May 25, 2017
Your Favorite Five Towns Family Newspaper
Distributed weekly in the Five Towns, Long Island, Queens & Brooklyn
A RED CARPET FOR PRESIDENT TRUMP IN THE MIDDLE EAST
Pages 9, 10, 11, 13, 15, 39 & 123
Around the
Community
38 Celebrating 95 Years at the White Shul Dinner
pg
88
Congress Joins in 50th Anniversary of Jerusalem’s Reunification pg
82
TO SERVE AND PROTECT Pamela Newman Talks about Security, Business, and Three Dollars from the Lubavitcher Rebbe pg 93
39 Stars of Israel Receives Jewish Education Trophy for Innovation in Chinuch
Page 113
Discover Rich Jewish Heritage Visit Stunning Shuls Deluxe Gourmet Glatt Kosher Catering
Page 21
Relaxing & Exciting Touring Vacation Be Inspired & Entertained
Join us in
July 12-20 ITALY
The Maggid’s Journey to
with
Rabbi Ephraim E. Shapiro
Visit the cities of Venice, Rome, Padua, Florence and more Enjoy a memorable Shabbos in the stunning Italian countryside Daven at the kevarim of R' Moshe Dovid Vali, Marham Padua, and the Rema MiPano Experience Italy's rich Jewish history and beautiful Shuls Tour the canals of Venice, museums of Florence, ancient city of R’ Abish Brodt Rome and much more!
August 8-16 UKRAINE
Tour the modern city of Kiev, ancient castles in Kamianets-Podilskyi, and historic Shuls in Mezibuzh Learn about the birth of chassidus and its journey westwards
call 732.523.7917 / email INFO@EANDSTOURS.COM
57
Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky Visits Yeshiva Darchei Torah
– See page 3
SEASONS LAWRENCE
330 Central Avenue, Lawrence, NY 11559
Page 117
with Rabbi Paysach Krohn
Visit Mekomos Hakdoshim in Uman, Mezibuzh, Berditchiv & Annapoli
2
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
ly, Friends, Fine Food i m Fa
From our family to yours,
Wishing you a Great Yom Tov! the
family
CLIFTON • LAWRENCE • QUEENS • SCARSDALE • MANHATTAN • LAKEWOOD •
COMING SOON!!
B A LT I M O R E , C L E V E L A N D , A N D
LAWRENCE
CEDARHURST
SHOP 24/6 SEASONSKOSHER.COM • INFO@SEASONSKOSHER.COM
3
4
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
At the most auspicious time of the year Gedolei Hador dedicate a Mi Shebeirach on behalf of the donors of Kupat Ha’ir
104
Dollars
on Erev Shavuos for all the salvations Details of this segulah at the Kupat Ha’ir offices Maran Harav Chaim Kanievsky shlit”a donating 104 coins on Erev Shvuos
Maran Harav A.L. Steinman shlit”a donating 104 coins on Erev Shvuos
1-888-KUPATHAIR 5
8
7
2 8 4
2
Mail your donation to: American Friends of Kupat Hair 4415 14th Avenue Brooklyn NY 11219
Donate Online: www.kupat.org
קו העפת רי
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
5
6
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dear Readers,
O
to travel to certain countries, racial profiling... we need to cast aside silly political correctness and demand that actions must be taken to protect innocent civilians from these demented savages. I recently had a conversation with someone in a doctor’s office. She was not Jewish and had never been to Israel. I told her about security going into Israel; how their security guards are trained to spot terrorists and are unafraid to do what some in the PC world call “racial profiling.” For Israel, it’s not racial profiling; for Israel, it’s survival. We live in dangerous times. Many of these attacks are committed by lone wolves, radicalized madmen whose only desire is to inflict terror and carry out mass slaughter. But we live in our idyllic communities, ensconced in our busy, cozy lives. We – thankfully – don’t think about terror every day. But we must be vigilant. This week, TJH spoke with Pamela Newman, who owns a security company and recently won the Small Business Association Person of the Year Award. She points out that there is so much more that should be done to ensure the security and safety of our community – particularly our shuls and schools. Sadly, it takes an attack in which 22 people are killed at a concert to remind us of this disturbing reality.
nce again evil has reared its ugly head, this time in Manchester, England. It is heartbreaking to think of the young, innocent children who were killed and their families who are suffering. Their night of joy was suddenly and cruelly turned to black, with tears of anguish, streams of blood, and piercing screams blanketing the arena. But it’s gotten to the point where the response has to be more than just, “Oh, it’s so heartbreaking.” Muslim extremists are fighting with deadly bombs; the western world is fighting with oak tags, “I stand with Manchester,” “Coexist,” “Our thoughts are with you.” Writing “bring back our girls” on paper and then tweeting the message with a solemn face is simply not working. I fear that these radical Islamic terrorists are smarter than we give them credit for. They judge society’s response to their evil actions and realize that nobody’s home. This week I saw a headline in one of England’s main newspapers that at first I thought was a joke, but it wasn’t. It said, “Twitter unites for Manchester victims.” If we are going to measure our strength and resolve by how many “thoughts and prayers are with you” tweets are generated, we are fighting grenades with water balloons. I do not profess to know the answers – I am not in law enforcement. But it is incumbent on every member of society to speak up and say that this is not OK. Whether it is surveillance of radical mosques, not allowing people
Wishing you a wonderful, safe weekend, Shoshana
Yitzy Halpern PUBLISHER
publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Yosef Feinerman MANAGING EDITOR
ads@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Shoshana Soroka EDITOR
editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com
Nate Davis Editorial Assistant Nechama Wein Copy Editor Berish Edelman Mati Jacobovits Design & Production Gabe Solomon Distribution & Logistics P.O. BOX 266 Lawrence, NY 11559 Phone | 516-734-0858 Fax | 516-734-0857 Classifieds: Deadline Mondays 5PM classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com text 443-929-4003 The Jewish Home is an independent weekly magazine. Opinions expressed by writers are not neces sarily the opinions of the publisher or editor. The Jewish Home is not responsible for typographical errors, or for the kashrus of any product or business advertised within. The Jewish Home contains words of Torah. Please treat accordingly.
Shabbos Zemanim
Weekly Weather | May 26 - June 1
Friday, May 26 Parshas Bamidbar 26
27
28
29
30
31
1
Candle Lighting: 7:57 pm Shabbos Ends: 9:05 pm Rabbeinu Tam: 9:28 pm Sponsored by
Showers
Partly Cloudy
PM Showers
PM Showers
Partly Cloudy
Mostly Sunny
Mostly Sunny
73° 57°
68° 58°
63° 60°
71° 60°
68° 62°
72° 61°
71° 60°
eretzhachaim.org
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
?
didne
somEo
chocolate dipped Nutopia ice cream covered in viennese crunch
say rt
E s s e d
NEW!
Crunchy Spoons Sorbet S poons MOCHA F udge log Creamsic le Log
7
8
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
8
COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll
8
Community Happenings
36
NEWS Global
13
National
27
Odd-but-True Stories
31
ISRAEL Israel News
22
Jerusalem Reunited: Congress Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Jerusalem’s Reunification 82
100
My Israel Home
80
A Red Carpet for President Trump in the 88 Middle East PEOPLE
My Father, R’ Shlomo Shmuel Twersky, a”h, by Hindy Yudin nèe Twersky
66
To Serve and Protect: Small Business Person of the Year Pamela Newman Talks about Security, Business, and Three Dollars from the Lubavitcher 93 Rebbe Strange Stories from World War II, Part II by Avi Heiligman
122
PARSHA Rabbi Wein
72
In the Name of Shame by Rav Moshe Weinberger
74
JEWISH THOUGHT Mission: Possible by Eytan Kobre
76
Do You Validate Parking by Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
78
HEALTH & FITNESS When Bad is Good by Dr. Deb Hirschhorn
100
Why Cheesecake is Eaten on Shavuos by Cindy Weinberger, MS RD CDN
104
Parenting Teenagers by Eli Perlman, LCSW
106
FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Shavuos Delights 110 LIFESTYLES Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer 96 Mann, LCSW
104
Your Money
132
The Saga of the LB by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS 134 HUMOR
Centerfold
70
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes
112
The Guardrails Can’t Contain Trump by Charles Krauthammer
120
CLASSIFIEDS
126
Dear Editor, I read in one of the letters to the editor last week someone asking Trump to stop tweeting and arguing with everyone all the time. What I don’t understand is what does this reader want Trump to do? If everyone is constantly misquoting him, should he just keep quiet and let everyone believe what is being said? The Shulchan Aruch (Even Haezer, 2:4) says that if a person is called a mamzer and he is quiet, we actually should take the rumor seriously. The Rema adds that if the person generally responds to accusations, and now all of the sudden is quiet, we definitely believe what is being said and we don’t assume he just decided to not enter into machlokes all of the sudden. I think the lesson from this is obvious. The reader should instead be angry at the media that is fighting Trump, never giving him credit for the good things he does and completely misrepresenting anything they can misrepresent. We should definitely not be surprised at this, as the media treats Israel in a very similar to the way, e.g. if a policeman or a soldier kills an Arab who was trying to cut his throat, The New York Times and CNN write in the title that a Palestinian was shot by the police. Just as the media was totally biased in favor of Obama, covering up and whitewashing everything wrong he
did (like releasing a convicted terrorist murderer from Puerto Rico), now the media ganged up to be motzee shem ra on Trump. I hope through his tweets setting the record straight he will undermine the reputation of the fake media, and I can only wish him lots of success. In this case, what is good for Trump is good for Israel. Sincerely, Moshe Budnevich Dear Editor, This week one of your readers wrote in about Trump’s tweets and asked him to stop tweeting. In a way I agree with him. We all know that Trump is a man of action – he’s always making “deals.” Take a peek at his leaked tax returns and you’ll understand what I’m saying. Mr. Trump, I believe that America just wants to see you doing; we want to see action and not words. So stop tweeting and let your actions speak for themselves. Chaim Stevens Dear Editor, To Dr. Lightman: Although I am not Jewish I often pick up The Jewish Home when I shop at Fairway Plainview, as I find the articles engrossing and I maintain a keen interest in Jewish affairs and history. Your article on Continued on page 12
Shavuos is coming! Which flower do you like best?
52 23 % % 8 17
%
%
Rose
Orchid
Lily
Tulip
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
9
10
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Sale Dates: May 28th - June 2nd 2017
Weekly Kemach All Purpose Kellogg’s 12 oz Crispix; 18 oz Raisin Bran; 17 oz Flour Apple Jacks or Froot Loops
5 lb $ 49
2
299
Ronzoni Pasta
Except Lasagna, Jumbo Shells, Manicotti, Gluten-Free 12 oz - 16 oz
Hunt’s BBQ Sauce Assorted - 18 oz
3
3/$
5
5/$
......................................................
Quaker Chewy Granola Bars Assorted 6.7 oz/7.4 oz
Kemach 6” Graham Cracker Pie Crusts 9 oz
99¢
4
2/$
......................................................
Wesson Canola Oil
Kemach Honey Grahams
48 oz $ 99
Assorted - 14 oz
3
4
2/$
Mehadrin Leben Assorted - 6 oz
Mehadrin Sour Cream
2
Cheese
Assorted - 6 oz
1
2/$
Except Reduced Fat - 8 oz $ 99
1
......................................................
Fresh & Tasty Whipped Cream Cheese 8 oz
Norman’s Greek Yogurt Except Pro Plus 5.3 oz/6 oz
10/$
A & B Gefilte Fish
Breyer’s Ice Cream
1
Original Only - 20 oz
Assorted - 48 oz
299
$
...................................................... Pepperidge Farms Amnon’s Pizza Puff Pastry Sheets Original Only
3
36 oz
7
$ 99 ...................................................... Kineret Chocolate Chip Golden Blintzes Cookie Dough Assorted - 13 oz 24 oz
499
$
NOW 2 locations!
Heinz Ketchup
Glass Bottle - 750 ml
38 oz
3
5
2/$
2/$
.................................................
.................................................
.................................................
.................................................
2/$
Bloom’s Chocolate Chips World Harbors 9 oz Marinades All Varieties - 16 oz 3/$ 2/$
.................................................
.................................................
Gefen Whole Hearts of Palm 14 oz
4
LaRosa Authentic Canoli Shells Original or Mini - 5.5 oz
399
$
.................................................
5
Duncan Hines Chewy Fudge or Dark Fudge Brownie Mixes 18 oz/18.3 oz
3
.................................................
Schmerling Chocolate Gourmet Glatt Le’Chocolate Viennese Bars Rosemarie Milk or Parve Crunch & 72% Only - 3.5 oz
5
2/$
Tropicana Orange Juice Assorted 89 oz
.......................................
Philadelphia Cream Cheese Bars Assorted - 8 oz
5
2/$
.......................................
25 oz
6
$
49
STORE HOURS
329
$
.................................................
.................................................
Assorted - 20 oz
Assorted - 40 oz
Bloomeo’s Cookies
Gold’s Duck Sauce
2
$
249
99
$
.................................................
.................................................
4 lb Bag
7 oz
Domino Sugar
Paskesz Lady Fingers
5
2/$
1
$ 99
99
Friendship Cottage Cheese Assorted - 16 oz
4
2/$
.......................................
Sabra Hummus Assorted - 10 oz
4
2/$
137 Spruce Street
Sabra Guacamole Assorted 7 oz/8 oz
2
$
99
299
$
.......................................
16 oz
7.5 oz
Ha’olam Ricotta Cheese
3
$
99
.......................................
Assorted - 16 oz
White Muenster, Edam, Mozzarella, Smoked, Pepper Jack Only - 6 oz
3
11.5 oz
.......................................
.......................................
2/$
Temptee Whipped Cream Cheese
Miller’s Sliced Cheese
Friendship Farmer Cheese
5
2/$
.......................................
Miller’s String Cheese 18 oz
699
$
1
$ 99
Marino’s Italian Ices Assorted - 6 Count
3
2/$
.......................................
Rich’s Whip Topping 8 oz
89¢
99
Cedarhurst
12 oz
5
11
$
Flaum’s Nova Salmon Friendship Sour 6 oz Cream
2
$
Schwartz Pretzel Crumbs
2/$
10
$ 99
99
3
San Pellegrino
3/$
599
YoCrunch Yogurt Ha’olam Shredded
$
Chocolate or Vanilla - 2.8 oz
$ 49
$
......................................................
17.3 oz
1
Osem Pudding
family/party pack!
16 oz $ 99
10
10/$
699
16 oz
$
......................................................
$
Mishpacha Lasagna
(516) 569-2662
SUN -TUE: 7 AM-9 PM WED: 7 AM-11 PM THURS: 7 AM-12 AM FRIDAY 6:30 AM-2 HRS. BEFORE CANDLE LIGHTING
Koherific Fish Sticks 25 oz
5
$
99
B’gan Breaded Cauliflower 24 oz
699
$
DynaSea Seafood Assorted - 16 oz
499
$
.......................................
.......................................
.......................................
13 oz
Dairy Only Assorted - 56 oz
Assorted 24 oz - 28 oz
NY Pasta Authority Tortellini or Ravioli
399
$
Woodmere STORE HOURS
Klein’s Ice Cream
599
$
Ta’amti Bourekas
399
$
1030 Railroad Avenue
(516) 295-6901
SUN - THURS: 7 AM-9 PM FRIDAY 7 AM UNTIL 2 HRS. BEFORE CANDLE LIGHTING
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Sale Dates: May 28th - June 2nd 2017
Specials
16
$
99
Untrimmed
1st CUT BRISKET
1st CUT VEAL CHOPS
9
$
lb.
99
CHICKEN LEGS
CHICKEN CUTLETS $ 99 lb.
lb.
269 lb.
3
$
Super Family Pack
Minute Steak
1299 lb.
Shoulder Lamb Chops
$
Family Pack ...................
Shoulder London Broil
...................
899 lb.
End Cut Veal Chops $1499 lb.
$
................... Neck & Skirt
..................
Minute Roast
499 lb. $ 99 8 lb. $
Ground Beef
Family Pack ...................
Silver Tip Roast
1199 lb.
$
.................. Neck & Skirt
12
$
99
lb.
599 lb.
Fresh Beef Patties
$
12 Pack
Super Family Pack
Extra Lean Beef Stew $ 49 6 lb.
Chicken Roast Stuffed $ 99 8 lb. with Veal or Kishka/ Pastrami
Family Pack ...................
Dark Chicken Cutlets
599 lb.
Ground Chicken
549 lb. $ 99 5 lb.
$
Family . . . . . . . . . Pack ..........
Turkey Roast
White Meat
Seasoned Chicken or Beef Kabobs
$
Seasoned Beef & Chicken Patties
$
699 lb.
...................
649 lb.
Italian Kiwi
Holland Red Peppers
6/$2
$
$
$
Red Delicious Apples
Holland Yellow Peppers
Holland Orange Peppers
Cello Lettuce
Cello Mushrooms
Persian Cucumbers
new crop!
Sweet Onions
159 lb.
199 lb.
229 lb
99¢ lb.
Apricots
seasoned ready to grill or bake!
$
Family Pack ...................
69¢ lb.
Head
249 lb.
$
$
99¢ ea.
2/$3
Anjou Pears
Del Monte Pineapple
Snow White Cauliflower
Idaho Potatoes
Golden Delicious Apples
99¢ lb.
2/$4
2/$5
59¢ lb.
99¢ lb.
249 lb.
order your shabbos platters early! 4 795
OUR DAIRY & MEAT SHOWCASES WILL BE FULLY STOCKED FOR SHAVUOS!
Cucumber $ 50 Mom’s Healthy $ Avocado Delight Roll Roll ...................................................... Philadelphia $ Roll
Sushi Burrito
$
Giant Cooked $ Maki Roll
Shau Lin Roll
$
695
1095
......................................................
750
we have family size oven-ready dishes for shavuos! Whole Bronzini $ 99 lb.
8
6
Parve Cinnamon Assorted 7 Bobka Layer Cakes
6
$
99 ea.
Package of 8
69 ea.
shavuos flowers!
Festive Spring Floral Arrangements
Yerushalmi Kugel
1
$ 49 ea.
349ea.
$
Italian Bread Assorted
largest variety of homemade dips! Spinach Dip
299ea.
$
1
$ 49 ea.
FOR YOUR TABLE OR MAKES A GREAT GIFT!
Crunchy Pickle Dip
299ea.
$
349ea.
/gourmetglatt
Parve Stuffed Cabbage
399ea.
$
Parve Veggie Pizza
649lb.
$
Salt & Pepper Kugel Kani Burger $
3499& up
$
gourmetglattonline.com
we have parve cheesecake for shavuos!
14
Hot Dog Buns
5
$
new!
Sundried Tomato Panko Salmon $ 99 lb.
Breaded Tilapia $ 49 lb.
1195
699lb. new!
$
TRY OUR DIET MUFFINS FOR SHAVUOS!
We reserve the right to limit quantities. No rain checks. Not responsible for typographical errors.
11
12
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Continued from 8
ב"ה
It is with great honor to cordially invite my dear friends and neighbors to a special event I am hosting in honor of our renowned
SPINKA REBBE הרה״ג ר' ישראל חיים פריעדמאן שליט"א Who has impacted and inspired our Far Rockaway / Five Towns community with his presence for many years. The Rebbe will condunct a Chassidish
מלוה מלכה
With singing, stories and Divrei Torah. Please join me for this inspirational event AT M Y H O M E
260 CENTRAL AVE
Regency Penthouse, Suite #408-409 LAWRENCE NY 11516. On
מוצאי שבת קודש פר׳ במדבר May 27 From 10:30 PM till 1:30 AM This event is Dedicated in memory of my father
ר' יצחק ארי' ב"ר מרדכי דוד ע"ה The Rebbe is looking forward to meet and greet his neighbors personally with Chizuk and Brocha.
Reuven Guttman
P L E A S E
M A K E
C H E C K S
P A Y A B L E
T O
C O N G R E G AT I O N B E T H S H M I E L D ' S P I N K A D O N A T I O N S
A R E
T A X
D E D U C T A B L E
why today’s children exhibit inordinate anxiety and fear intrigued me and I read with interest your advice. A bit about myself: I have been working as a piano teacher one-onone for 43 years, so although I do not possess your degrees on the subject, I have by proxy been enlisted in many psychological situations, because if they are not seeing you as a doctor, I am often their only non-relative undivided-attention adult. Point in fact, although I am not compensated for this accordingly, I take solace in the fact that the formidable child psychologist Dr. Salk (brother of polio fame) once claimed that most of the childrearing books on the shelves were written by self-styled experts with few, if any, qualifications. Predictably, I have witnessed profound changes in children and parental “styles” in those 43 years. Having lived through pre-2nd Vatican Council “schooling” which often violated the Geneva Conventions on hapless children, and the baby boomer era where our parents were involved in WWII, there was at that time a great gulf between parents and children, and not only did we not consider ourselves on par with parents, I can state in my case I never thought I could come up to ever being an adult considering their heroic sacrifices. I have seen in today’s parlance the term “kinderarchy” used in describing the very out of control situations I certainly encounter on a daily basis. I frequently remark that there was only one day of the year when my parents ever addressed me with a sentence ending in a question mark and that was my birthday, “Do you want vanilla, chocolate or strawberry?” Today, conversely, and I am a sedulous observer, every sentence emanating out of the mouth of a parent ends in a question mark, and the very few commands all end in comma, “OK”? I don’t expect you to have the same visceral reaction or belief about this that I do, however, I was wondering if you might consider my theory as to how this insanity might factor in with your article. In addition to undermining their authority, position, and respect as parents, as well as giving them the distorted view that the world is their oyster, aren’t they also by this “method” possibly confusing their children with too many choices that their undeveloped minds cannot filter or process at a very young age? Thank you for reading. Sincerely, Joseph Graziose Dear Editor,
Thanks for an informing article about protein bars. The same goes for granola or breakfast bars. Many brands are deceptive in terms of nutritional value due to high sugar content. Maybe you could print some recipes like the one I’ve attached from Amazing Wellness magazine (printed by the Vitamin Shoppe). It’s easy and quick to make. Instead of balls, I also put the entire mixture in a pan, sprinkle the coconut on top and freeze it. One may need to add some water to the mixture. There are other healthy and tasty alternatives without soy like NuGo gluten free dark chocolate trail mix and Clif Bars nut butter-filled bars. I also make baked apples and granola for a tasty, nutritious, and delicious snack, dessert, or breakfast. Here is the recipe: Slice approximately 4-6 apples and place in 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Set aside. Dry ingredients for granola: Mix in a bowl: 4 cups dry oatmeal; cinnamon; nutmeg and allspice (optional); 1-2 tsp. sea salt; other options: sunflower seeds, dried cranberries, raisins, chopped dates, sesame seeds, coconut flakes – unsweetened, other chopped, fresh or dried fruit, chopped walnuts. Wet ingredients in a separate bowl: 1/2 cup healthy oil (grapeseed, olive, etc.); 1/2 c. honey Optional flavoring like vanilla, almond, orange. Mix wet and dry ingredients together. Add apple or grape juice or water if more liquid is needed. Spread granola mixture over the apples. Bake at 350°F for about 30 -35 minutes until granola is done. The granola can be made without the apples on the bottom. Serve warm or at room temperature with ice cream for an extra treat. Keep covered in the refrigerator. Enjoy! Shoshana Averbach Flatbush Dear Editor, Mr. Sidney Rabinovich’s story was inspiring. It is almost impossible to see such dedication and love in the 21st century. We all head to the Israel Day Parade and wear blue and white on Yom Ha’atzmaut. But do we fight for our country? Do we truly love our country? Would we put our lives on the line for our country? Kudos for Mr. Rabinovich and his fellow volunteers who risked their lives to help our nation create their own State. It would not be the State of Israel without you. Sincerely, Dorothy Kanner
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
The Week In News
Bombing at Concert Kills 22
On Monday night, as fans were leaving a concert in Manchester Arena, a lone attacker detonated a bomb, killing at least 22 people, including children. This is the deadliest attack on British soil since the 2005 London bombings, which killed more than 50 people. At least 60 people were injured in Monday’s carnage. Sadly, many of those who were in the arena were youngsters and teenagers. When the bomb went off, thousands fled for safety and chaos reigned. The sounds of sirens and screams pierced the atmosphere. On Tuesday, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack that was carried out by the 23-year-old man. British Prime Minister Theresa May called the carnage a “callous, terrorist attack.” “This attack stands out for its appalling, sickening cowardice deliberately targeting innocent defenseless children and young people who should have been enjoying one of the most memorable nights of their lives,” she said, speaking outside of Downing Street, where flags were flying at half-staff. She called it among the worst terrorist incidents in Britain and “the worst ever to hit the north of England.” Mayhem resulted after the blast. Hundreds tried to call their families, although phone reception was not clear. Manchester resident Charlotte Campbell told CNN her 15-year-old daughter, Olivia, went to the concert with a friend, and neither had been in contact since the explosion. “We’ve tried everything we can. They’re telling us to wait by the phones. Her dad is out looking. ... It’s the most horrible feeling ever,
to know your daughter is there and you don’t know whether she’s dead or alive,” she said. Through tears, Campbell said she didn’t know how anyone could do this to “innocent children.” “I want her home and I want her safe. ... I just want her to walk through the door.” Manchester residents and a local Holiday Inn hotel opened their doors to those who needed shelter as the area was put into lockdown. The railway station near the arena was closed all of Tuesday. “These were children, young people and their families that those responsible chose to terrorize and kill. This was an evil act,” Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said. On Tuesday, officials slowly released the names of those who perished in the attack. The first victim to be named was 18-year-old Georgina Callander, who was a big fan of the performer. She was in the second year of a health and social care course at Runshaw College. Saffie Rose Roussos was the second victim to be named in the attack. The eight-year-old girl went to the concert with her mother and sister, who were both injured in the attack. According to the head-teacher at her school, “Saffie was simply a beautiful little girl in every aspect of the word. She was loved by everyone and her warmth and kindness will be remembered fondly. Saffie was quiet and unassuming with a creative flair.” On Tuesday, family and friends were still searching for their loved ones who they had not heard from since the concert.
New Ferry Service Connects N. Korea and Russia
In spite of North Korea’s test-firing a new type of ballistic missile and the United States calling for countries to curtail their relationship with Pyongyang, a new ferry will be connecting Russia and North Korea. The weekly ferry docked last Thursday for the first time in the Pacific port of
13
14
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
& JY
China Crippled U.S. Spy Network
Imperial Wood Flooring
walk on us for a
lifetime
New!
Dustless Sanding
DESIGN INSTALLATION & REFINISHING HARDWOOD FLOORS BORDERS • LAMINATE • VINYL
Servicing the tristate area
718.309.5092
Fully licensed and Insured Free Estimates
www.imperialwoodfloor.com
Est. 2002
info@imperialwoodfloor.com
Commercial and Residential
Vladivostok. The ferry is aimed at Chinese tourists wishing to travel by sea to Russia. China has no port on the Sea of Japan, so traveling to North Korea and then to Vladivostok is the quickest way to reach Russia by sea. Although the ferry company claims the venture is strictly commercial, many view the new connection as a possible relationship-building tech-
nique for North Korea with Russia in case China turns its back on North Korea. China is currently North Korea’s closest ally. “It’s our business, of our company, without any state subsidies, involvement and help,” insisted Mikhail Khmel, the deputy director of Investstroytrest, the Russian firm operating the ferry. When asked about the new ferry service, Katina Adams, a spokeswom-
an for the U.S. State Department, said, “We call on all nations to fully implement U.N. Security Council Resolutions, and sever or downgrade diplomatic and commercial relations with North Korea.” Adams also noted Russia’s “obligation” under U.N. Security Council resolutions “to inspect all cargo, including personal luggage, of any individual traveling to or from” North Korea.
The Chinese government eliminated or imprisoned more than a dozen CIA operatives between 2010 and 2012. The sources were found and “taken out,” based on what American officials called the worst intelligence breach in recent history. Intelligence gathering in the region was crippled for many years after the dismantling of the CIA’s infrastructure in China. Despite it taking place years ago, the story has only now been made public. The source of the leak that exposed the agents is a hotly contested issue in intelligence circles. Many believe that there was mole inside the CIA that betrayed the United States. Others think that China was able to hack the covert system that the CIA uses to communicate with its sources in foreign countries. There is no official proof to support either theory. The details of the investigation into the data leak have come out slowly. Ten officials – both current and former – have described the ongoing investigation under the condition of anonymity to different sources. In early 2010, America had a well-developed spy network inside China. Information on the inner workings of the Chinese government was gathered from sources deep inside the Beijing intelligence community. Then, at the end of 2010 and in early 2011, information began to dry up and assets were going missing. The FBI and the CIA created a joint task force to investigate where the leak was that was giving China the information to finger and assassinate CIA operatives in China. They were unable to gather enough evidence to convict any one person. By 2013, the edge China held over the American intelligence officers in China had dulled and operations were resumed. But the damage had been done. The spy network in China had been dismantled in two short years. Continued on page 18
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
15
16
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
17
18
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Sweden Drops Assange Investigation
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was under investigation for a crime against a woman in Sweden until last Friday, when the country dropped its investigation. Swedish Chief Prosecutor Marianne Ny said the investigation could not proceed due to legal obstacles. “We are not making a statement about his guilt,” Ny insisted, adding that the investigation could be reopened if Assange came to Sweden before the statute of limitations deadline for the allegation in 2020. Despite the closing of the investigation, Assange is not free to go. British police said he would still be arrested if he left the Ecuadorean embassy in London where he has been camping out for the last half decade. London police claim they will be forced to arrest Assange if he leaves the embassy for skipping bail. This would be a way less serious crime than what he was accused of but can still end in a potential conviction and jail time. In June 2012, Assange took refuge in the embassy to avoid extradition to Sweden after two women accused him of crimes, which he adamantly denies. He says it is all a ploy to get him back onto U.S. soil. In the U.S. he is facing prosecution over WikiLeaks’ publication of classified military and diplomatic documents in one of the largest information leaks in U.S. history. Appearing on the balcony of the embassy after the Swedish announcement, Assange said he was ready to talk to Britain “about what is the best way forward” and with the U.S. Department of Justice, but also defended his right to stay put. “The road is far from over. The war, the proper war, is just commencing,” he told supporters and media after raising a clenched fist in a gesture of victory.
Rouhani Reelected
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, 68, celebrated his victory after being re-elected for a second term this week. In his acceptance speech Rouhani pledged to expose Iran to the world and provide freedoms its people have longed for. During his campaign for reelection Rouhani vowed to bring change to the Persian regime, a country that still denies many rights to its citizens, women in particular. Rouhani, obtaining 57% of the vote, beat out his leading opponent, ,judge Ebrahim Raisi, who received 38%. In his first televised speech after the result, Rouhani openly defied conservative judges by praising the spiritual leader of the reform camp, former President Mohammad Khatami. A court has banned quoting or naming Khatami on air. “Our nation’s message in the election was clear: Iran’s nation chose the path of interaction with the world, away from violence and extremism,” Rouhani said. In the Iranian government the powers of the elected president are limited by those of unelected Supreme Leader, who is currently Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who outranks the president. However, the landslide of Rouhani’s victory suggests that the pro-reform sentiment in Iran is strong. His opponent, Raisi, a protégé of Khamenei, is a conservative. Upon Rouhani’s victory, thousands of supporters gathered in the streets to celebrate. Videos posted to different social media outlets showed groups of people clapping and chanting, “We love you Hassan Rouhani, we support you.” Some donned purple wristbands, the color of Rouhani’s campaign. Others wore green, representing the reformist movement crushed by security forces after a 2009 election whose leaders have been under house arrest since 2011. While campaigning, Rouhani prom-
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
C
l b'gan
a Send in your origin
TI
RE
IP
TION
IT & WIN
E COMP
E
Fry it Bake it Dip it Snack it Just Like it & WIN!
LIK E
HOW DO YOU
e ip c e r s e n o t s o t r YUca o d win: ter an
with photos to en
! H S A C 0 0 5 $ E Z I R P GRAND products orth of B'gan Second Prize $250 w to P lu g -i n s te a ic if rt e c t if g 0 10 Th ird P ri ze $
dges: ju y b d e t c le e s e b l winners wil tan Bernath r G u ru | Chef Ei e h s o K | in le K ra Shif
Email likeit@bganfoods.com | Mail: B'Gan Like It!, 1322 43rd Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219 Entry deadline 7/31. Winners will be announced 8/7. B'gan reserves the right to publish recipe entries.
19
20
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
B”H
SHAVUOT Cha
wIT an h bad The Jean fIsChm Towns e Cen TeR of The fIv
GRand ICe CReam paRTy wITh ToppInGs!
CheeseCake & blInTz baR
Bring your family & friends to Chabad and hear the Ten Commandments
wednesday, may 31, 2017 @ Chabad of the Five Towns 74 Maple Avenue, Cedarhurst
Services begin at 10:00 am Reading of the Ten Commandments at 11:00 am followed by a delicious Ice cream Party & Cheesecake / Blintz Bar 5:30 pm 2nd Ten Commandments Reading and Ice Cream party for those unable to attend earlier
ThuRsday, June 1 · 5:30 pm famIly GaRden paRTy
Join us for a garden dessert party in honor of Shavuot. Enjoy sweets and tea with your Chabad family. At the home of Jonathon & Shana Rabinow 438 Summit Avenue, Cedarhurst
Tuesday, may 30 all nIGhT leaRn-a-Thon Women: 11:30 pm - 1:00 am Men: Beginning at Midnight Boys & Teen learning! Light Refreshments
All are welcome! Regardless of background or affiliation! For more information please call Chabad at: (516) 295-2478 Visit us on the web @ www.chabadfivetowns.com
ised to seek their release if re-elected with a stronger mandate. It is safe to assume that Rouhani will face the same limits on his power to transform Iran that stopped him from achieving social change in his first term. Khatami, who failed to deliver on a reform agenda as president from 1997-2005, was also unable to achieve enough power to secure real changes in Iran. The Shi’ite Muslim religious judicial authorities blacklisted Khatami from public life for his support for other reformists under house arrest. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said he hoped Rouhani would use his second term to end Tehran’s ballistic missile program and what he called its network of terrorism. Iran denies any involvement in terrorism and says its missile program, which President Trump recently targeted with new sanctions, is merely for defense purposes.
Irish Priest Saved Jews during Holocaust
Yad Vashem, the Shoah Martyrs’ and Heroes’ Remembrance Authority commemorates all friends of the Jews during the Holocaust. The “Righteous among the Nations” is a list that includes any non-Jews who risked their lives in order to save Jews during the Nazi era. Now, seven decades after the Holocaust, an Irish priest, hailed as “Ireland’s Oskar Schindler,” is being vetted by Yad Vashem to be added to the exclusive honorable list. “Monsignor O’Flaherty left the safety of the Vatican to run his escape line,” said Jerry O’Grady, chairman of the Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty Memorial Society in the priest’s hometown of Killarney, Ireland. “The Gestapo had a price on his head and they tried to kidnap him many times.” O’Flaherty is credited with hiding hundreds of Jews from the Gestapo. He was the son of a golf steward in Ireland. His skill at the game helped garner him social connections in the Ro-
man society. The priest mingled with social luminaries such as Mussolini’s son-in-law, Count Galeazzo Ciano, as well as the former Spanish King Alphonso. Eventually, his connections became instrumental in aiding Jewish refugees. In the last years of the war, as the Italian government collapsed, O’Flaherty organized a group of priests, anti-Fascists and diplomats to help shelter Jews, escaped POWs and refugees. He set up a network of safe havens in rented apartments and religious houses throughout Rome. Claudio-Ilan Jacobi benefited from O’Flaherty’s kindness. Now living in Israel, Jacobi escaped the ghetto when the Gestapo raided it. “I saw the Monsignor many times,” Jacobi wrote in his statement for Yad Vashem. “He helped my mother, my grandparents and me find refuge from the Nazis.” “He got false papers for us from the Vatican as well as food cards,” Jacobi testified. “I remember the great appreciation my mother had for all he did.” Jacobi relates an incident where O’Flaherty threatened the doorman of Jacobi’s apartment with excommunication for speaking too openly about the Jewish family hiding inside. The process to be approved for Yad Vashem’s list is lengthy and strict. “Monsignor O’Flaherty has already been honored by the American, British and Italian governments,” said O’Grady. “He received the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) and the U.S. Medal of Freedom but he has never been officially recognized by the State of Israel.” In 2013, the Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty Society erected a lifesize bronze statue in his hometown in Killarney, Ireland. The memorial bears O’Flaherty’s personal motto, “G-d has no Country.”
Brazilian Prez: I Won’t Resign
The president of Brazil is pledging to fight the allegations being lobbied against him that he supported hush money payouts to a corrupt ex-lawmaker serving jail time. Presi-
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
21
dent Michel Temer defended himself this week in a national address, asserting, “At no time did I authorize the paying of anyone. I did not buy anybody’s silence. I will not resign.” The scandal has brought a whirlwind of uncertainty to Brazil’s economy. The stock market and currency of Latin America’s largest country has plunged since the news of the alleged corruption broke. The day after the allegations arose, Brazil’s main Ibovespa stock index dropped 10 percent and Brazil’s currency lost 8 percent of its value against the U.S. dollar. Protests have been organized and politicians have called for the president’s impeachment over the scandal. “I can’t see how Temer survives this,” said David Fleischer, a political science professor at the University of Brasilia. “There are just too many people against him now.” This is newest scandal to rock the Brazilian leader. In April he was accused of having cabinet ministers collect bribes and campaign donations from a large construction company in return for government contracts. As of this printing, Temer is still the president of Brazil, though his approval ratings are around 10 percent.
Saudi Arabia’s $110B Deal with the U.S.
