November 15, 2012 by Yitzy Halpern

137 SPRUCE STREET

516-569-2662

— See page 9, 58 & 59—

Around the Community

THEJEWISHHOME A PUBLICATION OF THE FIVE TOWNS & QUEENS COMMUNITY november 15 - november 21, 2012 | Distributed

ly In The Five Towns, Queens & Brooklyn WeekWEK

Limud Hatorah and Chessed at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island During Super Storm Sandy Page 55

OHEL, Camp Kaylie and HAFTR Hold Free Carnival to Provide Entertainment for Children After the Storm Page 41

The Beauty of Bayswater How a Community Banded Together After the Storm to Light Up Their Lives and Homes Page 72

Hundreds Join to Rebuild Long Beach; A Concert Invigorates the City with Song Page 29

Our Sister, The Jew

Home is Where the Heart Is at Chabad

Page 70 Page 63

Page 65

Mesivta Ateres Yaakov Plows Through Hurricane Sandy

Page 51

Ahuvah Gray’s Journey of Inspiration Page 82

A Look Back at a Truly Unforgettable Shabbos Dirshu Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah

Page 31

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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Y C N E G R E EM L A E APP For RELIEF and RESCUE of the hundreds of families whose homes and livelihoods have been utterly destroyed or severely damaged in the Rockaways and the Five Towns. Millions of dollars worth of homes and possessions have been destroyed and urgently need to be replaced. FEMA and insurance coverage will NOT be enough in the overwhelming majority of cases. These families are counting on YOU,

ACHEINU KOL BEIS YISRAEL! PLEASE RESPOND IMMEDIATELY. Tax deductible contributions can be sent to:

ACHIEZER HURRICANE RELIEF FUND 334 Central Avenue Lawrence, NY 11559 donate online at www.achiezer.org Phone: 516-791-4444 Major credit cards accepted.

PHOTOS BY NAFTOLI GOLDGRAB

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

>>Letters to the Editor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 >>Community Community Happenings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 The Beauty of Bayswater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

>> News Global. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 National . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Odd-but-True Stories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

>> Israel Israel News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Combating Escalating Housing Prices. . . . . . . . . . . 90

>> People Our Sister, The Jew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 The Unlikely Heroes of Machal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

>>Parsha The Shmuz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

>> Jewish Thought The “I” of the Hurricane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 Ask the Rabbi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Extreme Chessed…The Five Towns/Far Rockaway Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

>> Parenting Social Smarts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

5 Dear Readers, The devastation that the Bayswater community experienced after Hurricane Sandy is unfathomable. So many homes were destroyed and people lost all of their possessions. Although the community’s belongings are broken, their spirit is vibrant and alive. After the storm, the Bayswater community banded together and has essentially become more whole than before. The amount of chessed and caring for one another is incredible. Young Israel of Bayswater has become the heart of compassion in the community. Thousands have been served meals, clothed and care for in the last weeks. Hundreds of volunteers have poured into town to offer assistance and guidance to the residents. Rabbi Yechiel Spero writes a moving piece on the indestructible spirit of the Bayswater community. Indeed, although much of the area may have been physically destroyed, it is the fire of compassion and strength that is most noticeable there. Many know Ahuva Gray from her book, My Sister, the Jew. Years ago, Ahuva, who was born a Baptist, converted to Judaism and is now living in Bayit Vegan and is a popular lecturer. Andrea Eller was able to spend some time with Ahuva, speaking with her about her journey from minister to Orthodox Jew. I found Andrea’s article to be intriguing and delightful. It is powerful to read about how someone rejected the beliefs that they were raised with to stand up for the truth. Thank G-d, most of us now have our lights on and are able to move back home. Many of our friends, though, are still in flux, forced to live by friends or relatives until their homes are habitable. I hope that soon we will all be able to rebuild our homes and live comfortably once again. As always, we love to hear from our readers. Please feel free to email me at editor@ fivetownsjewishhome.com. Shoshana

Bath Time Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

>>Health & Fitness I Want My Power Back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Yitzy Halpern Publisher

publisher@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Classifieds

What Hypnosis Is, by Dr. Deb Hirschhorn. . . . . . . 100

>> Food & Leisure

Nechama Wein Copy Editor

Rachel Bergida Berish Edelman Mati Jacobovits Design & Production

Editor

P.O. BOX 266 Lawrence, NY 11559 Phone | 516-734-0858 Fax | 516-734-0857

Friday, November 16 Parshas Toldos — Candle Lighting: 4:19 Shabbos Ends: 5:19 Rabbeinu Tam: 5:47

Coconut Chicken Soup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Travel: Connecticut. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

>> Lifestyles

Double Trouble. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Shabbos Z’manim

Recipes: The Aussie Gourmet:

Ask the Attorney. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

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Editorial Assistant

Recipes: A Slice of Something Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Savvy Savta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101

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Surviving the Sandy Five, by Aliza Beer. . . . . . . . .104

Yosef Feinerman

managing editor

fri. Nov 16

sat. Nov 17

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Your Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

>> Humor Centerfold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

>> Art From My Private Art Collection: Talents and Passions—Part II. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

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Notable Quotes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

Contents

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Letters to Dear Editor, I write this letter feeling proud to live in a community inhabited by many angels. I would like to point out one of those angels who is frankly my hero. While many of us “rightfully” were packing our bags to run away from “evil” Sandy, one man, with young kids of his own, dug in and looked Sandy right in the eyes. Our beloved Dr. Lightman, whose offices were destroyed by Sandy, didn’t only stay to care for his

the Editor Dear Readers, To all those who purchased generators—gasoline-powered: It is very important for you to follow manufacturer’s guidelines on storing your generator, including putting a chemical called STABLE or other similar product into the gas tank so the gasoline does not gum up. And oil generally has to be changed as per manufacturer’s requirements. Otherwise your generator may not start up if Chas V’Shalom it should be needed ag ain. Hashem Yimaleh Chasraichem. Sincerely, JOE, the Generator

patients but he made himself available in his house to anybody who needed medical care and made nothing of issues like payment or insurance. One specific incident stands out above all and I have attached a picture to illustrate. When a newborn baby had to be examined Dr. Lightman refused to allow the baby to be taken out in the postSandy snowstorm. Instead he braved the weather and paid a home visit. Needless to say, Dr. Lightman got really sick from

Readers Poll Compiled by Jannah Eichenbaum

Where did you go once Hurricane Sandy hit?

This was a letter from a Far Rockaway resident lauding Achiezer’s efforts after Hurricane Sandy that outing but he continued seeing patients in his house ever since. So, whether you are a patient or not, next time you see Dr. Lightman in shul or anywhere else go over and say, “Thank you for being the angel of our community!” Sincerely, A Grateful Parent in Lawrence

I stayed at home 12% I went to friends or relatives 47% I went to a shelter 2% I left town 39%

To the Editor, In the backdrop of flooded homes and destruction in Far Rockaway, an ice cream truck rode around today giving out free ice cream as we cleaned up, sorted out, and spoke to contractors electricians etc... This is written in honor of two of the many people who came to help and show their concern:

Let’s hear your voice! Next week’s question will be:

To Our Dear Chaverim, Reb Schneur and Reb Mordechai Yehudah, Although you call Brooklyn your home Through the streets of Far Rockaway daily you rode Your hot coffee and danishes warmed our soul Even tuna and egg salad on a fresh roll The ice cream for the kids the adults enjoyed too Your care and concern showed through and through I know the Mashgiach zt”l is smiling above Together with der Mama Zul Zein Gezunt, they instilled you with such love So the ocean-water will eventually dry out from our rug but we will never forget that “Nesius-Ol Hug” Your Chaver M’Neuray V’ad Atah, Binyomin

Where do you go for Thanksgiving?  We stay home  We go to friends/relatives for Thanksgiving dinner  We get ready for Black Friday shopping  We go on a short vacation

Send your answers to editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com.

Dear Family and Friends, As so many of you have called or e-mailed asking how we are doing, I thought it would be easiest to just send out this e-mail to all. Boruch Hashem, my family and I are relatively well, and our home and property narrowly escaped Hurricane Sandy’s wrath. The most major problem we have is that we have had no power for over a week. It is frustrating how dependent we are on that one aspect of life, because what this means is that we have no phone, no heat, no refrigeration, no oven, no washer/ dryer, and of course, no lights, which now that the clock has been changed is a very big deal. Over the last week, my family and I have relocated three times, spending the first several days in Waterbury, Connecticut with my brother Ezi and his wife Chava, one day split between my brother Ari and his wife Randi and my Tante Cheved and Uncle Nathan in Teaneck, and yesterday, as the lights came on for him, we moved in with Avi’s brother Yair and his wife Milka in Lawrence. Moving so many times is starting to take its toll on the children, not to mention their mother, as we pack, unpack, try to do some laundry, repack, and sleep in different beds. Worse is the feeling of being displaced, homeless, and a burden on others. Our hosts have been gracious, generous, and loving without exception, but there comes a time for everyone when one just wants to go HOME. B”H, a friend has now offered us a generator, and if we do not get power by tomorrow, we will move back into our house with the limited power of a generator. Despite all this, we are among the very lucky ones. We have been provided with wonderful accommodations by all

our hosts, have been served fantastic meals, and slept in warm, comfortable beds. Our property emerged almost completely unscathed. Our younger children have been having a great time playing with new sets of toys every few days and not having to go to school or do homework. When we get power back be”H, this will for the most part be behind us. However, the Far Rockaway/ Five Towns community as a whole is positively reeling. Many, many of my friends and relatives have sustained major damage to their homes. And not just basements. Many ground floors have been demolished as well – kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, home offices. A walk one block away from my home brings you to an area that literally looks like a war zone. Entire contents of houses: carpets, rugs, couches, ovens, chairs, tables are out on the street. Many of these homes are literally uninhabitable and dozens, if not hundreds, of us have found ourselves actually homeless. This is especially true of young families living in basement or ground floor apartments. Schools have been closed for a week and a half, with Darchei Torah, TAG High School, and Bnos Bais Yaakov grades 5 and up finally opening today, and the rest of TAG and BBY hopefully opening tomorrow. Even as they open, many teachers are living in other areas and cannot make it in due to the gas shortage or do not have child care as many of those who babysit in their homes have no heat or power. Also, in some cases, the generators have not been reliable and there have been intermittent blackouts. All that having been said, the “chesed machine” as my husband calls it, thanks in very great part to Achiezer – the FR/ FT community umbrella resource for just about any need – has been completely incredible. Meals are being served at four shuls to anyone who finds himself without a place to eat. (I will probably be taking my younger children for lunch today – the older ones are in school and all

the schools are serving lunch to all students – and possibly dinner too.) Cleanup crews have been helping people clean out their houses from the flood. (Many have dead fish in their basements (!) and there is sludge everywhere the ocean reached.) Shaimos trucks have been provided to accommodate the many, many seforim that have been destroyed. 50 racks of brand new clothing are being distributed on a no-questions-asked basis. A laundry service has even been provided where families were able to drop off laundry and pick it up clean within 48 hours. Thousands of Shabbos meals were distributed, with Achiezer even offering a drop off service for anyone who could not pick meals up. (And many fell into that category as the water shorted out many cars during the storm surge.) A fund has been set up to aid all those who are floundering due to the storm. And of course, as soon as someone gets power, he invites his neighbors to warm up, recharge his batteries – literal and figurative – and do laundry. So how are we feeling now? Firstly there is a feeling of incredible gratitude that Sandy’s wrath fell only on eitzim vaavanim as it were. As far as I know, the frum community did not sustain one casualty due to the storm; not even one injury. This is more amazing than it sounds as people were literally leaving their homes with their children on their shoulders as the water rose. At least one child that I know of fell in the water while holding a baby as they were exiting a car that had begun to float on the water. You cannot imagine what a neis it is that, in the pitch black and despite rush of water, they emerged OK. Also, throughout the frum community, there is an overwhelming desire to help. Even those who do not have power themselves are trying to get out there and help others. Even those who sustained damage are trying to help those who sustained more severe damage. The community of Silver Spring, Maryland had over 100 people (!!!) willing to host families for Shabbos, and they provided a bus for

Views expressed on the Letters to the Editor page do not necessarily reflect the views of The Jewish Home. Please send all correspondence to editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com.

the Editor families to come to them courtesy of the National Council of Young Israel, I believe. Personally, I feel a bit of survivor’s guilt. As some of you already know, I literally watched the ocean approach my house. “High tide” that night reached the street right in front of my house. Only two doors down from me, my neighbors lost two cars to the water. Three houses down they sustained significant damage. This is the case on many blocks. Whatever was in the water’s way was decimated. But an elevation of a scant two feet in many cases made all the difference. That is about all for now. There is more to say, but I think this gives a pretty good picture of the situation on the ground. Thanks again for caring. And a huge thank you to all our hosts, Ilana

This letter was sent to Chabad of the Five Towns after the hurricane. Dear Chabad Of The 5 Towns, Thank you, thank you for caring about us during a very frightening time in our lives—during and after Hurricane Sandy. You didn’t forget us for the 10 days that we were without electricity and heat (and even after). We lived in our dark and cold apartments in fear and you sent us hot meals, blankets, thermal socks and we were warmed with your love. You reached out to every one of us and we are very grateful. Thanks for all that you always do for the community and beyond. With admiration, The residents of the Hampshire House, Cedarhurst

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

Letters to

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

The Week Global Kuwait Celebrates Golden Jubilee in Style

The small country of Kuwait celebrated the golden jubilee anniversary of its constitution by illuminating the skies with a wondrous fireworks display over the capital of Kuwait City. The 77,282 fireworks made its way into the Guinness Book of World Records for the largest fireworks display ever. The country was celebrating 50

years since the late emir Sheikh Abdullah al-Salem al-Sabah announced that Kuwait had become the first Arab state in the Gulf to issue a constitution and a parliament. Before the celebrations, the current emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah, pleaded his country’s commitment to democracy and made a plea for unity. Within the past 50 years, Kuwait’s parliament has been dissolved on nine occasions; some articles of the constitution were frozen twice to suspend parliament for a total of 11 years. Currently, the government and its opposition are locked in one the worst standoffs in Kuwait’s history. The opposition claims that the government institution of a recent amendment will influence the December 1st elections.

Jihad Leader Says to Destroy the Sphinx and Pyramids in Egypt Murgan Salem al-Gohary has urged followers to destroy the Sphinx and the

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In News Giza Pyramids in Egypt. He claims that these monuments are idols and are worthy of destruction. This Egyptian jihad leader, who has ties to the Taliban, was twice-sentenced under former President Hosni Mubarak for inciting violence.

“All Muslims are charged with applying the teachings of Islam to remove such idols, as we did in Afghanistan when we destroyed the Buddha statues,” he said on Saturday during a television interview on an Egyptian private channel watched by Egyptian and Arab audiences. “G-d ordered Prophet Mohammed to destroy idols. When I was with the Taliban we destroyed the statue of Buddha [in Afghanistan], something the government failed to do.” His comments came a day after thousands of ultraconservative Islamists gathered in Tahrir Square to call for the strict application of Sharia law in the new constitution. The vice president of Tunisia’s Ennahda party, Sheikh Abdel Fattah Moro, called the live program and told Gohary that famous historic military commander Amr ibn al-Aas did not destroy statues when he conquered Egypt. “So who are you to do it?” he wondered. “The Prophet destroyed the idols because people worshiped them, but the Sphinx and the Pyramids are not worshiped.” In recent months, fears have surfaced that the ultra-conservative Salafi political powers may soon wish to debate new guidelines over Egyptian antiquities. Many hope that Egypt’s new President Mohammed Mursi will help usher better preservation of Egypt’s proud cultural heritage. Egyptian officials have recently announced the country will reveal more of its ancient buried treasures.

Norwegian Murderer Requests Better Accommodations Anders Behring Breivik is used to the good life and he’s not afraid to de-

mand it…even in prison. Breivik, the Norwegian extremist convicted of the coldly premeditated murders of 77 people in 2011, is serving a 21-year sentence in a maximumsecurity prison outside Oslo. Recently he announced that his accommodations don’t exactly tickle his fancy. Breivik addressed penal officials in a 27-page letter requesting more comfortable handcuffs, a new pen, and a room with a view. He is not satisfied with his threecell suite with a television and exercise equipment. He wrote in the letter that he is alone with his thoughts for “23 hours and 55 minutes” on a typical day and only has opportunity to converse with his watch guards and would enjoy more social interactions. Officials said that he is denied computer and Internet access to prevent him from spreading his ideology of racial hatred.

“Such treatment isn’t human,” said Tord Jordet, a lawyer for Mr. Breivik. He complained that he isn’t permitted to keep hydrating skin cream in his cell. His coffee gets cold too quickly because he does not have a warmer and his handcuffs cut into his wrists. His calls and mail are censored which Mr. Jordet called a breech in his client’s freedom of speech. (This is exactly the point of jail! A prisoner is no longer entitled to the freedoms of the world.) “I highly doubt that there are worse detention facilities in Norway,” Mr. Breivik wrote. The murderer’s 21-year sentence is the country’s maximum, and he is considered the most heinous offender in modern Scandinavian history. Mr. Breivik confessed to setting off bombs in downtown Oslo in July 2011 before shooting dozens of people at a summer youth camp run by the Labor Party. He said the killings were intended to protect Norway from Muslims and multiculturalism. Someone please inform this heartless murderer that killing people isn’t exactly fair treatment to humans. Continued on page 13

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

RSVP at Tiferet.org/openhouse

Pakistan Declares Malala Day

Violence in Sao Paulo

Malala Yousafzai is a teenage activist who courageously rallied for the rights of girls’ education in Pakistan. About a month ago, Taliban hit men attempted to murder the young teen. Fortunately, the 15-year-old survived. Her bravery and courage have captured hearts around the world prompting the UN to declare Saturday a “global day of action” for her. In her honor, Pakistan marked “Malala Day” as a global day of support for the teenager. Pakistani prime minister Raja Pervez Ashraf saluted Malala’s courage and urged his countrymen to stand against the extremist groups that orchestrated her attack. “The outpouring of sympathy for Malala and abhorrence over the cowardly act demonstrate the determination of the Pakistani society not to allow a handful of radicalized elements to dictate their agenda,” he said. However, her schoolmates were afraid to honor her publicly out of fear of being Taliban’s next target. “We held a special prayer for Malala today in our school assembly and also lit candles,” school principal, Mariam Khalid, said. “We did not organize any open event because our school and its students still face a security threat.” The Taliban has clearly stated that they will attack any woman who stands against their beliefs. Despite the fear and the very real danger, some students in Mingora were determined to speak out and vowed to follow Malala’s brave example. “Malala is a good friend of mine. She is brave and has honor and whoever attacked her did a terrible thing,” Asma Khan, 12, said. “After the attack on her and her injuries, we have now more courage to study and now we will fulfill her mission to spread education everywhere.” Nearly 100,000 people have signed an online petition calling for Malala to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

South America’s biggest city has faced excessive crime in the last two weeks. On November 12, Brazilian media reported that at least 31 people have been murdered in Sao Paulo since November 9. Within the last two weeks, about 140 people have been killed. A police spokeswoman says the reported figure is close to accurate but there is not yet an official number. Police believe that a powerful drug gang is responsible for the wave of violence. They say it’s in response to a crackdown on the First Capital Command drug gang, which was allegedly behind a surge of violence that paralyzed the city in 2006. This violent outbreak has prompted schools to close early, municipal bus routes to be changed, and street demonstrations to be held. Since the beginning of the year, more than 90 police officials have been murdered in Sao Paulo. Authorities blame the gang for those deaths as well. State and federal police say they are trying to combine forces to create a new intelligence agency to counter the resurgent threat posed by organized crime.

No More Fat Tax in Denmark

Just about one year ago, Denmark introduced a fat tax in attempt to control Danes’ eating habits. According to

In News the Danish National Health and Medicines Authority, 47 percent of Danes are overweight and 13 percent are obese. The fat tax was levied on all products containing saturated fats including butter, milk, pizza, oils, meats and precooked foods. Denmark was the first country in the world to impose such a tax and now they are humbly agreeing that the plan was not all that effective. “The fat tax and the extension of the chocolate tax – the so-called sugar tax – has been criticized for increasing prices for consumers, increasing companies’ administrative costs and putting Danish jobs at risk,” the Danish tax ministry said in a statement. “At the same time it is believed that the fat tax has, to a lesser extent, contributed to Danes travelling across the border to make purchases,” it added. “Against this background, the government and the (far-left) Red Green Party have agreed to abolish the fat tax and cancel the planned sugar tax.” “Now we need to try to do something else to address public health,” Food Minister Mette Gjerskov said.

Thousands of Syrians Flee Country

There seems to be power in numbers or at least bravery in numbers… Last Friday, after rebels seized a border town, thousands of Syrians fled their country in one of the largest refugee exoduses of the 20-month civil war. The U.N. reported that about 11,000 refugees fled the land in 24 hours, mostly to Turkey. The influx caused panic in Ankara, which is concerned whether or not it is capable and has the resources to accommodate these large numbers. They are trying to arrange a buffer zone

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The Week to be set up inside Syria where refugees could be housed. There are still many Syrians stuck in the country. An estimated four million people still need humanitarian aid by early next year when the country is in the grip of the cold winter months. John Ging, director of operations at the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said, “Every day our humanitarian colleagues on the ground are engaging with people who are ever more desperate, ever more fearful for their lives and for the lives of their families because of this conflict,” Ging said at a news conference. “Since this crisis has begun we have not been able to keep pace with the increasing need.” Around 38,000 people have been killed since the revolt against President Bashar Assad erupted nearly 20 months ago.

Israel Israel Ranks 40th Most Prosperous Country

The London-based Legatum Institute has released its annual Prosperity Index, which ranks 142 countries based on eight main parameters: economy, entrepreneurship and opportunity, governance, education, health, safety and security, personal freedom, and social capital. Israel ranks 40 overall on the list. The first 30 countries on the list are considered high ranking countries, the next 41 are upper-middle ranking countries, the next 41 are lower-middle ranking countries, and the last 30 are considered low ranking countries. Israel falls between high ranking and upper-middle

In News ranking. Israel was ranked 29th in economy, 31st in entrepreneurship, 28th in governance, 33rd in education, 35th in health, and achieved its highest tanking in social capital at 22nd place. The country received low rankings in security at 115th and personal freedom at 118th.

Gaza Conflict Grows After militants blew up an Israeli army jeep with an anti-tank missile wounding four soldiers, Israel retaliated by killing four Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. In response to the retaliation, Palestinian fighters fired rockets into southern Israel. Then, an Israeli air strike targeted a rocket crew, killing a Palestinian militant. This escalating fight is a domino effect. Palestinian militants promised to take revenge for the deaths of the four civilians and the 25 wounded, and Israel warned residents of neighborhoods near the Gaza border to stay close to blast shelters in case of a rocket salvo. Gaza’s terror groups issued a uniform statement threatening retaliation, vowing that “Israel will pay for its crimes” and saying that they will “coordinate their response to the Zionists’ massacre in Gaza.” While Palestinians claim that children were wounded in the Israel attacks, a rocket launched by Palestinians from the Gaza strip struck a home in Southern Israel. Over 30 Qassams, mortar shells and Grad rockets were fired from northern Gaza. Home Front Defense Minister Avi Dichter commented on the escalation in the south, saying that Israel “must reestablish its military deterrence in Gaza.” He added: “Israel must rip the mask off [Palestinian President Mahmoud] Abbas’ face, as he continues to shrug off any responsibility for the terror coming from Gaza.”

Israel Strikes Back at Syria After an errant mortar shell landed near an Israeli military installation in the Golan Heights on Sunday, Israel was forced to fire warning shots into Syria. This incident was a striking reminder of the precarious situation along the border. Israel also threatened tougher retaliation if attacks persist. For the past 19 months, Syria has been entangled in unrest and there is

concern that the struggle could spill across the border. Although President Bashar Assad has not been a friend to Israel, and has provided shelter for many of Israel’s enemies, the border between the two countries has been kept relatively quiet. In response to the attacks on the weekend, Lt. Col. Avital Leibovich, a military spokeswoman, said, “We understand this was a mistake and was not meant to target Israel, and then that is why we fired a warning shot in retaliation.” The Israeli military also said it filed a complaint through United Nations forces operating in the area, stating that “fire emanating from Syria into Israel will not be tolerated and shall be responded to with severity.” Yiftah Shapir, an analyst at the Institute for National Security Studies, a Tel Aviv think tank, said neither Israel nor Syria has an interest in allowing the hostilities to spin out of control. “I see the warning fire as an attempt to prevent any escalation,” he said. “In Israel, no one wants a war with Syria or even an attempt to intervene in the events. The only thing that worries us is a spillover by this form or another. So I think it’s a warning: ‘Take care.’“ On Sunday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his Cabinet that Israel is “closely monitoring” the border with Syria and is “ready for any development.”

lyzed. Dr. Yaakov Susna is the chief of radiological imaging at Hadassah and leads the association. He said that most emergency rooms have a CT scan and some 30% of the patients passing through an ER have a CT scan for one reason or another. On average, there is an annual increase of 15% in the number of CTs, MRIs and ultrasounds administrated which means that there is a strong need for more radiologists to read the results of these exams. Over recent years, MRI units have been added to minimize delays in scheduling an exam, however the Ministry of Health has not increased the budget for radiologists. Patients are now able to take the exam without delay but the results sit and wait for a qualified physician to read them. This is a shortage that can affect quality of life.

Palestinians Expect European Union Support on UN Bid

Israel Suffers Shortage of Radiologists

According to the Israel Association of Radiologists, there is a serious shortage of physicians specializing in radiology in Israel. There are currently 434 radiologists living in Israel while the estimated need is 666. The effects of this shortage may delay diagnoses in patients, which is a scary reality being that an early diagnoses can make recovery more likely. Due to the shortage, some patients need to wait weeks for their results to be ana-

Palestinians believe that when they propose a bid to the UN later this month to upgrade their status to that of non-member state, 12 European Union countries will support them. “In internal discussions, five nations have openly said they will support us,” a Palestinian official said. The official added that based on conversations, he expects an additional seven European Union countries to take this stand as well. There are 27 member states in total in the European Union. The Palestinians already have support for the resolution, which they intend to bring to the UN General Assembly. But they feel their efforts would carry more weight if European and other Western nations support them. US Ambassador to Israel Daniel Shapiro told reporters last week that the U.S. opposed the move. State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said these efforts won’t do much for the

In News Palestinians. “Action of this kind is not going to take them any closer to having what they really want and need, which is a functioning, independent state living at peace with Israel,” Nuland said. She added that the US has been speaking with the Palestinian Authority about this constantly. “We’ve been making this case for a long time and will continue to do so,” she said. Nabil Sha’ath, a top Fatah official, accused the US and Israel on Saturday of “threatening and blackmailing” the PA leadership over the statehood bid, saying Washington was threatening to cut off financial aid to the PA and to close the PLO office in the US capital, while Israel was talking about withholding tax revenues belonging to the Palestinians in the West Bank. “These are illegal, unjust and immoral threats,” Sha’ath said in comments published by a Saudi newspaper. “No country is entitled to deprive our people of its right to self-determination and the declaration of a state.” Foreign Minister Avigdor Liberman held meetings in Vienna with Israeli ambassadors to discuss how to make European governments aware that the

bid will be harmful to the peace process. There were rumors circulating last week that the PA is considering postponing the move, but President Mahmoud Abbas denied those allegations. Nabil Abu Rudaineh, a spokesman for Abbas, said the decision already had been taken by the Palestinian leadership and Arab countries. “The decision has been taken and there will be no backtracking on it,” Abu Rudaineh said. “We will go the UN to ask for a state within the [pre-]1967 borders with east Jerusalem as its capital.” He stated only then would the Palestinians be ready to recommence peace talks with Israel.

Israel Disappointed Over Obama’s Reelection Israeli government officials were obviously disappointed over Barack Obama’s victory in the US presidential election. However, they remain determined to maintain Israel-US ties.

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Deputy Knesset Speaker Danny Danon sent his congratulations to Obama, but not without mentioning that Obama had not been good to Israel during his first term. “It is my hope, and that of many Israelis, that the president resets his course relating to Israel and our region for the next four years,” Danon said. “Rather than dictating illadvised policies that endanger the wellbeing of America’s only true ally in the Middle East, now is the time for President Obama to return to the wise and time-honored policy of ‘zero daylight’ between our respective nations.” Danon feels that Obama is overdue to visit Israel, a trip that he noticeably avoided during his first term. Knesset Member Arieh Eldad of the National Union Party insisted Obama was “the most hostile president to Israel in recent decades” and warned that his reelection would not be beneficial. As Obama said himself via Twitter, “Four more years.”

National The USA: Proud Land of Immigrants Many immigrants immigrate to the U.S. in pursuit of the American dream and for better career opportunities. Now immigrants make up 13% of the U.S. population. Oftentimes, immigrants prove to be hard-working and determined to succeed which may explain why one in every six small businesses is owned by an immigrant, according to a recent report by the Fiscal Policy Institute’s Immigration Research Initiative. Professional and business services, such as waste-disposal services and office administration and cleaning, boast the largest number of immigrant business owners, followed by retail, construction, educational and social services, and leisure and hospitality industries.

“Immigrants are such a varied group with people from countries all around the world that have a wide range of skill sets…and these [fields] have always been a natural fit” both locally and nationally, says David Dyssegaard Kallick, director of FPI’s Immigration Research Initiative. Kiplinger put together a list of seven immigrant entrepreneurs that come from diverse backgrounds and have made millions in various industries. Coming in at the top spot is Josie Natori, a 64-year-old woman from the Philippines, who is the founder and CEO of the Natori Company. She moved to Westchester, N.Y. in 1964 to attend college and then worked on Wall Street and for Merrill Lynch. She became a U.S. citizen in 1974. She describes her success. “While I loved the [corporate] culture, I also had a very strong desire to build something myself,” she says. In 1977, she launched her high-end women’s sleepwear company originally sold in Bloomingdales. In 2011, Natori teamed up with Target for a budget-friendly line, and her company generated $150 million in retail sales that year alone. Mrs. Natori is proud of who she is and where she came from. “Some people may see their immigrant status as an obstacle,” she says. “I have always viewed it as one of my biggest assets. Natori is unique in the design world, because of its East-meets-West aesthetic. All of that is due to my background and heritage.” Arnold Schwarzenegger hogs the number three spot. He was born in Austria and is famous for his stint as an actor and governor of California. Schwarzenegger immigrated to the United States in 1968 at age 21. Today, Schwarzenegger is worth an estimated $300 million. At number five is Sergey Brin from Russia who is co-founder and director of special projects at Google. Brin’s family left Moscow in 1979 after a rise in anti-Semitism when Sergey was just six-years-old. His family settled in Maryland and Brin attended University of Maryland for mathematics and computer science. For graduate school, Brin attended Stanford University where he met his future partner in business, Larry Page. The two are the brainchildren behind Google which they launched in 1998. Brin became a billionaire overnight when the company went public in 2004. He is now estimated to be worth $22.5 billion.

In News Employees’ Hours to Be Cut Because of Obama’s Reelection

Obamacare mandates that employees that work more than 30 hours per week be covered under their employer’s health insurance plan. Papa John’s CEO John Schnatter plans on passing the costs of healthcare reform to his business onto his workers. As a result of Obama’s reelection, Schnatter said he will likely reduce workers’ hours. Schnatter originally made headlines in August when he told shareholders that the cost of a Papa John’s pizza will increase between 11 and 14 cents due to

Obamacare. “I got in a bunch of trouble for this,” he said, referring to the comments he made in the summer. “That’s what you do, is you pass on costs. Unfortunately, I don’t think people know what they’re going to pay for this.” Schnatter refused to take an official stance and say whether he is in support of or against the Affordable Care Act. He did say, “The good news is 100 percent of the population is going to have health insurance.” Many other food chains have been reducing hours in anticipation of the legislation.

Company Blames Obama for Lay-offs In related news, it seems like Obama is bad for business. One hundred and fifty miners have been laid off from a Utah coal company, and the boss is blaming it on President Barack Obama. Two days after Obama’s reelection, the company made the announcement in a short statement. The layoffs at the West Ridge Mine are effective immedi-

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The Week ately, according to UtahAmerican Energy Inc., a subsidiary of Murray Energy Corp.

In News

The statement explained that the layoffs are required because of the president’s “war on coal.” That slogan was used regularly during the presidential election by Murray Energy CEO Robert Murray, who was a devoted supporter of Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney. In its statement, UtahAmerican Energy blames the Obama administration for introducing policies that will close down “204 American coal-fired power plants by 2014” and for harshly reducing the market for coal.

“There is nowhere to sell our coal, and when we can, the market prices are far lower,” the statement said. “Without markets, there can be no coal mines and no coal jobs.” Coal demand from U.S. power generation companies is down 17 percent this year, according to the federal Energy Information Administration’s most recent figures. That’s due in large part to low market prices for natural gas, and has the EIA forecasting the lowest coal consumption in at least two decades by the nation’s electricity industry.

will go into effect in 2014 and is not included in these figures.

Majority of American Muslims Voted for Obama

Record Medicaid The Council on American-Islamic off to a the good Get off Relations toGet a good start by ofstart (CAIR) released results Enrollees an informal exit poll that indicates more getting the right mattre the right mattress. Next timegetting you are than 85.7% of American Muslim voters

standing in a crowded place, take a look at the five people around you. Chances are one out of every five of them is enrolled in Medicaid. In 2011, a record 70.4 million people were enrolled in the Medicaid healthcare program for the poor in fiscal year 2011, according to government figures. That’s about 22% of the population. Figures provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the agency that oversees the health care entitlements, reveal an ever-expanding Medicaid program. In just six years from 2005 to 2011, enrollees grew by more than 10 million; jumping from 60.1 million in 2005 to 70.4 million in 2011. Recently, the Obamacare health reform law expanded Medicaid eligibility to those living on 133 percent of the federal poverty level. The poverty level annual income for a household of four is $23,000 – 133 percent of that, in terms of annual income for a family of four, would be $30,590. So generally any family making under that amount will be eligible. That expansion 1.

voted for President Barack Obama. In 2008, a similar poll was conducted thatup Cle 1. Pick showed that 89% of American Muslims 2. Grocery Or cast a ballot for Obama. 3. Asdfasdfs

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CAIR conducted the informal survey of 650 American Muslim voters; just 4.4% of respondents claimed they voted for Romney. Based on the survey, 95.5 percent of the Muslim voters went to the polls on November 6. In terms of party affiliation: 41.5 % said they consider themselves Democrats, 40.6% consider themselves politically independent, and only 7.4% percent said they are Republican. “The fact that more than 95 percent of Muslim respondents went to the polls is a clear indication that they are fully participating in our nation’s political process and are part of the fabric of America,” Nihad Awad, executive director of CAIR said in a press release announcing the poll results.

Obama Wins Most of the Nations’ Wealthiest Counties Surprisingly, President Barack Obama was picked over multimillionaire businessman Mitt Romney in eight of the nation’s 10 wealthiest counties. The 10 richest counties accounted for 1,337,700 votes, or about 1.1 percent of the national popular vote. In the richest county, Massachusetts’ Nantucket County, where average annual household income is over $137,000, Obama won by 63 percent to Romney’s 36 percent. The richest county in Romney’s home state is also where, just prior to accepting the Republican nomination, the former Massachusetts governor held a $75,000-perperson dinner fundraiser. In California’s Marin County, the president won 74 percent to 23 percent. In Marin, the average annual household income is $128,544. The two richest counties where Romney won were in New Jersey: adjacent Hunterdon and Morris counties in the northern part of the state. Romney won in Morris by 55 percent to 44 percent and in Hunterdon by 59 percent to 40 percent. I wonder if they’ll be happy they voted for him after he institutes a millionaire tax.

Texas Citizens Sign Petition to Secede from the U.S.

from Arlington, Texas and states that the economic woes and the condition of the Texas economy make it feasible to secede. Many petitions are submitted on whitehouse.gov but only those that obtain the required amount of signatures are officially reviewed by “appropriate policy experts.” Petitions need 25,000 signatures within 30 days to be eligible. This petition received 34,000 signatures by Monday evening. Other similar petitions have been filed from other states including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Tennessee. They did not obtain the required number of signatures for an official White House response. The high number of petitions is likely a result of voters’ unhappiness with the recent elections. This is probably the case in Texas, where 57 percent of the state voted for Republican Mitt Romney. Catherine Frazier, press secretary for Texas Gov. Rick Perry, said that the governor “believes in the greatness of our Union and nothing should be done to change it. But he also shares the frustrations many Americans have with our federal government. Now more than ever our country needs strong leadership from states like Texas, that are making tough decisions to live within their means, keep taxes low and provide opportunities to job creators so their citizens can provide for their families and prosper.”

Flying the Flag in Protest of Obama

This week, an online petition requesting permission for the state of Texas to withdraw from the United States reached the required amount of signatures for it to generate an official response from The White House. The petition asks the Obama administration to “peacefully grant the State of Texas to withdraw from the United States of America and create its own new government.” It was created by “Micah H.”

