please send resumes to jobseekfr@yahoo.com OVERNIGHT \WEEKEND COUNSELOR Responsible and exp’d staff to live in a beautiful group home & work 3 nights\week 7pm - 9am. Staff are not req’d to remain awake after 11pm. Staff are req’d to work two weekends per month. Free rent & food. Stipend given as well. Great for college girl. For additional info contact Frayde Yudkowsky at 732.948.4636 or fyudkowsky@evolvetreatment.com
MISC ARE YOU FREE IN THE MORNINGS? Come join any of our free shiurim in Nach, Mishnayos, Bavli ,Yerushalmi and Mishna Berurah. Right here in Cedarhurst! STARTING SOON! 718-608-4031 geilangrant1@gmal.com SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURES TICKETS + SAFARI VALID ANY OPERATING DAY $40 PARKING PASSES $20 HERSHEY PARK TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR $48 CALL OR TEXT SHUA @917-923-0011
SHIDDUCH DATING? NEED PLACES TO GO? Check out Pegishaplace.com WIG GEMACH Everyone in our community deserves to look great! Donate used wigs and make a world of a difference. For appointments to see wigs or to donate, call Deena 845-304-6668
Small Ads at Work
Classifieds
Reach Your Target Market Classifieds
2
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017 OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Your
93
Money
Oops! By Allan Rolnick
M
ark Twain once said, “Never put off till tomorrow what may be done the day after tomorrow just as well.” But Twain’s advice doesn’t always pay when it comes to taxes. The calendar watchers at the IRS charge a 5% per month failure to file penalty, up to 25% of the amount due, along with a ½% per month failure to pay penalty, also up to 25% of the total amount due. And the IRS isn’t the only tax man to pay attention to deadlines, even if they don’t loom as large in our minds as April 15. Presidio Terrace is a private block-long oval of a street in San Francisco’s pricey Presidio Heights neighborhood, lined with 35 multimillion-dollar mansions. Residents have included Senator Dianne Feinstein, Representative Nancy Pelosi, and former San Francisco Mayor Joseph Alioto. There’s a stone gate entrance to the street, a rent-a-cop stationed at the gate to keep out snoopy McSnoopfaces, and a manicured island inside the oval for residents to enjoy. The street and sidewalks are owned by a homeowners association made up of surrounding residents.
Because it’s private, the association pays tax on the property – in this case, a whopping $14 per year. Now, $14 may not sound like it can power a lot of local government. But the city still wants their money. So, ev-
went ahead and put the street up for auction! Enter Michael Cheng and his wife Tina Lam, real estate investors from nearby South Bay. Cheng spotted the listing for the auction and smelled
Most of the street’s residents could have covered it with spare change from their couch cushions. ery year, the Treasurer-Tax Collector dutifully mails the bill to the association’s accountant on nearby Kearny Street. There’s just one teensie-weensie, tiny little problem. That accountant hasn’t worked for the HOA since the 1980s. (Oops.) That means the bill hasn’t been paid since MTV still played music videos and we wore our hair with poufy bangs. Suddenly, $14 per year snowballed into $994 in taxes, penalties, and interest. Most of the street’s residents could have covered it with spare change from their couch cushions. But the city
money. He wasn’t the only bidder looking to pick up this particular opportunity but he outlasted the rest and, for $90,100 – sight unseen – the street was theirs! So how can a couple of scrappy young real estate investors monetize their ownership of a block-long street surrounded by card-carrying 1%-ers? Start with parking. The street has 120 spots, which make it a potential gold mine in a city where a single parking space recently sold for $80,000. (And if the folks on the street don’t want to pay to park in front of their own houses, maybe the
Chengs could rent spots to the peasants living outside the gates?) Needless to say, the people who actually live on Presidio Terrace aren’t nearly as excited about paying to park on their own street as the investors who just bought it. The residents have hired an attorney, of course. (Funny how many of these weekly stories involve hiring an attorney.) They’ve petitioned the city to void the sale and scheduled a hearing for October. And they’ve sued the city to stop the Chengs from flipping the street to anyone else until after they’re done with that fight. Twenty years ago, an author named Richard Carlson made a fortune selling a book called Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff: and It’s All Small Stuff. Unfortunately, sometimes you really do have to sweat the small stuff. Fortunately, you’ve got us. So let us sweat it for you, and save you a buck or two in the process! 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.
