November 2, 2017
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BOBKER ON BALFOUR 100 Years Since the Balfour Declaration See page 7
Around the
Community
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Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan Visits YOSS
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A Rainy Day Doesn’t Dampen Support for RCCS
44 Jews Unite with Shabbos Project Around the World VOTE ON ELECTION DAY – NOVEMBER 7 REPUBLICAN, ROW B
www.SupervisorSantino.com
www.anthonydesposito.com
– See page 3
SEASONS LAWRENCE
330 Central Avenue, Lawrence, NY 11559
THE PRESSURE IS ON The impact of stress on our children Everything Russia Heats Up Page 75
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Sh’or Yoshuv Blood Drive Donate Blood, Save Lives
Sh’or Yoshuv 1 Cedarlawn Avenue, Lawrence NY
Thursday, November 9th, 2017 11AM-6PM Men & Women Welcome Women are asked to enter only through the Women’s Entrance
Hot Buffet Will Be Served Ages 16-75 // Bring Photo ID No appointment necessary // Any questions, please call 718-283-7694 Anyone who is in good health, between the ages of 16-75 and weighs at least 110 lbs. can donate blood. Sixteen year olds need parental consent; please ask the Dean for the consent form.
BLOOD DONATION FACTS: ● Blood donation is a safe & simple procedure which helps save lives ● 1 pint of blood can save 5 babies
● Donors receive a free mini physical which includes blood pressure screening, heart rate, temperature, & hemoglobin (iron) testing ● Food will be served
● There is a daily need for blood donors because blood is only good for 35-42 days ● Donors will receive a complimentary free gift
● Food will be served
The best care. Right here.
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dear Readers,
F
who unfortunately have been subject to terror all too often. When I spoke with my friends in Israel during this year’s spout of stabbings they told me that they are living their lives as usual: with caution, but they’re still living. In Israel, they do things differently. If it looks like a terrorist, it walks like a terrorist, and it talks like a terrorist, Israelis have no problem stating the obvious: it’s a terrorist. I recently read that the United States brought in airport security officials from Israel to help them with airport security. But the Israelis threw up their hands: the Americans weren’t going to “stereotype” when it came to airport security. If you can’t do that, the Israelis said, then you’re on your own. Sometimes I think that by protecting “everyone’s” rights, liberals end up relinquishing their own. If we are scared to look at statistics and note where terrorists are really coming from, then we will, G-d forbid, be subject to their horrors. See that old lady with her cat lining up at the airport? She probably does not have a bomb in her shoe. That guy over there sweating in three sweatshirts and anxiously tapping his foot in front of security? Perhaps he warrants another look. We have to tackle the problem of terror head-on. And the only way to really do that is by seeing who they really are.
or the past few years we’ve been lucky. While other places around the world have been hit by terror, New York, since 2001, has been relatively calm. I say “relatively” because we’re still affected when terror strikes in Baghdad or in Nice or in Tel Aviv. But when a truck rams into a crowd during a wedding celebration across the world, in our minds we think, “Oh, that’s too bad,” and we continue on with our day. This week, though, our peaceful existence was shattered. On Tuesday, as tourists rented bikes and pedaled down a beautiful pathway in the busiest city in the world, an evil, sadistic, perverted terrorist mowed them down with his truck. This was not a road rage incident, as was reported immediately after the attack. This was terror at its finest. And what does terror look like? It looks like mangled bicycles, twisted wheels, and broken handlebars. It looks like screaming children, crying mothers, and shouting officers. It looks like broken legs, broken families, and broken hearts. And it looks like a broken city, once peaceful, that now once again has to pick up the pieces. A friend of mine had to go into the City on Wednesday. I asked her if she was frightened to go to Manhattan, a few blocks from the scene of the attack. “No,” she responded assuredly. She’s a New Yorker. She won’t back down in the face of terror. I think we’ve seen that lesson being practiced by our brothers and sisters in Israel,
Wishing you a wonderful week, Shoshana
Yitzy Halpern PUBLISHER
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
8
COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll Community Happenings
8 40
NEWS
ISRAEL
12
Global
12
National
25
Odd-but-True Stories
38
Israel News
18
It Washes Right Off by Rafi Sackville
82
Bobker on Balfour: 100 Years since the Balfour Declaration
84
Reflections on the Balfour Declaration by Larry Domnitch
88
PEOPLE Jewish Doctors in the Civil War by Avi Heiligman
116
PARSHA Rabbi Wein
74
The Wondrous Strength of Avraham Avinu by Rav Moshe Weinberger
76
JEWISH THOUGHT Monkey See, Monkey Do by Eytan Kobre
78
Don’t Get Involved by Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
80
HEALTH & FITNESS Listening by Dr. Deb Hirschhorn
96
IBS Diet Guide by Aliza Beer, MS RD
98
The Pressure is On by Rachel Rosenholtz,
96
LCSW 100 My Child Has a Fever by Dr. Hylton I Lightman 102
FOOD & LEISURE
The Aussie Gourmet: Modern Israeli Salad
104
LIFESTYLES Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW
92
Your Money
124
The Fantasy of Football by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
125
Dear Editor, Two of your writers this week wrote about different topics, but I think that both topics are intertwined. Rav Moshe Weinberger spoke about the power each person has in his or her fight against the yetzer hara. He wrote that, like Avraham Avinu, we need to be fighters against the whole world, as the yetzer hara can be found in the palm of one’s hand nowadays. Mr. Kobre wrote about a person’s potential and how there are some individuals who will never live up to their potential. If we own up to our power, we can accomplish worlds. Both their messages are interconnected. We need to realize that we are limitless; that we have the power to move worlds and that with a bit of effort and understanding we can become different people. With that knowledge we can fight off any spiritual adversaries and stand up against the world. May we have the strength and awareness to be able to overcome and become stronger, successful individuals. Sharona Kahn Dear Editor, This letter is in response to Avrumi Stern’s letter from this week’s issue: I agree with Mr. Stern that a young couple and their parents/in-laws need clear guidelines before the wedding to talk finances if the parents/in-laws will be helping to support the young couple. I also think that, although it’s uncomfortable, a frank discussion about money and the smart way to spend and budget is so important before a young couple starts out. Many of these young couples never had their own bank accounts, they never wrote a check or paid a credit card bill. Suddenly, they are thrust into having to buy groceries, pay rent, buy a car, pay for college, buy their own clothes, pay for insurance...whoa! Perhaps a course on budgeting/man-
aging a household will be helpful. Or perhaps a few books on the subject can be useful as well. Whether a couple is being supported or not, information on finances will be really helpful as a couple begins their married life. Chani R. Dear Editor, I would like to remind your readers that Election Day this year is on Tuesday, November 7. Although it’s not a presidential election, it is important for us to vote. When we vote we send a message to our politicians that we are people they have to answer to. We are reminding them that they work for us and that we’re vocal, educated, concerned citizens. Regardless of who you’re voting for, make sure you head to the polls on Tuesday. A Reader Dear Editor, The draft in Israel has been in the news for the past few weeks – even on news sites like Drudge and on news radio programs. It’s interesting to hear people pontificate: “Oh, yes, everyone should be drafted; everyone should serve.” This is a very delicate issue, as we know. Sadly, Israel needs an army to survive. We need people to serve at a moment’s notice. And it’s very easy for radio show hosts in the United States to talk about teenagers living thousands of miles away serving in the army. They don’t know the stress that it has on a family when their child is serving in the military. They don’t know what these teens go through on the frontlines. And yes, guarding Damascus Gate is the frontlines nowadays, when Arabs pillage the streets with knives and machetes. So let’s leave the pontificating for people who are more involved in the issues, who know their country better than us. Reuven Klepman
HUMOR Centerfold
72
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes
106
Might Xi Jinping’s Star be Burning too Bright? by David Ignatius
113
Everything Russia Heats Up by Susan Schwamm
114
CLASSIFIEDS
120
Do you play a musical instrument?
31
%
YES
69
%
NO
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Supervisor Anthony J. SAntino & Councilman Anthony D’ESpoSito
Sta nd Wit h Us!
Fighting Back Against BDS Supervisor Santino and Councilman D’Esposito led America’s largest township
L’DOR VADOR
From Generation to Generation
to oppose the anti-Semitic BDS movement and bigotry. Under a local law unanimously passed in a bipartisan Town Board vote, Hempstead Town is now barred from doing business with companies supporting the dangerous Boycott, Divestment & Sanctions campaign against Israel & its allies.
Taking Action Against Hate & Intolerance As representatives of the Five Towns and other communities, Santino and D’Esposito have sought legislation from Albany to close a New York State loophole and designate the swastika as a hate speech., akin to a noose or burning cross.
Supervisor Santino and Rabbi Benjamin Kamenetzky in 1997
Hempstead is a Sister Municipality with Israel’s Shomron Region Santino’s Hempstead Town administration entered into a “Sister Municipality” relationship with the Samaria area’s Regional Council to open a free exchange of ideas and encourage business, academic, athletic and cultural relationships.
Making Government Convenient for ALL Residents Thanks to Santino & D’Esposito’s commitment, town government makes itself available to all neighbors. Hempstead Town’s Mobile Town Hall
Councilman D’Esposito, Supervisor Santino and Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky in 2017
and Passport office visits the Five Towns on Sundays throughout the year. Additionally, they extended the hours that the Town’s animal shelter operates on Sundays in order to better serve residents.
Supervisor Santino and Israeli Consul General Dani Dayan at the Israeli Consulate at the UN in front of a tattered Israeli flag recovered from the World Trade Center. The leaders have discussed how America’s largest township is standing with our greatest Middle East ally.
Supervisor Santino and Councilman D’Esposito stand with Shomron Regional Council President Yossi Dagan, announcing the partnership between America’s largest township and the Israeli Region.
Dr. Beth Raskin of Kulanu shows Supervisor Santino and Councilman D’Esposito the new upgrades to the Central Avenue building that provides special services to all community members.
RE-ELECT Supervisor Anthony J. SAnTInO & Councilman Anthony D’ESpOSITO Vote Republican, Row B on Tuesday, November 7 Not prepared or printed at taxpayer expense
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Week In News
Week of Mourning for Thai King
The World’s Strongest Passport
According to the latest Global Passport Index, citizens of Singapore now hold the most powerful passport in the world. It is the first-ever Asian country to reach the top of the list published by Arton Capital, a Canadian global consultancy firm. The rankings are based on passports’ “visa-free score.” A point is given for each country that their holders can visit without a visa, with a visa on arrival, or using electronic travel authorization. Singapore received a score of 159, meaning holders of a Singaporean passport can now easily visit 159 countries, either visa-free or by gaining a visa on arrival. The tropical island-nation with a population of 5.6 million was neck-to-neck with Germany in recent months. However, then Paraguay removed visa requirements for Singapore, allowing Singaporean passport-holders to smoothly cross borders into 159 nations without extra documentation. “It is a testament of Singapore’s inclusive diplomatic relations and effective foreign policy,” said Philippe May, managing director of the firm’s Singapore office. Presently, Sweden and South Korea are tied for third place. The U.S. has now been bumped to the sixth spot on the index with a score of 154, a space it shares with Canada, Malaysia and Ireland. The United Kingdom got a score of 156. Recently, Turkey and the Central African Republic revoked visa-free privileges for Americans. The least mobile passport in the world is from Afghanistan, with a score of 22, followed by Pakistan and Iraq at 26.
The king of Thailand was cremated this week after ruling the country for 70 years. King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died one year ago at the age of 88, was buried in a five day funeral service that brought massive crowds and had a budget of over 90 million dollars. The ceremonies culminated in the king’s son and successor lighting a massive and elaborate pyre which filled the night sky with flames for hours. The actual cremation of Adulyadej’s body took place in a private family setting at the royal crematorium, which was built for the occasion. Adulyadej, also known as Rama IX, was once the world’s longest ruling monarch. He was a direct descendant of Rama I, the founder of the Chakri dynasty. The final day of the funeral was declared a national holiday so that the country could mourn. Banks and shops were closed across Thailand. Dignitaries from 42 countries, including U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis, Britain’s Prince Andrew, Japan’s Prince Akishino and royalty from Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Sweden, all attended the services. The king was seen as a force of community and tradition in a country that was subjected to extreme volatility and over a dozen coups during his reign. He ruled over 20 prime ministers and made many changes in the country’s constitution. He was also seen as the stable force that helped the country maneuver its way through the Vietnam War. King Bhumibol Adulyadej is succeeded by his only son, Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun (and no, that is not a typo).
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Bahrain Sentences 19 for Spying for Iran On Monday, a Bahraini court sentenced 19 Shiites to lengthy jail terms on charges of spying for Iran and plotting to overthrow the regime, judicial sources said. Eight people were sentenced to life in prison, nine to 15 years in prison, and two to 10 years in jail for espionage and inciting public dissent. Fifteen of those convicted were also stripped of Bahraini citizenship. The court found the group guilty of leaking information to Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards and Lebanon’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah and of receiving “material support” from the two forces. They were also convicted of forming a cell to “incite the public against the government and call for regime change by force.” The prosecutor’s office said the 19 belonged to the Al-Wafaa Islamic movement, a little-known group which Bahraini authorities say is linked to the Revolutionary Guards and Hezbollah.
T H E
H E B R E W
Speaking on condition of anonymity, a judicial source confirmed all 19 were Shiite Muslims. Dozens of Bahrainis have been jailed and stripped of citizenship since the 2011 outbreak of protests demanding an elected government in the Sunni-ruled kingdom. A key U.S. ally and home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet, Bahrain has tightened its grip on dissent since 2011, drawing harsh criticism from international rights groups for its treatment of the Shiite-majority population. In April, parliament gave approval for military courts to try civilians charged with “terrorism,” a vaguely defined legal term in the kingdom. Bahrain accuses Shiite Iran of training “terrorist cells” that aim to overthrow its government, an allegation Tehran denies.
Plot to Kill Jong Un’s Nephew Foiled A plot to kill Kim Jong Un’s nephew was foiled after several North Ko-
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rean agents were arrested by Chinese officials. The nephew, Kim Han Sol, is the son of Kim’s half-brother who was poisoned this year in a Malaysian airport.
Two of the seven North Korean agents who were involved in the alleged plot were arrested in Beijing. The plot was uncovered because Chinese officials increased security during the country’s 19 National Congress of the Communist Party. “Special operatives belonging to the North’s reconnaissance squad have penetrated to remove Kim Han Sol, but some of them were arrested last week by the Chinese Ministry of National Security and are currently under investigation at special facilities outside Beijing,” a source told the newspaper, JongAng Ilbo.
Kim Han Sol, who is reportedly in his 20s, surfaced in March after he released a video confirming the death of his father, Kim Jong Nam, who was killed in February when two women smeared the banned VX nerve agent on his face at Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur airport. Speaking in English, Kim Jong Un’s nephew showed his passport as proof of his identity and said, “My father has been killed a few days ago.” He continued, “I’m currently with my mother and sister. We hope…” before the video’s audio abruptly cuts off. He ends with, “We hope this gets better soon.” Two women are on trial in Kim Jong Nam’s death. They have denied being part of an assassination plot and said they were duped into thinking they were playing a harmless prank for a reality television show. The involvement of missing North Korean agents have fueled a South Korea spy agency’s claim that the attack was part of a careful plot set up by Kim Jong Un to kill his brother. Kim Jong Nam and his family were living in exile since the early 2000s when Kim Jong Nam fell out of favor with his father, Kim Jong Il. Kim Han Sol, like many Kim family members, attended school outside of
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
THIS SUNDAY!
16
The Five Towns Far Rockaway Friends of the
reception
RABBINICAL SEMINARY OF AMERICA YESHIVA CHOFETZ CHAIM OF QUEENS cordially invite you to attend a
ON BEHALF O F THE YESHIVA
Harav Dovid Harris שליט'א Rosh HaYeshiva Will Address the Gathering
•
Sunday Morning November 5, 2017 ט"ז חשון תשע"ח
North Korea, including United World College in Mostar, Bosnia. He then moved to France to attend Paris Institute of Political Studies. He is fluent in English. Kim Han Sol previously spoke out about his “dictator” uncle during a 2012 interview on a Finnish TV show. “I’ve always dreamed that one day I would go back and make things better, and make things easier for the people back there. I also dream of unification,” Kim said about North Korea. “I don’t really know how he became a dictator because first of all it was between him and my grandfather,” he said. Kim Jong Un had his uncle, Jang Song Thaek, executed in 2013 and accused him of being a “traitor” and committing a series of “hideous crimes.” Reports claimed Kim Jong Un discovered a coup devised by his uncle and Chinese government to overthrow him and his regime.
Assad Was Behind Sarin Attack
9:30 AM
the attack was carried out, President Trump ordered the U.S. military to launch 59 Tomahawk cruise missiles at a Syrian airbase. Syria continues to deny its possession of chemical weapons. Damascus explained the chemical exposure by saying that an airstrike hit a chemical weapons depot in the rebel-held town. Russia is a very powerful ally to Syria and continues to support the Assad regime in international venues. Moscow recently vetoed the continuation of multiple United Nations investigations into Syria’s reported war crimes. UK Ambassador to the UN Matthew Rycroft recently told reporters that “it is long past time for Moscow to abandon Assad. It is long past time for justice.”
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A joint report from the United Nations has confirmed that the sarin attack that targeted the town of Khan Sheikhoun earlier this year was the work of the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. The chemical weapon was responsible for the death of 80 people. “The panel is confident that the Syrian Arab Republic is responsible for the release of sarin at Khan Sheikhun on 4 April 2017,” the report says. “Time and again, we see independent confirmation of chemical weapons use by the Assad regime. And in spite of these independent reports, we still see some countries trying to protect the regime. That must end now,” said Nikki Haley, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. After
A huge collection of pre-War documents and manuscripts that were previously thought to have been destroyed in the Holocaust have been discovered in Lithuania. The YIVO Institute for Jewish research has announced that over 170,000 pages were found in the Martynas Mazvydas National Library of Lithuania earlier this year. The collection contains a postcard from painter Marc Chagall and letters from writer Shalom Aleichem. “When a find like this comes along, it’s monumental,” said David Fishman, professor of Jewish history at the Jewish Theological Seminary and author of the book, The Book Smugglers. “It’s the most important find since the Dead Sea Scrolls.” Ac-
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
cording to Fishman, the documents will offer valuable insight into the lives of Eastern European Jews prior to World War II. Lithuanian Jewry was almost completely destroyed in the Holocaust. “Not only were the Jews annihilated, but also the record of their history was destroyed,” Fishman noted. The documents were preserved by a group of brave Jews in the Vilnius ghetto who risked their lives to preserve them. Nazi orders were to have 70 percent of the documents destroyed and the remaining 30 percent to be sent to Berlin for analysis. The group of Jews, known as the Paper Brigade, separated the documents into six parts and hid them in various locations in the ghetto. The trove of documents came into a Lithuanian librarian’s possession after the war, and he stored them in the basement of St. George Church in the Lithuanian capital. In 2016, the documents were moved to the Martynas Mazvydas National Library, and in May of this year, authorities realized their value and contacted the YIVO Institute for Jewish Research to spearhead the investigation and restoration of the documents. The documents are set to be digitized and analyzed over the next few years.
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Crime Soars in Mexico
16
Our
Year
Mexico is facing one of the worst years of crime in its history. In May, Mexico reached the highest monthly homicide rate in the last 20 years, with 2,186 murders on record. Previously, the highest was recorded at 2,131 murders in May 2011. This deadly pattern has been developing for the last two decades. Last year there were more than 20,000 killings. This year is on track to be worse, exceeding the 2011 record, which was believed at the time to be the drug war’s peak. “Drug trafficking is not this violent in other countries,” Guillermo
Valdés, a former leader of CISEN, the civil national security intelligence service, said. “It makes me desperate because this violence, it’s increasing.” The crime is largely blamed on drug lords, corrupt police, and an ineffective legal system. The crackdown on drug cartels and organized crime has been Mexico’s main concern for the last ten years. Then-president Felipe Calderón declared war on the cartels upon taking office in December 2006 and sent soldiers into the streets to stamp out illegal drug activities. This only cost more
718-969-9100 info@majesticpassover.com www.majesticpassover.com lives – an estimated 200,000. At the end of the battle, 30,000 Mexicans were missing and there was no improvement in safety, policing, or law enforcement. Then Peña Nieto came along in 2012, with a new approach. Less violence and more verbal negotiations, he promised structural reforms and improvement of economic issues. But his system seems to have failed. “The increase in violence is a clear sign that the strategy Enrique Peña Nieto sold us has failed,” said Viridiana Ríos, analyst at the Wilson
Centre, a Washington think tank. “He told us it’s a problem of perception and there was too much discussion in Mexico about violence. A year before there are elections, we are [now] seeing the highest levels of violence.” Peña Nieto’s strategy lessened local officials’ power and has led to those in the judiciary shying away from taking on the war against drugs and corruption. “I cannot think of a single prosecutor or judge who stands out” on fighting corruption, said Paul F. Lagunes, a Columbia University profes-
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Entire Staff of
Silver Creek Foods Jerry Blum Abe Orzel Chaya Bracha Goldfein Ariel Korn Simcha Cohen Would Like to Welcome our Newest Member
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To Our Ever-Expanding Staff
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sor who studies corruption. “There are people staking their careers on this, but not in the judiciary — in the press.” The combination of corruption, weak accountability and weak institutions has left the state vulnerable. In poor and rural areas, security has effectively receded. Criminal groups and youth gangs are filling the void, co-opting local officials or simply muscling them out. There are constant home invasions, gang killings and stickups that lead to fatalities. Now people are being led to take on security on their own. Businesses and middle-class Mexicans are hiring private security in record numbers. But like the Army, hired guards cannot solve crimes or lock up suspects. Rural communities, which are more vulnerable, have formed “self-defense” militias to run off gangs and mayors alike. But militias are even more corruptible and less accountable than the police they replace. Nearly all target their onetime sponsors for extortion, robbery and kidnapping. Many are involved in the heroin trade, which is booming as opioid addiction drives up American demand. In a disturbing trend, desperate and frightened communities increasingly seek at least the illusion of security by lynching suspected criminals.
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According to reports out of North Korea, about 200 people are feared dead after underground tunnels at a nuclear test site that was predicted to be unstable reportedly collapsed, crushing 100 people in the initial cave-in and 100 others when the tunnels again gave way on top of rescuers. The collapse at the Punggye-ri test site on October 10 occurred while people were doing construction on the underground tunnel. North Korea’s sixth nuclear test on September 3 most likely caused the tunnel to crumble and created serious damage in the region. North Korea had said it detonated a hydrogen bomb, calling
it a “perfect success.” It was the country’s most powerful bomb tested to date and the blast was reportedly 10 times more powerful than the nuclear bomb that was dropped over Hiroshima at the end of World War II. The test triggered a 6.3-magnitude earthquake that day and multiple tremors have been detected from the area since then. Satellite images showed several landslides that occurred after the September 3 test. A possible “collapse chimney crater” was also seen on Mount Mantap, possibly caused by the underground tests. It’s unclear if the mountain will collapse in the near future, but the report said there was “significant cracking” and “irreversible strain” on the land because of the nuclear test. If the mountain collapses radiation can be released into nearby China. Radioactive xenon-133 was detected in South Korea after the test.
Hamas Security Head Survives Assassination Attempt The head of Hamas security forces survived a “failed assassination attempt,” according to the Hamas interior ministry. Tawfiq Abu Naim’s car exploded while he was inside it in a refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. The attack comes during a tense time for Hamas, who is in the process of handing over power to the Palestinian Authority. A ministry statement said that the “director general of the internal security forces was moderately wounded and was treated in hospital.” The statement went on to say that “the security services immediately began investigations to discover the circumstances of the incident and to catch the perpetrators.” Hamas is in talks to turn over their power in the Gaza Strip to Fatah, under the rule of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. The current deal has power being turned over to Fatah by December 1, though similar previous agreements have fallen through. Both Fatah and
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Hamas have condemned the car bombing, blaming it on “enemies” trying to sabotage the reconciliation. Neither party blames a specific person or group, which is unusual as they mostly blame Israel in these situations. Many inside Hamas are blaming ISIS for the attempted assassination. Hamas has had to fend off multiple attacks from ISIS gunmen, who have been active both in the Gaza Strip and in Egypt near the Gaza border.
UAE Snubs, Apologizes & then Snubs Israel Again Top judo officials from the United Arab Emirates have apologized to Israeli competitors who were repeatedly snubbed at a tournament in Abu Dhabi. Mohammad Bin Thaloub Al-Darei, president of the UAE’s Judo Federation, and Aref Al-Awani, another senior Emirates sports official, apologized for an athlete that refused to shake hands with an Israeli competitor after the match was over.
Darei and Awani “apologized because of the UAE athletes not shaking hands with the Israeli athletes and also congratulated the Israeli team for their success here,” IJF president Marius Vizer said. He called the move a “gesture of courage.” The incident that led to the apology occurred when the UAE’s Rashad Almashjari refused to shake hands with Israel’s Tohar Butbul after losing to him in the first round. Butbul went on to win the bronze medal in the tournament, one of many Israel would come home with. The Israeli team was forced to appear without their flag and the national anthem was not played for Israel’s gold medalist Tal Flicker. Flicker sang out his own private “Hatikvah” under
the International Judo Federation (IJF) flag, as the federation’s anthem played in the background. “As you can see I don’t have the flag,” Or Sasson said after winning the bronze medal in the over 100 kilogram category. “But my heart is always, always, with the state of Israel. I hope I made you proud and I will always continue to represent you with pride,” he said. The entire team was required to compete without any Israeli identifying symbols. Israel was snubbed once again by the UAE later in the week when diplomats gave gifts to all of the delegations at the UN cultural agency except Israel. The UAE sponsored the renovation of UNESCO’s conference hall in Paris and, to mark the occasion, placed a box with a silver medal on the desk of each foreign delegation except that of the Jewish State. Israel’s ambassador to UNESCO, Carmel Shama-Hacohen, responded to the snub by saying that “the State of Israel has no need for gifts, but this ugly and uncivilized step, here in the world’s organization for culture and education, which follows the outrageous treatment of our judokas during the tournament in the UAE’s capital, shows how much hatred, incitement and dark mentality sur-
round these people,” Shama-Hacohen said. He also said incoming UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay will “hear from me at the first opportunity.”
Bibi Postpones “Greater Jerusalem” Vote
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed a vote on a bill which would essentially extend Jerusalem’s city limits and would see the city absorb major settlements currently in the West Bank. The bill was set to be voted on by the Ministerial Committee for Legislation earlier this week, which would have
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fast-tracked its progress through the Knesset. An anonymous government source said that the Greater Jerusalem bill needs “greater diplomatic preparation and thus will be postponed for the moment.” Bibi has supported the bill for a long time but the unnamed source told Israeli news outlets that Netanyahu is holding off until he consults with the Trump administration first. The Trump White House has been attempting to restart Israeli-Palestinian peace talks since coming to power. The bill would likely anger Palestinians and make them less likely to consider peace talks. Under the proposed law, Ma’ale Adumim, Beitar Illit and Efrat, along with the Etzion bloc of settlements, would all be absorbed into the Jerusalem municipality. Some neighborhoods in question are as much as 10 kilometers from Jerusalem. In total, more than 130,000 Israelis would become Jerusalem residents. The residents of the settlements would be able to vote in Jerusalem municipal elections, though the settlements themselves would not be under full Israel authority. The move would bring the Jewish demographic of Jerusalem significantly higher and would tip the population scales significantly in Israel’s favor. The proposal also removed some 100,000 people living in Palestinian neighborhoods from the city’s population. A new municipality will be created for them. The bill has received harsh criticism from many Palestinian parties. Israel views the entire Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, while the Palestinians view Eastern Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.
IDF Takes Out Terror Tunnel
The IDF blew up an attack tunnel this week that led from the Gaza Strip into Israel. The destruction of the tunnel led to the death of at least seven men and injured another 12 Hamas members. Two commanders of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad ter-
ror group were killed in the blast. “The explosion took place inside Israeli territory. The majority of the dead were activists that entered the tunnel after it was exploded and died in the Gaza Strip, and not as a result of the explosion,” said an IDF spokesperson. The tunnel is believed to have been dug after the 2014 conflict with Hamas. It ran from the Gazan city of Khan Younis, crossed under the border for dozens of meters, and approached Kibbutz Kissufim. The area was closed by the IDF. The Iron Dome rocket defense system was deployed to the area as well. “We are not interested in an escalation but we are ready for all scenarios,” the IDF said. Hamas called the Israeli strike a “dangerous escalation against our people” and said it was “a desperate attempt to sabotage efforts to restore Palestinian unity.” “We affirm that resisting the occupation, in all its forms and through the use of various tools, is a natural and guaranteed right of our people,” the Hamas statement said. “We are brothers in jihad and comrades in martyrdom, united around the core principles of our people and its resistance,” it warned. The tunnel was reportedly dug by Islamic Jihad, the second largest terrorist group in the Gaza Strip. “The Zionist terror government must realize that we will not hesitate to protect our people and our land,” Islamic Jihad spokesman Dawood Shehab said, adding that the terror group “is considering all of its options,” including the “option of responding to this aggression.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked the IDF and attributed the tunnel’s discovery to new “breakthrough technology” that can discover underground tunnels. “I told you many times before that we are developing breakthrough technology to deal with the tunnel threat,” the prime minister said. “We are implementing it. Today, we located a tunnel and we destroyed it.” In response to the discovery and destruction of the terror tunnel inside Israel, Iran’s propaganda machine swung into action, “The bloodthirsty Zionist regime is trying to bend the will of the oppressed people of the occupied territories to guarantee its security by killing Palestinian youths,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Bahram Qassemi said, according to the Iranian Tasnim news agency. “This is while seven decades of
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crimes, bloodshed and child-killing could not weaken the determination of this patient and courageous people at all,” he added. The IDF said it is not immediately clear who had dug the tunnel but Hamas is ultimately responsible for it as they are the governing group in the Gaza Strip. It is thought that Islamic Jihad is the group that dug the actual tunnel.
WeWork Founder Discovers Shabbat
2010 in New York after completing his service in the Israeli army. Today WeWork manages 10 million square feet of office space and Newmann can’t imagine things having worked out any better. As he told the Yediot Achronot, “I had a difficult childhood, my parents divorced, my mother was a doctor and worked late hours. Adi and I were alone, and we moved apartments 13 different times. When I came to the U.S. I tried to take shortcuts to make money – but everything crashed. I was angry at people, I felt I deserved everything. Then, when I met my wife, she told me to stop complaining about the past. She made me stop smoking and told me that I was chasing the wrong things. “She made me realize that the goal was to be happy, to do something that is meaningful to you.”