In protest of last week’s election results, a man who served seven and a half years in the Navy is flying his American flag upside down. “Under the conditions normally set for the military at sea, if you fly your flag upside down on a ship, it means you’re in distress...I think this country is in distress,” Philip Hoezel said. When Hoezel heard the Barack Obama was re-elected, he raised his flag upside down at his Florida home. It was on Veterans Day that neighbors took notice and some got offended. “It’s very disturbing...you know 26 years in the Navy, current Navy guy and

In News I thought it was an accident,” says Mike Walter, who lives down the street from Hoezel. “Then I did a little research and I realized people are doing this in protest and I just can’t believe that on Veterans Day you would be so petty as to fly your flag upside down.”

think there’s a lot more positive ways to express it. I don’t think that’s really helping anyone and I think it’s probably hurting a lot of people’s feelings.” But Hoezel says that’s not his intention. As a veteran, he says he respects the holiday and the country.

Portraits for Obama Officials Cost Taxpayers a Pretty Penny But Hoezel says this is his first amendment right of freedom of expression. “I figure if they can burn the flag, if they can spit on it, if they can put it down as a doormat, why can’t I fly it upside down?” he said. He plans on flying it this way for the next four years, as long as Obama is in office. Another neighbor, Deb Hand, says that there are other ways to express your outrage at the president’s reelection. “I

A long-time tradition shared amongst Democrats and Republicans is raising eyebrows. In the past, when administration officials have left office, a portrait has been commissioned of them and hangs in their perspective agencies. Multiple agencies have been commissioning artists to paint official paintings of Cabinet secretaries and other top appointees. Generally, this is done when these officials have finished their tenure in the administration, but there is no word whether they are on their way out.

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The Week generations to see how we live now, and it’s really a tribute as well as part of a person’s legacy,” she said. “It’s a tremendous privilege to paint a portrait of somebody as accomplished as these people,” she said, adding that agencies have made a “concerted effort to be cost conscious” over the past few years. But David Williams, president of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, a watchdog group, wonders why the government is paying top dollar to commission portraits of officials that the public won’t even see or care to see. “It’s not like people are going to be lining up for an exhibit, ‘HUD Secretaries Through the Years,’” Mr. Williams said. “And just because it’s a Washington tradition doesn’t mean they have to keep doing it.” Steve Ellis, spokesman for the D.C.based Taxpayers for Common Sense, said official portraits of presidents make sense, “but the further you move down the food chain, it’s less understandable.” “It’s preposterous to think that these are all in the public domain for the art-

The Environmental Protection Agency spent nearly $40,000 on a portrait of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, while a painting of Air Force Secretary Michael B. Donley will cost $41,200, according to federal purchasing records. The price tag for a 3-by4-foot oil portrait of Agriculture Department Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack: $22,500. All told, the government has paid out at least $180,000 for official portraits since last year. USDA spokesman Justin DeJong is mum about whether Vilsack is planning on leaving the administration or not. “Consistent with previous administrations, the department has commissioned a portrait to be unveiled at some point following Secretary Vilsack’s tenure. USDA solicited bids for the portrait and selected the lowest of five bids.” Ann Fader is the president of Portrait Consultants in Washington. She said that many portraits are commissioned in advance since it takes eight to fourteen months to complete these paintings. “These are done for future

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In News enjoying public to review the merits of portraiture,” he said. “It’s about stroking egos.”

CIA Director Resigns

CIA Director David Petraeus resigned on Friday. The decorated general offered President Obama his resignation during a meeting on Thursday and Obama accepted. “By any measure, through his lifetime of service, David Petraeus has made our country safer and stronger,” Obama said of the four-star general, who led American forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. Petraeus was appointed CIA director in April 2011, replacing Leon Panetta, who moved to the Pentagon to become defense secretary. This has been a personal decision for Petraeus and events in his personal life lead to the resignation. “In his mind, in his views, with his code of ethics and morals, he did a very dishonorable thing,” a U.S. military official said. “This had nothing to do with Benghazi, nothing to do with his relationship with the White House.”

Philadelphia School District Borrows $300M The Philadelphia School Reform Commission moved to borrow $300 million to pay teachers, heat buildings, and buy books for the rest of the school year. Chairman Pedro Ramos made it clear that the SRC’s was in a really rough spot and that the state of its finances constituted “dire circumstances” for the district. “I couldn’t be more unhappy that we’re in a situation where it’s necessary to do a borrowing for the purposes of merely paying our bills,” Ramos said.

The bond sale the SRC unanimously authorized at a special meeting comes with a hefty price tag: an additional $22 million in debt service annually for 20 years, beginning in 2014. It’s the second time in ten years that the district has had to borrow money to keep schools open. “Some people think the solution is that we can just keep borrowing, and we really can’t,” Ramos said. Because it represents nonrecurring revenue, this bond sale puts the district hundreds of millions in the hole for the 2013-14 school year, just three months into the current school term. The district’s current spending is not sustainable and needs to be evaluated, analyzed, and re-budgeted. “Extremely difficult” choices are approaching quickly, SRC member Wendell Pritchett said, and “we’re going to have to make them. We don’t have any choice.” One of the toughest and biggest decisions is going to be which 40 of the district’s 200-plus schools should be shut down.

Walmart Employees Organize Strike for Black Friday While shoppers prepare for Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving which is the biggest shopping day of the year, employees are plotting and planning as well. Employees of America’s largest retailer, Walmart, are planning to strike when stores open at 8pm on Thanksgiving. Walmart employees are trying to organize the strike through online forums. The main reason for the strike is unsafe work conditions and low wages. In Nebraska’s Supercenter, the average employee earns $7.65. Walmart is the biggest private employer in the world. It is estimated that Walmart employs 2.1 million people. In October, for the first time in the company’s 50-year history, more than 70 workers at multiple Los Angelesarea Walmart stores walked off the job, even though their jobs are not protected by an official union. The strike had a ripple effect, causing strikes in 12 other cities. “Making Change at Walmart,” which organized previous demonstrations, has over 25,000 supporters on Facebook. Continued on page 24

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Rabbi Paysach Krohn is, indeed, a legend in the world of Torah literature, a beloved author and speaker whose collections of true stories have broken all sales records. More than just a storyteller, Rabbi Krohn interjects his own warm and penetrating comments, layering a great story with meaning and giving it the power to transform our lives. Rabbi Krohn crisscrosses the planet, finding the unusual, the unique, and the breathtaking. In this brand-new collection, we hear amazing true stories that took place in Warsaw and Williamsburg, Chicago and Vilna, in the tree-lined Catskills and a small village in Greece.

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

New from

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

The Week More Women on the Road

Attention husbands, brothers, and fathers: this may come as a real shock to you. (Make sure you’re sitting.) More women than men now have driver’s licenses in the United States. This is a reversal of a longtime stat. Transportation researchers say this is likely to have safety and economic implications. If current trends continue, the gap will only widen. The share of teens and young adults of both genders with driver’s licenses is declining, but the decline is greater for young men, according to a study by the University

of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute. The study looked at gender trends in driver’s licenses between 1995 and 2010. “The changing gender demographics will have major implications on the extent and nature of vehicle demand, energy consumption, and road safety,” predicted Michael Sivak, co-author of the study. Women are more likely than men to purchase smaller, safer and more fuel-efficient cars; to drive less; and to have a lower fatality rate per distance driven, he said. Over the 15 years the study covered, the share of men ages 25 to 29 years old with driver’s licenses dropped 10.6 percent. The share of women of the same age with driver’s licenses declined by about half that amount, 4.7 percent. There has been much speculation about the sudden decline. Sivak said that perhaps it’s because of excessive Internet usage which can reduce a person’s need for personal contact. In addition, almost anything can be purchased online so people don’t need to rely on driving to restock on toothpaste or order socks. A previous study by the

In News transportation institute published earlier this year found that countries that have higher Internet usage also have a lower licensure rate of teens and young adults. “There is some suggestive evidence that Internet contact is reducing the need for personal contact,” he said.

been compared to Spanish manchego cheese, but with a deeper, richer taste. Manchego is available in British supermarkets for a relatively cheap £13 per kilo which is about $20. If you’re on a budget, manchego is certainly the way to go.

That’s Odd Most Expensive Cheese Say cheese! The world’s most expensive cheese will cost you about $1,270 for a small wedge weighing one kilogram. This cheese, known as pule, is produced on a donkey farm in Serbia and requires around 25 liters of fresh donkeys’ milk to make a single kilogram which may explain its high price tag. This is sure to get food connoisseurs with expensive palates salivating. The white, crumbly cheese has

The reserve also produces bottled donkeys’ milk, which is said to have been a legendary beauty secret of Cleopatra, an Egyptian queen famous for bathing daily in milk. It’s all about marketing! Continued on page 27

25 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Motorcyclists Rob Mall Jewelry Store Tuesday morning started as an ordinary day in London’s Brent Cross Mall. The mundane scene suddenly became movie-esque when fifteen minutes after the doors opened, a pack of six motorcycles stormed through the second floor. The drivers were dressed in all black and were wielding axes and bats. The thieves’ destination was jewelry store Fraser Hart, where they snatched Cartier and Rolex watches after smashing windows to get inside. The Metropolitan Police estimate their haul to be worth more than 2 million British pounds which is about $3.1 million. Witnesses reported that the robbers were a bit clumsy and accidently dropped some of their loot as they sped away from the scene. No one was injured and police are continuing to investigate the crime.

Man Climbs Skyscraper with Prosthetic Leg

Zac Vawter has his leg amputated but that didn’t stop him from climbing 103 floors of one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Vawter was wearing a prosthetic leg controlled by his mind on Sunday when he participated in “SkyRise Chicago.” The charity event raises funds for the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. The 31-year-old made history by becoming the first person to climb 103 floors with a bionic leg. The event also marked the bionic leg’s first test in the public eye. As Vawter thought about climbing stairs, the motors, chains and belts in his leg synchronized the movements of its ankle and knee. Researchers cheered him on and noted the smart leg’s performance. Institute officials say the leg and its

In News climber held up “fantastically.” Vawter finished the climb in about 45 minutes.

Mailman Walks Right Past Dead Man It’s hard to imagine that this really happened. Dale Porch was dropped off at home last week after working the night shift for the Regional Transportation District. Unfortunately, the Denver man never made it inside and collapsed near his front door. Family members claim that hours later, a mail carrier walked by the body to deliver the mail but did nothing to help. The U.S. Postal Service is defending the mail carrier saying he thought it was a mannequin left over from holiday decorations, however they did temporarily suspend him from his normal route. A Postal Service spokesman called it an unfortunate situation that probably would not have happened any other time of the year. An autopsy report is pending.

KOLLEL CHATZOS

the Segulah with the Power of Torah

Toldos

RESCUE MY CHILD! Our thoughts are still unhinged, after the difficult period we’ve just been through, but as a token of appreciation, we are faxing this letter to you, the wonderful Torah learners, who got up each night to pray and learn while mentioning our son’s name. Unfortunately, it was destined for us to suffer indescribable pain and fear as our dear child disappeared from his yeshiva. We found out that he had gotten to a really dangerous area, one that could harm him both physically and spiritually. We immediately called your office, feeling that “Kollel Chatzos” would be the right messengers for our son’s sake. We asked that they beg fervently that our son should see the light, with Hashem’s help. We

also

requested

CHATZOS PARTNERSHIP Become a partner And experience miracles! SEGULAH OF KETORAS The only Segulah written in the Torah! MISHNAYAS & SHAS According to your specicationsfor the soul of a loved one VACHTNACHT The Torah learning will protect the newborn

they

mention our messenger of hope, a respected outreach worker, who responded to our pleas and took on the difficult mission of

Arizona Woman Runs Over Husband For Not Voting

rescuing our teenager from those

Some people don’t deal well with defeat…. Holly Solomon, 28, an Arizona woman, in sheer misery at the re-election of Democratic President Barack Obama, ran down her husband, Daniel Solomon, 36, with their family car in Phoenix. Police say her reason for targeting her husband was because he failed to vote in the election. Mr. Solomon is in critical condition at a local hospital but is stable. He told police that his wife was furious over his “lack of voter participation.” She is concerned that their family will face hardship during Obama’s second term. Witnesses reported the argument began on Saturday morning in a parking lot and intensified. Mrs. Solomon then wildly chased her husband around the lot with the car, yelling at him as he tried to hide behind a light pole. He attempted to flee but his wife caught up and struck him with the vehicle. Holly Solomon was arrested for running over her husband. Anybody have any recommenda-

Our associate related how he

treacherous hands. Dear kollel members, I can’t state all the facts, but our cherished son is back b”H! witnessed unquestionable and obvious miracles with every step he took to bring him home! Your prayers saved our child! Now as we sign up for an additional period of partnership, we ask that you continue to pray that he find his way back to yeshiva and a yearning for Torah.

TOPIC SOURCE Through the merit of waking up at Chatzos, you become, Completely new, cleansed of all sins!

Every Day; Without Pause

The dangerous hurricane, cold winds, and massive power outages did not keep the honorable Torah learners of “Kollel Chatzos” from their nightly duties. They were here on time each night, learning and praying with fervor while mentioning the names of all those signed up and in need of help.

(‫)כף החיים סימן ג' אוט"ז‬

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‫בס"ד‬

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

The Week tions for an excellent marriage counselor? Preferably with experience in this field.

Man Finds Thousands of Dollars in Dumpster A Massachusetts man originally from Brazil has been combing local dumpsters for books and magazines for the last few decades. It’s a hobby he enjoys. He turns the historic photos from magazines into art. His habit began when he was a young immigrant and wanted to learn English by reading. Last month, the man discovered an old book and when he opened the cover, he was shocked to discover over $20,000. The man said, “I was quite surprised!” He did not disclose the exact amount but did say that it is between $20,000 and $30,000. He says the book “holds a lot of history.” The dumpster diver, who chose to remain anonymous, is looking for the rightful owner. He said that it just doesn’t feel right to keep the money until he tries to return it to its owner and is giving it six months to be claimed. If the rightful owner doesn’t show up then he will keep the money. Any takers?

$1,375 For a Piece of Cake

Ever want to own a piece of the yellow brick road? Last week, the blue and white gingham dress worn by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz” was sold at auction for $480,000. Supposedly, this price was in line with estimates that were given before the auction. If you’re surprised by the price, you

In News should hear what a similar dress worn during tests of the film sold for last year: $910,000. Only a few of those dresses are around, while the dress that was sold on Saturday was one of seven versions worn in the film. The auction also sold other paraphernalia including cake from two British royal weddings. A piece of cake from Prince Charles’ and Princess Diana’s 1981 nuptials sold for $1,375. I doubt that was edible.

Coffee Beans Can Become Extinct

Enjoy a good cup o’ joe? Well, better drink up! According to a new study, coffee may become a rare treat due to global climate change. Researchers predict that 99.7% of Arabica coffee bean growing areas will be impacted by 2020 as global temperatures rise, according to the study from the Royal Botanic Gardens in England. “The worst case scenario is that wild Arabica could be extinct by 2080,” one of the researchers is quoted as saying. No need to breakdown just yet, there is another species of coffee beans, Robusta, which is commonly found in freezedried coffee. Arabica beans make up 70 percent of the global coffee market and are the only beans used to make the fresh coffee you have at home or anything that you would find at your local Starbucks. Researchers predict that coffee producers will come up with a solution and invent cooling equipment and new irrigation techniques in order to sustain Arabica farms. Even if those techniques work, the flavor of coffee is sure to change and prices may rise because of shortages. Enjoy each cup as if it’s your last!

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Hundreds Join to Rebuild Long Beach; A Concert Invigorates the City with Song It’s about 4:30 AM Monday morning and sleep eludes me as I have just prepared the Daf for this morning’s shiur. It’s somewhat ironic that the subject of the Daf Shabbos 40 is concerned with the issue of “water” bathing on Shabbos and Yom Tov. Water, water everywhere. The reason for my insomnia is that I am overwhelmed by the sights and events of yesterday. The day started in its unusual-usual fashion since Sandy visited with davening in the morning, once again a communal breakfast for all comers and a Daf Yomi shiur. I am reminded of what has been said repeatedly about daf yomi – it is like a raft (daf) in the sea of the Talmud (Yam HaTalmud). And then it began first as a trickle and then as a wave people from all over

James Lemmer and Chazzan Stark

came pouring into the YILB - Yes ! Volunteers. The first group from West Hempstead, the next from Teaneck, another group from Plainview, yet another from North Woodmere, Passaic, Queens. And then to my surprise, a bus pulls up and out pours young men and women – where are you from? We drove down from Boston – the Maimonides School. Shortly thereafter several other busloads of people pulled up coming from the East and West Side of Manhattan in a caravan of chesed arranged by Rabbi E. Goodman of Chabad and the Bach/Chabad shul. This was a difficult dance and yet upon reflection, it was beautifully choreographed. Teams of volunteers were formed and assigned to specific homes of the residents who so desperately needed the assistance. For the most, part the job at hand was to remove, what heretofore were treasured possessions such as furniture, appliances, Seforim, computers, desks, clothing, toys and anything else you can imagine. For some, it was a lifetime of

memories and mementos – evidence of one’s achievements, joys and life’s work. Now discarded and thrown into the garbage heap that lined the streets and blocked the vision of each home in front of which it stood. Some piles higher and others lower. Others literally helped with ripping out walls, carpets and doing whatever was necessary for the task of rebuilding, restoring and rehabilitating the damage sustained. These volunteers, no these malachim, probably five hundred strong, young and old, male and female, rich and poor from every spectrum and stripe of Am Yisroel. Differences in dress, manner, demeanor was completely irrelevant – these people were here to help fellow Jews in need. Such sincerity, kindness, generosity of spirit, selflessness, and a purity of intent that was simply overwhelming. Ironically, many who finished their first assignment came back to the “command center” and reported for duty “Where do I go next? What else needs to be done?” Every group brought cleaning supplies, clothing, food, flashlights, anything that they felt could be used – such huge quantities that ran into the tens of thousands of dollars. Monetary donations, checks with promises of additional help. November 11th – The day that materialism, money, things, objects meant nothing. November 11th – The day that friendship kindness, humanity, love, concern, reaching out to a neighbor, a stranger reigned supreme. Throughout the day, coffee, snacks, drinks were provided. A luncheon was sponsored by My Most Favorite, a NYC restaurant. As darkness approached, the intensity of activity winded down. The Bach shul held Mincha in their Bais HaKnesses after a long hiatus and the YILB was jammed packed with locals and volunteers who came to daven before departing to their respective homes. “We’ll be back, just let us know what more needs to done.” A truck from Rochester pulls up filled with more supplies. Calls from HANC, from Lander College, Manhattan High School for boys we can send one bus, two buses – just let us know. Dinner is being served. Once again a cadre of dedicated men and women set up, clean, and prepare. At 7:30 PM, the main sanctuary be-

Chazzan Stark, James Lassner, Rabbi Ben Skydell, Rabbi Chaim Wakslak, Rabbi M. Schmidman

gins to fill up as people primarily from the neighborhood begin to trickle in. The exhaustion, tiredness and weariness are self-evident. A concert to raise the spirits, an event arranged just two days prior. A contingency of young men from Congregation Orach Chaim accompany their Chazzan, Yosef Stark, who so graciously agreed to perform. How surprising was it to see Rabbi M.Schmidman, Rabbi of the congregation Orach Chaim himself coming to give chizzuk, together with Rabbi Ben Skydell, James Lassner, the Chazzan’s children and other members. The program begins with the openings by Benny Amar, who enthusiastically agreed to perform as soon as he was asked. The music begins and “Shalom Aleichem” takes on new meaning. People in the shul, which is now practically full, begin to clap and sing along. Chazzan Stark’s amazing voice brings strength and comfort as he sings “Sheyebana Bais HaMikdash.” The evening provides a most needed respite of beautiful song and chazzanut.

Rabbi Wakslak welcomes the assembled and offers words of Chizuk and encouragement. In addition, Rabbi Binny Maryles of the National Council of Young Israel addresses the assemblage and finally Rabbi M. Schmidman provides a beautiful insight from parshas Toldos. (Of course Rabbi Maryles, who was accompanied by Chaim Leibtag, President of the White Shul, almost don’t make it, as many other being turned away at the Atlantic Beach Bridge because of the curfew. A call to the 4th precinct rectifies the problem with the police being assured that these people were not looters – they were coming to give and not to take.) Yitzchok rebuilt the wells of his father Avraham after they had been filled, he called them by the same name as his father. There was contention until the last well which he named Rechovot, reflecting that Hashem will see to the success of Klal Yisroel as they expand and succeed in their re-building. The night is over – everyone retires to their home and now it is 5:45 AM and I must go to shul to give Daf Yomi.

Volunteers

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Around the Community Bayswater Community – Stars Shine Bright on Rescue and Relief Mission by Shelley Zeitlin

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Stargazing is an unusual byproduct of not having electric power but as I walked out of the Young Israel of Wavecrest & Bayswater in the middle of last night, I couldn’t help noticing the awesome brightness of the constellation Orion high above the Rockaways. The shul, a place where thousands of people had come been throughout the long day for meals and clothing, or simple warmth and solace, was now quiet. Some energetic volunteers remained inside cleaning and polishing the kitchen and dining rooms, restrooms and floors. The clothing distribution center is currently silent. Normally a synagogue, now it is a large room where thousands of articles of clothing have already been given out and thousands more, including new blankets, pillows and towels are neatly organized. The dining room, normally the rear of the synagogue, has a dozen empty tables and more than a hundred empty chairs and is peaceful. Just hours ago, it was a vibrant hall with fine food and musical entertainment. The cook is resting now; re-energizing for another day in which he and his team will prepare twice its normal – in anticipation of the coming Sabbath day. Unseen – and still in full swing – are the dozens of volunteer security patrols, moving throughout our street-darkened neighborhoods. The command center for the Rockaway Citizens Security Patrol (RCSP) is quieter – with a sole young man coordinating the chatter of our dedicated guardians. Today, just moments ago, visitors

from numerous organizations including the UJA, Met Council and JCC-RP witnessed breakfast for dozens in full swing, clothing and blankets moving out the doors. The JCC-RP was here on day one, providing breakfast. Today, I heard one of our activist volunteers say, “We really need a shipping container to securely lock provisions,” and a moment later, another volunteer was saying the exact same thing. Unsaid, at least within my earshot, was the obvious request for funds in order to provide the needs for days and weeks more of a vast community without power, heat, and gasoline. And yet, the “stars,” the grassroots volunteers are so bright in Bayswater. The brightness at the YIWB can be seen from blocks away when approaching in the night darkness. It must be said that, despite the true misery and the horrific devastation, people of all stripes, backgrounds, cultures, colors, religions, and professions are joining together in a manner rarely seen. Donate to the relief action. Visit www.yiwb.org and click the ‘donate’ button on the lower right hand side. One hundred percent of all donations to the YIWB-Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund made through www.yiwb.org will be used to help others. Credit card donations can also be called in by calling 718.327.8606 or checks mailed YIWBHurricane Relief Fund, 2716 Healy Avenue, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. Again, this tax deductible fund is for relief and recovery only.

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Dirshu’s Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah: Finding Light in a World of Darkness By: Shimmy Blum

It was just over three months ago that I had the privilege of attending the Dirshu World Siyum in Tel Aviv. While there, it was clear to me that it was the most inspiring Torah event of my life. Standing amongst 13,000 dedicated talmidei chachamim of all ages and stripes, just a stone’s throw away from HaGaon HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman, shlita, HaGaon HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, shlita, HaGaon HaRav Shmuel Wosner, shlita, and other preeminent gedolim, all joyously celebrating the gift of Torah, evoked feelings beyond words. As I was exiting Yad Eliyahu Stadium, I remember thinking to myself, “Only in Eretz Yisroel.” The scene at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown, New York last Shabbos and Motzoei Shabbos was of another historic Dirshu event, the first ever North American Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah culminating with the Grand Siyum Melave Malka. As that weekend drew to a close, I could not help but think, There is indeed only one Eretz Yisroel, but… The minute you walked into the suburban New York hotel, that same distinct aura of the greatness of Torah hit you like a bolt of lightning. There was the presence of respected Rabbanim and Roshei Yeshiva of all circles, including

a special guest from Eretz Yisroel, the Ponovezher Rosh Yeshiva, HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, shlita. However, what was perhaps most striking about the Kinnus was just how extraordinary the 500 “ordinary” people that stayed at the hotel over the weekend, and the additional 1,000 plus people who came on Motzoei Shabbos, were. They were kollel yungerleit, me-

Dafim Gemara is par for the course for Dirshu participants. After lots of backand-forth, the winning bid was placed by Rabbi Sheis Avrohom Horowitz – who committed to learn 2,300 (no typo) Dafim Gemara to get a chance at making a beracha over the Torah. You did not have to be in the Beis Medrash at that moment to realize the Torah’s effect on those present. You

There were Yidden of every age group, every background and every levush, all sharing an unmistakable sense of camaraderie.

chanchim and hardworking baalebatim, who dedicate countless precious hours each week to ensure that they do not merely learn Torah, but actually acquire it – and yet more of it. A case in point was the “sale” of the aliyos at Shabbos Mincha – the “money” in this case being Dafim of Gemara. The Gabbai opened with a bid of 100 blatt for shlishi, but that quickly erupted into an aggressive bidding war. Dedication to learn hundreds – often thousands – of

saw the Torah’s inimitable effects in the contentment in their eyes and their refined smiles. You saw the Torah’s rays in the radiant faces. “The Bais Medrash was full early Shabbos morning and people kept on walking around with Gemaras and Mishna Berurahs in hand,” remarked one participant. “You were around people who live at a higher level, not just this Shabbos, but their entire lives.” There were Yidden of every age

group, every background and every levush, all sharing an unmistakable sense of camaraderie. One participant, an accomplished kollel yungerman, related how he kept on seeing complete strangers walk into the hotel Bais Medrash and learn b’chavrusa with each other simply because they found a common limud. “I never saw anything like this in my life,” he marveled. Apparently, neither did Rav Povarsky, who announced at the Siyum that it was the greatest Shabbos of his life. When a man of his age and stature makes a public statement like that, you know it means something. The Rosh Yeshiva and many of the other gedolim present spent a Shabbos mingling and speaking to other Gedolei Yisrael and “ordinary” Dirshu participants, exchanges that everyone seemed to enjoy –because nothing was really “ordinary” about the Dirshu Kinnus Olam HaTorah. You walk into the hotel exercise room, and you find a yungerman running the treadmill, tzitzis out and a Gemarah perched atop the display. You walk into the dining room on Sunday morning for breakfast and hear two yungerleit discussing where a Sugya that most of us have never heard of is, before settling that it’s in a Masechta

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that many of us have not mastered. And so on. One participant handed over a handwritten letter from his eight-year-old daughter to Dirshu founder Rav Dovid Hofstedter relating that when her father takes a Dirshu test, “Sometimes it takes (him) long to come home…but it’s still worth it because I know he is doing something special.” A bachur who attended the Grand Siyum on Motzoei Shabbos penned a note to Rav Hofstedter: “You cannot fathom how great of a chizuk we got from this awesome maamad.” You walked around the hotel and you realize that everyone was just so happy to be there. One middle-aged chassidishe Yid arrived at the hotel just one-and-a-half hours before Shabbos. He was told that there were no available rooms but decided that he can’t miss this event and told staff that he’s prepared to sleep on a couch in the lobby if necessary. On Motzoei Shabbos, he

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reflected positively on his gutsy gambit. “It was my only way to make it in here,” he quipped. The exuberance and mesiras nefesh of the Dirshu rank and file is indeed amazing, but it all starts from the top. The resources and personal time that Rav Hofstedter expends each year on running every aspect of Dirshu is practically unprecedented. The involvement of every partner in this endeavor –from across the globe – is seen in each detail. There were many factors – from Hurricane Sandy to the blackouts – that made turning this Shabbos into a reality all the more challenging. Yet, determination l’sheim shamayim prevailed. Dirshu’s indefatigable US director Rabbi Aaron Gobioff was unfortunately sitting Shiva for his mother a”h in the days prior to and after the Kinnus. His presence was missed, but the non-stop effort that he and Rabbi Shea Ryback, an experienced event coordinator and Dirshu Kinyan Torah mesayem, who

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stepped in on two days’ notice, was evident every step of the way. Hashgacha had it that I made my way to the Kinnus from Brooklyn, passing by the Manhattan skyline on the way. All of us in the car marveled at how so many of those majestic towering buildings remained in the dark due to the hurricane’s effects. A half hour later we turned into the parking lot of a modestly-sized hotel, barely visible through the surrounding trees. Yet, what you saw there was a beacon of light in every sense of the word –undeterred by any challenges placed in its way. There is a lot to say about the great accomplishment of Dirshu in the quantity and quality of Torah that it has added to klal Yisroel. We cannot, however, overlook another crucial aspect: its sophistication, professionalism and wide reach offer all of the world a glimpse of just how fortunate and dignified those who toil in Torah really are.

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Dirshu Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah – “Mein Olam HaBoh” A Look Back at a Truly Unforgettable Shabbos By: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer It was Parshas Chayei Sara,5773; the location: the DoubleTree Tarrytown Hotel in Tarrytown, New York; the occasion: Dirshu’s Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah, which hosted five hundred guests for Shabbos and 1,500 for the Grand Siyum Melave Malka on Motzoei Shabbos. The event followed hard on the heels of two monumental happenings that struck the United States with incredible force – the 2012 presidential elections and the never-to-be-forgotten fury of Hurricane Sandy. This was the backdrop against which Dirshu’s historic Shabbos event took place. It was a way for Klal Yisrael to unite in a beautifully joyful Torah atmosphere, sitting together with the leading Gedolim of the generation, to hear, imbibe and share the timeless messages that bear our life force. It was an opportunity to reinforce the ideas, ideals and concepts that we as a nation know to be true, even as we live with an uneasy sense of uncertainty that looms right outside our doors. Klal Yisrael today is in dire need of nechamah, life-restoring solace, and the presence of the Gedolim and their reassuring words of wisdom served as balm to everyone fortunate enough to have been present at this legendary Shabbos event. Mixing the very best of ruchniyus – inspirational words of wisdom, intellectually stimulating shiurim on a variety of topics, and the celebration of siyumim on various areas of Torah – the Shabbos Kinnus also provided a wonderfully relaxing interlude in the lives of all Bnei Torah who came. Simply speaking, Dirshu provided a feast for the body, mind and soul, all in one, in a Shabbos that will never be forgotten by those who were fortunate to have been a part of it. Every detail was tended to in the most thoughtful manner imaginable. Participants were given the option of

sitting in separate dining rooms or as couples, given separate tables, cutting into available space but ensuring that all remained as comfortable as possible as they enjoyed the experience, the drashos and the atmosphere while retaining ample personal space. It was a classic example of “Ma tovu aholecha Yaakov – How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob….” “We walked into the dining room after davening,” one of the guests recalled, “to be greeted by festively set tables covered with delicious, artfully displayed food ... The meals were so betampte, so tastefully arranged, with everyone accommodated according to his preference and needs, in a fashion so inherently tzniusdig … every couple at its very own Shabbos table, as it were … joining in to hear the incredible drashos while sharing Torah at their own seudos as well … exactly the way a Yiddishe Shabbos should look….” From the opening moments of the event until the guests’ reluctant departure, this Shabbos was an experience to savor and delight in, to enjoy and glean from, an opportunity to gain inspiration and rejuvenation while greeting old friends and making new ones. It was a true merger of physical and spiritual, in spectacular Dirshu style. Addresses from Gedolei Yisroel HaGaon HaRav Reuven Feinstein, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Staten Island, delivered an insightful drashah prior to hadlakas neiros, in which he discussed the turbulent times in which we live and the awesome challenges facing mechanchim and parents alike in the area of chinuch habanim. Rav Reuven discussed the issue at length, explaining that all the answers and solutions to this serious issue are to be found in the Torah, and that the only way to be

mechaneich our children properly is by utilizing the Torah that we learn to carry out our sacred task. It was with this vital message that the guests of Dirshu’s Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah ushered in the Shabbos Queen. HaGaon HaRav Yitzchok Sorotzkin, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Telz Cleveland and Mesivta of Lakewood, addressed the tzibbur between Kabbalas Shabbos and Maariv, capturing every heart in the room as he ushered in Shabbos with a stunning insight into what it means to be a ben aliyah, a person who spends his life striving constantly to grow in Torah and avodas Hashem. He quoted the Maharsha’s salient discussion of, “What, in fact, turns an individual into a ‘master of growth’?” “The key to becoming a ben aliyah according to the Maharsha,” thundered Rav Sorotzkin, “lies in being willing to forgo this world for the next one! It means being willing to accept the yoke of Torah as bnei Torah did in previous generations. There is an incredible amount of Torah being learned in the world right now, but it’s often Torah without a yoke, without a shibud, without a genuine commitment. We’re so quick to drop our learning schedules today. We fly in for our second cousin’s wedding … a Friday seder is no seder … There’s no yoke, no obligation.” Rav Sorotzkin then related an anecdote he himself had heard from Telzer talmidim who had studied under his grandfather, Rav Avraham Yitzchak Bloch, zt”l, who was murdered along with all the kedoshei Telz in the Holocaust. “When these talmidim were becoming bar mitzvah,” Rav Sorotzkin related with emotion, “they approached my zeide to ask his permission to travel home to celebrate this milestone with

their families.” The Telzer Rosh Yeshivah’s reply was consistent with the way he lived his life. “‘You don’t praveh (celebrate) a bar mitzvah,’ he told his talmidim. ‘Bein hazemanim you praveh a bar mitzvah’; and they didn’t go home. They remained in Telz and learned. That’s how they celebrated their birthdays – by staying in yeshivah and learning Torah, by reaffirming the yoke of Torah on themselves. “This,” Rav Sorotzkin concluded, “is what Dirshu is doing for Klal Yisrael – helping us reaffirm the yoke, giving us back the shibud….” Hagaon HaRav Moshe Mordechai Lowy, shlita, Mara D’Asra of the Agudas Yisroel of Toronto, spoke during the Friday evening seudah. He discussed one of Parshas Chayei Sarah’s major themes, that of Rivkah Imeinu’s chessed, not only for Eliezer but for his camels as well, and compared her actions of thousands of years ago to the outstanding behavior exhibited by the entire Jewish community in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. “The hurricane served as a clear demonstration of the chessed that flowed freely from every segment of Klal Yisrael. People opened their homes to their brothers in need. Not only did they welcome them lovingly into their homes, they gave their guests priority. They couldn’t do enough for their guests; no detail was too small … and this was seen over and over again, in every neighborhood, in so many homes…. “The middah of chessed is part and parcel of Dirshu as well,” Rav Lowy asserted. “From the attention given to the tiniest detail over this Shabbos, to ensuring that everyone had exactly what they needed despite the constant power failures happening everywhere, to the magnificent achdus that Dirshu helps create ... It’s Torah-chessed taking place on an

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unprecedented scale!” After the Seuda The Shabbos schedule was chockfull of the most enjoyable surprises, one of which turned out to be a fascinating and informative session of she’eilos and teshuvos – halachic questions and answers – delivered by Hagaon HaRav Yechiel Michel Steinmetz, shlita, Dayan of Kehal Toldos Yaakov Yosef of Skver, and moderated and translated by Harav Eliezer Ralbag, shlita. (See sidebar.) One of the many questions asked was: “If a number of people are about to celebrate a siyum, is it preferable for each to make his own siyum, his own Kaddish, his own seudas mitzvah … or should they combine and celebrate all together, making one large siyum, with the kiddush Hashem that this creates?” Rav Steinmetz’s response was: “This question should clearly be asked to Rav Dovid Hofstedter – for after witnessing the unforgettable siyumim that Rav Dovid put together this past summer, who is more of an expert on siyumim than he?!” The camaraderie that filled the room, the tremendous achdus between people of different stripes, and the fes-

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tive spirit and obvious delight in Torah study, turned this session into one of the highlights of the Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah. The lively give-and-take of a true Torah shiur enveloped the proceedings. No one wanted it to end. Rav Steinmetz mentioned another point that was repeated and quoted throughout the Shabbos: “The passuk states, ‘Dirshu Hashem Ve’izi,’” he said, using the Chassidishe pronunciation of the word Ve’uzo. “Dirshu makes learning Torah easy!” This point went over very well among all the participants, who pointed out that the printed schedule was misleading, as it stated that the oneg would begin at ten thirty, when it had in fact begun with Rav Steinmetz’s halachah shiur at nine forty-five!! The shiur was followed by a gala oneg Shabbos, at which the tzibbur enjoyed heartfelt Shabbos zemiros by Reb Abish Brodt and sons, and yet another delightful shiur given by HaGaon HaRav Fischel Shachter, shlita, Maggid Shiur in Yeshiva Torah Vodaas, in his inimitably amusing and thought-provoking style. “The respect that a wife and children have for a husband and father, who com-

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mits to the full learning schedule that is required in order to undertake the responsibility of the monthly Dirshu tests, is not to be believed … it’s pashut not shayich!” Rav Shachter gave numerous examples of stories he’d heard firsthand of families whose lives had been revolutionized by the introduction of Dirshu in their homes. His trademark warmth, humor and sincerity touched a chord in the heart of everyone sitting in the hall and was the perfect ending to an evening of true inspiration. While many people did in fact retire for the night after the oneg, the rooms set aside for battei medrash at the DoubleTree Tarrytown Hotel were in fact full, well past 1 a.m., with Yidden shteiging away over their sefarim. Apparently, the official oneg Shabbos had been just the beginning of their evening. Shabbos Day Of course, there were Daf Yomi shiurim before davening on Shabbos morning, delivered by Rav Dovid Hofstedter and Rav Nuta Silber. This was, after all, a Dirshu Shabbos. One participant at Rav Dovid’s shiur remarked, “I’m filled with such incredible hakaras hatov to Rav Dovid for everything he’s done for

me … What better way to show it than by rising early on a Shabbos morning to learn from the man who has changed my life? I learn Rav Dovid’s sefarim as well,” he went on, “and I make sure to repeat his chashuveh Torah chiddushim in his name … what better way is there to be mezakeh a fellow Jew … and certainly someone to whom I owe so very much!” One could feel the electricity in air as he explained the sugya, quoting extensively from Rishonim and Acharonim, the sounds of his kol Torah filling the early Shabbos morning with beautiful notes of Torah music – an auspicious start to what promised to be another day to remember for life. The superb voice of Reb Abish Brodt accompanied the assembled throughout the Shabbos. He davened not only Kabbalas Shabbos but Shacharis and Rosh Chodesh bentching as well, with his talented children backing him up throughout. After Mussaf it was time for another Dirshu highlight, as HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, shlita, Rosh Yeshivas Ponovezh, who had flown in from Eretz Yisrael especially for the occasion, rose to speak. The Ponovezher Rosh Yeshivah

So Much More than Just Questions and Answers By: Rabbi Nachman Seltzer

hough there were many incredible drashos of all kinds throughout the Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah, one of the highlights of the weekend was the question-and-answer session led by Hagaon Harav Yechiel Mechel Steinmetz, shlita, the Skverer Dayan, and moderated and translated by Rav Eliezer Ralbag, shlita, Rav of Kehal Lakewood Courtyard. The questions that were addressed in the session had been faxed beforehand to Rav Ralbag, who chose from among them during the course of the evening. In the end, the give-and-take and fierce debating among the participants didn’t allow time for all the questions on the list to be discussed, and Rav Ralbag was besieged by requests from the guests to arrange a follow-up session, which he hopes will

take place at a future event. “It was a phenomenal experience,” Rav Ralbag told me enthusiastically. “The olam was invigorated, everyone on their toes, listening breathlessly as Rav Steinmetz quoted sources for his piskei teshuvah from a huge array of sefarim. People were involved in a very real way, arguing … asking … debating. “The crowd was half chassidish, half Litvish. Some understood Yiddish, some did not. It was my job as moderator and translator to ensure that everyone comprehended every question that was brought up. I managed this by posing the questions to Rav Steinmetz in both Yiddish and English. He’d respond by rendering his psak in Yiddish, which I then translated to English. “Rav Steinmetz speaks a Chassidishe

Yiddish, while my Yiddish is decidedly Litvish. The result – another twist in the achdus-saga permeating this Shabbos.” Question: Someone just finished learning Maseches Brachos through the Dirshu program. A friend of his heard this exciting news and wants to know if he can become a partner in his friend’s learning, in the classic example of the YissacharZevulun relationship. Our question – since the learning has already been done, can the two people activate this partnership retroactively? Answer: “According to numerous poskim, the Yissachar-Zevulun partnership is not meant to be a business deal. The reason Chazal enacted such an arrangement is to give a person the means to learn if

he would not be able to do so otherwise. That’s why they allowed him to take on this ‘partner.’ In our case, however, the Torah had already been studied, clearly showing that there was never a need for a partner to make this learning possible. It is, therefore, not permitted to turn this into a business deal retroactively.” Question: If a person is a true masmid who doesn’t waste a second, is it better for him to buy ready-made wicks for his Chanukah menorah, or to prepare the wicks himself at the expense of his learning? Answer: Rav Steinmetz jokingly classified this as a “Litvishe question,” then responded that since the Rishonim clearly state that preparation is an important part of hadlakas neiros, it would be better to prepare one’s own wicks.