President Donald Trump’s first trip abroad seems to have been quite a success so far. Last weekend, Trump boarded Air Force One and visited the Middle East. His first stop was Saudi Arabia and his agenda was to talk better business for the U.S. The oil-rich kingdom signed a tentative agreement that Trump’s team has said is worth an estimated $110 billion. The deal includes the sale and purchase of fighter jets, ships and missiles, as well as energy technology, health-care expertise, job training and a $40 billion joint infrastructure investment fund. The deals discussed were memorandums rather than formal com-
mitments or signed contracts. All negotiations will go through further adjustments. Many familiar with the deal have said that a large chunk of that sum reflects funds invested in and goods made in the KSA, the kingdom of Saudi Arabia, not in the USA despite Trump’s promise to bring more jobs home. Lockheed Martin, an American global aerospace, defense, security and advanced technologies company, said
that Saudi Arabia “has expressed its intent to procure more than $28 billion worth of Lockheed Martin integrated air and missile defense, combat ship, tactical aircraft and rotary wing technologies and programs.” Lockheed Martin chief executive Marillyn Hewson said she hoped to “strengthen the cause of peace in the region.” General Electric said they also signed a memorandum for the sale of $7 billion of GE technology and for
the training of Saudi citizens in cloudbased data skills and expertise in the health-care industry. Saudi Aramco, the official Saudi Arabian Oil Company, said it inked $50 billion in agreements largely aimed at boosting local content and jobs. GE would also help improve efficiency in manufacturing, the state mining company and Saudi Aramco. Aramco said they hope that the GE contract will generate 250 high-tech Saudi jobs.
22
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
President Trump Takes Israel
President Donald Trump expressed his high hopes for a “new level of partnership” between the Arab states and Israel during his recent trip to the Middle East. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded that he feels there is “real hope for change” for the first time in his lifetime. During a joint press conference earlier this week, Trump spoke of the opportunities in the Middle East. “We must seize them together. We
must take advantage of the situation. And there are many things that can happen now that could never have happened before,” Trump said. When referencing his meetings with Saudi Arabia’s leaders, Trump said, “We are willing to work together. I believe that a new level of partnership is possible and will happen,” referring to ties between the U.S., Israel and the Arab world. Trump arrived in Israel after two days in Saudi Arabia. He met with Netanyahu and President Reuven Rivlin on Monday and then Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Bethlehem on Tuesday. While speaking with Netanyahu, Trump said that a “renewed effort” would be made to restart peace talks between Israel and Palestine. “It won’t be easy,” he admitted. “I’ve heard it’s one of the toughest deals of all. But I have a feeling we will get there eventually, I hope.” Netanyahu was very warm in his remarks about President Trump. He said there was “something new, and potentially something very promising” in the air. “It won’t be simple. But for the first time in many years, and Mr. President, for the first time in my lifetime, I see a real hope for
change,” Netanyahu said. Surprisingly, President Trump is the very first sitting U.S. president to visit the Kotel, Israel’s holiest and most popular site. On Wednesday, Trump made his way to Rome and the Vatican. He then stopped in Brussels, Taormina and Sigonella, a U.S. Navy installation in Sicily.
Israeli Shoots His Way Out of Arab Mob
This week, while being attacked by a crowd of Palestinians, an Israeli man from the settlement of Itamar used his gun to save his life. The vi-
olent protestors were throwing rocks at the man’s car in the northern West Bank town of Hawara. The civilian reported that his car was pelted with rocks and was being kicked by the protestors. He told police that he feared for his life and fired two shots from his gun in order to disperse the violent crowd. He had first tried to drive his car through the protestors but was blocked by an ambulance that he said was deliberately trying to stop him from getting through. The shots he fired from his legally registered handgun hit two people. One was killed and another was lightly injured. Military police came to his rescue and dispersed the crowd with tear gas. In an interview, the father of eight said that the Palestinians “almost lynched” him. “Thank G-d I managed to get out of there… I looked death in the eyes,” he said. The Palestinian protest was being held to show support for Palestinian prisoners that have been on a hunger strike since April 17. According to a military spokesperson, “Hundreds of Palestinians threw rocks at passing vehicles” during the violent demonstrations. “They are blocking the road that goes from the Gav Ha-
yeshivas be’er yit zchok of elizabet h
guest speaker:
Rabbi Yaakov Reisman, Rav emeRitus of agudath isRael of long island
june 18th, 2017 · 24 sivan 5777 at the renaissance newark airport hotel
ת בא רי
celebrating
יש
elizabethkollel.org/dinner
1000 spring street elizabeth, nj 07201 יב
צ חק
reception 5:30 dinner 6:30
Years of torah
ציון הלוי-לע''נ יצחק בן דוד למל הכהן ולע''נ יצחק בן דוד ויצחק בן בן
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
23
24
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
har settlements to the center of the country. They throw rocks at cars full of families and children,” the spokesperson said. Yossi Dagan, the head of the Samaria Regional Council, said he “totally supports the resident who defended his life and the lives of those around him against attackers.” A video of the shooting has been posted on social media. It shows the man’s car being blocked by an ambulance and rocks being thrown at the car prior to two gunshots and the arrival of military police. In a slightly related story, Israeli settlers have been giving out candy bars to IDF soldiers near Hawara. The brand of candy they are handing out is the same that Marwan Barghouti, a Palestinian leader serving a life sentence who is leading the hunger strike, was caught eating on camera while proclaiming to be fasting.
Famous Spy Dies at 100 Shulamit “Shula” Cohen-Kishik, a woman who spent 14 years of her life spying for Israel in Lebanon, has died at the age of 100.
Cohen-Kishik, who was later nicknamed “The Pearl,” was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and was raised by her Zionist parents who moved their family to pre-state Israel. When she was 16, she married Joseph Kishik, a wealthy Jewish-Lebanese businessman from Beirut, and moved to Lebanon. She began to work for the Mossad when she was 27, and for 15 years she helped gather intelligence on Arab military activity and brought persecuted Jews to the land of Israel. In 1961, Cohen-Kishik was arrested for espionage and was sentenced to death. Her sentence, though, was reduced to 20 years of hard labor because she was a mother of seven children. She was released from jail in a secret prisoner exchange following the Six Day War. She then moved to Jerusalem with her family, where she spent the rest of her long life. Cohen-Kishik was honored with
Wherever you go....AMIGO!
INTERNATIONAL Cellphones SIM cards Wifi devices Unlimited Data Unlimited Texting U.S. Number available New Location
359C Central Ave. Lawrence, New York 11559
www.amigous.com
1(888)amigous.com
lighting the torch at the Independence Day ceremony in 2007. “I never worked for a prize or for glory,” she said at the time. “I did what I did because I wanted to, because I loved the country and I wanted to help its establishment.” She is survived by her seven children, many grandchildren, and dozens of great-grandchildren.
Post-Six Day War Cabinet Transcripts Released
In the days following the Six Day War of 1967, there was a lot of debate in the Israeli government concerning
what to do with the spoils. Israel had defeated the Egyptian, Syrian, Jordanian, Iraqi and Lebanese armies and had taken control of all of Jerusalem, the Sinai Peninsula, Golan Heights, Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Along for the ride were about one million Palestinians who now fell under Israeli control. Never before heard or seen recordings and transcripts of top Israeli officials discussing what should be done at the time have been released by Israel’s state archives. The security cabinet transcripts are being made public for the first time and are available on the internet. In the documents, Levi Eshkol, the prime minister in 1967, clearly lays out his vision for what should be done with the Golan Heights after the Six Day War. Eshkol felt that Israel should return the Golan Heights to Syria and the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt in order to facilitate a peace agreement. “We want a peace and peace treaties, not ceasefire agreements, and we are not interested in temporary resolutions. We’ve had them for 19 years already and that’s enough for us,” Eshkol said at the time. “Make it clear to foreign figures, especially the United States, that we will not move
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
25
26
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
from this position, no matter the pressures,” he said. “We’ve turned to peace. We went to war three times in order to reach peace treaties,” Eshkol said. Chaim Moshe Shapira, a religious minister at the time, interjects on the transcripts, protesting, “We didn’t go to war. The war happened.” The West Bank was a hot topic issue right away and generated some heated debates in the Knesset. Some ministers supported the annexation of the region, while others wanted to offer its residents an “autonomous region.” Still others wanted a canton system, like in Switzerland. Eshkol warned against settling the West Bank, saying that even a “man like Yosef Weiss” — a prominent member of the Jewish National Fund — “said we shouldn’t run back to the Etzion Bloc.” Menachem Begin is also on the transcripts making recommendations on what to do with the one million West Bank residents. He wished to annex the entire area and only offer citizenship after seven years had passed. “When a country annexes an area that was not until then under its sovereignty, it has to give the residents a certain transfer period to decide on the option of staying and taking the citizenship of the annexing country or preferring to leave and keep their previous citizenship,” Begin told his fellow ministers.
IDF Seizes Terror Compensation Money As part of a large-scale operation to cripple the Hamas infrastructure in Chevron, Israeli police have seized property of families of terrorists, including the families of those responsible for the kidnapping and murder of Eyal Yifrach, Gil-Ad Shaer and Naftali Frankel, Hy”d, in 2014. The police seized thousands of shekels, two vehicles, and two computers from the families of the terrorists responsible for their murders. Hamas gives out funds to the families of those that terrorize the Jewish people in order to encourage violence and recruit new operatives. In similar raids carried out in February, police seized more than 200,000 shekels that had been given to the families of seven terrorists in East Jerusalem. Police reported that all of the suspects had been given cash following deadly
attacks that had been carried out as far back as 1994. The Palestinian Authority has laws which guarantee steady payments to members of dead terrorist families and imprisoned terrorists. Based on their current laws, all families of dead terrorists are paid a monthly minimum of NIS 1,500. Widows get NIS 400 and the killer’s children each get NIS 200. There is currently a bill making its way through the United States legislature called the Taylor Force Act which would require the U.S. State Department to cut funds to the PA if it does not end its martyr compensation system. The bill is named for a former U.S. Army officer who was murdered by a Palestinian in Israel last year.
Palestinians Protest in Day of Rage
Palestinian riots erupted in several places in the West Bank and along the Gaza border late last week. The violent demonstrators burned tires and threw rocks at Israeli security and police forces. An Israeli soldier and a Border Policeman were wounded by thrown rocks near the West Bank village of Aboud. The security personnel responded with non-lethal disbursement techniques. The riots were called for by Hamas. The terrorist organization, in an attempt to inflame Palestinian streets ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit, called for a “day of rage.” They also claimed to be throwing rocks at soldiers in solidarity with Palestinian prisoners that are holding a hunger strike. The Palestinian Red Crescent reported that 30 to 40 people were injured by Israeli forces during the day of rage. The injuries were from rubber bullets and tear gas. One man in Gaza was reportedly in serious condition and two others were said to have suffered moderate injuries following their riots.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Anti-Trump Media Bias
ken about negatively over 80 percent of the time. Comparatively, Obama received 59 percent positive reports in his first 100 days, Bush got 43 percent positive reviews, and Clinton got 40 percent. It seems that Donald Trump’s blasting of the media for their hostile coverage of him is grounded in reality.
LI Town’s Ugly Past
Donald Trump has claimed for a long time that the media is biased against him. A new study conducted at Harvard has attempted to examine just how accurate his accusations are. The Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy analyzed the media coverage Trump received by 10 major networks and print outlets during his first 100 days in office. In the United States they analyzed CNN, NBC, CBS, Fox News, The New York Times, The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal. They also took into account the BBC, the UK’s Financial Times and the German public broadcaster ARD. The academics at Shorenstein found that Trump was spoken about with a negative tone in as many as 98% of reports. He was subjected to significantly more hostile reporting styles than any of the three previous administrations. CNN and NBC both had a negative tone 93 percent of the time they were reporting on the president. CBS came in at 91 percent and The New York Times was negative towards the president 87 percent of the time. Fox News was by far the least negative – they only were negative towards Trump 52 percent of the time. When broken down into topics of news, immigration, healthcare, and Russia generated over 85 percent negative coverage. The economy was more evenly reported: 54 percent negative. The only area where Trump got overwhelmingly positive coverage was for his cruise missile attack in Syria. 80 percent of the networks had a positive tone when discussing that story. Donald Trump’s overall tone of coverage compared to the past three presidents is very negative. He is spo-
We like to think that we are living in a very different world than pre-war Germany. We are lucky not to be oppressed and enjoy all the rights of the free world. However, a disturbing and shocking issue was brought into the limelight in 2015 when a Long Island couple was trying to sell their home but faced opposition from the board that ran the village of their community. When Philip Kneer and his then-fiancée, Patricia Flynn, purchased their first home in the exclusive Siegfried Park neighborhood they were required to have a sit-down interview before being allowed to make the purchase. They were quickly approved by the German-American Settlement League’s board of directors back in 1999. According to court documents, before the interview proceeded members of the board looked at them and approved them. They are claiming that they were approved simply because they were white and had German roots. Decades ago, during WWII, German-Americans marched in the streets of the community under a Nazi flag and delivered “Heil Hitler” salutes near the Kneers’ home. The community was founded by Nazi supporters in the 1930s and had been an enclave for training Aryan youth. The German-American Settlement League’s goal was to raise future leaders of America immersed in Nazi ideals. However, since the fall of the Third Reich, the community has distanced itself from its Nazi past. “Hitler” and “Goebbels” streets have been renamed
JOIN US FOR A DISCUSSION ON
Health &Wealth OPTIMIZING YOUR
’S 360° APPROACH TO HEALTHY LIVING FOR OLDER ADULTS Wednesday, June 14 | 7-9 PM Bnos Bais Yaakov
613 Beach 9th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 – REFRESHMENTS PROVIDED –
YOUR CHALLENGING QUESTIONS TO BE ADDRESSED: n Depression in older adults n Caregiving questions n I’m in a triple decker generation sandwich!
Can you help? n Estate planning - is this for ME? PRESENTERS:
Lawrence Gabe, Esq. OHEL LIFETIME CARE FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBER •••
Harriet Blank, LCSW DIRECTOR OF GERIATRICS AT OHEL •••
Jonathan Gudema, Esq. PLANNED GIVING ADVISORS
CORPORATE SPONSOR: OHEL Office: 3611 14th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11218 Ph: 718-972-9338 | development@ohelfamily.org | www.ohelfamily.org
27
28
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Far Rockaw ay
OPEN HOUS E 13 7 LAWRENC E AVE, LAWRENCE, NY 11559 WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21
7:30 PM
NEW LOCATION... RIGHT HERE IN FAR ROCKAWAY!
EXCEPTIONALLY...
AFFORDABLE CONVENIENT RESPECTED
ACCELERATED DEGREES… B.A. SOCIAL SCIENCES BSW – SOCIAL WORK – New M.S. IN EDUCATION/SPECIAL ED DEGREES OFFERED THROUGH CONCORDIA COLLEGE-NY
CHECK OUT OUR EXTENSIVE LIST OF FULLY ONLINE DEGREES THROUGH SARA SCHENIRER ANYWHERE
For more information or to schedule a private consultation
PLEASE CONTACT MRS. SHOSHANNA JAEGER (347) 675 3357 OR SJAEGER@SARASCH.COM
and no Nazi flag is displayed as it once was. But many inconspicuous bylaws remain in effect, including rules about prospective buyers, intended to keep all minorities out of the enclosed community. The Kneers’ lawsuit alleges violations of the Fair Housing Act. They claimed the subtle bylaws prevented them from being able to sell their house to prospective buyers. According to the league, residents don’t own the land their homes sit on; they lease plots from the league, giving them the right to dictate who can and who cannot live in Siegfried Park. When the couple outgrew their two bedroom house the league bylaws prohibited them from advertising in any real estate publications. When they complained to the league’s board president that they were having trouble finding buyers, they were told “these rules were not going to be changed because the members wanted to keep it the way it is.” At a membership meeting shortly afterward, a motion to let the Kneers put a “for sale” sign in their yard was rejected. At the time of the lawsuit, the German-American Settlement League’s president Robert Kessler told The New York Times that the community had moved on from its racist past. “Most people don’t even know any of this happened here; it hardly comes up,” he said. Of the Kneers, Kessler said then: “They’re just bitter they couldn’t get the price they wanted for their home.” A year ago, the Kneers received a payout of $175,000 from the league for damages and attorney fees. State prosecutors became involved because “there still wasn’t a significant turnover after the private settlement,” Assistant Attorney General Diane Lucas said. “We didn’t want it to just be changes in policies and procedures without an actual effect.” This week, two years after the suit, state prosecutors announced that they had settled with the German-American Settlement League to repair nearly a century of racially discriminatory housing practices. New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said in a statement that the league’s “discriminatory practices were a remnant of a disgraceful past that has no place in New York or anywhere. This agreement will once and for all put an end to the GASL’s discrimination, ensuring that all New Yorkers are afforded equal access to housing opportunities — regardless of their race or national origin.”
Babies: No Juice for You
Skip the apple juice aisle in the grocery. Although many keep a bottle or two for their toddlers, new guidelines released by the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend not giving children under 1 years old any juices at all. Until now the academy advised parents to wait till 6 months, but because of the rapid increase of obesity and growing concern about tooth decay the group increased the suggested age. This is the first revision to recommendations regarding juices since 2001. “We couldn’t really see any reason why juice was still part of the potential recommendation for 6- to 12-month-old kids,” explained Dr. Steven A. Abrams, chairman of the Department of Pediatrics at the Dell Medical School at the University of Texas and co-author of the policy statement. “We recommend breastfeeding or formula in that age group, and there really isn’t any need or beneficial role for juice, so we kind of made that adjustment.” Abrams added, “It wasn’t ‘some magical new science’” that triggered the change, rather “this [guideline] hadn’t been looked at in a long time, so we thought it was time to take a close look.” “The problem is, parents will stick a bottle or sippy cup in the kid’s mouth and kind of leave it there all day. That’s not good from the calorie-intake perspective, and it’s sure not good for the teeth,” Abrams said. “What happens is, the kid then gets used to all the sugar, and then they won’t drink water.” Once your baby reaches the 1 year milestone, the academy includes 100% fresh or reconstituted fruit juice as part of a healthy well-balanced diet. Of course, juice is only allowed in moderation; the suggested daily amount is 4 ounces. Medical experts caution to avoid serving juice in a bottle or sippy cup, since that often forms an all-day habit. For children
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
29
Liliane
sarina.cooper@gmail.com
FLOWERS • EVENTS • DESIGN
Accepting all your last minute orders! Download the full Shavuos catalog from our website.
Wishing all of our customers and friends a Chag Sameach! 8455389019
9179749834
www.boutiqeliliane.com
boutiqueliliane
Located in the Five Towns servicing the Tri-State Area.
sweetliliane.ny@gmail.com
30
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Perhaps a glass of water or milk would be a good idea during mealtime.
NOT SURE WHERE TO TAKE YOUR FAMILY FOR SUMMER BREAK?
Times Square Chaos
• Destination Planning
PEYD has partnered with TravelbyEtc, a boutique vacation
• NYC Metro Area Excursions
concierge to handle all aspects of your trip. From researching
• Safari & Far East
the hottest destinations, to finding you that perfect hotel, to
• Jersey Shore / Poconos All-inclusive
planning your trip itinerary... you can count on PEYD to get you where you need to go
ASK US HOW YOU CAN USE YOUR POINTS TO PAY FOR YOUR NEXT DREAM VACATION!
• Anniversary & Special Occasions
SPECIAL RATES
at Marriott Hotels!!
CALL TODAY! 888.404.PEYD (7393) | TRAVELWITHPEYD.COM | VACATIONS@PEYDTRAVEL.COM
between four- and six-years-old, the academy allows 4 to 6 ounces of juice each day. Children between 7- and 18-years-old should have no more than 8 ounces (or 1 cup) of juice a day, making up one of the recommended daily 2 to 2½ cups of fruit. Another interesting point the academy mentions in the recently released journal is to avoid unpas-
teurized juice products. Grapefruit juice should not be served to children taking certain medications – ibuprofen, flurbiprofen, warfarin, phenytoin, fluvastatin and amitriptyline – because it can interfere with the medication’s effects. The group also reminded parents that juice does not help treat dehydration or diarrhea. The new guidelines surely have
dentists around the nation rejoicing. In the dental community juice drinking is viewed as an unhealthy habit for teeth. Dentists say that the high levels of sugar intake increase risk of cavities, particularly when children sip slowly on sugary drinks via a bottle or sippy cup since it exposes teeth to sugar for a prolonged amount of time.
It was an idyllic late morning on Thursday in Times Square last week. Suddenly, the calm was shattered by a car speeding onto the sidewalk, plowing into pedestrians. The driver kept his foot on the gas pedal for a few blocks before a traffic barrier forced the vehicle to stop. Sadly, Alyssa Elsman, an 18-year-old senior in high school from Michigan, lost her life in the chaos. Her 13-yearold sister, who was walking alongside her, was injured as well. In all, 22 people were hurt during the high-speed attack by Richard Rojas. According to police reports, Rojas jumped the curb at 7th Avenue and W. 42nd Street and then sped three blocks to W. 45th Street where he struck a metal stanchion. On Friday in court, Manhattan prosecutors said that Rojas told police upon his arrest that he hoped to “kill them all” and that officers should have shot him. He also told them he was “hearing voices.” After the car was stopped by the barrier, Rojas exited his vehicle and ran, stumbling, through Times Square before being tackled by officers and bystanders. Police officials and Mayor de Blasio were quick to assure the public that the attack was not terror-related. “At the root of this from what we know so far is an untreated mental health issue likely going back decades,” the mayor said. Rojas, 26, is charged with aggravated vehicular homicide, 20 counts of attempted murder and second-degree murder. A former Navy serviceman, he had previous run-ins with the law. The Bronx native was arrested for DWI twice which led to a dishonorable discharge from the Navy in 2014. He was also arrested for menacing.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Roger Ailes Dies at 77 King in the Clouds
Last week Roger Ailes died at the age of 77. He was an executive, media consultant, and founder and one-time Chairman and CEO of Fox News and the Fox Television Stations Group. Ailes resigned in July 2016 amid controversy. Ailes, an outspoken conservative, was a media consultant for Republican presidents Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and George H. W. Bush. He also advised Rudy Giuliani during his first mayoral campaign. Most recently, he was an adviser to the Donald Trump campaign, where he assisted with debate preparation. At his funeral on Saturday in Palm Beach he was remembered as a “patriot” and a man with a “big heart.” The service was small and exclusive; there were fewer than 100 people in attendance. Fox News commentator Sean Hannity eulogized Ailes saying, “I wouldn’t be what I am today without Roger. He saw things in people that no one else would see. He is an American patriot at the highest level.” Rush Limbaugh, another close friend and fellow conservative, described Ailes as “an American original.” Ailes, though, wasn’t beloved by all. He took a lot of heat, particularly amongst liberals. His young son, Zachary, 18, said, “I loved my father. He considered how much certain people hated him as a measure of success.” Ailes died on May 18 after falling and hitting his head at his home the previous week. The Palm Beach County Medical Examiner attributed his death to a subdural hematoma, aggravated by hemophilia. His wife, Elizabeth, 57, announced his death in a statement on the Drudge Report: “I am profoundly sad and heartbroken to report that my husband, Roger Ailes, passed away this morning.”
For the past 21 years, some KLM passengers were privileged to have the King of the Netherlands flying their plane. Last week, King Willem-Alexander told his national newspaper that he will be retiring from his regular “guest pilot” position on KLM’s fleet of Fokker 70 planes. He will be retraining to fly Boeing 737s as the Fokkers are being phased out of service. His Highness did not keep it a secret that he was flying passenger planes for fun. No one knew, though, how often he did it. Because he is a “guest flier,” the king is always designated co-pilot and De Telegraaf reported that he flew in that capacity twice a month. King Willem-Alexander explained that flying is a relaxing distraction. “You have an aircraft, passengers and crew. You have responsibility for them,” the king told De Telegraaf. “You can’t take your problems from the ground into the skies. You can completely disengage and concentrate on something else. That, for me, is the most relaxing part of flying.” When flying, most people don’t even know the king is in the cockpit. “Before Sept. 11, the cockpit door was open. People regularly came to have a look and thought it was nice or surprising that I was sitting there,” he said, adding that very few people recognize him as he walks through Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport in KLM uniform and cap. Now, due to security, most passengers rarely get to glance at their pilots. Even so, when the king make announcements to passengers, many don’t recognize his voice. “Most people don’t listen
31
32
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
בס“ד
SUMMER SAVINGS
Twin or 33” Mattress
$125 44”, 48” or Full 54” set Firm or Plush
$375
Includes 1 Mattress-Boxspring-Bed Frame
48” or Full 54”
WEEKLY DELIVERIES TO THE
Firm or Plush
$675
Includes 1 Mattress-Boxspring-Bed Frame
CATSKILLS Throughout the entire summer season.
Twin or 33“ Set Sleep Series
$245
Includes 1 Mattress-Boxspring-Bed Frame
Officially rats are social, clean animals that are highly intelligent. Perhaps you can convince your mother they’ll be the perfect pet. If you’d like to try them out, though, head to San Fran to hang out with a rodent. Tickets for the rat café run $49.99 and include coffee, tea or water and a breakfast pastry. After dining, you get 15 minutes to spend with the “ambassador rats.” If you ask me, somethin’ just ain’t raaht.
Marriage Marathon
Brooklyn
5211 New Utrecht Ave., Brooklyn NY ▪ 718.438.3933
Cedarhurst
126 Cedarhurst Ave., Cedarhurst NY ▪
516.792.1191
Monsey
401 Rt. 59 (Atrium Plaza), Monsey NY ▪ 845.414.9014
Eclipse
I N T E R N AT I O N A L
anyway,” he explained. Seems flying may be a bit humbling for a monarch.
The Rat Café People have been clamoring to cat cafés that have been popping up all over the world. Patrons get to sip their favorite steaming beverage with
furry felines sitting on their laps. But now other species want to get in on the action and rats are the latest animal to be in the spotlight. For two days this summer San Francisco will host a pop-up rat café. There, coffee and pastries will be served to customers in the company of a bevy of rats. The San Francisco Dungeon, a tourist attraction where actors reenact bits of the region’s his-
tory, will be hosting the event July 1 and July 7. Lest you’re concerned you’ll be dining with New York’s finest rodents, these rats are actually adoptable domestic pets – is there really such a thing?! – from Rattie Ratz, a Bay Area rat rescue group. Like the rat nibbling on your muffin? You can take him home and have him join you for crumpets every afternoon.
Marriage is like a race, right? Well, maybe not. This couple, though, started off their marriage in a race to the finish line. On Saturday, Alexander Salazar and Krissa Cetner both ran in a New York half marathon. But six miles into the running the pair stopped for a few minutes – to get married. The couple tied the knot in Prospect Park and were attired in “bride” and “groom” outfits. The sweaty groom wore a tuxedo t-shirt and the equally sweaty bride wore a white shirt with flowers on the front and the words “BKHalfWedding” on the back. They also wore “bride” and “groom” bibs. “It was very surreal,” Alexander admitted. The “shotgun” wedding was Krissa’s idea. She came up with it a while ago while running and Alexander was quick to agree. “Running is a big part of how we got together,” he said. Some of their wedding guests met them at the park to join in the festiv-
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
33
34
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
me a pack of Starburst a few years before the project started. As his favorite candy he began to save grocery bags full of wrappers for me,” she said.
After folding all those myriad squares Emily used elastic thread to sew them into links onto fabric to create her rainbow-colored dress. But she didn’t stop there. She covered a pair of shoes in wrappers and made a corsage out of a Starburst bag. Because, after all, what says style more than Starburst?
From Flea Market to Sotheby’s
ities. After the ceremony was over, though, it was back to the races and the newly joined couple finished the half marathon together. Alexander acknowledged that marriage is not a race. “Marriage is like a marathon, it’s not a sprint,” he said. “There’s a lot of years ahead of you in a marriage and sometimes you’re both really into it and can push each other and sometimes the other partner has to help pull you through whatever challenge lies ahead. “You both have to keep each oth-
er motivated in a race and in a marriage.” In any case, we know that in this race, both Alexander and Krissa won first prize.
Clothing Confection When your husband loves Starburst candy you end up with a lot of empty candy wrappers. What to do
with all those colorful squares? Emily Seilhamer went to work and created a most delicious dress. “I’ve been saving Starburst wrappers diligently (with the help of friends and family) for 4 years to create this dress,” Seilhamer wrote on her Facebook page. “After enough were saved I organized them into colors, ironed them, folded them into links, and made candy wrapper chains.” She made the dress to remind her of the day she met her husband. “My husband and I met when he offered
In just 30 years, this piece of jewelry has shot up in value. Actually, the person who bought it just didn’t know what she or he had – until this year. Around three decades ago a person bought a ring for about $15 at a flea market. They thought it was a piece of costume jewelry and were intrigued by its look. In fact, the owner of the gem wore the ring every day, unaware of its intrinsic value. In general, diamonds from the 19th century are not as brilliant as today’s diamonds as they were not cut to emphasize their clarity and radiance. Fast forward to 2017. The owner had the ring appraised and found out that he or she was walking around with a 26.27 carat white diamond ring. The gem is expected to fetch more than $450K when it is auctioned at Sotheby’s next month. I wonder who sold them the ring.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
35
36
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the
Community Arista Installation and Awards Night at MAY
L
ast Tuesday evening, Mesivta Ateres Yaakov held its annual Rabbi Elchonon Zomber A”H Arista Installation and Awards Night, where tribute was paid to the myriad accomplishments of the MAY talmidim. This year’s program was particularly auspicious as it now honors the memory of Rabbi Elchonon Zomber, z”l, an alumnus and veteran teacher at MAY who passed way last year. The Zomber family graciously endowed the MAY Arista Society in his honor. Consistent with MAY’s emphasis on developing all aspects of each talmid, excellence in many areas was recognized: Limudei Kodesh, Midos, Tefilah, Academics, Athletics, Extracurricular Activities and Community Service. Menahel Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe introduced the program focusing on the small acts of greatness performed by the
MAY talmidim that can often go unnoticed and how the Mesivta encourages and publically recognizes them. The first order of the night was the installation of the incoming Student Government under the helm of incoming President Pesach Weiss. Pesach addressed the 300+ attendees, thanking the rabbeim and teachers who guided him and his fellow students to
the achievements being celebrated that evening. He noted how the Mesivta consistently endeavors to challenge talmidim, while maintaining its signature warm atmosphere. Awards were then presented to over 100 students for excellence and progress in a wide variety of areas. Rabbi Yaffe was joined by General Studies Principal Rabbi Sam Rudansky and Assistant Men-
ahel/Assistant Principal Rabbi Yossi Bennett in presenting these awards. Rabbi Sam Rudansky, General Studies Principal, commented, “The evening serves as an opportunity to recognize those students who excel in different areas of the high school experience. That may range from academics for some, to community service, extracurricular activities
and even athletics for others. It’s an evening of tremendous nachas for parents and grandparents.” The evening closed with the installation of over 50 Arista honors students and the recitation of the Arista pledge led by incoming Arista Co-Presidents Tzvi Adler and Yekutiel Weiss followed by refreshments. Mazel tov!
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
37
Free Training! Free Kit! Opioids kill.
You can save a life. Get informed. Get equipped. Get naloxone.
SAVE SOME ONE Helpline • Support Groups • Referrals CONFIDENTIAL
www.MaskParents.Org
718.758.0400
38
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Scenes from the White Shul Dinner Hundreds of friends and supporters filled The Sands last week to show their admiration to the White Shul and its myriad programs for the community. The dinner marked 95 years of this thriving, vibrant, and energized kehillah. It also paid tribute to two outstanding local families – Ushi and Esti Stahler, Guests of Honor, and Zusha and Rivka Agin, Young Leadership Awardees.
PHOTO CREDIT: HERSHEL BARON
SKA Students Advocate at NORPAC Mission
T
wenty five Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls students, accompanied by SKA faculty member Mrs. Rikki Fishbein, parents and grandparents, joined over one thousand citizen activists on Wednesday, May 17, at NORPAC’s Annual Mission to Washington to
advocate for a stronger U.S.-Israel relationship with members of Congress. The SKA students initially attended a briefing session at the Warner Theatre with presentations by Congressional leaders. They then split into groups to meet with members
Look for our special Shavuos issue in stores on erev Shavuos, Tuesday, May 30. Don’t make yom tov without TJH!
of Congress and their staff to discuss pressing issues relating to U.S.-Israel concerns. Among the representatives the girls met with were Senator Ted Cruz (Texas), Congresswoman Kathleen Rice (NY), Congressman Gene Green (Texas), Congressman John Larson, (Conn.) Senator Michel B. Enzi (Wyoming), and Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (Ohio) among others. Sophomore Shira Cohen shared her enthusiasm over the mission. “It was so reassuring to see how much support for Israel we found in Washington. Every legislator we spoke to, Jewish or non-Jewish, expressed their belief that Israel is the Jewish homeland and that the Kotel is part of Jerusalem.” All the SKA students on the mission noted how encouraged they were
SKA freshman Emma Spirgel with Congresswoman Joyce Beatty of Ohio
by their Israel advocacy. Our thanks go to Mrs. Fishbein for chaperoning and to principal Raizi Chechik for arranging this trip.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Around the Community
Stars of Israel Receives JEIC Trophy at 2017 Innovator’s Retreat
R
abbi Baruch Gottesman, Head of School, and Rabbi Yehuda Schwartzberg, Founder/Educational Director, traveled to Boston to participate in the 2017 Innovator’s Retreat and to receive their trophy celebrating being the 2016 grantees of the prestigious Jewish Education Innovation Challenge awarded by the Mayberg Family Foundation. The JEIC promotes educational innovators who seek to disrupt the complacency in Jewish Education by introducing game changing approaches to teaching our sacred Jewish texts. Stars of Israel won this award by developing a revolutionary system in which technology is used to customize the learning according to each child’s individual needs and learning preferences. Rabbi Schwartzberg presented the learning system to a wide array of top educators from across the country and the Jewish spectrum who were blown away by the power of the program and even further impressed when shown the progress that the students of Stars of Israel have accomplished this year. Taking boys from public school who do not know the Aleph Bet and catapulting them to reading Mishnayot and Gemara on their own within a very short time. While Rabbis Gottesman and
Schwartzberg were at the retreat, the boys in the yeshiva had a very busy week of their own! The week began with a schoolwide Lag B’Omer BBQ at the home of their rebbe, Rabbi Sillman. Later in the week, the whole school then went on a field trip to The Living Torah Museum in Brooklyn. The boys were able to see ancient artifacts from the times of the Bais Hamikdash. This experience really helped the boys understand their studies and brought to life the times of the Mishna and Gemara, which until now were just abstract ideas. Rabbi Shimon Deutsch kept them captivated and at the edge of their seats for over an hour. He commented to Rabbi Naphtali Sudwerts, principal, how impressed he was with the talmidim’s passion for knowledge and he even presented each and every boy with a special prize to take home! On Friday the eighth grade had the z’chus of meeting with Rabbi Dovid Harris, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivas Chofetz Chaim. Rabbi Harris shared words of Torah and wisdom with these boys who are on the brink of moving on to the next stage of their Jewish education, yeshiva high school. For boys who not too long ago were in public school being in the presence of this genuine gadol was very eye-opening for them.
39
40
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Shulamith Confidence Brunch
O
ver a Sunday brunch of French toast and iced coffee, our students and their mothers explored the essential topic of girls’ confidence. The Confidence Brunch, featuring Allison Josephs of Jew in the City, focused on empowering our girls to find their voice and take pride in their Torah values. Josephs’ organization, Jew in the City, is aimed at transforming the conversation about Orthodox Judaism in the media and has reached millions of people in over 180 countries. Josephs presented a fresh outlook on tziniut and encouraged our students to be confident in their inner beauty and grace. A baalat teshuvah, Allison recalled how she was always taught by the secular world that beautiful women should flaunt their good looks. Citing social media, peer pressure and American culture, from the red carpet to fashion magazines, American girls are taught that they are prized first and foremost for their physical appearance.
From a young age, girls are taught to wear substantially less clothing than boys. Allison noted that as she learned about Torah she felt empowered by tziniut. She retold how as she dressed more modestly, her peers were challenged to respect her for her personality and character. Another added benefit of dressing modestly, Josephs recognized that skirts easily identified her as a frum Jewish girl, and helped her connect quickly
with the frum network at Columbia – giving her access to wonderful new friends and community. Josephs is smart, stylish and fun – it was easy to see why so many were charmed by her presentation! Growing up as a teenage girl in today’s world is hard. Girls feel pulled in many directions – from social media, modern culture and peer pressure to project an almost impossible image of perfection. Creating
the space to name those challenges is an important part of teenage development. Using Brene Brown’s Gifts of Imperfections as a jumping off point, our mother-daughter pairs investigated the merits of authenticity and conviction, even when not perfect. The students then created their own hashtags to boldly shape their own confidence narratives.
Siach Yitzchok Chinuch Symposium
O
n Monday, May 15, over 200 women from Far Rockaway, Five Towns, and neighboring communities joined together at the Renov residence in Lawrence, NY, for the 2nd Annual Chinuch Symposium hosted by the Women’s League of Siach Yitzchok. This year’s event was entitled, “Our Homes: Developing Potential, Defining Priorities.” The evening commenced with a delicious dessert and salad buffet, along with an art show by the talented artist and Far Rockaway resident Yaeli Vogel. Paintings included beautiful
and original water color depictions of the Old City and a chuppah celebration, among many other color-rich scenes. The main program began with words of introduction by Rebbetzin Hindy Sitnick. She was followed by Mrs. Debbie Greenblatt, a popular lecturer for Gateways, and Mrs. Chani Juravel, LCSW, noted author and therapist. Both speakers offered practical guidance, mixed with humor and inspiration, on how to raise children to not only thrive in our challenging, present-day world, but also have the
desire to grow spiritually. The women also had the opportunity to participate in an exciting Chinese Auction with baskets filled with amazing gifts from many local Five Towns stores including Irene Wigs, HK Jewels, Clementine, Goldmine, Quorum, The Paper Place, TipToe Boutique, 925 Sterling, Blue Door Books, Fame, Pious Pizza, Dimples, A Little Different, Miri Couture, Legaacy, Yetti Katz Wigs, Upper Class Hats, LOL Kids, Traditions, Suit Central, Orly, Double Header, David’s Den and more.
