Philadelphia Jewish Link - October 10, 2019 by Jewish Link Marketing Solutions

CHAG SAMEACH!

Philadelphia

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CANDLE LIGHTING October 11 12 Tishrei 5780 Parshat Ha’azinu Candle Lighting: 6:10 pm

Issue #3 Published Biweekly October 10, 2019 11 Tishrei, 5780

Linking Greater Philadelphia and South Jersey

A New Home for The Philly KYLS and KYMS Friendship Circle A Place Where We All Belong

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hat began as a mere concept in the Spring of 2014 became a reality this September, as Kohelet Yeshiva Lab and Middle Schools moved into their new state-ofthe-art building on the Kohelet Yeshiva campus in Merion Station.

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“What do we know about how children learn?” That question was the driving force behind the birth of the Yeshiva Lab School, which was a project of the Kohelet Foundation, and which started with a Kindergarten in the Fall of 2015 in

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Heads of Lower Merion Area Yeshiva Day Schools Issue a Collaborative Statement Regarding Alcohol

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Rabbi Zev and Chani Baram, Co-Founders of the Philly Friendship Circle, flanking staff members at the Philly Friendship Walk and Family Fun Fair at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy on Sunday, October 6. (credit: Jay Gorodetzer Photography) By Gwen Horowitz

he Philly Friendship Circle was founded by Rabbi Zev and Chani Baram in 2003. The goal was to serve children with special needs

and their families and foster inclusive friendships and community engagements. Today, there are more than 80 Friendship Circles worldwide.

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W GERMAN JEWS BLAST WZO DECISION TO AWARD MERKEL HERZL PRIZE

(JNS and Israel Hayom) Members of Germany’s Jewish community are speaking out against the World Jewish Congress’s decision to honor German Chancellor Angela Merkel with its prestigious Herzl Award. Every year, the organizations bestows the award upon figures who act to promote Zionist visionary Theodor Herzl’s “ideas for the creation of a safer and more tolerant world for Jews.” Along with Merkel, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley has also been selected for the award, which the two women are set to receive in separate ceremonies. However, the announcement of WZO’s plan to honor Merkel has been met with fierce criticism by members of Germany’s Jewish community, who note the change in Merkel’s stance towards Israel in recent years, her support for the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, and the increasing sense among the country’s Jews that Berlin is not doing an adequate job of contending with the growing threat to Jews as a result of the anti-Semitic views of Arab and Muslim migrants to the country.

RLD NEWSBRIEFS

IRAN: ‘WE WILL USE EVERY POSSIBLE WAY TO EXPORT OUR OIL’

(JNS) Iran will not submit to U.S. pressure and will “use every possible way” to export its oil, Iranian Energy Minister Bijan Namdar Zangeneh said, as reported by Reuters. “We will use every possible way to export our oil and we will not succumb to America’s pressure because exporting oil is Iran’s legitimate right,” Zangeneh said in a statement on the website of the Iranian Petroleum Ministry, SHANA. Iran’s crude exports have dropped more than 80 percent since the United States reimposed sanctions last November, according to the report. The increasing sanctions on Iran have scared away foreign investors and banks. Iran has the world’s secondlargest natural gas reserves.

TWO ROCKETS FIRED FROM GAZA FALL INSIDE THE COASTAL ENCLAVE

(JNS) Two rockets fired from the Gaza Strip failed to cross into Israel, landing within the Hamas-controlled enclave. The launches triggered alert sirens in southern Israel, forcing Israelis to run for cover. The attack came hours

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Cherry Hill:

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Chabad Lubavitch of Camden County Cherry Grill Congregation Sons of Israel Politz Day School of Cherry Hill The Bagel Spot Young Israel of Cherry Hill

Acme in Narberth Northeast Philadelphia: Caskey Torah Academy Chabad of the Main Line Beit Harambam Congregation Congregation Beth Hamedrosh Congregation Ahavas Torah Kohelet Yeshiva Congregation Beth Solomon Lower Merion Synagogue Congregation B'nai Israel Ohev Zedek New York Bagel Espresso Café Shalom Pizza House of Kosher Star of David The Mesivta High School of Greater Philadelphia Young Israel of the Main Line Elkins Park: Zagafen Young Israel of Elkins Park

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after a Palestinian was killed and more than 54 were injured by Israel Defense Forces’ fire during protests along the border, i24 reported. The source of the figures was the Gaza Health Ministry, according to the report. Around 5,800 protesters and rioters gathered along the security barrier on Friday, in a repeat of a confrontation that has continued at the border for months. Palestinians regularly fire rockets and improvised explosive devices at the IDF during these riots. The riots are part of Hamas’s “Great March of Return” movement that seeks to force a “right of return” of Palestinians to Israel.

PA TO RESUME TAKING TAX REVENUES COLLECTED FOR IT BY ISRAEL

(JNS) The Palestinian Authority announced that it would once again accept tax revenues collected on its behalf by Israel, after having rejected the funds for months. According to a report by Reuters, a spokeswoman for Israel’s Finance Ministry said about $430 million would be transferred to the P.A., after understandings were reached between P.A. Civil Affairs Minister Hussein al-Sheikh and Israeli Finance Minister Moshe Kahlon. In February, Israel said it would begin to deduct from the tax revenues it collects for the P.A. the amount the P.A. pays in monthly stipends to terrorists incarcerated in Israeli prisons, as well as to released terrorists and the families of “martyrs.” When Israel went through with the deductions, the P.A. refused to accept any of the tax funds, with P.A. leader Mahmoud Abbas insisting that the full tax payments belonged to the P.A. by right according to interim agreements. Israel argued that the “pay for slay” plan encouraged terrorism against Jews. Last year, the United States drastically cut aid to the P.A., citing its disapproval of monthly salaries to paid to terrorists. Tax transfers are said by the P.A. Finance Ministry to comprise approximately half of the P.A. budget.

TEENS HELP EXCAVATE BRONZE AGE ‘MEGALOPOLIS’ IN NORTHERN ISRAEL

(JNS and Israel Hayom) A 5,000-year-old metropolis, the largest uncovered in Israel to date, has been excavated near Ein Iron, northeast of Hadera.

TABLE OF CONTENTS World Newsbriefs.............................................. 4 Publisher’s Perspective.................................. 8 Editor’s Letter....................................................... 8 Op-Ed........................................................................ 9 Community News.....................................10-25 Cherry Blossoms by Rabbi Ephraim Epstein................25 Divrei Torah for Sukkot......................... 26-29 Features................................................................ 30 Health & Wellness....................................31-32 Eating Disorders: What Causes Them? by Frani Pollack......................32 Food & Wine...............................................33-35 House to Home by House of Kosher and Esther Chana Schechter.................................. 33 Stock Market by Jonathan Chodosh........................ 34 Recipes From The Rebbetzin by Rebbetzin Deborah Epstein........... 35 Fun Corner.......................................................... 36 Schools...........................................................37-39 Sports...............................................................40-41 Home & Living...........................................42-43 Want to Stage Your Home for a Quick Sale? By Anne Goldberg....42 The city, which dates back to the Early Bronze Age (the end of the fourth century BCE), was surrounded by walls and included residential and public areas, streets and alleyways. It had an area of 161 acres and was home to an estimated 6,000 residents. The Bronze Age metropolis was constructed on the remains of an even earlier city that dates back 7,000 years to the Chalcolithic Period. Two natural springs located nearby apparently served as the impetus to build communities on the site. Some 5,000 teens and volunteers took part in the excavation under the auspices of an Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) project designed to instill an emotional connection to Israel’s ancient heritage and a sense of belonging in the younger generations, as well as awareness of the importance of archaeological preservation. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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THE PUBLISHER’S PERSPECTIVE