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gave a lomdisheh shiur on the intricate details of the sugya of kinyanei kiddushin, into which he interwove a new yesod on kinyanei eirusin and nisuin that inspired his listeners to begin an excited debate in the way of milchamtah shel Torah. It was a legendary moment in the Torah world, as Rav Povarsky delivered his masterful shiur flanked by Rav Yeruchim Olshin, shlita, Rav Reuven Feinstein, shlita, the Skverer Dayan, shlita, and Rav Yitzchak Sorotzkin, shlita. It was a true chaburah, with the Gedolim as full participants! Rav Reuven quoted at length from the psak of his father, HaGaon HaRav Moshe Feinstein, zt”l on the monetary worth of a kesubah, the Skverer Dayan had plenty to add, and Rav Berel tied it all together with true gadlus. “It wasn’t just a shiur,” was how one listener put it. “The Rosh Yeshivah gave it over with such geshmak, you could eat it up … so amazing, so delicious, we wanted to make Kiddush on it!” Listeners described the shiur as one from a bygone era, the kind of shiur that had been delivered by legendary Rashei Yeshivah of yesteryear, where questions are posed and an answer is given with a single yesod that causes everything to fall beautifully into place…. Rav Berel himself obviously felt the extraordinary emotions running through the air, exclaiming excitedly on motzaei Shabbos that “this was the most beautiful Shabbos I‘ve have ever had in my life!” The Shabbos morning seudah was characterized by a warmth that spread to every single participant, making everyone so happy and thankful to have been able to make the trip to Tarrytown for this

and is Rosh Chaburah of the Dirshu chaburah in Beth Medrash Govoha, was one of the speakers at the morning seudah. He quoted the famous medrash rabbah that describes the shiur Rabbi Akiva was giving to his talmidim, who were having trouble staying awake. Rabbi Akiva challenged his students with a question that was somewhat out of the box in order to rouse them. “In what merit did Esther Hamalkah rule over 127 countries?” In answer to his own question, Rabbi Akiva then said, “Because of Sarah Imeinu, who lived for 127 years.” Rav Pruzansky found this midrash

– and that’s the gift that Dirshu has brought to our world.” In another dining hall, Harav Moshe Schonblum, shlita, Menahel of Yeshiva Torah Vodaath, was the featured speaker during the morning seudah, his words clearly emerging from the depths of his heart. “Chazarah and more chazarah and more chazarah,” he exhorted the crowd. “This is the way to acquire the Torah! With tests and constant review, with accountability and responsibility! This is what keeps a person growing and moving in the right direction!” He then related a personal story.

Rav Ralbag challenged him: “What if the ready-made wicks are of a higher quality? Is it still better to make your own?” “Next thing you’re going to ask me,” Rav Steinmetz quipped, “is what if you have a wick that works by remote control?” As the participants laughed, Rav Steinmetz nodded to Rav Ralbag to answer the question himself. “Lighting with a better-quality wick is more important than preparing the wicks yourself.” Question: If a person fell asleep in the middle of a shiur, has he fulfilled his obligation of limud haTorah? Answer: Rav Steinmetz quoted a number of sources which clearly prove that, yes, one is still yotzei limud Torah despite the fact that he drifted off in the middle of the shiur. Question: Someone calls you up for information about a bachur for a shidduch. The person wants to know if the bachur is a masmid. You happen to know that he is not

– certainly not the kind of boy who studies for Dirshu tests during his afternoon break. Are you allowed to stretch the truth and tell the questioner that the bachur is a masmid, when he’s not? Answer: “The Taz clearly states that one is allowed to exaggerate a little when delivering a hesped at a levayah. For example, if the deceased was a minor baal tzedakah, one can stretch the truth and credit him with having been a major baal tzedakah. ‘The reason one may do this,’ explains the Taz, ‘is that the people attending the levayah expect a certain amount of exaggeration.’ This same yesod applies to shidduchim as well. People expect you to stretch the truth a little to make the person sound better than he really is. That being the case, they always discount some of what you tell them, because they know that you are painting a nicer picture than the actual reality. If you say the exact truth, however, they’ll still think that you’re making the bachur out to be better than

he is, and they’ll ‘take off’ even more than the truth, thereby turning the bachur into something he’s not. Therefore, one may describe the boy as being a little better than he is – because that’s what the people are expecting you to do.” Question: If a hurricane hits your city and a tree that had been standing in your garden fell over and damaged part of your neighbor’s property, are you responsible for the damages? Answer: “If it was a sickly tree and could have fallen over before the storm but didn’t, it would be considered ‘techilaso b’pshiah v’sofo b’oness’ (i.e., in the beginning it was a case of negligence, but in the end, there was nothing you could have done to stop the damage from happening), and you would be held responsible for the damages. If, however, the tree was a healthy tree, then it’s an oness (i.e., an event beyond your control), and you would not be held responsible. “And yet,” the rav reasoned, “perhaps

Shabbos event. It was felt by the spontaneous dancing that broke out through the dining room at both the morning and afternoon seudos and by the achdus that surged among everyone there, no matter what his affiliation, age or nusach. So many people from so many communities throughout the United States and even from Eretz Yisroel had come to be a part of Dirshu’s Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah. There were Yidden from all over New York, from Chicago and Baltimore, from Philadelphia and Toronto, from Lakewood and Montreal, from Teaneck and elsewhere; a crowd so diverse yet so alike. With a brief glimpse just below the surface, the common bonds were visible for all to see. Harav Moshe Pruzansky, shlita, who has been part of Dirshu for many years

difficult. “Had Sarah Imeinu lived only half the time she did, would that have cut down on the amount of countries over which Esther Hamalkah ruled? “No doubt,” he explained, “Rabbi Akiva was referring to an entirely different concept. When the Torah states that Sarah Imeinu lived for 127 years, and that they were good years, even though we know that Sarah Imeinu’s life was a difficult one, it means that Sarah Imeinu utilized her time to the fullest, never wasting a second, never loosing a minute – and that’s why her life is considered to have been so good. It was in this zechus, in the merit of knowing the importance of every second, that Esther Hamalkah merited to rule over 127 countries. “Time management is the key here

“Dirshu is one of the most effective unifying forces in Klal Yisrael today!”

While interviewing for the position of Menahel at Yeshivah Ateret Torah, Rav Moshe had met with Hagaon HaRav Yosef Harari-Raful, shlita, the Rosh Yeshiva of Ateret Torah and one of the guiding spiritual forces of Sefardic Jewry in the United States. :I’ve heard lashon hara about you,” Rav Harari-Raful said to him. Rav Moshe was taken aback. What had the eminent Rav Raful heard about him? “They told me that you take Dirshu tests on a regular basis … such devotion to Torah learning might interfere with running the school and will pull you away from your job….” Rav Moshe waited tensely to see where Rav Harari-Raful was going with this. “I disagree with them,” Rav Raful told his potential menahel. “I disagree with them. The reason that they claim it makes you unsuitable is the very reason I’m choosing you for the job! L’kach nivcharta – for that very reason, for your wonderful achrayus and dedication to the Torah that you learn. That’s why I want you!” HaGaon HaRav Zev Smith, shlita, Maggid Shiur for Daf HaYomi and Irgun Shiurei Torah, delivered a comprehensive halachah shiur before Minchah on inyanim relating to electricity in the neiros of Shabbos, the Chanukah menorah and biur chametz. He quoted the famous mishnah in Shabbos that we recite in davening every Friday night: “The mishnah states that a person is supposed to say three things to the members of his household on erev Shabbos: “Isartem? Eiravtem? Hadliku es haneir – Did you separate maaser [from the fruits]? Did you take care of the eiruv? [Rememyou should be held responsible for your tree’s damages regardless, since the hurricane was discussed in the news for a long time prior to its arrival. Perhaps the tree’s falling would not be considered an oness after all…. “However, since the newspapers tend to exaggerate and predict events that in many cases do not happen, you cannot be blamed for not having taken the projected storm all that seriously. “At the end of the day,” Rav Steinmetz paskened, “you’re an oness and will be absolved of having to pay.” *** “The atmosphere was entertaining and intimate,” said Rav Ralbag, “and all were disappointed that we only managed to cover half the questions. Many of the participants left with the feeling that the question-and-answer session is yet another feature to look forward to at the next incredible Dirshu event!”

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Around the ber to] light the candles.” Rav Zev then cited a chiddush found in HaRav Akiva Eiger z”tl: Notice that the Mishna states “Hadliku – light the candles.” It does not suggest that the husband tell anyone to prepare the lamp, fill it with oil and insert a wick. This is because the husband is obligated to take care of preparing the lamp himself. He may leave for others only the act of kindling the lights. He must do his part to ensure that the Shabbos enters a peaceful home that is ready and waiting for it.” At Shalosh Seudos Hagaon HaRav Yeruchim Olshin, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Beth Medrash Govoha, who spoke during shalosh seudos, quoted a Ramban that relates how Avraham Avinu returned to Be’er Sheva after Akeidas Yitzchak to give praise to Hashem for the miracles that had been wrought on Har Hamoriah. “Why did he go specifically to Be’er Sheva to give praise and thanks to Hashem? asks the Ramban. He answers that it is because that’s where Avraham’s eishel was – the place where he’d provided hachnasas orchim to so many people over the years – which made Be’er Sheva the most appropriate place to give

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thanks to Hashem.” Rav Olshin then quoted a passuk from Nishmas: “Were our mouths as full of song as the sea, and our tongues as full of joyous song as its multitude of waves … and our hands spread as wide as eagles of the sky, and our feet as swift as deer … Isn’t hodayah – giving praise – something that we do with only our mouths?” Rav Yeruchim wondered. “Why does the passuk include these other elements as well?” “The most effective hodayah, the most gracious thanks a person can offer Hashem,” the Rosh Yeshivah explained, “is to carry on doing the wonderful things he’s been doing all his life. Avraham Avinu gave thanks to the Ribbono Shel Olam by returning to the place where he had done so much chessed and where he had carried out the ratzon Hashem so beautifully. That’s what made Be’er Sheva the perfect location for offering thanks. He was thanking Hashem by continuing to do the mitzvos he had done for so long! We can give thanks to Hashem with our mouths and our lips and our tongues and our feet and our hands – with every part of our bodies, because every part of us has been involved in serving Him, and we want to

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thank Hashem by continuing to do our very best with our entire selves.” What Hat Will Moshiach Wear? Hagaon HaRav Yitzchak Zalman Gipps, shlita, Rosh Kollel of Tiferes Yaakov Yosef of Spink, was another featured speaker during shalosh seudos. “We are all familiar with Mashiach’s famous dilemma,” he said. “If he comes to redeem us wearing a Litvisheh hat, what will all the chassidim say? If he walks into Klal Yisrael’s shuls with a streimel perched on his head, what will the proud wearers of spudiks say? If he wears white socks, it won’t be acceptable to those who wear black socks, and vice versa. Poor Mashiach! What’s he to do? “The answer is simple,” Rav Yitzchak Zalman explained with a twinkle in his eye. “Mashiach will come down from Shamayim, and the first thing he’ll do is take a Dirshu test. Taking a Dirshu test will, without a doubt, unite Klal Yisrael behind him, to the point that nobody will even bother to look at his hat or socks. Because Dirshu is one of the most effective unifying forces in Klal Yisrael today! Belz, Ger, Vizhnitz, Lakewood, Flatbush, Europe and

Eretz Yisrael … all brought together by Dirshu and its common goals. And that same power applies when it comes to marriages. Dirshu is the most effective tool for shalom bayis that exists today!” Rav Gipps then related a personal story about the power of Torah. “There was a yungerman learning in kollel who hadn’t had children for many years. Someone phoned me asking me to daven for the couple. I decided that I would begin learning four blatt a day, so that they might have the zechus to have a baby. One day I received a call from the Skverer Dayan that the couple was expecting a child, but that there were complications. I thought the matter over until I came to the realization that I had recently stopped making sure to learn four blatt a day in their zechus. It had been difficult for me, and I had begun slacking off. Immediately, I strengthened myself and renewed my commitment to those four blatt a day … Rabbosai,” Rav Gipps said, speaking with great emotion, “the day that I took the Dirshu test on those 120 blatt that I had been learning in this couple’s merit was the day that my phone rang and I was informed that their child had just been born! That’s the power of Dirshu!”

Dirshu Grand Siyum Melave Malka Culminates a Historic Shabbos Honoring the Torah By: Shimmy Blum It was not long after we made havdala last Motzoei Shabbos and you could no longer walk through the main lobby at the DoubleTree Hotel in Tarrytown, NY. The Grand Siyum Melave Malka at Dirshu’s “Shabbos Kinnus Olam HaTorah” was set to begin and over 1,000 men arrived off cars and busses from Brooklyn, Lakewood, Monsey and other frum neighborhoods to join the 500 people that merited spending Shabbos at the Kinnus. As the crowd eagerly awaited the doors of the grand ballroom to open, they already got a solid taste of what this event

was all about. Shtreimlach with white socks mingled seamlessly with cleanshaven yungerleit; bachurim were seen schmoozing with yungerleit and whitebearded yidden; Sefardim stood side by side with Ashkenazim. Dedicated wives were wheeling babies in strollers in another room while their husbands peered over sefarim; beaming middle-aged men stood beside their married sons and sonsin-law who had reached great milestones in learning. Despite the large size and diversity of the crowd on display, the suburban hotel was permeated by a distinct aura of

serenity. Everyone seemed comfortable with each other; everyone seemed relaxed; everyone seemed happy. Although many of the participants have never met each other, they all felt as if they were home – because they were home. It was an occasion to pay tribute to the thousands of Dirshu participants who go the extra mile in their learning each day, and ended up mastering Shas, Halacha and other areas of Torah. One family. One vision. One goal. Making the Impossible Possible A glance at the dais gracing the ballroom highlighted the significance of this

first-of-its-kind historic Kinnus. The preeminent rabbanim and Roshei Yeshiva in North America, of both chassidshe and Litvishe communities, filled the many seats of the dais. Several seats on the lower row of the dais were graced by some of the prized yungerleit who mastered the premier Kinyan Shas and Kinyan Halacha tests. HaGaon HaRav Zev Smith, shlita, Maggid Shiur of Dirshu’s Daf Yomi B’Halacha program and Irgun Shiurei Torah, spoke of the pain that Hashem has over one who has the opportunity to learn Torah but does not do so. It can be easy

for a person to dismiss his capabilities and believe that it is “ih efshar” – impossible – for him to learn Torah, to learn more Torah than what he has mastered until that point. “Dirshu wipes away Hashem’s tears,” Rav Smith exclaimed. The Dirshu concept of arranging for an elaborate structure for learning and testing gives over 20,000 Yidden across the globe the incentive not to miss even a single page of their limudim and to thoroughly review every word of it. Suddenly, one way or another, it becomes possible to find the time to learn and review yet another Daf of Gemara or siman in Shulchan Aruch with time that you previously believed did not exist. “What percentage of the hours that Yidden spent being mesayem Shas was done waiting for a train, in the doctor’s office, etc., and other ‘impossible’ times?” Rav Smith wondered. Rabbi Smith recounted the words of his rebbi, HaGaon HaRav Avrohom Pam, zt”l, explaining the words of Chazal that “Ashrei mi shebah l’kaan v’talmudo b’yado,” fortunate is he who arrives with his learning in hand. Rav Pam related that if a Yid doesn’t master his designated portion of Torah in his lifetime, his neshama must, r”l, be returned to this world after he passes away. Thus, one who reaches the World-to-Come with his Torah in hand is fortunate to avoid that fate. Rabbi Smith lauded Dirshu for its success in helping Yidden attain – and retain – significant portions of Torah. Dirshu’s success at helping mainstream bnei Torah and balle batim tighten their grip on Torah is an inestimable accomplishment indeed, but Rabbi Smith made it a point to also note the amazing accomplishments of Acheinu, Dirshu’s kiruv arm. Acheinu runs a vast national network of Yeshivos, and teenage outreach centers in Eretz Yisroel, where youth from secular and marginally religious homes are brought towards the glow of yiddishkeit and limud haTorah. Rabbi Smith related an anecdote he recently heard about an Acheinu child who was completely removed from Torah just a short while earlier. Each anecdote is miraculous, but the fact that this story is repeated by over 10,000-fold throughout Eretz Yisroel makes it all the more amazing. Strengthening the Connection It is not every day that America is graced by the presence of HaGaon HaRav Berel Povarsky, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivas Ponovezh, but Rav Povarsky undertook the trip to our shores to participate in Dirshu’s Kinnus Olam HaTorah. At the Grand Siyum Melave Malka, the

senior Rosh Yeshiva expounded upon the greatness of Torah and the lofty levels it affords its learners to attain. Rav Povarsky opened his remarks by citing the Gemara in Maseches Berachos that describes Torah learning with the words “mevakshei Hashem,” those who seek out Hashem. The Rosh Yeshiva explains that there are two fundamentally differing levels of learning Torah. There is the elementary level of Torah, where one learns a minimal amount necessary out of fear of transgressing Hashem’s mandate. On the other hand, there are those who learn out of a craving love of Hashem, and always seek out the maximum quantity and quality of Torah that they possibly can – and the reward for the latter is far greater.

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The Rosh Yeshiva then reflected on the momentous Shabbos he had just spent honoring the Torah, by combining the principles of the holiness of Shabbos and Torah. He noted that wholesomeness in Torah creates wholesomeness in Shabbos and pointed to the words we recite during Shemonei Esrei every Shabbos by Mincha: “Avraham yageil, Yitzchok yeranein, Yaakov uvanav yanuchu bo;” Avraham and Yitzchak merely rejoice on Shabbos, but Yaakov merits the ultimate Shabbos rest. “’Titein emes l’Yaakov,’ Yaakov had the shleimus in Torah,” Rav Povarsky cited as the reasoning for his special portion in Shabbos. As the attendees were in the midst of bidding farewell to an uplifting Shabbos and their neshama yeseira, Rav Povar-

Although many of the participants have never met each other, they all felt as if they were home – because they were home. “Those who learn Torah with ahava (love),” the Rosh Yeshiva explained, “merit being directly connected to Hashem through it. ‘Yisroel v’oraisa v’kudsha berich hu chad hu,’ the Yidden, the Torah, and Hashem, are all one.” The Rosh Yeshiva then pondered an intriguing question: The mefarshim teach us that Hashem created the world so that the more necessary a commodity is for every moment of life, the easier it is to attain, e.g. air is universally available, water a little less so, and food even less so. Hence, the question begets, since Torah is the essence of a Yid’s life –“ki heim chayeinu v’orech yameinu”— why is it not easier to find? Why is it referred to as “yekara m’pninim,” more precious than pearls? Rav Povarsky answered this enigma based on his previous introduction. He explained that the minimal amount of Torah necessary to live is indeed relatively easy to learn. It is only the elevated level of fully delving into Torah that is more difficult. The Rosh Yeshiva then lauded Dirshu for helping bridge these two levels. He mentioned the passuk and organization motto –“Dirshu Hashem v’uzo bakshu fanav tamid”— and explained the “mevakshim” –the seekers— learn Torah “tamid,” steadily. To them, it is not merely like food, on which you munch on occasion, but like air, which you breathe in constantly. “Dirshu makes it easy to go from the level of yirah to the level of ahava!” through its pleasant learning and testing structure, Rav Povarsky exclaimed.

sky turned to Dirshu’s visionary founder, Rav Dovid Hofstedter and expounded upon his immense zechus in strengthening Torah in klal Yisroel. “Reb Dovid, how many neshamos are you feeding?” he asked. “There is no greater zechus possible.” Finding Joy Within minutes of hearing the above words of inspiration, the entire crowd found itself expressing their joy by forming lively dancing circles around their tables. The screens around the ballroom began playing tidbits from the Dirshu World Siyum at Yad Eliyahu Stadium in Eretz Yisrael this past summer. The sight of klal Yisroel’s most preeminent gedolim and 13,000 dedicated bnei Torah, dancing animatedly to the special melodies composed in honor of the Siyum, was enough to raise attendees’ eyes in nostalgia. It was not long before the orchestra and choir on stage at the DoubleTree at Tarrytown began singing those same songs. Ruvi Banet, who helped conduct the music and choirs in Yad Eliyahu, was doing the same right in front of our eyes. The piercing voice of Shloimy Daskal choreographed the energy and emotion of the assembled as the signature compositions were played and sung: “Mevakesh,” which features the passuk of “Dirshu Hashem v’uzo,”etc., as its chorus, and “Dirshu Hashem,” which features the words “Ashrei mi she’amalo baTorah” as its chorus. The uniqueness of the sight we were reveling in was explained by words of

insight that followed. Hagaon HaRav Elya Ber Wachtfogel, shlita, Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Zichron Moshe of South Fallsburg, stepped up to the podium and opened his remarks by calling the Kinnus, “a true Torah gathering.” Rav Elya Ber then began describing the significance of this historic event within the context of the historical turmoil in the world around us. The Rosh Yeshiva spoke of the physical damage that the recent storms have afflicted upon our entire region, as well as the “ruchniyusdige tsunami” we face with the sophisticated and relentless traps that the yetzer horah is using to ensnare our generation. With the compounding challenges that we are facing, what is the antidote? With this question in mind, Rav Elya Ber expounded upon the famous words of the Gemara in Maseches Kiddushin, “Barasi yetzer hora, barasi Torah tavlin,” Hashem created the Torah as an antidote to the yetzer hora. He cited that when Moshiach comes and the yetzer hora will be slaughtered, Hashem will say, “V’gam b’einai yafleh,” it is also a wonder in My eyes. Even Hashem will be baffled at how klal Yisroel overcame a yetzer hora that went well beyond his call of duty to cause Yidden to sin. The Rosh Yeshiva cited the words of the Vilna Gaon zt”l, who explained that when a Yid’s heart is overtaken by Torah, his yetzer hora is partially transformed into a yetzer tov and complements the person’s natural yetzer tov, utilizing the yetzer hora’s aggressiveness positively – thus making it far more effective. “In previous years, when the yetzer hora had a narrow focus, our Torah was able to be effective even with a narrow focus on a few blatt,” the Rosh Yeshiva summed up. “With today’s broad yetzer hora, we need a broad Torah; we need to finish perakim and Masechtos!” Rav Elya Ber explained that Dirshu is the perfect medium to help people acquire a broad knowledge in Torah. It allows you to retain lots of material through chazara, but also requires you to learn and relearn it thoroughly, so that the grasp is real and comprehensive. Appreciation for Learning Underscoring the unique diversity of the assemblage, the Viener Rav, shlita, of Williamsburg, followed Rav Elya Ber and delivered a distinctly heartfelt address. “This is a personal simcha for me,” he exclaimed. “My son, grandsons, and many yungerleit in our kehilla keep up with the Dirshu program.” The Rav praised the accomplishment of Dirshu, which incentivizes constant review, so that yungerleit expend tremen-

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dous toil in learning and use every spare minute to learn Torah. He acknowledged the enormous challenges that fathers with daunting schedules face in accommodating so many hours of learning, but focused his derasha on giving chizuk to those in the Dirshu program to continue with their mesiras nefesh and reap the rewards. “No one regrets taking part in the program,” he summed up. The Rav spoke about the special zechus that the wives of Dirshu participants have by giving up precious hours of their husbands’ help and time, and told them to view the refined Torah nature of their home and children as the most immediate reward. He spoke of how every yungerman who submits himself to acquiring such broad Torah knowledge and constantly takes the next step in learning should be valued by all around him as a potential gadol in the years to come, and should utilize his talents to give shiurim, become a posek, etc. Next, the Rav spoke of how the concrete knowledge and growth offered to yungerleit through Dirshu’s various programs is crucial for them to appreciate the greatness of their devotion to learning. He stressed how necessary this feeling of satisfaction is by relating an anecdote of a yungerman whose father supported him in Kollel for a decade, who then expressed his desire to join the business world because “you can’t become a millionaire in Kollel.” The father replied, “Did I support you for a decade so that you should believe that earning a lot of money is more precious than being able to learn lots of Torah?”

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“The Chasam Sofer writes that someone who is young in years but acquired chochma (wisdom) from elders is considered a zakein (elder),” the Viener Rav summed up, giving chizuk to the audience. “You may be young in years, but you are mature in chochma.” In conclusion, the Rav expressed words of chizuk and appreciation towards Rav Hofstedter. He related the words of the Chasam Sofer who said that Yitzchok intended to give the beracha of wealth to Esav because he expected him to support Yaakov’s Torah learning. Rivka Imeinu, however, understood that Esav would not use his wealth for such upstanding purposes and plotted that Yaakov receive the beracha, so that both the “Yissachar” and “Zevulun” come from Klal Yisroel. “Rav Dovid is not only a Yissachar for himself, learning, and writing sefarim,” the Rav stressed, “but he is also the Zevulun that supports so much Torah for others.” Grand Finale The clock was already moving towards late evening, but you would never know that judging by the faces of the attendees, who seemed like they just couldn’t get enough. As the event began drawing to a close, it was time to highlight the highlight: the Siyumim on Shas and halacha that thousands of yungerleit have accomplished through Dirshu in recent years. The audience sat spellbound at the brief audio-visual presentation of the Dirshu World Siyum in Eretz Yisrael, displaying the Siyum made by Hagaon HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman, shlita,

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and the Kaddish recited by HaGaon HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, shlita. The Lakewood Rosh Yeshiva, Hagaon HaRav Malkiel Kotler, shlita, was honored to recite the Siyum Hashas Kaddish in honor of all the Dirshu mesaymim. The crowd then erupted into festive dance, as the lead mesaymim left the dais and joined the inner circle with the Gedolei Yisrael. The final speaker of the evening was Rav Hofstedter, offering his view of the historic manifestation of his vision. Rabbi Smith introduced Dirshu’s founder and relayed that he had been requested not to speak about him – but insisted on mentioning him anyways. “Rav Dovid, you are Dirshu; you are the heart and soul of the organization,” he said. “You are not only the ‘Nasi’ of Dirshu; you are the ‘noseh’ –you carry the organization in the honor of Torah and its learners.” When Rav Dovid gracefully took the podium, it was reminiscent of his wellknown address in Yad Eliyahu at the Dirshu World Siyum, and his words on Motzei Shabbos echoed the sentiments he expressed in the Eretz Hakodesh: Rav Dovid wondered why it was specifically in our generation, weak and under the weight of unprecedented nisayonos, that merited such a renaissance of “Shas Yidden,” not only amongst “illuyim,” but across a diverse cross section of klal Yisroel? How is it that we merited seeing “the greatest kavod HaTorah in memory” during our era at the recent Siyumim, when the notion of royalty and honor is virtually extinct? How is it that during the newest Daf Yomi cycle, there

are presently over 10,000 Yidden across the globe taking the monthly Dirshu tests, including on Daf Yomi B’Halacha, the “new Daf Yomi”? Rav Dovid answered by citing the example of Sarah Imeinu. Sarah had a very challenging general life, but regarding overcoming her particular spiritual struggles, her years were “kulam shavin l’Tova,” all equally good. The passuk teaches us that Sarah passed away in Eretz Canaan, which the Zohar teaches us connotes tumah, to highlight her victory over the negative forces. He then cited the Ohr HaChaim who says that one who overcomes great nisayonos reaches immensely high levels. Rav Dovid concluded that it is thus in our generation, in a world steeped with tumah, that those who seek to overcome the challenges and toil in Torah reach greater levels than ever before. “The ‘pekel’ (bundle) of challenges is heavy, but this Siyum and the previous one in Eretz Yisroel show us that the soldiers put it on their knapsack and go into battle,” he declared, before issuing a rallying cry to all of klal Yisroel. “Klal Yisroel will always succeed; the only question is who will be on the side of victory.” The rallying cry was apparently heard loud and clear by those in the ballroom. The clock was past midnight, but all of those who did not have to make a bus home erupted in festive dance with no end in sight. The joy of Torah eclipses everything else. “Me’at min ha’or doche harbei min hachoshech,” a ray of light overcomes all darkness…

Bais Yaakov of Queens Students Start Kid-to-Kid Connect Bais Yaakov of Queens students discovered the depths of others’ feelings this week. In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, they returned to school on Thursday. Happy to be back in routine, they began to open up to one another with regard to how they spent their days, downed trees, the loss of power and who was expected as guests for Shabbos. Upon their return to school on Monday, after hearing many stories around the Shabbos table, students approached the administration with requests to get involved with help. The school, as suggested by Achiezer, started collecting toothbrushes, toothpaste and more. Boxes were filled, but the students wanted to do more, to connect with other children and let them know how much they care. In response, they decided to begin “Kids to Kids Connect” with the first project delivered erev Shabbos. Each student and many staff members made personal donations to help defray the costs. The administrative staff, including Mrs. Somerstein, Mrs. Bergman and Mrs. Reisbaum, as well as additional staff, Mrs. Acker and Mrs. Abramchik, packed “kits” for each class. Students hand-packed Shabbos packages of sweet treats “to help make Shabbos a little sweeter” and added messages on cards to show how much they care. The treats will go to children directly affected by the hurricane. Nearly 1,000 beautifully wrapped packages were delivered to Yeshiva Sh’or Yo-

shuv, the hub of Achiezer activity. One student said, “When we got back to school on Monday, I heard friends who live on Long Island went away for Shabbos. They had no light, heat, and some had been flooded. I didn’t realize how lucky we were in Queens until everyone started to open up with their stories. We just had to do something to help!” The administration offered guidance and arranged for deliveries of goodies to the school. Every child participated and made cards and packages. What started as a small feeling of despair turned into a great feeling of compassion, and the pride they felt in their actions made the experience more than one learns from books. Rabbi Mordechai Gewirtz, dean, added, “At BYQ we place enormous emphasis on middos tovos. Unfortunately, our Talmidos had a very special opportunity to turn that learning into practice and really demonstrate their Ahavas Yisroel. The administration and staff applaud the empathy and care of their girls as they practice ‘lilmod laasos.’” It is inspiring and uplifting that their true curriculum is Torah with Derech Eretz, and in that, each student has achieved honors.

First Week at AIM Hits the Spot! Our first week of AIM was off to a fantastic start with energizing aerobics with Mati, an inspiring shiur by Mrs Amit Yaghoubi, and delicious, fresh pizza (partially sponsored by Shimon’s Pizza)! AIM is a free Motzei Shabbos program open to any and all high school girls in the Queens area. This

coming week we’re privileged to host the renowned Rav Dovid Goldwasser shlita. Along with music, basketball, and refreshments, we’re greatly looking forward! Email aimqueens@gmail. com if you’re a high schooler, post-sem alumnus, or parent who would like to get involved!

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Community Dirshu Donates Seforim to Shuls Hard-Hit by Hurricane Sandy

Hurricane Sandy hit hard and fast; communities all over New York and New Jersey suffered greatly by the devastation. The nightmare families experienced reached its peak when homes were flooded, plunged into darkness, and some even lost their lives. Local shuls were also hard hit when floodwaters destroyed buildings and ruined entire libraries of Seforim. As a volunteer who came to Far Rockaway to help with the cleanup said, “We came to the volunteer station and we were asked to help people unload shaimos from their cars into a big truck. The line of cars coming to drop off ruined Seforim was nonstop. People were pulling up with cars, minivans and even a pickup truck loaded with full libraries of Seforim.” Local shuls had the heart-wrenching job of searching though ruins to salvage whatever shaimos they could find. The Agudas Yisroel of Bayswater was one of those shuls, having just about nothing salvageable including the building itself, besides for the Torah Scrolls which were removed prior to the storm. They now must begin the tedious job of rebuilding completely from scratch. And they unfortunately are not the only ones in this situation. The thousands and thousands of Seforim that people spent hours poring over their holy words are now destroyed, buried deep in the ground, never to be learnt from again. Many people have wanted to help since Hurricane Sandy hit, and one organization, Dirshu, is helping in an area that has been largely bypassed but desperately needed. Dirshu is an organiza-

tion that promotes Torah learning and helps people retain the knowledge, and they have become a leader in advancing learning in so many communities. Thousands of people sign up to take Dirshu’s exams. In fact more than 10,000 people signed up to take their kinyan Daf Yomi test a couple of months ago! After the devastating hurricane, one member of the Dirshu team came up with the idea of assisting shuls whose Seforim got destroyed by donating Seforim that Dirshu prints, free of charge. This includes Dirshu’s new Shul Chumash with the commentary of the Ramban and the Dirshu Mishna Berurah, among others. This will definitely help shuls that are still reeling from their losses jump start their recovery and help rebuild their libraries. In fact, the Agudas Yisroel of Bayswater has already contacted Dirshu in order to make use of this incredible chessed. And any other shul suffering from a loss of Seforim is invited to call. This program will also help residents in these hard-hit areas get back to learning and continue to put one foot in front of the other. Any shul that was negatively impacted by Hurricane Sandy and has had Seforim destroyed, can contact Dirshu and begin to rebuild. Please do not hesitate for even a moment, as Dirshu sees it as their mission to help in this way. Please call 732-5346036 or email Chumash@DirshuNJ.org for more information. May Klal Yisroel know no more tza’ar, and may we share in only Simchas going forward.

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OHEL, Camp Kaylie and HAFTR Hold FREE Carnival Providing Entertainment to Kids and Respite for Parents

GOOD ADVICE FROM THE GOOD HANDS ®

Q: With all the floods in the news, I’m starting to

wonder: will my home insurance cover me if my house floods? A: Most homeowners policies don’t cover flood

damages. It’s why, in 1968, Congress established the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Allstate sells and administers flood policies for the NFIP. While the federal government pays for the actual claims, Allstate handles the claims process. So you can expect the same great service on your flood claim as with your homeowners insurance.