Winners of the Chinese Auction included the following women: Deborah Addi, Chaya Ebert, Ruki Renov, Dara Cooper, Tania Weissman, Sara Koppelman, Yocheved Lichtman, Aviva Eisenberg, Nechama Shechter, Adina Ribacoff, Jen Eisenberg, Chaya Soberman, Tova Katz, and Rachel Segal. To purchase a MP3 recording of the evening’s shiurim, please contact Siach Yitzchok at (718) 3276247 or email womensleague@siachyitzchok.org.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
41
42
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Kollel Tiferes Avos Breakfast The Seventh Annual Breakfast of Kollel Tiferes Avos under the leadership HaRav Dov Bressler, shlita, was held on Sunday morning at Congregation Shaaray Tefila in Lawrence. A siyum in Meseches Avodah Zorah in memory of Rabbi Moshes Rabinowitz, zt”l, was made by Mr. N. Finkiel and Mr. M. Alter. The Chavrusa of the Year Award went to Rabbi Rafael Skaist and Rabbi Shaya Kivelevitz. The guest speaker was Rabbi Hagaon Naftali Jaeger, Rosh Hayeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv. The Master of Ceremonies was Rabbi Betzalel Korn, Ma’ara Dasra of Congregation Keneseth Meir. PHOTO CREDIT: IVAN H NORMAN
Rabbi Dov Bressler, Rabbi Rafael Skaist, Rabbi Shayah Kivelevitz and Rabbi Betzalel Korn
Mr. N. Finkiel and Mr. M. Alter who made the siyum
Rabbi Yehuda Kaplan, Rabbi Dov Bressler, Rabbi Shayah Kivelevitz, Rabbi Kenneth Hain and Rabbi Rafael Skaist On Monday, May 15, HAFTR hosted its 10th Annual Golf Spring Classic & Spa Day honoring the memory of Jacob Greenberg. Jacob, a former HAFTR student, was a vibrant young boy who truly represented a symbol of excellence for our school and our community. The event took place at the Seawane Club in Hewlett and more than 120 guests were in attendance. The day’s events included golfing and spa services for our male guests, as well as a painting event and spa services for our female guests. Our golf outing is our second largest annual fundraiser of the year, with all proceeds benefitting the students’ educational experience at HAFTR. The event concluded with a phenomenal dinner accompanied by live auctions and raffle prizes.
Yeshiva University High School for Girls Greets its Newest Members
T
his week, Yeshiva University High School for Girls welcomed the newest incoming members of the institution, from the highest levels of the University’s administration to its youngest students. Central was pleased to welcome YU President Elect Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman last week. In preparation for his new role, which will commence on June 5, Rabbi Berman has been making the rounds of the schools within the University. While visiting Central, Rabbi Berman ate lunch with the faculty, who each shared what inspires them as they come to work every day. He also met with the administration, learning about the values and culture of our school. Seniors
Gitty Klein, Molly Ottensoser, and Nina Siegel served as student representatives who helped paint a picture of student life at Central. Says Mrs. Aliza Konig, “Rabbi Berman left with a well-rounded understanding of our student body, our exceptional faculty, and what makes us the standout, values-driven institution that we are.” These values were evident as well at Central’s annual Freshman Fair to welcome new faces to the building and the school community. The Class of 2021 were greeted by the administration, their future teachers and instructors, and the smiling faces of their soonto-be big sisters in the Class of 2018. After mingling over
some refreshments, groups of incoming students worked together on a chessed project, making water bottles for participants in Yachad Morasha’s summer program. Head of School CB Neugroschl provided some words
of greeting and encouragement, and the incoming students got to know one another as they zipped through a “speed dating” style of ice breaker. Everyone then took advantage of the beautiful weather outside at the fair,
complete with pizza, an ice cream truck, and an inflatable bouncy castle. If the smiling faces and enthusiasm at the fair are any indication, the Central Class of 2021 have an incredible four years ahead of them!
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Shavuos Titles Schottenstein Edition
Midrash Rabbah dedicated by Mr. and Mrs. Elly Kleinman
INTERLINEAR SHAVUOS MACHZOR
CLASSIC ARTSCROLL SHAVUOS MACHZOR Nusach Ashkenaz or Sefard
Nusach Ashkenaz or Sefard
WITH AN ANNOTATED, INTERPRETIVE ELUCIDATION AND ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS
Schottenstein Edition
INTERLINEAR RUTH by Rabbi Menachem Davis
SHAVUOS
by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman
Volumes dedicated by
the Sharfman Family
Full-size (9"x12") Esther and Ruth, complete in one vol.
LET MY NATION SERVE ME
MOTHER OF KINGS
by Yosef Deutsch
by Rabbi Eliezer Ginsburg
KOL DODI ON MEGILLAS RUTH
SFAS EMES: THE THREE FESTIVALS
AKDAMUS
THE BOOK OF RUTH
by Rabbi Avrohom Yaakov Salamon
by Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz & Rabbi Nosson Scherman
SHAVUOS
THE ARTSCROLL CHILDREN’S BOOK OF RUTH
Compact-size (7”x10”) Ruth by Rabbi David Feinstein
by Rabbi Yosef Stern
WITH BINA, BENNY AND CHAGGAI HAYONAH by Yaffa Ganz
by Shmuel Blitz
D S 29/17 N E / E 5 L A Y S N DA MO
T S LA CE N A H
30
C
%
00 OVER 1TO S E TS S E CHOO ! F RO M
OFF SALE list price
TREAT YOURSELF AND STOCK UP FOR ALL YOUR GIFT GIVING NEEDS! COMPLETE LISTING OF ALL BEST-SELLING SETS INCLUDED IN SALE:
4Aryeh Kaplan Anthology by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan 4Aleinu L’Shabei’ach by Rabbi Yitzchok Zilberstein 4Baal HaTurim (Davis Edition) 4Bereishis (Tanach Series) by Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz 4Book of Mitzvos / Sefer HaChinuch (Schottenstein Edition) 4Call of the Torah by Rabbi Ellie Munk 4Children’s Siddur and Tehillim by Shmuel Blitz 4Chinuch Chumash (Menukad / Non-Menukad) 4Daily Dose of Torah Series 1, 2, and 3 (Kleinman Edition) 4Family Haggadah Leatherette 4Family Zemiros Sets — Interlinear and Leatherette 4Festivals in Halachah by Rabbi S. Y. Zevin 4Insights in the Torah by Rabbi Zalman Sorotzkin 4Interlinear Chumash (Schottenstein Edition)
4Interlinear Siddur and Tehillim (Schottenstein Edition) 4Jewish History — A Trilogy by Rabbi Berel Wein 4Kosher by Design Cookbook Series by Susie Fishbein 4Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (Kleinman Edition) 4Laws of Shabbos by Rabbi S.B. Cohen 4Lesson a Day by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman 4Machzor — Classic and Interlinear 4Midrash Rabbah (Kleinman Edition) 4Megillos (Tanach Series) by Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz 4Later Prophets (Milstein Edition) 4Mishnah Elucidated (Schottenstein Edition) 4Mishnah Yad Avraham 4Mishnah — Hebrew Edition (Ryzman Edition) 4Studies in the Weekly Parshah by Rabbi Yehuda Nachshoni 4Pirkei Avos Treasury by Rabbi Moshe Lieber
4Ramban on Chumash 4Rashi on Chumash (Sapirstein Edition) 4Rav Lau on Avos 4Early Prophets (Rubin Edition) 4Sand and Stars by Yafffa Ganz 4Schottenstein Edition Talmud Sets 4Sfas Emes by Rabbi Yosef Stern 4Stone Edition Chumash 4Stories My Grandfather Told Me by Zev Greenwald 4Story a Day by G. Sofer 4Tales of Tzaddikim by G. Matov 4Tanach (Stone Edition) 4Tehillim (Tanach Series) by Rabbi A. C. Feuer 4Treasury of Chasidic Tales by Rabbi S. Y. Zevin 4Weekly Midrash
Order now at www.artscroll.com 1-800-MESORAH (637-6724) or visit your local Hebrew bookseller in North America and Europe
43
44
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Cedarhurst Supports the One-of-a-Kind Darkaynu Programs
A
bout 60 people gathered at the home of Gila and Josh Jedwab in Cedarhurst on Lag B’Omer, Sunday, May 14, for a very special afternoon. A diverse crowd of supporters – new friends and old as well as families of students and Darkaynu alumni – spent the first 45 minutes of the event schmoozing and noshing while enjoying some live musical jamming from local musicians Yoel Schmell, Noah Goldstein, and Avidon Moscovitz. In attendance were Yeshivat Darkaynu director Avi Ganz and Darkaynu assistant director Lt. (res) Steve Ga, and comedian/philanthropist/entrepreneur
Ari Teman. The delicious menu was sponsored by Upper Crust on Central Ave. “We like to put the ‘FUN’ back in fundraisin,” says Avi Ganz, and it’s with that in mind that he approached comedian Ari Teman to add some humor to the event. Ari, whose cousin Yoel spent a fantastic year at Darkaynu, was very quick to agree and he had the crowd giggling with about 20 minutes of great comedy. Ari then introduced Steve Gar who spoke about the one-of-a-kind year Darkaynu provides its special students. Steve told of their weekly volunteering on the local army base,
Chatmar Etzion. He recounted how one student, after spending weeks building a path for the soldiers who were, until then, trudging through mud, turned to Steve and said: “I feel like a human being. For the first time in my life, I feel like a human being.” Steve explained that this student, as a result of his having a disability, had always been on the receiving end of other people’s kindness and now, for the first time, he was allowed and encouraged to give to others. The Elaine and Norm Brodsky Darkaynu Programs are part of the Ohr Torah Stone network. They were founded in 2003 as the first
and still only year-in-Israel program for young adults with special needs. Darkaynu students come from all over the world and have a range of abilities and disabilities. During their eight month stay in Israel on a mainstream campus, they learn real and relevant Torah, gain vocational and life skills, and create lasting friendships. Most importantly, they develop a sense of self-esteem and belonging as they explore and discover their own unique place as members of Klal Yisrael.
It was a promising silence; a mystical silence. It embraced every visitor with the knowledge that this moment in time was gilded in greatness.
May Hashem accept our tefillos and transform every supplication into a song of joy.
For more information visit www. Darkaynu.org.il.
Lag B’Omer in New Jersey
L
ast week, thousands flocked to the Bobover ohel in Floral Park Cemetery, located in Monmouth Junction (Deans), New Jersey. They came to ask, to plead, and to thank. They came to cry, to share, and to unburden. They came to the Bobover Rav, Harav R’ Naftali Tzvi Halberstam, zy”a, who had once enigmatically revealed that “R’ Shimon bar Yochai will be with me on Lag B’Omer.” Motzei Shabbos saw an ongoing stream of visitors braving the steady rain throughout all hours of the night. Their passionate tefillos sliced through the darkness, borne aloft on the wings of one who had dedicated his life to the welfare of others. The entire Sefer Tehillim was recited in unison, culminating in an uplifting Shacharis at daybreak.
Sunday’s sunny skies smiled down with hope and promise at the thousands of visitors arriving at the tziyun. Every square inch in the spacious ohel was taken but the buses kept rolling in, bringing Yidden from every segment of society from the tri-state area and beyond. Food and drinks were made available around the clock, in a tent that had been set up to accommodate the crowds. Cars were parked bumper to bumper alongside rows of buses ; a silent testimonial to this day of inspiration. Murmured whispers of tefillah were interwoven with bouts of joyous singing, as hope and reassurance partnered in New Jersey. There were desperate pleas for salvation, intertwined with bursts of gratitude from those who had returned to thank. Most potent of all was the silence.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
FROM
Stories that light up the dark! Meet some great stars …
NEW!
"THE WORLD IS ARTSCROLL'S CLASSROOM"
New by Mordechai Weinberg, LCSW author of best-selling Alive!
NEW!
More stories of people who light up our world
The 4 elements of connecting with anyone
C.B. Weinfeld 4The two girls willing to risk their jobs so a woman can be at her husband’s deathbed … 4The businessman who puts his neshamah before his profits, no matter what the consequences ... 4The father in America who would not miss his daughter’s chuppah, even if it was in Eretz Yisrael, even if it was right after 9/11 and every American airport was closed — and the many people who helped him to get there … As her tens of thousands of fans know from her previous books, C.B. Weinfeld has a genius for finding the stars among us, sharing their remarkable stories and lighting up our lives with them. This is a book of Also by this author: fantastic, unbelievable true A Handful of stories about stars. No – it’s Stars about superstars. Superstars who show us how everyday Another Handful people can be heroes. of Stars
Rabbi Mordechai Weinberger LCSW is a respected therapist, acclaimed public speaker, bestselling author, and popular radio show host who has helped thousands of people build better, more satisfying, and happier lives. Using fascinating case studies, and a considerable dose of humor, Rabbi Weinberger shows us how to identify our own “elements” as well as those of others; how to capitalize on our traits so they lead to success and not disaster; how to balance our natures and complement our strengths, making them even more effective; and how to interpret people’s behavior so we can deal properly with them. Thousands of readers used Rabbi Weinberger’s Alive! book, Alive! to uncover their strengths and potential. Now he offers another incredibly A 10-step effective way to enhance our lives and relationships. guide to a vibrant life It’s fascinating reading – and it works!
You won’t believe it’s low-calorie! NEW OK O COOKB
In Secrets of Skinny Cooking, Victoria Dwek and Shani Taub C.D.C, C.N. show you how you can savor exciting, flavorful, and filling meals... all for a fraction of the calories they’d typically be. Why settle for bland dietetic food when you can enjoy the delectable dishes of Secrets of Skinny Cooking? Over 135 delicious and easy-to-prepare recipes, each with a full-color photo
Family-friendly adaptations, advance prep info, and cooking tips from Victoria Nutritional information, advice, and motivation from Shani
Perfect for Shavuos:
Plenty of gluten-free, sugar-free, low carb, Whole30, and Paleo options
by Victoria Dwek
Available at your local Hebrew bookseller or at www.artscroll.com • 1-800-MESORAH (637-6724)
45
46
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community PHOTO CREDIT: IVAN H NORMAN
Yeshiva Ohr Simcha of Englewood held a Memorial Dinner at the Hilton Woodcliff Lake on Sunday night in memory of the Rosh Hayeshiva, Rabbi Yosef Strassfeld zt”l. A video tribute was presented. Hakaras Hatov Awards were presented to Congregation Ahavath Torah, Congregation Shomrei Emunah, East Hill Synagogue and Kehillat Kesher for their great assistance to the Yeshiva. The Parents of the Year Award was presented to Rabbi and Mrs. Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz. Rabbi Blumenkrantz is the Mara D’asra of Bais Medrash Ateres Yisroel of Far Rockaway. The Alumni of the Year Award was presented to Mr. and Mrs. Eliyahu Chapler of Lakewood. A Memorial Tribute to Rav Joel E. Danishefsky, zt”l, was made.
Rabbi Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz of Far Rockaway accepting the award of Parent of the Year
Rabbi Yisroel Meir Blumenkrantz with his son, Shmuel, who is a student in the yeshiva
Rappelers take a Leap of Faith to Support Emunah of America
S
ome organizations hold silent auctions, but we’re not really the silent type! EMUNAH of America - Over the Edge is an opportunity to push the limits, experience an adventure of a life-time and support Israel. This unique fundraising event is taking place on Sunday, June 11, 2017, at the Berger Organization building in Newark, New Jersey. Over the Edge gives participants the oppor-
tunity to rappel down a 16-story building in a completely safe and controlled environment. EMUNAH is a an organization which provides children in Israel with a Jewish education, a safe and secure environment and opportunities for a productive future. Laurie Szenicer, Chief Development Officer, explains, “It is certainly an over the top event, unlike other peer-to-peer fundraisers,
no training is required. It is an event that is inclusive all ages and abilities. How many people can say they rappelled over a building? Now you can do it and make a difference in the life of a child.” EMUNAH of America’s goal is to raise the necessary funds to support our essential services for children and families at risk in Israel and to raise awareness about the amazing work we do. Donations raised from this event will be sent to EMUNAH in Israel, to ensure that young women will receive a scholarships to the Florence and Joseph Appleman College of Art and Technology; children and teens in one of our 5 residential programs, 8 multipurpose day care centers and 3 emergency shelters will receive the necessary therapeutic treatments and care to ensure they have a chance at breaking the cycle of distress and becoming successful and independent adults. We encourage and welcome teams. Dress in costumes. Over the Edge is a great team building event for compa-
nies, schools and shuls. Challenge colleagues and and fundraise to Toss the Boss all in good fun. It’s a great day for the whole family. If you don’t want to rappel, we do have a “chicken” category – with a donation, you will receive a chicken hat. There will be entertainment for kids, music and kosher BBQ. To donate to Emunah or learn more information about the “Over the Edge” event, visit the Emunah funding website, www.emunahovertheedge.com.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
paintings, mirrors, tables, chairs, sofas, etc.
sunday 10:30 AM - 9 pm moNday 10:30 AM - 7:30 pm 1501 60TH STREET, BROOKLYN, NY 11219
47
48
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community Leah Solomon, a 6th grader at Shulamith School for Girls, participated in this year’s Chidon Hatanach contest, making it to the National Finals in Manhattan. Although Shulamith does not formally participate in the program, Leah studied the entire curriculum, a total of 71 perakim across various sifrei Tanach, independently with her mother and with the help of Mrs. Naomi Munk, a dedicated teacher in Shulamith High School. Commenting on her achievements, Leah said, “When I decided to participate in Chidon Hatanach, I never expected to accomplish this much. I can’t wait to participate again next year.”
Lag B’Omer at Yeshiva Har Torah
I
t was a very special week at Yeshiva Har Torah, filled with fun and joy celebrating Lag B’Omer. On Tuesday the whole school enjoyed the post Lag B’Omer day at the park. It was a meaningful day of bonding between students and teachers. Rebbeim, morot and teachers led off the day with a mini lesson about the
significance of Lag B’Omer and Rabi Shimon Bar Yochai. While the lower school was enjoying their time in the park, the middle school enjoyed an amazing color war! The teams were set to Yerushalayim-related themes to honor the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Yerushalayim Iyr Hakodesh. What an amazing week!
Celebrating 3 Decades, 2 Approaches, 1 Mission: Enhancing Chinuch in America
O
n Wednesday, June 7, Priority-1 will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of its involvement in the enhancement of the chinuch system. The Priority-1 network includes Yeshivos and Kollelim in Far Rockaway and Eretz Yisroel, a Mesivta in Far Rockaway and numerous community and teacher training initiatives. Although primarily known for its trailblazing work with the at-risk community, Priority-1 has taken on a major role in training the community on preventative measures that can be taken in the mainstream chinuch system to enhance a lasting and passionate commitment to Yiddishkeit. At the dinner, Mr. & Mrs. Zev Cohen, friends of Priority-1 for many years, will be receiving the Hakaros Hatov Award. When Hurricane Sandy forced Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh out of its previous home, the decision was made to quickly and cost-effectively build a modular building on our new campus. Mr. Cohen, using his expertise in the fire alarm systems arena, played a major role in coordinating that all of the work be done in a timely fashion. His calm demeanor and positive attitude make it a unique pleasure to work with him, and our Yeshiva is forever grateful to him for all of his time and effort. Mr. & Mrs. Yekusiel Sebrow will be receiving the Young Leadership Award. Lovingly known as “Kus,” Yekusiel has developed a close re-
Hurt? Not Feeling Well?
lationship with Rabbi Shaya Cohen since his days in Yeshiva and has helped the Yeshiva in many ways. He has been instrumental in spreading the message of the Eliezer Institute by organizing shiurim. Lastly, the Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh campus will be formally dedicated by a dear friend of the Yeshiva and the Cohen family, in memory of Rebbetzin Gita Cohen, a”h, the wife of Rabbi Shaya Cohen, yl”c. Rebbetzin Cohen grew up in the house of the gedolei hador of the previous generation. After her mother married HaGaon Rav Lazer Platchinsky, they moved into the two room apartment of her grandfather, Reb Aryeh Levin, The Tzaddik of Yerushalayim, and she lived there throughout her childhood. After marrying Rabbi Cohen, the Rebbetzin came to America, first to the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, where they established the Valley Torah Center, and then to Far Rockaway. She used her expertise of Chumash and Nach and her understanding of the human dynamic to influence countless students and community members. Please join us at our Yeshiva campus, 1213 Bay 25th St. in Far Rockaway, on June 7 to celebrate the accomplishments of Priority-1 over the past 30 years. For more information or to make reservations, please call 516-295-5700 ext. 104, or go online to priority-1.org/dinner-2017.
Dr. Eric Feintuch, D.C., C.C.S.P. Doctor of Chiropractic Chronic pain reduction Ease pain during pregnancy Migraines Chronic sinus infections Drug free pediatric care Chronic ear infections, colic Functional Nutritional Medicine Sports injuries Gentle techniques and trigger point therapy Patient advocacy and 2nd opinion services Late night after work and Sunday hours
1-800 GET WELL (1-800-438-9355) 636 Nutley Place, North Woodmere
Accepting most insurance plans.
25+ years Experience.
Effective Results.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
PRIORITY-1
30TH ANNIVERSARY
DINNER Celebrating
3 DECADES 2 APPROACHES 1 MISSION:
Enhancing Chinuch in America DEDICATING THE YESHIVA ZICHRON ARYEH CAMPUS IN MEMORY OF:
Rebbetzin Gita Cohen A”H הרבנית גיטל בת הרב אליעזר מנוח ע”ה
MR. & MRS.
Honoring
ZEV COHEN
YEKUSIEL SEBROW
Hakaras Hatov Award
JUNE 7, 2017 DINNER CHAIRMEN AVRAHAM BURGER MARK FRIEDMAN
MR. & MRS.
Young Leadership Award ON OUR CAMPUS
6:30 PM
1213 BAY 25TH STREET FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11691 JAY KESTENBAUM IRVING LANGER DOV WOLOWITZ
HONORARY CHAIRMEN
DAVID BERKOWITZ BENTZION FRIEDMAN LENARD LIBERMAN DAVID STRIKS DAVID CHEPLOWITZ ABIE ROTENBERG CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
TORONTO, ONTARIO
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
COUVERT: $500 PER COUPLE FOR RESERVATIONS OR DEDICATION OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE CALL (516)295-5700 EXT 104 OR GO ONLINE TO PRIORITY-1.ORG/DINNER-2017
49
50
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
21st Annual Max and Ruth Schwartz Sderot Hesder Institutions Gala Dinner PHOTO CREDIT: IRA THOMAS CREATIONS
Three generations of the Eliach Family
O
n Tuesday evening, May 9, the Max and Ruth Schwartz Sderot Hesder Institutions celebrated its 21st “Ach Tov V’Chessed” Anniversary with a gala dinner at Terrace on the Park. Over 400 attendees
Presentations to Guests of Honor
came together to support and pay tribute to the miracle of the Hesder Yeshiva of Sderot and the community of Sderot. The mood at the dinner was one of warmth and filled with good feelings, reuniting family, friends, supporters and
colleagues from many different communities. The evening began with a pre-dinner reception which gave the honorees an opportunity to meet each other, greet the Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Duv Fendel, and to reflect on the important
cause of the Hesder Yeshiva of Sderot. Following the pre-dinner reception, all the attendees entered the grand ballroom for a sumptuous and delectable buffet dinner catered by Main Event-Mauzone. The
menu was quite varied with top of the line delicacies. The open seating format allowed all to sit comfortably with whomever they wished. Displayed on the plasma televisions and screens in the ballroom was the virtual dinner
Providing the perfect balance of professionalism and class, along with the highest level of sincere, leibedig, and PURE Jewish music
www.eitankatz.com
|
718.770.7973
|
info@eitankatz.com
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
51
Around the Community journal which included all the ads submitted in support of the honorees and the Yeshiva. The dinner program opened with the singing of the Hatikvah and the Star Spangled Banner, followed by the prayer for the welfare of the State of Israel. Rabbi Yehuda Kelemer, rabbi of the Young Israel of West Hempstead, recited a perek of Tehillim and greeted the crowd with words of chizuk. Rabbi Fendel expressed his wish to Rabbi Kelemer for his continued refuah shelaima and presented him with a Sderot mezuzah cover made from the fragments of the Iron Dome. Rabbi Fendel also took the opportunity to present the Yeshiva’s benefactor Mr. Henry Schwartz with a Sderot mezuzah cover. These mezuzah covers are created specifically to show Sderot’s brave determination in response to terrorist attacks. The Master of Ceremonies, Nachum Segal, welcomed the crowd and introduced the Sderot dinner video, which gave an inspiring overview of life at the Yeshiva, as well as the integral role it plays in the vibrant resurgence of the city of Sderot. The Hesder Yeshiva of Sderot continues its ongoing plans to develop construct and expand the Yeshiva and the community of Sderot. Following the video, Rabbi Fendel spoke passion-
ately about the progress the Yeshiva has made over the last year and the new and exciting plans for the future including a girl’s Yeshiva program starting in September. He reemphasized the Yeshiva’s commitment to continue to succeed by stating, “Let our neighbors in Gaza see for themselves how we turn their hate and terror into a beacon of light, hope and devotion.” The videos of the Guests of Honor were shown and the Guests of Honor were then presented with their special gifts. Keter Shem Tov Award - Dr. Abraham Peller, West Hempstead, NY; Young Leadership Award - Dr. Jonathan and Jessica Landa, Bergenfield, NJ; Parent of the year - Mr. Yaakov Shama, Brooklyn, NY; Rabbinic Leadership Award - Rabbi David Eliach, New York, NY, and Rabbi Yotav Eliach, Woodmere, NY, both in memory of Professor Yaffa Eliach, a”h. Each of the Guests of Honor received a tabletop replica of the Kassam Rocket Menorah that stands on top of the Beit Midrash of the Hesder Yeshiva in Sderot. The Swish for Sderot Education Achievement Awards were presented to the 16 Yeshiva Day Schools that participated in the First Annual Swish for Sderot Basketball Tournament, raising awareness and funds for the Hesder Yeshiva and community
Pen Pals Meet
S
ocialization is a big part of any preschool experience, and at Shulamith, teachers are always using innovative ways to help their young charges learn how to relate to others. This year, the Pre- 1A girls enjoyed corresponding with students from Bais Yaakov of Queens. Their joy was palpable when all of the pen pals gathered last week and, at long last, met each other face-to-face! They enjoyed a fun meeting in the park, exchanged gifts, and had a picnic lunch together. The talmidot of both schools benefitted immensely and made plans to keep in touch!
of Sderot, while at the same time, participating in a Basketball Tournament: ASHAR, New City, NY; HAFTR, Lawrence, NY; HALB, Woodmere, NY; HANC, Uniondale, NY; HILLEL YESHIVA, Deal, NJ; JEC, Elizabeth, NJ; Magen David Yeshivah, Brooklyn, NY; Manhattan Day School, New York, NY; North Shore Hebrew Academy, Great Neck, NY; RPRY, Edison, NJ; SAR, Riverdale, NY; Westchester Day School, Mamaroneck, NY; YCQ, Queens, NY; Yeshiva Derech HaTorah, Brooklyn, NY; Yeshivah of Flatbush, Brooklyn, NY; and Yeshiva Har Torah, Queens, NY. Commemorative plaques were presented to each representative from each Yeshiva. The guest speaker at the dinner was Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked, who gave an uplifting, passionate, and encouraging address, emphasizing the importance of supporting Sderot and all of its efforts. Minister Shaked pointed out that throughout the bombings and threats from the terror tunnels, the students in the Yeshiva, the largest Hesder Yeshiva in the country, continue to learn and assist the residents of Sderot, and, in addition, were a great source of support to Tzahal. She was cheered enthusiastically and received rounds of applause. She reaffirmed
Israel’s right to exist and Sderot’s right to defend itself. Her speech was received with a rousing standing ovation as a true friend of Sderot. During the evening a special raffle took place for a grand prize of a tabletop Kassam Rocket Menorah. The two lucky winners were Mr. Alan Eisenstein of West Orange, New Jersey, and Ms. Blair Muss of Englewood, New Jersey. The evening concluded with a lavish Viennese dessert table featuring a wide variety of sweets, fruits and special delicious creations of cookies and cakes. Yasher koach to the American Friends of Sderot team: Rav Ari Katz, Director of PR, Chaim Liebtag, Devorah Berger, Israeli resident Aaron Tirschwell and Dinner Chairmen and Directors of AFS, Judah and Carol Rhine, as well as the dinner reception staff. Thank you to Ira Thomas Creations for the photography, Gary Wallin for AV and sound production, Mrs. Rina Schachter for the virtual journal design, and Daniel Finkelstein for the video productions. Most of all, special thanks to all the attendees, supporters and friends of AFS who helped to make this dinner so successful because they recognize what Sderot means to the global Jewish
Guest speaker Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked
community. We are already looking forward to next year’s dinner. When you are planning to be in Israel, please put Sderot on your list of places to visit. Tours of the Yeshiva, meeting with Rabbi Fendel, and seeing city of Sderot can be arranged. The Sderot Menorah Campaign offers schools and shuls the opportunity to purchase and dedicate a Kassam Rocket Menorah like the one that stands on the rooftop of the Beit Midrash of the Hesder Yeshiva of Sderot. For more information about the menorah campaign and the mezuzah cover campaign and tours to Sderot, please contact Judah and Carol Rhine at judah@ sderot.org.
52
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Northwell CEO Meets with Five Towns, Far Rockaway Community Leaders
I
PREPARING FOR MATAN TORAH As One Man With One Heart – But Where Do I Fit In ? SHIFRA RABENSTEIN
Dynamic National Lecturer , Founder of Imrei Shefer Torah Lectures, Judaic Studies teacher at Ma’alot Seminary, Bais Yaakov H.S. and FKH Women’s Institute of Torah Sunday, May 28th, 2017 the 3rd of Sivan, at 10:00 A.M. at The Young Israel of Woodmere 859 Peninsula Blvd THIS MONTH’S LECTURE IS BEING SPONSORED BY:
Faigy and Berish Elefant Li”n Pessel Gittel bas Yeshayahu Yitzchok Hacohen & Reb Yosef ben Shimon Susan Rosenberg Gladys and Willie Neuman Li”n Sara Feiga bas R’ Shlomo Elazar *A meaningful way to mark a Yahrtzeit* To sponsor a lecture email jgulkowitz@yahoo.com or call Debbie at 516-239-0494 B”H completing our 27th year of unifying the women of our community!
t was an impressive turnout as rabbanim and community leaders from the Five Towns and Far Rockaway gathered in Lawrence this month for an introductory meeting with Michael J. Dowling, president and CEO of Northwell Health, which currently operates 18 hospitals in New York City, Long Island and Westchester. The event, arranged at Northwell’s request, was arranged by Chayim Aruchim and Achiezer and was a golden opportunity to build strong bridges between the local Jewish community and senior officials at Northwell. Northwell has expanded rapidly over the years, and its many locations include North Shore University Hospital, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, Lenox Hill Hospital and Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital, with Maimonides Medical Center currently coming on board as part of the Northwell Health family. Following greetings from Achiezer board member and Lawrence Deputy Mayor Michael Fragin on behalf of the elected officials, host Joel Edelstein welcomed everyone to this extremely important meeting. Chayim Aruchim’s chairman of the board, Rabbi Gedaliah Weinberger, welcomed everyone to the event and thanked Dowling for taking the time out of his busy schedule to meet with the rabbinic and community leaders. Rabbi Weinberger explained Chayim Aruchim’s 24 hour hotline which enables family members of seriously ill patients to get guidance and advice regarding end of life issues from a group of rabbis who are trained to understand complex medical issues and are also
versed in Jewish law. Rabbi Shmuel Lefkowitz of Chayim Aruchim spoke passionately about the importance of ensuring that Jewish patients receive culturally sensitive, appropriate treatment, especially in end-of-life situations. Rabbi Boruch Ber Bender of Achiezer addressed the need for ongoing input during a patient’s hospital stay as well as creating an atmosphere that is suitable for religiously observant individuals. Michael Dowling was accompanied by Northwell’s executive vice president of strategy and analytics, Jeff Kraut, and senior vice president and chief quality officer, Dr. Mark Jarrett. Dowling thanked both Chayim Aruchim and Achiezer for their guidance and input to date and giving him an opportunity to meet with influential members of the Jewish community. Northwell has made a name for itself as a leader in the health care industry, said Dowling, and noted that the company has high expectations for Maimonides which will offer patients Northwell’s signature world class service in the near future. Dowling also addressed Northwell’s continuing commitment to excellence and cultural sensitivity and discussed impending changes in the healthcare landscape. After telling participants that he looked forward to continued communication between Northwell and community leaders in order to provide culturally sensitive care and the highest quality service, Dowling and his team mingled with those in attendance, giving everyone an opportunity to have open discussions with the Northwell representatives.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
PLEASE JOIN
SHUVU CHAZON AVROHOM F O R A H I S T O R I C E V E N T, A S
60
SHUVU BOYS CELEBRATE THEIR
Bar Mitzvah
WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF
Rabbonim, Knesset Members and Friends of Shuvu Worldwide
MONDAY, MAY 29TH 2017 • 6:00PM LEONARDO PLAZA HOTEL 47 KING GEORGE STREET, JERUSALEM GUEST SPEAKER
Chief Rabbi of Israel
Harav David Lau, שליט“א Nassi Shuvu
Dayan Yonason Abraham, שליט“א Chairman of the Finance Committee MK
Rabbi Moshe Gafni, שליט“א
TEFILLIN DISTRIBUTION • SEUDAS MITZVAH DIVREI TORAH FROM THE BAR MITZVAH BOYS LIVE MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT AND DANCING
RESERVATIONS NOT REQUIRED • NO SOLICITATION OF FUNDS
53
54
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Mrs. Charlene Aminoff Inspires Digital Citizenship Fair Shevach Mothers and Daughters he fourth grade boys and
S
hevach High School hosted its annual Mother-Daughter Brunch on Sunday, May 21 at the Young Israel of Hillcrest. A standing room only crowd turned out to celebrate the end of another successful school year. With high academic standards and exciting extra-curricular activities, Shevach students are always busy. This was a chance for students to sit back and just enjoy being together and for mothers to spend a morning with their daughters. The guest speaker was Mrs. Charlene Aminoff, who described her journey from being a spiritual Jew in her heart, but not necessarily in her actions, to becoming the woman she is today. She accented her struggle as she transformed herself into a woman who now covers her hair and adheres to the rules of modest dress in all ways. Her journey started in 2010 when her 2-year-old daughter Gali drowned in a swimming pool in Florida. Mrs. Aminoff had been struggling with her commitment to modest dress, and at the moment her daughter was pulled unresponsive from the pool, she crossed the bridge to what she is today. In her fervent plea to Hashem to return Gali to her,
she offered what she calls her sacrifice to Him. Today Gali is fine, having miraculously suffered no brain damage at all, in spite of being under water for more than 3 minutes. Upon the request of her rabbanim, Mrs. Aminoff has taken on a mission to publicize the open miracle she and her family experienced at the time. In addition, she now runs a store in Great Neck called Gali’s Couture Wigs, in order to encourage others in her community to cover their hair. Charlene told the captive audience that her whole life has been a test. She therefore treasures every child she has and every moment of motherhood. Transforming her spiritual feelings into physical commitments was the last piece of the puzzle for her. Mothers and daughters left inspired and committed to growth in serving Hashem and with tools for coping with their own individual challenges in life. Tests are messages from Hashem, but as Mrs. Aminoff said, “Hashem does not want you to stress. He wants you to stretch.” It was a poignant message, now before Shavuos, for parents and daughters alike to take away from a spectacular and uplifting morning.
T
girls at HALB presented their Digital Citizenship Fair on the importance of how to be a good digital citizen under the guidance of their teacher, Mrs. Rubel, the Educational Technology Coordinator for grades N-4. The students in groups of two or three created Google slide presentations on the topic of Digital Citizenship. The excitement in the room was palpable as students’ slides were animated, creative and colorful. The slides each contained the topics they learned in class. • What is a cyberbully and how they can use the word STOP to help their friends when they are being cyberbullied. • They learned that it is always important to be an Upstander and not a Bystander. • How to behave with netiquette online – be kind online. • What is personal information and never to give out personal information • How to create a safe password – privacy and security. • Each person has three rings of responsibility – themselves, family and friends and community. • Never plagiarize, always give credit where credit is due. Each group created their own
dynamic and informative slides. Parents and VIPs were invited to come and view their children’s presentations and to learn about the importance of Digital Citizenship. The third grades were also invited to come and learn from their 4th graders: “How to be a Good Digital Citizen.” During their art class they created colorful posters on this topic that they placed near their computer station at the fair. They all learned so much at the fair, as Mrs. Rubel said, “Teaching Digital Citizenship to your students can help create a positive school and home culture that supports safe and responsible technology use.”