Battle of Beer Sheva The Israeli entrepreneur Adam Newmann who founded WeWork, a shared office space company, and built it into a $20 billion business based on the concept of people working where they want, how they want to and when they want to has recently disclosed that in his own life there is one time when he won’t work – on Shabbat. In a recent interview with Israeli newspaper, Yediot Achronot, Newmann, who grew up irreligious said that “in the past two years, I have begun to observe Shabbat. During Shabbat I am completely cut off, there is no one to talk to, and I do not compromise about it.” The married father of five, who now lives in New York, added, “At first it felt like a tough assignment, but it gives me time with my children, my wife, my friends. Last week I had a crazy week in which I was flying and working a lot. On Friday morning we got up and said to each other, ‘We are ready for Shabbat.’ Shabbat arrives, we light candles, relax, friends come over, we eat a meal that we cooked beforehand. We are cut off from the rest of the world, but in reality connecting with each other.” He continued, “I spend more time than I ever did with my family and even phone and see my mother more. And the real magic is that the more I do it, the more successful the company is. Go figure.” Newmann founded WeWork in
It’s been 100 years since the Battle of Beer Sheva, and on Tuesday, Israeli, Australian, and New Zealand leaders gathered in southern Israel to mark the 100th anniversary of a key cavalry charge that helped clear the way to Jerusalem during World War I. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu was joined by his Australian counterpart Malcolm Turnbull and New Zealand Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy in Beer Sheva, where the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) defeated Ottoman troops to gain control of a strategic crossroads. Netanyahu hailed the battle as eventually helping lead to the creation of the State of Israel. “Nearly 4,000 years ago Abraham came to Beer Sheba, the city of seven wells,” Netanyahu said at the ceremony, held in the city’s Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. “Exactly 100 years ago brave ANZAC soldiers liberated Beer Sheva for the sons and daughters of Abraham and opened the gateway for the Jewish people to reenter the stage of history,” Netanyahu said.
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“Israel salutes the sacrifice of these brave soldiers. We will never forget them. We will forever honor and treasure their memory.” To Australians, “the battle has become part of our history, part of our psyche,” Turnbull said. “Had the Ottoman rule in Palestine and Syria not been overthrown by the Australians and the New Zealanders, the Balfour Declaration would have been empty words,” the Australian premier said. Britain’s Balfour Declaration on November 2, 1917 said it viewed “with favour [sic] the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people”. New Zealand’s Reddy said the battle “changed political conditions in this region in the most profound way”. Organizers said 3,000 tourists from Australia and New Zealand came for the ceremonies, which saw the normally tranquil Beer Sheva, dubbed the capital of the Negev desert region, astir with dignitaries, security forces and media. At least 1,200 students from Israel attended the events, which included a 100-horse march and Australian riders in period uniforms.
Terror in NYC
Tuesday was a tranquil day in New York City. The sky was clear, the fall breezes were calming. And then, around 3pm, the tranquility was shattered when a driver of a Home Depot truck smashed into a school bus and plowed onto a crowded bike path along the Hudson River. Eight people were killed in the attack and eleven people were injured. The terrorist, Sayfullo Saipov, 29, jumped out of the truck, ran up and down the highway waving a pellet gun and a paintball gun and shouted, “Allahu akhbar.” A quick-thinking police officer ran after the terrorist and shot him in
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the abdomen, saving countless more lives. Media dubbed the attack the “deadliest” in New York City since 9/11. For now, no terror group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although federal agents found handwritten notes written in Arabic near the truck that indicated the attacker had allegiance to Islamic State. The scene, which extended almost a mile long and ended just a few blocks from the World Trade Center, was strewn with mangled bicycles and hurting people. Among the victims were five Argentine tourists who traveled to New York for a 30th high school reunion. Hernán Mendoza, Diego Angelini, Alejandro Pagnucco, Ariel Erlij and Hernán Ferruchi lost their lives. Martín Ludovico Marro, a sixth member of the group, was wounded. Erlij was Jewish. Chief executive at Ivanar, an Argentine steel products manufacturing company, he had paid for the group of eight to celebrate their reunion in New York. Belgian officials said one of those killed and three of the injured were from Belgium. The terrorist came to the United States in 2010 from Uzbekistan and
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has a green card. He had lived in Paterson, New Jersey, and rented the truck used in the attack from a Home Depot in Passaic. Investigators say that Saipov had been on their radar for a while in an unrelated investigation. For the past six months the terrorist was a driver for Uber. He had passed the background check but has now been removed from the app. According to CNN terrorism analyst Paul Cruickshank, “There has been a significant problem with jihadism in Uzbekistan.” Cruickshank says that there are two large jihadi groups in the country. One of them is the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, which is affiliated with ISIS. Terrorist magazines have been calling for truck ramming attacks, including one article in the edition of Rumiyah, a magazine by ISIS, that urged followers to mow down pedestrians with a truck, use knives or a gun on other victims, and shout their allegiance or leave leaflets claiming responsibility. Just a few months ago, a car rammed into pedestrians in Times Square, killing one. That attack was not deemed terrorism. Last year in Nice, France, 86 people were killed when a cargo truck rammed into crowds on Bastille Day.
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“Hillary Clinton always denied it. The Democrats always denied it, and now, only because it is going to come out in a court case, they said yes they did it. They admitted it and they are embarrassed by it. I think it is a disgrace,” the president said. According to Perkins Coie’s head council, Fusion approached the law firm to see if its clients would be interested in paying them to continue research regarding then-presidential candidate Donald Trump, research that Fusion GPS had conducted for one or more other clients during the Republican primary contest. The DNC and Clinton campaign engaged Fusion in April to “perform a variety of research services during the 2016 election cycle.” The Trump White House was quick to highlight how the real story surrounding Russia and the elections is the existence and the funding of the dossier that was collected. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders said that the news of the Clinton campaign and the DNC funding the dossier research was “the real Russia scandal.” “The real Russia scandal? Clinton campaign paid for the fake Russia dossier, then lied about it & covered it up,” Sanders tweeted.
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on President Trump leading up to the November 2016 election. CNN reported recently that the law firm Perkins Coie represented the Clinton campaign and the DNC in hiring the intelligence firm Fusion GPS to investigate Trump. According to a source familiar with the matter, Perkins Coie entered “into an engagement for research services that began in April 2016 and concluded before the election in early November.” Perkins Coie revealed this infor-
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mation in order to avoid having to reveal its confidential list of clients. The House Intelligence Committee has subpoenaed Fusion GPS’s bank to submit records of payments that were made for their services. President Trump told reporters that the high level of involvement that the DNC and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton had with putting together the dossier on him is a “very sad commentary on politics in this country.”
Move over Bill Gates and make room for Jeff Bezos. The Amazon CEO became the richest man in the world last Friday morning after adding a cool $7 billion to his wealth overnight. Amazon share prices surged Fri-
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day morning after a very positive earnings report, increasing Bezos’ net worth to $90 billion, according to calculations by CNBC and data from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. Don’t start feeling sorry for Bill Gates; he also added to his fortune on that lucky Friday after shares of Microsoft rose after its earnings were reported. He earned a paycheck of about $550 million, putting his fortune at $88.5 billion. But Bezos shouldn’t get too comfy in the top seat – expect it to be a horserace over the next few weeks. On Friday, Amazon shares were trading up more than 10% at around $1,067, while Microsoft’s stock gained 9% to trade just under $86. By Monday Bezos’ estimated net worth jumped to $93.1 billion and Gates to $89.9. Both companies can continue to fluctuate, pushing either one up or down on the richest list. In July, Bezos enjoyed the title of world’s richest for just one short day. Bezos, 53, founder of Amazon. com, the world’s largest online shopping retailer, is married and has four children, a daughter adopted from China and three sons. Bezos was adopted at a young age. His stepfather, Miguel “Mike” Bezos, was an engineer at Exxon. Bezos launched Amazon in 1994 and was named person of the year by Time magazine in 1999.
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Manafort, Gates Indicted
The former campaign manager of President Donald Trump and another former aide of his have been charged by federal prosecutors with money laundering. Paul Manafort and Rick Gates were arraigned at a federal courthouse in Washington this week. Both men pleaded not guilty to the 12 counts that were brought against them. The charges were the result of a five-month long investigation by U.S. Justice Department Special Counsel
Robert Mueller. The charges ranged from money laundering to acting as unregistered agents of Ukraine’s former pro-Russian government during the duo’s time as political consultants and lobbyists working with Ukraine. George Papadopoulos, a third former Trump advisor, pleaded guilty to lying to the FBI on October 5. As part of a sworn statement to the court, Papadopoulos says he repeatedly met in 2016 with Russians offering “dirt” on Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton. Papadopoulos says he then relayed that and other messages from the Russians to senior members of Trump’s GOP campaign. Neither the president nor his campaign were mentioned in the indictment. The indictment includes wrongful actions years before Trump began his campaign for president. The 31-page indictment against Manafort and Gates includes details about their lavish lifestyle – that they used money from offshore accounts to pay for mortgages, children’s tuition and home decorating. The indictment says more than $75 million flowed through the offshore accounts, specifically that Manafort laundered more than $18 million and that Gates transferred more than $3 million from the offshore accounts. The judge ordered that both men be under house arrest and set a $10 million unsecured bond for Manafort and a $5 million bond for Gates. The unsecured bonds mean that they are released from jail without having to pay the money but will owe it if they fail to come to court. The White House press secretary noted that the charges do not reflect on Trump or his campaign. “We’ve been saying from Day One there’s no evidence of Trump-Russia collusion, and nothing in the indictment today changes that at all,” said Sarah Sanders. According to the indictment, Manafort and Gates generated tens of millions of dollars from Ukraine and laundered money through dozens of U.S. and foreign entities in order to hide the monies from the IRS.
Hey, Taxi! The value of a New York City taxi medallion, once worth more than $1 million, is on the decline. Yellow cab drivers are suffering tremendously as they attempt to keep up with apps like Uber and Lyft. Drivers are
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empty yellow cabs sit dormant in garages throughout the city.
Taxi drivers are independent contractors, and are not protected under the National Labor Relations Act. The NYTWA can coordinate protests and strikes, but has no collective bargaining rights. Taxi drivers who want to organize can join the New York Taxi Workers’ Alliance (NYTWA), an organization that claims 18,000 members.
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struggling to pay their bills and many claim to be drowning in debt. Many drivers in New York City are immigrants; about 82% of New York City cab drivers are foreign-born. The medallion system regulates the yellow taxis serving New York City. Implemented in 1937, every yellow cab needs a medallion in order to legally operate. The majority of the drivers you see behind the wheel, though, generally don’t own a medallion. Instead, they rent one
from a person who owns one, paying around $100 for one 12-hour shift. Due to a limited number of medallions issued by the City, the value of a medallion shot up from $50,000 in the late 1970s to more than $1 million by 2014. Today, there are more than 13,000 yellow medallion taxis in New York, split among about 40,000 drivers. According to Salary.com, the average salary of a yellow cab driver in Manhattan is $41,131. Many taxi drivers are left with
major loans to repay on their medallions but not enough business to make their monthly payments, forcing them into debt. Some drivers have transitioned into driving for Uber, Lyft and other like services, but many complain that the ride-sharing apps take huge commissions and that drivers are unable to make a significant living. Since Uber hit the streets of New York City in 2011, they have outnumbered taxis. Now, taxi fleets struggle to find enough drivers, and
The opioid epidemic was declared a public health emergency by President Trump on Thursday. He called the growing problem the “worst drug crisis in American history” and promised to devote resources to resolving the widespread plague. The status of a public health emergency allows the federal government to waive some regulations, gives states more flexibility in how they use federal funds, and expands the use of telemedicine treatment. “As Americans, we cannot allow this to continue,” Trump said during an event in the East Room of the White House, where he was accompanied by first lady Melania Trump. He continued, “It is time to liberate our communities from the scourge of drug addiction... We can be the generation that ends the opioid epidemic. We can do it.” The first lady has uncharacteristically taken a leading role in highlighting the impact of opioids on families. Every single day the deadly drug claims an estimated 100 lives. During the conference, the president mentioned his brother, Fred
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Trump, who died of complications related to alcoholism. Those in attendance included family members of those affected by the opioid crisis, along with an array of administration officials and elected leaders from across the country. New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (R), chairman of a presidential commission on battling the crisis, was also there. “We are here today because of your courage,” the first lady told the audience. “The opioid epidemic has affected more than 2 million Americans nationwide, and sadly the number continues to rise... No state has been spared, and no demographic has been untouched.” Democratic lawmakers were quick to jump on the president’s announcement, asking why he didn’t declare a national state of emergency to tackle the epidemic. The presidential memorandum orders Eric Hargan, the acting secretary of health and human services, to declare a nationwide public health emergency and to direct all federal agencies to use any emergency authorities that they have to reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths. The last time that a national public health emergency of this magnitude was called was about eight years ago,
in 2009, in response to the H1N1 influenza virus. The emergency status will last 90 days but can be repeatedly renewed. Soon after Trump’s announcement, Hargan said he had formally declared the emergency. He said that in the current fiscal year his department has invested nearly $900 million in “opioid-specific funding” to support the efforts of state and local governments and others. On Friday, Governor Christie described the prescription drug crisis as “the AIDS epidemic of our generation, but even worse.” “This is so awful. We consume 85% of all the opioids in the world in this country. We are the most medicated country in the world, and it’s unnecessary,” Christie said in an interview on CNN’s “New Day.” He questioned why people aren’t marching in Washington over the epidemic, as they did in response to the AIDS crisis. Christie sought to place the gravity of the crisis in context, explaining that “we have 175 people a day dying. We have a 9/11 every two and a half weeks. If a terrorist organization was killing 175 Americans a day on our soil, we would look into how to make it stop.”
Mourning after Fires Take Lives
Forty-two people were killed and at least 8,900 structures were destroyed when wildfires ripped through Northern California earlier this month. Officials believe it will take months, probably years, to fully recover from the devastation, estimating more than $1 billion in losses. Clean up alone can take until 2018. The wildfires rank as the deadliest series of fires in California history. “We don’t control these things, and it makes you realize how small you are in the world when something
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like this happens,” Sheriff Rob Giordano said during a memorial ceremony honoring the 42 lives lost. “I don’t think we understand the level at which it is going to impact lives, and the community will be different.” The fires that erupted on October 8 forced about 100,000 people to evacuate. In just Sonoma County alone, 23 people lost their lives. On Saturday, the county hosted a Day of Remembrance for those who perished, ringing a memorial bell to honor the 42 people who died in Sonoma, Napa, Yuba and Mendocino counties. Hundreds of residents gathered on Bailey Field under the mantra “Sonoma Strong.” Those gone were sons and daughters. A former Navy lieutenant, a wildlife biologist. The youngest was 14. The oldest, 100. “It’s events like these that teach us how fragile life really is,” Giordano told the crowd. “Really, the No. 1 focus of today is to not forget the people we lost.” Gov. Jerry Brown declared Saturday a Day of Remembrance of the Northern California Fires, ordering flags be flown at half-staff over the state capitol. The mood was similarly solemn but hopeful at the ceremony, where a firefighter color guard
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“It was incredibly emotional and it was so satisfying to know the men and women that serve our country would come and assist us,” Appel said on Thursday. “It was actually quite mind-blowing and incredibly humbling.”
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played mournful tunes on bagpipes and a choir sang songs of solidarity. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi spoke at the event during her tour of the wildfire zone, presenting a commemorative flag for victims and first responders to Santa Rosa Fire Chief Tony Gossner. She told the audience there was one thing to offer in the wake of such devastation. “We can give you hope. Hope is where it always has been. Sitting right there between faith and love,” Pelosi
said. “Love in the air is thicker than smoke.” On Monday, 17-year-old Kressa Shepherd died from the burns she sustained in the fire. She is the 43rd victim of the raging fires. Kressa was a straight-A student in high school; her brother, who was 14, died as the family escaped from their home in Redwood Valley on October 9. Her parents are still recovering from severe burns that cover major portions of their body.
Lost & Found at Sea Jennifer Appel and Tasha Fuiava are counting their blessings. The two women from Hawaii along with their two dogs were lost at sea since May. Last Wednesday, the group was rescued by the U.S. Navy, and all four were alive and well. They had drifted about 900 miles southeast of Japan, according to a Navy statement.
Appel described the situation prior to the rescue as “very depressing” and “very hopeless.” “When I saw the grey boat on the edge of the horizon, my heart leapt because I knew we were about to be saved,” she said. “Because I honestly believed we were going to die within the next 24 hours.” On May 3, the four boarded their boat, the Sea Nymph, from Hawaii and headed for Tahiti, a 2,600 mile journey ahead of them. All was well until May 30 when they were hit by bad weather that flooded the engine. They kept sailing but strayed off course. The ship’s mast also got damaged, compromising the structural integrity and limiting the Sea Nymph’s capabilities to maneuver. And then the ship lost its communications capabilities. After two months Appel and Fuiava realized that they should have arrived in Tahiti by then and began sending out daily distress calls for 98 consecutive days; they weren’t close enough to any other boats or shore stations to be heard. “You can’t get any help at all because you’re in the middle of nowhere,” Fuiava explained. Luckily, the two planned their journey smartly and had years’ worth of dry goods, including oatmeal, pasta and rice, and a water purifier. Finally, after five months of sailing, a Taiwanese fishing vessel spotted them. The fishermen attempted to tow the sailboat, but when they failed, they contacted the U.S. Coast Guard. The USS Ashland, a ship based in Sasebo, Japan, was near the area on routine deployment and reached the damaged sailboat on Wednesday morning. “The U.S. Navy is postured to assist any distressed mariner of any nationality during any type of situation,” said Cmdr. Steven Wasson, Ashland commanding officer. The women and their pet dogs, Zeus and Valentine, were given medical assessments and will remain
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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aboard the USS Ashland until its next port of call, the Navy said.
DA Spota Indicted; Resigns A district attorney is responsible for prosecuting criminals, but who prosecutes the DA when he is the criminal? Suffolk County District Attorney Thomas Spota was indicted by a federal grand jury with “shocking
and appalling” charges last week. The case claims that Spota and a top assistant district attorney attempted to cover up the brutal beating of a suspect by a shamed police chief. This arrest had been brewing for a long time. Chief James Burke was accused of beating a handcuffed suspect inside a Smithtown police precinct in 2012. The suspect, Christopher Loeb, had broken into Burke’s police-issued SUV and took a gun belt, ammo, a box of cigars, a humidor, and other items. During the trial, Spota, 76, and
McPartland, 51, ran interference for Burke, pressuring witnesses from cooperating with federal investigators, prosecutors said. In April 2013, the FBI and federal prosecutors launched a grand jury probe into Loeb’s beating and eventually the focus expanded to include obstruction of justice. When Spota and McPartland learned of grand jury subpoenas to Suffolk County police officers in June 2013, the feds said they immediately began a “four-year attempt to obstruct that investigation.”
Burke eventually pleaded guilty to the crime and was sentenced to 46 months in jail for violating Loeb’s civil rights. Loeb is now suing Suffolk County over the attack. Throughout the last several years Spota, McPartland and Burke, before he was in prison, allegedly resorted to threats and intimidation to force witnesses and co-conspirators to be uncooperative with federal authorities, lie under oath and hold back relevant information on Loeb’s beating. According to court papers, Spota, McPartland, Burke and other members of the police department “had numerous meetings and telephone conversations wherein they discussed the assault.” The pair “have grossly and outrageously violated their positions of trust and operated in a manner more akin to criminal enterprise than a district attorney’s office,” prosecutors said. Spota and McPartland face four counts: conspiracy to tamper with witnesses and obstruct an official proceeding; witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding; obstruction of justice; and accessory after the fact to the deprivation of civil rights. They both face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Both defendants pleaded not guilty and were let out on $500,000 bail on Wednesday. Outside court, Spota’s lawyer, Alan Vinegrad, told reporters his client, Spota, “committed no crime” and “looks forward to vindicating himself in court.” Ironically, when Spota ran for DA office in 2002 he vowed to crack down on municipal corruption. On Thursday, after the news of his indictment broke, Spota resigned from his position.
George Washington Not OK Here It was sort of inevitable, but it is still a sad picture of the state of affairs in the United States.
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Recently, leaders at a church in Alexandria, Virginia, at which the first president of the United States worshipped have decided that a plaque honoring George Washington needs to be removed. The church will take down a memorial marking the pew where Washington sat with his family, saying it is not acceptable to all worshipers. “The plaques in our sanctuary make some in our presence feel unsafe or unwelcome,” leaders said, a reference to the fact that Washington was a slaveholder. “Some visitors and guests who worship with us choose not to return because they receive an unintended message from the prominent presence of the plaques.” They concluded, “Many in our congregation feel a strong need for the church to stand clearly on the side of ‘all are welcome – no exceptions,’”
they concluded. The church will also be removing a memorial to Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee. President Trump had warned earlier this year that censoring and demolishing statues of Confederate leaders would lead to dishonoring American great leaders like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson as well.
JFK Files Released, More to Come
Dozens of files were released last week concerning the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The documents had previously been
labeled as top secret. Many thought that their release would put an end to the myriad conspiracy theories that have surrounded the shooting for the past 55 years. The release of the documents was required by a 1992 law that mandated their release after 25 years. Some of the documents were not released by President Donald Trump at the request of the FBI and the CIA. Trump directed the intelligence agencies to re-review the remaining files to rule out any national security concerns. Included in the files that were released was information that U.S. military planners estimated that they would need 261,000 troops and between 10 to 15 days to invade Cuba, oust Fidel Castro, and take control of the country, according to an August 8, 1962 memo. We also learn that, two days after JFK’s assassination, the FBI thought that Jack Ruby was identical to a Florida racketeer named Rubin. Additionally, the documents reveal that two weeks before the assassination a person named Robert C. Rawls overheard someone in a bar in New Orleans offering to bet a hundred dollars that President Kennedy would not be alive in three weeks’ time. But, the document reads, “he does not recall ever seeing the man before and is not certain that he would recognize him if he did. He admits being somewhat intoxicated at the time and said the man also was in an intoxicated condition.” Some more information that comes from the files, although not surprising, was the fact that the CIA was involved in possibly assassinating Castro; that J. Edgar Hoover was obsessed with American Communists and with Martin Luther King, Jr.’s purported ties to them; that Lee Harvey Oswald went to Mexico City in the fall of 1963, probably in order to try and get to Cuba, and while he was there had contacts with Russian intelligence in the person of embassy staffers; that Lyndon Johnson never entirely bought the Warren Commission’s conclusion that Oswald had acted alone; and that Oswald was a good, not an inept, shot. (This last fact, known already from Oswald’s service record from his time in the Marines, is sourced to a Cuban diplomat in the released files.) The files that were not yet released will be revealed by the National Archives on a rolling basis in the coming weeks. The FBI has now said that many of the files to be released will be heavily redacted to protect individuals who provided information during
the investigation of the shooting. The Bureau is concerned that those who cooperated may find their lives in danger if their names are publicized.
Danger Here!
For a steady 20 years the crime rate in the U.S. was declining but in 2015 it took a turn and rose for the first time in two decades. Officials recently reported a similar trend for 2016, marking the second consecutive year. There were 1.2 million violent crimes reported in 2016, up 4.1% from 2015. The spike is blamed on a few large cities that are facing high violence, like St. Louis (#2 in the country), and is broken into four categories: murder and non-negligent manslaughter, crimes against women, robbery, and aggravated assault. For every 100,000 U.S. residents, 386 violent crimes were committed in 2016. In cities with high crime rates, there are over 1,000 cases per 100,000 people. There seems to be a trend in highly violent cities that have weak police-community relationships. In an interview with 24/7 Wall St., John Roman, a senior fellow with the non-partisan research organization NORC at the University of Chicago, explains, “[In] a community that has demonstrated in the streets, that doesn’t trust the police the way it used to” – places like Chicago, Baltimore, and San Bernardino – “... people won’t come forward as witnesses, they won’t talk to the police about why the violence is occurring.” In such conditions, Roman says, crime tends to escalate. Looking to move? Beware. These are the ten most dangerous cities in America: 1) Detroit, Michigan 2) St. Louis, Missouri 3) Memphis, Tennessee 4) Baltimore, Maryland 5) Rockford, Illinois 6) Kansas City, Missouri 7) Cleveland, Ohio 8) Milwaukee, Wisconsin 9) Little Rock, Arkansas 10) Oakland, California
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Cooling His Heels Luckily, Jeremy Van Ert was not hurt when he got locked into a store’s walk-in cooler last week. In fact, he kept his cool. The 38-year-old from Wisconsin entered the cooler to buy beer on Tuesday night. But he became trapped when the cooler automatically locked at midnight. Stuck with the tough decision of either alerting employees – and not getting his beer – or staying in the cooler, Van Ert chose the latter. And he got his beer. In fact, during the night, Van Ert consumed 54 ounces of beer – and tripped over a stacked of beer cans, breaking a few of them open in his drunken state. In the morning a customer noticed Van Ert – who was probably inert – and alerted employees. He fled the store in a panic and was subsequently picked up by police.
Up
Be careful as you leave Party City with all your party balloons – we don’t want you to fly away. Tom Morgan, though, wanted to sail the skies with a batch of balloons. The 38-year-old from Britain flew over the Johannesburg countryside last week seated in a chair with 80 helium balloons attached. He managed to go 15 miles in 2 hours, reaching an altitude of 8,300 feet, before coming down near the airport. Tom was inspired to attempt the feat when he read about it in a 1905 book about gas balloon racing. According to Tom, “It was a fairly indescribable feeling, wafting across Africa on a cheap camping chair dangling from a load of balloons.” He and his two friends spent two days filling the balloons with helium. Tom is part of a group called The Adventurists.
Tom is not the first daredevil to attempt this feat. Back in 2008, a South American priest was killed while attempting to use balloons to fly. “The problem was finding a good weather window and it was difficult to protect the balloons as they kept bursting,” Tom explained. He had tried to do this before – at least three time in Botswana – but winds ripped his balloons to shreds. “I didn’t know what height the balloons would burst, or what the sun would do to them. At 8,000 feet they started accelerating – into the flight path,” Tom said about the journey. Flying the skies with a batch of balloons may just be the answer for serenity. “It was silent and magical and the view was amazing,” Tom said. We believe you, Tom, but we’ll take your word for it.
The Off-Tune Ticket Heading to Canada? Whatever you do, do not start singing – at least while you’re driving. Last month Taoufik Moalla was pulled over by police in Montreal and received a $149 ticket for “screaming in public.” But Moalla insists he wasn’t screaming. In fact, he says that he was passionately singing a ‘90s song while driving to buy a water bottle. When he noticed police cars following him, he pulled over. Four police officers approached his car and asked him if he was screaming; he told the officers he was singing. He got the ticket. Montreal bylaw states “to cause disorder by screaming” violates “peace and tranquility” – an offense that is punishable by a fine up to $2,000, according to CTV News. “I don’t know if my voice was very bad and that’s why I got the ticket, but I was very shocked,” Moalla says. “I understand if they are doing their job, they are allowed to check if everything’s okay, if I kidnapped someone or if there’s danger inside but I would never expect they would give me a ticket for that.” Listen, buddy. We don’t know how bad you sing – and we’re not interested in finding out.
Flying Solo It was a “totally surreal” experience, Karon Grieve said. She was
referring to her recent trip to Greece. Actually it was the flight itself that was far from usual.
Karon paid $60 for the flight from Scotland to Greece. When she boarded she was in for a surprise: she was the only passenger on the whole plane. “The crew arrived – the pilot, first officer and the air stewards. And they all knew my name,” she said. “They all came on and said, ‘Hi Karen, how are you?’ They were all laughing and saying I’ve got my own private jet.” Full plane or not, flight attendants still need to go through the safety procedures. “I couldn’t stop laughing. I just keeled over laughing,” Karon said of the informational speech tailored for one. The flight on Sunday was the last one from Glasgow to the Greek island of Crete this year. It’s “not unusual for the final outbound flight of the season to have fewer bookings than normal,” a Jet2 spokeswoman told CNN. “We’re delighted that Karon got to experience our VIP customer service.” Interestingly, the flight back from Crete to the UK was “completely full of customers.” Karon tweeted a photo of herself with rows of empty seats in the background. “Amazing flight Glasgow to Heraklion yesterday I was the only passenger. Captain Laura and crew amazing, felt like a VIP all day!” she wrote. Wonder what seat she chose.
Slurp No More
Does the slurping sound your kid makes while eating chicken soup with lokshen make you crazy? This invention may be the perfect Chanukah gift
for you. A Japanese instant noodle company has created a noise-canceling ramen fork that covers up loud slurping sounds. Nissin, makers of the popular instant noodle Cup Noodle, introduced the Otohiko, a special fork meant to ease cultural tensions by drowning out the slurping sounds Japanese natives often make while eating ramen. “Otohiko provides a magnificent solution for ‘Noodle Slurping Noise’ – the cultural friction between the people who enjoy slurping noodles and the people who feels the noise uncomfortable,” the company said. A microphone embedded inside the large, white fork detects the sound of slurping, prompting the user’s smartphone to play a sound effect using near-field communication. Better order the shalom bayis fork soon. Only 5,000 will be made – and each one costs $130. Well, it’s really the cost of your sanity.
Canine Coffee
Coffee for dogs? It’s a must, according to a woman in Lithuania. Agota Jakutyte recently invented a coffee to be consumed purely by canines. Even more surprising is the name she gave her product: Rooffee, an obvious play on the word coffee but one that doesn’t sit well with many people. Coffee is actually not healthy for dogs and can cause vomiting and seizures and may even lead to death. And so Rooffee doesn’t contain any coffee. Instead, it’s made with herbs and vegetables, including dandelion root, hawthorn, chicory, burdock, and carrots. So what’s the point? According to the product press release, the drink will provide better digestive and immune systems, a stronger heart, and healthier skin to dogs. It can even be consumed by humans. Agota said she will be changing the name of her beverage. May we suggest a better name? Pawfee sounds kind of cute.
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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Around the
Community Community Support for RCCS in Far Rockaway
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he forecast was grim this past Sunday as heavy rains moved into the area. For most, coming out to the RCCS breakfast meant venturing out into a torrential downpour and bracing the heavy winds. But the Far Rockaway community wasn’t going to be deterred. Their fellow brothers and sisters, who have been stricken by a most terrible disease, were depending on them for support, and the community wasn’t about to let them down. RCCS had been there for their neighbors, and now, no matter the obstacle, they were going to be there for RCCS. A committee was built to help ensure the event’s success. Representatives were enlisted from every shul in the Far Rockaway area. In the neighboring areas of Bayswater and Inwood, as well, different committee members joined to help build this great event. It was through their efforts that the breakfast would have such an impressive showing. The local rabbanim also came together in support of RCCS. Many of them recognized RCCS’s profound effect on the community and encouraged their constituents to come out in support of this great organization. One local rav remarked that in all of his tenure as a rav the only organization, besides his shul, that he ever implored his community to support is Hatzalah. However, after hearing the great work and
impact that RCCS has on the immediate area, the rav felt compelled to instruct all of his mispallim to come to the event and help out in any way that they could. The result of all these efforts was a beautiful event that not only directly helped the cholim of RCCS, but attested to the great chessed that permeates the Far Rockway, Inwood, and Bayswater communities. As soon as one entered the home of Eli and Cindy Becker, he was immediately enveloped by the warmth, caring, and love perpetuated by this great organization. For those unfamiliar with RCCS, it gave them an opportunity to learn more about the great work that the organization does on a daily basis. Even for those who were acquainted with the organization, the breakfast allowed them to meet some of the people who not
only work for RCCS but also those who have been helped by this great organization. Rabbi Eliezer Braun began the program by sharing his own moving and emo-
cancer patient would truly be lost in the darkness of their dreaded disease. As he put it, “A cancer patient doesn’t know what to pack when they are taking a trip
tional story. Through a remarkable blend of humor and sincerity, Eliezer was able to connect the crowd to the lifesaving work of RCCS, explaining to everyone that without RCCS’s guidance a
to Sloan Kettering Hospital. But RCCS , with their great guidance and wisdom, packs the suitcase for every cancer patient.” One donor remarked that because of Eliezer’s speech he was going
to quadruple his donation. Rabbi Aron Steier, Regional Director of RCCS, followed Eliezer with some beautiful heartfelt stories. He shared with the crowd about how RCCS knows exactly what the patient is going through and that their empathy is unparalleled and their caring knows no end. The crowd was visibly moved by his passionate words. The event was a true testament to the wondrous chessed of the Far Rockaway, Bayswater, and Inwood communities. The over-120 attendees that ignored the weather to come out and support this amazing organization gave a tremendous chizuk to all of the cholim of RCCS. May this event serve as a shemirah to the entire community that nobody ever again needs to come for the services of RCCS.