Children enjoying the day

Over 1,000 children and families attended a FREE community-wide carnival organized by OHEL, Camp Kaylie and HAFTR on Sunday. The idea of the carnival was to provide entertainment for children and much needed respite for parents and families who have been hard hit Suzy and Elly Libin and Yitzy Haber by the Hurricane. Activities included bouncy abilities who are part of OHEL Bais houses, prizes and giveaways gener- Ezra’s weekly Sunday program at ously donated by Mendy and Hedy HAFTR enjoyed the carnival. Klein, snacks doAmong those nated by Gourmet in attendance Glatt as well as where Elly Libin, water generously long time dedicatdonated by the ed OHEL Board Hershey Pennsylmember, as well vania Fire Compaas his wife Suzy; ny, who have been Jonathan Marks, in the community an OHEL Golf providing much Chairperson, and needed help since his wife Rachel, the Hurricane hit. an OHEL Board Members of OHEL’s Sunday Recreation Program While the mamember; Judy jority of families Lebovits of the came from The Five Towns, many Gruss Foundation; and OHEL and families came from Brooklyn and Camp Kaylie Board Member, Jay even New Jersey. Additionally Kestenbaum. children with developmental disOHEL thanks the many vol-

Jonathan and Rachel Marks and Family

You can check your home’s flood risk at www.floodsmart.gov by entering your address. If you have any risk at all, it’s worth talking with me to see how much flood insurance would cost. I’m here to answer other questions you might have about home and car insurance as well. Whenever you have a question, I’m just down the street - or a phone call away.

Call me for a Good Hands® Coverage Checkup. I can help you make sure you have the right coverage at the best possible price. It’s fast and free. Call me today.

Chaim L. Alter (718) 713-8400 1695 Northern Boulevard Manhasset CharlesAlter@Allstate.com Judy Lebovits of the Gruss Foundation and David Mandel, Chief Executive Officer of OHEL

unteers who came from TAG, HAFTR, HALB, Rambam and Yeshivah of Flatbush.

Flood insurance may be available through either an Allstate Agent or directly from FEMA and provided by the National Flood Insurance Program. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company

Bnos Malka Academy Takes to the Stars By Mrs. R. Babad In parshas Lech Lecha, Hashem tells Avraham to go outside and count the stars. This passuk is one of the most beautiful promises that Hashem made to the Avos, that their children will multiply exponentially and be as many as the stars in the heaven. To drive home the significance of these words and in conjunction with

Bnos Malka’s dedication to interdisciplinary instruction, the students at Bnos Malka Academy were visited by a traveling planetarium to learn more about the great balls of burning gas in the sky above. Students were mesmerized by the dazzling stars that magically appeared in the “night sky,” and learned many

important facts about stars. Did you know that a blue star means that it is a new and young star, while a red star means that the star is older? Students also learned how to located different constellations, such as Orion’s Belt, and that the best place to seek out the stars is facing towards the southern part of the sky.

Interdisciplinary instruction is a great tool for helping students make connections between content areas. These connections enable students to have a deeper understanding of the material, and to retain the knowledge as well.

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Shalhevet Volunteers for Achiezer Unfortunately, the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy left huge losses for many local families. They lost valuable items, including necessities for everyday life. Thankfully, Achiezer, a local chesed organization, stepped up to the plate and took charge of organizing volunteer efforts quickly after the storm struck. Much was gathered almost overnight from the community: mountains of clothing, food, diapers, toys, household goods, dishes, shoes of all sizes, and more. The families who lost so much during the storm are now able to receive much of what they need. Countless volunteers have been working around the clock to make sure that the people of the community have their needs met, whether it be diapers for a baby or a warm winter coat. This past Tuesday, November 5, the seniors of Shalhevet High School heard about all the work still to be done and traveled (despite the gas shortage) to Yeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv, Achiezer’s home base for the hurricane relief efforts, to

help sort donations and set up the food tables. Upon entering the ballroom where the donations are stored, the students were stunned by how quickly things were set up and how much was already collected. Racheli Pressburg said, “The amount of clothes looked like a store and more.” “You learn to appreciate what you have,” said Ruthie Besalel. When a lady came to pick up a package, she had the same reaction as the students: they saw the shock on her face. She was in awe that our wonderful community came together for one another in such a short amount of time. After leaving Sh’or Yoshuv, the students of Shalhevet would like to extend thanks to Achiezer for helping our community and making sure that everyone has their needs met. It was a great opportunity for the Shalhevet seniors to learn about chesed and serving our community firsthand, and they were grateful to play a part in helping those in need at this time.

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Charlie Harary to Speak in Forest Hills On Sunday night, November 25th, CHAZAQ & Beth Gavriel present renowned lecturer, Charlie Harary. Refreshments will be served at 8:00 PM; lecture is scheduled for 8:30PM. Men and women are welcome and admission is free. The lecture will be held at Beth Gavriel Community Center, 66-35 108th street, Forest Hills, NY 11375. For more information, call or text, 917617-3636 or email info@chazaq.org.

HAFTR High School Open House On Sunday, November 11th, HAFTR High School opened its doors to prospective HAFTR High School students and their parents. More than 350 guests filled the building in what was the most successful HAFTR High School Open House to date. More than 20 families from other neighborhood schools also attended the event and were in-

troduced to the wonderful experiences that their children will have at HAFTR High School. Visitors learned about the unique and individualized educational

opportunities that HAFTR High School has to offer both in General and Judaic studies. The day’s program began with speeches from the HAFTR High School Principals, Ms. Naomi Lippman and Rabbi Gedaliah Oppen, in addition to a senior speaker, Rebecca Jedwab, and Justin Glickman, a freshman speaker. There was standingroom-only in the High School auditorium as guests listened to the presenters and watched a unique video presentation which highlighted the institution. Parents spent the remainder of the morning sitting in on four model lessons, while students were sent on a scavenger hunt that gave them the opportunity to explore the school and interact with HAFTR High School students and faculty members. We look forward to welcoming all of these new families to the HAFTR High School community.

Moreinu HaRav

Yartzeit

Aharon Kotler

Commemoration

Celebrating a Yovel of Torah Growth

Join Klal Yisroel

in commemorating the historic 50th Yartzeit and enduring Torah legacy of Moreinu HaRav Aharon l"wevf

l`xyi ihay cgi ,mr iy`x sq`zda dxkf` This Sunday, November 18, 2012 / b"ryz elqk 'c Beth Medrash Govoha, Lakewood, New Jersey

COMPLETE AZKARAH SCHEDULE

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

‫בית‬ ‫מדרש‬ ‫גבוה‬

THI S SU NDA Y!

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

44 ‫בית‬ ‫מדרש‬ ‫גבוה‬

Additional Azkarah Events THURSDAY NIGHT YAHRTZEIT PROGRAM / ukxf ‘c ouhk rut NOVEMBER 15TH Location: Time:

HARAV DOVID SCHUSTAL

‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫בית מדרש גבוה‬

‫דברי זכרון‬

Israel Henry Beren Hall, 617 Sixth Street 5:45 - 7:45 pm: followed by chrgn

HARAV CHAIM LEIB EPSTEIN

,‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫ ברוקלין‬,‫ישיבת זכרון מלך‬

‫דברי חיזוק והכרת‬ ‫ערכה של תורה‬

HARAV HILLEL ZAKS

,‫ראש ישיבה‬ ,‫ישיבת חברון‬ ‫קרית ספר‬

‫לימודים פון‬ ‫אונזער רבי‬

HARAV ZEV TIKOTZKY

‫מכון משנת רבי אהרן‬ The Early Days with Rav Aharon

MOTZOEI SHABBOS / SIYUM HASHAS AND MELAVA MALKA PROGRAM Location: Time:

Israel Henry Beren Hall, 617 Sixth Street 8:30 - 11:00 PM

HARAV YERUCHIM OLSHIN

HARAV MOSHE HILLEL HIRSCH

HARAV SHOLOM SCHECHTER

HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETZKY

‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫בית מדרש גבוה‬

‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫ ירושלים‬,‫ישיבה נר משה‬ Zemiros:

‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫ בני ברק‬,‫ישיבת סלבודקא‬ ‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫ישיבה ד’פילאדעלפיא‬

Reb Abish Brodt

Estimated Driving Times and Sunday Event Parking Information: Please allow the following driving times to Lakewood on Sunday morning: Boro Park or Flatbush: ......................................... 1.5 to 2 hours Monsey, Lawrence, Manhattan: ........................ 2 to 2.5 hours Lots at the following locations have been designated for your parking convenience. Shuttle buses will run in a continuous loop to transport visitors from each parking lot to the event location and vice versa.

• Municipal lot at corner of First Street and Madison Ave. • Public school lot at corner of Seventh Street and Clifton Avenue (no shuttle, event is a 2-block walk) • Chemed parking lot at 1771 Route 9 North • Stadium lot at corner of Cedarbridge and New Hampshire Avenues Street parking is also available with shuttle buses stopping at the corners of Case Road and Fourteenth Street, and Case Road and North Lake.

MAIN YARTZEIT PROGRAM

At Beth Medrash Govoha, Lakewood, New Jersey Join us for the major asifa in the presence of Gedolei Torah from America and Eretz Yisroel

ukxf ‘s

/ THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18TH

ohkkuf hatr • vchah hatr • ktrah hkusd • irvt crv hshnk, hbez ,up,,avc vrfzt ktrah hpkt ,uccru • vchahv hrduc • vchahv hshnk, • vrucj hatr • ohrunst Location:

Seventh Street, Corner of Private Way

(Former site of Bais Eliyahu)

12:45 - 1:10 pm:

vjbn iurfz hrcs

1:10 - 2:30 pm:

(English translation will be available for the drashos that are in Yiddish)

HARAV MENACHEM JUNI

HARAV ARYEH MALKIEL KOTLER

‫דברי פתיחה‬

The Zeide’s Fire

‫ראש ישיבה‬, ‫ מקסיקו‬,‫ישיבת כתר תורה‬

‫ראש ישיבה‬, ‫בית מדרש גבוה‬

HARAV MATISYOHU SALOMON

HARAV ELYA BER WACHTFOGEL

‫– תורה לשמה‬

‫– מתוקים מדבש‬

‫ בית מדרש גבוה‬,‫משגיח‬

,‫ראש ישיבה ישיבה גדולה‬ ‫ פאלסבורג‬.‫זכרון משה סט‬

Our Foundations of Life

Rav Aharon’s mehalech in Torah

HARAV UREN REICH

,‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫ישיבה גדולה וואוד לייק‬

‫ והסנה איננו אכל‬-‫רב אהרן‬

• All men and women are cordially invited to attend the asifa • Children are invited to participate in the Hachnosas Sefer Torah at 2:30 pm • Hospitality tents with refreshments will be on site for all guests

2:30 - 3:00 pm:

k"eumz irvt crv ,nab rfzk vru, rpx ,ch,f ;ux

3:00 - 3:10 pm:

AZKARAH VIDEO PRESENTATION

3:10 - 3:30 pm:

GROUNDBREAKING, NEW MERKAZ HATORAH

• Dedication of Bais Medrash Bais Yitzchok

• Dedication of Binyan Herzka

3:30 - 4:00 pm:

vru, rpx ,xbfv and ohsuehr Dancing from Seventh Street & Private Way to the Beren Building / Maon Zafir

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

‫בית‬ ‫מדרש‬ ‫גבוה‬

Lakewood Community Shabbos of Azkarah ‫ פרשת תולדות‬Shabbos Schedule

Fifth Street & Private Way

Fourteenth St. & Ardenwood

Squankum Road

Glen Avenue

HARAV ARYEH MALKIEL KOTLER

HARAV YERUCHIM OLSHIN

HARAV DOVID SCHUSTAL

HARAV MOSHE HILLEL HIRSCH

REB OSHER GREEN

HARAV CHAIM FASMAN

HARAV NOSSON NUSBAUM

‫ בית מדרש גבוה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

HARAV SHOLOM SCHECTER

‫ ירושלים‬,‫ ישיבה נר משה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬ HARAV ZEV TIKOTZKY

‫מכון משנת רבי אהרן‬

5:29 :‫מעריב‬ Bendheim Bais Medrash Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Yaakov Mueller 641 Fifth Street

‫עם מזמרים‬

Yaakov Mehl Yehuda L. Brody

‫ בית מדרש גבוה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬ ‫מתלמידי ר’ אהרן‬

REB MEIR SCHICK

‫ממקורבי ר’ אהרן‬

4:31 :‫שבת‬

‫מנחה וקבלת‬

‫בית החסידים ד’גור‬

1193 West County Line Road Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Menashe Frankel 1415 Ardenwood Avenue

‫עם מזמרים‬

Avromie Jacobs, Ari Polak

‫מתלמידי ר’ אהרן‬

4:24 :‫שבת‬

‫מנחה וקבלת‬ ‫נר דוד‬

1405 Tanglewood Lane Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Geller 334 Autumn Road

HARAV MENACHEM JUNI

‫ מקסיקו‬,‫ ישיבת כתר תורה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

4:24 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ 1371 Alvarado Ave ‫קהילת יעקב עקיבא‬ Oneg Shabbos: 8:30

1371 Alvarado Ave ‫עקיבא‬

‫קהילת יעקב‬

‫עם מזמרים‬

Dovid Gabay, Mutty Gutman 3:54 :‫מנחה ושלוש סעודות‬ 1512 Laguna Lane ‫אור יעקב‬

Shmuel Dov Bernath Meir Hershkowitz, Shmuel Levi 8:15 :‫תפלת שחרית‬

‫עם מזמרים‬ Tori Court

‫עם מזמרים‬

Yitzchok Ginsburg Yechiel Schron

‫עם מזמרים‬

‫בית מדרש נחלת יעקב‬

Central Ave. & Central Court 1395 Central Avenue

‫ קרית ספר‬,‫ ישיבת חברון‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬ RABBI YECHIEL SPERO Noted Author 4:26 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ 41 Clearstream Rd. ‫ב”מ בית אהרן‬

8:30 :‫תפלת שחרית‬ Bais Medrash of Westgate 100 Ropshitz Court Sterling Forest

HARAV YAAKOV M. HIRSCHMANN

‫ כולל אבריכים ד’טאראנטא‬,‫ראש כולל‬

Hope Chapel Road

HARAV SHLOMO LEIFER

‫ ברוקלין‬,‫כ”ק אדמו”ר מנדבורנא‬

HARAV YITZCHOK WASSERMAN

‫ דנווער‬,‫ ישיבה תורת חיים‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬ 4:44 :‫שבת‬

‫מנחה וקבלת‬

‫ב’’מ תפארת שלום נדבורנא‬ 415 Monmouth Avenue

‫ לייקוואוד‬,‫ קהל מאור חיים‬,‫רב‬

Oneg Shabbos: 9:00

‫עם מזמרים‬

Shulim Krauss, Yechiel N. Landau Yanky Perlstein

Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Moshe Gold 11 Country Club Drive

TORAH LINKS PROGRAM

Ridge Avenue

‫ ראש מכון מהרל‬,‫מזקני רבני דלוס אנגלס‬

‫עם מזמרים‬

HARAV YISROEL NEUMAN

‫ בית מדרש גבוה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

4:19 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ Cong. Sterling Forest Ashkenaz 144 Hadassa Lane (Downstairs) Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Aharon Hirschmann 208 Hadassah Lane

4:21 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ 322 Ridge Avenue ‫בית דוד‬ Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 307 Ridge Ave. ‫אור יחזקאל‬

Dovid Mashinsky Mordechai Rosenberg

Reuven Herzog, Dovid Pinter, Motti Weiss

‫עם מזמרים‬

Monmouth and Fifth

‫עם מזמרים‬

Moshe Berkowitz Zelig Muller Yechiel Schnitzler

HARAV ELI HERZKA

‫ ברוקלין‬,‫ ישיבת זכרון מלך‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

‫עטרת בנימין‬

125 Glen Avenue South 3:50:‫מנחה ושלוש סעודות‬ Columbus Avenue Shul 1395 Central Avenue

Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Shuki Katz, 11 Tori Ct.

‫ כולל אבריכים ד’טאראנטא‬,‫ראש כולל‬

Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Yehoshua Bressler 70 Ponderosa Drive

‫מנחה וקבלת‬ ‫חניכי הישיבות‬

Shmuel Gilbert, Dovid Leiser

HARAV SHLOMO MILLER

4:24 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ Bais Medrash of Pine River 501 River Avenue

4:42 :‫שבת‬

142 Hollywood Avenue Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Reuven Millet 203 Columbus Ave. South

‫ראש ישיבה ישיבה דלונג ביטש‬

HARAV CHAIM LEIB EPSTEIN

‫ סקרנטאן‬,‫ ישיבה בית משה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

‫ באלטימאר‬,‫ ישיבה נר ישראל‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

323 Squankum Road Oneg Shabbos: 8:30 Rabbi & Mrs. Lazar Weinman 28 Twelfth Street

HARAV YITZCHOK FEIGELSTOCK

Moshe Mendlowitz Yechiel Wasser

HARAV CHAIM BRESSLER

‫קול שמשון‬

Westgate

‫עם מזמרים‬

Pine River

‫מנחה וקבלת‬

HARAV HILLEL ZAKS

‫ ישיבה בית ישראל‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

REB AVROHOM TANNENBAUM

4:26 :‫שבת‬

‫ בני ברק‬,‫ ישיבת סלבודקא‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

‫תפלת מוסף‬

HARAV SHMUEL MILLER

‫ סטמפארד‬,‫ ישיבה בית בנימין‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

‫ כולל דלוס אנגלס‬,‫ראש כולל‬

Raintree

Case & Autumn Roads

HARAV MEYER HERSHKOWITZ

‫ בית מדרש גבוה‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

HARAV UREN REICH

‫ ישיבה גדולה וואוד לייק‬,‫ראש ישיבה‬

‫עם מזמרים‬

HARAV PINCHOS GRUMAN

RABBI PAYSACH KROHN RABBI SHMUEL LYNN 4:24 :‫מנחה וקבלת שבת‬ Columbus Ave Shul 1395 Central Ave. (Downstairs) Oneg Shabbos: 8:30: MEN Rabbi & Mrs. Avi Feigenbaum 199 Glen Ave. South

‫עם מזמרים‬

Dovid Doppelt, Eli Koot Oneg Shabbos: 8:30: WOMEN Dr. & Mrs. Chune Lebowitz 190 Glen Ave. South 3:50:‫מנחה ושלוש סעודות‬ Bais Medrash Nachlas Yaakov 1600 Central Court

Bottom Line Marketing Group: 718.377.4567

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

NEWS

Community

HANC Second Graders’ Authors Second graders in Ms. Vogt’s class at HANC’s Samuel & Elizabeth Bass Golding Elementary School in West Hempstead learned that finding the author’s purpose is as “easy as pie”! The students learned that authors have different reasons for writing: to persuade, to inform and to entertain. The class read several books and worked together to determine the author’s purpose. The students then read books independently, on their individual reading level, and used paper plates divided into sections, into “pies,” to identify the author’s purpose and to supply textual evidence to support their answers. The project was a wonderful and fun way to teach the students to start to think about and analyze what they’re reading.

47 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

HANC Helps Victims of Hurricane Sandy Students at HANC’s Samuel & Elizabeth Bass Golding Elementary School in West Hempstead are responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy with a tremendous sense of responsibility to help their friends and neighbors. HANC is running a Tzedakah Drive to raise money for families who have been devastated by the storm, and students are bringing in money from their parents as well as pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters from their own piggy banks. The 6th grade boys in Rabbi Jakubovics’ class packaged Shabbat treats (generously donated by I&D of West Hempstead) to be delivered to

the Young Israel of Long Beach, which was hit hard by the storm. In addition to the Shabbat treats, knapsacks and insulated lunch bags were also delivered. Students are also contributing to a book drive, organized by HANC Librarian, Mrs. Marjorie Shuster, to help restock the school library of the West School in Long Beach whose library was completely flooded and destroyed. Unfortunately, long after most of us have lights and warm homes, there will continue to be ongoing needs in some of the hardest hit communities. HANC families and their children are ready and committed to continue to help.

HAFTR Hosts Community Programs Throughout the Weekend This weekend, the HAFTR campuses were home to several community-wide events. In addition to the High School Open House, HAFTR High School welcomed the greater Five Towns community to a free concert sponsored by Achiezer and Gourmet Glatt. Radio personality Nachum Segal hosted the event which included a special performance by Lipa Shmelczer. The evening’s festivities continued with Girls’ Israel Night. Various representatives from seminaries in Israel discussed their specific programs to local high school girls from Shalhevet,

HANC, HAFTR, SKA, North Shore and Central who are interested in attending these schools after graduating from high school. Participating schools included Midreshet HaRova, Midreshet Moriah, Tiferet and Shaalvim for Women. HAFTR Lower School hosted Sunday Funday, a free carnival organized by Ohel to entertain families, many of whom may be without power or heat. The day consisted of snacks, raffles and prizes for all attendees. HAFTR was thrilled to welcome these various organizations and schools into our facilities over the weekend.

NEWS

Community The Kalever Rebbe Visits YU

The Kalever Rebbe, Rabbi Moshe Taub, visited Yeshiva University on November 7 to offer blessings, guidance and words of encouragement to students

49 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Around the

LOCAL

Bais Yaakov of Queens Host Safety Kid Mini-School This week, Bais Yaakov of Queens hosted a minischool. Magen New York, which brings the “Safety Kid” program to six Yeshivos in Queens, began this year’s school presentations at Bais Yaakov of Queens! On Sunday, the founders of Magen, N.Y., Mrs. Surel Goldfinger and Mrs. Aviva Hoch, coordinated the program at Bais Yaakov where eight new presenters were trained. Following the intense training, Safety Kid volunteers entered the “trenches” and visited all students in their classrooms, in small, comfortable groupings, to discuss the importance of safety. All classes from kindergarten through fourth grade participated in the learning, which included student participation and an opportunity for discussion about their concerns. As

an added feature, this year, Bais Yaakov is a pioneer as the first yeshiva in Queens to invite Safety Kid into fifth grade classrooms! The administration was concerned about maintaining what they learned and reinforce ideas how to keep themselves safe! We are proud to host this group of volunteers who are helping our community stay safe. Remember your ABC’s girls: Ask For Help! Bring a Friend! Check First! Do Tell! Explore the Internet Safely!

NEWS

Community Gimme Shelter:

Mercy Medical Center Houses Out-of-State Hurricane Sandy Relief Workers

(Left and Right) Mercy Medical Center’s Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Aaron Glatt, MD, and Gerry Lockwood, the hospital’s director of environmental services, welcomed Paul Beard and Laurence McCloud, leaders of the 24-member, out-of-state crew brought to Long Island by National Grid to assist in storm recovery.

With the post-Hurricane Sandy nor’easter bearing down on Long Island on November 7th, an out-ofstate tree-trimming crew in need of housing found a warm welcome— not to mention comfortable sleeping quarters, hot meals and showers—at Mercy Medical Center. The team from Storm Services, LLC, was brought to Long Island by National Grid to clear trees from power lines to facilitate restoration of electricity knocked out by Sandy. When the two dozen workers from Texas, Colorado and Florida contacted Mercy about the need for shelter from the gathering nor’easter, they stated, “The hospital just said to come on down and rolled out the red carpet for us.”

Mercy’s Environmental Services Department quickly and efficiently set up dormitory space near the hospital’s Emergency Department. It was the second time Mercy’s environmental services team was called to action to set up temporary shelter during the ongoing weather emergency. In advance of the hurricane, the hospital took in 40 patients evacuated from Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center in West Islip and 25 patients evacuated from a nursing home in Long Beach. Good Samaritan’s patients were returned to that facility shortly after Sandy passed, but Mercy has continued to provide housing for the nursing home patients more than a week after the storm.

NEWS

Community

Ateres Yaakov “Plows Through” Hurricane Sandy Although it was a valiant effort, Hurricane Sandy could not prevent Mesivta Ateres Yaakov talmidim from learning together with their Rabbeim throughout the aftermath of the horrific storm. Even with the Yeshiva’s building being left powerless, together with much of the Five Towns/Far Rockaway community, Ateres Yaakov mobilized to make the necessary accommodations in order that their talmidim could continue learning throughout this ordeal. Rabbi Yossi Bennett, Assistant Menahel, although evacuated from his home in Lawrence, began organizing a series of telephone conference shiurim with many of the Rabbeim in Queens and Brooklyn, who still had power. On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday following the storm, while the yeshiva as a whole was unable to function, a variety of shiurim were offered between the hours of 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM from different Rabbeim on a

as well, including talmidim from other yeshivas as well. One of the 10th grade Rabbeim, Rabbi Leibe Wolf, took it upon himself to organize a satellite location in Brooklyn for talmidim who remained stranded out there. Rabbi Bennett commented, “The Yeshiva building being inaccessible didn’t mean we could not learn with our talmidim. All it required was a little creativity, a little technology and participation from both our faculty and talmidim. Baruch Hashem, it was a tremendous success.” One shiur in particular, Rabbi Elysha Sandler’s 12th grade class, did not miss even one day of learning. From

wide range of topics. All in all, over 15 shiurim were offered and many talmidim took advantage of the opportunity to call in and participate in the live shiurim. Additionally, in conjunction with some creative and involved parents, the Mesivta was able to secure the Bais Medrash of Kew Gardens Hills for Thursday, Friday and the following Monday, where they held minyan, breakfast and shiur. Over 30 boys participated there

the first day of the storm, over 15 boys were on the phone with their Rebbe continuing the intensive learning for which Rabbi Sandler is famous. Even with the power out in the Mesivta, Rabbi Sandler met with a number of his talmidim to learn completely lishma in the Yeshiva’s Bais Medrash. Many talmidim also assisted in the enormous recovery effort, either by helping clean out flood-damaged homes or with the effort to properly dispose of

shaimos. Achiezer reached out to Ateres Yaakov, and the Mesivta and the Bais Medrash responded enthusiastically. One Woodmere resident, Mrs. Monique Hagler, who happens to be the school nurse at a number of the local yeshivos, required assistance in her home. She contacted Rabbi Bennett and, within hours, students were mobilized to assist her in her effort. Mrs. Hagler sent Rabbi Bennett the following text: “I just have to take a minute to tell you how impressed I am with the boys from MAY…They were beyond wonderful…Your school should be proud of the way they conducted themselves.” Even one of the

Mesivta’s math teachers, Mr. Howard Daar, answered the call and contributed in the effort. Commented Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, Menahel of the Mesivta, “As we all strive to reestablish a modicum of normalcy in our lives, giving people a sense of control when so much of our perceived control has been ripped away is crucial. We are doing our best to help our talmidim regulate their schedules again while simultaneously encouraging them to help the many others who need support and assistance. We are so proud of our talmidim who have been there for others during these trying times.”

51 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

This Sunday!

Rescheduled due to the storm

Tichon Meir Moshe

Bnos Bais Yaakov High School The Maurice Lowinger Campus

Open House

Sunday, November 18, 10:00 a.m.

Entrance Exam

Sunday, November 25, 10:00 a.m. or

Tuesday, November 27, 5:00 p.m. Rabbi Shmuel Hiller, Dean Due to overwhelming response, note change of location!

Mrs. Chaya Gornish

Principal Limudei Kodesh

Mrs. Adina Mandel

Principal General Studies

Mrs. Ruchie Sokoloff Dean of students

Quality Chinuch • Quality Education Ateres Nechama Liba Simcha Hall 613 Beach 9th Street • Far Rockaway, NY 11691 • Tel. 718.337.6000 ext. 337

OHEL Provides Structure and Comfort to Evacuated Residents OHEL Bais Ezra continues to provide shelter and services to many men and women with developmental disabilities evacuated from OHEL residences in Arlington, Woodmere, Hewlett and Lawrence. Many of these residents are being accommodated at The Regency Hotel in Brooklyn given the damage inflicted on a number of OHEL residences and which cannot be occupied in the immediacy – or some for months. The needs of individuals with disabilities at such disruptive times are much more severe and OHEL’s employees have been exhaustively working to help effectively manage what can otherwise be a most traumatic transition – even if temporary. OHEL Bais Ezra employees Miriam and Hadar helped evacuate the women from the Woodmere residence on the Sunday of the storm. Despite both experiencing significant loss and damage to their own homes, they have both continued to work tirelessly, counseling the adult women, helping them replace their list items – with little preoccupation for their own possessions that have been lost. The actions and dedication of staff and the house manager at OHEL Bais Ezra’s evacuated and severely damaged home in Arlington reflects the commitment of all OHEL employees to those in their care. Gordon, the house manager, was awake for three straight days, first sav-

ing people in the community as a firefighter and first-responder and then working with the families of the boys in the home as part of his OHEL responsibilities. Gordon waded through 5 feet of

toxic water in a wet suit throughout Monday night pulling people from their homes at incredible personal risk. He then did everything he could to protect and secure what was left of the OHEL Bais Ezra Arlington Road house. He was cheerful and upbeat despite knowing full well that his own home and personal belongings were destroyed.

NEWS

Community Democracy in Action

While the entire country was busy wrapping up the last few days of the election, Bnos Malka Academy decided to exercise their democratic rights by conducting their own presidential election. Since the beginning of the school year, all of the classes in grades K-8 have been learning about the elections in specially designed, age-appropriate curricula. Some of the lower grades spent time learning about the basics, such as the names of the candidates and their running mates, where the president lives and what the president does, while the older grades went into much more detail. Topics included the voting process, the Electoral College, how congress and the senate work, and the platforms of

both major political parties. The entire unit ended with a schoolwide mock election. Students received a ballot and went into a voting booth to ensure their ballot stayed secret! After all the votes were tallied, the winner of Bnos Malka’s mock election was Mitt Romney, with 243 votes. President Obama received 27 votes, while interestingly, there was one write-in for McCain. The students were eager to be a part of the national excitement of voting, and learned a lot about how the democratic process works. They are eagerly looking forward to next year’s mayoral election, when they will have the chance to voice their opinions about whole wheat bread for lunch!

Successful Bnos Malka Academy Open House On Tuesday November 6th, Bnos Malka held its annual open house. The prospective parents got a taste of what makes Bnos Malka Academy so special right from the moment they arrived until it was time to go. Each visitor received a warm, personal welcome from each member of the administration led by the Menahel, Rabbi Michael Wiechselbaum. The warmth continued on as the Bnos Malka Academy PA was on hand to greet visitors and provide delicious refreshments. Despite gasoline being in short supply, and time missed from work the previous week, the open house received a wonderful turn out and those who turned out received a wonderful, small appreciation gift. Rabbi Weichselbaum led an enlightening interactive presentation for the would-be parents that explained just what has made Bnos Malka Academy’s approach so successful and unique.

Rabbi Weichselbaum highlighted all the special qualities Bnos Malka Academy has to offer such as unparalleled school wide programming, educational philosophy designed for understanding as opposed to memorizing, dedication to midos tovos, and attention to each student as an individual. Parents were then broken into three groups and led on a tour to see the school in action. Visitors came away feeling assured they would be sending their children to a makom Torah with high academic standards as well as a loving, nurturing, and safe school that provides important life skills and prepares students for success in high school and beyond. If you would like to learn more about Bnos Malka Academy, please contact our office to set up a personal tour. Phone: 718-268-2667 email: office@bnosmalka.org.

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

NEWS

Community

Limud Hatorah and Chessed at Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island During Super StormSandy

The secular news continues to report that Hurricane Sandy was unprecedented in the scope of its wrath. Article after article details the resulting devastation. These news outlets, however, failed to describe the incredible chessed that came along with the storm’s fallout. The Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island witnessed both the destruction and the subsequent unbelievable outpouring of help. The Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island was spared, and while it’s normal operations were impeded because of the power outage, the building itself was intact. Although the Yeshiva itself fared well, the overwhelming majority of the

YKLI family was impacted. Some were inconvenienced for the short term while others were displaced for a longer period of time, while others experienced severe trauma and still others lost their homes. Given the interconnectedness of the Yeshiva, its students and their families, and the rabbeim, morahs and teachers, the entire YKLI community was affected by Sandy and everyone came together to support one another during this challenging time. From the onset, the administration worked together with the faculty and parent body to assess the situation and address the myriad immediate physical concerns. The Yeshiva was quickly transformed into a distribution hub ready to provide those in need with everything from food and basic supplies to cots and linen. The Yeshiva was an outlet of respite and relief for the Inwood community which was left without power for days. The Rabbeim displayed incredible mesiras nefesh as they made connecting and learning with their talmidim a priority regardless of their own challenging situations. Many of the local Rabbeim were significantly impacted by the storm

and they were in temporary housing with their families, yet they scheduled teleconferences with their students. The Rabbeim set up learning programs to maintain continuity and they helped their students process the chaotic events through the lens of Torah. Some Rabbeim gave shiurim in their homes for those boys who were able to attend, and other Rabbeim met with their students at YKLI even when the Yeshiva was not officially open. Both the Rabbeim and the students needed the strength they find only in the Bais Medrash and they were moser nefesh to attain it. Every student was encouraged to continue learning during the weeks immediately following the hurricane. Bolstered by communication with their Rabbeim and motivated further by the strategically developed emergency home-based learning program which included an extra special raffle for participants, the talmidim learned either at home or, when possible, at local shuls and yeshivas. Lessons about middos are always built into the YKLI curriculum, and now they were put into action. YKLI boys were active participants in the collec-

tion and distribution of supplies to the hardest hit in the Five Towns, Inwood and Far Rockaway. They cleaned out homes and tackled debris, they shopped for neighbors, visited the homebound, and helped care for displaced families that moved into their homes. Many students drew on the lessons they have learned about emunah and bitachon as they adjusted to their disrupted realities. They displayed unbelievable maturity as they helped their parents and reassured younger siblings. In an effort to ease the burden on the many parents who are going through an incredibly trying time, the Yeshiva is currently providing breakfast and lunch for all students. It is actively addressing the needs of families who continue to suffer the after-effects of the storm and the administration and faculty are working together to monitor the well-being of the boys on an ongoing basis. YKLI and its kehilla have always displayed incredible chessed to those in need. “The storm surprised us, yet our YKLI strength and achdus did not, we have cultivated it and now we draw on it,” says Rabbi Zvi Bajnon, Menahel. Again and again, the community has been there for families that have suffered. Now, confronted with need on such an incredibly large-scale, the YKLI family has responded in kind by delivering a massive and truly unprecedented outpouring of physical, spiritual, and financial support. YKLI extends its support to the entire community and hopes to be an integral part of the rebuilding of our vibrant makom Torah.

55 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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Women’s Day of Learning to Be Held in Brooklyn on Sunday The Kingsway Jewish Center of Brooklyn, in conjunction with the Orthodox Union Department of Community Services, announces its second Yom Iyun L’Nashim-Women’s Day of Learning on Sunday, November 18 beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Kingsway Catering Hall, 2902 Kings Highway. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. Leading educators throughout the day include: • 9:00 a.m.: Opening Remarks: Rebbetzin Esther Tokayer • 9:30 a.m.: Devorah Chasky, formerly of Midreshet Lindenbaum: “Cinderella, Macy’s and the Sages: A Theological Exploration of Clothing in Biblical and Aggadic Literature” • 10:30 a.m.: Yael Krumbein, Professor of History at Touro College: “A Day in the Life of a Jewish Woman in Medieval Times”

• 12:30 p.m.: Professor Smadar Eliach Rosensweig, Professor of Bible at Stern College for Women of Yeshiva University, and Biblical Studies at Allegra Franco Sephardic Women’s Teachers College: “Women at the Cross Roads of Leadership, in Tanach” Refreshments will be available all day and a light lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The event (which includes all lectures, refreshments, handouts and lunch) for those who pre-register is $20 for Kingsway members and $35 for non-members. For walk-ins, the price is $25 for Kingsway members and $40 for non-members. To register, call OU Community Services at 212.613.8300, or Kingsway Jewish Center at 718.258.8300.

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Shalhevet Seniors Travel to New Hampshire for Senior Shabbaton By Dani Elman On October 18th, the graduating class of 2013 traveled to New Hampshire to spend Shabbat with Rabbi and Rebbetzin Friedman. Students and their chaperones, Mr. and Mrs. Zeitz, left after the formal school day had ended and were excited for the six hour bus ride. On the way up north, they spent time talking, singing, watching movies and, when it started getting late, they settled down to take naps. Finally, they arrived at the inn at 1:00 AM where Rabbi Friedman and his wife were waiting with a delicious meal. Soon the seniors found their rooms, unpacked and went to sleep. The next day Rabbi Friedman brought the students on a tour of New Hampshire. They went on a beautiful hike where they were able to enjoy the area’s gorgeous scenery and traveled to Mount Washington to visit the Cog Railway and museum that explained its purpose and construction. The fun continued as they stopped by the Mount Washington Resort, a hotel famous for its magnificence before exploring the world’s longest candy aisle, Chutters. The students

had a wonderful time! After the eventful day, the seniors were really looking forward to a relaxing Shabbat. Rabbi and Mrs. Friedman lead the meals and the seniors joined in, singing zmeirot, eating delicious food, and spending quality time with friends. The Shabbat day meal was followed by a walking tour of New Hampshire’s sites, a tour lead by Rabbi and Rebbetzin Friedman. The seniors continued on an inspired note on Motzei Shabbat as they gathered around a bonfire hosted by the Friedmans and bonded over memories and good times spent at their beloved school. At 12:00 AM, the buses were boarded and the students began the trip back home. They arrived at 5:45 AM, sad to conclude what had become the most meaningful Shabbaton of their high school experience. A special thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Zeitz for chaperoning the trip, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Friedman for welcoming us into their home and planning a wonderful trip, and to the Shalhevet faculty who made the event possible.