Divrei Chizuk from Chai Lifeline Offers Strength to Those Struggling with Illness and Loss
W
eekly, five minute shiurim on issues surrounding illness and loss, delivered via phone from leading rabbonim and roshei yeshiva, is the newest way that Chai Lifeline is enabling families to cope with adversity. Divrei Chizuk from Chai Lifeline, the organization’s newest program, provides short weekly shiurim via phone or web. It is a free community service, explained Rabbi Simcha Scholar, executive vice president. “At our last LH Financial Services Winter Retreat, we were privileged to have Rav Elya Brudny give over some of his knowledge and all his compassion to our families. They were so moved and affected by his presence. Afterwards, we realized that we had
the ability as an organization to affect the lives of anyone who is dealing with illness, loss, tragedy, or trauma.” The shiurim began the week of parshas Tazria-Metzorah; new shiurim are uploaded every Thursday. The first ten shiurim are given by Rav Brudny; Rabbi Simcha Scholar; Rabbi Lipa Geldworth, Khal Kol Torah, Brooklyn; Rabbi Moshe Tuvia Leiff, Agudath Bais Binyomin, Brooklyn; Rabbi Ephraim Shapiro, Congregation Shaarey Tefilah, North Miami Beach; Rabbi Baruch Yehuda Graydon, Rosh Kollel, Torah Center of Los Angeles; Rabbi Yitzchok Sorozkin, Rosh Yeshiva, Telze and Mesivta of Lakewood; Rabbi Eytan Feiner, Congregation Knesseth Israel, Far Rockaway, NY; Rabbi Reuven Fink, Young
Israel of New Rochelle; and Rabbi Zev Cohen, Congregation Adas Yeshurun, Chicago. Response from the rabbonim has been universally positive. “Everyone we’ve spoken to about the project has praised it and agreed to participate,” Rabbi Scholar noted. Listeners can access the shiurim in several ways. They are sent to the cellphones of people who have registered in advance. (Email your name and cell phone number to divreichizuk@chailifeline.org.) Listeners can also call the Divrei Chizuk line, 646-277-5075 or listen online at www.chailifeline.org/ chizuk-line. Past shiurim can be accessed on the page as well.
Beginning this week, Chai Lifeline is offering an email reminder with a link to the current shiur. Email divreichizuk@chailifeline.org with the text “join” in the subject line to be added to this group. Feedback has been excellent so far. “Thank you so much for sending me the invite. You have no idea how timely and much needed this is for me,” was typical among the comments. Thousands of people from around the world are calling in, registering their cell phone numbers or email addresses and accessing the web page every week. Like all Chai Lifeline programs, Divrei Chizuk from Chai Lifeline is available at no charge.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Crystal Vases Over 10 Designs to Choose Reg. $60.00
onSale
$19. 99
C
T
THE LOSEOU CONNECTION CC UPSCALE CLOSEOUTS
Styles May Vary by Location
Back in Stock!
UPSCALE
Dip Bowl Holder One Pound
732.364.8822 516.218.2211 718.854.2595
All New Design! Floral Printed Napkins
$14. 99 Half Pound
Over 40 Designs 20 Count
$9. 99
1344518 Washington 13th AveAve. CEDARHUST, BROOKLYN, NYNY 11516 1091River Ave (Rt 9) Next door to CVS, in the TODD PLAZA Gourmet Glatt parking lot
Starting at
$2. 99 $9. 99$12. 99
STORE STORE HOURS: HOURS: M.-W. M.-Th.10:00-8:00 10:00-9:00 M.-Th. 10:00-9:00 Th. 10:00-9:00 10:00-3:00 10:00-4:00 FF.. 10:00-3:00 F . 10:00-3:00 S. 10:00-7:00 S. 10:00-7:00 10:00-7:00 M.S.Sh. 8 PM -11 PM
Godinger Washing Cups
Visit us at our other locations 4518 13th Ave. Brooklyn, Visit us atNY 718.854.2595 our other locations
Metal Tray with Dip Bowls
1344518 Washington 13th Ave. Ave. 50 Court St. Cedarhurst, Brooklyn, NYNY 11516 Brooklyn, NY 516.218.2211 718.854.2595 718.625.6677
Clogs All Sizes and Colors
Reg. $40.00
$19. 99
Reg. $9.00
$3. 99
50 Court St. 134Brooklyn, Washington NY Ave. Cedarhurst, NY 11516 718.625.6677 516.218.2211 1091 River Ave. Lakewood, NJ 732.364.8822
3.5% SALES TAX
Quantities may vary according to store location • No rainchecks • Not responsible for typographical errors
55
56
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Proceeds to Benefit:
PRESENTS
A Rina C. Hirsch Production
STARRING THE
Local History Unfolds for Shulamith Students
DRAMA QUEENS
SUNDAY, JUNE 11TH 2017 11:00AM and 3:30PM
LAWRENCE MIDDLE SCHOOL 195 Broadway, Lawrence, NY
DIRECTED BY:
RINA C. HIRSCH
& ARIANA WOLFSON with Hadassah Fertig, Shayna Leah Frankel, Miri Granik, Eliana Hirsch, Rosie Lauer, & Ashley Paneth
For ticket information, please call: 914-260-0772. For general information, call 516-385-1959. Order online: at www.jewishtickets.com or D4Ltickets@gmail.com General Seats: $20 in advance/$25 at the door Premium Seats: $25 in advance/$30 at the door | VIP Seats: $36 in advance/$45 at the door
O
n May 17, fourth grade students from Shulamith School for Girls made the short trip to Rock Hall Museum, located a hop, skip, and a jump away in Lawrence! Accompanied by their teachers, Helene Gerber, Zehavit Mandelbaum, and Stephanie Shilo, the girls learned about the 250-year-old house and its surrounding property. Originally surrounded by 600 acres of land, the colonial landmark is now situated on three acres that are home to chickens, roosters, and two llamas. Having recently studied the events surrounding the founding of our nation, the girls were excited to hear that the builder of the house, Josiah Martin, was a loyalist during the Revolutionary War and that his house was therefore occupied by patriots during the war for independence. In addition to reinforcing their knowledge of the early
Americans, the girls learned about wampum, the currency used by the Dutch colonists and Native Americans during the 1600s, and were happy to create wampum bracelets out of clay. The outing provided an informative and enjoyable peek into early American history!
Lag B’Omer at MAY
L
ast week, Mesivta Ateres Yaakov celebrated Lag B’Omer in true MAY fashion. On Sunday, the Mashgiach Ruchani, Rav Yehuda Horowitz, led a spirited Lag B’Omer seuda with divrei Torah, live music, grammen and the traditional Lag B’Omer zemiros. On Wednesday, the Mesivta’s Student Government organized an outing to Grant Park for the entire Yeshiva. After an hour of shiur, talmidim
boarded the buses for a fun-filled morning of outdoor recreation, including baseball, basketball and tennis. Following the morning of energetic sports, the talmidim enjoyed a pizza lunch. The Mesivta thanks the dedicated members of its G.O., particularly the outgoing president and vice president, Ushi Schreiber and Yoni Sokel.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
57
Around the Community
Yachad’s Northeast Family Shabbaton Touches Over 1,000
O
ver 1,000 people attended Yachad’s Northeast Family Shabbaton on May 5-7 at Crowne Plaza in Stamford, CT, from 120 families and 140 volunteer staff helped to make the event a success. “Yachad takes great pride in being able to host a weekend devoted to families of individuals with disabilities, providing daycare, childcare and programming for all children in attendance, allowing the parents and caregivers to focus on the workshops and experts presenting,” said Ahron Rosenthal, director of Yachad New York. The event had something for everyone in the family. Sessions and networking opportunities for parents, support groups for parents and siblings, programing for individuals with special needs, and full day camp programming for the siblings. Workshops covered a variety of topics, including developmental milestones, social skills vocational readiness, family dynamics, and diagnoses including autism, Down syndrome, and ADHD. These sessions, led by caring professionals who are leaders in their fields, provided families with vital and timely information.
Families were entertained with a magic show (Magic Mehl) on Saturday night and an inflatable carnival on Sunday. “Some of the most special experiences I have had are with the parent support groups we run all weekend long,” said Chani Herrmann, New Jersey Yachad director. “The incredible bonds that are formed in a short period of time can lead to long time friendships and mutual support.” “We just left the Shabbaton, and my family is on cloud nine,” said one parent. “Tova had an amazing time. Her advisor was terrific, kind, personable and responsible. My daughters and son had a great time at day camp and the carnival. Elissa and I enjoyed not only the sessions, but simply meeting and talking with families we could relate to and who could relate to us. The entire event was well thought out and organized...no small feat. We are so very appreciative of you making this something attainable for us.” The Shabbaton featured 25 presenters, and the keynote speaker was Dr. David Pelcovitz. Dr. David Pelcovitz holds the Gwendolyn and Joseph Straus Chair in Psychology and Education at Yeshiva University’s Azrieli
Graduate School, where he also teaches pastoral psychology courses. Dr. Pelcovitz has published and lectured extensively on the psychological impact of trauma and loss, child and adolescent behavior problems, parenting, and the impact of divorce and stress on children. His most recent book, which he co-authored with his father, is Life in the Balance: Torah Perspectives on Positive Psychology. In his keynote address, he outlined strategies for actively meeting the psychological and social needs of the entire family, promoting healthy communication, and
making space and time to balance the needs of the individual with the needs of the entire family. New for this Shabbaton, Yachad responded to interest from younger families by opening a pre-juniors track for children between the ages of 2 and 7, in addition to the tracks for juniors (ages 8-16), seniors (17-25) and rayim (age 26 and older). Modeled on the programming for juniors, seniors, and rayim, the pre-juniors track included a full weekend of programming. Twenty-four young children participated in the new pre-junior program this year, and each child was matched with a one-on-one advisor. The eighth grade leadership program welcomed 30 students who were nominated by their schools. They participated in in sensitivity trainings, team building activities, had a Q&A with someone who has a sibling with special needs, and enjoyed many social programs with the junior Yachad division. “These students have displayed the passion and commitment to community devotion and attended the Shabbaton, learning together about leadership and how to effect change in their own schools and communities,” Rosenthal said. “Yachad looks forward to seeing these young students continue to be involved in the disabilities community and grow into the next generation of leaders.”
Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky Visits Yeshiva Darchei Torah PHOTO CREDIT: MHB
L-R: Rav Moshe Bender, Rav Shimon Finkelman, Rav Yaakov Bender, Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Rav Yosef Warman, Rav Dovid Bender and talmidim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah
O
n Sunday morning, Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, shlita, the venerable Rosh Yeshiva of Philadelphia, davened Shacharis at Mesivta Chaim Shlomo of Yeshiva Darchei
Torah. After davening, he addressed the talmidim of the Mesivta and Beis Medrash as well as the middle school, delivering a shtikel Torah on the halacha and lomdus of birchas haTorah.
He then headed outdoors, escorted by rabbeim and bachurim who joyously sang “Yamim al yemei melech tosif.” He briefly addressed the elementary school talmidim, telling them that “Torah is the
Rav Shlomo Avigdor Altusky, Rav Yaakov Bender and Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky at Yeshiva Darchei Torah on Sunday morning
greatest [source of] bracha. A Yid is blessed when he is connected to Torah, when his life is Torah, when he learns Torah and is immersed in Torah.” He blessed the boys with “abundant hatzlacha in Torah and
Yiras Shamayim.” The talmidim and rabbeim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah were deeply inspired by this august visit of a true melech and walked away inspired to strive for greater heights in Torah.
58
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls – Class of 2017
M
azel tov to the SKA Class of 2017 honorees! SKA Valedictorian Nicole Israeli, Hebrew Language Editor of the senior yearbook, is consistently driven to expand her knowledge base, pushing herself to uncover the educational process, not simply the product. She has received numerous awards for her skills in Judaic textual analysis, including the Tanach Award for excellence in study. She has also been awarded the peer-voted Keter Torah Award for outstanding character. Nicole is a member of the Torah Bowl Championship Team; her Torah Bowl coach refers to her as “the heroine of the team,” praising not only her work ethic but her generosity with her teammates and superb sportsmanship. She is also a member of the SKA Math Team, a volunteer at the Levi Yitzchak Library, and a youth leader in her synagogue. Nicole is interested in studying math and science in college and is currently interning with a local veterinarian. She plans to attend Michlalah in Israel
Nicole Israeli
Shani Axelrod
next year, and then attend the Scholars program at Queens College. Salutatorian Shani (Emily) Axelrod, Art Editor of the SKA Literary Journal and a member of the SKA Art Academy, is a two-time winner of peer-voted awards for outstanding character: the Middot Award in 9th grade and the Keter Torah Award in 10th. She has also been awarded the SKA Tanach Award for her breadth of knowledge in Judaic Studies. Shani was a finalist in the Celebrating Art Competition and one of her drawings was published in an art publication which included artists from around the world. She is a member of SKA programs that promote meaningful prayer and Judaic
Sarah Meira Weissman
learning, and she volunteers with The Friendship Circle and the Jewish Education Project (JEP). She is currently doing work study with a fashion illustrator in NYC. She plans to study in Israel next year at Michlalah and then attend the Honors program at Stern College for Women. Salutatorian Sarah Meira Weissman, captain of the SKA Debate Team, editor of the school Holocaust journal and a founder of the SKA Political Science Club, is a passionate advocate for individuals who have disabilities. She has worked with the national Yachad organization for children with disabilities, was the recipient of a Yachad Fellowship in her junior year, and currently sits on the Yachad
Chaya Levin
Youth Leadership Board. Sarah Meira is a contributing writer for The Looking Glass school newspaper, a member of the Science Olympiad Team, a participant in the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (CIJE) engineering fair, and a trained medical clown. She is currently interning at a Long Island-based law firm for her senior work study program. A winner of the peer-voted Keter Torah Award for outstanding character, she will be studying at Shaalavim in Israel next year and will then attend the Macaulay Honors program at Queens College. Keter Shem Tov Awardee Chaya Levin, Vice President of the SKA student government, an associate editor of
the school newspaper, captain of the Debate Team, captain of the soccer team, captain of the Poetry Slam Team, is an SKA school leader. She is also an SKA Ambassador, a dance head in the annual production, a business editor of the senior yearbook, editor of the Holocaust journal, and a head of Pink Day for Breast Cancer Awareness. In 9th, 10th and 11th grades, Chaya was chosen by her peers to receive the Middot Award for Outstanding Character, and this year, was chosen by her classmates to be the Keter Shem Tov Speaker at graduation. She is devoted to helping others and last year collected more than two hundred books for the St. Janes de Chantal orphanage in Johannesburg, South Africa. The summer after 10th grade she traveled to Israel on an inclusive touring program with mainstream teens and individuals who have special needs. Chaya is currently interning at the Kings County Supreme Court in Brooklyn. She plans to study at MMY in Israel next year and then attend the University of Pennsylvania.
B’gan: Taking Your Taste Buds to New Heights
B
’gan is never satisfied with the status quo and is always traveling the world – literally – in their quest to bring us new and innovative products to the kosher consumer. The most recent stop on the B’gan world tour brought them to Latin America, where many delicacies have been enjoyed for centuries, yet were never properly transplanted to the kosher market. Until now. New to the freezer section of your local kosher supermarket you will find two delectable products that have taken kosher kitchens by storm and forever changed the ordinary array of side dish options, opening up new vistas of deliciousness for balabustes to revel in. The first item, new B’gan YuccaCassava Steak Cut, also dubbed the
“healthy French Fry,” is a root vegetable native to Latin America that is rich in calcium and vitamin C, with a fresh taste that will delight your taste buds – as an appetizer, side dish or a snack. These delicious “fries” are all natural, gluten-free and can be eaten as is, dipped into your favorite sauce or mixed together with other vegetables. B’gan pre-cooks them and freezes them fresh, so you can be assured that they will be handy and ready to serve in a matter of minutes. B’gan knows how kosher consumers likes their dishes and this new item is one that will be tasted and liked over and over again. The second product, Tostones, Fried Green Plantains, tastes as unique and exotic as they sound. This Latin American staple, the plantain,
is prepared and pre-cooked to perfection. All you have to do is fry them and serve – as a side dish or as an appetizer, and their perfectly balanced texture will be enjoyed by all. Their cracker-like feel makes them excellent for dipping, along your other favorite chips and fries. One taste of these delicacies and you’ll finally get why everyone’s raving about them! As with all B’gan products, you are assured that they will have the
signature B’gan kashrus and quality, which have no equal anywhere. So, are you ready for a trip to Latin America? No need to pack your bags and find your passport – all you have to do is visit your supermarket’s freezer section and you will be there. Where will the B’gan journey take you next? Stay tuned, as they are always searching the world for new destinations to introduce you to. B’gan’s Latin America Line: You Will Like It.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
LOOKING FOR A REWARDING CAREER?
PROGRAMS IN: DIAGNOSTIC MEDICAL
SONOGRAPHY (ULTRASOUND) PARAMEDIC RADIOGRAPHY
(X-RAY TECHNOLOGIST) RADIATION THERAPY SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY
CONVENIENT LOCATION IN THE HEART OF FLATBUSH SHOMER SHABBOS SCHEDULE
Institutionally accredited by
· HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE · · FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY ·
www.CAHE.edu (718) 645-3500
For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website.
59
60
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
An Inspiring Week at Yeshiva Ketana of Queens
Y
eshiva Ketana Zichron Chaim U’Binah of Queens’ eighth graders, who are studying World War II in their history class, hosted a visitor on May 11, Mrs. Miriam Dobin. Mrs. Dobin’s first words to her audience of fifty young men were the following: “I saw a number on my uncle’s left arm and wanted to know what it meant. My aunt didn’t smile a lot. My mother cried often and my father was always nervous.” With those few sentences, the students were spellbound. Mrs. Dobin went on to share the amazing story of how her parents and aunt and uncle survived. Mrs. Dobin had published a memoir, I Am Because of You, several years ago recounting the incidents and miracles of her family’s survival and now shares those remarkable stories with varied groups. Mrs. Dobin’s existence is itself a near miracle. In 1964, nearly 20 years after the end of the war, Mrs. Dobin was
born, the only child of her parents and the only “foster” child of her aunt and uncle. Her mother was nearly 48-years-old when she gave birth to the “miracle” child who became Mrs. Dobin. Unfortunately, Mrs. Dobin’s mother suffered a stroke when Mrs. Dobin, little Miriam at the time, was only tenyears-old. At that time, since her father was busy working every day, Miriam’s aunt and uncle, who had never had a child of their own, brought little Miriam into their house, became a second set of parents, and helped raise her to adulthood. Despite being the child of four survivors and despite hearing the many horrific stories at a young age, Miriam felt she had enjoyed a wonderful childhood cossetted by four “parents.” One of the main highlights of Mrs. Dobin’s presentation was when she showed her audience a video recording her trip in 2012 to Oborin (Abara in Hungarian).
In Oborin, Mrs. Dobin met a neighbor of her mother who had been 10-years-old when the family was taken by the Nazis. The neighbor, who was close to 80 at the time of Mrs. Dobin’s visit, was part of a gentile family that had protected Mrs. Dobin’s family’s valuables until Mrs. Dobin’s mother and her aunt returned to reclaim them. After 70 years, the neighbor was still able to rattle off all the names of her Jewish neighbors and, more poignantly, able to remember all the details of the family’s being rounded up by the Nazis. The neighbor later found three pictures of Mrs. Dobin’s mother that she was able to give Mrs. Dobin to take home. For Mrs. Dobin, it was a most emotional visit. The students sat in rapt silence for more than an hour, quite moved by the story. Our first annual STEM FAIR/Technology Expo took place on May 15, a day after Lag B’Omer. The highlight of the day was the performance
of the band, a trio of eighth graders, Efraim Israelian on keyboard, Yaniv Zargari on drums and Ahron Yosef Cohen on electric guitar. The threesome spent a great deal of time rehearsing as well as researching the technology behind each instrument. While they surely found the explanation of the technology of the musical instruments satisfactory, we suspect that the audience of young students enjoyed the music that sprang forth from the instruments at least as much as the explanations. Other exciting exhibits included the history of the development of the black boxes that most aircraft carry, of the technology of roller coasters, of the technology of the hot air balloon that Aron Munk was able to raise to the high ceiling of the shul, and of the drone that Aharon Levy was able to take apart and put together by himself. Also, especially interesting were the exhibits of how the
modern home can run almost entirely on remote control instruments and the analysis of the capabilities of America’s fighter jets. One particularly unusual exhibit was Illusions. Not only did Avraham Dovid Rosenberg author a fascinating report, but his partner, Yakoby Matmon, illustrated the power of illusion when he performed extraordinarily agile magic tricks. We truly learned firsthand about the power of illusion. We asked Yakoby to perform for our younger grades as a special treat, and he obliged to resounding applause. YKQ is grateful to Rabbi Moeller and his many creative students.
MAY Wins YI Basketball Championship Again
T
his past Monday evening, the Ateres Yaakov Eagles Junior Varsity team once again took home the intermediate division (9th and 10th grades) championship of the National Council of Young Israel Basketball League. The championship was the climax of an intense competition with other yeshivos such as Darchei Torah, Yam HaTorah and out-of-town yeshivos from Brooklyn and even Teaneck. The Eagles emerged with a 9-1 record, placing them in the second seed. MAY Assistant Menahel/Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Rabbi Bennett remarked, “I want to personally thank Menashe Krupka for doing an outstanding job coaching and mentoring our boys. We are so proud of our talmidim, both for the incredible commitment and dedication they demonstrated to their team, but more so for the menchlich and classy manner in which they
conducted themselves throughout the entire season. Playing competitive basketball against other local yeshivos and youth groups is just one example of the fun and kosher activities we provide for our talmidim.” Under the leadership of Coach Menashe Krupka, the team proved
to be a “force to be reckoned with” throughout the entire season. After a first-round bye in the playoffs and a semifinal win against Yeshivas Heichal HaTorah of Teaneck, NJ, the Eagles were slated to take on the Young Israel of Woodmere in the championship game.
The game quickly developed into an intense match with the score kept close the entire first half. At the close of the first half, YIW had a 1 point lead over MAY, 21-20. But, as the second half progressed and the MAY fans got more involved, the Eagles skill and energy kept them on top. Led by captain and sophomore point guard, Gavriel Singer, the gap began to widen. Relentless pressure from sophomore shooting guards Yoel Rahmani and Moishe Gross gave the Eagles a 10 point lead at the end of the third quarter. But YIW wasn’t going down without a fight. Cutting the score to a difference of 3, crucial defensive help was provided by MAY’s “big three” Yitzy Friedlander, Isaac Melohn and Yehuda Pifko, who kept YIW out of the paint and kept rebounds in MAY’s possession. In the end, the Eagles soared to victory with a 44-37 final score.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
HANC Middle School’s 8th Grade Goes to Washington
Is Coming To Far Rockaway AND The Five Towns!
T
he eighth graders went on their Washington trip on May 17-18. The trip was fantastic. After davening and breakfast we boarded the bus. At the beginning it was pretty quiet because kids were still tired but the noise level certainly picked up as the day wore on. We stopped in Delaware for a quick lunch and then continued on to Washington, D.C. Our first stop was the Capitol. We saw the movie: “Out of Many, One.” It went through the different parts of government. Next, we went to the Rotunda where our fantastic tour guide, Mrs. Sheila Schwebel, gave us brief overview. Following that we went to Arlington National Cemetery and the Changing of the Guard. It is amazing to watch the guards’ discipline. For dinner, we ate next to the Lincoln Memorial. Our last activity of the night was a trip to Flight Trampoline Park. We bounced and bounced and bounced. It was awesome. The next morning we woke up, davened, ate breakfast and left the hotel. Day two’s activities included: an emotional visit to the Holocaust Museum, the Lincoln Memorial, the WW II Memorial and lunch at the Mall (the big lawn, not a shopping mall). Our last stop was the Air and Space Museum. The achdut on the trip was incredible. We will always remember this graduation trip!
Bake Sale to Benefit Sh’eefa This Sunday
W
ith Shavuos around the corner, Sheefa’s Annual Shavuos Bake Sale is scheduled to take place this Sunday, May 28, iy”H, from 12noon-7pm at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis and Lauri Barbanel, 620 Chauncey Lane in Lawrence. In past years, the Sh’eefa Bake Sale has been known to feature mouthwatering desserts such as meringues, pies, cakes, cheesecakes, miniatures, as well as challahs, babkas and kugels, everything freshly homemade. In addition to picking up something delicious for your yom tov table, all proceeds go towards supporting
61
Otsar Family Services is excited to announce the opening of a new Sunday Recreational Program for children with developmental disabilities in Far Rockaway and the Five Towns.
Otsar has been providing quality services to individuals with disabilities and their families for over 36 years at our Brooklyn location. After receiving several requests from parents, we are now opening a site in Far Rockaway.
Innovative and stimulating activities • Fun filled programming • Individualized attention with small staff ratio • The program will be based in the Bnos Bais Yaakov building at 613 Beach 9th Street
SCHEDULED TO BEGIN SHORTLY AFTER SUKKOS 2017. This is a Medicaid Waiver/Respite Program open to children in Far Rockaway and The Five Towns that are eligible to receive services from OPWDD.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT CHAVA PICK AT 718-946-7301 EXT 206 OR CHAVA@OTSAR.ORG ∙ THE ADVOCACY PROJECT ∙ RESPITE PROGRAM ∙ MEDICAID SERVICE COORDINATION ∙ PARENT SUPPORT GROUP ∙ CHEVRA ∙ SUNDAY/HOLIDAY PROGRAM ∙ MINI DAY CAMP ∙ COMMUNITY HABILITATION PROGRAM ∙ DAY HABILITATION PROGRAM
2334 WEST 13TH ST BROOKLYN, NY 11223 • 718.946.7301 • WWW.OTSAR.ORG the year round programs and shiurim that Sh’eefa is known to offer the women in the community. In addition to baked goods, raffle tickets will be on sale to win some terrific prizes. In preparation for Shavuos, the women at Sh’eefa have been privileged to hear from numerous inspiring speakers, including Rabbi Mordechai Burg, Rabbi Aryeh Cohen, Rabbi Yussie Zakutinsky, Mrs. Jackie Bitton, Mrs. Shaindy Glickman and Mrs. Lara Klein to name a few. This past Sunday, Aish Kodesh filled with women coming from across the Five Towns, Far Rockaway, Great Neck,
Queens and West Hempstead to hear from renowned Mechaneches Mrs. Rochel Chafetz. The topic was “Unlocking Greatness, a Closer Look at Megillas Rus.” In her own unique fashion, Mrs. Chafetz wove together the events of Megillas Rus with the use of meforshim as well as personal and practical anecdotes to drive home the point of how lucky we are to be Jews and how proud we should all feel on a daily basis. This coming Sunday, May 28 at 10:15am the Sh’eefa women look forward to hearing from Mrs. Amit Yaghoubi who will be giving a special erev
Shavuos-Memorial Day weekend shiur entitled: “Reliving the Memory of Har Sinai.” All women in the community are invited to attend. For the first time, Sh’eefa has planned a Shavuos Learning Program scheduled to take place on Leil Shavuos, Tuesday evening, May 30. Featuring an incredible line up of inspirational teachers, it is sure to be an uplifting evening of learning. For sponsorship information, as well as the schedule of events, please visit www.sheefa.org.
62
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
MAY Eagles Win Torah Bowl Championship
M
esivta Ateres Yaakov congratulates its Torah Bowl team on winning yet another Torah Bowl championship. The MAY team handily took the 2017 tristate Torah Bowl competition, which includes a series of matches over the course of five months. Those matches culminated this past week in a championship match between four schools:
MAY, HANC, MTA and TABC. The Eagles came out on top early in the 100 question championship match and never lost their momentum. Although TABC kept it close, MAY Captain Shmuel Maltz led his team to victory. MAY thanks Student Activities Coordinator and Torah Bowl team advisor, Rabbi Tsvi Greenfield, for his tireless dedication to the team. Mazel tov!
Why More Jewish Parents are Banking Cord Blood
C
The Spa
@ Seneca Lake All Women’s Wellness Retreat
Experience the calm and beauty of nature while strengthening your body and invigorating your mind
Exercise & Fitness
Daily Scenic Walks/Hikes/Track Aqua Zumba Spinning Aerobics Strength/Weight Training Yoga Pilates
Nutrition
Healthy Eating Sessions Cooking & Baking Demos & Tasting Health Shack
Join us at Beautiful
Activities
Tennis Basketball Indoor & Outdoor Pools Hot Tub/Jacuzzi Lakefront Watersports Biking
coloryourdesignportfolio.com
Camp Seneca Lake, Honesdale, PA The Premier Orthodox Jewish Camp Monday June 12 - Wednesday June 14 3 days/2 nights $500 Monday, June 12th - Thursday, June 15 4 days/3 nights $750
*Glatt Kosher Mashgiach Temidi Day Care Available
Refresh, Revitalize, Rejuvenate TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF - YOU'RE WORTH IT! For more information please contact Carol Rhine @ thesenecaspa@gmail.com | 516-581-5637
Transportation available R/T $60 Groups Welcome
ord blood stem cells have the extraordinary potential to save lives and safeguard children’s health. In the past, young Jewish firsttime parents saw the extra expense of cord blood banking, with annual fees and high set-up costs, as a downside to the investment. Now, through Westchester-based Maze Cord Blood, one of the lowest-priced options among all FDA-approved and AABB-accredited cord blood banks with no annual storage fee, Jewish parents can get the best science at the best value. “When we did the research, Maze Cord Blood always came out on top as a company that not only delivered quality service but also truly cared about us and our baby,” said Rachel and Jacob from Teaneck, NJ. With industry advances and ongoing clinical trials, the reasons to consider banking cord blood and tissue, especially as it pertains to the Ashkenazi Jewish community, have been growing: Cord blood currently treats over 80 diseases, including common Ashkenazi Jewish diseases such as Niemann Pick Disease, Fanconi anemia, and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy
(MLD). Clinical trials are underway for Tay Sachs disease and autism. An estimated 10,000-15,000 people per year need a stem cell transplant but can’t find a suitable donor – your baby’s stem cells are a perfect match! Cord blood stem cells may also be used for siblings or parents – with up to a 75% match rate. Valuable cord blood stem cells can be banked and maintained in a viable state for more than 25 years. “All three of my babies have their cord blood and tissue banked at Maze. After comparing companies, Maze was the best value for us,” said Sarah and Gabe from Riverdale. Maze Cord Blood is currently offering a $400 discount on their cord blood banking services. Learn more at www.MazeHealthyFutures.com or call for 914-488-0057 for a cord blood information packet. Maze Cord Blood is one of the lowest-priced options among all FDA-approved and AABB-accredited cord blood banks with no annual fees and a $50K Quality Product Guarantee. Visit www.MazeHealthyFutures. com or call 914-488-0057 to learn more about their services.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
63
Around the Community
YOSS Lag B’Omer at Local Parks
O
n May 16, all divisions of Yeshiva of South Shore spent a wonderful and enjoyable day at several local parks. This annual expedition takes place around Lag B’Omer time as the trip coincides with the rebbeim sharing with the boys various midrashim that attest to the greatness of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. One famous midrash teaches us that during Rabbi Shimon’s lifetime there was no rainbow seen in the sky, because his merits protected the entire world. After his death, a custom arose in which children would go out to the fields with a bow and arrow (to symbolize the connection between the shape of the rainbow (a bow) and the protection that Rabbi Shimon was able to provide for us due to his greatness in avodas Hashem (See Ramban Bereishis 9:12). The boys spend the day with their rebbeim and secular studies teachers at North Woodmere Park, Mitch-
ell Park, and Eisenhower Park. The weather was perfect, and the fields were all looking pristine as the boys ran with their classmates to enjoy a well-deserved day of ball playing, roller blading, and kite flying, all under the auspices of their role models and mentors. Many of the talmidim found they were able to see their rebbeim in a different light as their
Rebbe pitched to them, hit solid shots to outfield, and bonded over sports. Throughout all three parks there were sounds of achdus, camaraderie, good feelings, and friendly match-ups between different classes. The boys exhibited to one another the middos and derech eretz that is taught every day in the Yeshiva and at home. What a wonderful kiddush Hashem!
Gurwin Jewish-Fay J. Lindner Residences Inducts Eleven Residents into the Gurwin Centenarian Society’s Inaugural Class
I
n what is believed to be the largest gathering of centenarians at a senior assisted living facility on Long Island ever, eleven women residing at Gurwin Jewish-Fay J. Lindner Residences were inducted into the inaugural class of the “Gurwin Centenarians Society.” Ranging in age from 100 to 106 years young, the inductees received citations from both Senator John Flanagan’s and Assemblyman Andrew Raia’s offices acknowledging the extraordinary event. “We all hear about the graying of society, and over 85 is the fastest growing segment of the population,” said Herbert H. Friedman, Executive Vice President/CEO of Gurwin. “But to have so many who have reached the centenarian milestone in one building is remarkable. The members of The Gurwin Centenarian Society are a vibrant part of our assisted living
community. We are honored to celebrate the lives of these extraordinary women. They are an inspiration to us all.” Many of the centenarians’ family members were on hand for the occasion, which was held during National Older Americans Month, presenting the opportunity for them to share reflections on the past century. Each has seen 19 presidents, dating back to William Howard Taft. They were born around the same time as the creation of mass-produced automobiles, and have witnessed the in-
vention of the jet engine, the electric razor and the ballpoint pen. They lived through the Great Depression, World Wars I & II and other conflicts, saw the invention of antibiotics and watched men land on the moon. Each of the eleven centenarians has a unique life story: One grew up in Manhattan and remembers horsedrawn fire wagons. Another said goodbye to her father at age four, when he left his family in postWorld War I Poland to start a
life in America. She reunited with him in Boston when she was 13, just before the start of the Great Depression. Two attended PS 109 in Brooklyn at the same time. They connected and discovered their shared history when they became residents years later at Gurwin’s assisted living community. Together, the new Gurwin Centenarian Society inductees are: Grace Lerner, 104 Golda Thaw, 100 Helen Stemple, 104 Helen Smith, 101
Beatrice Halperin, 100 Doris Goldenberg, 99 Ethel Silverman, 100 Jeannette Stelzer, 100 Frieda Norotsky, 102 Fannie Wicentowski, 103 Minnie Hutter, 100+ Many of the centenarians took their remarkable milestone in stride, with such comments as: “It just crept up on me! I never told anyone my age until I turned 100; now it doesn’t matter if people know. I think it just might be in my genes – my great-grandmother in Poland lived to 96, and this was before modern medicine,” said Golda Thaw, 100. “It feels ordinary. I don’t think of age, I just think of living. Age really is just a number,” said Helen Stemple, 104. “I just try to do the best with what I’ve got! Traveling helps you live longer. Makes you feel good,” said Minnie Hutter, 100+.
64
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Shulamith Has a Field Day in Cedarhurst Park
T
he Lower and Middle Divisions of Shulamith School for Girls celebrated Lag B’Omer last week with enjoyable outings to Cedarhurst Park. The girls played machanayim and dodgeball, and had a fine time competing in relay races coordinated by their gym teacher, Mrs. Aviva Greenberg. The Middle School girls also had fun with a signature hunt, which required them to find people in
the park to sign off on a list of twenty-five different descriptions including “having only brothers” or “never having gone to camp.” The game provided an opportunity to find out some things about their teachers and friends that they never knew before! To top off their day in the park, each student was treated to a refreshing treat from the ice cream truck, courtesy of the Shulamith Women’s Organization.
Trip Day at DRS
A
t DRS, the student activities department is always looking for ways to help foster friendships and build camaraderie amongst students. Shabbatonim, tisches, melave malkas, and meals at rabbeim’s houses all contribute to this goal. Another annual highlight at DRS is the Annual Trip Day, in which students have a chance to spend time with each other outside of the school. This week, freshmen, sophomores and juniors all participated in the annual Trip Day. The freshmen enjoyed a day at Ring Homestead, where they competed in games of paintball and also took part in team-building obstacle
course exercises, after which they went to New Roc City and Skyzone, a massive trampoline park. The sophomores spent the day “white-water rafting” the rapids of the Lehigh River. The juniors traveled to the Long Island Adventures Ropes Course where they overcame various obstacles in a grueling, exciting, and physical ropes course, hundreds of feet in the air. The trip day was a great experience that strengthened student and rebbe relationships, and helped bolster the theme on which DRS stands for: building a strong sense of achdut throughout the school.