only had to buy a lulav and etrog once in my life. It was in 1991, when I was learning in yeshiva in Israel for the year following my graduation from high school. Before Sukkot, I traveled to Yerushalayim with a bunch of my friends in search of the perfect set of Arba Minim. Having never purchased them on my own prior to that experience, I relied on the advice of my friends and the various merchants that we visited, and I ultimately chose a set that seemed to be satisfactory. You may be asking; how could it be that a grown man has gone through life having purchased a lulav and etrog on just one occasion, 28 years ago? Don’t we celebrate Sukkot each and every year? Does he not annually fulfill one of the primary mitzvot associated with this special holiday? The answer is that I have indeed been the proud owner of a set of Arba Minim from as far back as I can remember. In fact, not only do I own a set of Arba Minim each year, but they are always first-

rate. The lulav is tall and majestic, the etrog is consistently exceptional, and the hadassim and aravot are unfailingly verdant. And that is all because my father would have it no other way. For my father, buying the Arba Minim was one of the highlights of his year. I remember going with him as a young child to pick them out, and I recall the amount of time and care that he took to inspect each one in his quest for the perfect set. When I got older and was no longer living in my parents’ house, my father would take my mother with him and engage in the same methodical and meticulous process on an annual basis. For many years, my parents came to our house for the first days of Sukkot. Not only did my father bring for me a top quality lulav and etrog; he also brought one for each of my children. It was a mitzvah that he took extremely seriously, and I would venture to say that the time he spent sitting with my children while assembling each set of the Arba Minim and teaching them about every facet of the mitzvah was perhaps the highlight of his chag. This year is going to be different. It

EDITOR’S LETTER

love baseball. Since around the age of 10, I have been an avid fan of the game. I enjoy everything about the sport, from the sound of the crack of the bat on the ball to the thrill of retrieving a foul ball at a game. I enjoy watching televised games and following the standings of my team throughout the season. Over the years my family and I have visited many stadiums in different cities and have enjoyed soaking in the unique aura of each one. As much as I

love the sport, however, what I appreciate the most is that it has given me a special connection to my sons. We share the excitement, especially this time of year, rooting for our team as we spend our evenings bonding over playoff matchups. As the Editor of this paper, I am in the unique position of having read almost every word of this publication before anyone else. Being that this column shares a page with the Publisher’s Perspective, it seemed frivolous for me to be writing about a sport when Nachi discusses losing his father, which is obviously so personal and heartfelt. I was tempted to

Send in your letter to the editor to editor@PhillyJewishLink.com and it may be featured in our next issue! 8

will be the first Sukkot that I am going to spend without my father. There have been many moments when I have felt that searing pain and intense sense of loss since he passed away five months ago. Those deep feelings of grief manifest themselves in different ways and at different times. They may be linked to a particular event or sometimes to a fleeting thought. Either way, the ache is real, and it is something that I am learning to live with. However, as we prepare for Sukkot, I am dreading the void that I will inevitably feel. We will miss having my father with us in the Sukkah and I will miss having him sit next to me in shul. Yet, I think that I will miss his presence most when I stand in shul and hold the Arba Minim aloft during Hallel and the Hakafot. And that is because for the first time in a very long time, my father will not be bringing me a lulav and etrog. As I look around my Sukkah this year and see my beautiful family all around me, I will thank Hashem for all that I have, and I will remember my beloved father, who will be deeply missed. Nachi Troodler, Publisher

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go in another direction with this week’s column until I reflected on it a little more. The truth is though, that my love of the game stems directly from my father. He is an extremely dedicated baseball fan. To the extent that even though he does not have cable television, and is therefore unable to watch most games, he listens to each one of the 162 games (except those on Shabbos and Yom Tov) on a radio. Every. Single. Night. Oftentimes, he will call me at the end of a game, and we will do a quick debrief of the highlights. It is not unusual when he is at a simcha, and therefore not able to follow the game, that he will call and ask for an update. Sharing a passion for baseball with my father and my sons gives us a multi-generational commonality that is a true gift. When reading Rabbi Budow’s article in this edition about the possibility of starting a Yeshiva League in this region for our day school children, I sensed we shared similar views on the importance of sports in our lives as a healthy outlet for camaraderie and recreational extra-curricular activities. I hope his idea comes to fruition. But, for now, as I put this edition of the Jewish Link to bed, I am going to go watch Game 3 of the American League Division Series with my boys- and I can’t wait. A g’mar chasima tova to all, and hoping that each of you has found something to enjoy with your family that is just simply fun. Go Yankees!!! Lisa Stein, Editor

Founder/Publisher Nachman Aaron Troodler Editor Lisa Stein Associate Editor Gwen Horowitz Contributing Editor Meryl Troodler Layout & Design Adam Negnewitzky Jewish Link Marketing Solutions Bookkeeper Gila Negnewitzky Consultants Moshe Kinderlehrer Jewish Link Media Group Contributors Carly Chodosh Jonathan Chodosh Dovid Halpern David Magerman Sam Maron Ari Nestlebaum Dr. Frani Pollack Yaeli Sokolic PJL Media Group, LLC P.O. Box 956 Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 www.PhillyJewishLink.com Phone: 484-424-5200 Email: publisher@PhillyJewishLink.com Advertising: ads@PhillyJewishLink.com To submit news, events and photos: news@PhillyJewishLink.com The Philadelphia Jewish Link welcomes letters to the editor, which can be emailed to editor@PhillyJewishLink.com. Letters may be edited for length, clarity and appropriateness. We do not welcome personal attacks or disrespectful language and replies to letters through our website comment feed will not be posted online. We reserve the right to not print any letter. The Philadelphia Jewish Link, an independent publication, promotes Judaism and Zionism, and vigorous debate on these topics. The opinions reflected in articles from our contributors do not necessarily reflect PJL’s positions. We reserve the right to accept or refuse submissions and edit for content and length. We also reserve the right to refuse advertising that in our opinion does not reflect the standards of the newspaper. We are not responsible for the kashrus of any product advertised in the Philadelphia Jewish Link. The PJL does not endorse any medical or nutritional claims by writers in our paper. The Philadelphia Jewish Link asks our advertisers to use pictures of women and men in their advertisements when women and men are mentioned.