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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Around the Community
YOSS Welcomes Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan
A
s part of his ongoing aid and support for private school education across New York State, Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan visited the Yeshiva of South Shore on Sunday, October 29. Accompanied by the Republican candidate for Nassau County Executive, Jack Martins, Senator Flanagan toured classes and the facilities, marveling at the accomplishments of the Yeshiva’s founder Rabbi Binyamin Kamenetzky, zt”l. Escorted by Rabbi Mordechai Kamenetzky, Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Dovid Kramer, Executive Director, and a contingent from the Yeshiva’s Board of Directors, the visitors joined the students in Rabbi Schulman’s 4th grade class. The boys, and their rebbe, greeted the politicians warmly and shared the lesson they were learning on their Smartboard about Moshe caring for his sheep. This translated to the ul-
Rabbi Kamenetzky and Rabbi Kramer showing the Senator around YOSS
timate charge of caring for Hashem’s sheep – the Jewish nation. Rabbi Kamenetzky explained the role of a senator and a Majority Leader to the boys. Senator Flanagan, garnering a bit from the lesson, also addressed the class about the importance of good citizenship and caring for others. Senator Flanagan and Senator Martins then headed across the street to the Hollander Early Childhood Center where they were met by about three dozen community leaders, rabbis and activists. The diverse group represented most of the community’s shuls, yeshivas and charitable organizations in addition to the Orthodox Union and Agudath Israel of America. They shared ideas and thoughts over breakfast. Rabbi Kamenetzky welcomed the crowd and introduced Rabbi Shmuel Lefkowitz, Vice President of Community Affairs for Agudath Israel
י בה ד ר ך ששי מרן רבי אברהם יפה’ןאזיצ’’תן ’’ע ל
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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Around the Community of America. Rabbi Lefkowitz spoke about the strong advocacy both Sen-
ator Flanagan and Senator Martins have demonstrated on behalf of the
Jewish community. Senator Flanagan introduced Senator Martins,
who spoke about his commitment to yeshiva education. He stressed the need to help private school parents maintain their right to choose, by finding ways to ease the overbearing costs of tuition. “My father, Rav Binyamin, zt”l, had the foresight to develop relationships with political leaders back in the early years of the Five Towns Jewish community,” said Rabbi Kamenetzky. “Those relationships were vital for the growth of this community and every single one of its institutions. We invited Senator Flanagan and Senator Martins to show our support and appreciation for the important grants they have helped secure for our yeshivas, our synagogues, and, most importantly, our children.” Everyone in attendance agreed that the most important message of the day was the need to vote on Election Day, Tuesday, November 7th.
Senators John Flanagan and Jack Martins visit the YOSS fourth grade
Senator Jack Martins addressing community leaders at the YOSS breakfast
The senators met with community leaders and activists
Senator John Flanagan speaking
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Around the Community
Jews in 1,416 Cities around the World Join in the “Shabbat Project”
I
n its fifth year, a fast-growing movement that encourages Jews around the world to observe a single Shabbat attracted record-setting levels of participation. From October 27-28, 2017, The Shabbat Project—which was introduced in South Africa in 2013 before going global the following year—featured events attended by more than one million people in 97 countries and 1,416 cities around the world (up from 1,152 cities in 2016). “It was deeply inspiring to watch this movement reach new heights in 2017,” says South African Chief Rabbi Dr. Warren Goldstein, the founder and director of The Shabbat Project. “Each year, more and more Jews are coming together across every conceivable divide—language, culture, ethnicity, geography, and observance—to enjoy the simple, yet profound gifts of Shabbat. The Shabbat Project is uniting world Jewry by getting us back to the basics.” In the U.S. alone – from Teaneck to Thompsonville, Miami to Mableton, Baltimore to Bridgeport – there were a total of 586 participating cities. Of particular note this year, Shabbat Project activities served as a refuge and
safe haven in areas of North America that were recently affected by either natural or man-made disasters. Following the hurricanes in Houston and South Florida, the earthquakes in Mexico, and the deadly mass shooting in Las Vegas, Shabbat Project events in those locations enabled participants to take a collective deep breath and enjoy the restorative 25 hours of the day of rest. In Israel, where President Reuven Rivlin officially endorsed the project – joining public figures as varied as Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky, Ron Huldai, Yair Lapid, Aviv Alush, Natan Sharansky and Amir Ohana – there were 307 participating cities (including kibbutzim and moshavim/ yishuvim) and 331 main events taking place across the country, not including countless Shabbat meals and kiddush gatherings in streets, parks and apartment buildings. Europe (48 participating cities in France, 33 in Russia, and around 100,000 people taking part in the UK, where Prime Minister Theresa May commended the project); Latin America (138 cities); and Australia (Sydney and Melbourne each had more than 10,000 participants) all had record numbers celebrating
Netanya, Israel
Costa Rica
this year’s Shabbat Project, while countries such as Mozambique, Cyprus, Paraguay and Venezuela hosted Shabbat Project festivities for the first time. Stories big and small are already beginning to emerge from across the globe – 1,000 Israelis eating dinner in a shipping hangar in Tel Aviv; a tour group of 30 people from around the world opting to keep a full Shabbat together in Marrakesh, Morocco; 3,000 at an open-air musical Kabbalat Shabbat overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge; the lone Jew serving in an army regiment in Abuja, Nigeria who kept Shabbat with the rest of the Jewish world; the estimated 20,000 people taking part in San Diego; the two South African ex-
pats keeping Shabbat together in Amman, Jordan. There were the 750 people at a free block-party Shabbat luncheon served in a parking lot in Toco Hills, Georgia; the hundreds of Jewish teenagers brought together by the EnerJew youth movement to celebrate Shabbat in 40 cities in the Former Soviet Union; the “Dark Tisches” – Friday night meditative gatherings held in total darkness – in venues across Johannesburg and Cape Town; the “pop-up shuls” in places where no synagogues were within walking distance. In Kochav Yair, central Israel, the “third meal” was laid out on 25 streets as neighbors of all levels of observance got to know each other better. On the Mexico-U.S. border, a binational challah bake brought together the communities of Tijawana and South County, SD. In Puerto Iguazo, Argentina, the owner of a local guest house hosted a full Shabbaton free-of-charge, including kosher meals, for a group of 14 Israeli backpackers. To coordinate the global initiative on such a large scale, a centralized team worked with around 8,000 volunteer partners worldwide – up from 6,000 partners in 2016. At the Shabbat Project headquarters in Johannesburg, a team of designers, copywriters and campaign strategists worked
around the clock, custom-designing marketing and educational materials for hundreds of cities and executing printruns in the tens of thousands, while eight separate help desks at the international call center in Tel Aviv fielded tens of thousands of calls and emails across 10 different languages. That the Shabbat Project was able to spread to new cities and reach new people can be attributed in no small part to a Facebook campaign that reached a collective 5.2 million people worldwide. “The response from around the world has been overwhelming and heart-warming, and shows the remarkable depth and reach of The Shabbat Project,” says Rabbi Goldstein. “There has been a great outpouring of joy and excitement, with so many people touched in deeply personal ways. Such a visceral reaction demonstrates that the ideas of Jewish unity and Shabbat are compelling to Jews from all walks of life. “From the reports that are emerging, it’s clear that there has again been a significant increase in participation this year – and I am confident this social movement will continue to expand as more and more people taste the magic of Shabbat and experience the beauty of Jews coming together in a spirit of unity.”
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Aaron’s Way Homework Program
I
t’s 7:20 pm on Monday night, a time when the halls of Yeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv are usually quiet in the interlude between sedorim. But tonight, something is different. From behind the doors of the Bais Medrash Kattan comes the sound of dozens of young voices, excitedly discussing various topics. Peeking through the win-
dows, one sees the tables and chairs packed with 6th through 8th grade boys from schools and yeshivos from across the community; in one corner two boys sit poring over their Gemara notes from class that day; at the next table four boys are huddled over a poster board that they are completing for an upcoming presentation; at
the table behind them sits a boy reviewing his bar mitzvah parsha for his leining in a few weeks. All of them are here united by one thing: the Aaron’s Way Homework Program, l’ilui nishmas Aaron Tepfer, a”h. At the end of the exhilarating learning there will be a short but entertaining and thought-provoking story, followed by
a raffle and then refreshments and exclusive use of the beautiful Sh’or Yoshuv gym. The program takes place every Monday evening, from 7:00 pm until 8:15 pm. There is no cost, and all 6th through 8th graders are welcome to join us. Come by and check it out!
Five Towns Residents Make JITC All Stars List By Tammy Mark
A
ttorney Frayda Ginsburg and author David Adler are two of the accomplished Orthodox professionals named as All Stars by the Jew in the City organization. Now in its fifth year, the JITC All Stars Awards celebrate a remarkable and diverse group of individuals who have maintained a Torah-observant lifestyle through their professional ascent. Woodmere resident Adler is the author of the international best-selling Cam Jansen children’s book series, among others. Ginsburg, a Cedarhurst resident, is Burberry’s
Director of Legal – Americas. Past years’ lists have included accomplished individuals residing in or originating from Long Island such as 360i CEO Sarah Hofstetter and table tennis phenom Estee Ackerman, as well as Emmy Award winning producer and writer Ilana Wernick, MSG General Counsel Laurence Burian, and Disney animator Saul Blinkoff. The impressive All Stars list for 2017 also includes David Mazouz, teen star of Fox’s hit show Gotham; the first Hasidic New York Civil Court Judge, The Honorable Ruchie Freier; Ford Motor Company’s Vice President and Treasurer, Neil
Schloss; A. Zayat, owner and breeder of Triple Crown winning racehorse American Pharoah; Samuel Rascoff, former director of the NYPD’s Intelligence Analysis Unit; and Chaim Lebovitz, CEO of BrainStorm Cell Therapeutics, the first biotech company to produce a treatment which has been clinically shown to reverse the symptoms of ALS. This year’s celebration will be held in midtown Manhattan on Sunday, November 5, 2017, featuring the current awardees along with several previous winners in attendance. Dubbed the “greatest night in Orthodox Jewish success,” the event promises to be both fun and inspirational.
Jew in the City is the organization dedicated to re-branding Orthodox Jews to the world through digital media. A non-profit founded and directed by Allison Josephs since 2007, JITC harnesses the power of social media to break down stereotypes about religious Jews, offer a humorous and meaningful look into Orthodox Judaism, and demystify important Jewish concepts like Shabbat, kosher, and mikvah. For more information, please contact info@jewinthecity.com /
http://www.jewinthecit y.com/ events.
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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Around the Community
Understanding 9/11
O
n Thursday, October 26, the eighth graders of Shulamith School for Girls visited the 9/11 Memorial Museum and the World Trade Center Observatory. The students, who were born a few years after 9/11, participated in an educational workshop entitled, “Events of the Day,” in which they learned about everything that occurred on that infamous day in American history. They closely examined some of the artifacts in the main exhibit, including a heavily damaged fire truck and a piece of the antenna that once topped the North Tower. After the workshop, students had additional time to tour the museum in small groups. The group enjoyed lunch in Westfield World Trade Center. They then had the opportunity to take the elevator to the World Trade Center Observatory, where they marveled at the spectacular view from the 100th floor of the building. Returning to ground level, the group was met by Mr. Yaakov Morgenstern whose daughter, Nechama, graduated from Shulamith last year. Mr. Morgenstern shared memories of
his sister, Nancy, one of the victims of the terror attacks. Everyone viewed Nancy’s name on the 9/11 Memorial and Mr. Morgenstern explained the significance of various aspects of the memorial. Many of the girls commented that though they had often been told about 9/11, they had never before truly understood its significance to individuals and to our nation until they visited the museum.
The Real Deal
age of 70. I told Yoel that Carole impresses me with her constant drive to learn more and attends more shiurim in one week than most men go to in a year! Her voracious spiritual appetite is insatiable. Rarely does a Shabbos go by where she doesn’t stop to chat about a halacha or ask a piercing question on the parsha. “Yoel, she is truly epic,” I said. He agreed and was floored by her accomplishments. On the table adjacent to us sits Max. Max is on a spiritual trajectory that few have ever seen. “Yoel, he is an up and coming spiritual superstar and will definitely make us all proud,” I confidently stated. Sitting behind me was Alex P., our newest addition to the BJX family. This past year, he joined the elite “Club Klal Yisroel” and has kept me mesmerized by his meteoric spiritual growth. “Yoel, Alex puts us all to shame with his bren and thirst for Torah and mitzvos,” I exclaimed! The next encounter was the most emotional and mind-blowing one. “The next three gentlemen have front row season ticket center-ice seats in Gan Eden,” I said. I was referring to the legendary trio of Moshe,
By Professor Ezriel Rovt
T
his year has been an exciting one because my eldest daughter Shani married a wonderful person, Yoel Muller, the newest addition to our family. As is customary, the newlywed couple came to us for Shabbos sheva brachos. In most instances, the first shul experience the chosson would experience consists of the usual mazal tovs and the routine social platitudes. That was the furthest from the truth on that first Shabbos Yoel davened at BJX. After davening, I introduced Yoel to Rabbis Yitzchok and Moshe Fingerer, the driving life force behind BJX, as well as the regular crowd of FFBs and BTs that frequent the hallowed halls of our beloved BJX. I told Yoel that BJX is beyond special because of several key individuals that daven here. I introduced him to our beloved Carole Kahana, who became Torah-observant at the ripe young
Yaakov Morgenstern speaks to the eighth grade about his sister, Nancy, a”h, on the grounds of the 9-11 Memorial
Eighth graders pose inside the Oculus
Shlomo, and Aryeh, three precious souls from Russia who, on their own volition, decided to have brissim. “Can you imagine what it takes to get a bris when you are almost thirty?” I said. “The mesiras nefesh is otherworldly – Avrohom Avinu and the heavenly court gave these heroes a standing ovation when they did this act,” I said, shaking my head in disbelief. A baby has no choice, but these warriors of Klal Yisroel chose to do it as adults. If this doesn’t stir up the heavens, I don’t know what will! “Now you know why I daven at BJX,” I proudly told my son in-law. “Where else can you find spiritual giants like Carole, Max, Alex, Moshe, Shlomo, or Aryeh?” I asked incredulously. Alex just returned from his first trip to Israel. He said at Shalosh Seudos: “I was always told that chutz l’aretz is different than Israel. I didn’t know what it meant. When I landed back in NY I felt such a void. I can’t explain it, but in Israel I felt like I was home. I don’t have that feeling in NY. I told my host Clark this afternoon at Shabbos lunch that there’s only one
place on Earth outside of Israel that makes me feel that holiness and belonging: BJX. When I am davening at BJX I feel just like I am at the Kotel.” As he spoke other students listening were nodding in agreement. Hearing these words, I was overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude to Hashem that b”H we have such a place. There are so many heroes at BJX. Everywhere you look there’s someone growing and reconnecting to Torah-true Judaism – someone who puts a smile on Hashem’s face (kave yochel). Many people like to introduce their new sons in- law to the wealthy or well-connected people in shul. At BJX we know what the real deal is. At BJX, greatness is measured in spiritual currency. With help from Hashem and with dogged determination of our precious Rabbis Yitzchok and Moshe Fingerer, we will stem the tide of spiritual indifference and apathy. We will reignite the burned out and the unaffiliated souls that make up our neighborhoods. We will reach out and make a difference and usher in Moshiach in our days!
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
49
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This Shabbos, Cheshvan 15: Daf Yomi Bavli – Sanhedrin 11 / Daf Yomi Yerushalmi – Bava Kamma 23 Mishnah Yomi – Beitzah 3:6-7 / Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Yomi – 11:21-12:4
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
“Justice Justice Thou Shalt Pursue” By Hon. Gary F. Knobel
A
s a judicial candidate for re-election to the District Court, I have had to reflect on my time on the bench during the last 12 years. I thank Hashem every day for the opportunity and privilege of adjudicating hundreds of civil and criminal cases in the District Court and presiding for the past four years in Supreme Court over the majority of pending guardianship cases. I have dedicated 34 years to public service in the court system, striving daily to measure up to the admonition by Moshe thousands of years ago to pursue justice. Those words are prominently displayed above my desk, and I take them very seriously. My commitment to Jewish values and our tradition serve as the predicate for the decisions I reach. I have been fortunate to be given a sacred trust to be fair, impartial and correct on all matters to be adjudicated before me. Justice is an elastic term and can mean different things to different people. A computer or robot imbued with artificial intelligence can strictly apply statutes or principles of law. But that does not create justice. To properly dispense justice the application of law must be tempered by compassion and the spirit of Hashem when possible. To be a great judge, knowledge of the law must be combined with patience and respect for litigants and attorneys, who should be given an opportunity to be heard. People need to believe and feel that law is on the side of fairness. A judge must have the strength to exhibit legal courage in the face of external pressures. When a 16 year-old boy who is in handcuffs before you for his first arrest on the charge of possession of five packets of heroin, and the assistant district attorney is asking for bail to be set in the sum of $50,000.00, and the boy’s indigent parents are crying at the rail, and you have 60 seconds to make your decision, what would you do? When you have before you an ap-
plication to remove a mother as the guardian of a 17-year old quadriplegic and place the child in a facility because the mother allegedly cannot properly care for the child, what would you do? Those are two of the real-life decisions, not “reel-life” decisions the berating television judges make on scripted shows, that I have had to make. My record as a jurist has been scrutinized by the bi-partisan Judiciary Committee of the Nassau County Bar Association, and I was again unanimously found “well-qualified” for the District Court bench. I received a Master of Laws degree from New York University and for 14 years I have been an adjunct professor of New York Civil Procedure at Hofstra School of Law. I have also served as an instructor teaching law at the Judicial Institute to newly elected and appointed judges. I was recently president of the NYS District Court Judges Association for a two-year term. I am an appointed member of the state-wide Special Commission on Fiduciary Matters. I am currently a Director on the Board of the Jewish Lawyers Association, and I am Chair of the Judicial Section of the Nassau County Bar Association. I am committed to tikkun olam, delivering food weekly to seniors for 24 years on behalf of Island Harvest and LI Cares. I have served on the English Board of North Shore Hebrew Academy, where my son attended and graduated from, after initially attending HAFTR. I am a member of the Young Israel of Oceanside, and observe Shabbat and kashrut, insisting on being provided with some kosher food at official court functions and closing my guardianship part on all holidays. I hope that by sharing with you my judicial philosophy, qualifications and accomplishments you will be kind enough to vote for me on November 7 on either Row B [Republican] or Row F [Independence] or Row C [Conservative].
Tuff Goes Pink
A
ll work and no play? No way! At Shulamith High School, not only do our students participate in amazing extra-curriculars, they give back to the community in unbelievable ways. This past Sunday, the Woodmere Fitness Club hosted the “Tuff Goes Pink” event, which benefited Sharsharet. Shulamith Track and Field members were on hand to motivate the competitors in the Ultimate Fit Female Challenge. “Our girls were unbelievable!” said Track and Field coach Raina Butler. The students counted repetitions for the com-
petitors and cheered them on to their goals. “Their spirit, decorum, and motivation was just amazing!” Coach Butler said, recounting the inspiring afternoon. “It was really a perfect reflection of what Shulamith represents.” Shulamith High School was proud to participate in an event with such a meaningful impact on the community. The Tuff Goes Pink event raised about $5,000, with all proceeds going to Sharsheret, which supports Jewish women with breast cancer and raises awareness for the community.
Shulamith Scholars Program
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his past week, Shulamith High School rolled out a new model of its eagerly anticipated Scholars Program. Open to high-achieving 9th, 10th, and 11th graders, the Scholars Program is a training ground for visionary leadership. Built around a series of seminars, workshops, field experiences, and guided research, the program is designed to develop in its participants the habits, instincts, and mindset of exemplary leaders. Shulamith Scholars will derive leadership lessons from the teachings and practice of Sheryl Sandberg and Steve Jobs, Golda Meir and Queen Esther, Janet Yellen and Ben Bernanke, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and the biblical Ruth. They will attend conferences, meet artists, scholars, authors, and leaders of industry, and discover how vision and leadership skills play out in the real world. In these settings, they will learn to project a powerful presence, dress for success, and ask tough questions.
For their culminating projects, the Scholars will identify topics, develop hypotheses, create surveys and interview protocols, conduct research, run statistical tests, and prepare digital presentations. Through these experience, the Scholars will build their own leadership capacities for purposeful and courageous vision and for compelling and inspiring communication In previous years, the Scholars Program was an intensive summer experience whose profound impact continues to resonate with its past participants. This year, the program is being extended across the school year to amplify its impact and take advantage of synergies with the Scholars’ classroom study. With its emphasis on women’s leadership in industry, academia, and the Jewish community, the program will co-create with each Scholar a toolbox for success at the forefront of her chosen discipline.
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Engineering Marvels at Yeshiva Darchei Torah
Learn & Live & Go Fish
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n Mr. Fuchs’s eighth grade class at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, the talmidim are not just learning about engineering and building, they are implementing it as well. In the real world, engineers and architects are accompanied by a team of techs and tradespeople who all contribute to the final outcome. In partnership and in groups, the eighth graders have demonstrated this in their projects as well. In the first project, the boys needed to figure out how they could stack 40 cups without the edifice tumbling. After the initial results, they regrouped and started over, tweaking a little here and a little there. Last week the boys figured out various techniques to create a tower with a marshmallow that crowned pieces of pasta, tape and bits of string. This is just the beginning!
G
o fish! That’s just what the boys did at Learn & Live this week for the melacha of tzad, trapping. R’ Nochum Dinowitz gave a most entrapping presentation. All the boys received a special L&L member-
ship card. This coming Sunday iy”H will be the “Swat Team.” For more information regarding L&L please email us at learnandlivefr@gmail. com or call our all new L&L hotline 641-715-3800 pin 932191.
Rabbi Weil at YI of Kew Gardens Hills
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he Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills and the Department of Synagogue and Community Services of the Orthodox Union is pleased to announce that Rabbi Steven Weil will be scholar-in-residence at the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills on Shabbos Parshat Chayei Sara, November 10-11. Rabbi Steven Weil will speak at the Friday night oneg at 7:30pm on
“The 50th Anniversary of the Event That Changed Jewish Destiny: An Analysis of the 6 Day War.” Shabbos day, Rabbi Weil will deliver the sermon in the Main Shul. His topic is “The Charles Bridge over the Vltava River: An Analysis of the Kedusha.” Rabbi Steven Weil will also speak at Seuda Shelishis on Shabbos afternoon following Mincha at 4:05pm on the topic: “An Historical Blueprint:
Analysis and Application of the Ramban’s Approach to Sefer Bereishis.” Rabbi Steven Weil is currently the Senior Managing Director of the Orthodox Union. Rabbi Weil attended Yeshivat Kerem B’Yavneh and Yeshiva University, concurrently completing his ordination at the Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan Theological Seminary and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from NYU’s
Stern School of Business. Davening in the Main Shul begins at 9:00am. This Scholar-in-Residence Shabbos is sponsored by Larry and Rivka Sheldon in memory of their parents Irwin and Ruth Sheldon, and Leon and Shirley Blatt a”h. All members of the community are invited to participate.
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Mesivta Ateres Yaakov Ruth & Hyman Simon High School 131 Washington Ave, Lawrence New York 11559 | ateresyaakov@ateresyaakov.com
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Active Student Government and many clubs Varsity & Intramural sports and competitions Literary Journals and Newspaper Model Bais Din | Torah Bowl ARISTA | Extensive chesed program
Call us at 516.374.6465 or visit us on the web at www.AteresYaakov.com
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community PHOTO CREDIT: IVAN H NORMAN
HaRav Groner, zt”l
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siyum was held this week in honor of the 12th yahrtzeit of Harav Shimon Groner, zt”l, in Yeshiva Ateres Shimon. Rav Groner was a gentle giant in Torah and avodah. He was a rebbi for many different age groups and levels of learning for many years. Later in life he became mashgiach in Yeshiva Chaim Berlin for close to 30 years. Rav Groner had hundreds of talmidim who were positively affected by his warm and positive demeanor. He
exuded gadlus in Torah and deveikus in avodah. His davening was legendary. He stood during tefilla like an eved lifnai rabbo with total subservience and humility. The entire world did not exists when he davened. At the same time he was mighty, like a lion, in the world of Torah. He would learn for all hours of the day and well into the night. This love of Torah is what he instilled in his children and talmidim, as he planted a true love for avodas Hashem. He leaves behind a
L-R: Rabbi Shaya Neuberg, son-in-law; Rabbi Yosef Newcomb, rebbi; Rabbi Mordechai Groner, Rosh HaYeshiva; Rabbi Binyomin Sussman, rebbi; and Rabbi Nachum Greenberg, rebbi
rich legacy of talmidim and children that have seen this
greatness and understand the achrayis to continue his
tremendous avodah and kavod Shamayim.
Rabbi Eytan Feiner Addresses Shevach Students
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hessed is an invaluable aspect of life at Shevach High School. The students are inculcated with an appreciation of this important middah, and the Queens community gains tremendously from it. This year, the theme of their popular chessed program is “The Cycle of Chessed.” As Chessed heads Tali Feldstein, Sari Max, Perel Schwartz, and Chani Weinberg explained, this is because just as the word the Torah uses for giving to others, “venasnu,” is a palindrome, so too every act of chessed that one does ultimately comes back to benefit the doer. The phrase “chessed yesovevenu”
der the guidance of Assistant Principal Rebbitzen Chani Grunblatt, worked very hard to bring these concepts to life. On Thursday, October 19, each of the walls in Shevach’s MPR was beautifully decorated, bringing out a different aspect of their Chessed “recycling” theme. One wall had a mural of a forest scene with the headline “Helping Make the World a Better Place.” Another wall was covered in newspapers and titled, “ReNEWS Your Helping Hand.” A third wall had hundreds of mini recycling cans, each with a Shevach student’s name and a designated perek of Tehillim for her to say everyday as a
was also incorporated into their theme, inferring that one should constantly be surrounded by chessed. The Chessed heads, un-
chessed for the cholim in our community. This wall had on it the phrase “Yes you CAN!” The program began with the Shevach student body
being regaled with a riveting address delivered by Rabbi Eytan Feiner, Rav of the White Shul in Far Rockaway. He spoke of the importance of chessed and the power of chessed in our lives. Rabbi Feiner inspired the girls with stories and divrei Chazal, all to emphasize that chessed is a defining feature of a frum Jew. Avrohom Avinu was the pillar of chessed. It was his life, his world. Our responsibility is to learn from his example and from the example of Pinchas in the Torah, who acted solely for the benefit of others. We too should strive to reach out beyond our personal needs, and by enhancing the lives of others, our lives will truly be enhanced. Rabbi Feiner imparted that the simplest form of chessed is tzedakah, giving money to people in need. But tzedakah has its limitations. It is chiefly money, mainly for poor people, and for the living. Gemilas chessed, on the other hand, goes far beyond that. It is not only money of course. And it is for anyone, no matter his financial station, and it is both for the living and the non-living. An example of that would be work that one does for the chevrah kadisha, assisting in the burial prepa-
ration of a deceased person. This perspective helped portray chessed as the highest level of caring for others. The event culminated with a humorous video the Shevach Chessed heads produced themselves, portraying the true story of a girl who was redt her bashert as a result of her doing chessed. In addition, every girl received a phone wallet imprinted with the chessed theme as a reminder to always do chessed. The chessed heads then performed an original chessed song which helped generate a positive energy in the room for the chessed program, inspiring all present to do chessed for others.
To quote the Shevach administration, “That is one of the main goals of Shevach High School; to create young ladies who work on their selfgrowth, but at the same time reach beyond their comfort zone to address the needs of others.” Rabbi Feiner and the Chessed heads gave meaning to that goal, and now the students are ready to run with it. The students will choose what area of chessed they would like to commit to and do that chessed every week for the entire year. Shevach girls have frequently relayed how chessed becomes a part of their lives forever, even when they leave the confines of Shevach High School.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Upcoming: Annual Gesher Community Carnival
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he Gesher early Childhood Center is pleased to once again host a free carnival for the community. Last year over 300 participants enjoyed the various attractions and carnival booths. This year’s carnival will feature an exotic bird show, a bounce house, face painting, an exciting photo booth, and choices of craft projects. The carnival allows Gesher to thank the community for its strong support, propelling Gesher to its most successful year to-date. With over 80 students in its five classes, Gesher has become a much desired option for many families in our neighborhood. Hosting the event in its home facility allows the community an opportunity to glimpse into the high quality program that Gesher is known for providing. As Gesher is relatively new to the community, and appeals to a wide range of parents, it is important to generate more direct familiarity. The carnival will take place on Sunday, November 12th, from 10 AM until 12 PM, at Gesher, 650 Broadway in Cedarhurst. Gesher is known for its multisensory approach to learning, combining
various resources to help the learning process and reinforce the material. The different grades recently emphasized the lessons of the parsha using a variety of projects and methods. One class constructed a tent like Avraham’s and dramatized greeting and serving guests. Additionally, they invited another class to their class-
room to emulate Avraham inviting guests to his home. The nursery class turned their kitchen center into Avraham and Sarah’s tent which included candles, challah, and a cloud that they created! They also baked challah and are conducting an experiment on how long bread really stays fresh because Sarah
Imeinu’s challah always stayed fresh. The Pre1A classes finished their unit on fall with a scavenger hunt. They had a blast finding all different color leaves, pinecones, acorns, twigs, etc. Each student had their own sheet to check off and had a blast finding all the different fall objects!
“Chesed Day” Program at Yeshiva of Central Queens By Esti Goldberg and Hadassah Jaffe, grade 6
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n Wednesday, October 25, the YCQ JHS began their Chesed Program. Several of the classes visited local nursing homes, one seventh grade girls class helped prepare at the Masbia soup kitchen in Forest Hills, and another helped label clothing at Bobbie’s Place, a children’s store in Brooklyn where all of the brand new merchandise is free to families in need. The eighth grade boys spent the morning with students from HASC, and back at YCQ the seventh grade boys hosted students from OHEL, Bais Ezra. When one of the sixth grade girls’ classes arrived at the Cliffside Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, they were greeted by many residents. They played a game together where they had to find someone with a specific topic. There was a women who asked the questions allowing the students to get to know her. One
of the men had over twenty nieces and nephews that he was so proud of, and, most exciting, the girls and their teachers got to celebrate and sing to a woman celebrating her 101st birthday. There was also a man who loved to perform for people. Even
though almost all of the people were in wheelchairs, they were happy and there was a feeling of calm in the nursing home. One very special man loves to dance. When the music was on, he did not let being in a wheelchair or only being able to use
one leg stop him from doing what he loves. This was a real inspiration to the girls. It is so nice that the JHS students at YCQ have this chance to do such a special mitzvah and help others feel good.