Conversation with Alan Dershowitz to Be Held At YU Yeshiva University’s Zahava and Moshael Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought will present a conversation between Professor Alan M. Dershowitz and Rabbi Dr. Meir Soloveichik on Tuesday, November 20 at 7 p.m. in Weissberg Commons, 2495 Amsterdam Avenue, on YU’s Wilf campus. The event, titled “From Sodom to Nuremberg: A Conversation about Genesis, Justice and Law,” is free and open to the public. Dershowitz, a Felix Frankfurter Professor of Law at Harvard Law School, is a graduate of Yeshiva University High Schools and has published hundreds of articles in numerous publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, The New Republic and Commentary. He is the author of 27 fiction and non-fiction works with a worldwide audience. Dershowitz’s most recent titles include Rights From Wrong, The Case For Israel, The Case For Peace and The Case For Moral Clarity: Israel, Hamas and Gaza. “As the Straus Center’s academic

theme this year is ‘Jewish and Western Philosophies of Law,’ I am especially delighted and grateful that Professor Dershowitz, one of America’s most prominent figures in both the legal world and in Jewish public life, has graciously agreed to visit Yeshiva and engage our students,” said Soloveichik, director of the Straus Center. The Straus Center is named in honor of Moshael J. Straus, an investment executive, alumnus and member of YU’s Board of Trustees, and his wife Zahava, a graduate of YU’s Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law. The Center’s mission is to help develop Jewish thinkers and wisdom-seeking Jews by deepening their education in the best of the Jewish tradition, by exposing them to the richness of human knowledge and insight from across the ages, and by confronting them with the great moral, philosophical, and theological questions of our age. Please RSVP to strauscenter@ yu.edu. For more information, please visit www.yu.edu/straus.

57 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

SALE DATES NOVEMBER 18 - 24, 2012

16.5 OZ

GOLD MEDAL FLOUR ALL PURPOSE OR UNBLEACHED 5 LB

1.99

ARNOLD’S STUFFING

RONZONI OVEN READY OR CURLY LLS, LASAGNE, JUMBO SHELLS, MANICOTTI 2 $

PLAIN OR SEASONED 14 OZ/15 OZ

POWERADE

COKE, DIET COKE, ZERO, FRESCA, SPRITE, DR. PEPPER R 2 LITER 4$

ALL FLAVORS 32 OZ

79¢

BARILLA PASTA PLUS

KEEBLER 9” PIE SHELLS

ALL VARIETIES 14.5 OZ

6 OZ

OXI CLEAN

DOMINO SUGAR LIGHT OR DARK BROWN, CONFECTIONERS 10X OR BROWNULATED 14 OZ/16 OZ

VERSATILE STAIN REMOVER 6 LB CONTAINER

89¢

10.99

KELLOGG’S 12 OZ CRISPIX OR 18 OZ CORN FLAKES

V8 JUICES

ALL VARIETIES 46 OZ

2.49

KING ARTHUR FLOUR ALL VARIETIES 5 LB

3.99

KELLOGG’S FROSTED FLAKES OR RICE KRISPIES

3.99

LAFFY TAFFY JARS MIXED VARIETY ONLY 145 COUNT

6.99

32 OZ

1.99

BREAKSTONE SOUR CREAM

ASSORTED 16 OZ

FROZEN SUPER SA SALES ALL FLAVORS 48 OZ

3.49

MACABEE MACABABIE PIZZA BAGELS 20 OZ

GOLDEN FLOW CHOPPED SPINACH 32 OZ $

5.99

137 SPRUCE STREET

NIBLETS, SHOEPEG, MEXICAN - 11 OZ

SPLENDA SUGAR SUBSTITUTE

100 COUNT

3.99

PASKESZ MARSHMALLOWS ASSORTED 8 OZ

VANITY FAIR NAPKINS 100 COUNT ALL OCCASION OR 40 COUNT DINNER

MIKE & IKE 16 OZ BAG

2.99

MAZOLA OIL CANOLA, CORN, VEGETABLE, CORN PLUS - 48 OZ

4.99

OCEAN SPRAY CRAISINS

PLAIN OR FLAVOR INFUSED - 10 OZ

3.99

PFEIFFER SALAD LAD D DRESSINGS ASSORTED 16 OZ

PAPER HOUSE HOT CUPS WITH LIDS 20 COUNT 12 OZ 16 COUNT 16 OZ

PARTY PACK GUSHERS OR VARIETY PACK FRUIT BY THE FOOT 9.6 OZ

5.99

COFFEE MATE CREAMERS ASSORTED 32 OZ

3.99

PHILADELPHIA CREAM CHEESE

HA’OLAM MARGARINE

ASSORTED 8 OZ CUPS

16 OZ

CEDARHURST, NY 516-569-2662

FRESH & HEALTHY COTTAGE CHEESE ASSORTED 16 OZ

MILLER’S SHREDDED CHEESE

1.79

ASSORTED 8 OZ

2.79

LA YOGURT ALL VARIETIES 6 OZ

5.99

LENDER’S BAGELS ALL VARIETIES 12 OZ

GOOD HUMOR ICE CREAM ASSORTED 18 OZ

3.99

HAAGEN DAZS ICE CREAM ASSORTED 28 OZ

5.99

.............................................................

EDY’S ICE CREAM

GREEN GIANT CORN

COOL SAVINGS ON FROZEN .....................

TREE RIPE ORANGE JUICE 2 $ 00 2 $ ASSORTED

.....................

FARMLAND SKIM PLUS MILK

GOLDEN FLOW CHOLOV YISRAEL MILK

59 OZ

1.99

DAIRY DEALS

DAIRY SUPER SALES ASSORTED 64 OZ

64 OZ

.....................

8 OZ, 16 OZ

APPLE & EVE NATURAL CRANBERRY OR Y CRAN RASPBERRY

.....................

WHOLE BERRY OR JELLIED 14 OZ

40 OZ

.....................

OCEAN SPRAY CRANBERRIES

PRINCELLA CUT YAMS

.....................

15 OZ

VINTAGE SELTZER

1 LITER

.....................................................................

DUNCAN HINES YELLOW CAKE MIX

LIBBY’S 100% PURE PUMPKIN

.....................................................................

SUPER SALES ON GROCERIES .....................................................................

GROCERY SUPER S SALES S

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

EGGO NUTRI-GRAIN WAFFLES ALL VARIETIES 12.3 OZ

2.99 FAX 516-569-8376

RICH WHIP TOPPING 8 OZ

99¢

FRESH & FROZEN GEFILTE FISH 22 OZ

3.99

MCCAIN FRENCH FRIES ASSORTED 20 OZ - 32 OZ

2.99

Under the Strict Supervision of the VAAD of the 5 Towns

MORE SELECTION! PREMIUM MEAT & POULTRY

FROZEN TURKEY

1ST CUT BRISKET..... SHOULDER LONDON BROIL........

2.49 LB

BREAST OF VEAL.....

CORNED $ BEEF 1ST CUT BRISKET

8.99 LB 7.99 LB

$ BREAST OF LAMB.....

7.49 LB

WITH MINIMUM PURCHASE OF $125.00 NON-SALE ITEMS

6.99 LB

CHICKEN LEGS..........

99¢

SNAPPLE E ICED TEA

SUPER FAMILY PACK

2.49 LB

99¢

JUMBO CANTALOUPE

2 $

$ BAG CLEMENTINES

3 LB BAG

SLICING TOMATO......

4.99EA

SLEEVE CELERY.....

89¢

KIRBY.......

3 79¢

CHEX CEREALS ALL VARIETIES 13.5 OZ - 14 OZ

3 $

BABY CARROTS

4 89¢

1 LB BAG

EGGPLANT

TAKE OUT

DAIRY

1 LB CHICKEN MEATLOAF PLUS 1 LB EGG BARLEY PLUS 1 LB HEALTH SALAD..................

EGGPLANT PARMIGIANA...............

11.99 $ 5.99 QT $ 4.99 LB

MEATLOAF APPROX 1 1/2 LB.

CHICKEN GUMBO SOUP............. ITALIAN TOMATO SALAD...........

THE FRESHEST & TASTIEST SUSHI IN TOWN!

7.99

CONTAINER

6.99

SALAD NICOISE.......................... CONTAINER

6.99 LB $ 1.99 EA

CALIFORNIA ROLL

VOLCANO CRUNCH

4.50

5.50

10.95

MANGO AVOCADO ROLL

9.95

4.95

OSSIE’S FISH

SPICY TUNA AVOCADO ROLL

5.95

CALL 516-569-2662 AND ASK FOR THE SUSHI DEPARTMENT DON’T SEE IT? ASK - WE WILL BE HAPPY TO MAKE IT FOR YOU!

1.49 EA

PACKAGE OF 8

RED OCEAN ROLL

100% WHOLE WHEAT ROLLS

FAMILY PACK

VEGETABLE ROLL

BUNGALOW BAR................ ASSORTED - PACKAGE OF 4

TILAPIA FILLET......................

ORDER YOUR SHABBOS PLATTERS EARLY!

ALIZA BEER NUTRITIONAL MEALS 6 ADDITIONAL VARIETIES TO CHOOSE FROM!

MEZONOS BAGELS.............

HOMEMADE SALMON BURGERS...............................

WINNER BEST SUSHI AWARD!

ZOMICK’S BAKERY ORDER YOUR CUSTOM PICTURE CAKES AT THE BAKERY COUNTER!

2 $

DELI & TAKE OUT DINNER SPECIAL!

ALL FLAVORS 16 OZ/12 PACK

6.99

79¢ 2 $

10.99

ANJOU PEAR...........

HOUSE BLEND ONLY 12 OZ

NOW AVAILABLE! BUNCH RADISH PRE-CHECKED & PRE-PACKAGED SOUP ENS GREENS

TASTER’S CHOICE E INSTANT COFFEE

8.99 LB

FRESH PRODUCE GRANNY SMITH APPLES

BUYS OF THE WEEK!

PARVE APPETIZING THIS WEEK AT SCHWARTZ’S DIP ISLAND!

10.99 LB

TILAPIA FILLET....................

OSSIE’S TRI-COLOR GEFILTE FISH PAN.............................

5.99 EA

5.99 LB

READY TO HEAT & EAT!

12.99 EA

FLORAL SPECIALS! $ $ MUM BOUQUETS.................... THANKSGIVING ARRANGEMENTS 34.99 9.99 BUNCH $ $ FALL HARVEST BOUQUET...... SEASONAL PLANT BASKETS........ 19.99 19.99 BUNCH

YERUSHALMI-STYLE EGGPLANT DIP

7 OZ 7 OZ

GARDEN VEGETABLE SOUP............... YERUSHALMI KUGEL.........................

& UP

2.49 EA 2.49 EA

SPINACH DIP

MASHED POTATOES.......................... AT THE COUNTER

4.99 QT $ 2.99 EA $ 2.99 LB

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We reserve the right to limit quantities. No rain checks. Not responsible for typographical errors.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

SALE DATES NOVEMBER 18 - 24, 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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HAFTR Students Provide Hurricane Relief to Greater Community

Although many of our students’ and teachers’ families have endured significant hardships in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, these past weeks have been a time of resilience, heroism, friendship and support in the HAFTR community. Three days after the storm, when the High School building’s electric power and internet were restored, HAFTR opened its High School to students for davening, breakfast, and learning with teachers who were available to come to school. Students were delighted to connect with one another—and to connect their smart phones and computers to HAFTR’s power sources. Students were welcomed back to school last Monday with smiles by their friends, teachers and administrators. Monday was a day of healing, reflection and chesed. Students shared their stories as staff members listened and were amazed by their bravery. Each morning, breakfast was available in the HAFTR Lower School for anyone who wanted, as parents continued to fill the snack bins. Replacement school supplies, backpacks and uniforms were organized in the hallway. As the temperature dropped outside, coats were brought in for students to wear home. The community came together in a most special way. It was heartwarming to learn that HAFTR families went all out to take in other families. Everyone was most appreciative of the hot lunches provided to students. HAFTR students were eager to engage in chesed activities on behalf of those who suffered devastating losses in the storm. Groups of students accompanied by adult chaperones went out into the community to pitch in with the cleanup effort. Students were honored to assist HAFTR High School’s own Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Gedaliah Oppen.

Unfortunately, like many others in our community, the Oppens lost a tremendous library of seforim that needed to be disposed of properly. Students retrieved over 40 heavy bags of seforim from Rabbi Oppen’s home. Rabbi Moskowitz, HAFTR High School’s Director of Student Activities, and the students made four trips in the cold, blustery rain to deliver the seforim to Achiezer at Yeshiva Sh’or Yoshuv. The students were happy to have the opportunity to help in such a meaningful way, but sad that it had to be done at all. Mrs. Laurie Teperman of Ohel contacted HAFTR to inform them that the Ohel Bais Ezra home for children with special needs on Arlington Road was devastated and had to be evacuated. All the residents were relocated safely to Brooklyn, but their belongings were left in the home. Since it will take months until the residents are able to return, their belongings needed to be packed up and sent to them in Brooklyn. Rabbi Moskowitz asked a group of students to come in shifts during their lunch periods to the Ohel home to help organize and pack the residents’ belongings. Students volunteered to give up their lunch break to go room to room packing clothing, personal effects, toiletries, kitchen supplies and whatever could be salvaged. Thousands of dollars of merchandise was recovered and marked so that it could be brought back to the respective clients. HAFTR has been coordinating their students’ chesed with Achiezer. Students served food to people who were grateful for a hot meal. After serving lunch, the students moved to another room where they worked to sort through the piles of donations dropped off. They organized the toiletries, because people were coming to Sh’or Yoshuv request-

ing basic items such mouthwash, toothpaste and brushes, soap, and shampoo. Girls worked at Sh’or Yoshuv, helping to set up the clothing “store” and the boys went to homes in Cedarhurst, Far Rockaway and Long Beach to assist in the cleanup. Students also assisted Achiezer with the very physical task of handling truckloads of shaimos that were being dropped off at Sh’or Yoshuv. Enormous bags laden with precious and

once valuable seforim were hoisted onto the trucks. The students’ job was to assist those dropping off the seforim and load them deep into the truck to make room for additional shipments. Burial is being arranged for three truckloads of sifrei kodesh. HAFTR students will continue to work with Achiezer in providing assistance to those in need as a result of the brutal storm.

61 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n N O V EM B E R 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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Hurricane Hospitality –“Our Home Is Your Home” By Lorey Friedman The Jewish Heritage Center, a prominent Kiruv Center headquartered locally on Main Street, offered outreach of a different kind in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Barely had the storm

how nice the Kew Gardens Hills com- have to be split up in sevmunity is to them. They are amazed at eral places, at least the how accommodating the Jewish Heri- boys will have their dortage Center has been to them as they fill mitories and their belongtheir Queens Kiruv center from early in ings back, as two out of the morning until late at their three living quarters The Jewish Heritage Center of Queens, located on Main Street, night. Guests at the JHC, were unharmed. The long takes in Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh after Hurricane Sandy destroys their own building in Bayswater. the talmidim cannot con- term goal of Yeshiva Zivey enough how com- chron Aryeh , this yeshiva Gardens Hills and our electricity stayed fortable and welcome very much known for the close relation- on, the Jewish Heritage Center seized they are made to feel at ship between Rebbe and student, is to this bracha to mobilize their own rethe Jewish Heritage Cen- build a new yeshiva they can call home, sources with their students and alumni, ter. on property they had purchased in Bay- doing whatever they can to assist those As most of the ZA swater. Baruch Hashem, this piece of in need. With many of their students student’s dorm in the ye- land was spared by Sandy. In the mean- and alumni living in the affected areas, shiva, many of the boys time, while raising funds and acquiring the JHC has reached out, offering housare now staying by local building permits, Rabbi Cohen is hoping ing and assistance not only to their own families in our neighbor- to rent trailers to use on the plot of land. students and alumni but to the general hood. The outpouring The set up costs including the rental, community as well. People were placed of hospitality that Kew moving and securing of such large, por- for Shabbos and when needed, for much Gardens Hills has of- table temporary housing is very expen- longer periods of time. As in other shuls fered to those in need is a sive. Despite the possibility of a long in our neighborhood, this past Shabbos, Talmidim of Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh are now guests, learning at remarkable testimony to wait until the building is finished, Ye- the JHC was completely overflowing the Jewish Heritage Center since hurricane Sandy destroyed their yeshiva in Bayswater. L-R: Yanky Weber, Yaakov Rosenthal, the extent of chesed and shiva Zichron Aryeh remains loyal to its with refugees joining their minyanim. Meir Parry, Ben Packer hachnosas orchim in our community of Bayswater as this is home At this time as in all times, visitors and winds abated, when the JHC reached community. to the yeshiva’s staff, kollel and alumni. guests joining the JHC are made to feel out to Rabbi Shaya Cohen, Rosh HaYesSome the ZA students were not pre- It also offers more affordable housing to welcome and comfortable with warm hiva of Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh and viously aware of the work of greetings sincerely ofKollel Ner Yehoshua, whose yeshiva, the Jewish Heritage Center fered to all. Truthfully housed in the Agudah of Bayswater , which under the direction of speaking, the JHC minyan was destroyed by the flooding waters of Rabbi Naftali Portnoy and has a reputation of bethe Hurricane. With true empathy and Rabbi Moshe Turk has built ing a warm, friendly and open arms, the rabbis of the JHC invited up a reputation for being one inviting atmosphere in Rabbi Cohen to bring his talmidim to of the most highly respected all types of weather. It is Queens and make the JHC their tempo- organizations in the Kiruv these characteristics (courary new Makom Torah. world. After learning o f the pled with a very quiet davThe main Beis Medrash of Yeshiva JHC’s mission, they realized ening) that have made it a Zichron Aryeh (ZA) was a painful sight that they are amongst people favorite place to daven for as over six feet of water flooded the who as one talmid put it, so many local residents. room, destroying furniture and seforim. “practice what they preach.” Despite the disruption One dormitory was completely ru- After all, the JHC is the very in normalcy, the talmiined leaving the talmidim without their embodiment of true outdim of Yeshiva Zichron home. Therefore, when the JHC called reach. They exemplify that Aryeh credit their positive Rabbi Cohen with the first offer of help they are there to help the outlook and understandhe received and invited ZA to Queens, affiliated and unaffiliated, ing of the whole situation Rabbi Shaya Cohen, Rosh Hayeshiva of Yeshiva Zichron Aryeh, speaks to his he gratefully accepted the chesed. It was reach out to them and bring that Hurricane Sandy has Talmidim at the JHC, while they await the return of power in Bayswater. a smart and feasible move, as many of them under their “wing.” put them in to their Rosh the yeshiva’s talmidim are from Queens Though the devastation of Sandy has their excellent, dedicated Rebbeim than HaYeshiva, Rabbi Cohen. His philosoand others knew members of the Queens shut down Zichron Aryeh’s building in other neighboring areas. phy of believing that everything hapcommunity where they could stay. Bayswater, the Jewish Heritage Center Well-known for their small, engag- pens for a reason , and that good will In fact, the students of Yeshiva Zi- of Queens has allowed their learning to ing classes and shiurim, the interaction come from this, is spread throughout the chron Aryeh seem to really like being continue without interruption. between students and Rebbeim in Zi- yeshiva and into the hearts and minds of in Kew Gardens Hills. The hustle and The staff of the JHC says that they chron Aryeh is huge. The new building his students. bustle, not to mention the many eateries consider it not just their responsibil- will include a gym, pool and many other The appreciation that Yeshiva Ziat their “fingertips,” is something they ity but their zchus to be able to extend facilities and amenities that will allow chron Aryeh has towards The Jewish didn’t have available to them, as easily themselves to such a chashuva yeshiva the many unique programs that Zichron Heritage as well as to the Kew Gardens as on Main Street. As one talmid com- such as Zichron Aryeh. Aryeh offers to prosper. One of them is Hills community knows no bounds. mented, “I could eat breakfast, lunch and After power is restored to Bayswa- their famous teacher training program Perhaps Rabbi Shaya Cohen puts it best dinner, just by going across the street to ter, Zichron Aryeh plans to move back preparing men to be leaders in Chinuch. when he says, “Outreach to the Jewish Seasons or Naomi’s pizza.” The young to their “Shabbos building.” While this While Baruch Hashem the brunt of Heritage Center, is not just a word of men are also remarkably impressed with is far from ideal, since the students will the destruction of Sandy spared Kew fashion, but a word of passion.”

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Rambam Mesivta Ravens Trip Odyssey to Memphis This year, the Rambam Ravens Varsity Basketball team from Rambam Mesivta, along with Coach Judah and Carol Rhine, traveled to Memphis for a “once in a lifetime” experience at the annual Cooper Yeshiva Invitational Basketball Tournament. As it turned out, the experience was much more than a basketball tournament. The tournament featured Varsity Basketball teams from sixteen yeshivahs that spanned the USA including California, Florida, Chicago, as well as several yeshivas from the local NY- NJ metro area. Rambam’s participation represented the culmination of seven months of planning and anticipation. Finally, on Thursday morning, October 25th, the team met at the Delta terminal in La Guardia Airport, all wearing their brand new Ravens warmups and set out on a journey that would be memorable for many reasons beyond basketball. Upon our arrival at the Memphis airport, we were met at the gate by a tournament official and we were transported via bus to the official hotel of the tournament—the Doubletree of Memphis. We were given a variety of tournament goodies—shirts, bags, kippahs—and then quickly unpacked in our rooms and boarded our 15 passenger van to the JCC of Memphis. The sight was overwhelming—two courts, two simultaneous games and all other the participating schools waiting on the sidelines for their scheduled games to begin. Our opening round game was against the nationally ranked YULA. Despite being “outheighted” and being down 23-8 after the 1st quarter, we managed to play even with them the rest of the way. By virtue of our competitiveness, we were hoping for a “higher seed” going into the Tier 2 tournament which was to start on Friday. Following all the 1st round games, we all headed back to the hotel to get ready for the tournament’s opening night BBQ which took place at Congregation Anshei Sephard. First, we all met in the shul for maariv, followed by an opening Dvar Torah by Rambam’s own Rafi Cooper. At the BBQ, the featured speaker was former NBA star Damon Stoudemire who gave insight into life in the NBA. Finally, the seeding was revealed for the rest of the Tournament and indeed Rambam moved up to the 5th seed and a date with the Atlanta Lions on Friday. Following Shacharis, we all headed back to the JCC for that day’s games. In a hard

fought see/saw battle, we defeated Atlanta and moved onto the semifinals. One of the highlights of the tournament weekend is the Shabbos spent in the Memphis Jewish community. All the teams prepared for Shabbos and we drove to yet another shul, Baron Hirsch, for Kabbalat Shabbat. Following davening, all the tournament participants remained seated while Josh Kahane, the tournament director, called out each participant’s name and matched him up with a host family for Friday night dinner. Several members of each team were grouped to go to a different host’s home. This took no more than 15 minutes as all the players, coaches and visitors were spread out around the Memphis Jewish community and were treated to a sumptuous home-cooked meal filled with Southern hospitality. This was an incredibly personal and warm touch. Following Shabbat dinner, all met at the Cooper Yeshiva for an Oneg that featured Joel Chasnoff, an extremely entertaining Jewish comedian who had most of the crowd “rolling on the floor.” Shabbos morning davening took place at the Cooper Yeshiva and was followed by several Divrei Torah from each of the schools. After a beautiful kiddush with a southern touch, all the Tournament participants then proceeded to the Cooper Yeshiva Beit Midrash where we heard two terrific speakers, Chris Wallace, the General Manager of the NBA Memphis Grizzlies, who is also

involved with AIPAC; and Jonny Halpert, coach of the YU Basketball team for forty years who gave his perspective on coaching young Jewish athletes in today’s’ world. Following lunch and Mincha, we all had menucha until Maariv and Havdalah. One of the other highlights of the tournament was the Cooper Yeshiva Basketball Tournament National 3 Point Competition. Each of the sixteen participating teams designated one player to participate in this exciting competition. Sixteen participants start off on Thursday of the tournament and have 60 seconds to score as many 3 point shots as possible. The top 8 scorers of the 1st round proceed to the 2nd Round on Friday. The top four scorers of the 2nd Round proceed to National Semi-Finals on Motzei Shabbat. The top two scorers of the Semis then proceed to the National Championship on Sunday where the top scorer is crowned 3 Point Champion. Rambam’s own Shmuel Rosenthal shocked everyone (except for himself and his Rambam teammates) and succeeded in winning the National 3 Point Championship and the large trophy that went along with it. Rambam’s participation in the Cooper Tournament was a huge success. But the story does not end there. As early as Sunday morning, just prior to our last game, we received news reports of the impending Hurricane and, as a result,

the cancellation of flights (including our Sunday evening flight) and the closure of the NY area airports. We gathered the team together and had each player immediately contact their parents and inform them that we would be staying in Memphis for a bit longer than what we anticipated. We started making plans for the next several days. Each morning we davened Shachris at the Cooper Yeshiva along with the other three schools that were stranded – SAR, FRISCH and North Shore. This was followed by breakfast, a shiur by the principal of the Yeshiva, some free time, and then lunch. Each afternoon, we visited different places in Memphis. Each evening we had dinner at a different host’s home. The Memphis Jewish Community opened up their hearts and homes to us and we are sincerely grateful for their warmth and hospitality. Although we were far away, we kept a close eye on the events back home and of course our thoughts and feelings were with our families. We kept monitoring the situation back in New York as everyone was anxious to return home to their loved ones. Finally, on Thursday, November 1st, La Guardia opened up and we were able to secure a flight back on that afternoon. It was a welcome relief to know that all the boys would be reunited safely with their families.

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Brooklyn Kinus Inspires Thousands in Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy By Daniel Keren Close to a thousand men and women from all parts of Brooklyn came this past Monday night to be a part of a Kinus Chizuk v’Hisorerus in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. The storm devastated many Jewish communities in the Metropolitan New York area and impoverished thousands of families. The event was organized by Agudath Israel of America and held at the Agudas Yisroel Bais Binyomin in Flatbush. It was also broadcast live to locations throughout North America, including Albany, Baltimore, Cincinnati, Chicago, Green Bay, Lawrence, Minneapolis, Ottawa, Scranton, South Bend and was available by phone through Kol Halashon. Sharing the Pain of Our Fellow Jews Rabbi Yehiel Kalish, Agudath Israel’s National Director of Government Affairs, chaired the event. He opened by saying that we are here tonight to feel and share in the pain of our fellow Jews whose homes have been destroyed. Hashem’s Holding Back the Waters from the Dry Land HaRav Yaakov Perlow, shlita, the Novominsker Rebbe and Rosh Agudas Yisroel, explained that Dovid Hamelech wrote in Sefer Tehillim in the kapittel of Borchi Nafshi that the world originally contained only water. Hashem then ordained that the waters should recede, thereby creating dry land and allowing mankind to live. The waters of the seas were not happy with this limitation, and therefore the waves constantly pound the shore, trying to reassert themselves. But Hashem holds them back. When we

see a change in this eternal pattern, we need to perceive it as the act of Hakodesh Baruch Hu and not an aberration of nature. He also said that in the haftorah of Yom Kippur, the pasuk from Yeshayahu describes the reshoyim as extremely violent, emitting reshis v’tit, refuse and mud. When Hashem decides to punish the wickedness of man, the waters of the sea that are usually held back from encroaching on dry land are allowed to come forth. The Rebbe also drew attention to the incredible demonstration of ahavas Yisroel that has been displayed by Yidden in the past 10 days. The Destruction of the Seagate Kehillah HaRav Zalman Lieb Meisels, shlita, Rav of K’hal Yereim in Seagate, was the second speaker of the evening. He mesmerized the audience as he described the terrible devastation experienced by almost all of the families living in the waterside community. He praised the hundreds of volunteers who came from far and wide to help all of the communities in the massive clean-up effort.Rav Meisels also

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spoke of the large amounts of resources that will be needed to restore and repair the damage inflicted on those living in Seagate. He concluded by stating that the Abishter will surely help all Yidden who generously give help to His kinderlach. The Pain is Real HaRav Yaakov Bender, shlita, the Rosh Hayeshiva of Yeshiva Darchei Torah in hard-hit Far Rockaway, clarified the dire situation on the ground. He vividly described how the storm waters rushed into basement and walk-in apartments and explained that anyone who lived in such dwellings lost all they had. He poignantly described the pain and embarrassment of people who have never asked others for help who now need to do so. Another aspect of the loss inflicted on those in the affected areas is the total loss of treasured family heirlooms, including irreplaceable photographs. These were literally washed away. Rav Bender described his own loss – that of notes he had taken when learning in the shiurim of the Mirrer Roshei Yeshiva, Rav Shmuel Birnbaum, zt”l and Rav Shmuel Brudny, zt”l, more than 40

years ago – that were totally destroyed – priceless divrei Torah reduced to shaimos. He concluded by saying that “none of us should be able to sleep at night when reflecting that there are thousands of Yidden, many our friends, relatives and colleagues at work who have lost everything.” Excruciating and Challenging Times Concluding the evening of Chizuk v’Hisorerus were remarks made by the Morah D’asra of the Agudas Yisroel Bais Binyomin, HaRav Moshe Tuvia Lieff, shlita. He quoted the Rambam in Hilchos Tainas in which he writes that if there is pain and suffering in a community, even those who were not directly affected need to understand that the message is relevant to them as well. Rabbi Lieff concluded by quoting the motto of the United Jewish Appeal – “Give until it hurts!” We have to say – “Give until it stops hurting!” And the participants took his words to heart as they converged on the tables outside the bais medrash to generously assist those who need all we can give at this time.

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Home Is Where The Heart Is By Michele Justic Where can you turn when your house is flooded and all around you is coldness and darkness? When people began climbing out of the mess from Hurricane Sandy, the answer came in through phone calls, messages, and any form of communication possible: Come to Chabad!

Truck with basis supplies and necessities arrives from Kemp Mill Synagogue of Silver Spring, MD

It began the first Wednesday after the storm. As soon as power was turned on at the shul, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Wolowik and Rabbi and Rebbetzin Geisinsky immediately got to work, thinking of how they could be of help to the community. Everyone had been trapped at home for a couple of days, most often without power and sometimes even in unsafe conditions. So they decided to open up the shul to anyone to gather together socially and, on a practical note, to recharge any electronics. Our Sages note that one good deed often leads to another and in this case, Nachi Light of QCumbers selflessly decided to prepare fresh foods for everyone, free of charge all day long. The day succeeded at boosting the spirits of all involved but unfortunately, it became readily apparent that the tragic post-Sandy losses would not be over in one day. Chabad continued to invite the community to come in and invited donations of food and necessary products. Morning, noon, and night, and anytime in between, Chabad was the only place to go for many stuck in cold homes without proper food. Hot food was served all day long thanks to Amnon’s Pizza, Brach’s, Carlos and Gabby’s, ChapA-Nosh, Chosen Island, Coffee Bar, Genadeen Caterers, Gotta Getta Bagel, Gourmet Glatt, Masbia, Maspikay Mazon, Oasis Caterers, Ossie’s Fish, Q’Cumbers, Schwartz Appetizing, and many anonymous sponsors. Entertainment was provided for the children and

as each day passed, others stepped up to the plate as well such as the pediatricians from Long Island Pediatrics who offered to check out any possibly sick children free of charge, regardless of if they were previously their patients. Lev Leytzan, the therapeutic clown troupe, came to entertain. The children enjoyed the captivating stories told by professional storyteller Rabbi Benny Wieglus. Social workers from Chai Lifeline and Ohel came to offer free counseling services to counter the emotional havoc that had been wrought. Products such as NASA engineered thermal blankets, gloves, and socks, and more down-to-earth products such as toothpaste and soap were made available to thousands of families thanks to donations from Mr. Stanley Schuckman of Schuckman Realty, Congregation Ahavas Chesed-Ridnik of the Upper West Side, the Kemp Mill Synagogue of Silver Spring, MD, and many more sponsors. Throughout the weeks, thousands of people had come to Chabad for their needs. It also became clear that many could not come to Chabad. Many had cars washed away, elderly had nonfunctioning elevators, and others were just too traumatized to move. Chabad took it upon themselves to make regular deliveries throughout town of food and other products. Volunteers from all over came to assist in helping the homebound. They also helped in cleanup ef-

Neighborhood children enjoy the captivating stories of professional storyteller Rabbi Benny Wieglus

forts, carpet removal, etc. Tamar Steinman was happy to have Chabad to turn to. Faced with a cold, powerless house and three young children, Tamar and her family were forced to relocate three times in the course of

two weeks. When she decided to take her grandparents, who suffered terrible damages to their Belle Lev Leytzan, professional clown troupe, entertains the crowd Harbor home, to Chabad for some respite, Tamar truly Wolowiks and the Geisinskys know the saw Chabad’s effect. Everyone loved be- right thing to say all the time, even to ing there. Tamar said, “They didn’t feel people they didn’t know.” Devora even alone. People were reaching out. They brought her contractor to Chabad to see had other people to share their story what’s going on. He was amazed—he with. It was good for them. The next had no idea. Devora notes it was not the day, they called me up to ask me to take them there again.” Tamar helped out by boxing supplies and making deliveries. Her daughter also enjoyed her time at Chabad being watched by volunteers and coloring and making art projects and even a Shabbos party. Tamar describes the incredible people at Chabad, “They didn’t have power themselves but they were there every day with a warm smile L to R: Rosie Geisinsky, Binyomin Wolowik, giving, giving, giving.” Tamar notes, “It Yerachmiel Wolowik, and Shuey Geisinsky pregave people strength to have somewhere pare to deliver blankets to those without heat to go. They knew they could get a hot meal and feel welcomed.” devastation that brought tears to her eyes Paula Friedman, a Cedarhurst resi- “but seeing the good people were dodent who suffered small damage and had ing.” She notes, “You can’t capture the no power for a week, came to Chabad devastation and you can’t capture the every day. She set up breakfast. She good people were doing.” notes how people made friends there. In Last week, we read in the Torah poraddition to the camaraderie, everyone tion about the destruction of the city of also pitched in to help. Paula became Sodom, known for its vehement refusal acquainted with many personalities who to help guests, as contrasted with the acbenefited from Chabad’s warmth dur- tions of Avraham and Sarah, known for ing this crucial time. One woman from their above and beyond gracious treatOceanside was there every morning ment of guests of all sorts. In the afterbut finally, at the end of two weeks, she math of the terrible destruction wreaked came in wearing a sheitel and contact by Hurricane Sandy, the Five Towns lenses. She had the strength and convic- community witnessed an unprecedenttion to care for her looks once again and ed outpouring of hospitality, Avraham this was certainly a turning point. One and Sarah style. Residents all throughwoman couldn’t thank Paula enough for out town reached out to neighbors and watching her children while she took even those they did not know, to open care of matters at home. Paula notes, their homes to them. Chabad of the Five “People were always trying to cheer Towns did so on a grand scale to the enyou up. It wasn’t just the hot dinner, it tire community. was the warmth of the people. Teenagers Though much has been covered by were fighting over helping people—who generous donations, Chabad of the Five would serve dinner. This really brought Towns, acting as a first chesed responder out the best in people.” of sorts, laid out a lot of money on its Devora Krasnianski also lived in Ce- own. darhurst. In her area, water covered the To donate to Chabad of the Five cars and filled basements completely. Towns’ Hurricane Sandy Relief Fund, She relates, “At Chabad, I felt people please visit www.chabadfivetowns.com/ cared. People were there. There was hurricanesandy. food and whatever else we needed. The

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QJCC’s Global Day of Jewish Learning to Be Held This Sunday Gratitude, Hakaras Hatov, is the theme of the Queens Jewish Community Council’s Global Day of Jewish Learning scheduled for Sunday November 18th from 10-12 noon. Rabbi Yonason Sacks, the newly appointed Rosh HaYeshiva of Beis Medrash L’Talmud at Lander College for Men (LCM) in Kew Gardens Hills will examine the theme in a lecture entitled: “Our Responsibility to Each Other.” Rabbi Azarya Berzon, a senior Rosh Yeshivah at Lander College, will look at our tradition’s view of Hakaras Hatov with a talk on: “Why Should We Care?” A joint project of the Department of Community Programming of Lander College

Rabbi Azarya Berzon

Rabbi Yonason Sacks

for Men And Lander College for Women and the Queens Jewish Community Council, the program will take place at Lander College, 75-31 150th Street in Kew Gardens Hills. The public is welcome. Off-street parking is available. For information, call (718) 544-9033.

Mercy Marks Second Anniversary Of Lung Cancer Early-Detection Study Moving into the third year of its participation in international research on the value of CT lung scans in the early detection of lung cancer, Mercy Medical Center has screened nearly 650 participants and identified cancers in five individuals who otherwise might not have known of their condition. The research being conducting at Mercy is part of the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) and is similar to a study supported by the National Cancer Institute, which announced in 2010 that such scans can dramatically reduce lung cancer deaths. The program at Mercy continues offers a CT lung scan free-of-charge to current or former smokers age 50 or older, and individuals age 40 or older who have never smoked but have been

exposed to second-hand smoke. Any follow-up diagnostic testing recommended as a result of the screening are the participant’s financial responsibility but should be covered by their insurance carriers. Results, along with appropriate recommendations for follow-up, are sent to both participants and their primary care physicians. Since the program at Mercy began in November, 2010 more than 150 participants have received recommendations for follow-up, and five were treated for cancers detected by the screening. Information about the study is available on line at: www.ielcap.org. Individuals who would like to apply for participation in the research should call: 516-62MERCY.