The Jewish Link extends birkat tanchumim to Rabbi Jonathan Bienenfeld of the Young Israel of Cherry Hill on the passing of his beloved father, Jeffrey Bienenfeld. May the Almighty comfort you among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

OP-ED Whatever Happened to the Palestinian ‘Diplomatic Tsunami’? Anti-Zionists may still be able to intimidate some people, like pop stars who visit Israel, but in the real world and even at the United Nations, their cause is an afterthought. By Jonathan S. Tobin

t was only eight years ago that supporters of Israel were trembling at the possibility that support for the Jewish state would soon be washed away by a “diplomatic tsunami” that would be unleashed by the Palestinians at the United Nations. In the spring of 2011, President Barack Obama demanded that Israel negotiate the creation of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 armistice lines. The Palestinian Authority chose not to embrace Obama’s initiative, but instead embarked on a campaign to get the United Nations to recognize their statehood without first requiring them to make peace with Israel. Figures such as then Defense Minister Ehud Barak predicted that such a “tsunami” meant “Israel’s delegitimization was in sight.” For Barak and others who still believed in the Oslo peace process even after its collapse a decade earlier in the violence of the Second Intifada, the prospect of such total international isolation meant that Israel had no choice but to withdraw from the West Bank and part of Jerusalem, regardless of the consequences. Eight years later, no one speaks of a Palestinian tsunami at the United Nations—or anywhere else, for that matter. Instead, the only places where efforts to delegitimize Israel seem to be succeeding is on the social-media pages of pop stars. While Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas’s annual sojourn to the United Nations last month was greeted with yawns, the only recent success that haters of Israel can claim was the bullying this week of singer Demi Lovato. Lovato is a former Disney teen star who has had some subsequent success as a singer and actress after dealing with substance-abuse problems. Like most of those who work in the entertainment industry, she is eager to identify with causes such as gay rights and gun control. But she experienced a nasty backlash when she posted pictures on her Instagram account of a trip to Israel that she had initially described as “absolutely magical.” October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Subscribe to The JNS Daily Syndicate by email and never miss our top stories On a trip that was reportedly paid for by an unnamed pro-Israel nonprofit group, Lovato gushed on Instagram about her feelings about visiting Yad Vashem and the Western Wall, as well as her experience of being baptized in the Jordan River. But after BDS supporters—advocating their belief that the Jewish state be eliminated—criticized her for the visit, Lovato backed down right away. She issued an apology for thinking that traveling to the Holy Land could be a “spiritual experience,” rather than a political one that supposedly signified support for hurting Palestinians. When she became the object of further scorn for those absurd remarks, the apparently deeply confused singer then deleted her apology. Perhaps the BDS movement will count this as something of a victory. But looking back to an August concert in Israel by Jennifer Lopez (a far bigger star than Lovato), who performed to a crowd of 60,000 without worrying about what a few radicals who post comments on social media might say, it’s hard to count even the leftist-dominated precincts of pop culture as a place where the Palestinians are really succeeding. At the United Nations, where oncehardened ex-generals like Barak quaked about the prospect of the world uniting to force Israel to accept a Palestinian state, the situation for the Jewish state’s foes is particularly dismal. It’s true that many U.N. agencies, like its Human Rights Council, are still cesspools of anti-Semitism and hypocrisy, focusing almost exclusively on bogus attacks on Israel while ignoring real human-rights catastrophes in countries around the world. But, as is the case elsewhere, the diplomatic isolation that Barak and so many others feared never happened. Indeed, as Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon recently wrote in JNS, the world body is no longer the “home court” for those who oppose Israel. The majority of member states joined the United States and Israel in condemning Hamas

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COMMUNITY NEWS A collaboration of local Jewish day schools has issued a joint statement regarding the need for parents to be vigilant vis-à-vis alcoholic consumption by their children on Simchat Torah and throughout the remainder of the year. ‫בס״ד‬ October 10, 2019

‫י”א תשרי תש”פ‬ Dear Parents, As we head into the joyous period of Sukkos and Simchas Torah, we, the Heads of the Lower Merion Area Yeshiva Day Schools, wanted to ask for your help in ensuring the health and safety of our community’s children. According to the Center for Disease Control, teens who drink alcohol are more likely to experience problems in school, problems with their social lives, legal problems, psychological problems and physical problems such as injury, illness, or even, r”ltz, death. Research has also clearly shown that the earlier a child starts drinking, smoking, or using any addictive substance, the more likely he or she is to develop dependency and / or addiction later in life.

Diplomatic Tsunami CONTINUED FROM P. 9 terrorism in the past year. In a variety of steps, both large and small, Israel’s presence there has become normalized. At the same time, the Palestinians have become more of an afterthought. It’s probably better for Abbas that even the Palestinians’ usual cheerleaders on the left paid no attention to his recent address at the U.N. General Assembly, where he

While we would like to think we are immune to such problems in our community, we all know that we are not. We also know that for many of our children their first exposure to the allure of drinking comes at some of our most sacred and treasured times: a Friday night tisch or a Shabbos kiddush, a wedding or a l’chaim, Purim, or Simchas Torah. Last year, Amudim, an organization dedicated to addressing abuse in the Orthodox community, created this video on the all-too-real dangers of drinking in our community which they entitled “The Kiddush Club.” If you have not yet done so, we urge you to please watch it. As a result of these dangers and out of an unabiding concern for the welfare of all of our community’s children, we urge our parent body to abide by the following guidelines: 1. Other than the requisite amount of wine for kiddush, children and teens should never be allowed to drink an alcoholic beverage, even under adult

supervision. 2. Alcoholic beverages in one’s home should be stored in a locked cabinet. 3. Alcoholic beverages at communal events and in communal institutions must be monitored by adults at all times. 4. Groups of teens should never be allowed to gather in a home for extended periods of time when parents are not present or when parents are sleeping. It is a parent’s responsibility to monitor the activities of all of the children in all areas inside and outside their home to ensure their safety and security. 5. Parents who see, hear, or know of children who are using illegal substances including alcohol, vapes, and drugs, must say something to the child’s parent or to their school. Reports to a school will be kept confidential and will be used to get the child the help he or she needs.

spoke of his devotion to democracy and his plans for having another election. Abbas is so devoted to democracy that he is currently serving in the 15th year of the four-year term as president of the P.A., to which he was elected in 2005. No one takes his talk of finally holding another vote seriously since there is no way he would risk being defeated by his more radical Islamist rivals in Hamas who currently rule Gaza.

The Arab and Muslim worlds may still be hotbeds of anti-Semitism and have successfully exported their Jewhatred to the West in the form of the BDS movement. However, the Arab states have effectively dropped the Palestinian cause as a priority and instead are increasingly looking to Israel as an ally against Iran. Though they still pay some lip service to the Palestinian cause, the governments of Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Egypt have little interest in creating another failed and unstable Arab state for the Palestinians. To note these facts is not to deny that the ongoing conflict with the Palestinians is not going away and remains a serious problem. But as long as both the P.A. and Hamas are still stuck in the mindset of their centurylong war on Zionism, peace will have to wait until the Palestinians are ready to

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Perhaps most importantly, we urge the adults of our community to model for our children over the upcoming yamim tovim of Sukkos and Simchas Torah the many other ways in which we can achieve true simchas ha-chaim and simchas ha-Torah. With your commitment to these guidelines, we are confident that the upcoming Yom Tov and all the days that follow, will indeed be yimei simcha for our entire community. Sincerely Yours, Rabbi Isaac Entin, Caskey Torah Academy Rabbi Mendy Levin, Cheder Chabad of Philadelphia Rabbi Baruch Lichtenstein, Kosloff Torah Academy Rabbi Gil Perl, Kohelet Yeshiva Rabbi Avraham Steinberg, Mesivta of Greater Philadelphia

accept the legitimacy of a Jewish state. The fact that the “tsunami” that so many Jews feared has fizzled into the BDS flop that can only intimidate someone like Lovato demonstrates that the conventional wisdom peddled by Israel’s noisy critics shouldn’t be taken seriously. Those who listen to the counsels of despair in 2011 have turned out to be as confused as a second-tier pop star. Jonathan S. Tobin is editor in chief of JNS—Jewish News Syndicate. Follow him on Twitter at: @jonathans_tobin. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

NCSY of Greater Philadelphia’s Chapter Board gathered at the home of their Director, Rabbi Yitz and Frimi Levi, for a special “Chapter Board Shabbos” on Shabbos Shuva.