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Around the Community
The Shabbat Project at HANC
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he halls of HANC’s Samuel and Elizabeth Bass Golding Elementary School were alive with the sound of zemirot this past week. In anticipation of the Third Annual Gila Reinstein Shabbos Project, the students and staff busily prepared for a very special Shabbat. They participated in a myriad of events all week long and created magnificent projects to enhance their families’ Shabbat. In kindergarten, the students decorated Lucite trays on which they could place their Shabbat candles. The students in first grade baked chocolate cake as a tasty erev Shabbat treat. The second grade students focused on the conclusion of Shabbat by making beautiful havdalah sets to enhance their families’ havdalah ceremonies. The third and fourth grade students learned wonderful zemirot and after spending the week perfecting their singing, they participated in a spirited zemirot Sing-Off. Mazal tov to Rabbi Mordechai Harris and his energetic fourth grade boys, who were chosen as the winners. In addition to hearing amazing singing, the hallways were also filled with enticing Shabbat scents. The children in fifth and sixth grade participated in a Kugel Cook-Off where each class prepared and baked a delicious kugel. While it was a difficult decision for the judges to pick between the carrot, noodle or potato kugels, Rabbi Gary Hoffman’s sixth grade boys were declared the winners.
Besides all of this excitement, the students in kindergarten through second grade received a special treat. To get in the mood for Shabbat, they had a wonderful time dancing and singing to Shabbat songs and zemirot. The children danced their hearts out, circling around the auditorium with their friends and teachers. A good time was had by all! The highlight of the week was on Wednesday night. In the early evening, the auditorium was filled with mothers, grandmothers and girls who came to prepare challah for Shabbat. Rebbetzin Katie Lichter of
dough and bake the challot to perfection. Tremendous hakarat hatov to the sixth grade girls and the faculty members who prepared over 200
the Great Neck Synagogue was our guest. She explained the importance of challah and how the ingredients of this bread symbolize all of the factors that make our lives so special. She then taught them how to braid the
pounds of dough before this event. Following this amazing Challah Baking event, the entire HANC community came together to sing and dance to the music of our exceptional and beloved music teacher, Rab-
bi Mordechai Shapiro. To hear his beautiful voice and see the children joyfully singing along was a sight to behold. The ruach and excitement was seen on the children’s faces as well as those of their parents and siblings. For an entire hour, Rabbi Shapiro stood on the bima of the Young Israel of West Hempstead and sang while everyone in attendance glowed with joy and unity during this tremendous pre-Shabbat event. It was truly a night the children and their families will never forget. The entire week of Shabbat preparation and activities were dedicated in the memory of Gila Reinstein. Mrs. Reinstein was a strong supporter of HANC as a parent and worked tirelessly to assist the PTA in enhancing the education and extracurricular experiences of all the students. Since she loved Shabbat so much, HANC has dedicated this Shabbos Project in her memory for the past three years. May her memory be a blessing.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
The Shabbos Project at HANC HS
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ANC High School was pulsating with excitement and exhilaration as we celebrated our first chagiga of the year. The chagiga was held in honor of the worldwide Shabbos Project. HANC High School embraced the Project and its spirit permeated the air throughout the week, culminating with the high energy, awesome chagiga. The day was launched with inspiring divrei Torah from the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Jeffrey Lichtman. Mr. Lichtman spoke about the sanctity of Shabbos and also paid
tribute to Rebbitzen Goldie Fendel in whose memory this year’s Shabbos Project at HANC has been dedicated. The activities included a chagigah, music by our very own Mr. Dovid Klaver and renowned singer
Sister Soldier at HALB
Pinny Schachter, dancing, a tisch led by Rabbi Yisroel Weingot, Boys’ Chorus debut, Cholent Cook-off, and a fantastic Challah Bake. The Challah Bake was sponsored in memory of Tziporah bat Gittle V’Yaakov Ziv.
Eat the Rainbow
I H
ALB’S Middle School Girl’s Division recently participated in a “Sister Soldier” program, focusing on the most contemporary and relative aspects of bullying and relational aggression. Trish Ottaviano, author of the book Girl World: How to Ditch the Drama and Find Your Inner Amazing, told her personal story of how she was bullied in Middle School and how she overcame the challenges she faced. Students took part in interactive activities that gave them the opportunity to open up to their peers, work on rela-
tionships, and make positive changes in their daily school experiences. In the language of empowerment, kindness, acceptance, and self-love, under the auspices of our Director of Guidance, Mrs. Carly Namdar, HALB’s Middle School has begun a dialogue centered around how we see ourselves and relate to each other. This is a discussion that we hope to continue to explore in our Life Skills classes this year, as we embark on an intensive study of friendship, conflict resolution and social media.
Thank you to Rabbi Daniel Mezei, Director of Student Life, and to his team, Rabbi Aharon Friedler, Rav Yitz, and Ms. Nomi Bensoussan for organizing the outstanding programming.
n conjunction with Parshat Noach, the Shulamith Women’s Organization (SWO) launched an “Eat the Rainbow” campaign. For one week, students were challenged to bring in a fruit or vegetable each day of the week that matched the color designated to that day. At the end of the week, the students received either a rainbow molded cup with straw or a multicolored Pom Pom keychain as a prize. This school-wide initiative was introduced by distributing fruit platters to many classes along with color-coded charts for the students to record their colorful healthy choices. The girls were so excited to complete their checklists, which motivated them to bring in healthy snacks. Many students accompanied their parents to the supermarket over the weekend to choose which fruits and
vegetables they would bring for the various colors. “‘Eat the Rainbow’ is a fun and engaging way to bring the parsha to life and encourage healthy eating of a variety of rainbow colors in Shulamith and beyond,” said S.W.O. Co - Presidents Ilana Buchbinder and Bini Dachs. We were amazed by the creativity of foods that the girls brought to school. Some examples of what they chose were strawberries, watermelon, carrots, clementines, cantaloupe, mandarin oranges, corn, mango, pineapples, honeydew, cucumbers, blueberries, green and purple grapes, and peppers and apples in all colors of the rainbow! The “Eat the Rainbow” initiative taught our students that eating healthy snacks can be refreshing, rewarding and, of course, colorful!
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Around the Community
Rabbi Paysach Krohn spoke at this year’s inaugural Motzei Shabbos learning program in Mesivta Shaarei Chaim in Far Rockaway
DRS Open House
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his past Sunday, the DRS Yeshiva High School for Boys was filled to capacity at the school’s annual Open House. DRS hosted over 200 prospective students and their parents at their annual Open House. The Open House, which takes place in DRS’s beautiful state-of-the-art building, provided its attendees with an informative, exciting, and enjoyable program which allows those interested in the school to get a real sense of what DRS is all about. Upon entering the building, every attendee was warmly greeted by DRS Menahel, Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky, faculty members, and current DRS students. The program moved to DRS’s spacious Beit Medrash during which Rabbi Kaminetsky and DRS General Studies Principal Dr. Hillel Broder addressed the enormous crowd, enlightening them about DRS’s strong and challenging curriculum in both limudei kodesh and limudei chol. Rabbi Kaminetsky stressed that the hallmark of the school is the “personal care, warmth, and attention provided for each individual student.” More importantly, DRS prides itself on the “achdut” between classmates, who
come to DRS from over 20 different elementary schools and several different neighborhoods, including Queens,
Brooklyn, West Hempstead, the Five Towns, and Great Neck. Following Rabbi Kaminetsky’s remarks, students headed off to the extracurricular student fair in DRS’s incredible gymnasium, where they received a taste of all the programs that DRS has to offer, including a presentation from the cooking and karate club, College Bowl competition, sports teams, Shabbatonim and trips, and much more. At the same time, parents got a chance to hear from DRS faculty members in the science, math, English, and social studies departments regarding the incredible range of courses offered at DRS. DRS boasts a large curriculum including 14 AP
courses, and the opportunity to be involved in several research opportunities in both science and social Studies. Parents also got a chance to ask questions to a panel of five DRS students in order to get their view of how incredible DRS is. Other sessions included an exploration into the limudei kodesh curriculum, a glimpse into the schools’ extracurricular offerings, and smaller breakout sessions where parents were able to “meet the administration” in an intimate setting and field their questions to be Rabbi Kaminetsky and Dr. Broder. DRS thanks all those who came to visit the Open House and looks forward to meeting them again in the future.
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Around the Community
Live From Israel!
N
o Passport Required for Exciting New YOSS Program The 6th grade talmidim at Yeshiva of South Shore are fastening their classroom seatbelts for an exciting new learning program that just debuted at YOSS. The Eretz Chemda Distance Learning Program is an interactive course that teaches the special mitzvos of Eretz Yisrael in an engaging way while strengthening students’ connection to Eretz Yisrael and Am Yisrael. Taught by teachers live from Yerushalayim through interactive video technology, including video conferencing and smartboard telecommunications, this year-long program is informative, inspiring and engaging. Each student received a workbook which serves as the basis for the curriculum, and the YOSS shiur rebbi acts as moderator to elicit participation and expand upon the lessons.
Central Open House
The first lesson was all about kedushas Eretz Yisrael: the love the Ribbono Shel Olam has towards it, and the integral role that reverence plays in many of the mitzvos that we perform in the diaspora. Rabbi Simcha Poupko, an expert in Toras Eretz Yisrael and a master educator, gave the first lesson through interactive technology. He brought the children all across the Holy Land, explaining the myriad aspects of the love, lore and halachic matters of Eretz Yisrael. Rabbi Zev Davidowitz, Menahel HaMechina, said, “We are excited to add Eretz Chemda to our 6th grade curriculum. From the very first day, the talmidim were engaged and actively participating in Rabbi Poupko’s lesson. We look forward to the opportunity to let them experience Eretz Yisrael in a completely new way!”
C
entral welcomed hundreds of prospective students and parents to its Open House on Sunday. The crowd streamed into the building to the greetings of excited student ambassadors and music. After a brief reception and breakfast, the program opened with a presentation of Central’s core values and attributes. Freshmen Shira Schwartz and Michal Abraham reflected on their time at Central thus far, Head of School Mrs. CB Neugroschl highlighted Central’s focus on Commitment, Community, and Curiosity, and a brief video highlighted those same themes through faculty and student voices. Senior Liat Cohen also shared her thoughts on four years at Central: “I have been encouraged to be the best version of myself. To ask my questions. To be open to a new perspective. To reach out to someone or something new. To dive into my
spiritual self. And all this while being supported and celebrated by my Central family.” At the conclusion of the opening program, students and parents were invited to sample a taste of the Central academic experience by listening to faculty presentations from an array of departments. The program concluded with a student life performance that showcased Central’s dance, choir, and poetry slam teams, and a curriculum fair that allowed students to browse the school’s diverse course offerings and meet the faculty. Director of Admissions Mrs. Aliza Gewirtz reflected on the morning: “Open House is a celebration of our students, faculty and school community. We are so proud to share that with our prospective students and families.”
Annual Young Israel of Long Beach Dinner
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he 57th annual dinner of the Young Israel of Long Beach will be taking place on Wednesday evening, November 8, 2017 at the Kneseth Israel, Far Rockaway, NY. The evening will honor three couples who belong to the “next generation” of our synagogue. We honor them because of the initiatives they have displayed and their representation of the type of families that we would like to join our congregation: Elliot & Frada Pasik, Yechezkel & Michele Brucker and their children Yigdal & Yocheved and Michael & Rebecca Lazar together with several other newly affiliated families represent the beginning of a nucleus that will iy”H
attract others to seek out Long Beach as a place to raise their families. Our Young Israel is a precious gift, “a matanah tov,a” which enhances and enriches our lives and impacts positively on the religious wellbeing of the entire community. There are multi-faceted programs and activities sponsored by the YILB which are designed to satisfy the diverse needs of its membership. These activities include the daily Willem Wolf Daf Yomi shiur, shiurim, scholars-in-residence, concerts, Shabbos dinners, summer barbeque and carnival, and appropriate celebrations for every yom tov and religious occasion. We take note of our fledgling Lev Avos
and Oneg youth programs. The YILB supports a myriad of worthy causes and looks with pride at the good work of our Robert Chiger Scholarship fund and general charity fund. More fundamentally the YILB emphasizes a core mission of being a Mikdash Me’at for all – a place of introspection, tranquility where one can come to daven and connect to the Ribbono Shel Olam. Over the past several years the YILB has experienced significant changes which have impacted upon our treasured bastion of Torah, tefillah & chessed. The YILB is being proactive, seeking to maintain its vitality while exposing Long Beach as a place to Live, Learn & Grow to the world at
large. We have introduced the hehilla concept which has engendered a more unified community – working together for common goals. The introduction of several assistant rabbis has energized our congregation with youthful exuberance and diversity of talent and Torah scholarship. But most importantly we are starting to see a new cohort of individuals who are demonstrating a serious interest in our shul and gradually displaying their leadership talents. Dovid Fohrman serve as the dinner chairman, and Malka Fishman leads an enthusiastic dinner committee which has done an extraordinary job in ensuring the success of this event.
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Around the Community
Finding Your Way with WayFind
W
ayFind hosted a first of its kind event this past Sunday night. Despite the rain, the room was filled to capacity, with very limited standing room. The topic of the evening was Future Tech Careers for the Frum Community. The program began with opening remarks from Natasha Srulowitz, Co-Founder of WayFind, a career and education services company. WayFind’s mission is to help young people in the frum community choose a profession that best suits their strengths, interests and needs and educate them about careers across all sectors so they are positioned well for future financial and personal success. Sunday night’s focus was on the technology sector. The audience got the opportunity to hear from a highly successful tech entrepreneur, Carl Valberg, Co-Founder and CEO of InVision. Many of the smartest companies in the world, including Twitter, Netflix, Hubspot and Amazon, use InVision to power their product design process from start to finish. He talked about what he looks for in employees, what he expects from them, and how the opportunities are endless. Mordy Golding, Director of Content at LinkedIn, and Avi Singer, CEO and Founder of showd.me, both members of the Five Towns community, moderated a panel discussion with seasoned frum professionals. The panel included Chaim Fried, Founder and CEO of OWAL, Sruli Derdik, Principal Engineer of Platform Services at Adobe Systems, Rachel Geisler, Software Engineer at Google, and Elisheva Cohen, Technology Analyst at a large financial services company. The audience observed a productive and stimulating discussion about the future in technology. They learned about in-demand and high-paying jobs, what they are about, and how conducive many of these jobs are to the frum lifestyle when it comes to work-life balance, benefits and flexibility. All the panelists and moderators lingered after the program, talking to people individually. We are very fortunate to have members of our community care so much about the next generation. WayFind also discussed a new
Avi Singer, Rabbi Harry Rozenberg, Chaim Fried, Mordy Goldberg, Sruli Derdik, Natasha Srulowitz, Adele Dubin, Rachel Geisler, and Elisheva Cohen
venture they have forged with General Assembly, an industry leader in preparing people for technology careers. They talked about three types of technology bootcamps in programming, design and data analytics – 12-week courses with separate classes for men and women. The first bootcamp in Full Stack Web Development is scheduled to start at the end of January. Rabbi Harry Rozenberg was present to discuss the ability to use these bootcamp credits towards an expedited college degree. Rabbi Harry is the WayFind College Advisor and Co-founder and President of Theological Research Institute (TRIO), a program that helps students leverage yeshiva and other credits to complete a SUNY college degree. The large turnout on a rainy Sunday night demonstrated the interest in exploring tech careers and that is very encouraging. “We are excited that people are taking the initiative, that they are motivated to learn and position themselves well for the future. We hope to continue to support our community and provide the resources needed to chart their paths to success. In addition to working one-on-one with individuals on their own personal career course, WayFind plans to offer more panel discussions and informational sessions and are excited to launch the technology bootcamps in early 2018,” commented Adele Dubin, Co-Founder of WayFind. For more information, please visit www.wayfindcareers.com or call 516-253-1147.
Torah and Ice Cream
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almidim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah enjoyed freshly-scooped ice cream cones and Slurpees courtesy of the YDT Women’s League. The sweet treats helped launch this year’s incentivized Shnayim Mikra
V’Echad Targum program. The boys are encouraged to learn part of the parsha each Shabbos (the length depends on the age) according to halacha – the pasuk twice followed by the Targum.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
CIJE-Tech Students Inspired by Technion Dean Shulamit Levenberg
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his past Wednesday, the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (www.thecije.org), together with the American Technion Society, hosted an enlightening evening with Dr. Shulamit Levenberg, Dean of the Biomedical Engineering Faculty of the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology. More than 100 young women, who participate in the CIJE-Tech Engineering Programs at their high schools, filled the HALB
Beit Midrash and were truly astounded by what they learned that evening. Dr. Levenberg discussed her research, which combines life sciences and medicine with numerous engineering disciplines to advance science in new ways. She spoke about new technologies that can help improve the lives of people suffering from various diseases and injuries. Like CIJE’s emphasis on problem solving and innovation, Prof. Levenberg ex-
plained that the Technion also uses this approach in an interdisciplinary manner. Devorah Feldman, YUHSG student, commented, “Dr. Levenberg is truly a role model not only to me but to all of Klal Yisroel.” On a personal level, Dr. Levenberg inspired the girls to aim high and not to let anything stand in their way on the road to success. Her advice to the young women in the audience was to work hard and to gain the self-confidence to pursue their interests. Dr. Levenberg encouraged those present to find their passion and not to hesitate to go after it. “People around you will respect your decisions and your perseverance, and you will have a positive impact on the world around
you,” she said. Following the conclusion of the CIJE Technion event, Elana Fatir, YUHSG, commented, “Growing up I have always had an interest in biology and engineering, but I lacked the knowledge needed in how to combine these areas together with a role as wife and mother. After hearing Dr. Levenberg, I realize that I can be open to a whole world of opportunity. I plan to continue to gain knowledge and the self-confidence to follow my dreams. I truly believe that it is possible for a young Jewish woman to accomplish anything in a world filled with discoveries and opportunities.”
organization. “Recently, NCSY was on the ground in Houston on a Chessed Mission. And quite frankly, NCSY is always on the ground making a difference in Jewish communities around the globe,” said Moishe Bane, President of the Orthodox Union. “As we continue to reach more and more teens through our innovative programing, we are proud to acknowledge all of our supporters and are especially grateful to our honorees, all of whom help to inspire our Jewish teens to develop a positive Jewish identity and embrace Torah as they journey into adulthood.” The NCSY gala will take place immediately following the 23rd annual Ben Zakkai Scholarship Reception honoring the newest members inducted into the Ben Zakkai Honor Society: Freda Greenbaum of Bal
Harbour, FL; Dr. Allan Jacob of Miami Beach, FL; and Rabbi Ethan Katz of Bergenfield, NJ. In addition, Dvorah and Ben Gasner, who reside in Israel, will also be recognized at the event prior to the OU Israel Center’s Ben Zakkai Honor Society Induction Ceremony. “For over 63 years, NCSY has been part of the national fabric of American Jewish life,” said Avi Katz, Chairman of NCSY. “Our gala on November 12th is an opportunity to ensure that Jewish teens today benefit from this powerful Jewish movement.” To reserve tickets or journal ads for the NCSY Dinner, Amy Mauskopf, amy@ncsy.org, 212-6138193.
The Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (CIJE) aims to enhance and enrich the quality of education at Jewish schools throughout the United States. CIJE believes that Jewish day school graduates must be prepared to succeed in an ever-changing global society. CIJE seeks to upgrade the technology and programs available to Jewish day schools and Yeshivot so that the education these schools provide is world-class. CIJE programs are implemented in 18 states. More than 5,200 students participate in CIJE-Tech Middle and High School Engineering programs. For additional information, please visit www. thecije.org or contact Judy Lebovits at 212-757-1500.
Inaugural NCSY Gala
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CSY, the global organization that helps Jewish teens build a strong connection to their Jewish roots through inspiration and leadership skills, will hold its NCSY Gala on Sunday, November 12 at 6:00 p.m. at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd., Garden City, NY. The gala event celebrates the tremendous growth of NCSY across the country, which has connected with more than 24,000 Jewish teens. In addition to local, national and regional programs throughout the school year, NCSY offers more than 17 different summer programs in the U.S. and abroad, bringing upwards of 1500 teens on these programs each year. Honorees include Jeffrey and Sharona Weinberg of Woodmere, NY; Rabbi Moshe and Serena Beno-
vitz of Ramat Beit Shemesh, Israel; and Benyamin and Esti Kaminetzky of Teaneck, NJ. The program will also feature a special Ben Zakkai Memorial Tribute to the late Joseph and Julia Macy, for their stalwart support of the New England chapter of NCSY. The efforts and support of this year’s honorees have made an impact on Jewish teens across the globe. Rabbi Moshe Benovitz has been the Director of the NCSY Kollel summer program for more than 18 years in Israel. He has learned with thousands of young men over the years at Yeshivat Reishit where he currently teaches, in addition to his senior role as Managing Director of NCSY. Both the Kaminetzky and Weinberg families have sent their children to various NCSY summer programs, and are generous supporters of the
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Around the Community
SKA Goes to AIPAC Teen Summit BYAM & the Environment
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n conjunction with learning about the environment, the students at Bais Yaakov Ateres Miriam have started a recycling program. Each class decorated a recycling pail and the girls are very busy
L-R: Mrs. Tamar Bindiger, Shifra Cohen, Aliyah Tanami and Jaclyn Korman
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dvocating for the State of Israel is a high priority for the students of the Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls. Throughout the school year, SKA’s Israel Action Committee raises funds for organizations assisting Israeli soldiers and other charities, invites exceptional speakers including IDF veterans, and runs student leadership training sessions so that SKA students can become effective advocates for Israel. Accompanied by faculty member Mrs. Tamar Bindiger, SKA students Shifra Cohen, Jaclyn Korman and Aliyah Tanami attended AIPAC’s
Schusterman’s Advocacy Institute High School Summit in Washington, D. C., on Sunday, October 29 through Tuesday, October 31. With four hundred students from around the country, Shifra, Jaclyn and Aliyah attended training sessions on lobbying, Israel and the media, and other important topics relevant to U.S.-Israel relations. Attending the summit was a wonderful opportunity for the SKA students to become even more educated about the challenges of BDS and the importance of advocating for Israel on and beyond their school campus.
Shalhevet Scholars Get Set to Excel
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ach year Midreshet Shalhevet selects academic scholars from its applicants to participate in the Shalhevet Scholar’s program. This program brings together a diverse group of highly talented students from across all incoming freshmen, each with a record of outstanding academic success and chessed. Shalhevet Scholars receive a scholarship, a choice of an iPad or a Chromebook, and are afforded the opportunity to participate in a weekly STEM enrichment program run by science teacher Mr. Gerald Bass. The qualifications to be selected to participate in the Shalhevet Scholar’s program are rigorous.
These truly are bright flames at Midreshet Shalhevet. Mazal tov to the incoming class of Shalhevet Scholars: Elisheva Conway of Queens (Bnos Malka), Ayala Terebelo of Brooklyn (Shulamith of Brooklyn), Leah Cohen of Far Rockaway (TAG), Ayala Feder of Far Rockaway (BBY), and Emily Weintraub of Brooklyn (Shulamith of Brooklyn). Please join Midreshet Shalhevet at our Open House, this Sunday, November 5 at 12:00 pm to find out all that MSH stands for and to join our family! To enter the raffle for a smartwatch, pre-register at: midreshetshalhevet.org.
filling up their pails with recycling items. After filling up their pail ten times, the class will take a trip to the park to enjoy Hashem’s nature that they are helping preserve.
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Around the Community
A Milestone for Shulamith Fourth Graders
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ast week, the fourth grade students of Shulamith School for Girls reached a momentous milestone in their lives as they each received their first Navi, Sefer Yehoshua. To begin the celebration, Mrs. Joyce Yarmak, principal of the Lower Division, spoke to the girls about the qualities that are truly important in a leader, such as the courage to stand up for what is right even in difficult situations. The enthusiastic girls played Eretz Yisrael Bingo, learned a song about Yehoshua, and devoured delicious cookies with the map of Israel.
Of course, the divrei Torah, singing, and breakfast treats were all wonderful, but the highlight of the event was when Mrs. Yarmak and
Morah Mindy Futersak called upon each talmidah to receive her Navi. As they begin to delve into the study of Navi, we at Shulamith are certain
that each of our precious talmidot will continue to give their parents and teachers much nachat.
Protecting our Children in the Digital Age
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ur students are growing up in an age of unprecedented available information which not only enters their living rooms at home, but is available in their hands in the form of the ubiquitous mobile phone with which many parents equip their children from a tender age.
Shulamith School for Girls recently hosted Rabbi Norman Lowenthal, LCSW, renowned lecturer on internet safety, social worker and educator, who presents widely on the subject of parenting in the digital age. The very well-attended evening was coordinated by Ms. Eliana Kadish, school social worker, and was entitled, “Do you re-
ally know what your kids are doing? Parenting strategies in the internet era.” The event received excellent reviews from parents regarding the engaging content and useful information shared. Rabbi Lowenthal also presented different programs to the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th graders separately, varying his presentations to make them different, relevant and age-appropriate to each audience. He asked students if they would be more watchful of their (future) children than their parents are of them. A surprisingly large number of students said they would be inclined to set more limits on their own children than their parents set for them. An interesting observation made in the parent lecture was that this is the first time in recorded history that almost across the boards children know more about something than their parents. The only other era of which that can be said is when children of immigrant parents knew more of the language of the adopted
country than the parents did. But that affected a limited population, and in the age of the internet, the children’s superior knowledge of technology is almost universal. Rabbi Lowenthal emphasized that whatever one puts on the internet is going to be “Public and Permanent” and tremendous caution must be used. Parents were advised to “Postpone and Protect” as a strategy to be used when confronting children’s desire for smartphones at every younger ages. Children were taught about “eyeball” friends, defined as people you know and have actually seen, in the flesh, eyeball to eyeball. Having 500 “friends” on social media doesn’t mean these people are one’s real friends! Students and parents walked away with a great deal of food for thought, as well as concrete ideas and means for trying to assure personal safety in a very challenging time. We hope to host additional parenting programs as the year progresses.
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Passover 2018
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Rambam Shabbaton: Emphasis on Leadership
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his past Shabbos, Parshas Lech Lecha, marked Rambam Mesivta’s Annual Shabbaton at Camp Seneca Lake. As befits the parsha that focuses on Avraham’s emergence as the quintessential leader, the weekend’s festivities focused on developing leadership skills. The freshmen class, represented by over a dozen elementary schools, went up a day early with Senior Advisors and had the whole camp to themselves. They busied themselves with swimming, softball, football, and a midnight game of dodgeball: freshmen vs. seniors (and Mr. Goldman). They also had two sessions, run by Mr. Hillel Goldman, Rambam’s Associate Principal, that focused on perspective and leadership. On Friday, the rest of the school arrived, and Rambam’s 5th Annual Flagfootball Tournament, run by the seniors, was in full effect. The game rooms were also packed, as were the hockey rinks, basketball courts, soccer fields, and tennis courts. Following the first rounds of play, the school gathered for a picture before going to an inspiring Kabbalat Shabbat led by senior Effie Klein and The Harmonides, fea-
turing Captain Eli Deutsch and Associate Captain Noam Fruchter. Mr. Goldman then spoke about the parsha and the subject of leadership. Dinner was a delicious affair and the seniors, led by Masmid/Varsity Captain of Basketball, Sam Sicklick, sang beautiful zemirot. The singing didn’t end until almost every student, rebbe, and administrator was on a chair singing! Rabbi Yaacov Weisenberg, Rambam Rebbe, also shared words of Torah. Following dinner, Rabbi Yossi Ziskind invited everyone to a tisch and shared words of Torah along with more singing and late night cholent. The next day saw more singing and words of Torah.
Rabbi Yotav Eliach, Rambam’s principal, discussed the concept of leadership trough the paradigm of people who have inspired him with their desire to lead but not look for the spotlight. After another delectable meal, Rabbi Zev Meir Friedman, Rambam’s Rosh Mesivta, learned with Rambam’s Entrepreneur Academy about the nature of proof itself and the role it plays in areas of emunah and bitachon. Rabbi Eliach then gave an optional shiur about his mother, Dr. Yaffa Eliach, z”l, as it was her first yahrzeit. He shared the leadership role she took in changing the world’s perception of Judaism as she brought to the fore what
Jews were like prior to the Holocaust. “The Nazis had a posthumous victory,” Rabbi Eliach said, “as they killed the Jews a second time by forcing the world to only see them as skeletons.” His mother, he explained, showed what a rich life they had before the advent of the War. Rabbi Friedman also led a shiur for the whole school on the subject of lashon hara. He emphasized that lashon hara kills three people: “The person speaking, the person listening, and the person it is about.” He said that real leadership is sticking up for those in need and stopping those who share words that will cause strife. As Shabbos ebbed away, Rabbi Avi Haar,
Assistant Principal of Rambam, offered some thoughts on leadership and the dangers of connecting too much with electronic devices to the detriment of connecting with meaningful relations. Rabbi Aryeh Young then shared an inspiring story about a young boy who became the leader of his own life and recommended that the audience follow suit. After a meaningful havdalah, the Flagfootball Tournament continued with Team Korman winning it all. That tournament was followed by the 8th Annual JV Quest for the Cup with JV Hockey defeating JV Basketball in soccer. More sports and swimming took place before the whole school returned to the dining room for pizza and ice cream and rocking music from Rambam Rebbe Rabbi Ari Boiangiu. The night was capped off by a senior bonfire down by the lake and the school’s 5th Annual Homerun Derby which ended at 4:00AM with sophomore Zeke Rothbort winning the Derby and senior Akiva Schuck winning the Gold Glove Award. It was truly a meaningful and rewarding weekend to a year that is already off to a great start.
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Around the Community PHOTOS BY YK IMAGES
Generations Celebrate Hascholas Gemara at Yeshiva Darchei Torah
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n a sunny Sunday morning, the fifth grade talmidim were joined by their fathers, grandfathers and, in some cases, great-grandfathers, to cele-
Rav Chaim Yehoshua Hoberman
brate their first foray into Gemara learning. Two consecutive events were held and each was addressed by grandfathers of talmidim
Rav Zevi Trenk
Rabbi Avrohom Halpern
Mr. Henry Shachar
Dr. Gerald Hollander
Rav Dovid Morgenstern, menahel of the Upper Elementary School
Agudath Israel of America: Vote No on NYS Constitutional Convention
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n Election Day, November 7, 2017, New Yorkers will be asked to vote on a proposed Constitutional Convention. Agudath Israel of America urges its constituents to vote “no.” It is not in our community’s interest to have a Constitutional Convention, which would open up New York State’s Constitution to major changes. We are deeply concerned
that a Constitutional Convention could seriously jeopardize many of the existing protections that exist in the current State Constitution, and make major changes in state law that could adversely affect our community. To give just a few examples: • A Constitutional Convention could lead to reducing, or even ending, the ability of the state to provide significant assistance and services
to nonpublic schools, including religious schools. It could also end funding for other religious institutions such as shuls, even for such basic issues as security protection. • A Constitutional Convention could lead to the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and other end of life policies that are contrary to halacha. • A Constitutional Convention
could lead to a further decline in the moral climate in which we live, as many “progressives” are advocating. We therefore urge all caring, thinking people to vote “no” on November 7, 2017 on the question of whether New York should have a Constitutional Convention.