NEWS

Community Lido Beach Weathers Hurricane

The greatest and most disastrous destructive force brought about by Sandy has affected the Lido Beach Synagogue Community tremendously. Our community has been without lights and heat for over two weeks and only now are we getting back to ourselves with a semblance us of normalcy. Amidst all of this turmoil, the Lido Beach family, our Morah D’asra, Rabbi Daniel H. Mehlman and his Rebbetzin Mimi, have worked tenaciously to continue to bring spirituality to maintain Shabbat services and positive chizuk to those have become depressed and frustrated at their plight. . A beautiful poem by Louise Hawkins reads as follows “And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.” And he replied “Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of G-d that shall be to you better then light and safer then a known way.” That is what the Lido Beach Synagogue family has desperately offered to all those who suffered so much and lost so much that we will survive through our

bitachon and strong faith in Hashem. It was amazing to see these past few Shabbatot, that in the midst of darkness, Lido Beach Synagogue conducted all the Shabbat davening and in fact, Rebbetzin Mimi prepared a hot cholent and kiddush to warm the hearts and stomachs of those who came to daven. We give a special thanks to Susan and Joseph Yunger for opening their home for all of our needs at this most crucial time. Our Shul has become the center for clothing and for food to those who are in need. We have found homes for those who have been displaced. Our community has come together help our neighbors and our friends. We are working diligently to open our doors so that our Hebrew School may be maintained to continue to educate our children in the Jewish way of life. Anyone interested in helping Lido Beach Synagogue family, please contact Rabbi Daniel H. Mehlman at 516-3306007.

Standing-Room Only at HANC High School Open House Hebrew Academy of Nassau County High School welcomed hundreds of visitors at our annual Open House this past Sunday. Eighth grade parents and students attending the HANC Middle School were joined by parents and students from a variety of schools to learn about the excellence and vibrancy that define the Yeshiva. Guests were all treated to a superb display of the academic and extra-curricular programs being offered in the high school, having an opportunity to meet and hear from its esteemed faculty members and students. Many parents commented on how incredible it was to be able to interact with high school students and parents throughout the morning. One parent remarked, “What an impressive group of students! It’s refreshing to attend an Open House which allows us to ask questions and interact with students and parents, rather than a packaged show.” Another parent remarked via email that “the student representation was excellent. The ambassadors were pleasant, friendly and poised.” Parents and students attended mini-

lessons featuring our Academic programs, participated in panels showcasing our high school students, alumni and parents and enjoyed an interactive activities fair presented by our students. “I never realized there are so many opportunities available to choose from in high school,” said one eighth grader. High School principal, Rabbi Shlomo Adelman, remarked, “It was so nice to see so many prospective families attend the event despite the difficulties faced in the aftermath of Sandy.” High school applications are due November 30th. For application and information please contact our Registrar, Mrs. Jackie Raofim at 516-538-8161 ext. 14.

We’d Like to Hear From You Please send all correspondence to:

editor@ fivetownsjewishhome.com.

Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz

The “I” of the Hurricane

urricane Sandy has come and gone, but the people of the greater New York/New Jersey area are still feeling the effects. Almost no one escaped untouched in some way by the finger of G-d toying with our delicate eco-system of power lines, seashores, and our “wired” way of life. Some people had almost no damage from trees, while others had their homes cut in half. Some were spared the ravages of flooding, and yet in some places, whole communities were nearly washed away. Regardless of where you were, though, if you were in Sandy territory, you were affected. Even if you weren’t in the area, but people you cared for were, it affected you and probably still does. People are offering all different explanations for this devastation. Some attribute it to global warming and fossil fuel use. Some say it is wrath of

G-d for various sins. The one constant is that none of these people can say absolutely why it happened. While they may be correct in their guesses, they may also be incorrect. Even if we think we know why something happened, we can’t definitively give the reason. I think Lavan said it best when he said, regarding Rivka’s betrothal to Yitzchok, “This thing came from Hashem; I can’t tell you anything, good or bad.” In that phrase, however, is something very telling which begs us to take notice in this situation. Lavan said he couldn’t comment to Eliezer on what Hashem had done. True, he couldn’t say anything to someone else, but he himself should have taken a direct lesson about

Hashem’s mastery of the world. When you see Hashem’s precision in guiding events, it should bring you closer to Him and cause you to examine yourself and your actions. My wife, who is also quite “observant,” said when we discussed it, “Each

unquestionably “fair.” There’s another aspect to my “I” of the hurricane outlook which must be mentioned. One thing this storm did was bring out the best in people (well, most of them, anyway). We found people housing others, sharing food, clothes,

What stood out about this storm was that no matter how high the water rose, people rose above it.

person has to find their own reason for what they went through.” How right she is! It’s what I like to call, “the ‘I’ of the hurricane.” When something bad happens to a person, he is admonished to search his deeds and see what G-d might be telling him. It’s ironic that though these events are called “Acts of G-d,” it’s so easy to say, “It’s natural phenomena. If you live near the water you’re going to be flooded.” Someone told me, “That’s why you shouldn’t live near the water. In Monsey we’re good. You need to have a natural gas generator, with a gasoline backup, and wood in case that breaks down. Then you’re OK.” I didn’t say anything at the time, but to me it seemed like he left one thing out of the equation – the Ribbono Shel Olam. I can’t tell you why Hashem did any of this, but I CAN tell you there is a reason. What that reason is, you have to figure out for yourself, knowing that you may very well be mistaken, and then don’t try to push it onto anyone else. This is a very personal thing and it’s a message directly from G-d to you. If your kids ask, you should reinforce that we don’t know why Hashem does things but that there is always a reason and it is

necessities like gasoline, and lending a hand. We saw people tracking where generators were and where they could go when they weren’t needed at the first location anymore. One of my neighbors was sending out text messages about where gas could be found, and people with generators opened charging stations in their homes for people to power up cell phones and laptops. When people from other places heard about the devastation in the Five Towns area, they were quick to volunteer to help: pumping water, removing damaged sheetrock, and organizing donations. People sent clothes, flashlights, and even coloring books for kids. Hot meals and dry places to stay were provided. What stood out about this storm was that no matter how high the water rose, people rose above it. When you think 

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you know what someone is made of, think of how people acted after Sandy and you’ll realize there’s unlimited good within each of us and we can’t underestimate that. We probably even learned some things about ourselves. People asked themselves, what can “I” do to help, and how should “I” react to this? Then I think they got some pretty surprising answers. The “eye” of a hurricane is the term for an area of comparatively light winds and fair weather found at the center of a severe tropical cyclone. There is little or no precipitation there and sometimes blue sky or stars can even be seen through it. Perhaps that’s because when we calmly look at a situation, reflecting on the facts without resentment or emotion, and really “seeing” what’s going on, we can get a glimpse into another world, the world of Ratzon Hashem – Gd’s will, where we can see what Hashem wants from each of us, and where we can seek out how “I” can make things a little better. EXCITING NEWS! The first book of articles from The Observant Jew is being prepared for publication and there are a number of sponsorship opportunities available. If you are entertained and inspired by these articles, help spread the joy and reap the rewards of inspiring others. For more information, e-mail info@jewishspeechwriter. com and grab this opportunity before it’s gone. © 2012 by Jonathan Gewirtz. All rights reserved.

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  

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

The Observant Jew

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Ask the Rabbi

Yehoshua Levy

Kosher “Chewing-Out” I just bumped into a member of my synagogue at our local supermarket the other day and she pointed out that I had in my cart some cereal that wasn’t kosher. She said it would be hypocritical of me to come to shul and pray with the same mouth that eats this stuff. I can accept criticism when my actions are affecting others, but how can someone who prides herself in being so religious be so rude to tell me what to eat? -R. S. Gold The Rabbi Responds: The truth is that as Jews we are responsible for each other in regard to both physical and spiritual wellbeing. The Torah in Parshas Kedoshim writes: “Reprove your fellow and do not bear a sin on his account.” (Lev. 19:17) If you saw someone about to drink from a can of coke that you knew

was spiked with bleach, you would be morally and halachically obligated to inform that individual. Only a callous and cruel person would watch another innocent human being ingest poison in

of transgressing in this manner. However, you are correct that many people remember the part of the verse that commands us to “rebuke,” but unfortunately fail to remember the

If you saw someone about to drink from a can of Coke that you knew was spiked with bleach, you would be morally and halachically obligated to inform that individual.

silence. We believe that certain forbidden foods are harmful to the Jewish soul. A Jew who sincerely cares about his brethren is likewise duty-bound to inform a fellow Jew who is in danger

conclusion of the verse: “Do not bear a sin on his account.” One who rebukes another must do so out of love and caring for the welfare of another, and must do it in a positive, compas-

sionate, sensitive manner, taking great care to not insult the person. That is the message of this verse. You should be willing to help educate those who are less informed, but be extremely judicious to avoid the sin of hurting the feelings of another person. If you can’t do it right, don’t do it at all. So how are you going to “rebuke” your synagogue friend?

Please note, the information written above is not meant as a rabbinic ruling. If you have any questions, please consult your rabbinic authority for clarification. Yehoshua Levy, a teacher of Torah, is a writer and lecturer who dares to think outside the box to bring his thought-provoking insights and facts to his readers. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at editor@fivetownsjewishhome.com.

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70 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Cover Story

n Sunday, November 11, I traveled from Baltimore to the Bayswater/Far Rockaway area, an area ravaged by Hurricane Sandy. Of all my senses, it was the sense of smell that was the first to notice signs of devastation, as the putrid stench overwhelmed me while driving along Beach Channel Drive. Then, as my eyes caught sight of the unfathomable destruction, as well as the sea of garbage piled high next to the ocean, I could not help but wonder how these people had endured for the last two weeks without their most basic necessities. We take life for granted; we assume that we can create light with the flick of a switch, receive a rush of water by turning a faucet, and that our warm, cozy houses will always be there for us. And when those basic necessities are taken from us, we are left with nothing. Nothing but each other. Though the people in the Bayswater/Far Rockaway area suffered unimaginable damage, they also were privy to many hardto-imagine acts of kindness – from all different ends of the Torah spectrum. At the center of it all, was the Young Israel of Bayswater, under the leadership of its indefatigable rabbi, Rabbi Eliezer Feuer. Supported by an army of selfless men and women, the community rose from the depths of despair to the pinnacle of triumph. I was greeted by smiles and smiles and more smiles. But there was no time for talking, as there was much work to be done. Sure, they had lost much. Some had lost everything. But they had each other. In the story of Chanukah, we learn about the struggle of one small group of men who illuminated the darkest black of night. We commemorate that miracle by lighting a small candle and placing it in our window for all to see. The story of the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy is like a modern-day version of Chanukah. Over the past two weeks, we learned the power of the Jewish spark and its indomitable spirit – how one light was able to flicker and ignite the flame of compassion that lasted and lasted and lasted. Although threatened by hopelessness and despair, the glow of kindness warmed the hearts of those who were now homeless, despondent, and lonely. Volunteers converged on the shul on Healy Avenue. From Williamsburg to Teaneck, there was the unification of all parties. Satmar, Skver, and Lubavitch put aside all ideological differences; Chassidic, yeshivish, and Modern Orthodox Jews crossed the lines of demarcation, to write one of the greatest chapters of chesed in

Rabbi Yechiel Spero

recent memory. A command center was sent from Williamsburg, and three of the Skverer Rebbe’s generators were delivered by his Chassidim. Dedicated volunteers left their jobs for two weeks, since they could not bring themselves to go to work when they knew how much their brothers were suffering. Men and women spent every spare moment ensuring that neighbors and friends and strangers would have a place to sleep. Separate crews were sent to drain the water, to remove the debris, and then to obliterate anything that was left. A group of 75 volunteers took turns patrolling the area to make sure that it was safe from looters. In one room of the shul, sat a woman who took care of insurance claims; in the next room, stood a policeman who watched and marveled at this army of Jews who gathered to overcome the forces of darkness. In yet another room, we found crayons, games, and toys for the children to come and play – and remember that they can still be children even when everything else in their life has changed. A young, irreligious girl traveled from Stamford, Connecticut with a bag of coins and dollar bills. She had woken up early that morning and cried to her mother that they must do something to help. Late Friday afternoon, a woman from Teaneck placed an ad on the Jewish website in Teaneck asking for donations. When someone called to offer to deliver the goods to Bayswater, she declined, saying she wasn’t sure if she would receive any contributions. By Motza’ei Shabbos, however, her garage was filled with numerous donations of food and clothing. When the National Guard finally came, among them was a Jewish religious soldier, whose name was Omar. He came to help his brothers as they delivered thousands of meals. In the kitchen, there was a team of women with smiling faces and open hearts who had come to feed their children. But it was not only their own children they were feeding – it was all of the children and families of the area. In fact, there were non-Jews, as well, who came to seek comfort and shelter under the umbrella of the shul. And they were fed a dose of good, old-fashioned Jewish kindness. Do not make the mistake of thinking that it has been all peaches and cream. One young lady, who was overcome with despair, tried to end her life. She ran away and left a suicide note. But the modern-day Chashmonaim searched in the darkness of night and found her flickering soul, brought her to the hospital, and hopefully, she

is on the road to recovery. There were very dark moments, some in which many of the members of the community wondered how they would persevere. But now, as they see the light at the end of the tunnel, as the electricity begins to go back on, they can begin to rebuild their lives anew. We all hope that the Charon Af manifested through an unleashed hurricane that destroyed portions of the East Coast unlike any storm in recent memory, must have been pacified by the selfless response of Hashem’s children. The cold, shivering souls of Bayswater have been warmed by the fact that no Jew will ever be left alone. All these heroic efforts were summarized by Rabbi Feuer, when he reminded me of a story from Rav Shalom Schwadron: A young man, Shmuel, arrived at a concentration camp along with his entire family. But within moments of their arrival, he was sent to the right and his family members to the left. One motion of the thumb determined the fate of the rest of his family members. They headed toward the gas chambers and were immediately annihilated. Shmuel’s grief knew no bounds. But there was no time to wallow in self-pity. The German guards barked at him and the others to undress and undergo a cleansing process. They would be shorn and forced to endure a painful dip into a tub of cleansing agent, which was mainly composed of burning acid. One by one, the prisoners were transformed from humans into hardly recognizable creatures. Their hair was cut and they were tossed into this tub. They did not remain there for more than a second or two, lest they burn themselves. But Shmuel, inexplicably, stayed in there for a lengthy period of time. His fellow inmates were shocked, but there was no time to dwell on these matters at the moment. After the entire day, Shmuel collapsed on the slab of concrete that had now become his bed. He lay there, staring off into oblivion. But another young man who shared the slab with him, a friend from the past, asked him why he had lingered in the burning tub for longer than he had to. After a long silence, he began to explain. “You know, hours ago, I arrived here with my family. We were all together, and we had made up that nothing would separate us. But within moments, that plan was destroyed. They were sent to their deaths and I was sent to life. “When I was ordered to remove my clothing and immerse myself in the tub, one thought hit me. I am left with absolutely nothing in this world. I don’t even have clothing! But there is one thing that I have. Ribbono Shel Olam, I have You! I am not alone in this world. I still have You.

“And that thought was so comforting that I did not want to let go of it. That is why I remained in there for longer than I should have.” Rabbi Feuer turned to me, and with tears in his eyes, he said, “Kasheh alai preidaschem,” echoing the Al-mighty’s words, as He takes leave from us at the end of Succos (Rashi: Bamidbar 29:36). “It hasn’t been easy,” he explained, “but throughout the last two weeks, we have experienced a closeness with each other and a closeness with the Ribbono Shel Olam, that is so very difficult from which to take leave.” Rav Yitzchak (Itzele) of Vorki was a very close friend of the Kotzker Rebbe, Rav Menachem Mendel Morgenstern. They made a promise to each other that whoever dies first will appear to the other one in a dream to tell what is transpiring in heaven. A month after the passing of Rav Yitzchak, his son came to the Kotzker to ask if he had heard anything from his father. The Kotzker responded that he had not; because of that he had ascended to heaven to seek out his friend. When he came up, he asked if anyone had seen Rav Yitzchak. They all pointed him in the direction of a forest. He walked through the forest until he finally spotted Rav Yitzchak, who was standing by what seemed to be the ocean. He asked him why he had not gone on to Gan Eden. Why was he standing there? Rav Yitzchak told the Kotzker to listen. Suddenly, he heard the most terrible cries. He could not understand where the cries were coming from. Rav Yitzchak explained that they were coming from the ocean. This was not just any ocean. It was an ocean formed from the tears of Klal Yisrael. Rav Yitzchak turned toward his friend, “And I promised the Ribbono Shel Olam that I am not leaving here until the tears in this ocean achieve what they were meant to…I will not leave here until all the tzaros and tears come to an end…” urricane Sandy brought with it an ocean of destruction and left behind a sea of tears. But if the past two weeks are any indication – and they are – then those tears are watering the seeds of joy. “Ha’zorim be’dimah be’rinah yiktzoru – Those who tearfully sow will reap in glad song” (Tehillim 126:5). The community of Bayswater, along with so many other communities, has suffered greatly. People have lost so much. We must never forget that. And we must double our efforts to donate and raise money to assist them in their recovery. Tens of millions of dollars are needed, as darkness has enveloped their lives. But for many, the lights of their neshamos, and the eternal glow of the Chanukah candles, have been ignited as never before.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Cover Story

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Parshas Toldos “And Yaakov approached Yitzchak, his father, and Yitzchak felt him, and said, ‘`The voice is the voice of Yaakov, and the hands are the hands of Aiysav.’” – Bereishis 27:22 To “trick” Yitzchak into giving him the bracha, Yaakov donned Aiysav’s clothing, put the skin of an animal on his arms and neck to simulate the hairiness of Aiysav, and went in to his father to receive the blessing. As they were twins, the subterfuge was almost perfect, and it seemed as if Yaakov had succeeded. For all intents and purposes, he appeared as Aiysav, spoke as Aiysav, and presented himself as his twin. Yet something made Yitzchak suspicious, and he said the famous words: “The voice is the voice of Yaakov, and the hands are the hands of Aiysav.” Rashi explains what tipped Yitzchak off. Yaakov used the equivalent of the word “please,” as in “Please, my father, get up. Please, my father, take this.” These were words that Aiysav would never utter. Therefore, Yitzchak suspected that it wasn’t Aiysav, but rather Yaakov, and he asked to “feel” the person in front of him to determine which of the brothers it was. This Rashi is very difficult to understand when we take into account Aiysav’s relationship with his father. No one Fulfilled Kibud Av as Aiysav Did Aiysav had genuine respect and reverence for his father—in fact, he loved him. The Medrash Rabbah saidh that, “In the course of human history, no man ever treated his father with the respect that Aiysav treated his father.” So how is it possible that he was gruff and rude to a man who he loved and adored? The answer to this question lies in understanding human nature. The Force of Habit We are engaged in thousands of interactions, choices, and decisions each day. Unlike an animal, which is preprogrammed to perform in a particular manner, the human has free will — free will to choose how he will respond, react, and deal with every situation. If every one of his decisions was a conscious choice that had to be thought out, he would spend his entire day just making them. A man is approaching. Do I smile and nod or do I look the other way? He’s looking at me, do I turn my head to respond or do I look out at the trees?

When he asks me how my day is, does he expect a detailed inventory of actions or does he mean it in a casual manner?” To allow us to function productively, Hashem gave us the power of habit. Habit allows us to respond almost unconsciously to the thousands of choices that we are constantly engaged in. As a

I Love Him, But Can’t Live With Him It may well be that we respect our parents, love our siblings, and are deeply attached to our spouses, but unless a person consciously works on his word choices, reactions, and responses, he may well be putting on a façade – pre-

“Please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me”: these expressions don’t always represent who the person is and how he feels, but the little niceties of life are the grease that smooth the wheels of social interactions.

result, we can talk and eat dinner at the same time. We can drive a car, watch the traffic, change lanes, and hold a conversation. Most of the actions we engage in are done on auto-pilot. We don’t have to think about them. We have done them before, created our patterns of action and reaction, so now we can just go about our business without having to use up our conscious minds on rote activities. Habit governs and controls most of the actions and choices of our day. This force is a double-edged sword. It can allow us to accomplish worlds more because of it, but it costs us in the sense that bad habits and poor reactions can lock us into behaviors and responses that don’t accurately represent our will. We’re just stuck with them because of the ruts that we have created. This seems to be the answer to Rashi. There is no question that Aiysav deeply respected his father. But Aiysav was gruff. His operating mode was curt and rude. Those were the habits that he developed, the manner in which he acted, the patterns that he etched into his soul. Even when he was in a situation of serving a man that he greatly respected, his years of mechanized routine surfaced, and he spoke the way that he usually spoke. When Yaakov impersonated Aiysav and used polite terms, it was out of character for someone pretending to be Aisev. Yitzchak noticed something out of synch. This wasn’t the Aiysav that he had known for so many years. This concept is very applicable in our lives on a number of fronts.

senting an image to others that doesn’t accurately reflect how he feels. The message he may be giving is very different from his inner condition.

One of the saddest expressions uttered in a troubled marriage is: “I love him, but can’t live with him.” Often times, it isn’t that the man is a selfish lout or a creep. It is simply that he has remained with the bad habits of being unpolished. “Please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” are lacking from his vocabulary. This can make all the difference in the world between a person who is pleasant to be around — or not. The most amazing part is that these expressions don’t always represent who the person is and how he feels, but the little niceties of life are the grease that smoothes the wheels of social interactions. While middos are the essence of a person, social graces often speak louder than feelings to those who actually live with him. By training our tongues in these social conventions, we give off a persona that matches our inner condition, and those we interact with get to experience the considerate, caring person that we are.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

The Shmuz

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

You Gotta be

Kidding!

Submitted by Chanala Reiss Like all good Jewish mothers, Rachel, is worrying day in and day out about her poor son, Yankel, far away in yeshiva. “Oy vey, will he get a good shidduch? Will he have enough to eat? Will he be cold at night?” While worrying she decides to at least buy and send him two warm wool sweaters. A couple of months later he travels back to New York to see his mother. After many hours on a bus, he arrives erev Shabat at her door and thinks, “Wait, maybe I should wear one of the sweaters she sent me! Surely this will make her happy!” He puts on the sweater, rings the door bell and his mother opens the door. “Yankell!” “Mammele!” “Yankel, I am so happy to see you! And you are even wearing one of the sweaters I sent you! But tell me one thing: You didn’t like the other sweater?!?!” And just in case you needed to know: Q: What kind of guns do bees use? A: BeeBee guns

Riddle Submitted by Levi Harnov There are four bungalows in our cul-de-sac. Some of them are made from peculiar materials: straw, wood, brick and glass. Mrs. Schwartz’s bungalow is somewhere to the left of the wooden one and the third one along is brick. Mrs. Unger owns a straw bungalow and Mr. Teller does not live at either end, but lives somewhere to the right of the glass bungalow. Mr. Weiss lives in the fourth bungalow, whilst the first bungalow is not made from straw. Based on these clues, figure out the order of the bungalows, left to right, and who lives in each one. Answer on next page

Authentic year 2000 “chad” sells at Sotheby’s for $4.8 million. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Ozone created by electric cars now killing millions. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Castro finally dies at age 112; Cuban cigars can now be imported legally, but President Chelsea Clinton has banned all smoking. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

Microsoft announces it has perfected its newest version of Windows so it crashes BEFORE installation is completed. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

George Z. Bush says he will run for President in 2032. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ 35 year study: diet and exercise is the key to weight loss. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Texas executes last remaining citizen. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Average height of NBA players now nine feet, seven inches. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ White minorities still trying to have English recognized as the California’s third language. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

New federal law requires that all nail clippers, screwdrivers and baseball bats must be registered by January 2036. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Mayor Michael Bloomberg will not seek a 9th term as mayor and will instead focus on banning everything but seaweed and broccoli juice. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Teenager hospitalized after shocking experience of talking to another real human face-to-face. (She sent an OMG text to her “friends” while being transported in the ambulance.)

_____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________ Power fully restored to Far Rockaway Hurricane Sandy victims; politicians rush to take credit for quick response. _____________________________________ _____________________________________ _____________________________________

3. What is a necessary component of lightning? a. Ice b. Warm temperature c. Wind d. Metal

Answers: 1. A-An electrical grid is an interconnected network for delivering electricity from suppliers to consumers. It consists of three main components: 1) power stations that produce electricity; 2) transmission lines that carry electricity from power plants to demand centers; and 3) transformers that reduce voltage so distribution lines carry power for final delivery. 2. A-Thomas Edison didn’t invent the first light bulb, but he did invent one that stayed lit for more than a few seconds. In 1809, Humphry Davy invented the first electric light. Davy connected two wires to a battery and attached a charcoal strip between the other ends of the wires. The charged carbon glowed, making the first arc lamp. 3. A-Lightning is an electric current. Within a thundercloud way up in the sky, many small bits of ice (frozen raindrops) bump into each other as they move around in the air. All of those collisions create an electric charge. After a while, the whole cloud fills up with electrical charges. The positive charges or protons

5. What is “nuclear fission”? a. Process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts b. The process of putting gas into nuclear energy c. Going fishing with nuclear bait d. The process of combining neutrons and creat-

form at the top of the cloud and the negative charges or electrons form at the bottom of the cloud. Since opposites attract, that causes a positive charge to build up on the ground beneath the cloud. The ground’s electrical charge concentrates around anything that sticks up, such as mountains, people, or single trees. The charge coming up from these points eventually connects with a charge reaching down from the clouds and – zap – lightning strikes! 4. A-Fossil fuels are fuels formed by natural processes such as anaerobic decomposition of buried dead organisms. Fossil fuels are non-renewable resources because they take many years to form, and reserves are being depleted much faster than new ones are being made. Alternatives to fossil fuels include nuclear energy and solar energy. 5. A-In nuclear physics and nuclear chemistry, nuclear fission is either a nuclear reaction or a radioactive decay process in which the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts (lighter nuclei), often producing free neutrons and photons (in the form of gamma

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Let the Commissioner decide. Send your stuff to centerfold@fivetownsjewishhome.com

rays), and releasing a very large amount of energy, even by the energetic standards of radioactive decay. Nuclear fission produces energy for nuclear power and to drive the explosion of nuclear weapons. Both uses are possible because certain substances called nuclear fuels undergo fission when struck by fission neutrons, and in turn emit neutrons when they break apart. This makes possible a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction that releases energy at a controlled rate in a nuclear reactor or at a very rapid uncontrolled rate in a nuclear weapon. Wisdom Key 4-5 correct: You are a genius. Period. Now, please go wipe the tomato sauce off of your shirt. 2-3 correct: You are not bad, considering the fact that you have no way to study...because LIPA can’t get their act together and we have blackouts every two days. 0-1 correct: How did you get the job as head of LIPA anyways?????

Answer to riddle: From left to right: Mrs. Schwartz lives in the glass bungalow. Mrs. Unger lives in the straw one. Mr. Teller lives in the brick one. Mr. Weiss lives in the wooden one.

1. Which one of the following is not part of an electrical grid? a. Dunkin Donuts (which begs the question of why that seems to be where LIPA is hanging out most of the time these days) b. Power station c. Transmission lines d. Transformers

4. Which one of the following is not a fossil fuel? a. Solar Power b. Coal c. Petroleum d. Natural gas

ing a converse negative energy field which splits with protons and creates a greater atomic weights which connects to beta particles causing heavy density in electrons which contributes to electromagnetic radiation which can then be added to protons which adds to the rate meter and helps transmutation. Now, if you actually read this whole thing then you have a great ability to concentrate and would probably be a very good nuclear scientist, but have no clue—at this point—about nuclear science, because nothing makes sense about this paragraph. It is pure gibberish (which come to think of it, it a key ingredient in...never mind).

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

2. Who invented the first light bulb? a. Humphry Davy b. Thomas Edison c. Ben Franklin d. Albert Einstein

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Inspiration

Stacey Zrihen

Extreme Chessed… Five Towns/Rockaway Edition

ere in the Five Towns and Far Rockaway we go all the way. We don’t have a few small restaurants—we have dozens, some of the best you’ll find anywhere. We don’t have two or three schools – we have dozens, many of which are new and huge and beautiful. Some communities have a weekly shiur – not us – we’ve got hundreds for men and women every week. And when our community does chessed, it’s no different – we go all out. The past two weeks have been a whirlwind that has affected our community in a way I cannot remember in the 35 years I have lived here. Everyone has been affected, their lives turned upside down in ways both big and small. Before the storm my daughter and I played with the Hebrew equivalent of the word Sandy (assuming the “S” was a samach). We reorganized the letters and created “Nes yud daled” – the miracle of the 14th (the storm hit on Monday night and Tuesday the 14th of Cheshvan). We davened that the nes would be that no

one from our community be physically harmed from the storm. A little farfetched, I’ll admit. We then calculated the gematria of the word “Sandy,” which comes to 124 and noted that perek 124 of Tehillim mentions flood waters. OK, noteworthy. After the storm, when we reviewed the week’s parsha, however, we were certain that it was not accidental

someone to visit. Really? I mean I try to perform acts of chessed when I can, but I can’t say that I ever sat outside my front door hoping and praying for a chessed to come along. I most certainly could not relate. Then came Sandy, and these past two weeks have been different. I have not only felt, but watched my friends, family and community express

Hashem has a way of sending the specific acts of kindness that He wishes for each of us to perform right to our door. that Hurricane Sandy arrived during the week of Parshat Vayeira. Parshat Vayeira, so famous for the mitzvah of hachnasat orchim, describes Avraham not only performing the mitzvah of hosting guests, but literally sitting outside in the desert heat (right after a brit milah nonetheless) desperate for

a desire to do chessed so strong that there was actually some despair when their home was not needed or meals were already arranged. Tell me if any of this sounds familiar: We invited more than fifteen different families to sleep in our home once we got power back hoping someone (anyone) would come to stay! When a friend who was housing and feeding eighteen guests starting 24 hours after the storm heard that another neighbor had bought diapers at Walmart and delivered them to Bayswater – she was devastated that she hadn’t done that too. Another friend was actually a little bummed that her expected company got their power back—she was so looking forward to housing and feeding them! Two other friends all but had a tug of war over which of their houses mutual friends should stay at. I knew I needed to put my thoughts in writing after the following texting exchange with my brother-in-law who wrote to ask me if I knew of ways he could help local hurricane victims. (After feeding and housing my family for a week I would have called it a day, but he and my sister were ready for more!) It looked like this: BIL: Now that you have power back, I’m sure you’ll find out how you can help others. Can you please lmk what’s out there in ways to help? Stacey: Of course A day later… BIL: Nothing yet? Stacey: Maybe call Achiezer – they seem to be coordinating various efforts. BIL: You housing anyone? Stacey: Have a woman from minyan and her kids coming tonight – her husband is out of town and they have no

power. Another couple coming Shabbos. BIL: How did you get them? Stacey: Drugged and kidnapped them J BIL: LOL (Our power subsequently shut off for a second time eight minutes later and there went our guests…) What makes this recent situation unique is that while some members of our community (many of whom are not used to receiving help) are now in need, everyone in our community is feeling the need to give. Those blessed with no damage and loss of power jumped to the forefront, but even our friends whose own homes were devastated are finding ways to give. One woman we know took someone she met at Chabad with her to Achiezer so that she could help him fill out his FEMA forms. Thankfully, as the power is restored, fewer people are finding themselves on the needing end, but all of us still have this tremendous desire to help. And so I would like to share some suggestions on giving: Focus on your own strengths and specifically on the situations that present themselves in your own life (i.e. you don’t usually need to search for chessed). Hashem has a way of sending the specific acts of kindness that He wishes for each of us to perform right to our door (think Avraham and the angels). Don’t go running to Achiezer if your next-door neighbors need help emptying their basement. Don’t worry that you didn’t sort clothing when there are twenty-five boarders in your house that are loving your homemade lasagna. As the days and weeks wear on, many of the people needing temporary housing may be settled, but inviting them for a Shabbos or weekday meal can give their more permanent host a needed reprieve. Most importantly, not all chessed has to be done on a large scale. A morning phone call to check up on a friend, letting someone pull into the parking spot you were eyeing or a kind word to someone waiting in line all qualify as chessed – especially now. Even if the act is small, our neighborhood is known for doing things with a full heart. It makes all the difference. Stacey Zrihen is the co-founder of i-shine, an afterschool program for children coping with illness or loss in their family. She is also a longtime resident and big fan of the Five Towns / Far Rockaway community.

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Cover Story

y grandmother always taught my family that the most important thing in life is to honor G-d. She taught me Tehillim when I was four, beginning with ‘You open Your Hand and fulfill the need of every living thing’ (Perek 145). If I had one-tenth of my grandmother’s avodas Hashem I’d be happy.” All remarkable considering Ahuvah Gray’s grandmother was a sharecropper in Mississippi and she herself was once an ordained Baptist minister. I mount the stairs to her loft apartment in Bayit Vegan and enter Ahuvah’s haven. The first things I notice are her Katherine Hepburn cheekbones, her warm, dark caramelcolored skin, and an illumining smile I find myself trying to tease from its recesses for the next hour and a quarter. Her life – the physical one that is – is within compact walls, everything in its place, small and neat, her daybed tucked under a breezy window, a combined dining-room and kitchen embellished by green plants. I am charmed by the ease with which she receives me, and apparently all others, as a friend. Her voice is low and resonant, and her speech is often punctuated with “Baruch Hashem,” the “shem” stretched out with a touch of Southern to “shiyem.” It’s not long before I realize that “Baruch Hashem” is her life. Many know her story as recounted in her book My Sister, the Jew. Delores Gray grew up in the Bible Belt in a loving religious family with strong values – values for which her family is grateful. These days each phone conversation with them ends with “Thank G-d we were brought up the way we were.” Coming of age in the 1960s, she, her brothers and her sister sidestepped the “Question Authority” and “Do Your Own Thing” mentalities, opting instead for the traditional love of family, educating one’s self, working and marrying. She grew up in a home her mother opened to those needing food, clothing and even shelter. It was a home where her mother’s and grandmother’s love of G-d and their devotion to prayer were a way of life. That love and devotion fed her own love of bible study, and that in turn propelled her to learn the Jewish scriptures, seeing, as she did, her Christian faith as inseparable from the roots it claimed. After her schooling, Ahuvah worked full-time for Continental Airlines, and eventually started her own international travel agency specializing in tours to the Holy Land. She had to see the place to be able to sell it, and was so moved on her first visit she decided that one day it would become her home. “At last my soul had found its resting place,” she states in her book. Ahuvah did well. She had her travel business, a condominium, a new car, beautiful home furnishings– and a hole in her life for all her crea-

Chana Rochel (Andrea) Eller

ture amenities. A California earthquake shook her out of her comfortable success; it took down her condo and most of her possessions. She saw first-hand that all was indeed vanity, and decided to move to Israel “to study the Word of G-d.” Responding to the cries of her soul, which, she says eloquently, was in exile until she converted, she eventually became a Jew. But why would the soul of a devout Baptist minister cry for such a radical shift? Perhaps not letting her rest were three facets of that soul. For one thing, to say that Ahuvah is sensitive to the spiritual might be akin to saying Pavarotti was able to carry a tune. The transcendental has been the driving force of her life. Consider a truncated list: Her first major influence was what she saw as her grandmother’s ability to connect to the Creator through prayer; a corresponding need for such connection has since been her own prayer (she davens three times a day); as Delores, she joined the ministry, stirred by the Jewish prophets about whom she taught; Tehillim have always moved her to tears; her recollection of Tehillim served as the marker of her recovery from a serious illness; the otherworldly giving nature of her first employers – Jewish – has always inspired her; her Bible study trumped barbeques and television as her choice for entertainment; the pastor for whose congregation she ministered as a teacher taught her about the One-ness of G-d and she responded to that truth to the exclusion of anything to the contrary; of her own accord she began to pray in Hebrew from a Siddur – a decision which she describes as transforming; on one Tisha B’Av came the realization that she had a Jewish neshama, and on the Yom Kippur that followed the power of Kol Nidrei nearly flattened her; each Jewish holiday moved her closer to her spiritual goal…. This brief list can be epitomized by citing her awareness of the Hand of G-d in every move she makes. Hard to miss a pull to the extramundane here. The second trait that may have made inevitable the trip from Baptist to Jew is the core of honesty in Ahuvah Gray. An anecdote from her book illustrates her integrity. Well before she converted, a Jewish friend took her to a Pesach Seder at the home of Moroccan friends – a religious couple not expecting a non-Jewish guest. There are myriad halachas governing the Pesach Seder, among them regarding the participation of non-Jews. The Moroccans were flummoxed, and Ahuvah and her friend left to join another Seder. At that Seder many of the Jewish participants were outraged as to what they regarded the Moroccans’ inexcusable position. But Ahuvah was not offended, which may have seemed odd, given she was not considering conversion at the time. So at the second seder where outrage gave

vent, Ahuvah herself stood up for her Moroccan hosts. She announced that not only was she not offended, but that if there was a law prohibiting gentile presence at this uniquely Jewish holiday, that was that. “This is Judaism,” as she said. Then Christian, this woman out-thought and out-performed most at that Seder who would have molded Jewish law to their own mindsets rather than respecting the truth, wisdom and depth of G-d’s Torah. This view of the world through eyes unclouded by self or agenda – a view commanding allegiance – is what sets Ahuvah apart from others. The third trait supporting her migration to Judaism is her tenacity. Once she decided to go for the gold, she would brook no interference. Discouraged by others time

and again, she held her connection to Hashem – her Jewish connection to Hashem – her most precious possession, and refused to let go. She fought like the dickens in the face of tall odds to become a Jew, with spiritual stamina enough to survive her beis din’s four rejections and to take the matter to the highest beis din in Israel. She had been “ratted out” by a well-meaning informant accusing her of being an ordained minister scheming to infiltrate Jewish walls and convert Jews. (The truth was that she had rescinded ministerial title and obligation years before.) She stuck out her trials, and today she is a holy Jew. Ahuvah’s preoccupation today is her meetings with Rav Elyashiv, ztz’l, the recently passed Gadol HaDor of the generation. She is in mourning, and it is written on her expressive face when she speaks. “When I think about it, who would have ever thought that I, from a different world, different culture, different language, and at one time of a different religion, would be privileged enough to meet the Gadol HaDor? I had private meetings with him that were set up by his daughter, Rebbetzin Auerbach, olah haShalom. It must have been the Ratzon Hashem. I didn’t sleep the night of the levaya. I couldn’t believe he was gone. I think we Jews feel things more deeply than others, especially since we’re here in Yerushalayim with the kedusha. None of us is over it. None of us.” How did Ahuvah meet the Rav? Ahuvah was on her way to a chol haMoed Pesach se’udah when she saw “a distinguished looking gentleman” enter HaGrah, her shul in Bayit Vegan. It was Rabbi Shteinman, shlita, for a meeting with the visiting Rav Elyashiv. Ahuvah decided she wanted a bracha from the Gadol HaDor! But by the time the se’udah was over, the great tzaddik was gone.