94
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
13
Life C ach
Did You Ever Ask Yourself? By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
I
won’t go rappelling, zip-lining, or on a Ferris wheel. They go up, way too high for me. You know what? I’m not too crazy about being in the ocean anymore
either. I’m kind of suspicious of everything that swims past my legs. On the other hand, as a kid I was petrified of the dark. I thought I’d never walk out alone in it. Yet, now I’m okay with it.
I also never minded roller coasters. I even went on a crazy rafting trip in my twenties. Yet, now a few little rapids are fun enough for me. Where do our fears come from and what changes for us that makes some go away and others arise? You know the old saying, if you fall off a horse get right back on, so that you don’t develop a fear of horseback riding? Why?! I mean, do we actually need to go horseback riding? Like, other than Central Park, is there a major concern you’ll need to be on horse anytime soon? Even in Central Park these days you’re more likely to be pulled by a guy on a bike than a horse. Sure, there are still a few horses left there but often, the way they look, you feel more like carrying them than getting on them! How about looking at the saying, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” This saying was said by President Franklyn D. Roosevelt at his inauguration. It sounds cool but how many people even get what it means? Don’t fear anything but fear. And where in the world do we find fear to fear it? And if he was advising not to fear why not just say don’t bother having any fear?! So where do we get fears from? How do we lose them? And why do new ones pop up? And, most importantly, how do we get rid of them?! All good questions! Maybe it would be helpful to figure out what fear is. Is it animal, vegetable, or mineral? Well, you can fear an animal but you can like them too. You can hate your vegetables but you usually don’t fear them. And who even understands what a mineral is? So, let’s take a different approach. Is fear a thing? Is it an emotion?
Well, an emotion is a thing! And fear is certainly an emotion! So, it’s a thing called an emotion. And the good news is we can be in charge of this thing called an emotion. We can’t necessarily stop them from coming on. They sneak up on us. Yet, when they do, that’s when our job begins. We can decide what to do with them. Heed them, decide to put them in their place, or say we can override them with another emotion. So, when a fear sneaks up on you, like a fear of heights, for example, maybe it’s OK to heed it. No harm done. But if you had to escape over a mountain then you might need to put it in its place and say: “No, I can’t listen to this now. I will refute it with optimism, faith and a great set of mountain climbing gear!” Life may send us a lot to fear. Some people are naturally more brave, others are more fearful. But we all have the same toolkit to cope with it built into our DNA. This particular DNA strand stands for DNA: Don’t Need Alisten! So when a fear pops up, know that you have a choice. That’s how we go through life, getting rid of some, while confronting others. It’s never too late to ask yourself if you need to obliterate a fear and if you can do it. Because the answer is yes, you can. After all, we all are made up of DNA!
Rivki Rosenwald is a certified relationship counselor, and career and life coach. She can be contacted at 917-7052004 or rivki@rosenwalds.com<mailto:rivki@rosenwalds.com
The Jewish Home | AUGUST 24, 2017
YESHIVA GEDOLAH ATERES YAAKOV Rabbi Meir Braunstein, Shlita, Rosh Yeshiva, Yeshiva Gedolah Under the leadership of Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, Shlita, Rosh HaYeshiva
Lifelong Kesher With A Rebbe
3 Sedarim With Shoel Uâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;meishivim
Centrally Located
THE IN-TOWN YESHIVA
with the Eretz Yisroel flavor
Touro College classes on premises
1st Year Bais Medrash Program
Active Kollel
Affiliated With YIEP Graduate Degree Programs
Mishmar, In-Shabbosim, Siyumim
Be A Mashpia For Mesivta Bochurim
Beautiful Bais Medrash Rabbeim: Rabbi Mendy Edelstein Rabbi Avrohom Hartman Rabbi Yisroel Gold Rabbi Yecheskel Rodkin Rabbi Akiva Willig
To apply for the upcoming zman, please call
yg@ateresyaakov.com
516.374.6465 ext:4016
Lawrence, NY 11559
131 Washington Ave
95
96
AUGUST 24, 2017 | The Jewish Home