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Hot Real Estate Commodity in Israel Lures NY-NJ Buyers at Record Pace
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ue to the overwhelming interest in the posh Ramat Givat Zeev residential project from buyers in the metropolitan New YorkNew Jersey area, Chish Nofei Israel, the company which is building the real estate venture, located on the outskirts of Jerusalem, is returning with two special sales events on November 9 in Teaneck and November 12 in midtown Manhattan. During the past year, dozens of young couples and families from the metro region have purchased a variety of palatial homes and impeccably designed apartments at Ramat Givat Zeev. Because of the unprecedented interest in this unique project, when Ramat Givat Zeev’s first residents move into the beautiful town in mid-January, they will discover that the price of their property will have
risen in dramatic fashion. The rising value of these properties can be directly traced to the fact that only a few dozen homes and apartments within the 350 plus unit complex remain to be sold. Ramat Givat Zeev’s word-ofmouth allure is based on the “facts on the ground.” The project is being built with high-end standards, mimicking the lifestyle that its buyers have been used to in the USA. It will accentuate the discerning religious and cultural quality of life standards found in places such as Teaneck, Five Towns, Brooklyn and Queens, New York. Ramat Givat Zeev will feature synagogues, mikvaot and quality schools, as well as a country club with a pool and gym, tennis and basketball courts, green parks and a shopping center. Special prices for the remaining
Ramat Givat Zeev properties will be featured at the special sales events. “This is once in a lifetime opportunity to ‘have it all,’ living in the lap of luxury amidst the pastoral beauty of the Jerusalem hills. It’s not by accident that many buyers from the Teaneck area have made their Aliyah dreams come true in a unique setting,” said a Chish
Nofei Israel sales representative. The next Ramat Givat Zeev sales events will take place on Thursday, November 9, from 5PM-11PM at Congregation Keter Torah, 600 Roemer Ave. in Teaneck, New Jersey, and on Sunday, November 12 from 11AM7PM at the Marriott Marquis Hotel, 1535 Broadway in Manhattan.
Rep. Rice Leads Bipartisan Coalition Urging Administration to Seek Justice for American Victims of Terrorism in Israel
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his week, U.S. Representative Kathleen Rice led 67 House Democrats and Republicans in calling on the U.S. Solicitor General to respond to the Supreme Court’s request for a brief expressing the Trump administration’s views in Sokolow v. Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), et al., a case involving American victims of terrorism abroad who sought civil redress from the PLO and Palestinian Authority (PA) under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1992 (ATA), which gave American victims of terrorism the right to sue perpetrators for attacks that occur anywhere in the world. The lead plaintiff in the case, Mark Sokolow, is a resident of Cedar-
hurst in Rep. Rice’s district who was injured, along with his wife and daughters, in a suicide bombing in Jerusalem in January 2002. The Sokolows and their fellow plaintiffs joined together in 2004 to sue the PLO and PA for their role in the January 2002 attacks and several other bombings and shootings in Israel in the early 2000s that killed and maimed hundreds of civilians. Many of the PLO and PA “security officers” involved in planning and executing these attacks have been tried, convicted and sentenced to multiple life sentences, but continue to draw generous PLO and PA salaries while in prison. In 2015, a unanimous jury in the
Fall back! Time to move your clocks back one hour
Southern District of New York found the PLO and PA liable for the attacks and awarded compensation to the plaintiffs. In August 2016, the Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan overturned the ruling and dismissed the suit on the grounds that U.S. federal courts lack jurisdiction over terrorist attacks abroad. The plaintiffs asked the Supreme Court to review and overturn the Appeals Court’s verdict, and several amicus briefs have been filed in support of the terror victims, including a brief filed by the U.S. House of Representatives and a brief filed by a bipartisan group of 23 U.S. Senators. The Supreme Court has requested the Trump administration’s views on the case, but the Solicitor General has yet to respond to that request. In a letter sent this week, Rep. Rice led 34 Republicans and 32 Democrats in urging the Solicitor General to expeditiously respond to the request so that the Court can move forward and review the case. The letter was co-led by Rep. Christopher Smith (R-NJ), who also represents a plaintiff in the case. In their letter to Solicitor General
Noel Francisco, the Representatives wrote: “As Members of Congress, we have a compelling interest to speak out in defense of the ATA, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, and in support of these American victims waiting for justice. We also seek to prevent future victims. For this reason an amicus brief supporting the grant of certiorari has already been filed by the House of Representatives. The Court should grant certiorari to review the Court of Appeals’ deeply flawed and troubling decision, which concerns issues of exceptional importance to the Nation. “We ask you now to expedite the requested response of the Solicitor General and request the full and fair consideration of the views herein.” In addition to Reps. Rice and Smith, the letter was co-led by nine other House members who represent plaintiffs in the case: Reps. Ted Budd (R-NC), William Keating (D-MA), Joe Kennedy (D-MA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Scott Perry (R-PA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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TJH
Centerfold
You gotta be kidding
A politician dies and goes to heaven. He sees a bunch of clocks and asks,
“What are all those clocks?” He is told, “Those are Lie-Clocks. Everyone on Earth has a Lie-Clock. Every time you lie the hands on your clock will move.” “Oh,” says the politician. “Whose clock is that?” “That’s George Washington’s clock. The hands have never moved, indicating that he never told a lie,” replies the angel. “Incredible,” says the politician. “And whose clock is that one?” The angel responds, “That’s Abraham Lincoln’s clock. The hands have moved twice, telling that Abe told only two lies in his entire life.” “Where’s my clock?” asks the politicians. The angel replies, “It’s in G-d’s office. He’s using it as a ceiling fan!”
Sense of the Sentence
Figure out what all these sentences have in common
1. Never odd or even. 2. Madam, I’m Adam. 3. Sit on a potato pan, Otis. 4. Go Hang a Salami, I’m a Lasagna Hog! 5. Was it a bat I saw? 6. Norma is as selfless as I am, Ron. 7. Lee had a heel. 8. So many dynamos. 9. “Reviled did I live,” said I, as evil I did deliver. 10. Are we not drawn onward, we few, drawn onward to new era? 11. “Do nine men interpret?” “Nine men,” I nod. 12. Ten animals slam in a net 13. Rise to vote, sir
14. 15. 16. 17.
Was it a cat I saw? Lived on decaf, faced no devil Cigar? Toss it in a can. It is so tragic A man, a plan, a cat, a ham, a yak, a yam, a hat, a canal, Panama. 18. Live on time, emit no evil. 19. Now sir, a war is never even sir, a war is won. 20. Step on no pets. 21. A nut for a jar of tuna.
Answer
Riddle me this? What is at the beginning of the end, the start of eternity, at the end of time and space, was in the middle of yesterday, but is nowhere in tomorrow? See answer to the right
The letter E
1.
NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
They are all palindromes. These sentences are the same whether read correctly or backwards. Go ahead: read them backwards and you will see what I mean.
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
FAMOUS AUTHORS TRIVIA
a. Because he was amazed when green ink once spilled on his breakfast and quickly decided to write a book along that theme. b. He held a write-in contest for his readers to pick the most esoteric topic to write about. c. His publisher bet that
C
he couldn’t write a book using only 50 different words so to prove them wrong he wrote this silly tale, using only 50 words. d. He wanted every parent to have to suffer reading a book about, well, green eggs and ham! 6. Stephen King is one of the most prolific horror writers in history with over 260 titles and over 350 million copies sold worldwide. He suffers from a phobia known as triskaidekaphobia. What is that phobia? a. He is constantly scared that people are playing tricks on him. b. He is always worried cadence is off. c. He is scared of the number 13 d. He is always afraid that the things he writes about will happen to him
Scorecard 5-6 Correct: You are a literary genius… and probably haven’t left your dingy basement in many years.
A
3.
D
2.
3-4 Correct: You are not bad. You are on the level of a 13-year-old…AAAAAHHHHHRRRRRR! HEEELLLLPP!
1.
0-2 Correct: Still having trouble getting through the book Green Eggs and Ham? It only has 50 words!
B- Dahl’s childhood experience inspired his book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Answers
a. J.K. Rowling b. Danielle Steel c. William Shakespeare d. Agatha Christie 5. Why did Theodor Seuss Geisel (AKA Dr. Seuss) write Green Eggs & Ham?
4.
a. Sam Clark b. John Tebor
a. Stratford-upon-Avon b. Stonehenge c. Historic Yorkshire d. The Cotswolds 4. Who is the bestselling author of all time?
5. C
a. Charles Dickens b. Roald Dahl c. Ernest Hemingway d. J.K. Rowling 2. What was Mark Twain’s real name?
c. Craig Jefferson d. Samuel Clemens 3. Where was William Shakespeare born?
6. C- About his phobia, King has said,
1. While in boarding school as a child, this writer and his classmates had been guinea pigs of the chocolate-making company Cadbury. Each year, he and his friends would be sent Cadbury’s newest creations to test. He later explained, “It was then I realized that inside this great Cadbury’s chocolate factory there must be an inventing room, a secret place where fully grown men and women in white overalls spent all their time playing around with sticky boiling messes, sugar and chocs, and mixing them up and trying to invent something new and fantastic.” Who is the writer?
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“When I’m writing, I’ll never stop work if the page number is 13 or a multiple of 13; I’ll just keep on typing till I get to a safe number. I always take the last two steps on my backstairs as one, making 13 into 12… When I’m reading, I won’t stop on page 94, 193, or 382, since the sums of these numbers add up to 13.”
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Torah Thought
Parshas Vayera By Rabbi Berel Wein
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here are many angels that walk amongst us in this world, unrecognized by others. Angels apparently adopt the coloration of the society into which their mission has taken them. The prophets of Israel describe in vivid detail the description of angels as they appear in heaven’s court. They have wings and many-faceted eyes. They are fiery and swift, fearsome and relentless. But when they are on earth, so to speak, they appear as ordinary members of the society that surrounds them. That is why in some of the narratives described for us in the Bible they are not immediately recognized as angels. This happens in the case of Yehoshua and with the mother of Shimshon. In this week’s Torah reading, the three angels originally appear as wayfarers, wandering nomads, walking in the midday heat. Only when they enter into the environment of holiness that marked the dwelling place of Avraham and Sarah is their true nature and accurate identity revealed.
Some creatures could enter that tent as Bedouin Arabs and emerge as angels of G-d. In the environment of Avraham and Sarah, what Abraham Lincoln famously called “the better angels within us” emerged and became dominant. It was this ability to truly identify and draw forth the goodness inherent in humankind that made this couple the ancestors of human civilization in its
is the story of this uphill climb in the saga of human development. Our ancestors transformed the world. They exposed the falsehoods and superstitions of paganism and idolatry. They established monotheism as the common norm of faith and eternal belief. They reconnected human beings with their Creator. And they taught all later generations to search for and identify with the
They taught us to believe in angels no matter how devilish a world we are living in.
most positive form. Civilization is the story of human transformation. The many generations from Kayin, the killer, to Avraham, the benefactor of all,
angels that the L-rd constantly sends to walk amongst us. By searching for angels we come to respect others and open ourselves to the task of helping our
fellow human beings. They taught us that human hospitality is a greater form of G-dly service than meditating in the hope of being in G-d’s presence, so to speak. They inculcated within us the spirit of compassion and goodness that lies at the heart of Jewish values and life. They taught us to believe in angels no matter how devilish a world we are living in. The amazing survival of the Jewish people over the ages of persecution and discrimination is a triumph not only of will but of attitude. We always believed that tomorrow could and would be better than today and that we would yet walk amongst angels here on earth. Even in a word dominated by the lifestyle of Sodom, Avraham sought to transform the evildoers rather than destroy them completely. He was always looking for angels. Sometimes that quest was fruitless, and G-d’s judgment naturally prevailed. But the greatness of Avraham was in the search and quest itself. Shabbat shalom.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
From the Fire
Parshas Vayeira The Wondrous Strength of Avraham Avinu By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf
LEARNING HOW TO EXERT OURSELVES Avraham Avinu was known for his attribute of kindness. Avraham was not just a kind person though. He is the “chariot” through which Hashem’s attribute of kindness came and still comes into the world. The Torah only tells us of two specific episodes, however, to demonstrate Avraham’s trait of kindness. The first is the story of the three angels at the beginning of the parsha. The second is the pasuk later in the parsha that says, “He planted an orchard in Be’er Sheva and called out, Va’yikrah, there in the name of Hashem, the G-d of the world” (Bereishis 21:33). Based on the Gemara, Rashi offers two explanations as to the meaning of the orchard, the “Eishel,” that Avraham planted: “There is a dispute between Rav and Shmuel: One says it was an orchard in order to produce fruit for guests at Avraham’s meals, and the other says it was an
inn for welcoming guests, in which he would serve all types of fruits.” With regard to the explanation that Avraham built a hostel to take in guests, Reish Lakish explains (Sotah 10a-b) as follows: “Do not read the pasuk ‘Va’yikrah – he called out,’ rather read it ‘Va’yikareih – he caused others to call out.’ This teaches us that Avraham Avinu caused the Name of Hashem to be in the mouths of every traveler. How did he do this? After they ate and drank, the guests stood up to bless Avraham. He said to them, ‘Did you actually eat from that which belongs to me?! You ate from the table of the G-d of the world.’ They then thanked, praised, and blessed the One Who spoke and the world came into being.” This was Avraham’s project in kindness. He invested decades of his
life bringing Hashem into the lives of the people of the world. Although the incident of the three guests was certainly great, it was still only one incident. It is remarkable, then, that the Torah spends only one pasuk – and it is only a hint in the pasuk that is the subject of a dispute between Rav and Shmuel – discussing the kindness in which Avraham invested decades of his life! Yet the Torah explains the incident with the three guests at length. It tells us what was served, who Avraham asked to do what, and many other details of the story! In addition, Bava Metzia 86b explains that for every act of kindness Avraham performed for the three angels, Avraham was rewarded with equivalent acts of kindness for his descendants: “Rav said: Everything that Avraham did for the angels personally, the Holy One Blessed be He did for his children Himself, and everything that Avraham did through a messenger, Hashem did for his children through a messenger.”
The Gemara explains that in the merit of the fact that Avraham brought the angels butter and milk, Hashem gave his children the manna. In the merit of the fact that Avraham walked with them to escort them, Hashem lead the Jewish People with the Pillar of Fire in the desert. In the merit of the fact that Avraham asked for some water to be brought to the guests, Hashem provided water through the rock to the Jewish People in the desert. Why do the Torah and the Gemara place such importance on Avraham’s single act of kindness with the three angels and not on his decades of the kindness that he performed with the inn, to which he dedicated his life?
RAV NOSSON TZVI FINKEL, ZT”L In November 2011, the Jewish People lost a tremendous tzaddik and talmid chacham, Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel, the rosh yeshivah of the
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Mirrer Yeshivah in Yerushalyim. Rav Nosson Tzvi was known most for the tremendous effort he poured into everything he did. Rav Nosson Tzvi grew up as a regular Modern Orthodox boy in Chicago and attended the Ida Crown Hebrew Academy. One of the newspapers in the area printed the page in his yearbook where they write what each student wants to be when he grows up. Under the Rosh Yeshivah’s name, it merely said “Undecided.” It is hard to imagine the amount of effort, m’ameitz, that the Rosh Yeshivah must have expended to go from such a background to become who he was. Rav Nosson Tzvi suffered from Parkinson’s disease. I spoke to a friend who told me about an acquaintance of his who was a former student of Rav Nosson Tzvi in the Mir. He brought his young son to meet the Rosh Yeshivah a few years ago, when Rav Nosson Tzvi was already suffering from the effects of this disease. When he brought his son into the Rosh Yeshivah’s room in his apartment, Rav Nosson Tzvi got up to greet them and spoke to his son. He was not shaking at all. After the man and his son left the room, the man commented to Rav Nosson Tzvi’s daughter that he was surprised at how well the Rosh Yeshivah was doing. The Rosh Yeshivah’s daughter was surprised and told him to peek through the door to see how he was doing. He looked through the door and saw that Rav Nosson Tzvi was shaking terribly. His daughter explained that for the whole hour before he came, the Rosh Yeshivah had been preparing himself to get his tremors under control so that when he met with them, he would not frighten the man’s son. The Rosh Yeshivah expended such m’ameitz, such effort! It is remarkable that such a thing is even physically possible for someone with Parkinson’s. My friend was privileged to meet with the Rosh Yeshivah about three decades ago when suddenly the Rosh Yeshivah asked him, “Moshe, do you think the Cubs will ever win the World Series?” I try to imagine the effort that Rav Nosson Tzvi put into going from being that little boy with the Cub’s hat to the gadol that he became.
TRUE EFFORT One of the papers in the area printed a story about the Rosh Yeshivah the week he was niftar. According to the story, one bochur in the Mirrer Yeshivah had a lot of holy chutzpah,
his condition, but Rav Nosson Tzvi got up, came to the table, sat with the bochur, and asked him what he wanted to learn. He answered that he was interested in mussar. The Rosh Yeshivah asked him if there was
For the whole hour before he came the Rosh Yeshivah had been preparing himself to get his tremors under control so that when he met with them, he would not frighten the man’s son.
and asked the Rosh Yeshivah if they could learn together. It was known that the Rosh Yeshivah would learn with various boys for ten or fifteen minutes here and there. The Rosh Yeshivah agreed and told the boy to come to his apartment at 8 p.m. that Tuesday night. The bochur must have been very excited. I imagine him telling all his friends that he has a study session with the Rosh Yeshivah. The bochur came that night, but the Rosh Yeshivah’s wife told him that at the last minute the Rav had to go to a wedding and that he would not be back until very late, so he should come back the next week. Disappointed, he left and returned the next Tuesday night. Again, however, the Rosh Yeshivah’s wife told him that the Rav was unable to learn because he was not feeling well and wouldn’t be able to learn that night either. The bochur felt very disappointed and left. A couple of days later, the boy was walking in the street in Meah Shearim, and heard someone calling his name. He looked and saw that it was the Rosh Yeshivah. Rav Nosson Tzvi told him that he was very sorry he hadn’t been able to learn the prior two weeks, but that he should come back the next Tuesday night and they would learn together then. The bochur came and found the Rosh Yeshivah was lying on the couch, as he did most of the time then because of his condition. The bochur started to feel bad that he was troubling the Rosh Yeshivah in
anything in particular he wanted to learn. The bochur said that he was trying to overcome his trait of laziness and was hoping to learn something about laziness. The Rosh Yeshivah leaped up from the table and called out, “Laziness!” and ran to the bookshelf. He pulled out a sefer and learned a section from it with the bochur with tremendous excitement and feeling. Recalling this story, the boy said that he does not remember what sefer they learned together, or what the Rosh Yeshivah said, but that he learned more about how to overcome laziness from the way the Rosh Yeshivah learned with him that night than any sefer could have taught him.
BACK TO AVRAHAM Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, zt”l, explains that Avraham’s act of kindness with the angels was so great because of the amazing effort it required. The incident occurred three days after Avraham’s circumcision. He was in tremendous pain and every single movement, every single gesture, was very painful. When we read that Avraham ran here, ran there, and served the guests personally, it does not sound hard. But for him, at that time, it took unbelievable strength and effort to do the mitzvah. The effort one puts forth to do a mitzvah is more precious than anything else. When Avraham Avinu took care of guests and taught them
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about Hashem for all of those years in the inn, it was in-line with his nature. Relatively speaking, it did not take very much effort for him. But that one particular mitzvah of taking care of guests on that day, with all of the pain involved, was a much greater act of kindness and created a merit for all of Avraham’s descendants. We do not see or know how Hashem weighs our actions. On Earth, one person may accomplish a lot and receive great recognition and honor for his accomplishments and another may do something that looks simple and easy, so no one notices. In Heaven, however, our actions are weighed by the amount of effort we put in. That is the lesson the Torah is trying to teach us by only making a brief reference to Avraham’s inn and his taking care of guests, which came naturally and easily for him, and explaining in depth his hospitality with the guests right after his circumcision. This teaches us how precious the mitzvos we do with effort are in Hashem’s Eyes. It does not matter whether one knows what he wants to do in life, or whether he’s “undecided.” The important thing right now is not what you do, but how you do it. If you do whatever you do with great effort, and you do not give up, you will be great. With regard to the Akeidah, the binding of Isaac, the Torah says, “Avraham lifted up his eyes” (Bereishis 22:4). With regard to Lot’s wife, however, it says, “she looked back” (Bereishis 19:26), meaning that she looked at the limitations and the narrowness of life. The main thing is to always lift up your eyes, to look up to your parents, your grandparents, and rebbeim, and see everything that you can become if you put in the effort and do not give up. May we merit to do everything with great effort, and greet Moshiach in Yerushalayim, may he come soon in our days.
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.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Between the Lines
Monkey See, Monkey Do By Eytan Kobre
Setting an example is not the main means of influencing others, it is the only means. -Albert Einstein
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n the 1930s, there was a young boy who had become addicted to sugar. His mother traveled all the way to New Delhi to enlist the aid of Mahatma Gandhi to help the boy quit. Upon finally reaching Gandhi, the mother asked him to tell her boy that sugar was unhealthy and that he should refrain from consuming it in such large quantities. “I cannot tell him that,” Gandhi replied, “but you may bring him back in a few weeks and then I will talk to him.” Confused and disappointed, the mother returned home with the boy. A few weeks later, they came to Gandhi again. This time, Gandhi looked directly at the boy and said sternly, “Young boy, you must stop eating sugar. It is not good for your health.” The boy nodded his head in agreement and promised to quit. The mother was baffled. “Why couldn’t you tell him that weeks ago when I first brought him?” “A few weeks ago,” explained Gandhi, “I was eating a lot of sugar myself.”
Gandhi understood that his words would be heeded only if he was prepared to set the example he meant to teach. Sedom was a particularly inhospitable place for hospitality. Generosity, kindness, and charity were loathed by the people, even Lot (Rashi, Bereishis 19:1). Yet, when the angels arrived to rescue him, Lot broke into hospitality mode. He couldn’t help it; he was a product of the household of Avraham – host par excellence. As the progenitor of Jewish childhood education (Meshech Chochma and Minchas Asher, Bereishis 18:19), Avraham knew that good behavior must not only be instructed but also modeled (Kol Rom and Darash Moshe, Bereishis 18:4; see Darash Moshe, Devarim 30:19). Avraham never told Lot to be hospitable –Lot simply observed Avraham being hospitable, and that example etched a permanent mark on Lot’s psyche, so potent that it overcame the dictates of an evil society (Rashi, Bereishis 19:1). Parents well know the futility of a do-what-I-say-not-what-I-do education. Rather, “parents must set a good example for their children; they must be careful not to make any improper remarks in front of them, and certainly not to do anything improper in front of them” (Menoras HaMaor 3:2:1). Indeed, “the talk of the child in the marketplace is either that of his father or his mother” (Sukkah 56b).
No surprise there; after all, children watch and absorb their parents’ every move and word during their formative years. This is the golden rule of parenting: example, example, example. Examples, of course, cut both ways. R’ Paysach Krohn tells of a teacher who caught one of his students stealing pencils from the other children. When the teacher called the boy’s parents to discuss the issue, the boy’s father unwittingly exposed the source of his son’s actions. “Why would he need to take pencils from other children? I bring home more than enough from the office to supply the entire class!” Conversely, there was a group of Jewish children playing Monopoly for days on end. One parent couldn’t believe that the game, which typically lasts a matter of hours, would not end. “How is this game still going? Surely someone must have lost all their money by now.” Apparently, at the beginning of the game, the children had decided to establish a gemach (charity fund) for those lacking funds. Every time one of the children ran out of money, the gemach was there to help out. Children aren’t told to establish gemachs; it’s what they see done by their parents and communities. Setting the right example for our children is woven into the very fabric of the educational process. And you shall teach to your sons and speak in them, while you sit in your house,
and while you walk on the way, and when you go to sleep, and when you arise (Devarim 11:19). Striking. Why does the Torah express the obligation to educate our children only in terms of you? Shouldn’t we educate our children while they sit and while they walk and while they go to sleep and while they arise? Evidently, observed the Alter of Kelm, if you want to teach your children to study Torah, you must do so yourself. Don’t tell – show! You study at home, you study while you walk, you study when you go to sleep, and you study when you arise. When you do, they will too (see also Alshich, Devarim 6:6). R’ Yitzchak Hutner once observed a father disciplining his son to daven properly. Every time the child diverted his attention or so much as paused, the father rebuked him. When Rav Hutner asked the father what he sought to accomplish, the father explained that he was teaching his son to daven. “No, you’re not,” Rav Hutner shot back, “you’re teaching your son to grow up and tell his son to daven. If you want to teach your son to daven, you daven.” Or, as the Kotzker Rebbe counseled: “If you want your child to study Torah, study Torah in front of them; if you only tell them to study, you will instead have children who will one day tell their own children to study Torah.” Appearing to the childless wife of Manoach to herald the birth of a son
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buke we receive as parents is from the unintended but inevitable actions of our own children. A follower once bemoaned to the Gerrer Rebbe his son’s disinterest in learning. “I’ve tried everything. I’ve tried enticements. I’ve tried punishments. I’ve tried motivation. Nothing works. What should I do?”
This is the golden rule of parenting: example, example, example.
to re-send the angel to reiterate the instructions already given to his wife. Why did Manoach need to hear from the angel directly? Manoach’s inquiry, according to R’ Shimon Schwab, was not about nazarite laws but about education generally (Maayan Bais Hashoeva, Naso). Manoach was asking how he could raise a nazir if he himself was not a nazir. And the angel agreed – you can’t. “From everything I said to your wife, you must caution” (Shoftim 13:13). To raise a nazir, you must act like a nazir. To parent children successfully, we must set the example they are to follow. And, by extension, if we set a substandard example, we have ourselves to fault for the fallout. The ben sorer u’moreh (rebellious son) was to be executed for his inevitable demise based upon specific early indicia of waywardness, including that he consumed large quantities of meat. Yet, there could be no ben sorer u’moreh in Jerusalem (Tosefta, Negaim 6:2). Because of the sacrifices offered in the Bais HaMikdash, the city was a place where eating copious quantities of meat was the norm (see e.g. Pesachim 57a). People there were, naturally, a bit more “gluttonous” than elsewhere. With that as a paradigm, a child hailing from Jerusalem could hardly be faulted for gluttony, thus negating an essential element of his culpability (Meshech Chochma, Devarim 21:18). Sometimes, the most stinging re-
“Well,” the Rebbe replied, “does the boy’s father himself learn?” Another young father once came to the Gerrer Rebbe and asked how properly to raise his son, who surely was destined to become a great sage and scholar. The Rebbe was taken aback by such hubris. “How are you so sure that your son is destined for greatness?” “Well, you’ll never believe it,” the young father explained. “Even at such a young age, when my son plays with Lego, he builds two small boxes, placing one on his forehead and one on his upper arm. Tefillin! And if that’s what he plays with now, just imagine the aspirations and the potential.” “Sir,” the Rebbe replied nonchalantly, “stop davening at home and go to shul in the mornings.” * * * Setting an example for our children may not be sufficient, but it is necessary. Child education is often a monkey-see, monkey-do proposition. If, in our own lives, we emphasize the fleeting, the materialistic, the disparaging, the dishonest, the negative, the unkind, the illogical – if we don’t learn or pray or sing or give charity or fulfill G-d’s commandments enthusiastically – can we expect our children to be any different?
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(Shimshon), an angel instructed that the child be raised as a nazir; not only that, the angel cautioned, but she too would have to follow the nazirite laws while pregnant (Shoftim 13:4-7). Now, the basic nazirite laws are not complicated: no grape products, no haircuts or shaving, no contact with the dead. No big deal. Yet Manoach asked G-d
Why did Tony
Santino put the
largest tax increases in his budget in the Five Towns and Atlantic Beach?
Atlantic Beach 14.78% • North Woodmere 6.58% Cedarhurst 4.50% • Lawrence 4.50% 2018 Adopted Budget
Because he doesn’t care about you! Santino spends our tax dollars giving huge salaries to his friends and family!
On Tuesday, November 7,
vote for Laura Gillen Laura will stop the corruption at Town Hall!
Eytan Kobre is a writer, speaker, and attorney living in Kew Gardens Hills. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? E-mail eakobre@outlook.com. paid for by Laura Gillen 2017
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The Observant Jew
Don’t Get Involved By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
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here’s an old Jewish joke about a group of people sitting on a jury. When it comes time for the verdict the judge calls upon the foreman to deliver the jury’s decision. The fellow launches into a longwinded response: “Your Honor, we, the members of the jury, have been pondering the facts of this case long and hard. We looked at each piece of evidence to determine, in the American way, “Did he, or didn’t he do it?” Your Honor, after careful deliberation, we, the members of the jury, have decided: WE SHOULDN’T MIX IN!” Of course, it’s silly for them to come to that decision because as the jury that’s precisely their role, to make a judgment call based on the facts and testimony presented. To choose not to get involved would be a dereliction of their civic duty. However, in many cases in life, we tend to get drawn into discussions and subsequently pass judgment on people or situations that have nothing to do with us. From politics to members of our community, or even people on social media or the world stage, it’s easy to fall prey to the attraction and excitement of these topics. In most cases, we are not being called upon to judge others. When someone does something we consider wrong, we must ask ourselves how the Torah views this action. Now this is important: I said, how it views the “action.” That’s because we must differentiate between the action and the person. A good person can do a bad action and still be good. It will really depend on their motivation, their state of
mind after the fact, and many other factors. When we see an action done that shouldn’t be done, we should take the appropriate response. It may be gently trying to correct the person (yelling at them and telling them they are going to burn for eternity has been shown to have surprisingly few positive effects) or training yourself or your family to avoid such behavior. Regardless, it’s rarely our place or responsibility to vilify them. However, that’s a topic for another day, because today I want to discuss
The Rosh in Orchos Chaim (Day One, item 20) says that when praying one must clear all other topics from his mind, and “that it is a primary rule that one should accustom himself not to look at things that don’t belong to him.” It makes a lot of sense. If something has no connection to us, why spend the time and energy thinking about it? The president or prime minister won’t be calling most of us for guidance, so why waste time pontificating on politics? Hashem won’t ask
If something has no connection to us, why spend the time and energy thinking about it?
when we shouldn’t get involved. In most cases, not only should we not rush to judgment, we should realize it has no bearing in our lives and we shouldn’t even care about the story. I received an e-mail one day (OK, it was today) about a piece of jewelry that was found in a shul. Attached was a picture. I started to download the photo to see the jewelry when I realized how silly that was. I know it wasn’t anyone in my family who’d lost it and I wouldn’t know whose it was by looking at it. There was absolutely no point in viewing that photo other than simple curiosity. In this case it wouldn’t have been so bad, but in many others, prying eyes and ears can be very harmful.
us to exact punishment on someone who sins, so why try to identify what they did if it doesn’t directly affect us? The hard part is controlling our curiosity but recently I got a brief lesson in this which was so simple that I have to share it with you. While waiting for someone to finish an appointment, I went into a store that sells various items, many of which are closeouts. I wouldn’t say the savings were amazing, but I was interested to see if they had anything I could use. I began going up and down each aisle, exploring their merchandise. At one point, I passed a few aisles that had gift boxes in red and green, furry red socks with white trim, decorated fake fir trees, and pictures of
a fellow who looked like he could a Jewish rabbi if not for the red suit. As I passed the aisles without caring to peruse the items, it struck me. I knew that there was nothing there that would interest me. I had no curiosity about the things they were selling. Isn’t that how I should approach this concept? What someone else is driving, wearing, or eating isn’t my business. Their spouse is of no interest to me and I don’t need to think about their lifestyle or whether they have it easier than me. I don’t have a need to know nor a desire to look because it’s part of their life, not mine. HaKadosh Baruch Hu gives me what I need and gives them what they need. Just as I’m not interested in Xmas decorations, I’m not interested in what others have. What they’re missing? That’s a different story. When it comes to helping others – that is my business. Judging others? Looking at what’s behind closed doors? That’s G-d’s business, and I think I’ll leave it to Him. 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 Instagram @RabbiGewirtz or 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.