NCSY of Greater Philadelphia held its first NCSY GO Latte and Learning program of the new school year.

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Approximately 75 children participated in the Lower Merion Synagogue Youth Department’s Sukkah Decorating event on Sunday morning, October 6.

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

COMMUNITY NEWS

Center City Rabbi Among Honorees at Greater Philadelphia ZOA Annual Gala (Courtesy of ZOA)

he Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA) honored four individuals at its annual Gala on Tuesday, September 24, at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue. The organization presented its Amud Ha’Kehillah (Pillar of the Community Award) to businesswoman Malka Kantor-Rapkin, who was born in Mandate Palestine; its Lee Bender Defender of Israel Award to Williamsport, PA attorney Cliff Rieders; its Guardian of Israel Award to Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch of Mekor Habracha/Center City Synagogue; and its new Education Beacon Award to DePaul University Professor Dr. Jason D. Hill. Hill also served as the keynote speaker for the Gala. The Lee Bender Defender of Israel Award is newly named in tribute to chapter coPresident Lee Bender, who passed away two weeks before the Gala. ZOA National President Morton Klein made his annual Philadelphia address during the Gala, and communal leader and ZOA Board member Gary Erlbaum served as Master of Ceremonies. The Greater Philadelphia ZOA Gala is an annual celebration of Israel and America, Patriotism and Zionism. ZOA is a non-partisan organization. Malka Kantor-Rapkin was born in Tel Aviv prior to Israeli independence. She and her husband-to-be came to Philadelphia in 1964 to attend Gratz College. After graduating, she taught Hebrew and music in U.S. Jewish day schools locally, as well as in other parts of the country. She later had a successful career in financial services, co-founding her own planning and wealth management firm. Kantor-Rapkin has dedicated her time, talent and resources to support Jewish or-

ZOA National President Morton A. Klein delivers his annual Philadelphia address during the Gala. (Credit: Richard Chaitt)

Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch (center), religious leader of Mekor Habracha/Center City Synagogue, received the Guardian of Israel Award. Flanking him are Greater Philadelphia ZOA Executive Director Steve Feldman (left) and Gala Chairman Howard Katzoff. (Credit: Richard Chaitt) ganizations and causes with connections to Israel. Cliff Rieders is a partner in the law firm of Rieders, Travis, Humphrey, Waters & Dohrmann in Williamsport. He is in the Philadelphia area for most Shabbatots. Rieders serves on ZOA’s National Board and assisted in creating ZOA’s Center for Law and Justice. He has been instrumental in fighting against the BDS movement, having drafted a resolution that passed the Pennsylvania House and Senate unanimously. He has served as President of Congregation Ohev Sholom in Williamsport. Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch is the spiritual leader and founding rabbi of Mekor Habracha/ Center City Synagogue. Since its establishment, he has presided over the synagogue’s rapid growth and made significant contributions to the flourishing Center City Jewish community. Under his leadership, Mekor has attracted a large number of young adults.

Rabbi Hirsch shares his devotion to Israel with his congregation by including special blessings for Israel and the IDF in Mekor’s Shabbat and holiday services, celebrating numerous congregants who have made aliyah, and expressing a fervent voice for Israel in his sermons.

Dr. Jason D. Hill is professor of philosophy at DePaul University and has authored four books — the most recent being We Have Overcome: An Immigrant’s Letter to the American People. Hill’s article, “The Moral Case For Israel Annexing The West Bank- And Beyond” struck a nerve in academia. DePaul students demanded he apologize and called for Hill to be censured. Fellow faculty members passed a resolution condemning him. Hill is an unapologetic supporter of Israel. Hill is President and CEO of the Institute for Immigrant Assimilation. His columns have been widely published, and he is a frequent TV commentator.

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Powering the Future: Perelman Jewish Day School Expands Innovative Hebrew-Immersive Preschool (Courtesy of Perelman Jewish Day School)

erelman Jewish Day School is expanding its highly successful preschool, the Philadelphia area’s only Hebrew-immersive junior kindergarten. Kicking off its third year, Perelman’s Ganon program has doubled in enrollment, growing from 11 to 21 children and adding a beautiful, state-of-the-art classroom and playground specially designed for their students. The preschool is located on Perelman’s Wynnewood-based Stern Center campus. Using a constructivist approach to early childhood education, the colorful, bustling preschool fosters learning through exploration and experimentation in a caring envi-

ronment created just for children ages four and five. Each child learns independence and resilience at his or her individual pace, and critical thinking skills are cultivated through exposure to expressive, communicative and cognitive experiences. The curriculum is taught in Hebrew, encouraging students to build dual-language skills with confidence. Junior kindergarten teachers partner with Perelman’s elementary school faculty to bring all grades together throughout the year, from reading buddies to special holiday celebrations. “We gratefully acknowledge the generosity of a well-respected national foundation to assist us in the expansion our im-

Credit: Perelman Jewish Day School

mersive Hebrew preschool program,” says Judy Groner, Perelman’s Head of School. “This grant, along with the inspirational gifts of other donors, enables us to bring Jewish children and their families closer to the richness and beauty of Jewish day school education. Perelman continues to move forward in bold and exciting ways.” Founded in 1956, Raymond and Ruth Perelman Jewish Day School serves over 350 students in two centers located on campuses in Wynnewood and Melrose Park, PA. The school is accredited by the Pennsylvania Association of Independent Schools (PAIS) and is a member of the Association of Delaware Valley Independent Schools (ADVIS) and Prizmah: Center for Jewish Day Schools.

during the storm. On Sunday morning, Cherry Hill residents woke up to a scene that resembled a war zone. Of course, it was also Erev Rosh Hashanah, and without electricity, many people had no way to prepare for Yom Tov. The local utility company kept pushing off the expected time for repair, making it closer and closer to Yom Tov. The local WhatsApp groups were filled with panicked messages about how to get food cooked on time for Yom Tov and directions on how to safely clear the debris so that people would be able to walk to shul. Young Israel of Cherry Hill was informed just a few hours before Rosh Hashanah that their building was not safe for use over Yom Tov. They had to quickly find a new location, receiving offers from other shuls and Yeshivas in the neighborhood, and were able to get a group of people together to set up a makeshift ‘shul’ in the FTI Yeshiva cafeteria. Despite the pre-Yom Tov turmoil, the Cherry Hill Jewish community came together and exhibited a degree of achdut and chesed that was remarkable. Community members who were fortunate to have electricity opened their kitchens and ovens to those who were still without power. Several families finished cooking their briskets in

other people’s homes, and one family made numerous trays of brownies for all those who certainly would not have time to bake before the chag. Halfwashed loads of laundry were completed in friend’s washing machines. Generators were shared by neighbors. People called and texted those in need to extend last minute invitations for Yom Tov meals. The overwhelming feeling of achdut was an uplifting way to begin Rosh Hashanah and an inspirational reminder about why people love living in this special community. By 3:00 p.m. on Erev Yom Tov, most residents had their power restored, but the damage was still very visible on the streets. Going into Rosh Hashanah, the few families still without power felt the love of their neighbors and the warm embrace of a caring community.