YOSS Annual Science Fair
O
n Thursday May 11, the Mechina Division at Yeshiva of South Shore hosted their annual Science Fair for grades 6th8th. The boys had been preparing for this exciting event for the past several weeks. As parents walked around the gymnasium and annex to observe the different projects and experiments, they were amazed by the level of complexity, creativity, and knowledge that was on display. The goal of the Yeshiva’s science fair is to help the boys develop their creative mode of thinking and to explore the mysteries of the world around them. They were challenged to apply the scientific method and to provide real experiences and methods by which their scientific knowledge was gathered. The science fair allowed for them to develop their communication skills both verbally and in writing. The winners of this year’s science fair are: 6th Grade - 1st place: Ariel Kunin & Dovi Hirsch. 2nd place: Dovid
Rothman. 3rd place: Levi Krishevski. Honorable Mention: Dovid Miller & Shlomo Yitzchok Shonek / Menachem Kramer; 7th Grade - 1st place: Ephraim Boczko & Ari Zelefsky. 2nd place: Dovid Eckhaus & Eli Toiv. 3rd place: Mordechai Kahn / Eliyahu Klein & Nachum Silver. Honorable Mention: Yitzy Gross / Marky Breuer / Yaakov Yosef Finkelstein / Yehoshua Lebowicz & Hillel Schuck; 8th Grade - 1st place: BZ Scheinman. 2nd place: Eli Rockoff. 3rd place: Yonah Yarmush & Chaim Hefter / Ari Keller. Honorable Mention: Avi Mandel / Moshe Galler & Moshe Coronel / Yehuda Rothschild. Inter-Yeshiva Finalists are: BZ Scheinman – Ph-izzy Teeth, Eli Rockoff – Are We On The Same Wave-Length?, Yonah Yarmush & Chaim Hefter – Water Resistance, Ephraim Boczko & Ari Zelefsky – The Five Second Rule, Dovid Eckhaus & Eli Toiv – Static Electricity.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
65
Around the Community
Gesher – Teaming with Yeshivas and with the Community
I
n the winter of 2012 Mrs. Chava Bodner, Director of Gesher, met with Morah Elana Fertig, Director of the Hollander Early Childhood Center of Yeshiva of South Shore, to present the idea of opening a transition preschool for yeshiva day school children. Mrs. Fertig is highly regarded as an educator within our community and well-respected as an innovator in the field of Jewish early childhood education. She is a frequent lecturer and featured speaker at educational conferences, an author of educational material, and leads the early childhood curriculum and training division of the Consortium of Jewish Day Schools (CoJDS). At that meeting in 2012 a strong bond was formed between the two, a bond that continues to grow. Mrs. Fertig was so impressed with Mrs. Bodner’s approach that she, together with the YOSS administration, opened two classrooms in their own Early Childhood Center to host Gesher from 2012 until 2014, when Gesher’s growth demanded a new space. Recently, Mrs. Fertig approached Gesher with the idea of sharing strategies and techniques amongst their staff. Last week a group of morahs and assistant morahs from YOSS visited the Gesher Early Childhood Center to meet with Gesher faculty and to observe some of the multi-sensory inter-disciplinary methods that Gesher employs. It was an enriching experience for all. These tools not only benefit the students who transition from Gesher, but all of the students in the local yeshiva day schools. Gesher’s teaming is not limited
tury Challenge, but for the support that they selflessly provide to many local organizations. Many of the riders are preparing for the upcoming BikeNCSY on June 25th. This past Friday afternoon Gesher sponsored the weekly 5T Riders “Point Lookout Friday Classic.” Just before returning from their roundtrip excursion from Sh’or Yoshuv to Point Lookout the cyclists made a stop at Atlantic Beach Kosher Wines, owned by Marc Glicksman, to enjoy an erev Shabbos kiddush complete with cold drinks, hot kugels, and a variety of herrings.
to the realm of education. Last year Gesher held its first annual Gesher Century Challenge and is currently promoting the GCC II. The success of that campaign was due to the initial participation of the local 5T Riders. The 5T Riders are a group of more than 60 local cyclists who encourage each other and use this leisurely passion to benefit others. Many of them have been annual participants in Bike4Chai of Chai Lifeline, some of them original members of the first group, and have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Chai Lifeline and other worthy causes. (There is also a sister group of female riders who train together and participate in Tour de Simcha, as well as other events.) The 5T Riders are comprised of representatives of every shul and school in the Five Towns, Far Rock-
away and Bayswater, sharing a common interest and forming an enviable camaraderie. Gesher is very appreciative of the 5T Riders, not only for helping to ensure the success of the Gesher Cen-
The Gesher Century Challenge is being held again this year in conjunction with the Huntington Bike Club’s annual Gold Coast Tour and provides a selection of courses for all ages and abilities, including youths and seniors. For more information please visit www.GesherCenturyChallenge.com.
66
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
R E M E M B E R I N G
My Father
R’ Shlomo Shmuel Twersky a”h By Hindy Yudin nèe Twersky
“I
called just to hear your voice” was how my father, R’ Shlomo Shmuel Twersky, a”h, would often begin a phone conversation with me. He knew that I am a busy mother and he just wanted to let me know that he was thinking of me and my family. These calls were often not long in duration but were extensive in their meaningfulness. My father was a caring person who always tried to understand the needs of each and every individual. He personified care and compassion for others. My father had a unique ability to encourage his children, family members and friends to accomplish and perform to the best of their abilities. Many times, the people on the receiving end didn’t even realize their potential until they
were pushed by my father to do so. He always made others feel welcome and wanted. His home was open to anyone in need of physical, emotional, occupational, and religious support and guidance. My father was the only son of the previous Chernobler Rebbe, Harav Yaakov Yisrael Twersky, zt”l. My father was born into a family endowed with an illustrious Chassidic history. He was a “ben achar ben” from Rav Aharon of Chernobel, the Chernobler Maagid, the Meor Einayim and was a descendant of Reb Aharon of Karlin and the Baal Shem Tov, zt”l. He was mechabed his parents tremendously and was very proud of his Chernobler ancestry; anyone who entered
his home was immediately shown the life-size pictures of many of these holy Rebbes hanging on his dining room wall and given a brief historical perspective of who they were and his connection to them. He also had a lot of yechus on his mother/grandmother’s side. They were descendants of the Apta Rav, Reb Yaavo, The Zlocthover Maagid, Reb Pinchos of Koritz, the Rebbes of Neschchiz, Radvil and Orzistchov, zt”l. My great-grandfather, R’ Shlomo Shmuel, escaped from the severe oppression that he faced in Soviet Union and established the Chernobler shul in the confines of Boro Park, Brooklyn, in the 1930s. Unfortunately, his sojourn in America was short-lived as he was niftar a short
while later. His levaya was written up in The New York Times as a great event with the participation of 50 rabbanim and their congregations at that time in New York. In the meantime, my grandfather also succeeded in independently escaping to Eretz Yisroel (pre-state) and was brought to America to replace his father a short while later. His name and address were well-known throughout the world as a place of hachnosas orchim and gemilas chassadim in preand post-war Boro Park. Many people would come to “visit” the Chernobler Shteeble and stay for weeks, months or years. My grandmothers were also involved in chessed activities such as establishing and supporting such important mosdos such as the Bais
67
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Yaakov of Boro Park, Ezras Torah and Torah Vodaath. Continuing in the ways of his holy ancestors, my father developed into a person who always wanted to do for the Klal. He served as a Rav of a shul and as a chaplain at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn. His mesorah and upbringing gave him the foundation for understanding people. My father engrained these attributes into us by maintaining his own home in a similar fashion, whether making a wedding (in his backyard) for a Russian couple married civilly for many years, hosting talmidei chachamim who needed some respite, and hosting shiurim and regularly scheduled minyanim. Even our Pesach seder was really for anyone in need, “kol dichfin yaisai v’yaichol.” My father’s relationship with talmidei chachamim was legendary. All knew that if you wanted to be sho’el eitza by Rav Chaim Kreiswirth, zt”l, you went to Reb Shlomo Twersky’s house because that’s where you would find him when he was in America. Phone calls would come in from around the world when he stayed in our home, and my father cherished those moments tremendously. He was incredibly proud to have hosted this great man in our home and felt that this taught us what it means to be a gadol. My father was also a talmid muvhak of Rav Stein in Telz and Rav Avrohom Kalmanowitz, zt”l, in the Mir. He spent his summers in the seviva of Reb Michel Birnbaum, zt”l, and, yb”lc, Rav Hillel David and Rav Yisroel Garber. He had a special friendship and relationship with Rav Aharon Kahn and would love to talk in learning (and other subjects) with him for hours at a time.
During shiva, a man relayed to us how much my father helped him achieve his potential. He explained that my father would shop in a store where he worked and encouraged him to continue his education. The man told us that he now has a social work degree and “it’s your father I have to thank.” This personified my father’s special character trait of finding joy in other people’s successes. He exemplified an ayin tov. When others achieved their goals my father was truly happy for them. He believed in the power of an individual’s own strength and capabilities. My father possessed a sense of foresight and was the founder of the Touro College Physician Assistant (PA) program. He was one of the first students and (at the same time) administrator for the PA program, which other schools then replicated for themselves. He gave hundreds of people the ability to survive and thrive by giving them the credentials they needed to succeed in life. Thousands of today’s PAs were influenced by his innovative mind in creating and developing this program. Furthermore, my father had been a mentor for many individuals trying to find their place in life. He would review numerous applications, conduct mock interviews, and allow budding PAs to shadow him as he provided guidance to many students throughout his career. Every student of my father’s was treated like his own child. Our father was our cheerleader, our patriarch, and our mechanech. My father encouraged each child (sons- and daughters-in-law included) to accomplish and reach their potential. He believed in us and, as a result, we believed in ourselves. He
was mechanech us with love. My father was very involved with his children and grandchildren. He learned Torah with many of them over the years, helped research many science projects, and edited papers. My father always had a smile on his face. He greeted everyone with a funny anecdote and something to make them smile. My father truly sought out and found the good in every person, he didn’t focus on or see
securityalerts@rockawaynassau.org
@rockawaynassau
the bad in others. He only wanted to help people and improve ways for others to make a parnassa. His infectious smile and warm heart, will be missing from our lives. How auspicious it is that his shloshim occurs on Shabbos, 2 Iyar, the day affectionately referred to by Klal Yisroel as “Yom Ha’meyuchas.” He truly was a “meyuchasdige” individual in every sense of the word. Yehi zichro boruch .
.com/RockawayNassauPatrol
@Rockaway_Nassau_Patrol
2017 RNSP ANNUAL
BICYCLE & ELECTRONIC OPEN DEVICE ETCHING TO THE EN
YOUR S BRING PTOP TS, LA TABLE , GPS AND ES PHON LECTRONIC E OTHER VICES DE
TIR COMM E UNITY
!
SUNDAY, JUNE 4 @1:00 - 4:00PM READS LANE (CORNER OF ELVIRA) FAR ROCKAWAY - THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS -
STEVEN AUTO PARTS
COLLISION Zevy Goldberg | Noson Josephy 1205 Coney Island Avenue Brooklyn NY
BROADWAY KITCHEN, LTD.
COFFEE BAR
EZRA PHARMACY
925 STERLING
68
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
speci
05/28/17 - 06/02/17
ls
1913 Cornaga Avenue • Far Rockaway • T. 718.471.7555 F. 718.471.9102 E. orders@Frankelskosher.com
Extra Large
Hecker's
Dozen
5 Lb. Bag
Gefilte Fish Eggs Loaf
2.99
Fresh & Healthy
Medium
Whipped 8 Oz.
Cream Cheese
Only
3.99
$
$
Schreiber's
Watermelon Egg Sweet Challah 60 Size
1.95
0.69
$
Whole
Flour
2.99
$
1.79
$
$
Mendelsohn
Sabra
Kineret
Golden Flow
4 Slice
All Varieties Square Container
24 Oz. Box
1 Lb. Bag
Pizza
Guacamole
3.99
Cookie Dough
2/$5.00
$
$
Givat
Sabra
Haolam
Mehadrin
All Varieties
Family Size 17 Oz.
Sliced
Regular Only
Yogolite
4.49
Chummus
0.65
SUPER SHAVUOS DAIRY BLOWOUT SPECIALS
Muenster Cheese
Cream Cheese Whipped 8 Oz.
2.79
Fresh & Healthy
Fresh & Healthy
16 Oz.
8 Oz.
Ricotta Cheese
INFO@ FRANKELS KOSHER. COM
2.99
$
$
Hatov
Klein's
1 Lb.
Half Gallon Dairy
Sour Cream
Sign Up For Special Emails And Extra Savings At
Cream Cheese Bar
2.99
$
2.99
$
$
4/$5.00
Norman's
Tree Ripe
Golden Taste
All Varieties
59 Oz.
5.99
Fridays At Frankel's Free Ices For The Children!
$
2/$5.00
Shefa
Shefa
0.65
Now Available
Techina
Glatt Kosher
Beef Flanken Chulent Meat Boneless
10.99 Lb
$
6.99 Lb
$
3.99 Lb
5.99 Lb
$
1.99
$2.39
$
Schreiber's
Square
Delicious
Cheese Cakes All Varieties
5.29
$
Gefen
Rainbow Cookies
2.99
$
Beverages
Apple Juice 4 Pk
Vintage
Seltzer 1 Liter
Schreiber's
Sweet Roll W/ Cup Of Coffee
0.75
$
1.75
3/$2.00
Fresh Daily
Rye Bread
Frescorti
Marinara Sauce
2.79
Poland Water
1.00
$
Fruity & Cocoa Pebbles Cereal 15 Oz. Box
3.49
$
Cinammon Toast Crunch Cereal 17.2 Oz. Box
3.99
$
Ronzoni
Lieber's
9 Oz. Bag
#80
12 Oz. Squeeze
Chocolate Chips
3.49
$
2.99
$
Gold's
16 Oz. Can
Sweet N ' Sour 40 Oz. Jar
Dill Gherkins
Tuna
Baked Beans
Chunk Light In Water 6 Oz. Can
24 Oz. Jar
1.99
Duck Sauce
$
4/ 5.00
4/ 5.00
$
Paskesz
Pringles
Heinz
Dole
16 Oz. Pkg.
Reg/Bbq/Light Salt Lg. Can
Amazing Price!! 2 X 50.5 Oz.
20 Oz. Can
2/ 5.00
2/ 3.00
$
$
Creme Filled Potato Sandwich Cookies Chips $
Ketchup Double Pack
6.99
$
2.99
Pineapple Slices
$
2/$3.00
Golden
Cello
Produce Sugar Sweet
Cello
1/4'S
1 Lb. Bag
Watermelon
0.75 Lb
Carrots
Yams
3 Lb. Bag
2/$1.00
$
2/$3.00
Golden
Extra Firm
Positive
First Of The Season!
8 Oz. Bag
Bing
Pineapples Ripe
0.55 Lb
Onions
$
Macintosh Apples
Romaine
1.25 Lb
3.99
$
Cherries
3.99 Lb
$
$
Lasagna Pans
Ner Mitzvah
Household Plastic Plates 9 Inch
3.99
Honey Or Almond 14.5 Oz.
1.75
Honey
Heinz
$
Honey Bunches Of Oats
16 Oz. Box
1.95
Bounty
Towels 15 Pk
100 Ct
Post
Lasagna $
All Varieties 16 Oz. Bottle
Cereal Post
Lieber's
Gefen
Snapple
1.25
21.99*
Only $
$
Ice Cold!
$
2 Fresh Pizza Pies
B&G
2.99 Ea
Ice Cold!
7.99
$
$
2 -LB. Loaf
$
6 Oz. Pkg
Grocery
$
Sports Bottle 24 Oz.
$
$
Nova Lox
*Pizzas Must Be Ordered And Picked Up From Avi's Pizza *Price Available With $25.00 Purchase
$
We now accept
Now Available Fresh Daily At Frankel's
Schreiber's
1.89 Lb
$
Sushi!
Bakery
Whole Chickens
Thin
Pack
Daily At Frankel's
Extra Large
Regular Only 26 Oz. Jar
Top Quality Meat & Poultry
Ground Beef Chicken Freshly Cutlets Family
FRESH FISH
Mommy's Eggplant
Extra Large
1.95
Meat Department
Orange Juice
2/$5.00
And Enjoy
$
Taste Yogurt
1/2 Gallon
Frankels kosher.com
Free Delivery!
2.99
Greek Yogurt
Fresh & Healthy
Place Your Orders At
Ice Cream
$
3.99
2.99
$
Milk Enjoy The Frankel’s Way!!
Broccoli Cuts
$
6 Oz. Pkg
Givat/Hatov
Extended Su: 7-10 HHooliuday rs Mon: 7-11 Tu: 7-5 We: closed Th: closed Fri: 7-5:00
Dairy - Frozen
Major Deals Maven Gourmet
Store Hours:
weekly
Order by Email: orders@Frankelskosher.com or Online: www.FrankelsKosher.com
Deep
9 X 13
13.99
$
10/$1.99
Memorial Yahrtzeit Tins 1 Day
5/$1.99
Quaker
Life Cereal
Reg / Cinammon 13 Oz. Box
2.99
$
FREE
COFFEE
Free Parking Frankel's Free Parking Just Got Bigger And Better!
FLOWERS Now Available For
SHABBOS!
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
ArtisticGraphics
ole esh aromas Frankel's
Just in me Shvuas
Schreiber's
free tasting!ake
ec fresh chmeoerse &
Coming s n!
Full line of fresh Challos and Rugelach baked on premises.
Thur May 25
2-5 pm
T. 718.471.7555 • F. 718.471.9102 • E. ORDERS@FRANKELSKOSHER.COM W. FRANKELSKOSHER.COM • A. 1913 Cornaga Avenue, Far Rockaway
69
1.
MAY 25, 2017 The Jewish HomeHome OCTOBER 29,| 2015 | The Jewish
TJH
Centerfold Riddle me
You gotta be kidding A trio of old veterans were bragging and joking about the heroic exploits of their ancestors one afternoon down at the VFW hall. “My great-grandfather, at age 13,” one declared proudly, “was a drummer boy at Shiloh.” “Mine,” boasted another, “went down with Custer at the Battle of Little Big Horn.” “I’m the only soldier in my family,” confessed vet number three, “but if my great grandfather was living today he’d be the most famous man in the world.” “Really? What’d he do?” his friends wanted to know. “Nothing much. But he would be 165-years-old.”
this?
Captain Frank and some of the boys were exchanging old war stories. Art Bragg offered one about how his grandfather led a battalion against a German division during World War I. Through brilliant maneuvers, he defeated them and captured valuable territory. After the battle he was presented with a sword bearing the inscription: “To Captain Bragg for Bravery, Daring and Leadership. World War I. From the Men of Battalion.” Captain Frank looked at Art and said, “You really don’t expect anyone to believe that yarn, do you?” What’s wrong with the story? See answer below
Military Slang
(Match each word with the correct definition) 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
Fitty Hit the Silk Klicks Moonbeam Rack time Bravo Zulu Soup sandwich Got your six Fruit Salad Blue Falcon Crumb Catcher Fang Grape Oxygen Thief Puddle Pirate
A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. J. K. L. M. N. O.
I’ve got your back. Well Done Flashlight. An easy assignment To sleep The Display of medals and ribbons on ones uniform A soldier whose performance is unsatisfactory M2 .50 caliber machine gun Mouth backstabber Member of the Coast Guard. Rebuke Ejecting from an aircraft Someone who’s useless or talks too much Kilometers see answers on next page
Answer to riddle: World War I wasn’t called “World War I” until World War II took place.
70 24
The Jewish | MAY 29, 25, 2017 The Jewish HomeHome | OCTOBER 2015
Pentagon Facts •
Although a building of the Pentagon’s size normally would take approximately 4 years to build, the Pentagon took just 16 months to build.
satellite imagery to observe many military officers entering and exiting a structure in the center of the Pentagon’s courtyard and they concluded that it was the entrance to an underground bunker. It was actually a hot dog stand. Since it was presumed that the Russians had their missiles zeroed in on this structure, the hot dog stand • earned the nickname “Cafe Ground Zero, the deadliest hot dog stand in the world.”
•
The 9/11 attacks, one of which took place when a plane crashed into the Pentagon and killed 184 people, took place on the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking of the Pentagon.
•
There are 17.5 miles of corridors in the Pentagon.
•
Despite its vastness, the Pentagon was designed so that you can move between any two points in the Pentagon in about 10 minutes.
•
•
The Pentagon has 284 bathrooms, which is twice as many as is needed, because it was built during segregation.
Major Leslie Groves who oversaw the day-today construction of the Pentagon also oversaw the Manhattan Project, which successfully developed the world’s first atomic bomb.
•
•
During the Cold War the Russians used
Approximately 25,000 people work in the Pentagon and approximately 100,000 emails are sent daily from the Pentagon.
• There is no marble in the Pentagon, as it was built during World War II, and Italy, the source of marble, was an enemy country.
Answers to MilitaRY SLANG Answers 1-H 2-M 3-O 4-C 5-E 6-B 7- G 8- A
Wisdom key 9-F 10- J 11-I 12- L 13- D 14- N 15- K
13-15 correct: Bravo Zulu! 9-12 correct: Your fruit salad ain’t bad! 5-8 correct: You spent too much time rack-timing it while you were in The Service 0-4 correct: You’re a total grape. You probably spent your time as a puddle pirate.
25 71
72
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Torah Thought
Parshas Bamidbar By Rabbi Berel Wein
T
he necessity to continually count the Jewish people, evidenced in this week’s Torah reading and, in fact, in the balance of the text of the remainder of this book of the Torah, remains a perplexing issue. The rabbis of the Talmud and the later commentators to the Torah saw this continual counting of the Jewish people as a sign of G-d’s love for Israel. A person who has rare valuables or a refined collection of art or another type of memorabilia views the collection often and with personal satisfaction and even on exhibit for others to admire. People count their change when purchasing items from a store and review their bank statements on a regular basis. Things of value require counting and cataloging. That is human nature. The L-rd, so to speak, shows His respect and His hopeful investment in the Jewish people by counting and cataloging them on a regular basis. The rabbis recognized this human characteristic of counting things that we deem to be of worth and value by stating that when one
recites prayers one should do so as though counting money or valuable coins. There apparently is no better
sorption by other items. All countries and organizations take a regular accounting of their
Because of the essence of human beings, every one being different and unique, the Jewish tradition has always been to conduct such counts in an indirect fashion.
metaphor for care, respect and even love of the object – in this case, prayer – than comparing it to actually counting money. The rabbis again reinforced this idea by stating that items that are sold by the count are not subject to the usual laws of cancellation and nullification. Each item, if it is counted, has a unique value that is not subject to comparisons and ab-
inhabitants, members and affiliates. There are many practical reasons for so doing but again, ultimately, it is an expression of worth, respect and even affection. Throughout the books of the prophets we find that regular counts of the Jewish people took place in biblical times. Because of the essence of human beings, every one being different and unique, the Jewish tradition has always
been to conduct such counts in an indirect fashion. In our current society where government supervision of individuals is omnipresent, we always have a current and quite accurate count of the population of the country at any given moment. This would be an exaggeration for me to state that the government does so as an expression of its love for its citizens and inhabitants. Nevertheless, it is a measure of importance and the count tells us a great deal about the progress and direction of our society. One of the great miracles that the State of Israel represents to us is the enormous growth of the Jewish population living in this country over the past century. The early Zionist leaders had a wild dream that eventually there would be five million Jews living here. We have lived to see that number greatly surpassed in the span of this last century. This also is an example of the love that Heaven has for the land and people of Israel. Shabbat shalom.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
73
74
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
From the Fire
Parshas Bamidbar In the Name of Shame By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf
How can the experience of embarrassment be a positive quality?
T
osafos explains (Megillah 31b) that Parshas Bamidbar is always read on the Shabbos before Shavuos. One of the focal points of our parsha is (Bamidbar 2:2) “The Jewish People encamp each person by his division, by the flags of his father’s house; they camped opposite and surrounding the Tent of Meeting.” In the desert, the Jewish people camped with the Mishkan in the central position, the Levi’im in the middle circle, and the other tribes in the outer circle. If this is a focal point of the parsha which is read just before Shavuos, we must understand how our encampments and flags are central to properly receiving the Torah. There is an often-overlooked
pasuk in which the Torah identifies the purpose of the giving of the Torah on Shavuos. The pasuk (Shemos 20:16) says, “Moshe said to the nation, ‘Do not fear because Hashem [has come] in order to lift you up and in order that fear of Him should be upon your faces so that you will never sin.’” Rashi explains that the Hebrew word nisos means “lifting up and elevation,” as in the pasuk (Yeshaya 62:10) says, ‘Lift up a flag [nes].’” We therefore see that the purpose of Sinai was to lift us up so that we will attain a fear of G-d which will help us avoid sin. In what way does fear of G-d help us avoid sin? The Gemara (Nedarim 20a) says, “‘In order that the fear of Him should be upon your faces,’ refers to embarrassment, ‘so that you will never sin,’ teaches that embarrassment brings to fear of sin ... Anyone who has the trait of embarrassment will not soon come to
sin and if someone lacks the trait of embarrassment, his parents certainly never stood at Mount Sinai.” We see from here that the critical “takeaway point” from the Sinai experience was attaining the quality of embarrassment, which is the key to the self-motivation to avoid sin. In fact, Chazal tell us that this trait (embarrassment) is one of the hallmarks of a Jew (Yevamos 79a). We might have thought perhaps that the quality of embarrassment is a good trait, but is tangential to a Jew’s nature. These teachings, however, demonstrate that the attainment of the quality of embarrassment is an essential part of the purpose of the Sinai experience and what it means to be a Jew. What, then, is the source of the quality of embarrassment? The Alter of Novardok, in his essay “The Essence of Truth,” explains the foundation of the trait of embar-
rassment through the story of Eliyahu HaNavi on Har Carmel. At that time, during the reign of Achav and Izevel, the worship of the Baal was rampant among the vast majority of the Jewish people, even though the people believed in and served Hashem as well. Achav’s wife, Izevel, had all of Hashem’s prophets executed. The only survivor was Eliyahu who, in his zeal to uphold G-d’s honor, decreed a famine in the land which lasted three years. After three years, the people begged Eliyahu to rescind the decree and end the famine. He agreed, on the condition that they hold a “showdown” between the prophets of the Baal and himself, Eliyahu, to demonstrate the falsity of Baal worship. They agreed, but before the “contest” between the 450 prophets of the Baal and Eliyahu began, he gave the Jewish people the following introduction (Melachim I
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
18:21): “How long will you dance on two sides of the fence?! If Hashem is G-d, go after Him! And if Baal is, go after him!” Rashi explains that the two sides of the fence are the two thoughts regarding who G-d is.
Eliyahu’s Lesson The Alter of Novardok explained that the purpose of Eliyahu’s introduction was to sensitize Klal Yisrael to the fact that Divine service and Baal worship are mutually exclusive; the two cannot coexist. He wanted to infuse them with “a feeling of contradiction.” They must realize that the worship of Hashem and Baal cannot coexist. They cannot have it both ways. In response to Hashem’s demonstration on Mount Carmel that only He is G-d, and not the Baal, the Jewish people responded enthusiastically (ibid. 18:39), “Hashem is G-d! Hashem is G-d!” The root and foundation of the trait of embarrassment is the feeling one experiences when he realizes that he is living a contradictory life. When one recognizes that, he feels embarrassed to continue deluding himself into thinking that he can “have it all.” Why do people think they can live this double life? Chazal (Shabbos 31b) say that “the wicked know their path ends in death.” Chazal also teach (as quoted by the Alter Rebbe in Tanya, perek 11) that “the wicked are full of regrets.” Why do people continue sinning even when they know it is wrong and that they will not profit from it in the long term? It is because they only know this intellectually, but lack hargashas hastira, feeling the contradiction. They do not feel embarrassed by sinning because they lack a conscious awareness that the way they live and what they know to be true are mutually exclusive. The Gemara (Shabbos 119b) says, “Yerushalayim was only destroyed because people had no embarrassment in front of one another.” To give some more modern examples, we have people who use their iPhone as a siddur and say, sincerely, in shemoneh esrei, “Forgive us, our Father, for we have sinned!” and then half an hour later, the same
person is looking at inappropriate pictures and videos on that same iPhone, may Hashem protect us. Another person cries over the spilled blood of a precious Jewish soldier killed by terrorists in Eretz Yisroel, and the very same day, he humiliates his wife and children, which Chazal teach (Bava Metzia 58b) is like spilling blood! We have women who believe sincerely and wholeheartedly in Hashem but who walk into shul wearing skirts that do not even approach their knees. To give a more extreme example, we have all heard stories of rebbeim who teach children how to read the Torah and
Contradictions Rav Yaakov Galinsky offers a humorous parable to illustrate the contradictions with which we live. He tells a story of a gentile in the shtetl who saw another gentile friend of his leaving a shul. He asked his friend what he is doing in the Jews’ shul, and the friend answered him that he dresses up as a Jew, walks around in shul saying, “Tzedakah, tzedakah,” and the Jewish people are merciful and give him plenty of money. “I probably make more money without all the work and sweat that you endure!” he told his friend. Liking the idea, the other
The root and foundation of the trait of embarrassment is the feeling one experiences when he realizes that he is living a contradictory life.
daven, and after class they murder these children by molesting them. Let us consider the man who sponsors the Choshen Mishpat kollel in the mornings, who studies halachic civil law every day, but when he goes to work he fails to disclose the money he earned off the books for tax purposes, he steals from a gentile, or enters into contractual agreements with no intention of fulfilling his part of the bargain unless the other side forces him to. How can we live with such contradictions?! Each one of us has something that he is guilty of, some way in which he or she is living a double-life. We are not embarrassed because we lack that hargashas hastira. Our job as Sinai Jews is to at least feel embarrassed about what we are doing wrong, which is an important first step even if we haven’t yet mustered up the courage to change. We must align our lives more and more with Hashem and less with the “other side.”
man learned what to say, proceeded to obtain the necessary clothing and went to shul the next day asking for tzedakah and the people responded generously! Pleased with his success, he continued going from shul to shul, collecting, but then he noticed another collector in one of the shuls who was doing noticeably better than he was, so he asked the man his secret. The man told him that he is a ger tzedek, a convert, and that Jewish people have a special feeling for converts. Noting the Hebrew word for convert, he began saying, “Tzedakah for a ger tzedek!” Indeed, people began giving him even more than before. As the man continued collecting, he saw another person collecting even more successfully. People did not just give him their spare change. They gave him bills! So he approached this person and asked him why everyone was so generous with him. The successful collector explained that he was a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov, and that the
75
Jewish People have a special feeling for the descendants of tzaddikim. Noting the Hebrew expression for a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov, the man began attempting to collect the next day, calling out, “Tzedakah for a ger tzedek, a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov!” Needless to say, his luck ran out. But we live with contradictions as preposterous as this swindler. We must begin recognizing that we are living a life of contradictions. Once we feel that, we will feel embarrassment and will then be able to change. The trait of embarrassment is why it was not enough that Hashem told us on Har Sinai, “I am Hashem your G-d.” He also had to tell us, “You shall have no other gods before Me.” We must recognize that we cannot dance on both sides of the fence, between the two disparate ideologies of Yiddishkeit on one hand and some other power to which we are beholden on the other. We must see that there is a contradiction. We cannot serve Hashem one minute and then our other masters the next minute. If we work now in these days leading up to Shavuos to cultivate the sensitivity to be embarrassed by our lives’ contradictions, we will then be worthy of the tremendous covenant entrusted to us at Sinai and we will prove that we are people whose ancestors indeed stood at Sinai to receive the Torah. As the pasuk says in this week’s parsha, the center of the Jewish camp is the Mishkan, Hashem’s dwelling place. We must ensure that all aspects of our lives surrounding that center are consistent with it. With Hashem’s help, may we merit to receive the Torah and attain the sensitivity to be embarrassed by any inconsistency in our lives which contradicts our Divine service. May we then merit the day when we can cry out for a final time, without any embarrassment or shame, “Hashem is G-d! Hashem is G-d!
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.
76
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Between the Lines
Mission: Possible By Eytan Kobre
In order to attain the impossible, one must attempt the absurd. -Miguel de Cervantes
A
utomobile genius (and notorious anti-Semite) Henry Ford once devised a revolutionary plan for a revolutionary type of engine. Eager to get his great new idea into production, Ford had his workers draw up plans and present them to his engineers. All the engineers who studied the drawings arrived at the same conclusion: impossible. Their boss might be a visionary, but he knew nothing of the fundamental principles of engineering. “Produce it anyway,” said Ford. “But it’s impossible,” they insisted. “Just start,” Ford commanded, “and do your best.” So for six months, the engineers struggled with drawing after drawing and design after design. Nothing. Another six months. Again nothing. After a year, Ford consulted his engineers, who reiterated that Ford’s dream engine just was not feasible. But Ford still told them to keep going and do their best. They did. And eventually they built the first single-piece V-8 engine – the pioneer in
“hot rod” engines. When G-d commanded him to count all Levites from the age of 30-days-old and up, Moshe was near despair (Rashi, Bamidbar 3:16). “How can I enter all their tents,” he questioned, “to know the precise number of children inside?” So G-d replied, “You do yours, and I’ll do mine” (Bamidbar Rabba 3:9). And that’s what happened. Moshe stood at the entrance to each tent, and a Heavenly voice announced the number of children inside. Too often, we are dissuaded from doing what’s right because we believe, however correctly, that the goal is simply unattainable. Impossible! we tell ourselves. But how many “impossible” feats are not achieved because we never even try? G-d’s assurance – “you do your part and I’ll do mine” – teaches us to do our best…He will do the rest. Moshe saw this pledge actualized time and again. When Pharaoh’s daughter found him floating in the Nile River, she stretched out her hand to grasp him – extending 60 or 200 cubits into the river – even though Moshe was well out of reach (Shemos 2:5; Megilla 15b). She wasn’t dissuaded from attempting the impossible (Ma’asei L’Melech, Shemos 2:5). And, after
giving it her all, she succeeded in reeling him in and raising him as her own. After completing construction of the Mishkan’s components and vessels, the Jewish people brought them to Moshe because, try as they might, they simply were not strong enough to erect its wooden boards. When Moshe himself questioned how he, or any human, could possibly raise the Mishkan, G-d replied, “You get busy with your hands” (Rashi, Shemos 39:33). I’ll do the rest. And, again, so it was. Moshe attempted to lift the Mishkan’s boards, and then G-d intervened and the boards lifted themselves. Because when we do our best, G-d really does do the rest. The saintly brothers R’ Elimelech of Lizhensk and R’ Zisha of Anipoli often sojourned together across the countryside, posing as commoners to inspire simple folk. They would mingle with the masses, listen, teach, speak, help, and guide. On one such journey, the local authorities accused the duo of some thievery on trumped-up charges and shoved them into jail. Ever faithful that G-d would secure their release, the brothers remained completely calm, and, as morning faded to afternoon, R’ Elimelech prepared himself to pray.
“Just what do you think you’re doing?” R’ Zisha asked. “There’s a bucket in the corner of this cell that serves as a toilet, and it is forbidden to pray here.” R’ Elimelech was crestfallen. Was imprisonment not enough? Now he could not even pray? “What’s wrong?” R’ Zisha prodded. “The same Gd that commanded you to pray under ordinary circumstances also commanded you not to pray when the room is unfit for prayer! You’re doing the best you can do under the circumstances. By not praying now, you’re achieving the same connection with Gd that you would otherwise achieve through prayer.” R’ Elimelech now beamed with joy. “You’re right, dear brother!” And he grabbed R’ Zisha’s arm and began to dance. The jail guards heard the commotion and came running. Seeing the two Jews dancing – long beards and long coats and flowing fringes – the guards demanded an explanation. “We have no idea,” the other prisoners answered. “Those two Jews were discussing that bucket in the corner, when they suddenly became overjoyed and began to dance.” “Oh, is that so?” sneered the guards. “They’re happy because of
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
the bucket, eh? We’ll show them!” The guards promptly snatched the bucket from the cell. And R’ Zisha turned to R’ Elimelech and said with a grin, “Now, my brother, you may pray.” We are tasked with doing our best in the circumstances we are given; the rest is up to G-d – and He does His part. “In all your ways know Him, and He will straighten your paths” (Mishlei 3:6). If in all our ways our goal is to serve G-d as best we can, He will take care of the rest. This is one of our fundamental tenets, “a small chapter that encapsulates all the salient parts of the Torah” (Berachos 63b; Bi’ur HaGra, Orach Chaim 1). Indeed, the Alter of Novardok was wont to observe, “I never wonder about whether I can accomplish a certain task; I contemplate only whether I am obligated to accomplish that task. If I’m obligated to accomplish it, I am necessarily able to do so.” When the Jewish people were daunted by the thought of invading
the Land of Israel and battling its powerful natives, Calev declared, “We shall surely go up and conquer it, for we can surely do it!” (Bamidbar 13:30). When a person is willing
we conclude the counting of the Omer and approach Shavuos. While we are told to count fifty days from Pesach to Shavuos (Vayikra 23:16), it is no secret that we
Seeing the two Jews dancing – long beards and long coats and flowing fringes – the guards demanded an explanation.
to do everything possible to achieve a goal, G-d facilitates even the impossible (Rashi and Darash Moshe, Bamidabr 13:20). So, were the Torah itself attainable only in the Heavens, we would be charged with ascending the Heavens and reaching it – and we would be able to do so (Rashi, Devarim 30:12; Eruvin 55a). This idea is especially timely as
never actually get to fifty. These fifty days, explains R’ Moshe Shapiro, correspond to the famous fifty levels of purity and their counterpart levels of impurity. Just as the fiftieth level of impurity would result in the destruction of the Jewish people, so too the fiftieth level of purity is physically unattainable. We nonetheless work towards that goal. And when
77
we achieve the forty-ninth level – the zenith of what man alone can achieve – G-d fills in the fiftieth. It is no coincidence that the circumstances surrounding the giving of the Torah are unknown, in a place we cannot pinpoint (somewhere in the desert) and at a time we cannot ascertain (either the sixth or seventh day of Sivan) (Shabbos 86b). This was by design. Life does not always place us in the “right” place at the “right” time. Like Moshe and like R’ Elimelech and R’ Zisha, we inevitably find ourselves tasked with accomplishing something that seems impossible. And when we do, all we need remember is G-d’s assurance – “You do yours and I’ll do mine.” Because the service of G-d always is Mission: Possible.
Eytan Kobre is a writer, speaker, mediator, and attorney living in Kew Gardens Hills. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? E-mail eakobre@outlook.com.
78
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Observant Jew
Do You Validate Parking? By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
A
few weeks ago, I began to notice that I seemed to be getting a number of very good parking spaces. I would go to the supermarket and someone would pull out of a space right in front of the store as I arrived. Making another trip there? Well, here’s a nice spot, right in the shade. When I arrived at work, there was a space three cars from the door. I knew that G-d was providing me with valet parking. It’s not new to me, as half a dozen years ago my rabbi spoke about asking Hashem for things. It doesn’t matter how mundane they are because since everything comes from G-d it’s important to acknowledge that by asking. For example, when going to buy shoes, say, “Hashem, please help me find a good pair that will fit comfortably, last a long time, and be a good price.” So, when I need to park, I pray, “Please, G-d, send me a good parking spot, close to the door, where it’s easy to get into.” At the mall once, my friend said, “I hope G-d has more important things to do than find you a parking spot.” I replied, “He doesn’t. He does everything so nothing is beneath Him.” To prove my point I offered up a little prayer, and a car pulled out from a spot right by the door. Now, I’m not saying it was because my prayers are so effective, but in that case maybe it was to show my friend that Hashem is directly and intimately involved in our day-to-day lives and, as they say, “No job is too small.” One day I went to a shul that is notorious for a shortage of parking.