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Israel Today
It Washes Right Off! By Rafi Sackville
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he sabra, that inimitable Israeli fruit, prickly on the outside, yet sporting juicy, internal gentleness, was the metaphor of my generation’s view of Israel. It meant something to a young teenager contemplating a future life here. That, and the adages “Israel is Real” and “We never promised you a rose garden” are striking and nonpareil examples of enterprising Israeli creativity from yesteryear. Whereas the concept of the sabra is an apt metaphor for Israel, in the real world I’m not eating one unless some poor chap has de-prickled its thorns. Even after defanging I’m not too impressed by the taste. It’s notk as totally juicy as a peach or plum: it has pockets of sweetness surrounded by a bumpy hard like substance one has to maneuver around your mouth. It’s the kind of fruit a dentist might give you to see if the senses in your tongue are in working order. Those ad campaigns lay scattered and dusty in the history of state-sponsored attempts to formulate a particular view of this country. Our omnipresent online access to what is happening in the here and now has seen a shift in the structure of these campaigns.
Today they are more directed to specific demographics and are less general in message. What has not passed into the scrap heaps of history is the unique manner in which companies try to sell products to the masses. I’m regularly chuffed and amused by
line was somewhere in northern Galil or in the desert in the south of the country, where the air is clear and crisp. However, the chances are the factory which produced them was in some industrial zone that suffers from high levels of pollution. I’d hate to think
We once saw a dreidel hat for dogs. Go figure. I can’t explain..
the extent that Israelis will go to sell things. For example, I am transfixed by Halva stores that sport amazingly large wheels of marble that grind against each other to produce sesame oil. Watching the oil drip out of the funnel at the base of the turning marble is mesmerizing. It may exist in other countries, but I like to think it very unique to Israel. There was a time when one could purchase tins of holy water from the Kinneret. Or better yet, closed tins of Israeli air. I have always wondered about those tins: I can understand if the production
they were tinned around Haifa Bay where the skyline is too often murkily suspicious. I’ve noticed that many supermarkets overseas tend to favor self-serving salad bars. Supermarkets here don’t offer such services. What we have instead are pickle and olive stations where they have opened large tins of condiments (the very same that sit on their shelves) for customers to pick and choose from, usually at a higher cost. It’s that feeling that one gets of being able to make a choice in a world where so many choices are made for us that make pickle bars so popular.
Bakeries in America and Australia tend to focus on cakes and croissants. Maybe the reason it’s difficult to find bagel stores around Israel is due to our love of bourekas: those pastry delights filled with potato, Bulgarian cheese, spinach or mushrooms. Many of my students arrive at school with a bag of them. To wash them down they drink “shoko,” chocolate milk in an oblong plastic bag. The idea is to suck the milk out of a rip in the bag you have made with your teeth. Those bourekas were originally brought to Israel by Jews from the Balkans. The Yemenites have introduced jachnun, a slow-baked, rolled up pastry that turns a dark, reddish brown, and malawach, that delicious pan-fried bread. One Israeli invention that is loved countrywide is Bamba, the peanut-flavored snack. It is one of the first foods given to babies. It has been widely reported that our addiction to Bamba from such a young age is the main reason there are so few peanut allergies in Israel. One can find strange products for every Jewish festival. I’ve seen a hat-menorah for Chanukah: yes, the wearer was walking around with lit candles on his head.
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We once saw a dreidel hat for dogs. Go figure. I can’t explain. Are there any benefits for coating your face in mud from the Dead Sea? I don’t know, but someone’s making a fortune off of human vanity. Yes, bus stop libraries do exist. Based on trust, you are able to borrow books from a shelf at certain bus stops in major cities and return them when you’ve finished. Awaiting my turn to pay at the local Steimatsky bookstore here in Ma’alot, I turned my attention to the counter and the little knickknacks they sell. There were writing implements, bookmarks, key chains and the like. I picked up a small tin and lifted the lid. Inside was a bar of soap that had carved out in beautiful lettering Eishes chayil mi yimtzah, a woman of valor who can find? Inside another tin was a dark green bar with the letters V’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha, love your brother as you love yourself. I held both bars of soap in my
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hand, turned them over and took a sniff. The fragrance was pleasant, but
about taking words from Tanach and turning them into bars of soap.
woman? It’s a symbol of cleanliness? It wipes one clean of all unpleasant odors? And why do I need a bar of soap to remind me to love my neighbor as I love myself? The recipient of such a gift may believe I’m sending a message about poor personal hygiene. What man in his right mind would give his woman of valor such a present? I’d drop it on the doorstep and run for my life. More to the point, what does it mean when, after having used the soap several times, it washes away into nothingness? The bookstore is my new favorite spot in the mall. I go in with the anticipation of finding a new line of soap that contains verses more appropriate to the product. The company could start off with the obvious: Timche es zecher Amalek, wipe out the memory of Amalek. Now that’s a bar of soap I’d buy.
the concept didn’t sit well with me. There was something not quite right
And I couldn’t work out the message: the soap is for a sweet
Rafi Sackville, formerly of Cedarhurst, teaches in Ort Maalot in Western Galil.
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BOBKER ON
BALFOUR PART I
Friday, erev Shabbos, November 2, 1917, when the mightiest Empire in the world, backed by La Société des Nations (The League of Nations), history’s first international organization created to maintain world peace, came out in favor of a Jewish homeland, the first recognition of a world power in nearly 1,900 years for Jewish rights to Palestine, the announcement obliterated the status quo in bitterly divided Orthodox communities. This was a political earthquake that jolted and permanently altered Jewish history. One headline in a Hebrew weekly (Doar ha-Yom) roared, “Year One of the Redemption of Israel.” When General Edmund Allenby led his British troops into Jerusalem only five weeks later, finally ending 400 years of Ottoman occupation of the Holy Land, religious Zionists went spiritually ballistic: this was
another “sign” that the Zionism endeavor was paving the way for an imminent Messianic redemption. More optimism gushed forth three years later. In June 1920 Herbert Samuel became the first Jewish “ruler” of the Promised Land since the wicked Agrippa II succeeded Herod II in the year 50. Especially shaken was a fledgling organization only five years old. Agudas Yisrael, literally “Union of Israel,” had just managed to unite Orthodox Jews in Europe and Palestine under one political umbrella in 1912 to help combat (“strength in numbers”) all the anti-Torah forces that were sweeping through traditional households and decimating the youth. The Aguda leadership has never fully recovered from Lord Balfour’s warm words to Lord Rothschild, who was the head of the Zionist Federation in Great Britain at the time, that His Majesty’s Government “views with favor the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people.” Agudas Yisrael’s harsh rejectionist stance against Zionism was now on
shaky ground. Its platform was no longer sturdy enough to hold back a surge of Judaic hope and optimism among hundreds and thousands of its own excited members. Fed up with pogroms and poverty and disinterested in the internal politics between Mizrahi, Aguda, and other groups, Orthodox Jews themselves mobilized to help make the British decree a reality. A Jewish state had leaped from the realms of fantasy to possibility. The debate was no longer theoretical. The near unanimous rabbinic anti-Zionism had run into a brick-wall of geo-political reality. In some circles the Foreign Secretary of England was hailed as a modern-day Cyrus, the king of Persia who encouraged Babylonian Jewry to return to the Holy Land in 539 BCE and rebuild the Second Temple. The popularity of Zionism had always been Aguda’s Achilles hell: how to love Zion but not Zionists. How did the Chofetz Chaim, a strong advocate of the establishment of Agudas Yisrael, react? There are several accounts. In one he described the unex-
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pected missive as “a smile from heaven” while pointing out that the Hebrew letters for Balfour spell out Bal Pe’or, the name of a Canaan’ish idol that led Jews astray in the desert. In other words: “Redemption” would depend on how Jews handled the British Declaration. Others were clearly not in favor. Rabbi Avraham Mordechai Alter, the influential third Rebbe of the Ger dynasty, the largest and most important chassidic group in Poland, and gifted co-leader of Aguda, together with his Litvishe counterpart, R’ Chaim Ozer Grodzinsky of Vilna, became very upset when a group of Mizrahi rabbis in Warsaw started reciting Hallel on the anniversary of the Balfour Declaration. Although Rav Alter saw nothing messianic in the British government’s act he did see the unprecedented announcement as an excellent historic opportunity to fulfill the mitzvah of yishuv Eretz Yisrael, “If by G-d’s providence, there will be greater opportunity to settle the land [of Israel], then the obligation of settlement is also greater.” Rav Grodzinsky opposed a Jewish state out of concern that it would bring danger to the Jewish people. He also distinguished between “a state ruled by Jews” to which he had no objection, and a “Jewish State” which he considered an oxymoron if run by secular Jews. Similarly Rabbi Boruch Ber Leibowitz, the saintly rosh yeshiva of Knesseth Beis Yitzchak in Slabodka, warned his colleagues that a Jewish state would lead to war in the Middle East and that Jewish law prohibited Jews from placing themselves in harm’s way. Meanwhile Rabbi Chaim Elazar Spira, the Rebbe of Munkatch, although not a supporter of Agudas Yisrael, agreed with them and minced no words. He considered Jewish manual labor (“plowshares and agricultural colonies”) as “evil forces,” contradictory to the Torah’s tradition of political passivity (“One should not expect Redemption from any source other than G-d!”) and fiercely argued that “ordinary” Jews, even religious ones, do not belong in Jerusalem. The Admor of Chabad, R’ Yitzchok Yosef Schneerohn, was even more vocal. It was obvious to all sides that it was no longer business as usual. Balfour singlehandedly boosted the pro-Zion momentum within the Orthodox bloc. The gentiles had blown the uncertain political lid hovering over Palestine right off. It was not exactly a red carpet but it was close enough to inspire, unify, and gener-
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“
If the religious would take part [in the Return to Zion movement then] everything would undoubtedly go forward according to the Torah -Rabbi Isaac Feigenbam, av bes din of Warsaw, Poland
ate immediate action. Consider Rabbi Yehuda Ashlag from Lodz, Poland, perhaps the most famous kabbalist in Europe. He packed his bags and left for Palestine, at the age of 36, where he found contentment doing manual labor before being appointed the Rav of Givat Shaul, Jerusalem. Rabbi Chaim Israel Srul Morgenstern of Pila, the determined and optimistic third Kotzker Rebbe, dived into the deep end of the Balfour pool with an ambitious paddle. He went searching for 1,000 rabbinic families in Poland who would agree on a collective move to Palestine, to act as examples, to lead their communities, Moses-style, to the Promised Land. He failed. Pity. In less than two decades, thanks to the short Austrian despot with a stiff right arm, there was not a single trace that a Jewish community had ever existed in Pila. Meanwhile, Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Bronrot, the Rav of Ciechanow, east-central Poland, and on the board of Agudas HaRabbonim of Poland, joined 40 other rabbis and publicly announced their support of the Balfour Declaration. Rabbi Yeshayahu Shapira, son of R’ Elimelech, the founder of the Grodzisker dynasty, turned down his Rebbe royalty of succession, called upon all Orthodox Jews to sell their businesses and possessions and join him in making aliya. Rav Shapira, his wife, Chaya Sara, three sons and two daughters left. On arrival he was content cleaning out Solomon’s Pools near Bethlehem. The man who replaced him as the next Admor of Grodzisk was shoved into a gas chamber at Treblinka. In 1924 Rav Shapira inspired Rabbi Isaiah Hoffstein, the Kozienicer Rebbe, scion of a family who pioneered chassidism in Poland, and R’ Yehezkel Taub, the Yablonar (“Pioneer”) Rebbe – “I’d rather be a laborer in the land of Israel than a Rebbe in the Diaspora!” – to move to the Holy Land. This terrific trio, a new breed of chassidic entrepreneurs coming from the traditional Royal Courts, formed Nahlas Yaakov (“Inheritance of Jacob”), offered creative financing to chassidim, a 5-year payment plan to buy lots, and successfully launched Kfar Hasidim on the banks of the Kishon River.
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he extraordinary sweeping shift away from Aguda’s uncompromising Kattowitz platform came at a price. Jewish unity
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was both strengthened and weakened. No matter in which direction the Aguda hierarchy moved they alienated blocs of loyal supporters. Here’s an example: Rabbi Itzhak (“Itzikel”) Jacob Thumin, son of R’ Abraham, the Rav of Buczacz, Ukraine, was a reliable passionate Aguda activist, a generous donator, and chief spokesman at its founding convention. When a post-Balfour Aguda began cuddling up to the pro-Zionist Mizrahi bloc he was furious and left the movement with his supporters. Of course, the senior Aguda rabbinate, a (Litvishe) Rav Grodzinsky and a (chassidishe) Rav Alter of Ger, were not naïve. They recognized there were new facts on the ground to consider. Everybody, including governments and armies with a stake in the Mid-East, were forced to reevaluate their positions to be in synch with the new geo-political reality of the British Empire. Rav Grodzinsky and Rav Alter clearly understood the risks and consequences of compromising so soon on their recent stance at Kattowicz but felt they had no choice. Sustaining a negative absolutism for Zionism as though nothing had happened was folly. It was hard to ignore facts: the overwhelming majority of their own members had erupted in an enthusiastic pro-gusto activity for Zionist settlement. In less than a decade after Balfour there were three times as many Jews in the Yishuv. Donations from thousands of small blue-and-white JNF tin pushkes had soared, reflecting the rising tide of enthusiasm around the world. “When in doubt,” advised the Talmud, “see how the people act, and that is the law.” And what did they see in the streets? A veritable Who’s Who of important Torah personalities who were impatient and unwilling to wait for an official Aguda policy paper, a convention, more endless discussions while anti-Semitism was stalking and tormenting every single Jew. There was now a plausible Exit opportunity from a gentile power; use it or lose it! Cracks in the wall of hesitancy began when Rabbi Meir Simcha (Ohr Someach), the highly influential long-serving (40 years) Litvishe Rav of Dvinsk, Latvia, who, although no supporter of political Zionism, enthusiastically applauded the British government’s initiative. The cracks widened when the Balfour Declaration jolted the world of the regal Rabbi Israel Friedman, an Aguda supporter, the first
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(and only) Ruzhiner Rebbe, whose six sons, four sons-in-law, and grandsons constituted the “House of Ruzhin,” and who dropped his bitter opposition of Zionism and became an enthusiastic money raiser for the cause. And on it went... The wall was unable to withstand the sudden collective push for Zion from loyal Aguda members in the wake of Balfour’s extraordinary opening. Rabbi Chaim Meir Yehiel Shapira, the Drohobyczer Rebbe, and R’ Shalom Shlomo (“Reb Shlomenyu”) Chaim Friedmann, the Sadigora Rebbe, joined forces to create Yishuv Eretz Yisrael “to establish settlements in the Holy Land in the spirit of Ezra and Nehemiah and the Torah.” The prominent Rabbi Chanoch Heinich Eidelman (Eiges), co-founder of a kibbutz kollel with Rav Grodzinsky that attracted some of the best students in Lithuania, was energized by “Balfour” and signed a petition in 1923 with scores of Polish and Lithuanian rabbis supporting Mizrahi. Meanwhile Rabbi Aaron Kirschenbaum, an Aleksander chossid, and R’ Avraham Isaac, a nephew of the Novominsker Rav, made aliya and established Nahlat Lublin in Hadera on the Mediterranean coast. R’ Isaac Gertstenkorn, a Skierniewicer chossid, began to build a whole new suburb adjacent to Ramat Gan. We now know it as Bnei Brak.
Rabbi Chaim Elazar Spira, the Rebbe of Munkatch (above, third from right with R’ Meir Shapiro of Lublin to his right), considered Jewish manual labor (“plowshares and agricultural colonies”) as “evil forces,” contradictory to the Torah’s tradition of political passivity (“One should not expect Redemption from any source other than G-d!”) and fiercely argued that “ordinary” Jews, even religious ones, do not belong in Jerusalem
NEXT WEEK: PART II: Another Talmud saying: “A gentile usually makes himself heard!” Next week we shall examine Aguda’s response to His Majesty’s Royal Government’s next political epistle of July 7, 1937, when Lord Robert Peel presented a 400-page Royal Commission that recommended a Solomonian approach to Palestine. Slice it into two states! The mouse roared. Give 1,000,000 Arabs the largest portion (75 percent) including Jerusalem and the “leftover” real estate to the 400,000 Jews.
Joe Bobker is the author of the popular series on “Torah With a Twist of Humor” and the 18-volumes on the Historiography of Orthodox Jews and the Holocaust. He can be reached at jbobker@gmail. com.
Rabbi Chaim Ozer Grodzinsky of Vilna, Lithuania, (top), opposed a Jewish state out of concern that it would bring danger to the Jewish people. He also distinguished between “a state ruled by Jews” to which he had no objection, and a “Jewish State” which he considered an oxymoron if run by secular Jews. The Chofetz Chaim (above) described the unexpected British missive as “a smile from heaven” while pointing out that the Hebrew letters for Balfour spell out Bal Pe’or, the name of an idol that led Jews astray in the desert. In other words: “Redemption” would depend on how Jews handled the British Declaration
“If by God’s providence, there will be greater opportunity to settle the land [of Israel], then the obligation [to fulfill the mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisrael] is also greater,” noted Rabbi Avraham Mordechai Alter, the Gerer Rebbe, (above). Rabbi Meir Simcha (Ohr Someach), the highly influential Litvishe Rav of Dvinsk, Latvia, (top), although no supporter of political Zionism, enthusiastically applauded the British government’s initiative
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Reflections on the Balfour Declaration By Larry Domnitch
Lord Arthur Balfour in Jerusalem, 1925
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mid the destruction of World War I, hope emerged on the horizon for the beleaguered Jewish people: the Balfour Declaration. The war, which had officially begun on the ninth of Av, now offered a moment of respite and hope. The Balfour Declaration, announced by the British government through foreign secretary Arthur Balfour in a letter to British Jewish leader and former MP, Lord Walter Rothschild, proclaimed British intentions to grant the Jews a national home in Palestine.
HOPE It seemed like a dream: The establishment of a Jewish homeland as guaranteed by the Balfour Declaration seemed closer, offering solace and hope. These were very tragic times. At the beginning of World War I, there were about ninety-five thousand Jews in the Palestine.
But those numbers soon diminished following the outbreak of war due to the forced expulsion of Jews mostly with Russian citizenship by the Turks as well as the f light of Jews f leeing Turkish wartime oppression. Starvation
were less than 45,000 Jews in the land. The future of the Zionist enterprise was threatened. Times were bleak for world Jewry. Tens of thousands of Jewish soldiers from all sides were falling on the battlefields of Eu-
“His Majesty’s Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object...”
and disease also tragically took a significant toll on the population as well. By November 1917, there
rope. Since the beginning of the war, about one and a half million Jewish refugees f led the destruc-
tion wrecked by armies and by forcible expulsions by Russian forces, which presented its own dangers. Jewish towns throughout Russia, Poland and Galitzia were ravaged by pogroms, causing even further devastation. People in cities in Poland and Russia overcrowded from the f lood of refugees faced starvation. The extent of the destruction defied description. Amid catastrophe, the Balfour Declaration was issued: “His Majesty’s Government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.”
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Such were the words that shook the Jewish – and non-Jewish – world. Jews fought and bled for nations which too often told them in return that they are not welcome. The Balfour Declaration told the Jews that they have a recognized home, though not yet established.
ZION ON THE MAP The Balfour Declaration was not just a British policy statement. U.S. President Woodrow Wilson expressed his support, as did leaders of France, Italy, Greece, and other Western nations. The prospect of Jewish statehood became something tangible. There were myriad reasons as to why the Balfour Declaration was written. Members of Britain’s parliament and Winston Churchill felt that a declaration in favor of a Jewish state would bring Jewish inf luence and power around the world on the side of the Allies. They felt that Jews in Russia would possibly be able to inf luence the Russians to stay on the Allies’ side. Ironically, they thought that Germany would possibly be issuing a statement in support of a Jewish state in Palestine. Such a statement, they feared, would push German-born Jews now living in the United States to inf luence the U.S. not to enter the war. This, of course, was a moot point after April 7, 1917, when the United States entered the war on the Allies’ side. Opposition to Balfour emerged among the British military occupation in Palestine soon after the
war’s end. The British would eventually completely backtrack on its commitments, with the issuing of the 1939 MacDonald White Paper, as Western nations looked away with indifference. The Balfour Declaration did not create the Jewish State, but by galvanizing world support its prospect became something eventual. Three decades later a Jewish state was born.
DIRECTION AND IMPETUS Zion was now a more viable destination. The Balfour Declaration spurred the 3rd wave of Aliyah, 1919-1923, from Poland and Russia. Forty-thousand Jews arrived f leeing from anti-Semitism and devastating post-war pogroms in Eastern Europe. The most horrific wave of pogroms occurred in the Ukraine which saw the most emigrants to Zion. Many also arrived from recently declared independent Poland where Jews also suffered anti-Semitic violence. Immigrants of the 4th Aliyah wave between 1924-1929 of eighty-thousand, mostly from Poland and the USSR, were also escaping oppression. The fifth wave, in 1932-1936, of over 175,000 immigrants arrived, mostly from Germany as a result of the avalanche of Jew hatred in Germany with the rise of Nazism. These waves, albeit under horrific circumstances, produced the foundation of the State of Israel. The London Jewish Chronicle, which lauded the Balfour Declaration, made a poignant observa-
Jewish women in the Old City, 1903
tion in 1917. “Neither England, nor France, nor the United States, can give Palestine to the Jewish people, it must be desired, it must be sought for, it must be earned.”
A PROMISE DENIED According to the declaration, the Jewish homeland would include the other side of the Jordan River in what today is the nation of Jordan. It was carved down in a 1922 partition, and then again in the November 29, 1947, UN Resolution 181, passed by the General Assembly which granted the Jews 12% of the land mass promised them by the Balfour Declaration. The Jews were forced to forfeit land to Jordan and the land in the north of Palestine, handing that portion over to France, which had been given a mandate for Lebanon.
ONE HUNDRED YEARS LATER In November 1917, a small minority of Jewry lived in Palestine. Today about one half of World Jewry resides in Israel. Today, opponents of Israel are still fighting the Balfour DeclaA copy of the original Balfour Declaration, in the Israel Museum
ration. The opposition was once spearheaded by the Mufti Haj Amin al-Husseini. Today, there are several inheritors of that role from the Fatah, to Hamas, to Hezbollah. Then, Jewish opposition was from among the elites and some others who feared that Jewish nationalism threatened their status and would cast aspersions on their patriotism. Suddenly, they might be seen as pariahs within their societies. They were often referred to as “assimilationists.” Today, those Jews who express opposition to the State of Israel are seeking amalgamation with their political allies, the far Left, which has become increasingly anti-Israel over the last several years. One century later, in a world being confronted with Islamic terror, Israel is on the frontline. It has managed to survive terror since 1920, even before its existence, and even thrive. The people of Israel have given more to the world than the Balfour Declaration gave to the Jews. With the help of the Al-mighty.
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Dating Dialogue
What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
I’m 28-years-old, and around six months ago I moved into my sister and brother-in-law’s home so that I could be in New York and hopefully have a better opportunity of meeting someone. I’m very grateful that they’ve taken me in and so I try to help out as much as possible in order to make my stay less of a burden. I help around the house and also babysit when I can for their three small children.
On Shabbos, I often take their children to the park, so that they can take a nice long nap or just relax. The kids love it there, and I also enjoy being outside and watching all the children have a great time. Around three months ago, I noticed a man there at the park pretty regularly with a young boy, who I assumed could be his son. I admired how attentive and loving he appeared with the boy and also felt attracted to him in general. Eventually, I found myself standing near him and managed to strike up a conversation. It turns out that he is divorced and this little boy is his son. After a number of weeks of chatting, he asked me out for coffee and we’ve been speaking on the phone constantly since then and also going out. He’s such a nice guy, so comfortable to be around, and we seem to have a great connection. Though he is divorced with a child, that doesn’t bother me. I could easily see myself taking on such a responsibility. The problem is that we have very different backgrounds and “hashkafas.” He is a Young Israel-type of guy, grew up in such a family and remains that way today – and so does his entire family. He sounds very sincere and very comfortable with his status quo. I, on the other hand, grew up in a yeshivish-type of family, davening my whole life in a shteibel, and living a much more restrictive lifestyle in many ways. We are both very honest about our differences and neither of us are interested in changing our hashkafas in any way. On the other hand, we really get along beautifully, connect in so many important ways, and have a deep respect for each other. I’m curious if you all think that a marriage can be happy and successful when two people have such differences in this most important area of their lives? Can such a marriage work? Can there be a mutual respect but separation along these lines and still be a great marriage?
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The Panel The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S. ou are 28-years-old and have had ample time to discuss your approaches to child rearing, halachic observance, exposure to the secular world, religious growth and other matters that are within the domain of hashkafa with this young man and others. You don’t really think that incompatible approaches to these important aspects of Jewish family life are going to work. Nonetheless, you met this young man, are attracted to him, and find his company pleasurable. Maybe the reason you are asking this question is because you haven’t really separated from your family of origin and developed your own identity. Maybe it’s just convenient that you met him and you have company with whom to schmooze, even though you both know that your differences will cause issues in a marriage. You are still living with family although you came to New York to broaden your shidduch horizons. Go out and grow. Get an apartment of your own or with roommates, get involved in causes and organizations, and get connected with shadchanim and singles events. Get out there and grow your identity.
Single Girl Find Happiness Married to a Divorced Guy with a Son.” Even better, you have discovered an affinity and deep respect for each other. So far so good. There’s a bigger issue at hand. It surpasses your divergent attitudes regarding Sheitels vs. Snoods, Black Hats vs. Sroogies, Mehadrin vs. Hershey’s. These conflicts are narishkeit and can be satisfactorily settled with several focused conversations. The big questions in your potential marriage may not come up for another few years, specifically when children become part of the marital equation. You see, while you are both shomer mitzvos, Yiddishkeit is also about nuance and sensitivity – colloquially, the Fifth Shulchan Aruch. Because of your disparate religious backgrounds, you may lock horns regarding minhag vs. halacha. You may have different perspectives on the proper Shabbos vibe (spiritual or “just chilling”). Your husband may feel strongly about the superiority of co-ed day schools; you may insist on a yeshiva/Bais Yaakov education. If you feel he is The One, you and he may benefit from pre-engagement counseling with a frum therapist. In that forum, you can explore whether you and your partner share sufficient respect, maturity and flexibility to weather future differences – religious or otherwise.
The Mother
The Shadchan
Sarah Schwartz Schreiber, P.A. rom your letter, I gather you have gotten past the question, “Can a
Michelle Mond personally think that this generation, more than any gener-
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ation before, has such a difficult time with shidduchim because people are obsessed with “types.” “Is he yeshivish or shtark YU?” “Does he wear white shirts or blue shirts?” “Are his parents balabatish enough or more heimish?” In the generation of our grandparents and great-grandparents, they did not focus on such intricate details. The frum singles in those days, no matter how they would define themselves, would attend what my grandmother recounts as what was called, “The Agudah Night of Stars.” It was a kosher environment for frum singles to meet in person – no labels or types were written on name tags. So many people from that generation met from this event and are now the Yiddishe grandparents we emulate and love. From what you describe in your letter, your differences stem from the fact that you are from a more yeshivish background while he is from a more Young Israel-type of background. Your happiness with him will have nothing to do with the “type” he is as much as if you respect him, which, according to your letter, you do very much. Despite him coming from a more Young Israel background, do you agree on basic principles of halacha? Do you agree on certain basic core levels of frumkeit in which you would be comfortable raising kids? I am assuming since you have been seeing/speaking to him for quite some time those qualifications are compatible. Also, you must realize, there will be some differences – not just with him but with anyone you will
I personally think that this generation, more than any generation before, has such a difficult time with shidduchim because people are obsessed with “types.”
date – where you come to a compromise and work/grow together from differences you have. Focus more on questions like: do you respect him and does he respect you? Can you communicate concerns as they come up and does he respect your outlook? Are his core values compatible with your core values? Your relationship seems to be rich in the aspects of deep connection, good communication, strong respect, chemistry and menschlichkeit – things that I am sure you have found in your many years of dating are very hard to mutually come by. I wouldn’t be so quick to let this one go!
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.
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The Single Tova Wein
W
hen two people come together in marriage, the more ways in which they are compatible and basically believe they are on the same page in terms of beliefs, lifestyles and goals the more likely they will have a calm, comfortable, and happy marriage together. Obviously, no two people will ever totally match up and be completely compatible. Sometimes the differences are really almost silly in nature. She like long walks in the park, and he’s into tennis. She’s a social butterfly, and he prefers socializing as little as possible. These types of differences can be annoying and even the cause of strife, but with good communication skills and the ability to compromise, they can be easily resolved.
When it comes to hashkafa, however, the issues go so deep and really speak to an individual’s innermost core beliefs. It’s hard to compromise when you believe in something with all of your heart and cannot see making any adjustments to what you know in your heart to be true. Though it sounds as though you and the young man you’ve been seeing have much in common and a general good chemistry going on, these differences cannot be taken lightly. Therefore, though it’s impossible to cover every single potential issue that could arise as a result of your different hashkafas, it’s important that you do your very best to explore where you are both holding. Pick a typical milestone and a potential problem. For instance, you can bring up the issue of schools. If you’re thinking a Bais Yaakov is the way to go and he’s always had his heart set on a co-ed
Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
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encourage clients who are dating to have five “non-negotiables.” For most people, hashkafa makes it onto the list, which is completely understandable whether you are right wing or left, or somewhere in the middle. Your hashkafa sets the tone of your home. It’s the stage on which you will raise your children, how you will conduct the most intimate areas of your life, and even how you may spend Sunday mornings (will your son be in morning seder or will you be apple picking as a family at 10 am?). So, what happens when hashkafa has always been a non-negotiable but then life happens and you meet the most wonderful man (who does not share your hashkafa) who you are really connecting to? Does love really conquer all or is love not enough? Oftentimes, people do marry with different hashkafas. I have worked with some of these married couples. I have
seen those relationships that have figured out how to compromise and work around such differences. I have also worked with a handful of couples for whom the hashkafic differences caused tension and strife in the home, which, of course, affects the children – not only with regard to which shul to attend and which school to go to, but with regard to seeing their parents fight or keep each other at arm’s length. And then, I have also worked with those couples who entered their relationship with the same hashkafic values but over time grew and evolved their identities. Furthermore, I have seen firsthand, the beautiful, but often difficult, compromises spouses make with each other in order to keep the family unit in tact; sometimes for the couple’s sake but sometimes only for the children’s bene-
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school – could there possibly be a middle ground that doesn’t fully fulfill either of your dreams but both of you could live with without resentment? Or let’s look at a less monumental example. Let’s say he’s very into watching T.V., and the thought of bringing a T.V. into your house is something that you never dreamed of. What would that conversation look like? Could he come around and decide he doesn’t need a T.V. after all? Could you be comfortable with him having a small T.V. in a den and agree to keep it in a cabinet and only watch when it doesn’t affect you? You get the idea. When having these difficult conversations, see where it goes. Do either of you get upset, frustrated, angry, or defensive? Is compromise a possibility? Are you both so easygoing that nothing is more important than being together? They say that love can conquer all.
fit. And sometimes, the evolution of one spouse is simply too much to bear and the couple decides to go their separate ways. You may decide to go to couples’ therapy with your new beau to help you talk about your differences and help each of you figure out if you are comfortable moving forward. You will talk about your future, raising children, finances, etc. You will see if compromises can be reached. (I know that you are mature and ready to take on this man’s son, but you must remember that you would be his stepmother. You have absolutely no right or input as a stepmother to the hashkafa of his child. Will his child be in a co-ed school and your children be in a Bais Yaakov/yeshiva school?) As with any couple experiencing any differences, you want to be on the lookout for his and your ability to: -Compromise -Be respectful -Speak honestly and openly about feelings -Willingness to do the work: i.e., have these difficult conversations. Do not delay. Often, the answer to
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When it comes to hashkafa, however, the issues go so deep and really speak to an individual’s innermost core beliefs. Well, maybe that’s true – if you’re dealing with two people who are totally committed to doing whatever it takes to make it work. The two of you have a tremendous amount of talking to do!
our questions is found in the communication we have with our significant other. If you do take the therapy route, please make sure your therapist is neutral and is not “siding” with either one of you or “pushing” (encouraging) compromises or has any personal agenda to make it work or otherwise. Your therapist is there strictly to help the two of you figure it out for yourselves. This is very important. You must make this decision for yourself. He/she is there to give you the appropriate tools to make the decision. The time to have these conversations is now. All the best, Jennifer Mann Esther Mann, LCSW and Jennifer Mann, LCSW are licensed psychotherapists and dating and relationship coaches working with individuals, couples and families in private practice in Hewlett, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 516.224.7779. Press 1 for Esther, 2 for Jennifer. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email thenavidaters@ gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dr. Deb
Listening By Deb Hirschhorn, Ph.D.