“Of course I was disappointed. I went home and called my rebbetzin, Rebbetzin Heinemann, and said, ‘You won’t believe it. Rabbi Elyashiv was in Bayit Vegan! I wanted to get a bracha from him and missed my chance.’ She said she would call Rebbetzin Auerbach to see what could be done. Rebbetzin Auerbach then arranged for me to meet Reb Elyashiv on an Erev Shabbos in Me’a She’arim. I knew the Rav was going to speak Hebrew, so I called a friend and asked her to come with me to translate because I still couldn’t speak so fluently. She asked if I was joking! Rav Elyashiv! She canceled her lunch appointment, rented a car and picked me up. We drove to Me’a She’arim, parked, walked up the little alley-way, and rang the bell. Rebbetzin Auerbach answered the door. It was the first time I’d ever met her. When the Rebbetzin opened the door and we walked into the apartment, the room was full of light, and I’m not talking about daylight. He was sitting here studying a gemara, and Rebbetzin Auerbach introduced us to Reb Elyashiv. The Rav began asking questions of us, but never looked at us. He asked me where I lived, and for how long; I had lived in Bayit Vegan for eight years at that point. Then he began asking questions in Hebrew, so my friend translated back and forth. After a while I asked my friend to ask the Rav for a brocha for a shidduch. She asked him and he said that he was not a one to perform miracles. I thought for a bit before I answered, because this was Reb Elyashiv! Then I said, ‘Please tell him Hashem does!’ And he looked at us for the first time and had a big smile on his face. He gave me a bracha and he gave her a bracha, and when we were leaving I said to her, ‘The Rav is the holiest man I’ve ever seen.’ The whole time we were standing there once I was thinking, ‘Hashem, Reb Elyashiv is completely m’vatel his ego.’ You could see it, you could feel it. But the reality of the hashgacha pratis of my meeting him didn’t hit until after the levaya. I don’t know what we’ll do without now that he’s gone.” The question for our generation is unanswerable, but it is clear what Ahuvah Gray will do. She will keep growing. I asked her if there was anything she felt missing in her life. “Nothing. I don’t miss the States; when I’m there I feel as if I’m on another planet, and I can’t wait to get back to Eretz Yisroel. I believe my neshama is connected to the land here. It’s just that simple. When Hashem wants me to marry, he’ll get me married. Look at everything else He’s done for me! I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be, and where Hashem wants me to be.” Ahuvah Gray has toured the English-speaking Jewish world and inspired the religious and non-religious alike with her story. She has written four books, is working to produce a video touching upon her meetings with Rav Elyashiv, and every day this unusual woman works on herself, her relationships with others (Bayit Vegan is her extended family), and her relationship with the Al-mighty. Just as I was leaving I remembered reading in her book that she had taken tap-dancing lessons as a young girl, so in the middle of her dining room together we did the timestep, and a few shuffle-ball-change combinations together, then gave each other a high-five. It gave us a good laugh, and despite our having moved from the sublime to the giddy, it strengthened my conviction that we are fortunate we can call Ahuvah Gray one of our Jewish sisters.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Cover Story

The problem in halacha regarding non-Jewish guests at the Pesach Seder table is one of cooking. Cooking is allowed on holidays that do not fall on Shabbos, but is limited to amounts needed for those who have the Jewish obligation to participate. See your local competent Orthodox rabbi for details. AE

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Emotional Trauma of Hurricane Sandy

We are in the midst of a situation that none could have foreseen. The losses are so significant that there is not a person in our community who doesn’t feel the pain. Many children (and their parents) are experiencing signs of trauma, and we expect that many more will show delayed responses. In conjunction with Achiezer, Chai Lifeline’s Department of Crisis Intervention established a crisis hotline after the storm. The following suggestions may be helpful as we all begin to rebuild and heal from this horrific situation. • Delayed responses to trauma are common. Often, the practical tasks of relocating and resettling suppress emotional responses. Don’t be surprised if your child begins to show signs of trauma after you believe life is back on an even keel. • Children who are displaced need intermittent yet firm assurances that they will return home (or to a comparable home) and their routines will resume. Understand and validate their distress; let your children know that their emotional responses, however unpleasant and painful, are normal. • Maintain regular and supportive contacts with parents, siblings, and friends. Try to distract your children with recreational activities and social contact. • It may be helpful to bring children to their home so they can see that it is being rebuilt. Again, reassure them that distress in this situation is normal, and that it will take some time to feel totally comfortable again. • It is unlikely that pre-adolescents will raise theological questions or doubts. Adolescents may try to understand the purpose or reason for this catastrophe, but they are also better able to understand the inexplicable. Prayer and religious undertakings may be therapeutic. • Highlight the broad communal response and support that the community has received. Research demonstrates that one of the most therapeutic aspects of post-trauma recovery is social affiliation and connection. • Work towards a realistic resumption of your child’s normal activities and schedule, even if he or she resists. This, too, has been proven to be very therapeutic. Keep in mind that you may need to make some temporary accommodations. • Hurricane Sandy affected adults as well as children. If you feel emotionally derailed, you must both address your distress and deputize others to convey a sense of security to your children. In times of crisis, children are acutely aware and focused on their parents; you will not be able to hide your emotional fragility from them. The best analogy is the flight instruction we hear before takeoff: if oxygen is needed, put your own mask on first. Only when we attend to our own immediate needs will we be able to help our children.

Remember that this was not a normal storm, and experiencing stress or fear weeks after the horrific event is not a sign of weakness. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the Chai Lifeline crisis team if you or your child needs assistance coping with the emotional aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Coping with the

T h e J e wTihsehJ He owmi es hn h no omvee m r 1254, ,2012 n bme ay 2012

82 88

Notable

Quotes

Compiled by Nate Davis

“Say What?” “The president also got help in the election last night with 70 percent of the Jewish vote. When Jewish voters heard their support for Obama was so high, they were like, ‘Eh, coulda been better.’” - Jimmy Fallon “I heard an update from Con Edison, the electricity company. They said the Republicans now will be without power for the next four years.” - David Letterman

Florida has finally finished counting the votes. What is wrong with Florida? Why is it so hard for the people down there to count votes? We’re talking about a state where half the population can play 10 bingo cards at the same time. - Jay Leno “Mitt Romney’s family has been trying to console him since Tuesday’s loss. In fact, this morning they took him to Ikea just so he could feel what it’s like to put together a cabinet.” - Jay Leno “The big story here in Los Angeles is the Lakers have fired their coach, Mike Brown. They are playing so bad that President Obama and Chris Christie toured the Staples Center today.” - Jay Leno “Bloomberg had some incredibly careless reporting yesterday, saying that I called the president yesterday to congratulate him on his victory — absolutely careless, awful reporting. Listen guys, people take the stuff you write seriously and I try to speak with real precision behind this microphone. So

don’t report that I called the president when I didn’t; the president called me.” - New Jersey Governor Chris Christie

the Republicans. It seems that depression is covered by Obamacare.” - Jay Leno

“New study in today’s ‘Trends in Genetics’ says humans [are] gradually losing IQ. Another explanation for last week’s election results.” - Ann Coulter

“We will break grasping hands of Obama and we will be successful in bypassing the sanctions.” - Iran’s Vice President Mohammad Reza Rahimi

“The leadership in the Republican party and the leadership in the conservative movement have to pull back. Let people float new ideas, let’s have a serious debate. Don’t scream and yell when one person says, ‘You know what? It won’t kill the country if we raise taxes a little bit on millionaires.’ It really won’t, I don’t think...I don’t really understand why Republicans don’t take Obama’s offer to freeze taxes for everyone below $250,000 – make it $500,000, make it a million. Really? The Republican Party is going to fall on its sword to defend a bunch of millionaires, half of whom voted Democratic and half of whom live in Hollywood and are hostile to Republican principles.” - Conservative columnist Billy Kristol “Actually I thought Mitt Romney was very gracious last night. He gave a very touching concession speech. And the good news for Romney is that he can still run for president of the Cayman Islands.” - Jay Leno “I just want to sleep and exercise and travel for fun. And relax. It sounds so ordinary, but I haven’t done it for 20 years. I would like to see whether I can get untired. I work out and stuff, but I don’t do it enough and I don’t do it hard enough because I can’t expend that much energy on it.” - Hillary Clinton on what she plans on doing once she steps down as Secretary of State “Congratulations to President Obama on being reelected president of the United States. Turns out it is not all bad news for

“Both parties in Washington now agree that our country is headed toward a ‘fiscal cliff.’ The bad news: We just elected a guy whose campaign slogan was ‘Forward.’” - Jay Leno “We petition the Obama administration to peacefully grant the State of Louisiana to withdraw from the United States of America and create its own NEW government.” - Petition to the White House after President Obama won reelection. Since the petition received 25,000 signatures, the Obama White House is required to respond to it

You’re too late, nothing more to take. - Words spray painted on boarded-up McDonalds on Beach Channel Drive “Hey, any of you guys in there want to come sit in my chair today? Anybody? Nobody wants to come sit in my chair here? None of you? I mean, I’m giving you a golden opportunity to speak to, what, 50 million people. I can handle it. Okay, all right. So nobody wants to come sit in my chair today. Greetings, my friends. What happened? ... Conservatism, in my humble opinion, did not lose last night. It’s just very difficult to beat Santa Claus. It is practically impossible to beat Santa Claus. ” - Rush Limbaugh, opening his show the day after election day

Quotes

Compiled by Nate Davis

“Say What?” “Exit polls show that President Obama did well with women, beating Romney by 11 binders.” - Jay Leno “We heard moderate speech from Obama following his first term victory, but his policy was inconsistent with the speeches he gave in Egypt and Turkey. He now has an opportunity to implement those promises to the nations of the region, far from pressures by the Israel lobby and politicized money.” - Hamas spokesman, following Obama’s victory

Closed due to weather. - The sign on a FEMA office in Staten Island after last week’s snowfall

to put me and my family first, and you watch what’s gonna happen. I’m just one guy with 114 employees – well was 114 employees – watch what happens in the next six months.” - A Las Vegas employer in a radio interview illustrating the effects of President Obama’s reelection on his business “On Tuesday night, Mitt Romney’s staff briefly published his victory website by mistake. Republicans called it an embarrassing error, while Big Bird called it ‘the scariest two minutes of my life.’” - Jimmy Fallon “[President Obama] should reflect first on his own nation, which has a lot of economic and social problems. It’s a divided, socially fractured country with a super-elite exploiting the people.” - Hugo Chavez discussing President Obama’s election victory

“Trump is not giving up. When it was announced that President Obama easily won the Electoral College, Trump demanded to see Obama’s Electoral College records.” - Jay Leno “Obama’s victory demonstrates that the State of Israel must take care of its own interests. We cannot rely on anyone but ourselves. Obama has hurt the United States by his naïve leadership in foreign policy, which prefers the Arab world over the Western world, along with Israel. The state of Israel will not capitulate before Obama.” - Danny Danon, deputy speaker of Israel’s Knesset “I had to lay off 22 people today to make sure that my business is gonna thrive and I’m gonna be around for years to come. I have to build up that nest egg now for the taxes and regulations that are coming my way. Elections do have consequences, but so do choices. A choice you make every day has consequences and you know what, I’ve always put my employees first, but unfortunately today I have

“At one point, President Obama’s campaign put an exclamation point after ‘forward.’ It was just ‘forward’ and then it had an exclamation point. When did they decide that that was the right message for them?” - Diane Sawyer on ABC News’ election night coverage talking to Jay Tapper

He was shell-shocked. - Romney campaign adviser on the candidate’s reaction losing the election “NBC News was the first to call the election for President Obama. ABC News was the first to call a cab for Diane Sawyer.” - Jay Leno “I am not going to budge. I said in 2010 that I’m going to do this once, and I meant it.” - President Obama discussing the fiscal cliff “According to the real estate website Zillow, the White House is worth $283 million. When Mitt Romney heard that, he said, ‘You mean I could have just bought it?’” - Jay Leno

“I am glad to know that I did all that I could.” - Eric Hartsburg, who had the Romney logo tattooed onto his face during the election “I don’t think we lost it on those budget issues, I think people – especially on Medicare, we clearly didn’t lose it on those issues. I think what people want us to do is to tackle these issues and this country’s problems.” - Rep. Paul Ryan

“Republicans still will not admit that they underestimated the power of the Hispanic vote. As a matter of fact, Latinos are calling this Cinco Denio.” - David Letterman “I gave birth to twins, and I decided to name them after Barack Obama and Mitt Romney. I named the first twin Barack and the second one Mitt just the way Obama and Romney performed in the US election” - Millicent Awuor of Kenya, discussing the naming of her twins

T ThheeJJeewwi isshhhHoommee nnm ay n o v2e4m, b2012 e r 1 5 , 2012

Notable

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

My Israel Home Gedaliah Borvick

Combating Escalating Housing Prices

WE EE GUARANOTRE 30% M THAN ANYONE ELSE!

ith the exception of this past year in which prices have softened somewhat, Israel’s real estate prices over the past decade have risen significantly. Understandably, the Bank of Israel (Israel’s version of the US Federal Reserve) wants to prevent pricing from escalating to the point of creating a housing bubble with all its attendant risks. As a result, a few weeks ago, the Bank of Israel changed a number of housing lending requirements in order to help keep real estate pricing in check. First, the Bank of Israel placed mortgage restrictions on real estate investors who already own a home and are buying second and third homes as investments. Statistics indicate that this segment of buyers is driving up market prices. Therefore, the Bank of Israel has limited the mortgages that investors can obtain to a maximum of 50% of the apartment’s value. For example, if an apartment is sold for 2,000,000 NIS (or a little over $500,000) the largest mortgage that an investor can receive is 1,000,000 NIS (or shekels), thus requiring the buyer to put down 1,000,000 NIS. This larger equity requirement should reduce the amount of units that will be purchased by investors and consequently help keep prices down. Second, one of the Bank of Israel’s goals is to help first time buyers purchase apartments. The Bank of Israel addressed these buyers’ needs by lowering interest rates by .25%, bringing rates down to 2%. These lower interest rates will give first time buyers more financial flexibility, allowing them to afford larger mortgages for their home purchases. Third, the Bank of Israel has placed mortgage limitations on homebuyers, limiting them from borrowing more than 70% for a home. First time buyers, however, can borrow up to 75% of

the property’s value. This program sounds clever, as the Bank of Israel is placing restrictions on speculators, ensuring that first time home buyers not get priced out of the market. But the Bank of Israel’s restrictive measures don’t deal with the underlying reasons for the past decade’s considerable price increases. One major cause for the rising prices is that there are not enough apartments being developed to address the strong housing demand. This shortage can be traced to the Israel Land Authority’s (or Minhal’s) historically slow pace of selling government land for development. Thankfully, in response to the August 2011 “tent city demonstrations” in which thousands of Israelis rallied against the high cost of living and the lack of affordable housing, the Israeli government approved the Trachtenberg Committee’s housing recommendations, including requiring Minhal to sell enough land over the next five years to construct 187,000 apartments. With the implementation of the Bank of Israel’s new lending requirements and the Trachtenberg laws, along with other newly created programs, we are finally witnessing a concerted government effort to tackle the housing issue. If the government can develop and implement a system to fast-track the process of releasing state land for development – including expeditiously selling the land and promptly providing building permits – then they will be able to achieve pricing stability. Gedaliah Borvick is the founder of My Israel Home, a real estate agency focused on helping people from abroad buy and sell homes in Israel. To sign up for his monthly market updates, contact him at gborvick@gmail.com. Please visit his blog at www.myisraelhome.com.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Hundreds

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COST TO LOCAL YESHIVAS

Yeshiva Darchei Torah Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island Yeshiva of South Shore

For two decades, the CAHAL program has offered priceless services to children in our community. It has opened undreamed of opportunities and brighter futures by helping hundreds of boys and girls overcome their learning disabilities. And we do it at no cost to our 11 participating schools. How can we offer these unparalleled services to any child that qualifies? It is only through the generous support of donors like you.

Please help CAHAL continue to enable our children to reach their full potential and create a brighter future. Make a donation today: 516-295-3666 WWW.CAHAL.ORG

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T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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Mesivta Ateres Yaakov

Ruth & Hyman Simon High School 131 Washington Ave, Lawrence New York 11559 | Phone: 516.374.6465 | Fax: 516.374.1834

Prepare yourself for College and a career! • ChAllenging honors and advanced placement track • School-wide program to hone each student’s writing skills • sAt PrePArAtion in all grades • Individually tailored College guidAnCe beginning in 10th grade • College ProgrAM for seniors

Save the date for our upcoming Open House on December 2nd 2012 at 1:30

Interviews have begun! Contact the Yeshiva Office for an application and appointment.

Rabbeim for Life. Education for Life. Torah for Life.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

In the Kitchen A Slice of Something Nice

Pumpkin Pie Ingredients 1 ready-made graham cracker pie crust 4 tablespoons melted margarine 1-3/4 cups pumpkin puree 3 eggs 1-3/4 cups soy milk 1 cup dark brown sugar

1-¼teaspoons cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg ½ teaspoon ground ginger ½ teaspoon allspice ¼ teaspoon cloves ¼ - ½ teaspoon salt

Directions Preheat oven to 350°. Combine the margarine, pumpkin puree, eggs, soy milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, all spice, cloves and salt and mix well. Pour the mixture into the pie crust. Place the filled pie shell on a cookie sheet (to catch any dripping). Bake for about 50 minutes, until knife inserted into center comes out clean.

Sweet Potato Pie

Easy Classic Apple Pie

Ingredients 2 cups peeled, cooked sweet potatoes 1- ¼ cups sugar ½ stick melted margarine 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground ginger 1 cup soy milk 9-inch unbaked pie crust 3 egg whites

Ingredients 1 box refrigerated pie crust, softened 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (approx. 6 medium apples) ¾ cups sugar 2 tablespoons flour ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions Preheat the oven to 350°. Combine the potatoes, 1 cup of the sugar, margarine, eggs, vanilla, salt, and spices. Mix thoroughly. Add the soy milk and continue to mix. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Place the pie on a rack and cool to room temperature before covering with meringue. For the meringue: using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form; beat in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time. Continue beating until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is glossy and stiff, but not dry. With a rubber spatula, spoon the meringue onto the pie, forming peaks. Make sure the meringue touches the crust all around. Sprinkle with a pinch of granulated sugar. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until delicately browned. Cool and serve.

Directions Heat oven to 425°F. Place 1 pie crust in ungreased 9-inch glass pie plate. Press firmly against side and bottom. In large bowl, gently mix filling ingredients; spoon into crust-lined pie plate. Top with second crust. Wrap excess top crust under bottom crust edge, pressing edges together to seal; flute. Cut slits or shapes in several places in top crust. Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown. Cover edge of crust with 2- to 3-inch wide strips of foil after first 15 to 20 minutes of baking to prevent excessive browning. Cool on cooling rack at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with scoop of vanilla ice cream.

95 T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Mesivta Ateres Yaakov

Ruth & Hyman Simon High School 131 Washington Ave, Lawrence New York 11559 | Phone: 516.374.6465 | Fax: 516.374.1834

Become the Ben Torah you want to be! Molding Bnei Torah in a superior learning environment which is becoming a true Kol Torah for the entire community. Give your son the opportunity to be part of a dynamic yeshiva with challenging Limudei Kodesh and Limudei Chol academic programs.

Save the date for our upcoming Open House on December 2nd 2012 at 1:30

Interviews have begun!

Contact the Yeshiva Office for an application and appointment.

Rabbeim for Life. Education for Life. Torah for Life.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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Mesivta Ateres Yaakov

Ruth & Hyman Simon High School

131 Washington Ave, Lawrence New York 11559 | Phone: 516.374.6465 | Fax: 516.374.1834

Pursue your interests and broaden your horizons! Our many Student Life activities include: • Active Student GovernMent and many clubS • Varsity & Intramural SportS and competitions • Mock Trial | torAh bowl | Debate Team | ArIStA • Extensive cheSed program • Torah and other Student publIcAtIonS

Save the date for our upcoming Open House on December 2nd 2012 at 1:30

Interviews have begun! Contact the Yeshiva Office for an application and appointment.

Rabbeim for Life. Education for Life. Torah for Life.

urricane Sandy caused an electrical outage across many neighborhoods. Here in the Five Towns, many of us dealt with a sustained outage spanning more than 2 weeks. It has been interesting to hear how people express their frustration, using verbalizations such as “I have no power,” or “I miss my power” vs. language specifically referring to electricity, “My home has no electricity.” We often don’t realize how the way we think and talk can affect how we experience our roles in a disaster. Aside from the loss of possessions, cars, homes, and time, many have experienced a loss of control. We have been left believing we are helpless as our lives have been turned upside down by circumstances we seem unable to influence. However, when we learn to recognize the power within ourselves, we may find the external powerlessness easier to tolerate. Step 1: Understand Your Loss When people experience a period of stress, this can cause neuropsychological change. Perhaps the most primary change is the release of cortisol – a hormone associated with stress. We are feeling anxious (an emotion designed to motivate action to avoid real threat), and our minds and bodies are affected by thinking and physiological changes that are part of the natural “fight or flight” response. In simple language, this means that while we are experiencing the stressful after-effects of the hurricane during which we may need to make decisions about our children, our homes, and our livelihood, our brain function may be compromised. We may find ourselves struggling to remember details such as phone numbers, email addresses or due dates for important bills. We may feel overwhelmed by tasks we could have easily accomplished prior to the hurricane— such as filling out a FEMA application. This may culminate in a very real loss of control: engaging in emotion-driven behavior which usually hampers our problem solving abilities. Step 2: Honor Your Loss When talking with people in the community, we often hear a hesitance to express one’s own pain because others are suffering more damage: “I’ve been living out of a suitcase for the past two

Jonathan Cohen, PsyD and Sara Schwartz-Gluck, LCSW

I Want My Power Back weeks in my in-laws’ basement with my three kids, including a newborn. I haven’t showered in days. But I can’t complain because my neighbor’s whole basement was flooded, I feel so bad for them.” While acknowledging other people’s losses may help you maintain a sense of perspective, their pain does

or small they seem. Step 3: Reframe Your Loss Most stressful events are out of our control. However, if we perceive a sense of control within ourselves, that perception can help us cope with the situation. Let’s call this our “internal sense of control.” An “internal sense

When you allow yourself to feel your own pain, accept your own pain, and honor your own pain, it provides you with the tools for feeling other people’s pain.

not negate the struggles you are facing. It is okay to feel angry, sad, hopeless, scared, and worried. In fact, allowing yourself to feel your own emotions is a healthy part of being a compassionate person. When you allow yourself to feel your own pain, accept your own pain, and honor your own pain, it provides you with the tools for feeling other people’s pain. Further, if we take time to accept our feelings without demanding immediate resolutions to problems, we will allow for the dissipation of their intensity to a more manageable level where we can utilize constructive approaches to solving problems. Exercise: Make a list of all the things you have lost, tangible and intangible, due to the hurricane. For example: a week of work, sleep, basement, living room furniture, photo albums, car, time with spouse, peace of mind, favorite hairband, hours of exercise. Take a moment and allow yourself to feel whatever emotions surface. Embrace those emotions. It is okay and healthy to have a reaction to your losses, no matter how objectively big

of control” involves focusing on one’s reaction to the stress rather than on the stressor itself. It is the knowledge that our reactions (thoughts, feelings, and general behavior) to life events are entirely in our own control and nothing can change that. Current research shows that having a sense of internal control is associated with better adjustment to stress and better judgment during times of stress. Those of us with an external sense of control perceive ourselves as passive recipients of events. This makes us more likely to both overgeneralize the negative outcomes of stressful events and to minimize our ability to effectively respond to those events. When we exaggerate the negative outcomes of even truly difficult events like losing electric power or losing a home, we often ascribe unreasonably negative meanings to these situations without even realizing. For example, we may tell ourselves that “it will take forever to get my home repaired,” or that “we don’t have enough money to get us through this.” These thoughts paralyze us and cause us to feel depressed, angry

and irritable as we drive the message that we are powerless and helpless further into our minds and hearts. Sometimes, we minimize our own resilience. We automatically think that we “can’t handle all of this” or “it’s too much for me to deal with.” We then may avoid helpful courses of action like making a phone call to service providers, calling an organization for help or even making a “to-do” list because we feel anxious and overwhelmed. Exercise: Remember that list of your losses? Title that list “things that are OUT of my control.” Now begin a new list titled “things that are IN my control.” This list is for the things you ARE in control of, namely your personal reactions to the loss and stress you have experienced. For example: staying calm, calling FEMA, thanking your spouse for hard work, making a donation of time, clothes, or money, or assessing the damage to your belongings. The more we focus on the things that are in our control, the more empowered and in control we will feel. We can take small steps toward recovering from the hurricane. We can recognize and accept our losses. And we can believe that the power to choose how we react to stress lies within our own selves. South Shore Cognitive Therapy (SSCT) uses the latest scientific and evidence-based cognitive and behavioral treatments to alleviate emotional problems. Our experienced clinicians offer intensive and customized treatment plans that enable our clients to maintain a high level of personal control throughout the treatment process. Jonathan Cohen, PsyD is the director of SSCT and has advanced training in evidenced-based therapies for emotional and behavioral disorders. Sara Schwartz-Gluck, LCSW is a trauma specialist who has treated adult and child survivors of trauma throughout NY and NJ. South Shore Cognitive Therapy is available to assist the community during this time. If you need help due to Hurricane Sandy, or if you are unsure whether you are managing the stress in a healthy manner, please call our office to schedule a consultation free of charge. During this session, a trauma specialist experienced in working with children and adults will perform a brief assessment and discuss practical techniques for effectively managing the stress in this time of crises.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Health & Fitness

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Health & Fitness

Social Smarts

Devorah Gerber Schmeltz

Bath Time Tips Dear Devorah, I have a six-year-old daughter who has sensory issues. What I find most difficult is getting her to take a shower. It is a struggle to get her in and once she is in the shower, she screams ands cries that the water is “hurting” her; furthermore, it is a challenge, to say the least, to suds her with soap. The constant battles have become so exhausting I’m embarrassed to say it has come to the point that she showers just once a week before Shabbos only because I insist on it and threaten she will not have dessert at the Shabbos meal. Is there anything I can do to make the situation more manageable for both of us? Laura K., Kew Garden Hills Dear Laura, Without additional details to get a clearer picture of your daughter, it is difficult to offer on-target advice. However, based on some of the behavior you describe I will list some pointers you may use to try to make bath time fun time! 1. Opt for a bath instead of a shower—this way she won’t feel the water spraying on her face and body. 2. Allow her to soap her own body. She can use a soap mitt or sponge. There are many fun child-friendly designs available. It may be best to go shopping and have her choose her fa-

vorite design. 3. Choose shampoos that are tearfree such as Johnson and Johnson. 4. If your goal is a bath everyday or every other day, you must stick with it; absolutely no exceptions and do not give in to her demands. 5. Create a routine at night such as supper, then bath time, reading books and finally going to sleep. Sticking with a routine will help create structure and predictability. 6. Provide your daughter with reminders during the day such as, “For supper we are having macaroni and cheese and after supper is bath time.” This way bath time doesn’t come on suddenly and unexpectedly. Wishing you the best of luck! -Devorah Devorah (Gerber) Schmeltz, MS OTR/L is a 2003 alumnus of Downstate Medical Center’s OT Program. She is a senior occupational therapist at United Cerebral Palsy’s Brooklyn Children’s Program. Devorah maintains a private practice, Bumble & Tumble Occupational Therapy P.C., in Far Rockaway, NY providing pediatric occupational and physical therapy. Department of Education vouchers/RSAs are gladly accepted. Your questions and comments are welcome. She can be reached at BumbleTumble Therapy@gmail.com or 917-971-5327.

Rifka Schonfeld

Boosting My Child’s Self Esteem Q: Everywhere I look, I read about how important it is for my children to have a healthy self-esteem. Overall, I think most of my children are pretty confident and comfortable in their own skin. I have one daughter with dyslexia who always seems to feel stupid around her siblings. I try telling her that she is wonderful and smart, but she just brushes me off. Is there some way that I can help boost her self-esteem? A: Research shows that children with learning disabilities (LD) like dyslexia are more likely to suffer from low selfesteem than their peers. The Coordinated Campaign for Learning Disabilities has compiled a list of ways that parents can help children with LD gain self-esteem: • Special time. Set aside designated time with your child to explore her interests. This time need not be daily, but if possible, should happen at the same time weekly. This special time will give her the message that you value her and enjoy your time together. In addition, you will be participating in an activity that she enjoys. • Develop problem-solving skills. Not everyone automatically knows what to do when they encounter a problem. If your child is having trouble with a friend or cannot figure out a math question, talk to her about the ways she can approach the problem. Ask her to suggest multiple paths to get to a plausible conclusion. This will give her confidence when she encounters a similar problem in the future. • Practice empathy. Raising children with different needs can sometimes be frustrating. You might find yourself telling your daughter, “Why don’t you listen to me?” or “Just think about it! You’ll understand.” Chances are that most of the time, your daughter is trying her best to listen and understand. Instead, try to place yourself in her shoes and say, “I know you are trying to listen and that sometimes that

is difficult. Let’s try that again.” When you practice empathy, she will be more likely to think kindly of herself. • Highlight strengths. While learning disabilities often come with multiple disadvantages, often they have some benefits too. Children with dyslexia are often more creative and artistic than their peers. Consider signing your daughter up for art or drama classes. Doing something that she is good at can boost her self-esteem tremendously and provide her with an opportunity to make likeminded friends. • P r o v i d e opportunities for child to help. When people help others, they automatically feel competent and confident. Provide your daughter with plenty of opportunities to help others. Volunteering outside of the home is just one avenue, but even helping siblings at home can be great encouragement. She can teach a younger sibling to tie his shoe or help an older sibling braid her hair. Alternatively, you can teach her to bake her favorite cake and then she can bake it for Shabbos. Regardless of the task, if your daughter feels that she is making a contribution to society or the family, she will gain self-confidence. The hard part about self-esteem is that it comes from within, but with a few small steps, your daughter can start to feel like the wonderful girl you already know she is. The opinions expressed in this article reflect the view of the author and those cited by her. In all matters of hashkafah and chinuch, readers should seek reliable rabbinical guidance. Mrs. Rifka Schonfeld, founder and director of Strategies for Optimum Success (S.O.S.) in 1980, services all grade levels in secular as well as Hebrew studies. A long-time kriah and reading specialist, she offers evaluations, as well as G.E.D. preparation, social skills training and shidduch coaching. She can be reached at 718-382-5437 or at rifkaschonfeld@verizon.net.

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

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DrDeb

Dr. Deb Hirschhorn

TJH Staff

What Hypnosis Is

y belief that even the most troubled marriages can transform into wonderful, fulfilling relationships comes from the fact that I believe Hashem provides refuah. Hypnosis is one such refuah. Why? Because it’s all about quieting your mind—which makes room for great productivity, as you will see. Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state. Many people believe they can’t “get” hypnotized when, actually, they fall into trance all the time. For example, in boring classes or lectures, you may notice your mind “wandering.” Where does it go? Generally, when something rouses you out of your reverie, you might not even know what you were thinking when it “went.” That’s trance, or self-hypnosis. Your mind simply blanked out into a pleasant state of relaxation—until someone drew your attention to the fact that you weren’t paying attention. Another example occurs all the time during driving. That may be more of an explanation for accidents than cellphones. People’s focus simply drifts off due to the monotony of the road. In fact, on the open road this phenomenon has a name—road hypnosis. Still another example occurs when you read a great book or see a riveting movie. Not only do you forget or not notice your surroundings, but you may become so involved with the characters that you feel emotions related to their lives. Haven’t we all seen—and succumbed to—some “tear-jerkers”? Why do we cry at fiction? Because we are “in” it; we become part of the story. That is the objective of the author and screenwriter. And we like it too. It’s a way of leaving our reality for a little while; it’s a break. Same thing with hypnosis. You have just explained self-hypnosis that just sort of “happens.” What about going to a therapist for hypnosis? In all the examples above, there are three key elements: The desire or willingness to relax or drift off, the presence of an alternative focus of attention, and the right circumstances in which to do it. You may disagree about

the driving. You may, correctly, feel that no one wants to get into an accident by “spacing out.” However, many people who feel themselves beginning to do this will either pull off the road and rest, put on loud music with a beat, or use other methods to keep focused. Those who do not do this do realize they are not alert but convince themselves that they are, kind of like people who drink too much and say, “I’m not drunk.” It’s called denial. Drivers who do drift off must be so tired that they simply allow their bodies to dictate to them their reaction, which, for the sake of their health, they should. The wise ones get off the road first. A good therapist can help you create these conditions for yourself—pro-

with this, as in the use of insurance companies, the degree of disclosure to these third-party payors must be revealed. Then the decision to use insurance would be up to you. Of course, there should be no interruptions during hypnosis. Sometimes, noises can’t be helped and the skillful therapist would know how to incorporate these into the trance experience. Comfort also means you are neither hot nor cold, are sitting comfortably, do not have restrictive clothing, and so on, so that the state of relaxation can be achieved. Finally, safety means that you should be able to exit the trance at will if something in the situation warrants it in your opinion. The therapist should

Using hypnosis, people have had childbirth, dental work and surgery without medication – and not felt the pain.

vided you do want to experience that state of pleasant relaxation. The willingness is yours, the alternative focus of attention are the ideas the therapists suggests you think about, and the circumstances are the comfort and feeling of safety you have with your therapist. How does the therapist create a feeling of comfort and safety? Study after study in the psychotherapy field has shown that the relationship between client and therapist is the moving force behind reaching your therapy goals. Hypnosis is another example of therapy, so the first requirement is for the therapist to be a person that you like, trust, respect, and relate to. Therapists put a lot of personal energy into their own self-development as human beings to become people whom others feel comfortable and safe connecting to. For hypnotherapy, as in other therapy, the clinician should also assure you that the ethics of the profession require all communications be absolutely confidential. When there are problems

assure you of this and describe how you can do it before the session gets underway. An intermediate position to take would be not to exit the trance but have a means of communication set up in advance to let the therapist know that something is making you uncomfortable. Therapists often suggest you can raise your first finger, or any number of other signs as “lifelines.” Why would a person need hypnosis instead of ordinary talk therapy? Hypnosis is useful as an adjunct to therapy for several reasons. First, the problem with talk therapy may be that there’s too much talking and not enough time for thinking. Sometimes the “noise” of our talk blocks out our creativity and our memory. By relaxing, clearing our minds, and creating a mental openness to whatever comes up, we can tap into our creative process and/or access old and useful memories. Haven’t you sometimes noticed that you wake up in the morning with a problem that you went to bed with the night before solved? That’s where

the expression “sleep on it” came from. Same thing with hypnosis. In fact, I would submit to you that the reason some people believe they “can’t” go into hypnosis is that they haven’t learned the art of letting go of all their self-talk. A skillful therapist can help people learn to relax and let go. A second reason for hypnosis is that it utilizes our fantastic powers of imagination to literally control our bodily functions. By now, you have probably heard of fire-walking, yogis who can change their heart rate, and so on. When done skillfully with a trained psychotherapist, you literally can learn to control your body functions. Using hypnosis, people have had childbirth, dental work and surgery without medication—and not felt the pain. People who are in pain may be able to reduce it as well (depending on the degree of intrusion of the pain while attempting to relax). Regarding use of hypnosis for pain-control, it is better to prepare for the painful event ahead of time rather than wait until afterward. It’s the true meaning of “mind over matter.” Wouldn’t medication be more effective than hypnosis for pain control? Medicine is a great thing. Surgery and medication gave my mother an extra 10 years of life that enabled her to see all four of her grandchildren arrive in this world. But even the best things have limitations. Right now there are new hospital rules that require patients in pain be medicated enough to really deaden the pain. Unfortunately, sometimes the degree of pain is too great to accomplish this. When my son had surgery, the morphine drip did not work and the Percocet he came home with didn’t help much either. He opted to forgo them because of their side-effects while not doing their job. Hypnosis would have avoided both problems. Furthermore, even if the medication does work, the more it slows the system down, the slower the healing process as well. So there is a balance that doctors struggle with every day between pain-control and over-medication. Hypnosis makes sense here too. What about depression, anxiety, and

Moderated by Sarah Schwartz-Schreiber

Should We Become Neighbors with My Husband’s Rude Friends? We are a young couple with four children living in a three bedroom apartment in Far Rockaway. We have been looking for a house for more than two years. Recently a friend of my husband’s called to say there is a perfect house for sale directly across the street from his—a beautiful house at a reasonable price. Problem is, my husband’s friend is a notorious rabble-rouser and gossipmonger. He always complains about his job, his wife, his home and points jealously to us as a couple “that has it all.” Should we stay away? Houseless in Far Rockaway

Lorraine from North Woodmere responds: A home is a place where a family should feel comfortable. They should be able to connect with each other in their own space and grow together. I don’t think living next to this couple would be conducive to these goals. I would suggest moving to another block—there are always other houses on the market and you will be better off in the long run.