Wild Weather Hits Cherry Hill Before Rosh Hashanah CONTINUED FROM P.1 By Yaeli Sokolic

n Motzei Shabbat, September 28, the West Side community of Cherry Hill got an unexpected reminder of Who is in charge, as Erev Rosh Hashanah approached. At approximately 10:30 p.m., a severe lightning storm hit, bringing with it torrential rains and strong wind gusts. The storm escalated very quickly. Local residents heard loud bangs, which they later found out were trees falling, as well as small explosions due to blown transformers. Within minutes, thousands of households were without electricity, and some homes had trees fall through their roofs. Streets were blocked by huge fallen trees, cars were crushed, and driveways were obstructed by live wires. The National Weather Service out of Mount Holly reported that the devas-

tating storm which hit Cherry Hill was a “downburst,” which is when strong winds descend vertically through a storm, hit the ground and “fan out,” often gaining speed along the way. Downburst wind speeds can reach up to 100 mph, which is as strong as a tornado, and from a distance, can even appear to be a tornado. The damage from the storm was extensive. Almost 1,700 PSE&G customers in Camden County were without power on Sunday. Road closures were widespread due to downed trees and broken utility poles. Emergency services personnel responded to over 120 incidents

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COMMUNITY NEWS A New Home for KYLS and KYMS CONTINUED FROM P.1 a storefront on Montgomery Avenue in Narberth. That fundamental question was ultimately the mainspring for the building that houses Kohelet Yeshiva Lab School (KYLS) and Kohelet Yeshiva Middle School (KYMS) today. Kohelet Yeshiva Head of School Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl and Kohelet Yeshiva Lab and Middle School Principal Mrs. Becky Troodler, as well as Holly Cohen of the Kohelet Foundation, collaborated to engineer an educational pedagogy and academic curriculum that centered on how children learn. A decision was made in the Summer of 2016 to merge Yeshiva Lab School with Kohelet Yeshiva High School and to open a Middle School division for the Fall of 2017. “In education we almost always find ourselves trying to retrofit and upgrade pre-existing spaces to fit current approaches to teaching and learning,” said Rabbi Perl. “It was therefore a rare and incredibly special opportunity for us to be able to design an entire K-8 building around best practice in education, rather than the other way around.” They contracted with the architectural firm Archer & Buchanan Architecture and worked diligently with a team of consultants to work on designing the building to conform with their learning model and educational philosophy. For example, there was a concerted effort to minimize dead spaces in hallways, maximize learning spaces, and create numerous open spaces. After the necessary municipal approvals were granted following a lengthy zoning process, the contractors, Kasco Construction Co., got to work constructing the new building. “Once the building began to take shape, we asked ourselves, we have all of these beautifully designed spaces, now how do we fill them with furniture that really speaks to our program?” said Kohelet Yeshiva Executive Director Stuart Gasner. Kohelet partnered with the Whalen Berez Group, which works with schools to fill their buildings with furniture. As part of that process, they met with the Kohelet administrative team and several teachers to hear about their vision and to help determine the best type of furniture that fit their educational program. In addition, a number of lay leaders and the Kohelet Yeshiva and Kohelet Foundation leadership collaborated on the overall design and color schemes so that when people would come into the building it would not only be inviting, friendly and aesthetically pleasing, but practical as well. “Our goal in designing the building October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

was to look at each and every space with fresh eyes and ask not ‘how does this usually look in a school?’ but ‘how ought this to look if it is to maximize student learning?’” said Rabbi Perl. The KYLS/KYMS building has three levels, each of which is meant to feel developmentally suitable for the students who occupy the respective spaces. The bottom floor, which is for K-1, has a large “L” shaped classroom that wraps around an open rectangular space intended for more active learning and play. It also includes a multi-purpose room, a built-in stage for dramatic play, monkey bars, and an amphitheater which is used as an outdoor learning space. The main floor contains “L” shaped classrooms for grades 2-3 and 4-5, which abut a Commons that is shared by both classrooms. The Commons is furnished with both “hard” and “soft” seating to facilitate group and individual student work. All of the furniture is movable, to allow the space to transform into a gathering space for all of the students in both classrooms, when appropriate. “Wherever you go, there is learning happening everywhere,” Gasner noted. Every classroom on the bottom and main floor has a kitchenette containing a sink, refrigerator, oven and range, which is used for baking Challah every Friday and food science. Furthermore, each floor in the building has direct access to the outdoors, as well as a glass-enclosed teacher headquarters and several small

group instruction learning spaces. The main floor also houses the administrative space, security guard area, office space, a nurse’s office, and a mother’s lounge, which is a dignified space for parents and teachers who may be nursing young children. The middle school, which occupies the third floor, is divided by learning discipline, as opposed to grade or age. The centerpiece of the floor is a beautiful Beit Midrash that serves not only as a place for tefillah but is also home to all Judaic Studies learning in the middle school. Gasner, who referred to the Beit Midrash as “one of the crown jewels of our building,” highlighted the gorgeous stained-glass windows, as well as the incredible handiwork of Kohelet Yeshiva art teacher Daniel Ostrov, who designed and fabricated the mechitza, bimah, Aron Kodesh and Ner Tamid. The Beit Midrash is flanked on one side by the Humanities Room, which has a mix of soft and hard seating, with individual and collaborative workspaces. The STEAM Lab (science, technology, engineering, art and math) is on the other side, and contains a variety of learning tools, such as 3-D printers, a growing tower for hydroponic agriculture, a kiln, pottery wheels, and easels. “Watching children learn in a space that was designed to maximize their comfort and learning experience in school has been extraordinary,” said Mrs. Becky Troodler. “Most importantly, the warmth

that the space exudes makes it extremely welcoming and it truly feels like a home away from home for our students and teachers.” “We’re so gratified to see the way the community has embraced Kohelet Yeshiva as a K-12 educational institution,” said Kohelet Foundation Executive Director Holly Cohen. “The building is just a small part of bringing what was once an idea to reality. The Kohelet Foundation is proud to be a part of this growth.” While there is a new playground on the Kohelet Yeshiva campus, the equipment in it, and the process that brought it about, is rather unconventional. A group of parents, occupational therapists, physical therapists, teachers and administrators met with the playground company to discuss what they would like to accomplish with the playground and what they would want to see in it. They collectively decided that the equipment should be challenging, safe, and fun, but the playground should be a place where kindergarteners through eighth graders would want to use the equipment. Kohelet held a “community build,” through which seventy parent volunteers built the playground under the supervision and guidance of the playground company. There is also a “Grow Torah garden.” Kohelet partnered with Grow Torah, which is an organization that builds educational Torah garden programs for Jewish schools and communal organizations and which connects chagim and the parshiot to agriculture. Furthermore, there are enhanced security measures that were put in place, including an additional armed guard, rolling gates for people to get in, numerous cameras, fencing surrounding the campus, and pedestrian electric gates. “We are profoundly grateful to the Kohelet Foundation for their vision and unparalleled support for this project from creation to completion,” said Rabbi Perl.