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hadn’t eaten and it was pretty late. (This story, too, is made up.) But this session was important. I wanted to make sure this lovely, good, and kind person at the other side of the room would “get it.” He did not come in for a therapy session. Rather, he volunteered to see me to understand why his wife was dissatisfied with talking to him. As she had said, “I feel unheard.” Being a good person sometimes is not enough. When G-d let Adam know that He was about to create a companion for him, some translate the famous comment that G-d makes as, “It is not good for man to be lonely.” Being alone in and of itself is not a problem. Being lonely is. Sometimes being alone is the culprit; we want company. But sometimes, we can feel lonely when we are with other people. In fact, the presence of others can add incredibly to the loneliness – if we aren’t connecting. Feeling part of, belonging, being understood, are the conditions that chase away loneliness. I was telling this caring and concerned person that being a good person is not sufficient to repair the damage in the relationship. I explained that for the other person to feel good about the conversation, they would have to feel heard. Here are some rules of thumb that might help you when you want
another person to know you really are listening: • Repeat back what they said. I know this is a tired old technique, but I’m telling you, it works magic. Once I was thinking about making a purchase and the salesman listened to my point and then
response, it will appear that you are just trying to get it over with. It could feel dismissive. When you repeat back what they said slowly, it gives weight to their words and the thought that you put into trying to understand them. That’s a good feeling.
Deep consideration means sleeping on the question – or losing some sleep over it.
fed it back to me. “Yeah!” I exclaimed, “that’s exactly what I was thinking!” I’m telling you, that just felt great. Try it. • Don’t give advice. I know you assume they must want advice since they just complained to you for a half hour. And it is possible they actually do. But if you really want them to breathe a sigh of relief that you got it, you need to refrain from the advice. The advice could backfire: They could think that you’re a know-it-all, not the listener they need. • Speak slowly. If you rush your
• Make eye contact. When you avoid looking at someone directly, at least in Western societies, it implies a lack of interest, a lack of connection, a lack of self-confidence, or dishonesty, so you don’t want to do that. • Never act superior. The fact that this other person selected you to be the listener should make you feel good, even proud of yourself. But don’t allow your ego to get too big. Don’t say things that will put down the speaker; don’t be dismissive. Don’t say things like, “Okay,
come back and tell me what it is like ten years from now.” That implies they don’t have the answer and maybe will have it in 10 years – but you in your infinite wisdom have it now. You may not agree with what they are saying; you may even think it is 100% wrong. But if you say anything like that, you’ve not only lost the conversation, you’ve lost the relationship. • W hen you disagree, it isn’t necessary to say so. Many times, there is nothing lost by keeping your opinion to yourself. Think about it this way: The moment you feel compelled to voice your opinion, you are acting superior. Now you may be thinking, “What if I’m right?” My response to that is: Who says so? You? How do we really know if you are right? If you feel that way, it doesn’t make it so. Objectively, we don’t know you are right. • W hen it’s a matter of health, there is a way to handle it without violating the other rules. After you reflect back what the speaker said, if what they said makes you uncomfortable or worried about their health or wellbeing, you can say so. Being a listener does not mean you need to stifle your voice. Here’s how to say it: “I know you don’t want my advice so I
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won’t give it to you, but I have to tell you, I really feel torn between just being a support for you and also being very concerned about your health (or whatever the issue). I’m feeling really uncomfortable just listening and not saying anything.” This is a way of putting out a feeler as to whether the speaker will be able to hear your reaction. • Add qualifiers. If the speaker does want your input, to avoid being superior, say things like, “It seems to me,” or “I’m guessing that…” or “I could be wrong, but…” These things humanize you; they make you approachable. • Don’t psychoanalyze. It’s rude, unless you are a professional who is seeing a client. If it’s your wife, kids, grands, whatever, it’s rude. Once again, it puts you in the position of superiority, like you have all the answers and this poor neb doesn’t know anything. So the last thing you would want to offer, even if your opinion was sought out, is a bunch of psychobabble which you have because you got inside their head. No one can read minds. • Ask questions. If you really want to be a great listener, then when you are finished reflecting back what they said, or in the middle of doing so, you can ask a well-thought-out question. This shows you are deeply interested in what the other person is saying. When they respond with an answer, it helps them clarify their thoughts, it sheds more light on what they were saying so you are more likely to understand, and it conveys the idea that you are really thinking about what they’re saying. At the end of explaining all this to my lovely guest, he said, pleasantly, “Oh, I’m doing all that. I guess the whole thing must be my wife’s problem.” Nooooooo. So let’s add another bullet point: Do some real cheshbone hanefesh. Never, ever assume – without deep consideration – that you have nothing to learn. Deep consideration means sleeping on the question – or losing some sleep over it. Let it bother you just in case you might have some responsibility. We’re all
human; we all have something to learn. Being a listener is one of the greatest gifts you can give someone you love and care about. Do more
than go through the motions: do it right.
Dr. Deb Hirschhorn is a Marriage and
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Family Therapist. She can be reached at 646-54-DRDEB or by writing drdeb@drdeb.com.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Health & F tness
IBS Diet Guide By Aliza Beer MS, RD
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rritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an uncomfortable disorder characterized by dramatic changes in bowel movements. Some people experience diarrhea, while others have constipation. Cramps and abdominal pain are very common and can make everyday activities unbearable. Medical intervention is crucial in the treatment of IBS, but there are several diets that may improve the symptoms. Before embarking on any diet changes, please discuss your planned diet in detail with your physician. The following diets have been shown to reduce those uncomfortable symptoms and help people with IBS lead a healthier life. • High Fiber Diet: Fiber may improve constipation symptoms caused by IBS because it makes stool soft and easier to pass. Fiber is found in foods such as whole grain breads and cereals, beans, fruits, and vegetables. A healthy adult should try to consume between 22-34 grams of fiber a day. While fiber may help constipation, it may not reduce the abdominal discomfort or pain. In fact, some people with IBS may feel a bit more discomfort after adding more fiber to their diet. Add foods with fiber to your diet a little at a time to let your body get used to them. Too much fiber at once can cause gas, which can trigger other symptoms. Adding fiber to your diet slowly, about 2-3 grams a day, should
help prevent gas and bloating. • Low Fiber Diet: While fiber can help some people with IBS, increasing fiber intake may worsen symptoms if you frequently have gas and diarrhea. Before you completely eliminate fiber from your diet, try to reduce the amount of insoluble fiber and concentrate on consuming soluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water instead of adding extra bulk associated with insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber can be found in produce items, such as apples, pears, berries, carrots, and oatmeal. Common sources of insoluble fiber include whole grains, nuts, tomatoes, raisins, broccoli, and cabbage. Discuss with your physician possibly taking anti-diarrheal medication 30 minutes prior to eating foods with fiber to help reduce the effects. This can be helpful when eating in restaurants, at other people’s homes, or on the go. However, one should not make a habit out of it. • Gluten-free Diet: Gluten is a protein found in grain products such as bread, cereal, and pasta. The protein can damage the intestines in people who are gluten-intolerant. Some people with a sensitivity or intolerance to gluten also experience IBS. In such cases, a gluten-free diet may help reduce symptoms. Eliminate barley,
rye, and wheat from your diet to see if gastrointestinal problems improve. Have no fear; there are a number of gluten-free breads, cereals, and pastas in most supermarkets. •E limination Diet: An elimination diet focuses on avoiding certain foods for an extended period of time to see if your IBS symptoms improve. The International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders recommends cutting out these four common culprits: coffee, chocolate, insoluble fiber, and nuts. You should forgo any food you find suspect. Completely eliminate one from your diet for 12 weeks at a time. Note any differences in your IBS symptoms and move on to the next food on your list. • Low FODMAP diet: This is the most restrictive, yet most successful of all the diets for IBS. This diets limits very specific types of carbs, called “fermentable oligo-, di-, and monosaccharides, and polyols.” FODMAPs draw water into your digestive tract, which can make you bloated. If one eats too much of them, they can hang around the gut and ferment. The following are examples of high FODMAP foods that would need to be avoided: Anything made with wheat, barley, and rye; apples, pears, mangoes, artichokes, artificial sweeten-
ers, beans, cashews, pistachios, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, dried fruits, garlic, onions, high fructose corn syrup, honey, dairy products, mushrooms, and watermelon. Low FODMAP foods (foods you can eat), include: Almond, coconut, rice, or soy milks; bananas, bell peppers, carrots, cucumbers, potatoes, rice, quinoa, blueberries, grapes, tangerines, tomatoes, leafy greens, and oats. There are many other foods on the high and low lists. If you are interested in trying the low FODMAP diet then discuss it with your physician and a registered dietitian who can help you limit FODMAPs with a balanced diet that meets all of your nutritional needs. Certain diets and foods can help IBS, but everyone is different. Examine your symptoms and talk to your doctor before starting a new diet. Stay in tune with how your body reacts to certain foods, as you may need to tweak the foods you eat. Keep a daily food diary and make notes about your symptoms. Drink plenty of water and exercise regularly to help promote regularity and minimize IBS symptoms.
Aliza Beer is a registered dietician with a master’s degree in nutrition. She has a private practice in Cedarhurst, NY. Patients’ success has been featured on the Dr. Oz show. Aliza can be reached at alizabeer@gmail.com.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Health & F tness
The Pressure is On The impact of stress on our children and what we can do about it By Rachel Rosenholtz, LCSW
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n today’s fast-paced modern world, the experience of life is assaulted upon by a relentless barrage of stress and pressure. Mommy is rushing to get everyone out of the house. Mommy and Daddy are getting ready for work and I am hurriedly escorted out of my home onto the school bus. I arrive at school and spend the next seven to eight hours jumping from one subject to another. I have to keep my finger on the place and I am expected to learn, memorize and understand everything that is being taught the whole day. When I finally get home, I have so much homework to do and I need to study for two tests coming up in a few days...HELP! For children, there is no escape. At school the educational demands just keep rising. At home, too often there is tension. Many families are struggling financially and, more often than not, require dual salaries to makes ends meet. The forty-hour work week is all but dead as fulltime jobs demand more and more time. Being connected 24/7 exacerbates the problem even more. Responding to a work email at dinner can transform a wholesome family dinner into a distracted and disjointed affair. Quality time with children is being interrupted by the “oh so important” text or e-mail. Single parent households, with greater vulnerability to strain, are also on the rise. This is the current state of affairs in secular society. How do these issues play out in our communities and
schools? Our children attend schools with a dual curriculum and longer hours. Aside from keeping up with the standard of the Department of Education, our kids have to cope with mastering an additional curriculum comprising a full set of information, language, skills and more. Although this has always been the case in our communities, we should not take it for granted. We need to fully appreciate what an enormous weight this is on our children – in addition to the increased stress and pressure generally facing today’s kids. Our kids are under a lot of pressure. Stress has been identified as one of today’s leading health risks. Experts have been consistently warning us to take measures to reduce the stress in our lives. Stress causes all sorts of ailments, obesity, heart issues, and mental health problems just to name a few (google health risk of “too much stress” for the complete list) and that is in adults. Imagine what stress can do to children whose bodies and minds are still developing! Whatever children experience during these crucial early years of development will affect them for the rest of their lives. Adults are better positioned and have more at their disposal to mitigate the stress they encounter. If we have a job which is not working for us, we can take steps to address that and, if need be, try to find a different one. If we are dealing with a financial issue we can take action to try to better our circumstance. We have the
ability and awareness to take action. Children are not in such a position. For the most part they are powerless to change their situation. They depend on us. Are we doing our best for them? When a child’s stress manifests itself in mental health issues such as anxiety it is often recognized and treated through counseling. But what about the child who is experiencing chronic stress and anxiety, but is “managing” to the point that her anxiety is not really noticed by adults? She keeps the stress bottled up inside. Living like this becomes normal for her. Of course this is very unhealthy and her problems will likely manifest in physical problems or other emotional problems later on. According to National Institute of Mental Health, 25.1% of 13-18-yearolds suffered from an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. Given what we know about the detrimental emotional and physiological effects of stress and anxiety, that number is alarming. “Kids have loads of vacation during the year – that should be enough to give them their much needed R and R.” Such an argument is false. Once risk factors have been generated and unhealthy responses to stress have become part of a child’s psyche, problems will not just go away because the catalyst is no longer present. Habits that have been formed to cope with emotional issues and health problems that have manifested will not magically vanish because of win-
ter break. Mental health issues can become a way of life. Once a disorder has been triggered he or she will struggle with it until it has been addressed and straightened out. Mental and physical problems can also peak whenever a vacation is near its end in the anticipation of having to go back to school. Vacation from school does not save kids from stressful home situations that can exist either. Being aware of the long term detrimental effects of too much stress is the first step in addressing this issue. There are steps a parent can take to help mitigate some of the stress. A warm pleasant greeting when a child returns home from school will help ease some tension. A concerted effort to conduct more relaxed family dinners without interruptions will go a long way towards helping kids feel calmer and gives them the opportunity to talk about their day. Talking is a great way to relieve stress. Exercise is another source of stress relief. If a parent gets the sense that his or her child is stressed out, it is important to take the time to encourage him to talk about his feelings. Simply getting the chance to express himself and feel heard will be extremely helpful for him. Better yet is having someone who can help him strategize how to deal with whatever he is struggling with! If your child still seems to be too stressed out or struggling with anxiety, seeking profession intervention can be the best way to improve your child’s emotional and physical health. While stress in life for adults is at
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times unavoidable, being aware of the negative impact that stress can have on our children can help us as parents be more mindful about working to keep our own stress levels down. Children are emotional sponges. They absorb all the different emotions around them. If a parent is feeling stressed out, the child will absorb it and internalize some of the stress. Conversely, a child will absorb his parents calm feelings as well. Search for ways to reduce your own stress levels. Self-care is crucial to create a calmer environment in the home. I always remind parents that if the pressure drops in an airplane, you are supposed to put the mask on yourself before your child. If you’re not okay you won’t be able to help your child. The same is true here as well. If you are not taking care of yourself it is more difficult to adequately care for your child. If you are unable to reduce your own anxiety and tension, outside help may be warranted. Talking to someone outside your personal sphere can be helpful in identifying ways to
reduce your stress levels. Parents and schools are spending enormous sums of money to fix problems that are, in many cases, not intrinsic and unavoidable but
of our students in school and what can be dialed back? After hours sitting in the classroom, how much homework is really needed? Remember, for kids who have multiple teachers, ten to fif-
A concerted effort to conduct more relaxed family dinners without interruptions will go a long way towards helping kids feel calmer and gives them the opportunity to talk about their day.
rather due to changeable (however difficult they might be to change) home and education environment factors. What can we do to cut back on the stress on our kids? How can we ease the tension at home a little? What is truly necessary for the education and growth
teen minutes of homework per teacher really adds up. How can we achieve the necessary academic requirements while still protecting our children’s emotional and physical health? These are all questions that have to be answered on an individual level as every
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home and school situation is different. The yomim tovim are now behind us and we are embarking on the long stretch of winter and school. With winter comes more time spent indoors and less time engaging in stress-relieving outdoor activities such as bike riding, rollerblading, ball playing, etc. To support our kids through these months and in every aspect of their lives, we need to identify areas in life where pressure and stress can be reduced and eliminated. Our children’s health depends on it. Rachel Rosenholtz, LCSW is certified in TFCBT, a child-centered therapeutic approach that focuses on helping children overcome traumatic experiences. She has a private practice located in the Five Towns and specializes in treating anxiety, trauma and behavioral related issues in people of all ages. Rachel can be reached at (347) 673-1953 and Rachel@InvestInTherapy.com. To find out more, visit her website InvestInTherapy. com.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Health & F tness
My Child Has a Fever: What Do I Do? By Hylton I. Lightman, MD, DCH, FAAP
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he fear of parents when a child has fever often sends them into orbit, including paging the doctor in the middle of the night. The good news: Not always is a fever a fever. Read on. Here are five facts about fevers and kids. 1. No number on a thermometer requires a call to Hatzoloh or a trip to the Emergency Room. This includes even 104 degrees on a rectal thermometer. Kids do not maintain regular temperatures when sick because a fever is a normal, healthy way for the body to fight infection. If anything, a fever shows that the body is doing what G-d has intended it to do. Remember: Fever is not the body’s enemy. Bacteria and viruses are.
2. The severity of the fever does not always correlate with the severity of the illness. Simply put, a number on a thermometer is just a number and there is rarely a difference between a 100.3 degree and a 103.4 degree fever. Even febrile seizures – and they can be scary to watch – are not a reason to panic. Rather, you should be looking at signs of illness. Can he stay hydrated? Is he urinating regularly? How’s his level of activity? If you’re concerned about any of these three questions, then call your pediatrician. If it’s a first febrile seizure, it warrants evaluation. A 105 rectal temperature in a child under 2 years of age needs an assessment by a physician.
3. Fevers due to illness in a normal child will not cause brain or organ damage. Every normal brain has an internal “thermostat” that will prevent a person’s temperature from getting high enough to cause brain damage. Hyperthermia, or heat stroke, occurs rarely, i.e., when a person’s brain cannot regulate temperature well (as in a rare case of brain injury) or when the person is not able to cool himself (as in a closed car on a summer day.) Fever due to illness in a normal child will not cause organ damage. 4. We know fevers can make a child feel pretty lousy. In turn, the child can make the parents feel horrible. But
antipyretic (anti-fever) medications like Tylenol and Motrin do not get high temperatures back to normal. These medications help a child to feel less uncomfortable. If you choose to bring your child to the doctor because of the fever, please medicate them with Tylenol or Motrin prior to coming in so the doctor can conduct an exam that yields better information and is more pleasant for your child. 5. Dosing the Tylenol or Motrin correctly is essential. We dose according to weight, not according to age. Therefore, it’s important to keep a record of each child’s last weight done in the pediatrician’s office. Use the measuring device that often comes with the
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medication or some other kind of standard measuring instrument such as a syringe. Don’t waste time with half-doses; they don’t work. Always use medication judiciously. A sixth interesting fact: Teething often seems to be associated with a fever. What’s happening is the body’s metabolism speeding up, and then the teeth erupt. When should a child’s fever cause you to call your pediatrician? For babies younger than 2 months with a rectal temperature of 100.4 or more, fever is urgent. If this happens even in the middle of the night – again, you have taken the baby’s temperature with a rectal thermometer and it registers 100.4 degrees or greater – page your baby’s doctor immediately to let him/her know that your baby is younger than 2 months and has a fever. If you can’t reach your baby’s doctor, go to the emergency room
right away (you don’t need Hatzoloh for transport), even if it’s the middle of the night. Don’t give your baby any medicine to reduce fever unless the doctor advises it – you don’t want to mask any symptoms before your baby is examined.
bies don’t show signs of severe infection like older babies do and, G-d forbid, can developed full-fledged blood infections (sepsis) without displaying typical symptoms. If the doctor determines the fever is viral, there’s no need to wor-
Fever is not the body’s enemy. Bacteria and viruses are.
There are two reasons for the urgency. First, the protective layer of cells between the bloodstream and the central nervous system is very thin in young babies. This means that in bacterial infections, the bacteria can “cross over” and cause damage rapidly. Second, young ba-
ry about sepsis. But the problem is that it’s impossible to distinguish between a bacterial fever and a viral fever with just a physical exam. That’s why an infant with a fever may need blood, urine, X-rays, or stool tests to determine whether there’s a bacterial infection. (The
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exact tests ordered depend on your baby’s age and symptoms.) An infant with a fever may also need a spinal tap to test for meningitis, an uncommon but serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. If a fever persists longer than 7 days, then a thorough evaluation by the pediatrician is required to ascertain whether it’s an acute infection or possibly other infections, i.e., Kawasaki disease or autoimmune. Still have questions? Call the doctor. And always, stay cool.
Dr. Hylton Lightman is a pediatrician and Medical Director of Total Family Care of the 5 Towns and Rockaway PC. He can be reached at drlightman@ totalfamilycaremd.com, on Instagram at #dr.lightman_ or visit him on Facebook.
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home
In The K
tchen
Modern Israeli Salad By Naomi Nachman
Ever since I was a kid, I have always loved fresh salad. Continuing my tradition, I generally serve a fresh salad at dinner for my family. On Sunday nights, I usually cut up any leftover vegetables from Shabbat and make a giant salad so that on Monday morning, when I go food shopping, we get a fresh start. The vegetables are usually left over each week in varying amounts. As such, the recipe below has flexibility so that you can use any amount and variation of vegetables and still make it work well. I like to add a little protein to it too. If we are eating dairy on a particular Sunday night, I will throw some cheese into the salad. If we eat a meat meal, I will shred up and add some leftover Shabbat chicken.
Ingredients 3-4 tomatoes, chopped 4 Persian or greenhouse cucumbers, skin on, chopped ½ red onion chopped 1 can chickpeas, roasted ½ yellow pepper, diced 1 avocado, diced ½ cup crumbled feta ¼ cup assorted fresh herbs such as mint, parsley, cilantro For the dressing 1 whole lemon, juiced 2 tablespoon olive oil Kosher salt Ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon cumin ¼ teaspoon sumac
Preparation Chop and dice all vegetables into a bowl and add cheese on top. Mix the dressing ingredients together and pour over salad. Right before serving place a handful of fresh chickpeas in the center of the bowl as a garnish.
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 | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Notable Quotes “Say What?!”
Delta is hiring 1,000 new flight attendants, and it’s a very tough tryout. When pushing the beverage cart, you have to slam into at least 12 passengers’ knees. - Jimmy Fallon
I learned, myself – I had a brother, Fred – great guy, bestlooking guy, best personality – much better than mine. But he had a problem. He had a problem with alcohol, and he would tell me, “Don’t drink. Don’t drink.” He was substantially older, and I listened to him and I respected, but he would constantly tell me, “Don’t drink.” He’d also add, “Don’t smoke.” But he would say it over and over and over again. And to this day, I’ve never had a drink. And I have no longing for it. I have no interest in it. To this day, I’ve never had a cigarette. Don’t worry, those are only two of my good things. I don’t want to tell you about the bad things. There’s plenty of bad things too. - President Trump during his speech last week about taking on the drug epidemic
I better do it now. - Eila Campbell, age 94, of Williamsport, Penn., explaining to local TV why she spent her recent birthday skydiving
In the past two years, I have begun to observe Shabbat. During Shabbat I am completely cut off, there is no one to talk to, and I do not compromise about it. At first it felt like a tough assignment, but it gives me time with my children, my wife, my friends. Last week I had a crazy week in which I was flying and working a lot. On Friday morning we got up and said to each other, “We are ready for Shabbat.” Shabbat arrives, we light candles, relax, friends come over, we eat a meal that we cooked beforehand. We are cut off from the rest of the world, but in reality connecting with each other. I spend more time than I ever did with my family and even phone and see my mother more. And the real magic is that the more I do it, the more successful the company is. Go figure. - Adam Neumann, who founded WeWork, which is valued at $20 billion, in a recent interview with Yediot Aharonot
Amazon is introducing a new service called Amazon Key, which will allow deliverymen to open your front door and put packages directly inside your house. I don’t have a joke here. I just wanted to tell you how you’re going to be murdered. Sleep tight, folks. - James Corden
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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There is a major scandal in the world of the Iditarod. It turns out some of the dogs in the race are on drugs. Dogs belonging to the four-time musher tested positive for a banned substance. Officials became suspicious when one of the dogs stood on its hind legs and lifted the sled over its head in celebration. - Jimmy Kimmel
We can’t have the inmates running the prison. - Houston Texans owner Bob McNair at a closed-door meeting of NFL owners who gathered to discuss players protesting racial inequality during the national anthem, resulting in most of the Texans kneeling during the National Anthem last Sunday
It is wonderful to be at a World Series again.
It has taken me a full year to integrate the reality of him being a president in a way that I don’t come across as either so full of rage that no one can hear my words, or so sad that I can’t articulate the level of pain. It’s taken a year for me to get my equilibrium back, to come back up to the surface, to really go, “Okay, every Monday is the hope that this is the last week” – and every Friday is a devastation. There are people who tell me, “Oh, it’s going to be another year, another two years,” and I seriously worry whether I personally will be able to live through [his presidency] and whether the nation will be able to live through it and survive. - Rosie O’Donnell, in an interview with W Magazine
– Norman Loyd, age 102, who attended Game 1 of the World Series for the first time since he last attended a World Series game in 1925 and watched Babe Ruth play, in an interview with the LA Times
An ordinary person would call time out and get a new pair. Not the Babe. He stood up, on the base, hands on his hips, surveyed the crowd and stood there while they sewed him up. - Ibid., recalling what happened when Ruth split his pants sliding into second base
I will say what I believe: the Balfour Declaration was indispensable to the creation of a great nation. In the seven decades since its birth, Israel has prevailed over what has sometimes been the bitter hostility of neighbours [sic] to become a liberal democracy and a dynamic hi-tech economy. In a region where many have endured authoritarianism and misrule, Israel has always stood out as a free society. Like every country, Israel has faults and failings. But it strives to live by the values in which I believe. - England’s Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, writing in the Daily Telegraph ahead of the centenary of the Balfour Declaration, in an article which also advocated returning to the indefensible 1967 borders
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
WE ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE NEW SHIUR BY RABBI SHAIS TAUB FOR THE GREATER 5 TOWNS COMMUNITY ON THE
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IKKARIM שלשה עשר עקרים The Rambam's 13 Principles of Faith
DETAILS: THURSDAYS SHIUR: 9:00 PM | MAARIV: 9:45 PM LOCATION: 355 MARLBOROUGH RD., CEDARHURST LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED. The weekly shiur will begin Thursday, November 2nd and will beginning Perek Aleph studying directly from the text. Seforim will be provided for the attendees.
RABBI TAUB Is a world renowned author and lecturer who has delivered Torah lectures to audiences on six continents. He writes a popular weekly column in Ami Magazine and is the author of the bestselling book, G-d of Our Understanding: Jewish Spirituality and Recovery from Addiction as well as several groundbreaking works on Tanya including: the Tanya Map teaching tool, the Soul Maps curriculum, and the audio series Mapping the Tanya. He currently serves as scholar-in-residence at Chabad of the Five Towns in Cedarhurst, NY.
The shiur is dedicated l’zecher nishmas Tzvi Yehoshua ben Abba and Shalom Maier ben Rav Menachem Mendel Yichezkal Haleivi.
SHIUR COMMITTEE: AARON GORIN, MENACHEM POZNANSKI, ELI SCHREIBER, YOCHANAN GORDON AND DONNY SCHICK IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CHABAD OF THE FIVE TOWNS FOR MORE INFO ABOUT THE SHIUR AND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CALL (718) 288 - 8434
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NOVEMBER 2, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
I guess you have really arrived when your brief suspension on Twitter is national news. - Roger Stone, a prominent Trump associate, after being guess“threatening” you havetweets to CNN suspended by Twitter for Isending personalities over the weekend really arrived
when your brief suspension on Twitter is national news. - Roger Stone, a prominent Trump associate, after being suspended by Twitter for sending “threatening” tweets to CNN personalities over the weekend
Today when he was talking to reporters, Trump said he has “one of the greatest memories of all time.” Then Trump said, “And if you don’t believe me, ask my sons — Derek and Ron Jr. And my daughter, Girl Donald.”
Happy Birthday, Madame President @HillaryClinton. - Rep. John Lewis’s (D-GA) happy birthday tweet to the losing 2016 presidential candidate last week
- Jimmy Fallon
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The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Open House Motzei Shabbos November 11, 2017 23 Cheshvan 5778 8:00pm
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I cannot believe the media produced such beautiful children. How the media did this, I don’t know. - President Trump joking when the children of the White House press corps visited him in the Oval Office this week
The vast majority of Hasidic Jews were exterminated in the Holocaust partly because they refused to blend in. They kept wearing the clothing, they were sort of “loud and proud” about their identity, and the vast majority died in the Holocaust. - Non-Jewish filmmaker Heidi Ewing, who recently produced a negative Netflix documentary about the Satmar community, in an interview with Charlie Rose
Historians say that if Prince Harry marries his girlfriend Meghan Markle it will be groundbreaking for the British royal family. Not because Markle’s of mixed race, but because they’re not related. – Conan O’Brien
Saudi Arabia yesterday became the first country in the world to grant citizenship to a robot. Oh, please, we made one vice president. - Seth Myers
Campaigns engage in opposition research all the time. - Former Hillary Clinton Press Secretary Brian Fallon’s reaction on CNN to the report that the Clinton campaign funded anti-Trump research that involved the Russians
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Political Crossfire
Might Xi Jinping’s Star be Burning too Bright? By David Ignatius
P
resident Xi Jinping’s command at this month’s Communist Party gathering was so complete that President Trump likened him to a “king.” But some China analysts are wondering whether Xi has overreached. Xi dominated the stage, literally and figuratively, at the party’s 19th Congress, which ended this week in Beijing. His consolidation of power has nearly erased the collective leadership style of his recent predecessors and vaulted him into a Chinese pantheon occupied only by Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. “Xi Jinping Thought” is now celebrated as the guide to a “new era” for China. Xi’s capture of the commanding heights was summarized in a private report by Pamir Consulting, a leading advisory firm on China. During Xi’s first five years in office, Pamir reported, his anti-corruption campaign has disciplined 1.53 million party members and prosecuted 278,000, including 440 ministerial or provincial officials and 43 Central Committee members, about 11.4 percent of that body. Xi has purged the Chinese military, too. Under his rule, 13,000 officers have been sacked and more than 50 general officers have been imprisoned for corruption, by Pamir’s count. In place of the ousted generals, Xi has installed new commanders for the joint staff, army, navy and air force of the People’s Liberation Army. Members of this reshaped PLA now appear to control nearly 20
percent of the party’s reconstituted Central Committee. Xi also reigns supreme in the factional battle at the top of the party leadership. Of the 25 members of the Politburo, 17 are his allies, Pamir estimates. His faction has four seats on the Politburo’s seven-member standing committee. And for the first time in several decades, the leadership hasn’t signaled who will succeed Xi after he completes his second five-year term as party secretary, suggesting that he may ignore
worry older Chinese who remember the damage done by Mao’s cult of personality. “Beneath the confetti, there’s an uncomfortable apprehension among some of China’s elderly leaders who recall the capriciousness and brutal realities of one-man rule,” explains Kurt Campbell, who ran the State Department’s Asia policy during the Obama administration and was in Beijing to observe the congress. Will other top Chinese officials dare to question Xi? Analysts noted
“Beneath the confetti, there’s an uncomfortable apprehension”
the 10-year limit that capped recent Chinese leaders. Trump appears to see a kindred spirit in Xi. He made a congratulatory telephone call Wednesday and praised Xi’s “extraordinary elevation” in a tweet. “Some might call him the king of China,” Trump said in a television interview. What could go wrong for a leader with such sweeping authority? Several leading analysts argue that Xi’s dominance is now so complete that it carries a kind of vulnerability. He owns China’s economic and foreign policies so totally that he’ll get blamed for any setbacks. Perhaps more important, his power play may
the mostly impassive posture during Xi’s long speech from Jiang Zemin and Zhu Rongji, former president and prime minister, respectively. The gathering wasn’t attended by Li Rui, a deeply respected 100-year-old former secretary of Mao who suffered during the Cultural Revolution and helped establish the institutions of post-Mao collective leadership. Xi’s concern about dissent was perhaps signaled by a recent internal party document that, according to a Chinese source, warns against criticism of party leadership, Communist history, traditional Chinese culture and national heroes. That implies a ban on criticism of Xi himself.