I offered up my prayer, then drove to the beginning of the block, right across from the entrance, and paused for a minute. I imagined that someone might pull out any minute. As I paused, another car went around me and got a space perhaps three carlengths in front of me. I realized that had I not been waiting for a closer spot, I would have driven far enough up ahead to see that one. Instead, I ended up driving perhaps another fifty yards down the block, quite a trek in the damp, rainy air. So, was I upset that the other guy got “my spot”? Nope. Because the
one evening in Manhattan when I was meeting someone at a restaurant. Looking for a spot in the pouring rain, I spied one not too far away. I parallel-parked in one shot, quite impressed with my skills and thankful to G-d that it had been so easy. When I got out of the car, however, and saw that I had mere inches both in front and in back of my car, I knew that there was no physical way I could have made it into the spot if G-d had not guided me. Thankfully, when I came out, the car in front of me had left so I was able to pull right out. As a teen, I remember one of the
I know that nothing happens by chance, not even the seemingly mundane act of finding a parking spot. corollary to knowing that my close spots come from Hashem is knowing that the far ones do too. The other guy didn’t get “my spot.” He got “his” spot. In fact, I recognize that Hashem was saving the spot for him and it was never an option for me. In other words, I validate parking – I understand and acknowledge that there is a rationale beyond that which my eyes can see. I know that nothing happens by chance, not even the seemingly mundane act of finding a parking spot. (I’d imagine many people agree with me that sometimes it takes a miracle to find a place to park.) I remember
yeshiva faculty who would frequently park in the middle of the street, often at crazy angles to the road. In actuality, what happened was that when he arrived, people had already parked around his parking space, and he parked around them. When they left, he looked like he had chosen to park in a random area. It happened to me at work one day. I had just given my spot at the curb to another driver and driven off. I realized I needed to go back in for a minute. Well, the driver parked in the middle of the two available spots, so I pulled up behind him, partially
blocking a driveway which I believed would remain unoccupied for the next few hours. I put on my hazard lights and ran in. When I came out, I was greeted with a very comical sight. He had left, there were two free spaces, and some lunatic’s car was sitting blocking a driveway with his hazards blinking! Oh yeah, that was me. It struck me again how silly it must have looked to someone who didn’t know the backstory, but since I did, I was able to validate my own parking and understand there was a reason for this scene. I made the connection that many times in life we see people getting what we wanted, blocking us from our goals, and seemingly looking like they randomly ended up impinging on our lives. The truth, of course, is that we don’t see what else might have been in the way that made them end up there. It was all part of Hashem’s plan to put them, and all of us, exactly where He wants us. So now that you understand that, ask yourself this question: Will you validate His parking? 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.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
79
80
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
My Israel Home
With All Due Diligence Respect By Gedaliah Borvick
W
e recently were involved in a very small deal in Jerusalem, and I mean tiny. We sold a 15 square meter (sqm), or approximately 160 square foot, studio in Rechavia for 500,000 NIS, or $130,000. Everything about the unit appeared to be kosher, despite its diminutive size: the building drawings were recorded in the municipality and the unit was registered in TABU (land registry). Accordingly, and against our advice, the purchaser did not apply for a mortgage prior to signing the contract, as he had good credit and was only planning to borrow a relatively small portion of the purchase price. That was a mistake. In Israel, no contracts of sale are signed “subject to” financing or an engineer’s report. All due diligence must be completed prior to contract execution because canceling a signed
contract subjects the buyer to a hefty 10% penalty. In our case, the buyer applied for a small mortgage and the bank appraiser requested to see the land registry drawings and the building permit. We located the registered drawings but were unable to unearth the original building permit. Consequently, the bank refused to give a mortgage to the buyer. In the past, lenders did not require building permits. If an apartment was registered in TABU with accurate building drawings, the banks were satisfied. Three years ago, however, financiers became more cautious and tightened their lending requirements. Consequently, buyers today must ascertain during the pre-contract due diligence period what they can borrow – and they should keep in mind that without a building permit, there is a good chance that they will
not receive a mortgage. Understand that you’re not home free just because a building permit exists. You must also demonstrate that the existing apartment conforms with the building permit. If you purchase an apartment that was originally built in accordance with the building permit but was subsequently illegally extended, banks will give a mortgage based only upon the value of the legal space. In addition, they will subtract the cost to remove the illegal extension. One attorney recently told me that her client wanted to buy a 100 sqm apartment, but only 60 sqm was legal. Regrettably, the amount of the mortgage was based on the value of the 60 sqm of legal space, less the cost of resetting the apartment back to its original size. The reality is that the borrower is not going to eliminate the illegal space – nor, for that matter, is it a bank requirement to do
so – though this caveat shows how cautious lenders have become when dealing with illegal construction. Returning to the story of the miniscule Rechavia studio, the bank denied the mortgage application but fortunately our client found the cash to close the deal. Had the buyer been forced to cancel the contract, he would have been subject to the 10% penalty. Moral of the story: Surround yourself with seasoned, honest real estate professionals who will ensure that you thoroughly complete all necessary due diligence prior to signing the contract. Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home (www.myisraelhome.com), a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@ gmail.com.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
81
50 82
OCTOBER 29, |2015 The Jewish MAY 25, 2017 The |Jewish HomeHome
Jerusalem Reunited
Congress Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Jerusalem’s Reunification By Tammy Mark
Mr Oliner and his family at the event
F
rom the illuminated walls of the Old City to the community festivities held at schools and synagogues, Jews around the world celebrated one of the most significant dates in Israel’s history this week. Yom Yerushalayim, Jerusalem Day, commemorates the 1967 reunification of Jerusalem after the Six Day War. While the reunification is celebrated annually as an Israeli national holiday with many festivities, 2017 marks a new milestone – the 50th “Jubilee” anniversary of the reunification of the city of Jerusalem. With all of the tremendous celebrations throughout Israel and Jewish communities worldwide, perhaps the most noteworthy commemoration took place in the United States. The
Religious Zionists of America lead 25 other major Jewish organizations to Washington, D.C., to mark the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. 29 senators and congressmen took part in marking Israel’s victory over Arab aggressors in the Six Day War. The groundbreaking event, held in Congress last Thursday, was livestreamed and viewed by thousands around the world. The Religious Zionists of America (RZA) is a 115-year-old movement whose goals include instilling a commitment to religious Zionism in the American Jewish community, the preservation of Jewish political freedom, the enhancement of Jewish religious life in the land of Israel, and the promotion of immigration to Israel.
RZA co-president and event organizer Martin Oliner welcomed senators and congressmen from both sides of the political aisle. Representatives from New York included Eliot Engel, Kathleen Rice and Jerry Nadler. Oliner, who also serves as the chairman of the Center for Righteousness and Integrity (CRI), praised the Congressional event as a resounding success. The event was co-sponsored by 25 organizations including B’nai B’rith International, Emunah of America, Hadassah, State of Israel Bonds, Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, Jewish National Fund, Simon Wiesenthal Center and Yeshiva University, as well as many others from across religious spectrum whose agendas are not always necessarily in alignment.
The Jewish HomeHome | OCTOBER The Jewish | MAY 29, 25, 2015 2017
Soldiers rejoicing
A soldier prays in front of the Kotel, June 11, 1967
Jews pray at the Kotel on June 17, 1967
From the collection of Dan Hadani, National Library of Israel
From the collecton of Dan Hadani, National Library of Israel
The display of unity spoke volumes about the shared values and commitment to the security and preservation and security of Israel’s existence. “This event takes on extreme importance because of the unity,” says Oliner. “Today we reflect on the unity of Jerusalem, joined by bipartisan representation as well as leadership of the entire Jewish community joining together to celebrate this historic milestone.” Oliner addressed the room recounting the miraculous events of 1967 as well as some of his personal family history. “A miracle occurred between May 15 and June 6; we were able to destroy the entire air force of Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Syria. It was a great miracle. General Rabin came together with General Dayan. We were able to have Menachem Begin come together with Levi Eshkol.” Oliner is the Chairman, CEO and President of First Lincoln Holdings, a bankruptcy attorney and the former mayor of the Village of Lawrence, New York. He is also the son of Holocaust survivors who was born in a DP camp. Oliner spoke of his parents and extended family, survivors whose faith in Judaism was reaffirmed and strengthened after witnessing the 1967 miracle. “My parents were hidden in Poland during World War II, while Jews all around them were being round up and sent to certain death. When 1967 came, they were understandably very fearful for the people of Israel. Mass graves were dug for Israelis as the Arab armies surrounding the Jewish State prepared for war. Winning the war against all odds certainly increased their faith.” Oliner recalls touring the city with his grandchildren recently and explaining how differently things looked before 1967. “Back then, if you were Jewish, you could not enter the Jordanian occu-
pied Old City. Now it is a haven for Jews, Christians, Muslims and those who are still trying to figure themselves out. We mark Jerusalem Day due to the miracles that made this situation that was only dreamed of before a reality.” Representatives at the Washington, D.C., event also took the opportunity to recount their personal memories and to share their religious connection to the Jewish state, its capital and its leadership. Rep. Thomas Suozzi (D-NY) spoke of his moving spiritual experience in Israel during
“I saw the little girls getting on the bus to go to school that morning. And I realized that these are the courageous people. The people who lived in Israel.”
the “Second Intifada” terror war in 2002, when Israeli buses were being blown up daily. At one point, he said, he sneaked out of his hotel and went to say Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. “And I was so proud of myself,” recalled Suozzi. “I said, ‘Oh, I’m so courageous, that I would do this without my armed guards.’ And I walked outside and I saw the little girls getting on the bus to go to school that morning. And I
realized that these are the courageous people. The people who lived in Israel... From that day forward I decided I would always do what I could to help the State of Israel.” House Minority Whip Congressman Steny Hoyer of Maryland said, “Let it be clear that there is only one option. A united Jerusalem. Who can deny the unique experience of ascending the Holy City? Thank you to all who defend Jerusalem and keep it open to members of all faiths.” A meaningful resolution supporting Jerusalem’s freedom to worship was also passed. The Resolution recognizes the 50th anniversary of the Reunification of Jerusalem. Furthermore, it recognizes that the reunification and subsequent protection afforded by the Holy Places Law is an affirmation of religious freedom. The Resolution encourages Congress to safeguard the American-Israeli alliance and advance the countries’ mutual interests. Finally, the Resolution recognizes the contributions of those who fought in the Six Day War, the outcome of which helped to enable the unity of Jerusalem and religious freedom for all. Oliner hopes for the monumental gathering to be a springboard for future progress. “By coming together to celebrate the unity of Jerusalem, these Jewish organizations are not only making a miracle, they are also perpetuating one.” A recurrent theme throughout the commemoration was the call to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem – and to seize the moment to do so now. Oliner is hopeful that President Trump will keep his pledge of moving the embassy and sees the move as very significant in many ways. “Jerusalem is the home of Israel’s government, Parliament and Supreme Court, and no country should be able to tell another country
51 83
52 84
OCTOBER 29,|2015 | The Jewish MAY 25, 2017 The Jewish HomeHome
Congressman Tom Suozzi
Rep. Jerry Nadler
where its capital should be.” Oliner believes the move will have an even greater effect. “Moving the embassy will make the world safer because it will tell the world that America will honor its commitments to its allies.” Oliner trusts that it will help clarify any ambiguity about America’s commitment to its long-standing ally Israel. “Leading up to President Trump’s visit to Is-
Congressman Lee Zeldin
rael, we are holding our heads up high and hope that Israel follows America and congress. We hope to give more strength to any waffling Israeli politicians that focus on other things – and there are many other things – but most important is to ensure the safety of Israel.” Oliner recalls how in 1967 Menachem Begin told Israelis that if they did not take action to take control over the Old City in the Six Day War,
future generations would not forgive them, and he believes that it is also true today. “Future generations will never forgive us if we lose one inch of Jerusalem,” he cautions. “For over 2,000 years we’ve been praying for this. For the last 50 years we’ve been able to go to the Kotel and the Old City. It’s an enormous gift from G-d. We have to keep it safe under all circumstances.”
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
85
86
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
87
42 88
OCTOBER 29,|2015 | The Jewish MAY 25, 2017 The Jewish HomeHome
A Red Carpet for President Trump in the Middle East By Susan Schwamm
L
eaving the white noise of political discord behind, President Trump embarked on his first overseas trip as president of the United States. The first stop of the nine-day trip was to Saudi Arabia where he met with the Saudi king and participated in a summit on Islamic extremism. On Monday morning, he flew from Saudi Arabia to Israel where he spent a whirlwind 28 hours in the Holy Land. On Wednesday, the president met with Pope Francis, who was a vocal critic of him during the presidential race. He also visited the Quirinal Palace in Rome, which is the official residence of President Sergio Mattarella of Italy, before departing to Brussels for a late afternoon meeting with King Philippe of Belgium. On Thursday, the president was scheduled to attend a NATO leaders’ meeting. The trip concludes with a two-day G7 conference in Sicily.
After traveling 6,700 miles overnight, President Trump and his entourage touched down in the capital city of Riyadh on Saturday morning to great pomp and fanfare. Despite the sweltering 101 degree heat, an elaborate red carpet ceremony took place on the tarmac where 81-yearold Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud personally greeted the president and his entourage. After a brass band played, cannons boomed, and jets flew overhead streaming red, white and blue contrails, the king joined the president in “the Beast” for a ride to the royal palace. The roads of Riyadh were adorned with American and Saudi flags as well as billboards featuring Mr. Trump’s face, welcoming him to Saudi Arabia. In the evening, Mr. Trump’s face was also projected onto the Ritz Carlton hotel where he was staying. Whereas the past five presidents made their maiden overseas voyage
to Canada or Mexico, making his first foreign trip to Saudi Arabia – which is a strong adversary of Iran – signals that President Trump understands the danger that Iran poses to the region and the world. Saudi Arabia, which was highly critical of Obama’s Iran nuclear deal, rolled out the red carpet –literally and figuratively – for Mr. Trump in a much more elaborate fashion than they did for then-President Obama’s visit in April 2016, at which time King Salman delegated the task of greeting the president to a distant nephew in a ceremony which was not broadcasted on Saudi TV. Between being awarded the Collar of Abdulaziz Al Saud Medal, which is Saudi Arabia’s highest honor, and capping off the evening by participating – awkwardly – in a Saudi sword dance, Mr. Trump and the Saudi king signed a $109 billion defense deal which will provide Sau-
di Arabia with a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, amongst other weapons. According to The New York Times, the pre-negotiated deal had “Jared Kushner’s personal touch.” One week before Mr. Trump’s trip, when Saudi and White House officials were huddled in Washington to try and make the numbers of the deal work, Jared reportedly picked up the phone and direct-dialed Lockheed Martin CEO Marillyn Hewson for a discussion on how bring the price down on the THAAD system. Ms. Hewson was present when President Trump and the Saudi king signed the deal on Saturday. Saudi Arabia also approved 23 foreign investment export licenses with U.S. companies, bringing the total amount of investments to $350 billion over 10 years. “That was a tremendous day. Tremendous investments in the United
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017 The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
A red carpet welcome in Saudi Arabia
States,” Trump told reporters. “Hundreds of billions of dollars of investments into the United States – and jobs, jobs, jobs.” President Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia featured more than just deal making, though. He also met with dozens of regional leaders and delivered a keynote address at a regional summit of 50 Muslim-majority countries focusing on combating extremism. In his address, Mr. Trump explained that the reason he made his first foreign trip to the heart of the Muslim world was in order to “deliver a message of friendship and hope and love.” While he defined the fight against terrorism as a “battle between good and evil,” not a fight between “different faiths, different sects, or different civilizations,” he declared that in order to defeat the “wicked ideology” of terrorism, Muslim nations must be willing to “deny all territory to the foot soldiers of evil.” He stated, “This region should not be a place from which refugees flee but to which newcomers flock.” Although on the campaign trail Mr. Trump often spoke of the dangers of radical Islamic terror, the prepared text of his highly-anticipated speech steered clear of biting rhetoric and took a softer tone. Rather than referring to “Islamic” terror, which many Muslims consider to be an affront to their religion as it implies that at its core Islam preaches terror, the prepared text spoke of “Islamist” terror, which refers to political movements that seek to implement Islamic law and theology. Although this may seem nuanced to Westerners, to Muslim leaders there is a great difference between
Holding a sword and swaying in Saudi Arabia
the words “Islamic” and “Islamist,” when paired with the word “terror.” Even so, when delivering the speech, Mr. Trump veered off text. “There is still much work to be done. That means honestly confronting the crisis of Islamic extremism and the Islamists and Islamic terror of all kinds,” he said. A senior White House official explained that President Trump mixed up the wording of his prepared remarks in Saudi Arabia because he was “exhausted.”
month, by President Trump’s invitation. During their sit-down at the sidelines of the Saudi summit, Mr. Trump accepted El-Sissi’s invitation to visit Egypt in the near future, although the precise date has not yet been determined. From Saudi Arabia, Airforce One flew directly to Israel, making history as the first direct flight between those two countries. Although Saudi Arabia and Israel do not have direct diplomatic relations, the threat that
“You know, in Israel all the people like us. The media hate us but the people love us, like you.”
Mr. Trump’s “nice shoes diplomacy” was also on full display when he was overheard saying to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sissi, who was in Saudi Arabia for the summit, “Love your shoes. Boy, those shoes… Man.” El-Sissi was equally effusive of Mr. Trump and noted that he has “a unique personality” that allowed him “to do the impossible.” Trump grinned and said, “I agree.” President Trump noted that America’s relationship with El-Sissi’s Egypt will be better now than it was in the Obama-era. El-Sisi, who was the head of the Egyptian armed forces in 2013 when he ousted Islamist President Mohamed Morsi of the radical Islamist group the Muslim Brotherhood, was shunned by Obama’s White House. He made his very first trip to the White House last
a nuclear Iran poses to the two countries is a reminder of the adage, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” In his welcoming remarks, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Mr. President, you just flew from Riyadh to Tel Aviv; I hope that someday an Israeli prime minister will be able to fly from Tel Aviv to Riyadh.” Upon descending the stairs of his plane at Ben Gurion Airport, Mr. Trump received a red carpet welcome during which he was greeted by President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Netanyahu and his entire cabinet. Prime Minister Netanyahu ordered all of his cabinet members to be present at the ceremony after the media reported that some planned on not attending. The ceremony featured an Israeli military band and military formations as well as brief remarks by President Trump, Presi-
89 43
A selfie with Bougie at the airport
dent Rivlin and Prime Minister Netanyahu. According to Israel’s Channel 10, the Ben Gurion Airport ceremony was spruced up once the Israelis saw just how elaborate Mr. Trump was greeted upon landing in Riyadh. The ceremony at Ben Gurion Airport certainly provided much fodder for the Israeli and international media after a number of subtle, notable events were caught on camera. First, there was the rebuff. While walking on the red carpet, Mr. Trump subtly reached for Melania’s hand and she – less subtly – swatted his hand away. Many in the press quickly declared this is as proof positive of discord in their marriage, while others simply took it as an indication that Melania was trying to show religious sensitivity. Then came the selfie. As Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Trump were greeting leaders and politicians on the VIP rope line, Knesset member Oren Hazan (Likud) whipped out a cellphone and took a selfie with President Trump. Prime Minister Netanyahu was seen trying to grab Hazan’s arm to prevent his antics. Hazan quickly posted the selfie on Facebook with the caption, “Thank you, Mr. President – it was my pleasure.” It was yet another sign that Israel has “progressed” from its early days when growling, open-shirted ministers would mumble in Hebrew at visiting heads of state while waiting for the first opportunity to “go out back for a smoke.” Then there was the Israeli brashness. Mr. Trump was certainly reminded that he is not the only politician that faces strong opposition when Knesset member Yitzchak “Bougie” Herzog (Labor), in the pres-
90 44
MAY 25, 2017 The Jewish HomeHome OCTOBER 29,|2015 | The Jewish
Saying a prayer at the Kotel
ence of Prime Minister Netanyahu, introduced himself to the president as “head of the opposition.” Finally, there was the hot-mic moment. As they stood chatting candidly on the tarmac, a mic picked up a discussion between the Trumps and Netanyahus during which Sara Netanyahu said, “You know, in Israel all the people like us. The media hate us but the people love us, like you.” Mr. Trump nodded and responded, “We have a lot in common,” before Sara promised to continue the discussion over dinner.
Trump and Netanyahu share a light moment at the airport
Once in Jerusalem, Mr. Trump and Melania visited President Rivlin’s home and had a private dinner at the prime minister’s residence. Those were standard events for visiting presidents. What wasn’t standard was Mr. Trump’s visit to the Kotel. Although Barack Obama visited the Kotel when he was a presidential candidate in 2008, Mr. Trump was the first sitting president to make such a visit. The Israelis had hoped that the symbolism of this visit
would be made even stronger by Prime Minister Netanyahu joining President Trump at the Kotel, but the Trump administration rebuffed that plan, as technically the U.S. considers the status of Jerusalem to be a subject for peace negotiations. Mr. Trump instead was escorted by Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, who is the official rabbi of the Kotel, and Rabbi Mordechai Elias, who heads the Western Wall Heritage Foundation. Trump, who wore a black yarmulke, was given a quick chat about the significance of the site by the rabbis. Before taking a moment alone to pray at the Wall, Rabbi Elias explained to him that at Western Wall all prayers ascend directly to heaven. Mr. Trump then slowly walked towards the Kotel, placed his right hand up on the Wall and slowly swayed in prayer for approximately 30 seconds. He then stuck a note in between the stones of the Wall. After Mr. Trump completed his prayers, his accompanying cabinet and staff, including Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, National Security Advisor H.R McMaster, Jared Kushner and chief economic advisor Gary Cohen, lined up at the Wall in prayer. Meanwhile, Melania and Ivanka prayed on the women’s side of the Kotel. Ivanka quickly gained international attention for appearing to wipe away a tear as she walked away from her private moment at the Wall. Shortly after the visit she tweeted, “I am grateful to have experienced a deeply meaningful visit to the holiest site of my faith and to leave a private note of prayer.” Mr. Trump also visited Yad Vashem, where he laid a wreath and called the Holocaust “the most savage crime against G-d.” He also gave a
keynote speech to Israeli dignitaries and lawmakers at the Israel Museum – giving a speech at the Knesset was ruled out due to fears of interruptions by rowdy Knesset members – during which he declared, “I stand in awe of the accomplishments of the Jewish people, and I make this promise to you: my administration will always stand with Israel.” Mr. Trump also paid a visit to Bethlehem where he met with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas. During a joint press conference Abbas paid lip-service to peace while declaring, “The problem isn’t between us and Judaism; it is between us and occupation.” Mr. Trump noted, though, that “peace can never take root in an environment where violence is tolerated, funded and even rewarded,” apparently referencing the Palestinian Authority’s financing of terrorists and their families. Although Mr. Trump declared that the Palestinians and Israel are both ready to reach for peace, his message was mostly rhetorical and he steered clear of the thorny issues such as the status of Jerusalem, settlements, the two-state solution, or moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, leading The Jerusalem Post to declare, “All pomp and no substance in Trump’s historic visit to Israel.” Others saw Mr. Trump’s trip as setting the stage for a soon-to-come substantive peace deal. How did Mr. Trump see his trip? He tweeted about it as his plane went belly-up from Ben Gurion Airport, “Israel, Saudi Arabia and the Middle East were great. Trying hard for PEACE. Doing well. Heading to Vatican & Pope, then #G7 and #NATO.” “PEACE” in all caps…now we know this is serious.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
91
Double Chai TribuTe
Dinner 36
Celebrating our annual dinner
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
h o n o r i n g
Mr. & Mrs. Yoni Kutner G u e s t s
o f
י"ט סיון תשע"ז
H o n o r
The sands aTlanTic Beach 1 3 9 5 B e e c h St r e e t AtlAntic BeAch nY 11509
Dr. & Mrs. Gavriel Fagin
RecepTion 6:45 dinneR 7:30
Pa r e n ts o f t H e Y e a r
Dinner Chairmen
Rabbi Yehudah Orlansky
YitzY halpern ephraim Kutner Journal Chairmen
alumnus of tHe Year
eli Kutner Yisroel Weingot
לז"נ אביו רפאל משה ע"ה בן הרב ישראל נ"י
siachyitzchok.org/dinner
th
F o R d i n n e R R e s e RvaT i o n s o R To p l a c e a n a d p l e a s e c o n Ta c T: emAil
dinner@siachyitzchok.org
Phone
718-327-6247
fAx
718-471-0925
92
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
54
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
93
To Serve and Protect PHOTO CREDIT-MOSHE DAPNA
>>>
>>>
Small Business Person of the Year Pamela Newman Talks about Security, Business, and Three Dollars from the Lubavitcher Rebbe BY SHOLOM NACHTMAN
I
t’s not every day that a small business owner from the Five Towns is feted at an honorary dinner in Washington, D.C., with Vice President Mike Pence. This is where Pamela Newman, founder and CEO of ISS Action, found herself back in early May of this year, when she was the New York State recipient of the National Small Business Person of the Year award. According to a 2016 profile, New York State has 2.1 million small businesses, accounting for 99% of New York businesses and employing 3.9 million people statewide. Standing out in a crowd of this size is no mean feat, but ISS Action, a security company headquartered in Queens, is no ordinary small business. Started in 1991 by Mrs. Newman and her husband Yehuda Daphna, ISS has grown from a few former IDF soldiers providing security at yeshiva dinners to a prestigious firm
fulfilling contracts for federal organizations and airports while employing hundreds of personnel across six states. In a conversation with The Jewish Home, Pamela shared some of her experiences from the world of security and illuminated some of the challenges of starting and growing a business.
S
ecurity was not Pamela Newman’s forte before 1991. She hails from North Woodmere and was educated at Barnard and Columbia, earning diplomas in marketing and accounting. During her pre-ISS career, she worked at Grey Advertising and Bank Leumi, industries far removed from the security field. After getting married in Israel in 1986, Pamela and Yehuda moved back to Long Island, where they struggled to get on their feet financially. These were difficult years, but
Pamela says they took hope from two brachos they received from the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1991. “We had not had children, and we approached the Rebbe to ask for a bracha. He gave us three dollars and nine months later we had triplets… He also gave my husband a bracha for parnassah and said that he would be lichapes (to search) for his parnassah. As it turned out, now that’s what we do: we search for a living.” The seed for ISS was planted in the early ‘90s when an act of violence occurred against the Jewish community of New York City. This incident, combined with Saddam Hussein’s military provocations and the subsequent conflict in the Persian Gulf, created an atmosphere of anxiety and an increased demand for security. Pamela and Yehuda realized that there would be a need for a security company that could serve the Jewish
community. As a 12-year veteran of the IDF who had seen combat in four separate wars and spent time in the Special Operations division, Yehuda had a background that made him a perfect fit for security work. Drawing on this military experience and the connections that came with it, Pamela and Yehuda formed ISS to meet the security demands of the day. “All the Jewish organizations that were having dinners in Manhattan were concerned about security, and they wanted metal detectors, bomb sweeps, and dogs to ascertain that the hotels were safe. This was the start of our security operations,” she recalls. As the threats faded, so did the desire for increased security. ISS found itself in a situation of fluctuating demand. Organizations wanted the company’s services when there were threats, but then calls would drop off
94
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
when the danger passed. Pamela and Yehuda knew that they needed to diversify their security services if they wanted to stay in business. A major opportunity arose in 1993, when the company made a connection with Robert Fishler, the former Assistant Area Director of U.S. Customs at JFK Airport. Fishler was looking for a security team to assist at the airport. ISS got the contract and made its inaugural entrance into the world of aviation security. Narcotics interdiction was the focus of ISS’s first contract. At the time, the War on Drugs was in full swing, having been a top priority for the Reagan and Bush administrations. Stopping drug smuggling on aircraft was an important element of this effort. In the pre-9/11, pre-TSA era, airlines relied on a far less formal security structure, which Pamela says led to the airlines needing the help of her company. “Today everything is supervised, from the people who clean the airplane, to the catering carts and liquor carts and duty-free. Everything and anybody who goes on the plane is inspected. When we first started, things were much less supervised, but the concern about drug smuggling was far greater. There were dollars flying between terrorists, drug cartels, and arms dealers, all of which the government wanted to crack down on.” To disrupt this toxic underworld stew of illegal material and dirty money, ISS was tapped to search the planes for drugs. Air Jamaica presented a serious challenge to ISS. The airline was one of the worst offenders went it came to drug smuggling. They were facing almost $2.1 million in fines and there was talk of the airline being permanently barred from JFK. Under the terms of the Supercarrier Initiative, a government program designed to combat drug smuggling in the transportation sector, fines would be reduced in exact proportion to money spent on security. This program motivated Air Jamaica to seek out the services of ISS. The drug smugglers who used Air Jamaica were brazenly creative in the ways they would use planes and airport staff to transport narcotics. Pamela talked about the surprising methods that ISS discovered in their initial surveillance of Air Jamaica. “We saw videos of life vests stuffed with heroin and packages of cocaine
55
during this time for their outstanding security work. With very little advertising, ISS began to gain a word-of-mouth reputation in the private sector of the security industry as an innovative and reliable firm on the rise.
I Pamela with SBA Administrator Linda McMahon, receiving her award
Yehuda Daphna in IDF fatigues
stored deep in the airplane’s hull… The old planes had overhead projectors, the housing cavity of which would be stuffed with packages of drugs. These planes were like gigantic flying drug mules. When the planes would land the cleaners or other airport staff would make a call and tell the others where the drugs were hidden.” She added, “It was very
eter where drugs could be hidden. Another major part of ISS’s strategy was using trustworthy operatives who could carry out the security protocols and not fall prey to corruption. ISS accomplished this by only hiring ex-Israeli military operatives, who they paid at far higher than average rates, in addition to awarding heavy bonuses to those who discovered
>>> “Getting through those times involved having a lot of bitachon in Hashem, a lot of hard work, and a real belief that nothing was impossible. We just always believed that we could do it.”
easy for them to get people involved who were making minimum wage as a baggage handler and would jump at the chance to make a thousand dollars just for making a phone call.” To combat these creative criminals, ISS also had to be inventive. They developed a security philosophy by drawing off Yehuda’s military acumen. During his years with the IDF, he had gained vast experience in securing perimeters of villages and towns, a strategy he transplanted to the world of aviation security. The plane was viewed as the perimeter, and the working assumption was that drugs were inside. ISS learned to comb every area of the plane, including the liquor carts, the paneling, and everything in between, searching for the weak points in the perim-
drugs. These financial incentives served as a counterbalance to the potential threat of bribery from the drug cartels. ISS soon began making waves in the world of aviation security. In 1994, they expanded their airport work to include Avianca, an airline operating out of Bogota, notorious as a hub of the South American cocaine trade. In 1995, ISS received a letter of commendation from U.S. Customs after they seized hundreds of kilos of cocaine and marijuana with an enormous street value. The company’s narcotics interdiction work, in addition to anti-pilferage programs, continued with Air Jamaica at JFK for eight years and with Avianca at JFK and Newark for five years, receiving commendations and awards
n the wake of the 9/11 terror attacks, airport security underwent a fundamental transformation. The focus shifted from narcotics to terrorism, and the formation of the Department of Homeland Security and the TSA meant that government would be doing far more airport surveillance than the private sector. Pamela and Yehuda realized that they would have to begin diversifying their business to stay competitive. For ISS, this meant pursuing government security contracts. Most government agencies rely on trustworthy private firms to provide security for their facilities. Landing a government contract is a major stepping stone in the growth of a security firm like ISS. To this end, ISS had begun competing for New York State contracts in 1995, while continuing their airport work and providing security for yeshivas. After years of competition, ISS landed the contracts for three armories in New York City: the Ronkonkoma armory, the Lexington Avenue armory, and the Park Avenue armory. This shift into governmental security created a demand for more employees, a demand that ISS met by expanding their pool to include any ex-military operatives, ex-law enforcement, and licensed security guards. In later years, ISS added the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building in Harlem and the Suffolk County DMV building in Hauppauge to their roster of contracts. In addition to government work, ISS continued to add new services to cater to the diverse needs of their clientele. This included bodyguard service and licensed private investigators. (While investigators are mostly used for private security or background checks, Pamela says that her operatives are sometimes hired to look into people for shidduchim!) ISS also became a licensed weapons and ammunition dealer, the first private company to be awarded that status in New York City in the last 20 years. As the company expanded, the magnitude of their contracts increased exponentially. City and state contracts led to federal contracts,
56
OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
and ISS began working with NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, and other federal locations across several states. A recent triumph for the company occurred in January of 2016, when ISS was awarded the contract for the Punta Gorda Airport. In 2005, Congress voted that 22 airports across the country should have private security. Among these is Punta Gorda, a public airport in Charlotte County, Florida. Winning an airport contract is a key achievement for a security firm, as it means that the company has passed all levels of clearance and is trusted to do the same work as the government. For Pamela and Yehuda, winning this contract was a major milestone in the development of ISS.
S
o how does a company that started out with a few metal detectors in a Manhattan hotel lobby wind up providing security for airports and major federal buildings? Pamela says the road to success was paved with faith, innovation, and persistence in the face of adversity. “There were many difficult times…times where we had to take heroic measures to do our job and keep the business going. We had to deal with contracts falling apart, people being dishonest; I would say getting through those times involved having a lot of bitachon in Hashem, a lot of hard work, and a real belief that nothing was impossible. We just always believed that we could do it.” In addition to this positive attitude, Pamela also attributes the company’s success to Yehuda’s hard work and creativity. She describes him as a tireless worker and a dynamic innovator whose comprehensive knowledge of the security world keeps the company fresh and always evolving. A notable example of ISS’s creative approach is one of their latest endeavors, a long-gestating and groundbreaking concept with the unlikely name of The Gun Spa. Much as its name would suggest, The Gun Spa will consist of a cutting-edge shooting range where ISS can train its employees and a spa where people can relax after a strenuous afternoon of firing Uzis. Located in Nassau County, The Gun Spa will also be open to the public, giving unlicensed New Yorkers a unique
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
opportunity to experience shooting in a safe and modernized environment. As an enthusiastic advocate of responsible gun ownership, Pamela hopes The Gun Spa will allow people to gain valuable firearm experience. The Gun Spa will also sell products designed specifically for women, a market not currently catered to by the firearms industry, even though women make up a major percentage of first-time gun buyers. The idea of a spa/shooting range mash-up is certainly an inventive one, and Pamela
ous attitude.” ISS helps by providing complimentary security to different organizations and events in the community. However, Pamela says that there is only so much that her company can do and that there are many areas that need improvement. Security by yeshivas is often less than professional and easy to circumvent. Many shuls do not have the protective ballast that can be used to prevent ISIS-style car ramming attacks. The unarmed guards employed by many institutions are not
>>> “It doesn’t matter how much help you have, and how much money you have, it won’t make a difference because when you are a mother and a businesswoman you are constantly torn.”
says that this project is an example of how ISS uses creativity to stays ahead of the game. “That’s how we do things. We always are strategizing about how we can diversify and what new directions to go in with our new initiatives.” Running a security company has given Pamela an insider’s perspective on the threats facing the modern world. She reflects that our community does not always put an adequate focus on security. “Given today’s environment, everyone should want top-notch security. Unfortunately, it’s one of those budget items that people often don’t want to pay for. The community is much more reactive than proactive when it comes to threats, which can be a very danger-
an effective deterrent to potential attackers. Pamela suggests a few simple measures that can address these issues. “We should have designated people with weapons and training at high risk areas… Homeland Security has grants, which our company has helped write for many organizations, that provide every shul, yeshiva, and public institution with vital security tools like protective ballasts and lockdown systems.” She points out, “These are simple steps that can be taken to upgrade our current security measures, which are often ineffective and a waste of resources.”
D
uring her tenure as CEO of ISS, Pamela has also held down another demanding
95
position: being a mother to her four children. She jokes that she does so much juggling she could be in the circus, but notes that managing these two roles is a daunting challenge faced by all working mothers. “During my trip to Washington, I met Ivanka Trump, and she was asked about asked how she balances her job and being a mother…. What that made me think was that it doesn’t matter how much help you have, and how much money you have, it won’t make a difference because when you are a mother and a businesswoman you are constantly torn. When you’re working, you think you should be home, and when you’re home you think you should be working. It takes a lot of effort and good judgment to be able to develop successfully.” During the early years of the business, Yehuda ran the actual security operations while she worked from home, managing the legal and banking end of the business. In 2006, when all her children were in school, she segued to working fulltime as the CEO, which coincided with the first of ISS’s major government contracts. Pamela credits Yehuda with making it possible for her to manage both roles, saying that his help at home was as crucial as his contributions to the business. As a team, they could face the challenges of raising their family while also growing their company.
P
amela came to the attention of the Small Business Administration after an ISS employee nominated her for the Small Business Person of the Year award. After five prior nominations in other years, Pamela was selected for this prestigious award in 2017. There was a gala ceremony at the Institute of Peace, during which the awards were presented and Vice President Mike Pence addressed the crowd. Pamela says that receiving the award was an elating and unbelievable experience, but added that the award doesn’t really belong to her. “The win is really for my whole company. It’s not just me, it’s everybody involved in the work that we do.” For ISS Action, and the determined couple who created the company from scratch, this was a well-earned award for decades of protecting our community and nation.