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COMMUNITY NEWS The Philly Friendship Circle CONTINUED FROM P.1 Rabbi Zev, who is originally from Sheffield, England, discovered a natural ability for connecting with special needs children as a teenager in yeshiva. After spending time in Lubavitch yeshivas in Israel, Zev came to the United States and was involved in the early development of Livingston, New Jersey’s Friendship Circle chapter. It was during this time that he met Chani, née Schmidt. Chani Baram grew up in Philadelphia as a Chabad Shlucha and has three brothers with special needs. In the early years of their marriage, the Barams were involved in many Chabad initiatives but, over time, the growing Friendship Circle community needed their full-time attention. What started with just one child matched with two teen volunteers, has become a program offering a wide range of services and volunteer opportunities for hundreds of children, teens and adults. The Philly Friendship Circle has primarily grown through word of mouth, and now new inquiries come in nearly every day. Rabbi Zev shared that, “The whole idea behind the Friendship Circle comes from the Lubavitcher Rebbe who taught us to recognize the unique mission each of us play in this world. Jewish mysticism teaches that we were each created with a divine soul, with our own unique and diverse characteristics, and brought into this world to accomplish an important

(credit: Jay Gorodetzer Photography) mission that only we can accomplish. Being a united community means that we are NOT all the same and need one another to be complete.” Holly Cohen of Merion Station echoed this sentiment: “Leib and I and all of our children have volunteered with the Philly Friendship Circle since it began. It’s an incredible opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives. But the greatest impact is that, as volunteers, our children developed a deeper sensitivity to the needs of other people.” The core programs are Friends @ Home and Sunday Circles. The Friends @ Home program recognizes that building friendships can be challenging, and children with special needs are often socially isolated outside of school. Teen volunteers are matched with these children for at-home visits where they enjoy unstructured time together. Sunday Circles got their start at Lower Merion Synagogue which hosted the

Reflections from Joan Wolpert, a Philly Friendship Circle parent, who resides in Elkins Park

n January 1993, my son was 13 months old when he was assessed with global delays in all spheres: fine/gross motor, speech/language and cognitive/social. Having come of age in the 1970s when there were a lot of support groups, I assumed I would find a special needs support group in the greater Philadelphia Jewish world. How can I convey the long silence and complete gap? One organization offered a once a year “coffee & conversation” in a living room crowded with parents of offspring from infancy to middle age. Another group offered a yearly Chanukah party. There was the special needs department of an overburdened organization responsible for every possible special needs individual of all ages. They also offered a yearly social event. Yearly. Before I became a special needs mother, I was insensitive to the personal needs of special needs individuals and their parents. And, I worked in an adult psychiatric partial hospital!

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Then in 2003, the Philly Friendship Circle arrived. Rabbi Zev and Chani Baram were thinking of us! Sunday Circles where our children would have close interpersonal contact with a loving peer. Let’s say that over and over...close interpersonal contact, close interpersonal contact, close interpersonal contact. Not just our children, but the parents too. Do you know how isolating it is to have this problem? It’s a devastation that at the same time requires tremendous skill-building in all the habilitative interventions, as well as special education and disability law. There is no way that we or our children could grow, or that we as parents could cope and be effective, without frequent and sustainable quality programming and support. We needed weekly, we needed parent support groups, we needed a community of peers to embrace and love our children. The Philly Friendship Circle has delivered all of this, beyond what we could have imagined.

(credit: Jay Gorodetzer Photography) program from 2005-2009. Today, Sunday Circles are held 20 times per year at numerous locations in Montgomery County. They offer dynamic activities for children, teens and young adults, with and without disabilities. Professional staff and facilitators organize and oversee activities which model social skills and help participants build friendships. Activities include art, cooking, sports, karate, dance, movement, music and much more. While the children are having fun, programming for siblings and parents are offered. Naomi Rudin of Philadelphia shared that the Friendship Circle and the Barams “are always there for our whole family, any time of day to help our children and family.” Tzvi Rudin added that for those without a place to turn, they can be a much-needed shoulder to cry on. A highlight of each year’s programming is the Philly Friendship Walk and Family Fun Fair. This year’s event was held on Sunday, October 6, at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy. The theme was “We All Belong,” with a focus on the need to build inclusive friendship and community opportunities. The family friendly event raised critical funds to support the organization’s services. A one-mile walk was followed by a fair featuring entertainment, Sukkot crafts, face painting and numerous activities. Quiet and sensory spaces were set aside to ensure the event was as accommodating as possible. The Barams have noticed a shift in how teen volunteers describe their experience. It used to be about feeling good “helping” kids with special needs. Now, they talk about how meaningful the relationships they have with these kids are, and

how grateful they are for the opportunity. It’s a subtle shift, but an important one. While the volunteer outlook has changed, so has the way the Friendship Circle runs on the ground. For example, in the early days volunteer teens wore orange t-shirts to differentiate and help build a community amongst themselves. Teen volunteers were also honored at the annual Gala for their leadership. Today, the volunteers don’t wear anything special and all teens are honored together with their names listed side by side on the Gala invitation. Chani Baram reflected on 15 years of Sunday Circles: “We see the power of friendship and the beauty of Jewish youth. I walk away from every single Sunday Circle feeling uplifted. In a time when there are so many divisions between our people, it is humbling to see our Friendship Circle youth rise beyond their differences, discover so much about one another, and shine so brightly together.” The Barams attribute the Philly Friendship’s success to being embraced by the community. Without their own space, they rely on Jewish institutions to host their programs, and volunteer and donor support. They have just two rules for volunteers and participants; be yourself and have fun.

(credit: Jay Gorodetzer Photography)

(credit: Jay Gorodetzer Photography) October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Over 900 People Gather for Philadelphia Gala to Benefit Israeli Soldiers (Courtesy of FIDF)

ver 900 business and community leaders and VIPs gathered at Vie in Philadelphia on September 18 for the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey Ninth Annual Gala to pay tribute to the brave men and women of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The event honored FIDF supporters Dr. Robert and Carol Summers of Gladwyne. The Summers have participated in several FIDF missions, hosted Israeli soldiers visiting the area, and provided financial aid to many lower-income soldiers. “It is a privilege to be honored by FIDF, whose important work helps support those who are on the front lines defending the one and only Jewish state,” said Dr. Summers. “Israel faces great challenges and the brave men and women of the IDF risk their lives to protect it. We, in turn, must protect them.” A delegation of IDF soldiers and officers traveled from Israel to attend the gala, including soldiers who volunteer to

Prayer for the Soldiers given by Burton Morris and Mickey Shefet. (Photo credit: Master Studio Photography) enlist and serve Israel proudly, despite not being mandated to do so due to their backgrounds and special circumstances. Among those being recognized was Cpl. Sofie, a Danish Lone Soldier (one who enlists in the IDF without having immediate family in Israel). Sofie was raised as a Christian, though her Jewish father served in the IDF. She is among the few women to serve as an F-35 jet mechanic

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(From right to left) FIDF supporters and gala honorees Dr. Robert and Carol Summers. (Photo credit: Master Studio Photography) in the Israeli Air Force (IAF). Also honored was Lt. A., a Lone Soldier from East Jerusalem whose choice to join the IDF – which he viewed as his patriotic duty – cost him his friends, family and home. After years of homelessness, A. is living his childhood dream of being an IDF officer and is excited about his future. Other soldiers in attendance included Israeli Navy boat trainer Sgt. (Res.) N., who received support from the FIDF LEGACY Program; Lt. Kinneret, who received an FIDF IMPACT! Scholarship; Staff Sgt. Aaron, a Lone Soldier from New Jersey who serves in the IDF paratroopers brigade; and Major R., an IAF pilot. Sandy and Stephen Cozen; Jennifer and Michael Troped; Lauren and Adam Rosen; and Anh and David Summers co-chaired the gala. Comedian, author, and former IDF Lone Soldier Joel Chasnoff presided as the dinner’s master of ceremonies. A Chicago native, Chasnoff volunteered to serve in the IDF’s Armored Corps with a tour of duty in South Lebanon, later writing about his experience in “The 188th Crybaby Brigade.” The IDF