The scope of Xi’s ambition isn’t just domestic or personal power. He outlined at the congress an agenda for China’s growth through 2050 into a “modernized strong country” that can dominate technology, finance and security. China five years ago spoke of its ambitions to be a regional power, but Xi now describes a China that can frame a new global order. Trump’s America poses a tricky problem. For now, Xi chooses to reciprocate Trump’s embrace. China is planning for Trump’s arrival next month as if it’s a royal visit, much as the Saudis received him last May. An elaborate welcoming ceremony is planned, perhaps followed by a photogenic meeting of Xi’s grandchildren and Trump’s. (Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump are said to be coming with their family.) The “deliverables” at the Trump2Xi summit will be mutual commitments on North Korea and trade. To oversee the Sino-America account, Xi is said to be readying Yang Jiechi, a former ambassador to Washington, as deputy prime minister with oversight of foreign policy. Chinese strategists have traditionally argued that it’s wise to appear less powerful than you really are, and take adversaries by surprise. This approach is no longer possible for a monarchical Xi. He must beware the weakness inherent in his dazzling display of strength.
(c) 2017, Washington Post Writers Group
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Political Crossfire
Everything Russia Heats Up The Indictment of Trump’s Former Campaign Chairman and the Growing Scandals Around Hillary Clinton By Susan Schwamm
Manafort's being brought down. But Trump was never named
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fter months of operating in secrecy, Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller last Monday announced the indictment by a federal grand jury of President Trump’s one-time campaign chairman Paul Manafort and his business partner Richard Gates. The 12-count indictment pertains to the pair’s activities between 2006 and 2015. Manafort was charged with acting on behalf of the Ukrainian government without registering as a foreign agent, which is required by law, and laundering over $18 million of his $75 million earnings. Additionally, the pair was charged with lying to investigators about their business dealings. Absent from the indictment was any mention of Russian collusion or the Trump campaign. In fact, the activities Manafort engaged in took place well before he joined the Trump campaign in April of 2016. While Manafort’s indictment
sheds no direct light on the state of Mueller’s investigation into the Trump campaign’s “collusion with Russia,” Monday’s events whipped the media and Washington into a frenzy. To some, the fact that Mueller’s
ing with Russia. Indicting Manafort on unrelated crimes, they speculate, was the best he can come up with; after all, he would look foolish if he didn’t come up with anything. Others argue that Mueller is using the often-used prosecutorial
In the ever-peeling onion of all-thingsRussia, there is even a more serious allegation involving Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and the Democrats that is only now coming to the surface.
first actions have nothing to do with the Trump team and Russia indicates that Mueller has been unable to find any evidence of Trump collud-
tactic of indicting one individual on any charges you can in order to get the goods on another investigation – in this case, they say, he indicted
Manafort in order to “flip” him on Trump and get him to spill the beans on the full scheme of purported Russian collusion. The indictment of Manafort did not come as a surprise to many. In fact, he was fired from the Trump campaign in August 2016, after serving for only three months, when it was disclosed that he had extensive dealings with the Ukrainian government, allegedly accepted millions in cash payments, and failed to disclose his lobbying, as required by law – practically the same wrongdoings he was indicted for. The suspicion that Mueller’s investigation was focusing on Manafort was confirmed in July when the FBI conducted an early morning raid on Manafort’s home and seized documents and computers. Manafort and Gates pleaded not guilty to all charges on Monday afternoon. He was freed on $10 million bond and placed on house arrest. As they exited the federal court house, Manafort’s attorney Kevin
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Downing lent support to an earlierin-the-day tweet by President Trump that these unrelated charges prove that there was no collusion and stated, “President Donald Trump was correct. There is no evidence the Trump campaign colluded with the Russia government.” He added, regarding the charge that Manafort failed to register as a foreign agent that “the United States government has only used that offense six times since 1966 and only resulted in one conviction,” insinuating that Mueller is simply trying to stick charges on Manafort in order to put pressure on him. Shortly after the indictment was announced, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders told reporters, “Today’s announcement has nothing to do with the president, and has nothing to do with the president’s campaign, or his campaign activity.” lthough the White House’s everything-is-cool-here attitude was likely justified as it pertains to the Manafort indictment, Special Prosecutor Mueller evidently was not going to allow the day to end without flexing his Russian collusion muscles. To that end, his office made a bombshell announcement that in early October a former Trump campaign advisor secretly pleaded guilty to making false statements to federal agents about contacts with Russian nationals in order to get “dirt” on Hillary Clinton. The advisor, George Papadopoulos, age 30, has reached a cooperation agreement with Mueller. The media was swiftly abuzz with speculation that he will be the lynchpin to tie the Russian collusion story together. Much like the Manafort indictment, though, although the guilty plea of a Trump advisor certainly provides much smoke, a review of the official statement of offense unsealed in court makes it hard to find the fire. Perhaps that’s by design (a good prosecutor does not show his cards in advance). Perhaps that’s because there is no fire (a good prosecutor makes it look like he “has the goods” even when he doesn’t). According to the official Statement of Offense, Papadopoulos was interviewed by the FBI last January in the course of its Russian collusion
investigation before it was handed off to Special Prosecutor Mueller. During his interview, he spoke about his attempts to set up a diplomatic meeting between then-candidate Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin in order to enhance cooperation between the U.S. and Russia. This is a fairly routine assignment. In furtherance of those efforts, he was in contact with a Russian professor and a female who claimed to be a relative of Putin. Despite extensive back and forth, the meeting never took place. In the course of those discussions, the Russian professor men-
a cooperating individual. And the media has a Trump campaign official who tried to get dirt on Hillary from the Russians, i.e. colluded with Russia. ronically, last week the Washington Post reported that Hillary Clinton and the Democrat National Committee paid a Kremlin-related Russian firm millions of dollars to dredge up dirt on Donald Trump. The research resulted in the infamous and much discredited 35page “Trump Dossier” which had the look of an official government intelligence report and is filled with sa-
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“Nothing to look at here,” say the Clintons regarding Uranium One
tioned that he had “dirt” on Hillary. According to the court documents, nothing ever came of Papadopoulos’ efforts. So what did he do wrong? Well, while talking to the FBI he stated that his first contact with the Russian professor and the female took place before he had an official role in the Trump campaign, but, in fact, those contacts first took place after he had an official role. As such, he misrepresented the timeline to the FBI. If you are waiting for the punchline – you missed it. According to the court papers, that is the entirety of what Papadopoulos did wrong. He was charged with one count of lying to the FBI. Although this may seem like a small offense, as far as investigations are concerned, Mueller does now have
lacious lies about Trump’s activities in Russia. In other words, Hillary Clinton colluded with Russians to get dirt on Trump. After the explosive report, Hillary denied knowing about paying for the dossier and blamed it on a law firm that she hired to conduct opposition research for her. Hillary’s explanation led the normally pro-Hillary New York Times to incredulously note, “Officials from the Clinton campaign and the D.N.C. have said they were unaware that [the law firm] Perkins Coie facilitated the research on their behalf, even though the law firm was using their money to pay for it.” In the ever-peeling onion of allthings-Russia, there is even a more serious allegation involving Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and the
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Democrats that is only now coming to the surface. In 2010, the Obama administration approved the sale of a uranium mining company, Uranium One, to Russia. The deal had to be approved by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, a committee that is composed of representatives from several U.S. government agencies, including the State Department, which at the time was led by Hillary Clinton. According to a report by The Hill last week, the FBI at some point became aware that Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin unleashed an influence campaign designed to win access to Hillary Clinton, her husband Bill Clinton, and members of their inner circle. Russian efforts at the time included having a spy try and penetrate Democrat donor ranks and paying Bill Clinton $500,000 for a single speech in Moscow. During the same time period, more than $140 million was donated to the Clinton Foundation by Uranium One board members and associates. The scandal, commonly called “Uranium One,” has gained traction in recent days because the Justice Department last week lifted a gag order on a former FBI informant involved in a high-profile Russia bribery case, clearing the individual to speak to Congress about Moscow’s Obama-era uranium deals in the U.S. market and other schemes. Congressional committees are now investigating Uranium One. During the second debate of the 2016 presidential campaign, Hillary Clinton ridiculed Donald Trump for refusing to unequivocally state that he would accept the outcome of the 2016 elections. After her jaw dropping loss on Election Day, the tables turned and she questioned the outcome of the elections. Within days Hillary and her minions spun a narrative about Trump and Russian collusion. Is it possible that it is true? Although it has been a year and there has not been a shred of public evidence, technically it is possible, albeit unlikely. But, perhaps, the greatest irony of all is that once again the tables seem to be turning and every day there seems to be more evidence of Russian collusion on the part of Hillary Clinton. Go figure.
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Forgotten Her es
Jewish Doctors in the Civil War By Avi Heiligman
Dr. Issachar Zacharie was President Lincoln's podiatrist
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esearching Jewish soldiers who served during the American Civil War is as tough as finding information on most Medal of Honor winners in the 19th century. Jewish doctors, on the other hand, were more prevalent during the war as it seems that there were more Jewish doctors per capita then in proportion to the regular population. While the medicine and procedures were rudimentary many Jewish doctors were prominent during the bloodiest conflict on American soil. Jewish doctors and surgeons served on both sides during the Civil War and were highly regarded in the military. Phineas J. Horwitz was one of the more prominent Jewish doctors of his time. Born in Baltimore in 1822 he studied at the University of Maryland and had a brief stint in the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. In 1847 he was appointed assistant surgeon in the navy, which was the lowest of three medical officer ranks in the navy. American forces were in middle of the Mexican-American War at the time, and Horwitz was sent there on a ship. After the fighting he was appointed the head of an American naval hospital in Mexico where he earned praise for his work. For the next twelve years he was stationed on several ships that were sent to destinations worldwide. Two years before the Civil War Dr. Horwitz was stationed in Washington as a surgeon in the Bureau of Medicine in Surgery. The war broke out in 1861, and Surgeon Horwitz continued his work in Washington. Soon he was promoted to lieutenant
commander, and a couple of months after the war had ended, in 1865, was appointed as chief of the bureau. In his four years as the chief, he recognized the lack of organization among the doctors and the records-keeping department. Horwitz went to great lengths to have this rectified and eventually this helped many families who had been searching for loved ones that had gone missing during the war. Not all doctors served on the battlefield during the Civil War, as was the case with British-born chiropodist Issachar Zacharie. His medical background was a bit in the gray area but he was a flamboyant foot doctor
Proclamation, Lincoln wrote a testimonial for the doctor and soon wrote to Major General Nathaniel Banks, “He might be of service, to you, first, in his peculiar profession and secondly as a means of access to his countrymen who are quite numerous in some of the localities you will probably visit.” Banks was the commander of the soon-to-be captured New Orleans, and Lincoln needed a spy to learn of the population’s attitude towards the north. Zacharie was chosen and reported back information on all enemy activity. He also set up a local spy ring made up of Jewish residents and helped them obtain extra food and medicine.
He also set up a local spy ring made up of Jewish residents and helped them obtain extra food and medicine.
(today the profession is known as podiatry and does require a medical degree from an upstanding institution to practice in the U.S.). Many prominent Americans including Secretary of War Edward Stanton and Secretary of State William Steward came knocking for his services to cure foot ailments. Soon the commander in chief, President Lincoln, wrote three testimonials for Zacharie who helped him ease his foot pain. The day of the Emancipation
At one point Zacharie was sent by Lincoln to see if the Confederate government was ready to negotiate peace. He passed through Union lines and went to Richmond to meet with the rebel leaders including the highest ranking Jew in the Confederacy, Judah P. Benjamin. A plan was devised during this meeting but was vetoed in Washington (the details of the plan are a bit vague but they involved the Confederates taking over Mexico!).
During the war there was talk in Washington about Lincoln’s positive attitude towards the Jews and the idea of creating a Jewish homeland (this was in the 1860s). The story goes that the president commented, “I myself have regard for the Jews. My chiropodist is a Jew…and he has so many times ‘put me on my feet,’ that I would have no objection to giving his countrymen ‘a leg up.’” Zacharie’s dream of creating a chiropody corps in the army never happened but he continued helping soldiers with foot problems throughout the war. The total number of Jews fighting for the Confederacy is estimated at 3,000. For a while the top doctor in the Confederate Army was a Sephardic Jew named David Camden De Leon. The South Carolina native earned his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania and joined the army in 1838 as an assistant surgeon. He served during the Second Seminole War (1835-1842) with distinction and remained in the western part of the U.S. on army bases for several years. During the Mexican-American War, De Leon was present at many of the war’s important battles. On two occasions at the Battle of Chapultepec he led a charge of cavalry after the commanding officer had been killed or wounded. Known as “The Fighting Doctor,” De Leon was given two congressional citations and promoted to major with the title of surgeon. A major dilemma for many Southern officers in the Ameri-
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
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can Army in early 1861 was which side to join. De Leon was opposed to secession but decided that he couldn’t fight against fellow North Carolinians and therefore joined the Confederacy. Realizing that De Leon brought a lot to the table with regards to medicine, the Confederate Army made him its first surgeon general. However, he only held the position for a few weeks and was appointed medical director of the Army of Northern Virginia. That too didn’t last long, and by 1862 he left the army. Nathan Mayer was born in Bavaria (part of Germany) and moved to the U.S. when he was ten. For two and half years he studied medicine in several countries and returned to the U.S. in 1862. Mayer was commissioned as an assistant surgeon in the 11th Connecticut Infantry Regiment and was stationed in North Carolina. In 1863 he became the surgeon major of the 16th Connecticut Infantry Regiment where he was
Dr. David Camden De Leon was called the 'Fighting Doctor'
captured and interred by the Confederates. Upon his release he became a medical purveyor for Union soldiers in North Carolina. There is one account that he was promoted to brigadier general after leaving Confederate prison but there isn’t much evidence to back this claim.
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Dr. Phineas J. Horwitz
There are several more Jewish doctors and medical personnel in the military who served on the battlefield. Captain Morris Asch was aide-de-camp for Union Major General Pope and held the title of assistant surgeon. Prussian-born Simon Baruch studied medicine in
the South before joining the Confederate Army in 1862. For the next three years he served as a surgeon and was captured twice – once at South Mountain and the other at Gettysburg. Later he wrote an essay entitled, “Bayonet Wounds” about military surgery. Later Baruch became famous for his work pioneering surgery of appendicitis among other distinctions. Maximilian Heller was also a surgeon in the Union Army. Doctors and surgeons became revered for their efforts to save many lives that would have been lost from battlefield injuries and diseases. These Jewish medical professionals certainly helped the cause of humanity while serving both sides during the Civil War. 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.
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Classifieds SERVICES 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 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
HOUSES FOR SALE WOODMERE: CHOICE PROPERTIES • 316 Longacre Ave. $999,999 Location, Location, Location. Low Taxes • 1075 Cedar Lane $449,999 Best Value in town. 4BR • 302 Longacre A3 $118,000 Jr. 4, First Floor, Walk all locations C. Slansky BROKER 516-655-3636 HEWLETT: 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
HOUSES FOR SALE
COMMERCIAL RE
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
VALLEY STREAM 2800 SQ. FT. Bright and recently renovated office space available for rent, 7 Private offices, large conference room, beautiful break area with kitchenette Rent plus one month security required. For lease by owner $3000 per month Call - 516-791-1800 ext. 110
Can’t afford your property taxes? Mortgage? Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available!
CEDARHURST: 3 FAMILY HOME, 5BR, 3.5BA 2 Car Garage, Great Investment, Close To All…$699K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com LAWRENCE: NEW LISTING Very Large Split Level Home, Prime Location, 9BR, 5 Full Baths, Lot Size 103 x 118, Eik, Formal DR, Den W/Fplc & Sauna…$1.199M Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com WOODMERE: NEW LISTING Charming CH Colonial, 3BR, 2.5 Baths, Eik, Formal DR, Full Fin Basement, 2 Det Garge, Enclosed Porch Back Patio, CAC, SD#14…$649K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
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 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
5 TOWNS: LOOKING FOR: Orthodotist, Podiatrist, Chiropractor, Physical Therapist, Dentist, or Obstetrician, Gynecologist. Professional Spaces Available in Hewlett, Lynbrook, Valley Stream area. For Lease... Call for More Details Broker (516) 792-6698
COMMERCIAL RE FAR ROCKAWAY: 8,600SF DayCare/School Available, Various Classrooms, Offices, Multi-Purpose Room, Kitchenette & Bathrooms, Ready to Go!!! For Lease …Call For More Details Broker (516) 792-6698 ISLAND PARK: 1,400+/-SF Storefront with Office Space and Kitchenette in Rear, 3 Parking Spots + Municipal Parking, Great Location, For Lease …Call Sean for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com LYNBROOK: 725 +/- SF Commercial Co-Op, Any Professional Use, Waiting Room, Exam Rooms, Lab, Reception, Consultation, Can be Fully Furnished, For Sale … Call for More Details Broker (516) 792-6698
EAST ROCKAWAY: 1,500+/-SF Office Space in Professional Elevator Bldg W/Full Bsmt & Ample Parking, 3 Private Offices, Conference Rm, Bullpen & Reception Area, For Lease… Call for More Details Broker (516) 792-6698
355 Central Avenue, Lawrence NY 11559 (Across the street from Seasons)
P: 516.791.6100 | F: 516.374.7059 www.WeissmanRealty.com
LAWRENCE/FAR ROCKAWAY Sunny Junior 4 in Beautiful Co-op Building. Renovated Kitchen & Bath, Hardwood Floors. Elevator, Doorman, and Laundry. Asking $265,000 Call Melissa 347-757-0224
FAR ROCKAWAY APARTMENT RENTALS
OFFICES FOR LEASE Far Rockaway
Cornaga location, 3 to 4 offices, plus bthrm. Good for doctor, dentist or business. $1900 Call Sherri 516-297-7995
Cedarhurst
Single rooms or executive suites. All utilities included. Starting at $400. Call Sherri 516-297-7995
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Legal 3 Family, 5BR, Spacious 2BR, 2BA, Eik, 3BR Cape, Fin Bsmt, Charming 3BR CH Col, Great Investment..$699K 1st Flr, Parking..$2,650/mo SD#14,Near All..$525K Porch,Bsmt,SD#14..$649K
HEARD IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Turn Clocks Back Nov 5 @ 2am The New York City Marathon - Sunday New From Ground Up, Very Lg Split Level, 9BR, Nov 5 @ 9:50am 2BR,Near All..$1,950/mo Lot Size 103x118..$1.199M Email Carol at cbraunstein@pugatch.com for any special announcements or events.
Carol Braunstein
Susan Pugatch
(516) 592-2206
295-3000
Call or Text
cbraunstein@pugatch.com
(516)
www.pugatch.com
spugatch@pugatch.com
H E W L E T T: 59 Berwick Rd (12-1:30)$525K MASSAPEQUA: 20 E Walnut St (12-1:30)$329K WOODMERE: 1075 Highland Pl (12-1:30)$649K
Free Standing Building W/Parking High Visibility, Excellent Signage Great Location Mins from the Mall Call Ian Leigh For More Details!!!
1,500+/- SF 1st Flr Suite Ample On-Site Parking All Utilities Included!!! Call For More Details
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Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 COMMERCIAL RE
APT FOR RENT
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
VALLEY STREAM: 1,200+/-SF Office Space, 2nd Floor Walk-Up, features Kitchenette, 3 Small Offices, Conference Room and 2 Bathrooms, Great Location, For Lease … Call Paul for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
CEDARHURST: Fabulous & Very Spacious 2BR, 2Fbth, Storage Units, Close To All...$2,650/mo Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
LANDER COLLEGE FOR MEN, A DIVISION OF TOURO COLLEGE IN KEW GARDENS HILLS, IS SEEKING AN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT. Must have a Bachelor’s Degree and 2 years administrative experience, be well organized and have MS Office expertise. Please fill out an application and send your cover letter and resume through the following link. http:// touro.peopleadmin.com/postings/1895
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.
CO-OP FOR SALE 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 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
APT FOR RENT CEDARHURST: NEW LISTING 2BR, 2BA In 2 Family House, Eik, LR, DR, Washer/Dryer, Very Close To All, Great Location...$2,500/mo Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
FAR ROCKAWAY: Bungalow - New from the Ground Up, Roof, Siding, Eik, 2BR, Near All…$1,950/mo. Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com PROPERTY OFFER BRAND NEW 1 BEDROOM APT FOR RENT IN FAR ROCKAWAY For Rent By Owner, No Brokerage Involved. Brand new 1 bedroom apartment for rent in Far Rockaway. Brand new construction - new bathroom, new kitchen, new flooring, new walls, washer/dryer hookup. Central location near White Shul/Reads Lane. Asking $1250 - includes utilities. Please call 917-860-5762 for more information. 2 BEDROOM APARTMENT IN FAR ROCKAWAY (Near BBY) on 2nd floor in a 3 story house. Kosher Kitchen. Call 516-225-4558. Available immediately. Short or long terms OK
REAL ESTATE MANAGER R.E. Management Co. in Bklyn seeking capable & hard working individual . NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY Pls email resume to REALTY@CGMAIL.NET (Pls enter resume in subject) or fax to 718-851-3511 SECRETARY Real Estate Management office in Boro Pk is seeking a F/T Secretary with gd phone manner, able to multi task & have computer knowledge. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Pls email resume to REALTY@CGMAIL.NET (Pls enter resume in subject) or fax to 718-851-3511
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 F/T & P/T REGISTERED NURSE openings to work with adults who have developmental disabilities within residential settings in Brooklyn, Manhattan, or Long Island. Current NYS RN, min 2 years hospital experience. OHEL: 855-OHEL JOB, www.ohelfamily.org/careers
CEDARHURST
WOODMERE
Bright, spacious 3br 2.5bth hi ranch w/ beautiful yard. Fantastic location, close to park, shopping, train. Miri (646)515-8813. $3500/month
New exclusive! 3br 2.5bth colonial with large EIK, den, finished basement. Call Bryna (516)322-4831 $799K
LAWRENCE
LAWRENCE
Beautiful and updated 1-3br rentals available. Call Bryna (516) 322-4831. $2000-$2900/month
Gut-renovated colonial w/ 4bdms on 1 level. New EIK, hardwood floors. Large yard with deck. Call Bryna (516)322-4831 $729K
WOODMERE
WOODMERE
New exclusive! Completely renovated 6br 5.5 bth colonial in prime location. Top of the line updates. Call Chana (516) 449-9692 $1.85M
Magn 6bd, 4bth col on quiet cul-de-sac. Completely updated, beautiful prpty. Call Bruria (718) 490-7791 $1.379M or $6500/month
LAWRENCE
CEDARHURST
Rental Exclusive! 4br 3bth colonial. $3,200/m
2br 1.5bth completely renovated duplex. Use of yard and driveway included. Call Miri 646-515-8813 $2450/month
The Jewish Home | NOVEMBER 2, 2017
Classifieds
classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com text 443-929-4003
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
Local F.T. Accounting Office Seeks P/T JR. ACCOUNTANT proficient in Q.B. knowledge of payroll tax, sales tax, business tax and individual taxes Qualified applicants should please e-mail resume to: 5towntaxoffice@gmail.com
CATAPULT LEARNING Teachers, 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 ASSISTANT MORAH Looking for a heimish, post-high school girl to work as a warm and loving assistant Morah in a 2 year old Far Rockaway playgroup. Hours are 9-3 (12:00 Friday). Alternatively, 2 assistants: 9-12 and 12-3. Competitive pay, vacation, and sick days. For more information, please email mirimiller3@yahoo.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
MISC 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
Brand New Modern Offices for Rent In Heart of Cedarhurst
FOR RENT
➢ Features:
➢ 1,700 Sq. Ft ➢ 2 Bathrooms ➢ 3-4 offices/areas ➢ Office/Retail Space ➢ Beautiful & Sleek Design ➢ Adjacent to Municipal Parking
Great for one or multiple offices of any type!
Rabbi Dovid Fleischmann Certified Mohel
WWW.BABYSMOHEL.COM
Baby-Friendly Care For more information please call:
Sam @ 516-855-8548
Personalized Attention
Expert Skill and Dedicated Service you Deserve
516-314-3236 babysmohel@gmail.com
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Your
Money
For the Love of Art By Allan Rolnick, CPA
I
n today’s new Gilded Age, Americans are constantly vying to one-up each other. You show up at your high-school reunion in a new Mercedes E-Class; then your classmate pulls up in a Maserati Quattroporte. (Some would call it a $50,000 car with a $50,000 hood ornament, but still, it’s a Maserati.) You show off a picture of your 42-foot sloop; your neighbor whips out his phone to show off his 62-foot schooner. You show up in Davos in your new GII; your business rival flies in on a GIV. When will it all end? The IRS isn’t generally interested in financing your conspicuous consumption. (Not unless you drive that Maserati to work, in which case, trust us, you’ll want to choose the “actual expense” method for calculating your deduction.) But there’s a new toy that some of capitalism’s winners are showing off, and this one comes with some beautiful tax breaks. We’re talking, of course, about a private art museum.
Rich art collectors have always taken fat tax breaks for donating art. The Association of Art Museum Directors estimates that 90% of the collections held by major museums were gifted by individual donors. This is an especially good way to avoid tax on capital gains. Let’s say you bought a minor Cezanne or an early de Kooning 30 years ago for $100,000. Now
you’ll need a qualified appraisal. Your deduction is limited to 50% of your adjusted gross income, although you can carry forward any excess for up to five years if you can’t use it all in a single brushstroke. And the IRS maintains an Art Advisory Board to review appraisals. But museums can’t always give your donation
That’s where the private museum comes in. There’s really not much to it. Just set up a private foundation to hold the collection and operate the facility, then stuff it full with your art. Now you’ve got your deduction and control over your collection. Who sets up one of these private museums? Peter Brant Jr. is the son of a billionaire paper magnate. In
If you give it to your local art museum, you can deduct the full $3 million fair market value!
the painting is worth $3 million. If you give it to your local art museum, you can deduct the full $3 million fair market value! Of course, there are rules in place to frame the deduction to make sure you don’t abuse the privilege. If the value is more than $5,000,
the same care and attention you would give it. New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art includes over two million pieces. It’s easy to imagine your donation winding up somewhere back in storage, like the Ark of the Covenant in the last scene of Raiders of the Lost Ark.
2010, he opened the Brant Foundation Art Center, conveniently down the street from his Greenwich estate and next door to his polo club. In Potomac, MD, Mitchell Rales, founder of the Danaher Corporation, opened the Glenstone Museum across the duck pond
from his house. Plenty of public museums, including New York’s Frick Museum, Philadelphia’s Barnes Foundation, and Washington’s Phillips Museum all started life as private collections. But critics have argued that, while the new breed of private museum meets the letter of the law, it may not always meet the spirit. We realize your art collection might not include more than the dogs playing poker hiding in your basement rec room. But that doesn’t mean you can’t canvass the tax code for the same tax-planning strategies that major collectors use to structure their private museums. Make sure you have a plan and see if you can make beautiful art with your finances. Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 yea rs in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.
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Life C ach
The Fantasy of Football By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
I
s anyone participating in fantasy football? You think it’s a fantasy that anyone wins? Everyone is regretting their choices. Where is that one sports genius who actually gets the pot at the end?! I want to meet them ‘cuzI just hear everyone complaining about their picks. Isn’t it enough for everyone to have a home team to root for?! Do you really need to create your own personal team, comprised of players from everywhere, just so that all the other teams can take on importance too? Doesn’t anyone want to do anything besides watch Sunday, Monday, and Saturday night football?! Is it such a crime to utilize your spare time differently for the next few months other than to cheer, beer, glare, jeer, leer, peer, and fear?! How about grabbing some gear and going somewhere?! Anywhere? Let me share a scenario that took place at one home: The
non-football fanatics decided to mass a rebellion. They decided to set up a defensive line at the doorway of the den and they announced, “No football this Sunday!” So, here’s how it played out.... The instigator was blitzed and the rest of the rebels were tackled to the ground. The
And the hero of the day was victorious, that is, the 10-foot sandwich, that always must accompany every football game, was served. The idea is maybe there can be a conference to deal with the divisions. Perhaps the two sides can huddle together and figure out a work-
Is it such a crime to utilize your spare time differently for the next few months other than to cheer, beer, glare, jeer, leer, peer, and fear?!
fans broke through the line and touched down on the sofa, where they clearly achieved their goal, and sent their message – the game must go on!
able plan. Possibly the non-fans can learn a little more about the game and see if they can enjoy it a bit more. And the fans can entertain the idea that there can be
other things to do with that time, such as enjoy getting out in the yard, rather than just being concerned with yardage. Even though in this approach someone may get down once in a while, that’s a goal of this game. And if one team never scores that’s totally uninteresting. No one enjoys a perpetual shut out! Maybe everyone can step a quarter back. Possibly, be open to a new plan. After all, the goal in football is to have the division join together at the end. And everyone knows that particular bonding is called Super! So, let’s see if the competing sides can come together as a team – or is that just another fantasy of football?!
Rivki Rosenwald is a certified relationship counselor, and career and life coach. She can be contacted at 917-705-2004 or rivki@rosenwalds. com
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THE MENSCH ON THE BENCH
RE-ELECT
KNOBEL Judge Gary
District Court Judge
KNOBEL Judge Gary
District Court Judge
A Life Dedicated to Justice PROFESSIONAL • Found “Well Qualified” for District Court and Supreme Court by the Nassau County Bar Association • Acting County Court Judge since 2011 presiding over Guardianship and psychiatric retention hearings • Law Clerk to Supreme Court Justices for over 20 years • Professor of Law, Hofstra University School of Law, teaching New York Civil Procedure for 15 years • Lecturer on behalf of the Judicial Institute, instructing judges on civil procedure and consumer debt litigation • • • •
President NYS District Court Judges Association Honored in 2011 by Fraternal Order of Court Officers Graduate of New York University School of Law Delivers food weekly to Seniors in Hempstead for the last 25 years on behalf of Island Harvest • Member of Young Israel of Oceanside and Great Neck Synagogue • Former Trustee of B’nai Sholom in Rockville Centre • Director/Officer of Jewish Lawyers Association • Member of Nassau County Bar Association and Women’s Bar Association & NYS Bar Association • Devoted husband to Ilene, and father to Laurence and seventh-grader Lily
RE-ELECT JUDGE Vote TUESDAY NOVEMBER 7 TH
ROW “B” or “F” Gary Knobel
Knobel 2017 8x10.indd 1
10/30/17 10:38:11AM
941238
www.friendsofjudgeknobel.com
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