96 46
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home OctOber 29, 2015 | the Jewish Home
Dating Dialogue
What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LcSW of the Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
Our son Josh recently got engaged. During his dating phase, we only met his kallah twice and really didn’t get a great sense of the whole situation. But since they’ve become engaged, he has had her over for various meals and we’ve had a great opportunity to observe the two of them together and get to know Chanie. Frankly, Chanie is amazing and since this question is anonymous, I can honestly say that my husband and I were actually surprised that Josh was able to “catch” someone so special. We love our son dearly but we’ve always been very honest about our children. Josh has not been easy to raise. He tends to be a little slippery, will say whatever he needs to say to get what he wants. And he can be annoying. I can go on, but let’s just say, he’s still a work in progress. And my husband and I have always been honest with each other about him and all our children. Yes, Josh has some wonderful qualities. He’s charming and is very generous in many ways. He has other great qualities as well. But from what we see of Chanie, we’re just surprised that she would choose someone like Josh. OK, so here’s the question or situation. When we watch Josh interacting with Chanie, it’s like we’re watching an actor playing the role of the perfect chosson. Frankly, we don’t recognize him at all! His voice even sounds different. It’s like he has created this persona to attract Chanie and this persona is very different from the Josh that we’ve known all of his life. Of course we understand that everyone puts on their best face when they are dating and even when they are engaged, but their best face should probably resemble their real face to some extent. The Josh we see interacting with Chanie seems like a fraud to us. And, of course, once Chanie leaves, the old Josh is back. We’re concerned that once they are married, Josh will drop the pretenses and Chanie will be exposed to a man she never really knew before and will be horrified and run for the hills! There is so much divorce among young couples and our concern is that Chanie doesn’t really know what she is getting herself into and once she does their marriage will be added to the statistics, G-d forbid. What should we do as loving, concerned parents? We’ve tried gently saying something to Josh about how surprisingly different he behaves around Chanie and he basically reacts as though we were delusional. Do we warn Chanie or her parents? I know most parents put their children first, even when they don’t deserve to be put first. My husband and I see things for what they are and try to be real. So what are your thoughts regarding our concerns?
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
97
98
the Jewish Home | OctOber 29, 2015
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
47
The Panel the rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S. hile I recognize your and your husband’s honesty and concern about this shidduch, I wonder if you have asked yourselves the following questions: Is Chanie on her best behavior around the future in-laws? Isn’t that normal human behavior around people who matter long term? What is it about Chanie that makes her amazing? The question you raise – do we warn Chanie and her parents? – is very telling. Your role is not to protect Chanie and her family from your son. Your role is to be good parents to your son. But your feelings are intruding very significantly and you seem very biased. I don’t know what the background is here but from what you say, I wonder about your relationship with your son. Get some help. Soon. The problem is with you, not with the kids.
W
the Mother Sarah Schwartz Schreiber, P.A.
T
here is a story attributed to the saintly R’ Avigdor Miller, zt”l. Seems one of his talmidim approached him with the following quandary: “Now that I am in shidduchim, I find that I am on my best behavior while out on dates. My clothing are pressed and stainfree. My table manners are perfect. I am attentive and polite to the girl I am dating. In short, I feel like an actor, perhaps, an imposter.” Rabbi Miller replied, “Sure, you may be acting; I urge you to keep up the act for the next 120 years!” From your description, your son made a wonderful choice in Chanie. Not only does she have “aleh mailos” (all the wonderful attributes), but she brings out the best in Josh.
She may emanate a certain maturity and refinement that causes him to respond in an equally refined and dignified manner. Maybe, in the context of home, Josh reverts to his “arrested development” role. But with Chanie, something magical happens: she may afford him the respect and confidence that make him want to be a more attentive, giving partner. I would not sabotage the shidduch by enlightening Chanie. Your son is not a fraud; he may be, as you say, a “work in progress.” Sometimes it takes a loving, caring, believing wife – like Chanie – to complete the task.
Another Shadchan Tzipporah Feldman
F
rom your question, it seems as though Josh and Chanie appear very happy together. Not only happy, but regarding Josh’s behavior, it sounds as though he is in a great place when he is with Chanie. That certainly is great news. Additional great news is the fact that Josh had the wisdom and wherewithal to select someone that you and your husband both agree is fabulous! So far, so good. Regarding your question, you should definitely not do or say anything to sabotage this shidduch. That would be an awful thing to do. I suppose it’s refreshing to hear from parents who don’t believe their children walk on water, but you and your husband seem to take your criticism of Josh to the opposite extreme, which makes me wonder whether you, your husband and Josh would benefit from some family therapy. Seems like there is tension between the three of you and wouldn’t it be a great idea to figure out where it’s coming from? Before Josh moves out and it’s too late – this might be your last opportunity
to resolve old wounds. The greater your relationship is with Josh, the better his relationship will ultimately be with his wife. I suggest you use this time to “kvell” a bit. Be proud of what Josh has achieved and believe in him. Apparently, he’s got a lot more going for him than you ever realized!”
“Sure, you may be acting; I urge you to keep up the act for the next 120 years!”
the Single Tova Wein
Q
uite simply, Chanie’s “wonderfulness” brings out something wonderful in Josh. Clearly she has just what Josh was looking
for, which provides him a safe environment in which to be his best
48
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
OctOber 29, 2015 | the Jewish Home
self. A great marriage is all about each spouse bringing out the very best in one another. (Of course, on the flip side, in a bad marriage, each person brings out the very worst in each other.) Though Josh is your son, not unlike a bad marriage, you and your husband seem to push his buttons
and get back behaviors that don’t sit well with either of you. You clearly have issues with him and I’m guessing he may have issues with you. That doesn’t mean that the Josh you observe with Chanie isn’t, in fact, more of his authentic self than the one you’ve come to expect. I think you and your husband
would benefit from an attitude readjustment. Count your blessing that Josh brought home someone you are all so impressed with. Maybe it’s time to give Josh a lot more credit than you’ve given him thus far, and rather than be so suspicious and negative, get on board the happiness train and count your blessings!
99
Will Chanie wake up a month into her marriage, after Josh has revealed his true colors, wondering who this man is and why no one warned her?
Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
M
a z e l tov on Josh’s engagement. I am having a different gut reaction to your e-mail that the panelists. I guess my frame of reference has taught me (unfortunately) that sometimes old habits die hard. And when I work with people who have walked down the aisle to life on the other side of the chuppah, they look back and wonder, “Why did I ignore the signs?” I don’t think your concerns are outlandish in the least bit. You feel as though your son is faking or trying to pull the wool over Chanie and that is disconcerting. Will Chanie wake up a month into her marriage, after Josh has revealed his true colors, wondering who this man is and why no one warned her? If so, what role should you have played when you had the chance? I see a few core areas in your situation that ought to be examined. • Is it possible that your perception of Josh is inaccurate? Is it possible that unintentionally you and/or your husband bring out these behaviors in Josh? I don’t mean to
offend you, but we do have to explore all the potential dynamics at play. • Growing up, and more recently, what is the feedback you receive(d) about Josh from school, friends, neighborhood adults, etc.? Is his “slippery” behavior and whatever would potentially make Chanie “run for the hills” limited to the home or is he displaying these unsavory behaviors around town? If Josh’s behavior is limited to the home, then as other panelists pointed out, this may be a “family issue” and not an exclusive “Josh issue.” Sometimes certain relationship interactions bring out the worst qualities in a person. • Even if this is a “Josh issue,” what role can you play as his parents watching him grow up and make his own life decisions such as an engagement? Without having a better understanding of your situation (family dynamics, interactions, Josh’s past
and current behaviors), I am uncomfortable giving you any opinion. I like that you tried having a conversation with him. You can try again. If it doesn’t go anywhere or turns south, then you and your husband can invite Josh to a session with a therapist in which you will discuss your concerns. You will give over a fuller, more complete picture to the therapist who will be better equipped to guide you. It may go smoothly, and it may not. Josh may walk out of the session, or he may not agree to this. If that is the case, you and your husband will continue working with the therapist on a plan of action. Your therapist will help you process the following: If we warn Chanie or her parents (if this is actually warranted…and you will figure that out in therapy) we risk losing our son. I have seen parents with concerns like yours say, “We support our child, and will be there for him if the marriage fails.” I have also seen parents say, “We are not paying for a wedding. If he wants this to happen, he will figure out how to pay for it on his own. We will be emotionally supportive but not financially supportive.” (That will be a loud message
to Chanie that you do not support the marriage. If she ignores this, or her parents ignore this, then she and they may have some issues too.) My hope is that Chanie does bring out the best in Josh and that Josh will only continue to develop and mature once he is out of your home. This does happen and that may be the lesson you walk away with from therapy! However, we can’t ignore the reality (as you see it), that there is a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde situation going on. Seek professional help right away to help give you some context, a reality check (if need be), and a game plan. Good luck! Sincerely, Jennifer 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.
100
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dr. Deb
When Bad is Good By Deb Hirschhorn, Ph.D.
N
ear a road over the Green Line in Jerusalem called “the seam” because it divides a Jewish neighborhood on one side from one that doesn’t like us on the other is a therapy clinic called The Place. My friend from Far Rockaway, who’d made Aliyah almost two years ago, urged me to take a look at it during my visit. Ob-
viously, she had an ulterior motive: She hoped I would be interested and then motivated to follow in her Aliyah footsteps. Well, my curiosity was piqued so we went together. The building was a regular apartment building and there were no signs indicating a therapy clinic inside. I understood this: It was to provide privacy
PRE-SHAVUOS WORLDWIDE
WOMEN’S
Treasuring our Femininity
by
Rebbetzin Tehilla Abramov
Founder of Jewish Marriage Education (JME), Author of The Secret of Jewish Femininity, Two Halves of a Whole, Straight from the Heart, Our Family, Our Strength and The Unique Princess
by
Mrs. Orit Esther Riter
Author & Speaker of the Daily Dose of Emuna Teaching Emotional Wellness through Torah Wisdom
Sunday May 28, 9PM EST 527-2922, 527-3114,
LIVE (319) 527-3131, 527-3383, 527-3226 Israel +972-76-599-0026* England +44-330-606-0527*
Corporate Sponsors
Australia +61-38672-0185* Belgium+32-9324-2917*
*access # 915233
PLAYBACK (712) 770-5097 Access # 915233 ShavuosTeleconference@Gmail
SariWeberDesign@gmail
TELECONFERENCE
to its patrons. Upstairs, we found The Place and went in. Was I blown away when I read the roster of therapist names on the door. There was a therapist I’d known 30 years ago in Florida. Not only that, her husband and mine had been friends. I will never forget her because of the amazing story her father told at her son’s bar mitzvah many years ago. (This story is true.) If I’ve mentioned it before, it’s worth telling again. Her father was Russian and when World War II broke out, he left his family behind and fled to the forest, afraid he would be conscripted to fight in the war. The fighting wasn’t the problem; the problem was how would he keep kosher? So he hid in the forest. Then the worst possible thing happened – or so he thought. He was caught and sent to Siberia to serve the duration of the war. Eventually, he was released. He made his way back home, only to discover no home. Strangers occupied his house and his family was . . . gone. He searched and learned what he didn’t want to learn: They were all killed. He lost a family just like that. He had thought Siberia was the worst thing that could happen to him but it wasn’t – it saved his life. With a heavy heart, he made his way alone to the United States. People encouraged him to remarry, and he decided this must be what Hashem wants, so he sought out a new wife. Indeed, he did create a beautiful new family to which my therapist-colleague belonged. And there we all were, safe in America, as-
sembled to celebrate a bar mitzvah, a bar mitzvah that could not have happened had this man not been sent to Siberia and lost his family. Now, decades later, that boy has a family of his own; his mother has helped countless clients; and there are other children and grandchildren, each contributing something to klal Yisroel. Here’s another story. Gertie was a protected and sheltered person. (This story, as is the case with all my stories, unless otherwise stated, is made up.) She grew up in a home of Holocaust survivors who were the quintessential helicopter parents, not letting her make any decisions for herself for fear that the wrong decision would land her in trouble. They married her off at an early age to someone who would clearly be a good provider, a doctor with a successful practice. That assumption was correct. He was a good provider; Gertie could continue being protected and cared for. But is that who Gertie was supposed to be? Don’t we each have some tafkid (role, function) that we are here to accomplish? Sometimes we are stuck, through no fault of our own, in a place where we can’t use the innate tools we have to perform that tafkid and it’s kind of like we have to crack the walnut shell to get at those precious tools. Gertie’s husband, Josh, was a hard worker. And because of it, he expected her to toe the line with regard to how he wanted things. She was trained to do just that, wasn’t she? After all, she never had to think growing up, so this just ex-
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
101
102
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
tended her childhood. If you asked her if she was happy, she would say, “I suppose so.” She never knew what a real team effort between a husband and wife would feel like. For his part, although Josh enjoyed being the great provider he was, he started to feel very uncomfortable with Gertie. Why couldn’t she contribute to the family? I mean, she did cook and she did oversee homework. But something was bothering him that he could not put his finger on. He tried. He took her briefly to counseling. Because he took no responsibility for being a dictator and Gertie took no responsibility for not standing up to her husband and asserting herself, counseling did not work. He was very unhappy. Finally, he sent her divorce papers. Needless to say, Gertie was shocked and saddened. Her parents were really angry, as you can imagine. But by this point, they were very advanced in years and she didn’t have the heart to go run-
ning to them for help. What was she to do? The answer, of course, was to find the strength within herself to create a way to sustain herself, both emotionally and financially. It was
head high. And, ironically, she made more money than her husband had been making so long ago. The manner in which she made these discoveries about her innate gifts was all very sad, but she became poignantly
Years later, she felt differently about herself. She knew she was somebody on her own. .
not easy, but Gertie did know one thing: she loved to sew. She started a little clothing line out of her apartment. It grew and grew. She had to take many deep breaths over the ensuing years; she had to remind herself many times chazak, chazak, v’nischazak. Years later, she felt differently about herself. She knew she was somebody on her own. She held her
aware that at this point she fulfilled her tafkid, her purpose. You might say: What’s the big deal about a clothing line? Does that help the universe? That is a good question. But it’s not about the clothing line. It’s about who Gertie is, or who she has become. Looking at herself in the mirror these days she can smile and say, “Hashem released me from a
stifling marriage in which I was not a fully functioning person.” Like my friend’s father who was let out of Siberia and started over, Gertie’s divorce gave her a chance to really live, to be. I would have opposed the idea of a divorce; all of this personal growth could have been accomplished within the marriage. It would have benefited Josh as well. But I wasn’t asked. Hashem arranged for Gertie an opportunity for growth coming out of a “bad” situation – and she took it. My hope is that people who need it will take advantage of my course, advertised on these pages, to create good out of bad. (The technical problem has now been fixed.)
Dr. Deb Hirschhorn is a Marriage and Family Therapist. She can be reached at 646-54-DRDEB or by writing drdeb@ drdeb.com.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
103
104
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Health & F tness
Why Cheesecake is Eaten on Shavuos By Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN
W
hen thinking back to our yesteryears, we all hear Mom’s stern voice calling, “Drink your milk!” The main reason your mom forced milk down your throat was to make sure you got adequate calcium. A cup of milk contains roughly 300mg of calcium, approximately a third of the daily recommended amount. Calcium needs range from 1000-1300mg daily, depending on life stage and gender. Why does the body needs so much calcium? Calcium is a vital mineral in our body. It’s an essential part of bones and teeth. The heart, nerves, and blood-clotting systems also need calcium to work. Sometimes you might see little white spots on your fingernails, indicating that you are low in calcium. Basically, calcium is extremely important for the body to function and grow properly. So important, that, without adequate calcium in the bloodstream, the body pulls it from other places, such as bones which can cause loss of balance and other health issues. As mentioned above, calcium is the most abundant mineral and one of the most important ones in the human body. Calcium has many, various functions that have vast benefits. Calcium is well-known for its key role in building bones and teeth as well as maintaining bone mass. It is essential in babies,
children, adolescents, adulthood, and in the elderly. Calcium is important at every stage of life but even more important for growing children. Calcium is absorbed from infancy up to the age of 20. This will determine the balance of calcium in the body for the rest of our lives. Additionally, since calcium is vital for building strong bones and teeth, and because children are constantly growing new bone mass all the time, they need a steady supply of calcium to support healthy growth. Bones are the framework for our bodies. Bones are constantly changing – with old bits falling off and being replaced by new bone. During childhood is when most of our bones are being built and made stronger, thus increasing bone mass. During adolescence, at around ages 18-20, is peak bone mass. At that point, bones have reached their maximum strength and density. After peak bone mass, it is more likely that bits of bone will break off with minimal replacement. Weak bones can eventually become brittle leading to osteoporosis. Adequate calcium intake is vital in adolescents to build strong bone mass and help prevent osteoporosis later in life. This is all something we hear our whole lives: “Eat enough calcium when you’re young, so your bones won’t break when you’re old.” How does insufficient calcium intake
actually lead to osteoporosis? If there is not enough calcium intake to maintain sufficient amounts of calcium in the blood, the brain sends a message to the parathyroid glands. The parathyroid glands will be activated to secrete more parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH will then pull calcium out of the bones to supply more calcium to the bloodstream. Yes, calcium actually gets pulled out of the bones! This causes a loss of bone substance which eventually can lead to osteoporosis. Calcium is also essential for cardiac function by regulating heart and muscle contraction and nerve conduction. Thus, not enough calcium can also cause heart and muscle issues. Another benefit of calcium is its role in controlling high levels of magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium in the blood. Doctors use calcium supplementation to help control these levels. There’s also good evidence that calcium can help prevent or control high blood pressure. The proteins that are found in low-fat dairy, caseins and whey, have similar effects to blood pressure lowering medications. More benefits of calcium include reducing PMS symptoms and aiding in weight loss. Research has also shown that calcium plays a role in preventing certain cancers. For example, calcium with vitamin
D may help protect against breast cancer in premenopausal women. That being said, calcium is vital for all ages, especially growing children and adolescents. What’s the main source of calcium? Dairy! Here’s your excuse to put the diet on hold and indulge in cheesecake and all other delicious delicacies on Shavuos! Rather than focusing on all the sugar, and saturated fat, taste the calcium. Make those bones stronger! For all those who are loyal to your diets, don’t worry, there are other sources of calcium too, such as oatmeal, sardines, tofu, soybeans, yogurt, orange juice, spinach, broccoli, and kale. But once a year, live it up, and have a bite of cheesecake too! And don’t forget to drink your milk! Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN, is a Master’s level Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist. She graduated CUNY Brooklyn College receiving a Bachelor’s in Science and Master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences. Her Dietetic Internship was completed under Brooklyn College primarily in Ditmas Park Care Center and Boro Park Center where she developed clinical and education skills to treat patients with comprehensive nutrition care. She is currently a dietitian at Boro Park Center and a private nutrition consultant. She can be reached at CindyWeinberger1@gmail.com.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO THE SUIT CENTRAL
456 Central Ave., Cedarhurst, NY 11516 | (516) 791-1925 Store hrs: Sun: 11-6, Mon-Thurs: 11-7, Fri: 10:30-2:30
105
106
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Madraigos
Parenting Teenagers By Eli Perlman, LCSW, Clinical Director of Madraigos
S
ince the beginning of time, parenting teenagers has been one of the greatest struggles. Parents depicted in the Torah were much holier and more developed than parents in our generation. What we have in common with them is that parenting was and is a tremendous challenge for us all. I recently read a quote in which a father reflected on his challenges with parenting. He said, “Before I got married I had six theories about bringing up children, now I have six children and no theories.” The enigma of parenthood is that it traps mature adults in a web of frustration and blinds them to lose their direction. This challenge is intensified when parenting teenagers because they are old enough to make decisions and tend to opt out of choosing the “right” option. Shavuos is the yahrzeit of King David who was a king of the Jewish people, author of Psalms and the forefather of the Moshiach, who is coming soon. King David was also a father of perhaps the most difficult child in Jewish history, Avshalom. The Prophet paints a scene of Avshalom, the third son of David, on a horse chasing his father with the
sole mission of killing him. As Avshalom galloped on a horse, his long hair got tangled in a hanging branch of a tree. While he was suspended from the ground hanging by his hair, an arrow was shot through his heart and his soul returned to its Creator. When King David heard of Avshalom’s death, he covered his face with his hands and he was broken. He cried out bitterly, “My son Avshalom, Avshalom my son, my son.” How can we understand such a profoundly compassionate response from a father who moments before was being chased by a son who was trying to kill him? To understand where King David may have been coming from, let’s look at a seemingly peculiar law regarding the rebellious son. The Talmud in Sanhedrin says that if the parents of a rebellious son forgive their son, the son is not put to death. We know that the rebellious son is judged for future criminal activity which we project he will commit. If he is judged based on future actions, why does the son not get the death sentence if his parents forgive him? Rabbi Shmuel Borenstien, known as The Shem Mishmuel, explains
that all Jews are children of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and are essentially holy souls and good. Occasionally, Jews get tangled in sins and need to reconnect to Hashem. The mechanism which allows for teshuva to work is via connecting to the holy chain linking us all the way up to our forefathers. When we are a linked to this chain, we receive from the root of the Jewish people the ability to do teshuva, re-connecting to Hashem. A rebellious son can only be judged for the future when his connection to his parents is severed and he no longer is linked to the holy chain. Without this connection to his root, the rebellious son will certainly not repent and will surely continue his inappropriate behaviors. However, when the parents find strength to forgive him, the rebellious son remains a link in the holy chain and he can do teshuva. With this restored potential to do teshuva, there is no longer a need to assume the rebellious son will continue his negative behaviors. Think of the irony. Who is the one acting out? The rebellious son. Who is the one who is supposed to get killed? The rebellious son. And yet, the Shem Mishmuel tells us that the
rebellious son’s potential of return is dependent on the parents’ ability to forgive their son! The International Journal of Applied Psychology, 2014, cites a study speaking directly to the topic of parents forgiving and accepting their children. The study is entitled, “Parental Acceptance and Its Relationship to Stress Tolerance and Problem Solving Among Their Teenage Children” (George, Sananda, Rajan 2014). The study was conducted with 650 teenagers studying in different schools and colleges in India. The object was to find out if there was a correlation between a teenager’s stress tolerance and problem solving capabilities to the level of acceptance shown to them by their parents. The results showed that there indeed exists a significant relationship between parental acceptance and a teenager’s stress tolerance and problem solving capabilities. In other words, the study clearly showed that parents accepting and forgiving their children is essential for improvement of negative traits and development of positive qualities in teenagers. There are many things for which parents have difficulty forgiving their
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Introducing
E V I T C EFFE GROUP
ng adults u o y & s t n e c f adoles For parents o
Sharpen parenting skills and acquire guidance from professionals Receive input and enjoy support from parents in your situation When: Mondays from 8:00-9:30pm Where: Madraigos 936 Broadway, Woodmere Start date: Monday June 12th For more information or to RSVP, please contact Eli Perlman, LCSW, Clinical Director of Madraigos eperlman@madraigos.org | 516-371-3250 ext. 111 936 Broadway, Woodmere, New York 11598 | P: 516.371.3250 F: 516.612.4515 | www.madraigos.org
107
108
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
children. We have difficulty forgiving our children for not having refined character. We have difficulty forgiving our children for getting involved with an undesirable group of friends. We have difficulty forgiving our children for not fulfilling the dreams we have for them. We have difficulty forgiving our children for getting involved in alcohol and drugs. And perhaps, most of all, parents have difficulty forgiving their children because we struggle with forgiving ourselves for behaviors of our children. A challenging teenager often behaves in ways that are wrong. Parents should never rationalize these wrong behaviors and explain these actions to be correct. King David knew his son Avshalom was wrong, but he forgave him anyway. We need a similar perspective of forgiving our children – despite their wrongdoings. This week, I was sitting by my desk at Madraigos and speaking to a mother about her struggling teenaged girl. Her daughter has been in a program for the past few months and
is making substantial progress. The distressed mother said, “My daughter has been improving her behavior at the program, and that makes me
pect of the sin of the calf happening immediately before we received the Torah. However, a renewed sweetness emerges at the end of the story.
Parents have difficulty forgiving their children because we struggle with forgiving ourselves for behaviors of our children. happy. What I am working on now is figuring out how to accept my daughter not being religious.” This caring mother intuitively understood that accepting and forgiving her daughter is the foundation for her relationship with her daughter. This mother also had the wisdom to know that accepting and forgiving a child is easier if she reaches out for assistance and support. Shavuos has the bittersweet as-
Hashem says one word which until this day models the attitude all parents with teenagers should strive to emulate. Hashem says, “Salachti, I forgive my children, the Jewish nation.” As we receive the Torah, we should remember that as parents we need to say to our children “Salachti, we forgive you.” Our community is fortunate to have parenting groups which teach parenting skills and provide support
for parents of teenagers. Madraigos offers these parenting groups free of charge. The groups are led by Rivki Rosenwald and Rena Kutner, who are both mothers of teenagers and trained in Marriage and Family Therapy. Madraigos believes effective parenting skills enhance quality of life, improve behavior of teenagers, and foster great relationships between parents and children. To learn more about these parenting groups, contact Eli Perlman by phone, 516-371-3250 ext. 111 or by email, eperlman@madraigos.org.
Madraigos, a 501c-3 not-for-profit organization, offers a wide array of innovative services and programs geared towards helping teens and young adults overcome life’s everyday challenges one step at a time. Our goal is to provide all of our members with the necessary tools and skills to empower them to live a healthy lifestyle and become the leaders of tomorrow.
• Focus on the complete person • Seminary Credits accepted in major • Stimulating and challenging courses universities that speak to the heart and mind • Extracurricular Programs under direction • Warm atmosphere with expert of Mrs. Yocheved Shonek mechanchim and mechanchos
In Memory of
Mrs. Rose Edelman
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Men and women are encouraged to attend!
Please join us for the
ANNUAL BREAKFAST to benefit
SUNDAY JUNE 11TH • 9:30 AM at the home of
Nosson and Miri Ginsbury 7 Muriel Avenue / Lawrence, NY Featured Speaker: Rabbi Yaakov Feitman
Rabbi Yaakov Feitman is the Rav of Kehillas Bais Yehudah Tzvi in Cedarhurst
Shlit’a
COMMITTEE Under the leadership of Rabbi Dov Silver Shlit’a
Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Davidson
Mr. & Mrs. Yanky Neuhoff
Mr. & Mrs. Uri Dreifuss
Mr. & Mrs. Menashe Oratz
Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Eisenberger
Mr. & Mrs. Aroni Parnes
Mr. & Mrs. Yochanan Frisch
Mr. & Mrs. Sholom Parnes
Mr. & Mrs. Gadi Fuchs
Mr. & Mrs. Dov Perkal
Mr. & Mrs. Laurence Garber Mr. & Mrs. Simcha Goldberg Mr. & Mrs. Avi Goldstein Mr. & Mrs. Michoel Greenfield Dr. & Mrs. Ernie Isaacson Mr. & Mrs. Motty Jacobowitz Mr. & Mrs. Jack Jeter Mr. & Mrs. David Klein Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Klein Mr. & Mrs. Motty Klein Mr. & Mrs. Ephraim Kutner Mr. & Mrs.Yoni Kutner Dr. & Mrs. Moishe Lazar Dr. & Mrs. Steve Levine
MANY FACES
THE
OF MADRAIGOS
Mr. & Mrs. Tzvi Perl Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Perl Mr. & Mrs. Avi Popack Mr. & Mrs. Shlomo Reich Mr. & Mrs. Shimshi Rosenberg Mr. & Mrs. A.J. Sabo Mr. & Mrs. Robbie Satran Mr. & Mrs. Mordechai Schwartz Mr. & Mrs. Ushi Shafran Mr. & Mrs. Naftali Solomon Mr. & Mrs. Aron Solomon Mr. & Mrs. Yaakov Spinner Mr. & Mrs. Nassan Treitel
Mr. & Mrs. Menachem Lieber
Mr. & Mrs. David Vegh
Mr. & Mrs. Allan Lieberman
Mr. & Mrs. Shalom Vegh
Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Majeski
Mr. & Mrs. Sruli Weinstein
Mr. & Mrs. Eli Moskowitz
Mr. & Mrs. Dovi Wisnicki
Mr. & Mrs. Yanky Muller
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Zuckerman
CLINICAL SERVICES 24 Hour Support Line • Assessments/Referrals • Case Management • Crisis Intervention • Support Groups COMMUNITY RESOURCES Community Education • Educational Enhancement Program • Job Placement Program • School Based Services YOUTH PROGRAMS GNO • Holiday Retreats • The Lounge • Year Round Events
OUR MISSION Madraigos, a 501c-3 not-for-profit organization, offers a wide array of innovative services and programs geared towards helping teens and young adults overcome life’s everyday challenges one step at a time. Our goal is to provide all of our members with the necessary tools and skills to empower them to live a healthy lifestyle and become the leaders of tomorrow. 936 BROADWAY WOODMERE, NY 11598 | P: 516-371-3250 | F: 516-612-4515 | INFO@MADRAIGOS.ORG | WWW.MADRAIGOS.ORG
109
110
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
In The K
tchen
Shavuot Delights My family prefers certain foods on particular holidays. For Shavuot, there are three dishes that they consider to be “must-haves” which I have included below. I hope your family will enjoy these recipes as much as mine does.
Cheese Mixture Ingredients ½ cup flour 1 egg, beaten ¾ cup plain panko crumbs 1 tablespoon sesame seeds ½ tablespoon black sesame seeds 1 10.5-ounce log plain goat cheese (I buy mine at Costco) ½ cup canola oil
Preparation
By Naomi Nachman
Fried Goat Cheese Salad with Raspberry Vinaigrette I love goat cheese in any shape or form. I have melted it into sauces, spread it on bread, or crumbled it on top of pasta. My favorite way to eat it is in this salad. I make croutons out of the goat cheese and eat it with this delicious salad. I recently discovered the Natural and Kosher brand Cranberry Pecan goat cheese flavor. It’s perfect for this salad, adding another layer of flavor.
Set up three dishes on the counter: Fill the first with flour, the second with the egg, and the third with the panko crumbs and the sesame seeds. Slice the goat cheese into at least 10-15 slices and form each slice into disc about the size of a quarter. Coat each disc in flour, then in egg, then in the panko crumb mixture. Once they’re all coated, set them aside while your pan heats up. Place a sauté pan over medium heat and bring ½ cup oil to 360°F using an oil thermometer. Once the oil is hot, place the coated discs of goat cheese into the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 1 minute. Drain on a paper towel and cool. Set aside and prepare dressing.
Dressing Ingredients 1 tablespoon shallots, finely minced 3 tablespoons raspberry preserves 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1/3 cup olive oil Salt and ground black pepper
Preparation Place shallot in food processor and mince finely. Add the preserves and vinegar. In a steady stream while machine is running add the olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. You can do this by hand with a whisk but it is a smoother consistency in a food processor.
Salad Ingredients 3 cups mixed greens ½ red onion, sliced, optional ½ cup honey glazed pecans, halved
Preparation Place salad greens on a large platter, scatter red onions and pecans over the top. Add the cheese rings around them and drizzle with dressing. Photo credit: Melinda Strauss
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 | MAY 25, 2017
111
Lemon Curd Trifle
Sweet and Sour Tilapia
My daughter Gabi loves lemon curd, so I wanted to include a recipe for it here. I love this version because it has no margarine or hydrogenated oils. Layer the curd with ladyfinger or cookie crumbs for a show-stopping dessert.
When I started developing recipes and giving cooking classes, this recipe was the first collaboration with my mother. My mum was visiting from Australia and we had a great time coming up with the recipe together. Ever since then, it’s been one of the most frequently requested recipes from my catering clients.
Ingredients 1 cup lemon juice 1 cup sugar 2 whole eggs plus 2 egg yolks Crushed ladyfingers or cookie crumbs, for layering, optional
Preparation In a small saucepan, combine lemon juice and sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring until sugar has dissolved, forming simple sugar syrup. Set aside to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge. In a small bowl, lightly beat eggs and egg yolks. Slowly add beaten eggs into cold sugar syrup in the saucepan. Heat over low heat for five minutes, stirring constantly, until bubbles begin to form at the edges. Do not bring to a boil. Remove from heat; press through a strainer into a bowl to remove any curdled eggs. Set aside to cool. Serve lemon curd in individual dessert cups, or layer lemon curd and crushed ladyfingers in tall glasses, as shown. Serve chilled. Tip: Make sure the syrup is cold before you add the eggs, or the heat of the syrup will cook the eggs.
Photo Credit: Miriam Pascal
Ingredients 1-2 pounds tilapia fillets, cut in half lengthwise 1 teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Sauce: 3 tablespoons oil 1 large onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 4 carrots, peeled, sliced into rounds 1 cup ketchup ¾ cup brown sugar Pinch cinnamon 1 cup water, 1 (14-ounce) can pineapple chunks in heavy syrup Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste
Preparation Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare an ovenproof baking dish large enough to hold all the fillets in one layer. Rinse fish; pat dry. Season with salt and pepper. Place into prepared baking dish; set aside. Prepare the sauce: Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Sauté leeks with garlic until soft. Add carrots; sauté for 2 minutes. Add ketchup, cinnamon, brown sugar, 1 cup water, and pineapple chunks with their syrup. Bring sauce to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 -10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour sauce over fish in the baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, until fish flakes easily when pierced with a fork. Tip: Skinless salmon fillets also work well in this recipe. I have also used this sauce and technique with chicken cutlets. Photo Credit : Miriam Pascal
Printed with by permission by Naomi Nachman, Artscroll 2017
20 112
OCTOBER 29, |2015 The Jewish MAY 25, 2017 The |Jewish HomeHome
Notable Quotes “Say What?!”
The waiters know well Trump’s personal preferences. As he settles down, they bring him a Diet Coke, while the rest of us are served water, with the Vice President sitting at one end of the table. With the salad course, Trump is served what appears to be Thousand Island dressing instead of the creamy vinaigrette for his guests. When the chicken arrives, he is the only one given an extra dish of sauce. At the dessert course, he gets two scoops of vanilla ice cream with his chocolate cream pie, instead of the single scoop for everyone else. The tastes of Pence are also tended to. Instead of the pie, he gets a fruit plate. – From a Time Magazine exclusive inside the Trump White House
Marriage is like a marathon, it’s not a sprint. There’s a lot of years ahead of you in a marriage and sometimes you’re both really into it and can push each other and sometimes the other partner has to help pull you through whatever challenge lies ahead. You both have to keep each other motivated in a race and in a marriage. - Alexander Salazar, explaining why he and his bride, Krissa Cetner, stopped six miles into the Brooklyn half marathon last Saturday to get married
After Air Force One landed in Israel, Donald Trump reached for Melania’s hand and she slapped it away. Yeah, there’s video of it. She slaps it away. So, we’ve been wrong all this time. They apparently do have a normal marriage. – Conan O’Brien
The president and first lady visited Israel today. Trump arrived in Tel Aviv this morning with his wife Melania. He went to hold her hand and she kind of gave him a little, kind of, get-that-away-from-me. I’m no body language expert but I think that’s a sign for “I’m supposed to be shopping on Fifth Avenue right now.” – Jimmy Kimmel
Israeli fires on Palestinian protesters in the West Bank, killing one. - New York Times headline after a Samaria resident was nearly lynched by an angry Arab mob last week and was forced to open fire to defend himself, killing one of his attackers and wounding another
[I am] fed up with chasing after you. - Likud party coalition chairman David Bitan chastising Culture Minister Miri Regev for missing party votes, at a cabinet meeting
If you were chasing me, you would be on a diet. - Regev’s retort to the overweight Bitan
Ceasefire! - Prime Minister Netanyahu as he banged a gavel on the conference table to stop the squabble
MORE QUOTES
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Join us in
with
July 12-20 ITALY
Rabbi Ephraim E. Shapiro
Visit the cities of Venice, Rome, Padua, Florence and more • Enjoy a memorable Shabbos in the stunning Italian countryside • Daven at the kevarim of R' Moshe Dovid Vali, Marham Padua, and the Rema MiPano • Experience Italy's rich Jewish history and beautiful Shuls • Tour the canals of Venice, museums of Florence, ancient city of Rome and much more! R’ Abish Brodt
The Maggid’s Journey to
with
August 8-16 UKRAINE
Rabbi Paysach Krohn
Visit Mekomos Hakdoshim in Uman, Mezibuzh, Berditchiv & Annapoli • Daven at the Kevorim of the Baal Shem Tov, Reb Levi Yitzchok of Berditchiv, Reb Nachman in Uman, and much more • Experience today's thriving Ukrainian Yiddishkeit in schools, camps, shuls and local communities • Tour the modern city of Kiev, ancient castles in Kamianets-Podilskyi, and historic Shuls in Mezibuzh • Learn about the birth of chassidus and its journey westwards Live Musical t! Entertainmen
Discover Rich Jewish Heritage • Visit Stunning Shuls Deluxe Gourmet Glatt Kosher Catering Relaxing & Exciting Touring Vacation • Be Inspired & Entertained
call 732.523.7917 / email INFO@EANDSTOURS.COM
113
114
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
21
Dear Governor Brown, My class visited the Capitol on April 19. While we were there I took a hazelnut and a pen from the Capitol Building. These things were not mine and it was wrong for me to take them. I’m very sorry. I hope you and the people of Oregon can forgive me. – The handwritten letter sent by 4th grader Samuel Revenko to Oregon Governor Kate Brown
I think we can forgive Samuel, don’t you think, Oregonians? – Tweet by Governor Kate Brown with the hashtag, #cutestmailever
Samuel, in exchange for your apology, debt repayment, and return of the pen you lifted, I formally pardon you from any further penalty. I hope the pen coming your way will be an adequate memento of your visit at the Capitol. Come back soon! – Facebook post by Governor Brown
Yesterday, a brawl broke out at a Florida airport after Spirit Airlines canceled several flights. To restore control, airport police were forced to fire Cinnabons into the crowd. – Conan O’Brien
Over the weekend, the world’s biggest-ever cyberattack spread around the globe infecting 150 countries. It’s pretty horrifying. Computers have been totally destroyed. In some cases, in extreme cases, people were forced to have actual face-to-face conversations. It was a nightmare. – James Corden
The virus involved in the attack is called ransomware and it locks up your computer and tells you that you can unlock it by paying the hackers $300. Which is kind of insulting when you think about it, when the hackers are like, “If you want your life back, you give us … $300.” That’s it? That’s all I’m worth? My life, $300? – Ibid.