(From left to right) FIDF Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey Director Tzvia Wexler, FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir, and FIDF supporter Michael Kochman. (Photo credit: Master Studio Photography)

Honorees and members of the community at the Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey gala. (Photo credit: Master Studio Photography) Musical Ensemble provided the evening’s entertainment. Other distinguished guests included FIDF National Director and CEO Maj. Gen. (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir, and FIDF Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey Executive Director Tzvia Wexler. “Our annual dinner is a wonderful opportunity to meet active-duty soldiers from different faiths, all with the same goal of protecting Israel,” said Wexler. “Our supporters from the Philadelphia community have the chance to thank the brave soldiers who defend Israel and directly benefit from FIDF’s important wellbeing and educational programs.” October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

COMMUNITY NEWS

Local Shul to Take Part in OU Women’s Initiative to Make Simchat Torah More Meaningful for Women manner,” stated Orthodox Union President Moishe he Orthodox Union Bane. (OU) is taking a sig“The OU takes trenificant step to make mendous pride in prothe observance of Simchat viding programming for Torah more meaningful for each and every member women in North America. of our community,” noted The OU Women’s Initiative Orthodox Union Execuis partnering with more tive Vice President Allen than 40 synagogues in 17 Fagin. “Enhancing the joy U.S. states and one Cana- Rebbetzin Dr. Adina and meaningful oppordian province to provide Shmidman of Lower tunity for Torah learning, shiurim for women on Sim- Merion Synagogue, who that women in these 40 chat Torah morning during is also Founding Director communities will derive aliyot. Lower Merion Syna- of the OU Women’s from their celebration of gogue in Bala Cynwyd will Initiative. Simchat Torah is a perfect be participating in this example.” special program. A Simchat Torah morning shiur for “The opportunity to celebrate the To- women was introduced at Lower Merion rah through study is a fulfillment of the Synagogue several years ago as an opessence of Simchat Torah,” said Found- portunity for women to engage in Torah ing Director of the OU Women’s Initia- study on Simchat Torah, a holiday celtive Rebbetzin Dr. Adina Shmidman. ebrating the Torah. The success of that “Connecting synagogues with local program helped lead to the national inischolars creates a Simchat Torah morn- tiative. ing learning opportunity so that all feel “Having a women’s Torah touchpoint involved and engaged.” resonated, and the shiur gained trac“The program was piloted last year tion,” remarked Rebbetzin Dr. Adina and received very positive feedback. Shmidman. “Seeing how positively the This year our member synagogues shiur was received at Lower Merion were very interested in an expansion of Synagogue, it was a natural decision for this program as it addresses an impor- the OU Women’s Initiative to launch this tant communal need in a very effective program on a national level.”

40+

5780

WOMEN’S SHIURIM ACROSS NORTH AMERICA

(Courtesy of the OU)

Rabbanit Dina Acoca

Rebbetzin Yael Mrs. Zahava Bauer Axelrod

Rebbetzin Ariela Davis

Mrs. Emunah Fialkoff

Mrs. Rachel Rebbetzin Sara Frazer Frieberg

Mrs. Tal Gilboa

Mrs. Stacey Goldman

Ms. Sarah Heller

Dr. Malka Ismach

Dr. Jessica Kalmar

Mrs. Shanny Mrs. Shoshana Katzman Klafter

Mrs. Rachel Kosowsky

Mrs. Miriam Krupka Berger

Dr. Sara Markowitz

Rebbetzin Malka Moskovitz

Dr. Yael Muskat

Mrs. Aviva Orlian

Dr. Deena Rabinovich

Mrs. Atara Rosenbaum

Mrs. Leia Rubin

Mrs. Yael Saffra

Mrs. Ora Sheinson

Mrs. Arielle Sherman

Mrs. Racheli Taubes

Dr. Tzipi Turner

Mrs. Geri Wiener

Mrs. Mindy Rebbetzin Lisa Septimus Schwartz Zolty

Morah Erica Rebbetzin Yadlovker Barbara Yasgur

⊲ Mikhli Scholars Shiurim

⊲ Mrs. Meira Lampert

⊲ Rebbetzin Rochelle Hirtz

⊲ Dr. Chaya Rapp

⊲ Mrs. Debbie Kasztl

VISIT GO.OU.ORG/ST ⊲ Young Israel of Oceanside Oceanside, NY

OU WOMEN'S INITIATIVE HOST SYNAGOGUES

⊲ Congregation Adath Israel of the JEC Hillside, NJ

⊲ Beth Joseph Congregation Phoenix, AZ

⊲ Anshe Chesed Linden, NJ

⊲ Young Israel of North Woodmere North Woodmere, NY

⊲ LINK Kollel Los Angeles, CA

⊲ Congregation Shaare Tefillah Teaneck, NJ

⊲ Green Road Synagogue Beachwood, OH

⊲ Congregation Beth Aaron Teaneck, NJ

⊲ Golf Manor Synagogue Cincinnati, OH

⊲ Shul On The Beach Venice, CA ⊲ East Denver Orthodox Synagogue (EDOS) Denver, CO

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Mrs. Devorah Rebbetzin Cohen Aviel Brodkin

Ms. Shira Eliassian

⊲ Young Israel of Century City Los Angeles, CA

Chag Sameach from the Philadelphia Jewish Link

Mrs. Batyah Brander

⊲ Congregation Sha’arei Torah Cincinnati, OH

⊲ Young Israel Aish Las Vegas, NV ⊲ Riverdale Jewish Center Bronx, NY

⊲ Congregation Kesser Israel Portland, OR ⊲ Lower Merion Synagogue Bala Cynwyd, PA

⊲ Young Israel of West Hartford West Hartford, CT

⊲ Congregation Etz Chaim Flushing, NY

⊲ Congregation Torah Ohr Boca Raton, FL

⊲ Young Israel of Great Neck Great Neck, NY

⊲ Young Israel of Hollywood-Fort Lauderdale Hollywood, FL

⊲ Young Israel of Holliswood Holliswood, NY

⊲ The Meyerland Minyan Synagogue Houston, TX

⊲ Congregation Beth Sholom Lawrence, NY

⊲ Congregation Beth Rambam Houston, TX

⊲ Congregation Shaaray Tefila Lawrence, NY

⊲ Keneseth Beth Israel Richmond, VA

⊲ Young Israel of New Rochelle New Rochelle, NY

⊲ Congregation Beth Jehudah Milwaukee, WI

⊲ Mount Sinai Jewish Center New York, NY

⊲ Anshe Sfard Kehillat Torah Milwaukee, WI

⊲ Congregation Ohab Zedek New York, NY

⊲ Congregation Beit Tikvah Dollard des Ormeaux, Quebec

⊲ Beth Israel Abraham & Voliner (BIAV) Overland Park, KS ⊲ Young Israel Shomrai Emunah Silver Spring, MD ⊲ Congregation Shomrei Torah Fair Lawn, NJ ⊲ Sephardic Congregation of Fort Lee Fort Lee, NJ