Sarah from Midwood responds: The three most important factors to consider in a house are: location, location, location. A corollary to that rule may be: the neighbors, the neighbors, the neighbors. Let me tell you the story of the Cohens. They were a lovely family who lived across the street. No one understood why they moved out of their beautifully renovated house, sold

at a very reasonable price. Her house was charming, but her neighbor and his children less so. This I discovered after Susie, the woman who bought her house, confided to me. In fact, the neighbor was so obnoxious, Susie didn’t last very long either. Maybe the same dynamic is happening here. No, don’t ring the bell and don’t buy this house. Soon your dream home will materialize.

Ayala from Woodmere responds: When we were younger, my husband and I spent many months looking for the perfect house. We knew that we wanted to live in a certain area and wanted to buy the “perfect” home for our growing family. After many months, we finally found the house that suited all our needs. My husband happened to have known an acquaintance who lived on the block

other psychological problems? Medicine is pretty powerful. Some people believe that psychological problems come from the “wrong” brain chemistry, called a “chemical imbalance.” The right chemistry in the form of medication is needed to correct this problem. In truth, no research has established which came first, the bad chemistry or the sad ways of thinking that etched neural pathways into our brains. But research does show that brain chemistry can be changed by thinking differently. Of course, when you’re down it’s very difficult to think happy thoughts. Very, very difficult. That is why doctors frequently recommend medication to get the ball rolling. However, without concomitant psychotherapy, two things happen: (1) The body can build a tolerance for the medication. It is as if the brain chemicals for sadness are saying, “This is the real me and I want to come out.” Either a person needs higher and higher doses or the medication just stops working. That’s one reason why the pharmaceutical industry is so busy making newer and newer drugs. (2) The second thing is that you still have not learned how to think differently. You have not learned coping skills. Thus, you keep taking the medication and feeling badly about yourself. That

is, it fosters dependence—the exact opposite of what you need to develop healthy self-confidence and self-esteem. So the act of taking medication in and of itself can be depressing for a depressed or anxious person. That is why psychotherapy is essential for depressed and anxious people. Psychotherapy literally trains the brain how to think differently under stress and pain. And hypnosis may be a good way to achieve that state of relaxation and creative openness necessary to do it.

when he can re-experience the original formation of the belief that “people you love leave you,” he can also challenge it because he knows now, as a rational adult, that that is not necessarily true. Thus, hypnosis has healing power to reevaluate beliefs and deep feelings. This goes way beyond mere relaxation and is what I mean by creative openness. As you can see, this openness is useful for many personal goals, not just emotional problems. It can be used to uncover blocks to success for example.

What do you mean by creative openness? Not only will hypnosis relax you so your mind is free, but it is useful to pinpoint beliefs that hinder change. We all form beliefs as we grow up and some of them are childish because, obviously, we were children when we formed them. Of course, we forget how we formed them or what they are even about sometimes. We just go on with our lives but these beliefs can hold us back. By going back to the memories of when these beliefs were formed, we can challenge them—and permanently change them. The little boy whose mother died and who, as an adult, is afraid of relationships, may not see the psychological connection. Even if it is pointed out, he doesn’t “feel” it. But under hypnosis,

It sounds like you’re saying this can help me in business as well? Absolutely. Sometime as we grew up, we developed ways of thinking about ourselves that can be roadblocks to success. Hypnosis can free us to think and feel differently about ourselves, provided it addresses the precise times in our lives when the unsuccessful thinking patterns started. That is why a skilled hypnotherapist can be so helpful. You have mentioned a skilled hypnotherapist several times. What exactly are the criteria for being one? Minimally, a therapist in the State of New York has a Master’s Degree and a License in Marriage and Family Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, Social

who rubbed him a little bit of the wrong way. We were hesitant to purchase the home, but really felt that after so many months of searching, this house was the one for us. To make a long story short, we bought the house, became friends with those neighbors and are still great friends even though we moved out of the neighborhood years later. You never know how things will turn out. If you feel that this house is the most perfect one for you and your family, take the plunge…it may just work out beautifully! Deena from Far Rockaway responds: Don’t buy the house. It could be too much aggravation. These people sound obnoxious and rude. Why would you want to live right next to them? These are the type of people who you only stay “friends” with if you keep your distance.

Work, or Psychiatric Nursing. In some other states, Professional Certification follows the Master’s Degree instead of a state license. After that, hypnosis certification in Florida requires 50 hours of coursework, including practice, under a State-approved provider of continuing education credits. If a person has neither a degree nor a license but practices hypnosis, he or she is practicing therapy without a license and can be fined or charged with a crime. Furthermore, the practice of therapy is an art, not a science, and nothing substitutes for years of experience. However, those years should be quality years. That is, the person should be growing and developing as a human being, learning from mistakes, trying new things, and still be excited about the process of therapy. Dr. Deb Hirschhorn has had over 35 years clinical experience. She has been in numerous publications, both professional and for the public, and has appeared on TV and has been featured on radio. She practices Marriage-Friendly Therapy. She has a local practice in Woodmere, N.Y. See her website, http://drdeb.com, or call her at 646-54-DRDEB.

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Ask the Attorney

Roman Aminov, Esq

The Power of Attorney Q: My mother is getting older and frailer. I am concerned about her being able to handle her finances and make decisions about her finances, home, or governmental support programs. What is the best course to follow now? A: There are a few different options which can protect your mother and her loved ones in the event that she is no longer able to handle her own affairs including guardianships, living trusts, and joint accounts. However, the easiest, most effective, and least expensive option is often the Statutory Short Form Power of Attorney (“POA”) which allows a competent individual who is at least 18 years old (the principal) to designate an agent to handle their financial, business, and real estate-related affairs. Through a detailed and statutorily recognized writing, your mother can empower her agent to act on her behalf as per the directions and limitations spelled out in the POA. The agent can do no more than a properly drafted POA allows, which makes proper drafting crucial. A POA can allow an agent to deposit checks, pay bills, transfer real estate, manage finances, and open and close financial accounts on behalf of your mother while acting in a fiduciary capacity. You mom will have peace of mind knowing that her finances, and her family, will be taken care of in the event that she is not capable of handling them on her own. Preparing a POA can save thousands of dollars and many months which are required to obtain guardianship over an incapacitated individual’s finances. Q: Whom Should My Mother Designate As Her Agent? A: The general rule is that she should only appoint those individuals whom she would trust with her credit card or a blank check. The agent can be anyone that the principal trusts to manage his/her affairs, but is generally the spouse and/or children. A typical POA appoints the spouse as the agent and the child(ren) as successor agents in the event that the spouse is unable to act. Since a POA gives the agent power to manage the principal’s finances, it should be given with much thought. Your mother can also name co-trust-

ees, which means that multiple agents will have to act together to accomplish anything. This can be an effective way to prevent one agent from having unbridled control but can make it more difficult to accomplish even a simple transaction. Another way to oversee the acts of the agent is to appoint a monitor over him/her, although this is seldom

prove that your mother is, in fact, incapacitated or incompetent. Q: When Does the Power Terminate? A: A competent principal can revoke the POA at any time by giving notice to the agent and preferably any institutions which the agent may have

You mom will have peace of mind knowing that her finances and her family will be taken care of in the event that she is not capable of handling them on her own.

done; if you need someone to monitor your agent, maybe you shouldn’t appoint them in the first place. Q: When Can My Mother’s Agent Begin to Act? A: Your mother can either give the agent the authority to act immediately upon execution of the POA or can decide to allow the authority to “spring” into effect based on her incapacity. If “springing powers” are used, the agent can only act after your mother is shown to be incapacitated by a letter from her treating physician or by another physician if the treating physician is not available. This will assure your mom that the agent cannot do anything while she is still competent, but will make it more burdensome for the agent to

already used the POA. If the principal does not, or cannot, revoke, we look at what type of POA was given. There are two general types of Powers of Attorney: (1) Durable Power of Attorney and (2) NonDurable Power of Attorney. A durable power of attorney survives the p r i n c i p a l ’s subsequent incapacity while the non-durable power of attorney ceases to be valid if the principal becomes incapacitated. For obvious reasons, the durable POA is the only one that I recommend clients use in order to plan for incapacity. A non-durable POA is useful in situations where incapacity is not the reason for its creation, such as when one spouse cannot attend a house closing in person. A POA can also terminate the agent’s authority at a certain date

or after a certain goal has been accomplished. Q: How Can My Mother Execute a Power of Attorney? A: It is important for your mother to see an attorney while she is still capable of understanding the necessity and effects of a POA. After a POA has been properly drafted your mother would need to initial next to each power which she wishes to confer upon her agent. She then signs the POA and has her signature notarized. The POA is not effective, however, until her agent signs and acknowledges that he has read the section titled “Important Information For Agent” which explains the agent’s role, fiduciary obligations, and limitations on his authority. The agent does not have to sign at the same time as the principal, and successor agents do not have to sign at the same time as the primary agent. Roman Aminov, Esq. is a trusts and estates attorney concentrating on estate planning, elder law, and probate. He is experienced in the drafting of wills, powers of attorney, health care proxies, and trusts of all types. Contact Roman Aminov at (347) ROMAN-85 for comments on this article.

The questions addressed in this column will be answered by attorneys who are part of the CNG Networking Group. CNG Networking Group is an Orthodox Jewish networking group which meets in Queens and Long Island. The attorney sub-group of CNG has 8 members with various specialties: Trusts & Estates, Real Estate, Matrimonial, Criminal, Personal Injury, Trademarks/Copyright, Tax, Non-profits, Litigation. We welcome questions from readers on a wide range of legal matters. Please submit your legal questions to SchechterLaw@gmail.com. While we do not provide specific legal advice, we hope to present readers with a greater understanding of the issues presented and potential means of resolving difficulties. No column is a substitute for competent legal advice. Please consult with the attorney of your choice concerning specific legal questions you may have.

Avi Heiligman

The Unlikely Heroes of Machal

e have discussed in past ated the game anti-monopoly. ever, there were some English soldiers dogfight with an IAF fighter. It was latarticles the heroes of the Aboard a transport plane from who saw through bigotry that most er learned that the Spitfire wasn’t Arab Israeli War of Independence Rome to Tel Aviv were two nuns from Brits had and wanted to help the Israe- but British. However, Dawson wasn’t in 1948, especially those who came South Africa. Sisters Audrey Benedict lis fight for their country. (On the other disciplined. from abroad to help with the fighting. In 1947, he befriended a captured These brave men and women joined Haganah fighter named Elihau Shapiro the ranks of the Palmach and IDF in and told him of his desire to defect to Slade went through the war wearing a cross, newly created Machal units. Machal the Haganah. Shapiro arranged everystands for Misnadvei Chutz L’Aretz thing and Dawson rode out of camp a Navajo charm necklace, and a mezuzah or volunteers from outside the land. one day and didn’t return. He wasn’t Most of these people gained combat the only one to leave the British Army and claimed that one of the three experience during World War II (1939and join the IDF’s 8th Armored Briprotected him from harm. 1945) and were eager to help their gade. Paddy Flanagan served with brothers keep their land. They were a Dawson and had this to say about his few, however, that had more peculiar experience: “We had three tanks – two reasons and even more unbelievable Cromwells and a Sherman. [One of stories as to why they were fighting for and Marie Roux were answering a call hand, many British officers stayed to them was “borrowed” from the Brits Israel. The stories that follow are of from a South African doctor in Israel help the Arabs.) Johnny Dawson was by Dawson.] We scrounged together men and women that despite not being for more nurses. They, however, did one of these soldiers. He was disgust- from scrap taken from the desert, courJewish, decided to help the Jewish not know their destination and were ed with the British policy against the tesy of the campaign during World War nation fight for their country. surprised to hear it over the II. That was it. We were A good example of an unlikely loudspeaker on the plane. the only tanks Israel had. machalnik was Jesse “Tex” Slade. He When they got to Israel, When I think back to the was a Navajo Native American who Benedict was detained beodds stacked against us, joined the 4th Troop Volunteer. He cause she wasn’t Jewish those Arabs were armed went through the war wearing a cross, (Roux wasn’t either) and to the teeth, it was amaza Navajo charm necklace and a mezu- didn’t have the right paing we survived, let alone zah and claimed that one of the three pers. They were released won!” Sergeant Desmond protected him from harm. He fought when an official who was Rutledge also served with through the war and didn’t receive a expecting their arrival Dawson and Flanagan and single scratch or wound and was quot- came to their rescue and later changed his name to ed as saying, “You’all just can’t be too sent them in an ambulance Zvi Rimer. careful with all them bombs and bul- to Bat Galim Hospital in The 8th Brigade was a lets flyin’ around.” After the war, he Haifa. They worked on magnet for several Machal operated a cattle ranch in the Negev. all types of patients from soldiers especially those Ralph Anspach served as a gunner newborns to wounded solwho defected from the in the 4th Troop and remembered Tex diers. Then they moved British Army. Machal solSlade. According to Anspach, Slade to the Rambam Hospital diers flocked from around A group of Machal volunteers. The two on the right aren’t Jewish. had served in the American Army where they worked for the world to join the newly during World War II a plastic created IDF and many of and was greeted with surgeon. After the war, Jews and after the war converted to Ju- these served with distinction. For men prejudice by most of Benedict left Israel, daism and married a Jewish girl. like Dawson and Slade and women the officers. The only married and moved Dawson joined the British Army like Benedict and Roux, even though person to give him to South Africa. Roux with the intent to fight Nazi enemies they weren’t Jewish, it was more than proper respect was a moved to New York but instead was sent to fight against its just another battle; it was to help Israel Jewish officer named but came back to Is- victims. He was given the hazardous in her most desperate hour. rael during the Sinai job of riding his motorcycle through Captain Grossman Campaign of 1956 and an area that was active with both Arab and being that this the Six Day War of and Haganah fighters. He was shot at was the only positive 1967 to help with the by both sides but quickly found out Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to part of his army experience, he decided purchasing of needed where the Jews were and refused to fire The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comto look into the Jewmedical supplies. at them like some of his “comrades” ments and suggestions.for future columns ish nation. This was Before Israel be- were doing. He later was given the and can be reached at aviheiligman@ reasoning for joining came a country, it was unhappy task of checking immigrants gmail.com. Jesse Tex Slade the Palmach during under British control. coming on ships from Europe and felt the War of IndepenThere was no love lost their pain as the British government dence. Anspach became famous later when the Brits left after their mandate treated them roughly. His main job on when, as an economics professor at was over because the two sides had was as a gunner and once he shot down San Francisco State University, he cre- many ideological differences. How- a Spitfire fighter aircraft that was in a

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Forgotten Heroes

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Health & Fitness

veryone in the Five Towns/Far Rockaway area has borne witness to the devastating effects of Super Storm Sandy. Some sustained partial/ total destruction to cars and houses, and others weathered it through with “only” loss of power for a neverending amount of days. We were all in the dark, quite cold, and certainly not watching our diets. I hope that by now many of you have returned to some semblance of normalcy, although for some that will take quite a while. Like the infamous “freshman 15” or “seminary 20,” the “Sandy 5” is quite real, and requires some cleanup of its own. Our hurricane diet consisted of bagels, pizza, crackers, chips, pretzels, nuts, chocolate, and basically anything that was easy to grab and didn’t need refrigeration. These high carb and high fat foods did their own damage, leaving many of us up on our scales. Follow these tips, and your Sandy 5 will be just a bad dream.

Aliza Beer, M.S., R.D.

Surviving the Sandy Five Stock Up your Refrigerator: Now that it is empty, buy all the right foods, like fruits, vegetables, nonfat yogurt, and lean proteins. Don’t re-stock your supply of muffins, cookies, chips, etc.; just buy the absolute bare minimum of these “junky” foods that your family requires. Drink a lot of Water: I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, water is an appetite suppressant, it will help fill you up, and you will eat less. It will also help rid you of all the toxins that have been building up in you these last two weeks. Drink a minimum of 8 cups of water a day. Don’t Skip Meals: When you skip a meal, you slow down your metabolism, and you set yourself up for overeating at the next meal. The more often you eat, the more you will burn. Snack on fruits/veggies between your meals, so you don’t come starving to the next meal. Take snacks/meals with you if you know you will be gone all day.

When you plan in advance, there is less of a chance you will stray over the course of the day. Keep a Log: Try writing down what you’re eating every day for a week. You might be surprised at how much you are really eating! Keeping a log will help you stay on track, and inhibit you from cheating, or cheating very badly. Exercise: Now that the weather turned a little warmer, try to walk when you can. Take advantage of the fact that the gyms have power again! Spinning, zumba, and kickboxing are all great cardio workouts and will help you burn fat. The longer you let this sudden weight gain stick to you, the harder it is to get rid of it. Take action before your body gets comfortable at this number, for once it gets comfortable at this number it will become the new norm. There is much in life, such as the weather, that we have no control over, but our diet is

one of the few things that is very much in our control. Get your mind back in the game, and seize control of your dietary and nutrition intake once again. Be healthy and keep safe! Aliza Beer is a registered dietician with a Master’s degree in nutrition. She has a private practice in Cedarhurst, NY. Patients’ success has been featured on the Dr. Oz Show. Aliza’s new line of prepared, healthy meals-to-go are available at Gourmet Glatt. Aliza can be reached at alizabeer@gmail.com.

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In the Kitchen Naomi Nachman

TOM KHA KAI: Thai Chicken-Coconut Soup

his is one of the recipes I tell people, “Don’t knock it until you try it!” My husband and I were in Florida a few weeks ago, right before the storm hit. We went out to dinner to this amazing Thai/Indian/Japanese restaurant in North Miami called Thai Treat. Looking over the menu we were overwhelmed, as this was no typical menu. We were used to sushi, but not Thai or Indian food. After choosing a terrific dinner, our favorite was the soup. Here is my version of this classic Thai Chicken Coconut Soup. I hope you will like it as much as we do. TIP: the chicken I used was chicken left over from the chicken soup or, alternatively, you can throw in left-over chicken from a previous meal. In any case, it’s a great recipe for using up some left-overs. Naomi Nachman moved from Australia approximately 20 years ago and, in 2004, started “The Aussie Gourmet” to cater weekly and Shabbat/Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities. Naomi is also sought after to teach cooking classes throughout the NY/NJ Metropolitan area (from Scarsdale to Boro Park, Manhattan to Teaneck, the Hamptons and Connecticut… and of course, The Five Towns). She has also taught classes in Florida, Australia and Israel. Naomi is a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, a cooking CD and a variety of newspaper articles. Naomi currently lives in Woodmere, NY with her husband and 4 daughters.

Ingredients 3 cups chicken broth 1 x 14 oz. can coconut milk 1 inch piece grated ginger 1 cup shredded boneless chicken 1 cup cremini button mushrooms 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium) 2-3 dashes hot sauce 1/2 cup cilantro leaves Serrano chilies, sliced (optional) Directions Combine chicken broth, coconut milk and ginger in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir for 1 minute. Add chicken and stir for 1 minute. Add mushrooms, lime juice, sugar, soy sauce and hot sauce and stir for 1 minute. Add cilantro leaves and simmer for 15 minutes. For a hotter experience, top with

sliced Serrano’s. Garnish with a sprig of cilantro.

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Rebbetzin Naomi N. Herzberg

Talents and Passions – Part Two This article has been written in response to the many questions that I have been asked about helping children find their talents and positive reinforcement, while guiding in the process of developing hidden talents. Has your child demonstrated an interest in something that they find especially intriguing or exciting? Are they emotionally challenged by that particular thing? Have you found that when

e of need. rder.

again.

Valid till 11/22/12

he/she is in the midst of reading about it, observing or partaking in a particular activity, they become extremely happy? Do they seem to be completely immersed in something that brings on unexpected energy as he/she becomes completely focused and involved at the moment? Watch for the signs that repeat themselves over and over again. I once read that “flow is the mental state of operation in which the person is fully immersed in what he or she is doing by a feeing of energized focus, full involvement, and success in the process of the activity.” What a true statement this is! When he/she is in that special state of mind, absorbed in a subject, observation or activity with a warm and invit-

ing smile on their face, take note. Speak about feelings, be sensitive to needs and help set goals. Make sure that the goals are realistic, both in time and financial. Do not offer what you cannot deliver. Everyone has a different way of learning. Try and locate a learning style. He/she might need to attend courses in order to perfect and gain more knowledge, or become an apprentice and learn from a professional, through direct observation. Find people in the field that they can relate to and do inquiry. Exposure to a particular area of interest is important. A lot can be gained from experiences. For the beginner, classes are a great option. Make sure that whatever class he/she is enrolled in is on the correct level. Beginner, intermediate and advance classes do differ. Joining together with others at a similar level and with the same interest will offer a motivating and focused experience. By attending structured classes that teach

actual skills he/she will obtain the tools needed to succeed and gain confidence. Try not to stifle any interest, unless of course, you feel that it is harmful. Be sure to seek advice in dealing with issues that you are not comfortable with, from the proper authority. Make sure to go to the public library to retrieve books on any topic of interest. Have them available to read and explore. Help in the nurturing process of the talents and passions of your children, by showing them that you care. Hatzlacha!

Just what you Just what hadyou in mind. had in mind. OPEN THIS See you Now open there.

Rebbetzin Naomi N. Herzberg is a professional art educator, artist and designer. Among her known artwork is a floral sculpture presented to Tipper Gore, Blair House, Washington, D.C. Presently she is the Director of Operations at Shulamith School for Girls. Please feel free to email nherzberg@ optonline.net with questions and suggestions for future columns.

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2 BR over 3 BR. Lrg Bsmt. LR/DR C/A, drvway, Walk to the beach. Only $495K. Won't last , buy with as little as 3% down. Call 718-643-7700

Bayswater, New to Market Large ranch, excellent condition, cul-desac, frum block, 4 bedrooms, alarm, large finished basement, 2 zone heat, huge backyard, waterfront view $470K Negotiable/$2,000 Rent Owner- 718-327-7154. Far Rockaway. brand New Construction, 2fam house, Lrg 3BR, 2baths over 6BR, 3baths, Lrg LV/DR, C/A, drvway, huge bsmt. Walk to the beach. Only $765K. Call 718-643-7700

House For Sale in Far Rockaway Fully detached, move in condition, four bedrooms, one and half bathrooms, enclosed yard, eat in kitchen. Asking $575,000. 516-234-8665

Luxury Apartments for Short/Long Term rentals in Miami Newly Renovated, magnificient views. Buildings w shul, shabbos elevator, heated pool, beach & boardwalk access email: miamiluxuryrentals@yahoo.com Inwood Colonial for SALE Remodeled large 4 bd 2 full baths Lv, Fdr Fam Rm,Sun Rm, Huge Bsmt. & yard walking dist to Yeshiva Ketana Only $ 405k E Davenport, Agent 516-513-4099 Moonlight Cottages, Modern Orthodox, beautiful, newly renovated and expanded, furnished, 3BR, 2 full bath large wrap-around porch, 2 pools, separate swimming available, great day camp. Call 718-353-2334 Bayswater- massive 2 family home in a great area, close to all the shuls, beautiful cabinets & granite counter tops, lots of bedrooms, all tiled bathrooms, hardwood flooring all through the house, fireplace, etc., needs tlc, very motivated seller, asking 449k, call Yitzchok 847-691-6397. House for sale in Oceanside by owner Large Americana split with panoramic views of Middlebay Golf Course All new kitchen and bathrooms 4BR 3.5 baths huge den and sunroom 516-536-0079

Real Estate For Rent 1st floor apt on beach 9th $1300 a month includes heat and water perfect for young couple washer & dryer hook up Walking distance to lirr for more info call or text 347-637-8346

TJH TJH CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS Post your Real Estate, Help Wanted, Services, Misc. ads here every Thurs. Weekly classified ads up to 5 lines and/or 25 words 1 Week………………$20 - $10 2 Weeks……….……$35 - $17.50 4 Weeks…………….$60 - $30

Call or Text 443-929-4003 Or email ads to:

classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com

Include valid credit card info

Deadline Monday 5:00pm

111 Real Estate for Rent/Sale Cedarhurst colonial in excellent condition Three Bedrooms 1 Bath - Den, cellar, fenced backyard close walk to synagogues Call 516-569-4628 or 516-547-8930 (cell)

INWOOD BAIS MEDRASH for rent INWOOD GYM for rent Complete Beis Medrash ideal for Kollel or small Yeshiva. Fully equiped gym. Both 1 1/2 blocks from LIRR. free parking 917-399-5154

Gemachs

Office space available for rent in Lawrence by owner. Shared waiting room with other health related professionals. Utilities covered and internet access available. mymanagement360@yahoo.com Cedarhurst Colonial in Excellent condition 3 bedrooms, 1Bath, den, cellar Fenced backyard, close walk to shuls Rent 2250 Sale 300S Call 516-569-4628 Cell 516-547-8930 3 Bedroom Apt. For Rent Far Rockaway Near Kollel and Shuls In a 3 family house on 3rd floor, also basement ideal for office Sunny apt. with 2 porches Available August Call 516-225-4558 Hewlett Neck Ocean Front Mansion for Rent 9,000 square feet, fully furnished, with TV and WiFi Sleeps 20, kosher kitchen, inside eruv, walk to all shuls Can rent weekly or monthly, Perfect for any Simcha or vacationers Call 631-484-6781 For rent 2 bedroom apartment Far rockaway near BBY Available NOW Kosher Kitchen New appliances Call 516-225-4558

Seeking to donate 2 family house in Little Falls, NY to a non-profit organization. Accepting Offers.718-974-9428

Business Opportunity Online Trainers Wanted Learn to operate a Mini-Office Outlet from home. Free online training, flexible hours, great income. www.SelectFreedom.net Change your health and wealth Partner with young couple to build viable home based business Can earn $100,000 in first 18 months Excellent training Call 347-333-1789 Can you spare it? Donate it. Clear out a closet and help a needy Heimishe family today. Tax deductible receipts available upon request. Call (866) GIVE2LIVE(448-3254)

Job Available Midyear opening at TAG High School for teacher proficient in global and/or European history. Up to five periods a day available. Relevant degree and experience required. Email resume to mshepard@tagschools.org. Res. Hab. Positions Available Work part time with a special needs young adult. Pays $14 an hour No Certification Necessary. Great opportunity to do Chesed and get paid at the same time Call Metropolitan 718-633-3334 ext. 0

Reach Thousands of People! place your ad in

Firm in 5 Town area seeking

motivated individual to handle AR/collections and general office work, must be organized, detailed oriented and professional, excellent salary + benefit package and room for growth, please email resume to jobopening36@gmail.com

Executive Assistant: PT, Exec Assis for Lawrence office, Must have superb organizational & phone skills. Micr.Office experience, ability to sched & acquire appointments with top CEO's. Ability to multi-task a must. Email resume to chayaweinberg@yahoo.com. Leaders in Online Jewish Marketing are hiring Sales Superstars. Do you fit the bill? Send your resume to sales@thejmg.com or call us @ 646-351-1808 x 111 Looking for Shadow/tutor in five towns girls yeshiva high school Please call 347-524-3864

Seeking Job Experienced P-3 Provider, with M.S. in Education and Permanent N.Y. State Teacher Certification- Available to work with students in all grades Mondays through Thursdays- mornings until 11 A.M. and anytime after 5:30 P.M.; and Sundays anytime Please call Tsivia: 516-526-2385

Misc. Lost white gold diamond bracelet/covered watch either at Kennedy Airport or in Boro Park. If found please call 347.578.4165 A piece of jewelry was found on July 19th in Cedarhurst, on the street near LIRR station. If you know who it belongs to, please contact rwilam@gmail.com. We are looking to replace our reserved spot in a 3 year old play group in Far Rockaway. The play group is well established and is a warm, caring and educational environment suitable for boys and girls that turn 3 years old in 2012. The playgroup hours are 9AM1PM Monday –Thursday and 9AM -12PM on Erev Shabbos. Please contact Yael Gladstone @718-471-2751 for more information.

The Yeshiva of Far Rockaway admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other schooladministered programs.

ForSale Sale by by Owner For Owner Huge 2 Huge 2 Family Family House House In In heart heart of of Far Far Rockaway Rockaway

Completely renovated large 4 bedroom apt. Completely renovated Large spacious Oversized 3,158 Over very 3 bedroom apt. Property 4 bedroom apt. Sq. feet Oversized property Lots of children Plus on block Over very spacious Beautiful Full basement 3 bedroom apt. Lots of parking Near shuls and schools Backyard

Lots of Please call 917-929-3241 Lots of Near shuls and children on schools parking block

The Jewish Home

classifieds Contact: classifieds@fivetowns jewishhome.com

For inquiries please call 917‐929‐3241

T h e J e w i s h H o m e n n o v e m b e r 1 5 , 2012

Belle Harbor Area Beach 118 St. Extra large modern 2 room studio apt. Furnished or unfurnished Short or long term Near Boardwalk, Shuls, Yeshiva, shopping, all transportation. Owner 917 543 0497

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Your Money

Life Coach Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS

Allan J. Rolnick CPA

Tax Relief for “Superstorm” Sandy

urricane Sandy roared ashore deduct the fair-market value only if the last week, interrupting our charity actually uses it (such as a church regularly scheduled election using a van to drive its parishioners). If already in progress. And yes, we’ll the charity sells the vehicle, your deducbe addressing election results shortly, tion is limited to the amount the charity especially as we get more guidance on actually realizes on the sale. And if that what to expect for amount is more your taxes. But than $500, you’ll we’re impressed, have to attach a We’re impressed, as always, with certification to how a natural your return that as always, with how disaster brings states the vehicle a natural disaster out the best in was sold in an Americans, and arms-length sale brings out the best we’re pleased and includes the to see both gross proceeds in Americans. Democrats and from that sale. Republicans • D o n a t i o n s joining together you make by text to help those most affected by the message are deductible like any other storm. cash gifts. You can use your phone bill The IRS gives generous tax de- to substantiate your deduction. ductions to help make our own generThe IRS cautions us all to seek out ous charitable gifts go further. So this qualified charities, and warns that boweek we’re writing to help you make gus requests for charities that simply the most of efforts you might make to don’t exist are common after natural disupport storm sasters. The IRS victims—or any also announced other year-end that they would charitable gifts. give businesses • You can and tax prepardeduct up to 50% ers affected by of your adjusted the hurricane an gross income for extra seven days cash gifts you to file payroll and make to so-called excise tax returns “501(c)(3) orthat were due on ganizations,” or October 31. public charities December 31 working on behalf of storm victims. is approaching faster than you’d like, These include the American Red Cross and that means time is running out for and similarly recognizable groups. year-end tax planning. But it’s not too • If you give more than $250 in late to take concrete steps to cut your any single gift, you’ll need a written re- 2012 taxes. What are your year-end ficeipt from the recipient, dated no later nancial goals? Helping the victims of than the filing date of your return. the storm? Saving for your dream retire• Gifts of food, clothing, furniture, ment? Helping finance your children’s electronics, or household items are de- or grandchildren’s education? Odds are ductible at “fair-market value,” such as good that we can help you save taxes the price you would get for them at a while you do it. resale shop. Consider using software, available at any office-supply store, for tracking your gifts and their value. You Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in might be surprised at how much you practice for over 30 years in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be can save! • Gifts of cars, trucks, and boats reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@ are a little trickier. Congress has cracked aol.com. down on inflated car and truck deductions. If you donate a vehicle, you can

Double Trouble

take you to a random kitchen on no special day in a couple’s life; a husband and wife are opening their mail: Wife: Oh, look we got an invitation to Stacey’s wedding. Exciting! Husband: Hey, here’s another invitation…Jo-Jo’s Bar MitzvahWife: When’s Jo-Jo’s? Husband: December 18th, what did the other one say? Wife: December 18th! Husband: You’re kidding, what time? Wife: 4pm—twilight wedding—so beautiful with the sunset and all. Hopefully the Bar Mitzvah is later! Husband: No, it looks like…yup, 4pm—twilight. Wife: Well, they live near each other luckily, maybe we can just “pop” from one to the other. Husband: Okay great idea. Where’s the wedding? Wife: Crest Hollow!!! Husband: Seriously, that’s kind of far out on Long Island. There goes the “pop” from one to another idea! Wife: Okay so we’ll go to the local one first and then “scurry” over to the wedding. Where’d you say the Bar Mitzvah was? Husband: Let me look….it’s at the… New Jersey! Well there goes the “scurry” idea! Wife: New Jersey—why would they do it in New Jersey? Husband: It seems the Bar Mitzvah boys are going to a “sports event” somewhere in New Jersey first. Wife: Well it seems we’ve got our own “sports event” first too, no “pop” or “scurry”—a nice long “hike” from one affair to the other. Is this at all familiar to any of you? For instance, you can go for like three weeks in a row with nothing much scheduled but sure as you have one affair, you’ll have two. There could be some arbitrary Wednesday night, no special date, but if you have one event you can be sure you have a second and sometimes even a third that evening. What is that all about? There must be some “magnetic event pull” hidden in the atmosphere—one event attracts another! And it’s not just events. It happens with “call backs.” Honestly, I can try to reach thirty people about various topics I need to discuss with them. I can wait days or sometimes weeks for anyone

to get back to me. But you can bet your life’s savings (if you want to make a killing) that if one finally calls me back, the other phone will ring within seconds with another call back. Oh, and how about this? Truthfully, weeks, literally you can be waiting for weeks, for a “yes” in this dating world, but mark my words…if one person finally says yes to going out with you—you can be sure another will within minutes or milliseconds of the first. I call this dual action phenomena the SNAFFU effect: “The Simultaneous, Never Avoidable, Frustration Factor Universe,” simply remembered as: “SNAFFU.” Falling into a SNAFFU is not necessarily bad. But it is inconveniencing and often overwhelming simply because you can’t be in two places at the same time! Unless, of course, you clone yourself but (aside from the expense and legality of such a move) imagine the dangers of cloning yourself. Oh, sure, initially the idea works great. Your clone can handle all of your secondary events. But what happens when the clone gains their own popularity. Suddenly they are receiving independent invitations and boom, now the “SNAFFU effect” is doubled. Instead of having two events to cope within a night, you may be confronting four. You see the problem will continuously spiral out of control. One remedy is to decrease responsibilities, friendships, and involvements. However, that’s almost life avoidance! Face it, the friendlier and busier you are the more SNAFFUs you’ll get into. But at least it will diminish the time you spend worrying about other geographic earth phenomena like global warming and changing weather patterns. SNAFFUs will definitely increase in your lifetime because as you build involvements and obligations; they increase in velocity and frequency. The only answer is to continue juggling and prioritizing. Because SNAFFUs are here to stay! Try to redirect your thinking and come at SNAFFUs from a different vantage point. Rather than a: Simultaneous, Never Avoidable, Frustration Factor Universe Think of them as: Simultaneous Net Aggregations of Fabulous Filled Utopias! Have a great week and hey, now you can read that other fabulous article you wanted to read at the exact same time you wanted to read this one!

Susan Schwamm

From Sea to Shining Sea : Connecticut

lthough a really small state, Connecticut has a lot to offer visitors. Located just across the Long Island Sound (if you’re a good swimmer, I guess you can just do the doggy paddle across), the Nutmeg State is ideal for some quick, out-of-state day trips. Things You Won’t Want To Miss Litchfield The Litchfield region is ideal for those looking for a peaceful, relaxing respite from city life. The area is perfect for visiting all year-round. Hiking, bicycling, trout fishing and just strolling along the antique shops in Litchfield Hills are wonderful ways to enjoy the beauty of small-town New England life. During the summer, the children will scream in delight on the legendary Boulder Dash wooden roller coaster and will enjoy the beloved Lake Compounce Theme Park in Bristol. Myriad museums dot the region as well, showcasing contemporary and 19th and 20th century art, carousels, and our nation’s railways.

Mystic I’ve spent many Chol Hamoed trips in Mystic, Connecticut. At the Seaport, families can enjoy 19th century ship-building along with exhibits that focus on the village and the sea at that period of time. Children will love to spend some time at the Mystic Aquarium. Although Mystic is located at the “quiet side” of the state, there are two major casinos in the vicinity. Hartford Hartford is the state capital of the Constitution State and offers wonderful, historic buildings to explore. Take time to visit the Old State House, the Wadsworth Atheneum with its sculpture garden, and the home of Mark Twain. The writer wrote some of his best-loved classics here and the home is filled with curious features. Just a short ride away, make sure to visit the Gillette Castle in East Haddam, the Old New-Gate Prison in East Granby, and the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks. As you lei-

surely drive the through the valley keep your camera handy for some picturesque views. New Haven How can we talk about Connecticut without mentioning one of its famous institutions: Yale University. Founded in 1701, the school is the third-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. But don’t just go here for your degree. Visitors here can get a wonderful education just by passing through. The Yale University Art Gallery showcases works by Van Gogh, Manet and Picasso. The Yale Center for British Art offers the largest collection of its kind in the country. When visiting in the summer, take some time to enjoy the saltwater beach at Hammonasset Beach State Park. Your family will love the cruise offered around the Thimble Islands off of Branford. And for those of you who love to shop, check out Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets on your way back home.

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