Walls work, just ask Israel. - President Trump during a White House press conference last week with the president of Colombia, when asked about his plans to build the wall between the U.S. and Mexico
You know, in Israel all the people like us. The media hate us but the people love us, like you. - Sarah Netanyahu to the Trumps, shortly after greeting them during a ceremony in Ben Gurion Airport this week
This is the single greatest witch hunt of a politician in American history! - Tweet by President Trump after Robert Mueller was appointed to investigate any collusion between his campaign and Russia
As the Representative of Salem, MA, I can confirm that this is false.
We have a lot in common. .- President Trump in response
The fundamental problem we have here is the definition of peace. How do you define peace? If peace means Israel can no longer retain their Jewish state or give up control of Jerusalem, if that’s peace, that’s not gonna happen. - Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) on CNN, commenting on Trump’s efforts to revive peace talks in Israel
- Tweet by Congressman Seth Moulton who represents Salem, MA, where in 1692 sixteen women were hanged for being witches
MORE QUOTES
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
115
116 22
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
He had a concussion last year. I mean he has concussions pretty much every [year] ... I mean, we don’t talk about. But he does have concussions. - Tom Brady’s wife on CBS’s “This Morning” (NFL rules require players to disclose when they have concussions. Tom Brady never disclosed any concussions last year)
Spirit’s having a dispute with its pilots. The pilots say Spirit is paying them peanuts. Not figuratively — they pay them with the little bags of peanuts we used to get before everyone was allergic. – Jimmy Kimmel
Love your shoes. Boy, those shoes…man. - President Trump to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sissi when the two spoke in Saudi Arabia
MORE QUOTES MODEST SWIMWEAR FOR LADIES AND GIRLS ALL SWIMWEAR IS 50+ UPF
IM
W
SW
S E K
R A E
U O Y
AT H T
. E R
HE
W Y N
A
TA
BROOKLYN: 1323 Ocean Parkway (bet. Ave M &N) • Sun-Thurs 10am-5pm • MIAMI: 548 41st street Miami Beach, FL (inside Chewing Gum)
CALL FOR A LOCATION NEAR YOU! • 877-613-8299 • WWW.UNDERCOVERWATERWEAR.COM
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
117
118
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | OCTOBER 29, 2015
23
Hillary Clinton is forming a group called Onward Together, a political organization that is anti-Trump. Experts are calling it bold, ambitious, and six months too late. - James Corden
I said I’m gonna hook these people up — people got to eat. - Jim Leary of Dom’s NY Style Pizzeria in Newport, Del., after he navigated through a backyard and a steep embankment to deliver pizza to passengers on a stalled Amtrak train
I never thought she was the correct candidate. I thought I was the correct candidate. - Joe Biden speaking at a conference in Las Vegas last weekend, referring to Hillary Clinton
There’s so much negativity in the world. The thing about pizza is it brings people together. People don’t give pizza that much credit. When I go into a house [with a delivery] everyone’s faces light up. - Ibid., extolling the virtues of pizza
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
I Gave My Granddaughter the Gift of a
Healthy Future. Helen knows that health isn’t a given; it’s a gift passed m’dor l’dor. So when her daughter Sarah was pregnant, she gave her soon-to-be granddaughter the gift of health by helping Sarah bank her baby’s cord blood at Maze. As one of the lowest priced, FDA-approved and accredited cord blood banks with no annual fees and a $50,000 Quality Product Guarantee*, Helen’s peace of mind won’t come with any surprise costs or charges. Now, Helen can spend less time worrying about the future and more time playing with her granddaughter. Read why more parents (and grandparents) are choosing Maze at www.MazeHealthyFuture.com.
“When my daughter became pregnant, I looked at several cord blood companies for my grandson. I choose Maze because they were knowledgeable, made the process easy and provided the best value. I will definitely plan to use them again!” – ELLA, BERGENFIELD, NJ
Receive $400 off
Cord Blood & Tissue (use code: Healthy) or $200 off Cord Blood (use code: Happy)
Enroll Online at www.MazeCordBlood.com
Give your family our best. 2975 Westchester Avenue | Purchase, New York 10577 914-488-0057 MazeCordBlood.com *If your child’s cord blood is used in a stem cell transplant and fails to engraft, Maze will pay up to $50,000 to defray the cost of the procurement of an alternative stem cell source if medically indicated.
119
120
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Political Crossfire
The Guardrails Can’t Contain Trump By Charles Krauthammer
T
he pleasant surprise of the First 100 Days is over. The action was hectic, heated, often confused, but well within the bounds of normalcy. Policy (e.g., health care) was being hashed out, a Supreme Court nominee confirmed, foreign policy challenges (e.g. North Korea) addressed. Donald Trump’s character – volatile, impulsive, often self-destructive – had not changed since the campaign. But it seemed as if the guardrails of our democracy – Congress, the courts, the states, the media, the Cabinet – were keeping things within bounds. Then came the last 10 days. The country is now caught in the internal maelstrom that is the mind of Donald Trump. We are in the realm of the id. Chaos reigns. No guardrails can hold. Normal activity disappears. North Korea’s launch of an alarming new missile and a problematic visit from the president of Turkey (locus of our most complicated and tortured allied relationship) barely evoke notice. Nothing can escape the black hole of a three-part presidential meltdown. — First, the firing of James Comey. Trump, consumed by the perceived threat of the Russia probe to his legitimacy, executes a mindlessly impulsive dismissal of the FBI director. He then surrounds it with a bodyguard of lies – attributing the dismissal to a Justice Department recommendation – which his staff goes out and parrots. Only to be undermined and humiliated when the boss contradicts
them within 48 hours. Result? Layers of falsehoods giving the impression of an elaborate cover-up – in the absence of a crime. At least Nixon was trying to quash a third-rate burglary and associated felonies. Here we don’t even have a body, let alone a smoking gun. Trump insists there’s no there there, but acts as if the there is everywhere. —Second, Trump’s divulging classified information to the Russians. A stupid, needless mistake. But despite the media hysteria, hardly an irrepa-
had three top officials come out and declare the disclosure story false. The next morning, Trump tweeted he was entirely within his rights to reveal what he revealed, thereby verifying the truth of the story. His national security adviser H.R. McMaster floundered his way through a news conference, trying to reconcile his initial denial with Trump’s subsequent contradiction. It was a sorry sight. —Is it any wonder, therefore, that when the third crisis hit on Tuesday night – the Comey memo claiming
The country is now caught in the internal maelstrom that is the mind of Donald Trump.
rable national security calamity. The Israelis, whose asset might have been jeopardized, are no doubt upset, but the notion that this will cause a great rupture to their (and others’) intelligence relationship with the U.S. is nonsense. These kinds of things happen all the time. When the Obama administration spilled secrets of the anti-Iranian Stuxnet virus or blew the cover of a double agent in Yemen, there was none of the garment-rending that followed Trump’s disclosure. Once again, however, the cover-up far exceeded the crime. Trump
that Trump tried to get him to call off the FBI investigation of Michael Flynn – Republicans hid under their beds rather than come out to defend the president? The White House hurriedly issued a statement denying the story. The statement was unsigned. You want your name on a statement that your boss could peremptorily contradict in a twitter-second? Republicans are beginning to panic. One sign is the notion now circulating that, perhaps to fend off ultimate impeachment, Trump be dumped by way of 25th Amendment. That’s the post-Kennedy assassi-
nation measure that provides for removing an incapacitated president on the decision of the vice president and a majority of the Cabinet. This is the worst idea since Leno at 10 p.m. It perverts the very intent of the amendment. It was meant for a stroke, not stupidity; for Alzheimer’s, not narcissism. Otherwise, what it authorizes is a coup – willful overthrow by the leader’s own closest associates. I thought we had progressed beyond the Tudors and the Stuarts. Moreover, this would be seen by millions as an establishment usurpation to get rid of a disruptive outsider. It would be the most destabilizing event in American political history – the gratuitous overthrow of an essential constant in American politics, namely the fixedness of the presidential term (save for high crimes and misdemeanors). Trump’s behavior is deeply disturbing but hardly surprising. His mercurial nature is not the product of a post-inaugural adder sting at Mara-Lago. It’s been there all along. And the American electorate chose him nonetheless. What to do? Strengthen the guardrails. Redouble oversight of this errant president. Follow the facts, especially the Comey memos. And let the chips fall where they may. But no tricks, constitutional or otherwise. (c) 2017, The Washington Post Writers Group
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
121
122
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Forgotten Her es Strange Stories from World War II By Avi Heiligman
Pigeon code found in England and sent from the D-Day beaches
Chips, war dog hero
A “membership card” to the Goldfish Club
Yang KyoungJong fought for three different armies
1943 Chips’ unit was pinned down by machine gunfire. Chips broke free from his handler and attacked the pillbox, forcing the four Italian soldiers to surrender – all of whom had dog bites. That night he alerted his unit to an ambush which resulted in the capture of another ten Italian prisoners. Chips served in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany while earning the Silver Star, Distinguished Service Cross and the Purple Heart. These awards were eventually taken away from him because of army regulations against giving animals medals. Pigeons had been used to transport messages during World War I between trenches and headquarters. During the Second World War their use spanned longer distances. There was still the possibility of the pigeon being shot out of the sky so sometimes codes were used in the messages attached to the bird. In 2012 the remains of one of these pigeons along with a coded message was found in a chimney in England. The bird had been sent from the D-Day landing beaches in France but did
not return to its proper home loft. Even more peculiar than the story was the message itself. It potentially contained sensitive information but no one was able to crack the code (there were some codebreakers who claimed they cracked it but none have been officially recognized). Many soldiers fighting for the Nazis weren’t of German heritage. Yang KyoungJong fought for three armies before being captured by American paratroopers. Born in Korea, Yang was conscripted to fight for the Japanese in Manchuria. During a battle in 1939 he was captured by the Soviets (who had yet to sign the non-aggression treaty with Japan) and was sent to a labor camp. In 1942 the Soviets found themselves short of fighting men and went through POW camps looking for men who would not easily turn on their fellow soldiers. Along with thousands of other former POWs Yang was forced to fight against the Germans. A year later, during the Battle of Kharkov in the Ukraine, Yang was captured by the Germans. Again, he was given a rifle by his captors and told to
fight. This time he was sent to Occupied France and was placed near Utah Beach when on June 6, 1944 he was captured by the 101st Airborne Division. At the beginning the paratroopers thought he – along with three other Asians captured – were Japanese. There were several Japanese speakers in the U.S. Army at the time but no one was able to communicate with him and soon they discovered he was Korean. Yang was transferred to a POW camp in the U.S. where he settled after the war. Not all French soldiers were anti-Nazi and some joined the Wehrmacht to fight the communists. The Frenchmen had been part of other units fighting with the Germans prior to joining the Charlemagne Division. They had been sent to fight the Russians in several areas including Poland late in the war. Germany had comparatively few troops to defend Berlin against the Russian Army in early 1945. About 700 Frenchmen were left in this division when they were called to defend the crumbling Nazi capital. On the first day of the defense they lost a large number of
Part II
W
ars throughout the centuries have their peculiarities and interesting stories that go along with the gore and horrors. Perhaps no war has more strange and fascinating stories than World War II. Here is the second installment on this topic. Throughout history animals were no strangers to the battlefield. During World War II many were used in capacities never seen before. In the past many were used just for transportation or to remind the soldiers of the comforts of home. During World War II they were being used for other uses like as guard dogs. One such dog was a German Shepherd named Chips. After the attack at Pearl Harbor the army wanted dogs so they can be trained for sentry duty. Chips’ owners from Pleasantville, New York, gladly offered his services to the unit called the K-9 Corps. Private John Rowell was his handler and together they were sent to several theaters of operations. Soon he became the most decorated animal in the armed forces. During the invasion of Sicily in
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
123
124
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
troops and by the time Berlin was captured only 30 remained. Ironically, Frenchmen were part of the last group to defend Hitler’s, ym”sh, bunker despite the havoc he caused on their fellow countrymen. After the war many of the Frenchmen were sent to prison as collaborators and a few were shot as traitors. The main D-Day for France was June 6, 1944 (there was another landing in August in Southern France codenamed Operation Dragoon). Almost 5,000 Allied soldiers were killed on the five beaches. The Americans took the Utah and Omaha beaches, the Canadians stormed Juno, and the British led the way at Sword and Gold. Born in Canada Bill Millin was of Scottish origin and his family moved back there when he was a youngster. He was the personal bagpiper to Lord Lovat who was the general of the British commandos. During the landings at Sword Beach, Lovat commanded Millin to play the bagpipes despite regula-
tions. Men were falling all around him but Millin kept on playing. Later, when asked why they didn’t shoot the kilt-wearing bagpiper, captured German snipers answered that they had thought he was crazy. The troops
Interestingly, sixty years earlier hamburgers were renamed liberty steaks in order to avoid using the Germansounding name.
with Lovat and Millin were encouraged by hearing the bagpipes. He kept on playing until they captured their objective of Pegasus Bridge. Remember in 2003 that French fries were renamed freedom fries in response to France’s opposition to the Iraq War? Interestingly, six-
Low Cost Quality Insurance
Our Specialty Free Consultation
Free Policy Evaluation
Ask the Rabbi !!?? The Rabbi loves a bargain (a metzia) Let the Rabbi help you save money (up to 50%)
¾ ¾ ¾ ¾ ¾
ty years earlier hamburgers were renamed liberty steaks in order to avoid using the German-sounding name. When an airman had to make a water landing it was called “coming
Large Commercial Insurance Policies Life Insurance Disability Insurance Self Employed Health Insurance Long Term Care insurance Rabbi S. M. Leiner, CLTC
Licensed Independent Broker for All Types of Insurance
Call: 917‐543‐0497 – Leave a message
Mail: Rabbi S. M. Leiner, CLTC P.O. Box # 7655 600 Franklin Ave Garden City, NY 11530
Premier clients receive a copy of my book (sefer) “Sweeter Than Honey” as a gift
down in the drink.” Whether they were shot down or were forced to ditch because of mechanical problems they were equipped with a lifejacket, lifeboat or similar apparatus. Soon (hopefully) a float plane or friendly boat would pick them up. In order to keep the spirit alive with
other Allied airmen who had similar experiences an association called the Goldfish Club was formed. The only requirement to join was that a serviceman had to be fished out of saltwater. By the end of WWII they were 9,000 members of the club – although they couldn’t wear the insignia on their uniforms due to regulations. These are just some of the interesting stories that took place on the bloodiest conflict the world has ever seen. The author is debating whether to write more strange and interesting stories during World War II and other conflicts. Feel free to email him at aviheiligman@gmail. com to give your opinion on what should be written for future articles. 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.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
125
126
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
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
SERVICES Violin Lessons in your home In the Five Towns, and West Hempstead areas All levels including beginners Call Elie at 516-359-3801 PIANO LESSONS Experienced piano teacher For ages 8 years and up References available Will come to your home Email: localpianoman@gmail.com
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!
Morah Adina’s CAMP ZEES-KAYITZ for 3-4 year olds *A FEW SPOTS LEFT* Centrally located in Far Rockaway Call (718)471-5283
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
HOUSES FOR SALE
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 5 TOWNS SPORTS COACH!! Want your child to gain confidence, be more athletic, and enhance their lives with sports?? I have over 10 years of experience teaching Tennis, basketball, baseball, football or any other sport, working with kids and young adults of all skill levels. One on one training so your child gets the attention and confidence they need and deserve. For more details and to sign up please call 248-755-2692 References available. Don’t wait- limited space available.
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
BAYSWATER House for sale by owner - hi-ranch, excellent location, well-maintained -3+1 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, -large new porch off master bdrm -finished basement with guest room and playroom -no water from Sandy -Price Reduced...Asking $525,000 -call/text 516 385 0331 CEDARHURST: Center Hall Colonial on Quiet Cul-DeSac. Backing The Golf Course. 5 Bedrooms, 4 Full Bathrooms, Large Eat-in Kitchen, Den, Finished Basement, Attic, Heated In-Ground Pool, & Much More!!!...$1.3M Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com FAR ROCKAWAY: NEW TO MARKET!!! 4BR, 1.5BA Colonial, Formal DR, Very High Ceilings, Fin Bsmt, CAC, Extra Piece of Property on Side of House, Prime Location…$989K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
HOUSES FOR SALE HEWLETT: Well Maintained 4BR, 2BA Cape On Quiet Residential Street In Hewlett School District 14, Formal DR, Den, New Fence, 1 Year Old Boiler…$580K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com HEWLETT: Charming 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Colonial, Eat-in Kitchen, Master Bedroom W/ Jacuzzi & Steam Shower, New Roof, Anderson Windows, Alarm, Central Vac & Much More, 13,000 SF Lot…$599K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com INWOOD: NEW TO MARKET!!! 3BR, 2.5BA Split, Open Concept LR/DR/ Kitchen, Lg Great Rm W/High Ceilings & Fireplace, Spacious Backyard W/ Lovely Patio, Partial Fin Bsmt, SD#15, CAC…$589K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
HOUSES FOR SALE Can’t afford your property taxes? Mortgage? Must sell for any reason? Call for FREE Consultation. Call now 212-470-3856 Cash buyers available! WOODMERE: PRICE REDUCED Nicely Maintained Brick & Stucco CH Colonial, 3BR, 2BA, Formal DR, Spacious Master BR, Room to Expand, Low Taxes…$679K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
COMMERCIAL RE ROCKVILLE CENTRE Warehouse With Office 6,000 ft. available. Ideal Location. Walk to LIRR - Double Loading dock. 917-822-0499 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
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
127
Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 COMMERCIAL RE
COMMERCIAL RE
COMMERCIAL RE
APT FOR RENT
5 TOWNS: LOOKING FOR: Orthotist, 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
VALLEY STREAM: 1,700+/-SF Office Space with Reserved Parking, Utilities Included, For Lease … Call for More Details Broker (516) 792-6698
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
Seeking to Rent your home or property with option to buy Good credit, on time payments 718-304-4348
WOODMERE: High Tech Executive Suites W/Parking & Storage, Various Sizes Available, All New!!! 24 Hour Access, All Utilities Included Plus Many Amenities, For Lease…Call Lori for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
ROCKVILLE CENTRE: PRIME SUNRISE Hwy Location, 13000SF Lot with 10000SF Free Standing Bldg & 2 Partial Basements, Vacant Adjoining Lot Included, Retail/Office Use, For Sale …Call Lenny for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
WOODMERE: Follow The Leader To Woodmere, Now Is The Time To Act!!! No Metered Parking, Various Retail/Office Spaces Available, For Sale/Lease... Call For More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
FRANKLIN SQUARE: 1,100+/-SF Professional Space in Building, Reception Area, Waiting Room, On-Site Parking, Great for Any Professional Use, For Lease... Call Alan for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
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
HEWLETT: 850+/-SF Office Space, 2nd Floor Walkup in Professional Bldg with On-Site Parking, For Lease… Call Lori for More Details (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
355 Central Avenue, Lawrence NY 11559 (Across the street from Seasons)
P: 516.791.6100 | F: 516.374.7059 www.WeissmanRealty.com
THE SPRING SELLING SEASON IS HERE If you are thinking of selling your house or just curious about how much your house is worth, call on our expert team to give you a free market analysis.
CEDARHURST
LAWRENCE CO-OP
Reduced
In Contract
3bd, 2bth with gorgeous granite kitchen. Large grnd oor opens to back and water. Just needs to be nished. Make it the way you want. Call Sherri $689K negotiable.
Pleasant One Bdrm W/ Oversized Entry And EIK. One Of The Better Coop Buildings In Lawrence. Move Right In To This Clean And Neat Apt Or It Has Great Bones For Nice Remodel. $119,000K Call Sherri Slochowsky 516-297-7995 for a showing.
APARTMENT & OFFICE RENTALS Far Rockaway office for lease 1850 sq ft, Four rms and reception, Ground oor in beautiful building Call Sherri for details 516-297-7995
Far Rockaway office for lease Cornaga location, 3 to 4 offices, plus
bthrm. Good for doctor, dentist or business. $1900 Call Sherri 516-297-7995
Cedarhurst offices for lease Single rooms or executive suites. All utilities included. Starting at $400. Call Sherri 516-297-7995
CO-OP FOR SALE FAR ROCKAWAY 833 Central , 1st floor, balcony, doorman. Completely renovated, near LIRR, 2BR/2 full bath, 2 DW/sinks, wood cabinets, granite counters $339 917-572-9644 WOODMERE: BEST BUY – NEW PRICE SMALL PETS OK: Beautiful Corner Unit In Elevator Bldg, 2BR, 5 Closets, All Large Rooms, Sunny & Spacious, Close To All...$165K Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com
APT FOR RENT LAWRENCE. LARGE ONE BEDROOM APT. Close to train, underground parking, spacious living room/dining area. Motivated seller $118,000. Call 917-299-8082
HEWLETT NO FEE Two - 1BR APT IN BLDG - RENOVATED 1BR Apt In The Heart Of Hewlett, SS Appliances, New Cabinetry, Recessed Lighting, Hard Wood Floors, Washer/ Dryer In Bldg, Close To All, NO FEE...$1,995/mo Call Carol Braunstein (516) 295-3000 www.pugatch.com APARTMENT FOR RENT ON SEAGIRT AND BEACH 9TH. Two floors recently added private front entrance, central air. Perfect for young couple asking for $1750 a month includes heat. Please call 347 524 3864
128
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Renovated 1BR Apt, Eik, 4BR,4BA Home,Formal DR, 1BR Apt On 5th Flr, Elev Mid Block Location,3BR Close To All..$1,995/mo Eik, Near All..$4,000/mo Bldg,Pet Friendly..$129K Colonial,Near All..$539K
Updated 4BR, 2.5BA Hi- Waterfront 6BR, 6.5BA Lovely 4BR Brick Colonial W/Add’l Piece Of Property Ranch, Near All..$759K Col,Dock,IG-Pool..$2.2M On The Side, Eik, Formal DR, Prime Loct..$989K
Carol Braunstein
Susan Pugatch
Call or Text
(516) 592-2206
cbraunstein@pugatch.com
(516)
www.pugatch.com
N. WOODMERE: 501 Hungry Harbor Rd (1-3)$759K
8,600SF Day Care/School Various Classrooms Multi-Purpose Rm & Kitchen Close to Public Transportation
850SF Office Space 2nd Floor Walk-Up On-Site Parking Available Great Location, Close to All
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
129
Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 SITUATION WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Driver/Personal Assistant/Companion Experienced male seeks parttime evening/weekends position performing the above duties at reasonable rates. Excellent references. Contact Arnold cancerman1961@gmail.com
SCHOOL SECRETARY POSITION AVAILABLE IN QUEENS Located in Kew Gardens, small boys kiruv school seeks secretary to run school office. Tasks include answering phones, daily attendance, creating flyers, helping with mailings, coordinating various programs such as busing, state testing, etc. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and a strong computers background necessary, experience in schools a plus. Hours are MondayThursday 8:30-3:45, Friday 8:30-12:15, possibly adjustable. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send resumes to jobseekfr@yahoo.com
SEEKING ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AND PRE-SCHOOL TEACHERS AND ASSISTANT TEACHERS FOR THE COMING SCHOOL YEAR. Bais Yaakov in Far Rockaway. Please email resume to teachingpositions1@gmail.com
HELP WANTED TEACHING POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN BOYS MIDDLE SCHOOL IN QUEENS 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 Immediate openings for Middle School Language Arts Teacher and Limudei Kodesh Maternity substitute in Hebrew Academy of Long Beach - afternoons only. Resumes to ulubetski@halb.org
SIACH YITZCHOK - FAR ROCKAWAY seeks JH Math & ELA teachers candidateteacher@gmail.com We are a mesivta in the Far Rockaway/5 towns area, seeking experienced teachers only in ELA , Math, Chemistry and History for September 2017 for Grades 9 thru 12, afternoons only: We provide a professional, warm and supportive environment with an excellent salary. Please email resume to: 5tmesivta@gmail.com
Yeshiva Ketana of Queens Looking for: 1) Energetic & Inspiring Female General Studies Teachers 2017-2018. Grades 2-5 Email Resume Rlswia@aol.com 718-969-1000 EXT 105 2) Administrative Assistant, excellent phone skills, organized, knowledge in Microsoft Word and Excel. Email resume aoppenheimer@yeshivaketana.com Special Ed preschool looking for CB EI teacher for summer only Good pay and conditions 9AM-3PM ~ July 10-August 21 Please email scohen@onourwaylc.org Special Ed teacher for CPSE program Positive and growing environment Competitive pay Experience preferred Email resume to scohen@onourwaylc.org No phone calls please
HELP WANTED Moonlight, a modern orthodox bung colony seeks experienced teens for male and female counselor positions and asst lifeguard positions. If you are looking to have a blast this summer, and love kids then bring a friend and come join us. We offer housing, meals, salary, tips and so much more. For more info or to apply please email moonlightsummer15@gmail.com Special Education Early Childhood Center looking for a Physical Therapist to conduct Early Intervention and CPSE evaluations (children 0-5). Flexible hours. Please email resume and sample evaluation to ewaldman@ onourwaylc.org Shulamith Early Childhood is looking to hire an innovative and qualified HEAD TEACHER FOR THE 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR. Please email your resume to earlychildhood@shulamith.org COMPUTER TEACHER, for elementary school, Sept 2017, email fivetownseducators@gmail.com
130
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Classifieds HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
MISC
Shulamith Early Childhood is looking to hire WARM AND NURTURING TEACHER ASSISTANTS for the 20172018 school year. Please email you resume to earlychildhood@shulamith.org
TEACHER FOR BOYS HIGH SCHOOL,
OVERNIGHT \WEEKEND COUNSELOR Responsible and exp’d staff to live in a beautiful group home & work 3 nights\ week 7pm - 9am. Staff are not req’d to remain awake after 11pm. Staff are req’d to work two weekends per month. Free rent & food. Stipend given as well. Great for college girl. For additional info contact Frayde Yudkowsky at 732.948.4636 or fyudkowsky@ evolvetreatment.com
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
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. GENERAL STUDIES TEACHERS Sept. ’17: JH - Math, ELA. Elementary Lead and Assistant teachers. M-Th afternoons. 5 Towns Area Boys’ School. Email resume: theteacherhunt@gmail.com Local F.T. Accounting Office Seeks P/T JR. ACCOUNTANT proficient in Q.B. knowledge of payroll tax, sales tax, business tax and individual taxes Qualified applicants should please e-mail resume to: 5towntaxoffice@gmail.com JOIN OUR TEAM! Established Travel Concierge specializing in Credit Card Rewards redemption is looking to hire Mileage Travel Agents for our 5 Towns office. Experience in mileage bookings required. Salary and Commission commensurate with experience. For more info, please contact admin@getpeyd.com 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
Sept 2017, Math, Science, Computers 12:45-3:00 email jobsatyeshiva@gmail.com Yeshiva Ketana of Queens Looking for Energetic & Inspiring Female GENERAL STUDIES TEACHERS 2017-2018. Grades 2-5 Email Resume Rlswia@aol.com 718-969-1000 EXT 105 REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT COMPANY is looking for an experienced Investor Relation associate to raise capital for sponsor/investor relationships. Compensation will be offered thru partnership/commission. Contact info@zreny.com 718-285-0941 WARM, LOVING, HEIMISHE PLAYGROUP IN FAR ROCKAWAY – AGES 2 ½ TO 4 – IS LOOKING FOR ASSISTANTS AND SUBSTITUTES. PLEASE CALL 516-371-6848 CATAPULT LEARNING Teachers, Title I Boro Park, Williamsburg and Flatbush Schools *College/Yeshiva Degree *Teaching experience required *Strong desire to help children learn *Small group instruction *Excellent organization skills Competitive salary Send resume to: Fax: (212) 480-3691 ~ Email: nyteachers@catapultlearning.com
Life CAPTURE
I M A G E S LTD PHOTOGRAPHY I VIDEO
GABRIEL SOLOMON
GABE@LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM 516.499.9620 WWW.LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM
MISC DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, VAN, SUV AND HELP ILL CHILDREN Get $1200 in gift cards and $1500 tax deduction 718-974-9428 SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURES Tickets + Safari Valid any operating day $40 Parking passes $20 Call or text Shua @917-923-0011
SHIDDUCH DATING? NEED PLACES TO GO? Check out Pegishaplace.com
RAMAT BEIT SHEMESH ALEPH Comfortable 1.5 bedroom vacation rental -- perfect for your next visit to Ramat Beit Shemesh. Elegantly furnished with luxurious orthopedic beds, spacious living/ dining area, modern bathroom with all the amenities. Ground-floor entrance, with room for parking -- five-minute stroll to the shopping area. Sleeps up to five. A/C, Wifi, washer/ dryer, kitchenette. Please contact us for daily and weekly rates. Mordechai +972-58-4804238 Email: mgreiver@outlook.com
Small Ads at Work
Classifieds
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
PATHWAY STUDY CENTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
ישיבה דרּכו ּבית יעקב דרּכו
A TRUE LEADER IN THE FIELD OF EDUCATING YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DYSLEXIA AND OTHER LANGUAGE CHALLENGES!
endorsed by harav yaakov bender, shlita
131
132
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Your
Money
“And the Award Goes To...” By Allan Rolnick, CPA
R
ight now, all across America, thousands of talented youngsters are dreaming of careers in performing arts. Whether they aspire to be the next Meryl Streep, or Taylor Swift, or Lin-Manuel Miranda, they understand the odds of success are long. But they still dream that one day they’ll find themselves in the audience at the Oscars, the Grammys, or the Tonys, waiting with their hearts in their throats as a tuxedo-clad presenter opens an envelope and reads their name. At the same time, thousands more Americans grow up dreaming of careers in law enforcement. These future Elliot Nesses aren’t looking for the red carpets or glamour of Hollywood. But there are awards waiting for the best of them, too. And this year, our friends at the IRS are basking in those bright lights. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is a bureau of the U.S. Treasury dedicated to protecting the financial system’s integrity. Every year, it hosts a Law Enforcement Awards ceremony at the Treasury’s headquarters. The program includes awards in six categories: suspicious activity reporting, transnational orga-
nized crime, transnational security threats, cyber threats, significant fraud, and third-party money laundering. (Six awards should make for a much shorter awards show than the Oscars, even after allowing time for the musical numbers!) This year, incoming Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin hosted the awards for the first time. (No
Uber has done to taxi cabs! So it shouldn’t come as a surprise that innovators have disrupted the neighborhood drug dealer, too. It all centered on a site called the Silk Road, where buyers and sellers connected to buy drugs like methamphetamines and marijuana. Buyers used “the onion router,” or TOR, to mask their IP addresses. They paid in bit-
Technology has disrupted all sorts of industries. Just look at what Uber has done to taxi cabs!
word on whether paparazzi quizzed him about his outfit, but we suspect not.) And when he opened the envelope for the cyber threat category, it was the IRS Criminal Investigation unit that took home the trophy, for its work leading the multi-agency task force that took down the Silk Road online marketplace. Technology has disrupted all sorts of industries. Just look at what
coin to hide their sources and even gave dealers “star ratings” like they would praise a local deli on Yelp. Unfortunately, the high-tech pharmaceutical retailers lining that silk road had to rely on the decidedly old-school Postal Service, founded back in 1775 by Benjamin Franklin, to deliver the goods. Postal inspectors discovered that as many as 435 suspicious packages had come from
the same place. The IRS-led task force then secured the necessary warrants, intercepted shipments, and made their case. Ironically, the targets pled guilty to drug crimes and money laundering, not tax crimes. That’s not unusual, though — IRS special agents regularly lend their expertise to non-tax investigations. It’s also worth mentioning that this was the first case in this particular district where money laundering charges were based on bitcoin transactions, which shows how law enforcement keeps up with developments in crime technology. The odds that you’ll find yourself on the receiving end of a FinCEN Law Enforcement Award are probably as long as your odds of someday accepting an Oscar. But if you haven’t done your planning, the odds are good that you’re paying more tax than you have to. So call us when you’re ready to pay less. You’ll be glad you did, even if there’s no red carpet waiting for you! 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.
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
Which one of these children needs Chai Lifeline? (Hint: They all do.) Chai Lifeline is renowned for the care and love it bestows on children fighting cancer. But that’s only the beginning. Chai Lifeline serves thousands of children with medical challenges that aren’t evident on the outside, everything from Crohns Disease to cystic fibrosis to heart disease and illnesses so rare only a handful of children have been diagnosed. And still, that’s only the beginning. Chai Lifeline includes siblings and parents, too, with programs geared towards the entire family. We care for more than 5,000 children and their families around the world and across the street. Chances are, you know them. They just don’t look sick.
Whenever, wherever we’re needed, Chai Lifeline is there.
Chai Lifeline. Comprehensive, compassionate, professional assistance for families facing illness, loss or trauma. 151 West 30th Street, New York, NY 10001 I (877) CHAI-LIFE I (212) 465-1300 I www.chailifeline.org
Regional Offices: Greater New York I Southeast I West Coast I Midwest I Mid-Atlantic I New Jersey I Canada I England I Israel I Belgium Hospital Support: Meals | Transportation Assistance | Hospital Visits | Respite Children’s Programs: Arts and Recreational Activities | After-school programs | Sibling Programs | Educational Assistance in Limudei Kodesh Counseling for patients and siblings | Camp Simcha/Camp Simcha Special Family Programs: Advocacy and Information | Retreats | Insurance Advocacy | Family Recreation | Family Counseling | Bereavement Services Community Programs: Project CHAI, support for schools, camps, and communities facing crisis or trauma.
133
134
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Life C ach
The Saga of the LB By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
T
here are some places that recycle. They even once started it in the Five Towns. We were all excited. We thought we’d be like the big boys – all selective and progressive about how we dispose of our trash. We bought all different color garbage bags and started a whole concerted effort to be eco-friendly. Then one day we noticed that the garbage men were just throwing everything into the same garbage truck. They were easing our consciences but that’s as far as their effort went. So, that dwindled very quickly. Still, when we visit other neighborhoods we notice a lot of effort and fanfare directed at just how to dispose of waste. That is assuming the household member is of the age or inclination to clean up after themselves at all. It presents as kind of an IQ test. There are these garbages that have multiple compartments. The problem is they have no actual note as to what goes in which. For the uninformed, it often becomes an equal distribution opportunity. Just give a little to each spot so no one compartment feels neglected or overburdened. The good news is it’s usually located in the kitchen so most people can be trained to attempt to use it. Now, here’s an activity that kind of presents a similar household challenge but usually is more difficult to get family members to embrace. It needs its own receptacle. It needs to be separated for maximum success.
And it requires someone’s effort to pick up after themselves, as well. The existence of the problem is noticed, often, simply by taking a glance near someone’s bed, although, there are often the more evident cases like those who utilize the drop-across-the-room trail, the bathroom-pile-up, or the a-hurricane-hit-in-here technique. The complaint many times is age- or gender-related. With guys, it could be the -continuous pair of socks, floated gingerly but dependably to the floor
However, in the bedroom, it’s location, location, location – if it could be trained to follow your kid around their room you’ve got a fighting chance. If throwing stuff in there could power up a cellphone, I’d say you’ve got a winner! Whoops, that might be too attractive –you could find your kid dumping their whole closet in there. On that note, there is the hamper abuser: at first blush it seems that they’re doing a great job keep-
You can get a kid to throw a round, orange object in a basket 100 times in a row but one pair of shorts, good luck to you!
at the side of the bed. With kids it may be more dramatic like, “I can’t even open the door to their room!” With females, you often hear: “She leaves her stuff everywhere in there, I can’t even find the sink!” The challenge is finding a place to put the hamper so that it inspires use. Some people build it right into the bathroom counter. Initially, this move is viewed as a stroke of genius and convenience, though eventually it often becomes a towel receptacle at best. After all, who’s getting undressed in there and then marching back to their room?
ing their room in order. But, with further investigation, one uncovers their thinking. “Why hang anything up? Just dump it all right in.” Dirty, clean, belt, shoes – whatever – the room appears clean and minimum effort! If you do somehow actually get someone to use their laundry basket it certainly seems it would take a miracle to get them to sort. But did you ever notice how camps have them trained? Kids are obsessive about taking their 2 laundry bags to camp. I’m not sure how or if they actually utilize them but no kid is getting on that bus unless they’ve got them packed in. It’s like
peer pressure or something, though, I’ve never noticed a kid feel compelled to bring them when they’ve slept over at my house. In fact, half of them don’t even feel motivated to take their laundry home with them. Why bother taking it home to drop on their floor when they’ve already accomplished it here at my house?! Cleaning, depositing, sorting, it appears a little easier to train us with trash, probably because no one needs to use the garbage again. But with clothing, I’m assuming the thinking goes I do need it again, so what’s the big difference where I take it from? You can get a kid to throw a round, orange object in a basket 100 times in a row but one pair of shorts, good luck to you! They’ve gotten men to the moon, phones to work everywhere, cars supposedly will be driving themselves soon, but to get a kid to use a laundry basket.....?! Therein lies the saga of the LB: the laundry basket. But alas, also the greatness! Progress is a foot all the time. We can comfort ourselves that the human spirit is still recognizable even to someone returning from hundreds of years ago. Kids will be kids! Some things never change! And whether it’s togas, tights or ties, if there’s a pile up of them on the floor, there’s usually a thriving kid around there somewhere. Rivki Rosenwald is a certified relationship counselor, and career and life coach. She can be contacted at 917-7052004 or rivki@rosenwalds.com
The Jewish Home | MAY 25, 2017
135
136
MAY 25, 2017 | The Jewish Home