⊲ Brith Sholom Beth Israel Charleston, SC

Philadelphia JEWISH LINK

COMMUNITY NEWS

Dignified Healthcare for All By Gwen Horowitz

r. Jack and Blima Ludmir are Narberth residents and active members of the Lower Merion Jewish community. They are also passionate global advocates for healthcare equity and vulnerable patient populations. Their focus is on medical treatment administered with dignity. At a time when women are facing increasing levels of violence and marginalization in many parts of the world, dignified care can be all but unknown. While visiting hospitals in Honduras and in many other countries in Latin America, Jack remembers being treated with extreme respect by the medical staff, but female patients were treated with disdain. Jack used direct and unflinching language to instill the critical need to treat patients the way the medical staff would want to be treated themselves. He seeks to train medical professionals not only in skills but also in how to treat patients as people, not as bodies, particularly for the poor and vulnerable. Jack served as Pennsylvania Hospital’s Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology for 18 years. In 2003, he noticed the hospital was seeing an inordinate number of Hispanic women on the labor and delivery floor who had never had prenatal care. Wanting to understand this growing trend, he sought out Dr. Steven Larson, an Emergency Medicine physician at the University of Pennsylvania with experience in migrant populations Together they recognized the important need for low-cost or free healthcare for undocumented immigrants. They spent over a year holding meetings with healthcare and community stakeholders, and ultimately concluded that a traditional medical service model would prove ineffective to meet the complex needs of this immigrant population. A more holistic model was necessary to address the social factors which influence health and are often neglected by mainstream healthcare providers. The nonprofit they created was Puentes de Salud (Bridges of Health), with a special program called the Latina Community Health Services that specifically served Hispanic women. The life-saving work Puentes offers was the subject of a 2016 HBO documentary, Clinica de Migrantes. The documentary won numerous industry awards for its portrayal of both the staff and patients of Puentes. It put a face to the millions of displaced individuals in our country and offered a behind-the-scenes look at the volunteer medical professionals who ensure these people receive critical care.

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The Pew Research Center estimates that 3% of the United States population is undocumented, and 30,000 undocumented Latino immigrants live in Philadelphia. Most work in low-paying jobs which lack health care benefits, and face language and cultural barriers. Despite these challenges, this community continues to grow. Historically, immigrants from Latin America arrived for economic opportunity. In the past decade, this has changed to a population fleeing horrific abuse and violence in the “Northern Triangle” countries of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Women are particularly impacted; in Honduras a woman is murdered every 16 hours, and 22% of women experience physical or sexual violence. Jack is currently the Executive Vice President for Equity and the Associate Provost for Community Engagement at Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health. Last year, to address the

shifting needs of arriving Hispanic immigrants, he created the Jefferson Latina Clinic in Philadelphia (JLC). This Clinic provides free and low-cost prenatal and postpartum care to an uninsured and undocumented population. Both Puentes de Salud and the Jefferson Latina Clinic recognize the healthcare disparities that exist in Philadelphia’s communities and work to break down barriers to care. They serve women with no money, no support system, and nowhere else to turn. Jack and Blima both grew up in Lima, Peru, with fathers who set aside time from their private medical practices to provide free care for their community’s needy population. Like many of Lima’s Jewish families, theirs had escaped persecution in Europe. Jack and Blima feel that their efforts on behalf of Philadelphia’s undocumented population is a way of giving back for the help Jews received when arriving in new countries as a displaced people. Jack said, we are a “wandering

people who have had to rely on foreign countries to take us in throughout our history, and now it is our turn.” In 2016, the University of Pennsylvania Health System renamed its Women’s and Children’s Health Services clinic as the Ludmir Center for Women’s Health. At the dedication ceremony, Jack recognized his wife’s integral role saying, “She truly represents what the Ludmir Center for Women’s Health should be: a place that cares, understands, and supports women regardless of who they are or their ability to pay.” Blima acts as a translator and care coordinator for patients at JLC. She is “on call” around the clock and personally follows up with patients. Her phone rings constantly as she is found by word-ofmouth. Like Jack, Blima recognizes that the actual medical care is only a part of what is needed. Treating a vulnerable and scared individual with respect can make a tremendous difference in their medical outcome. The JLC connects women to the additional services offered at Puentes de Salud, including social services, therapists, and legal help. In this way, they can offer the holistic care which is needed. The JLC opens on Tuesdays and, at each opening, Jack repeats the same thing to volunteers: “Come and be a witness. But while you are here, remember that this is a sanctuary for women, sometimes the only one they know. A kind word and a smile are the only requirements.” Jack and Blima have inspired medical professionals, community volunteers, and even their own patients to work as Promotoras. Patients with the ability to develop leadership skills are trained to do outreach in their own communities. These women welcome the opportunity to give back and help their neighbors. At Jefferson, the Ludmirs are also involved with a new initiative called the Philadelphia Collaborative for Health Equity where Jack is the Executive Director. The Collaborative’s goal is to narrow the gap in healthcare disparities and improve health for all of Philadelphia’s residents. It seeks to address the social determinants which impact healthcare through community outreach and partnerships. Jack and Blima lose a lot of sleep worrying about keeping their programs sustainable. They need volunteer medical professionals, funding, and community support. Quite simply, they embody Rabbi Hillel’s maxim, “If I am not for myself, who is for me? When I am for myself, what am I? If not now, when?” (Pirkei Avot 1:14) For more information about Puentes de Salud, visit www.puentesdesalud.org. For more information about the Philadelphia Collaborative for Health Equity, visit https://p-che.org. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

COMMUNITY NEWS

Center City Rabbi Releases New Book By PJL Staff

ust in time for the Yamim Noraim, Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch released his latest book, The Book of Life: A Transformative Guide to the High Holidays, Part One: Rosh Hashana. Available on Amazon in Kindle Edition, the book offers fresh insights and debunks common misconceptions about Rosh Hashana. Like his Amazon bestsellers, Bringing Order to the Seder: A Modern Guide to the Traditional Passover Haggadah and Pesach Without the Pain: A Practical Guide to the Laws and Practices of Pass-

over, Rabbi Hirsch’s guide to Rosh Hashana is intended to dramatically change your holiday into an uplifting and powerful experience. “I believe that commonplace impressions about the High Holidays are based on relatively recent additions to the machzor prayer book, which paint a picture of dread, despair and death,” said Rabbi Hirsch, who is the spiritual leader and founding rabbi of Mekor Habracha/ Center City Synagogue. “This

Rabbi Eliezer Hirsch of Mekor Habracha/Center City Synagogue.

perspective has a negative impact on our view of God and Judaism throughout the remainder of the year as well. I wrote The Book of Life to present a fresh perspective founded on more authoritative sources such as the Gemara, Midrash, and Rambam, which demonstrate that Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur are actually the most exciting and empowering days of the year, because they can teach us how to achieve a life full of passion and fulfillment.”

Choosing the right college shouldn’t be so hard. (For students at Touro’s Lander College for Women, it isn’t.)

Join Us! Open House Nov. 3 | 2-5 pm

lcw.touro.edu

We’re worldly and warm, inspired by shared Torah values and determined to reach our potential. We grew up in communities in Bergenfield, Boca and Brazil—and love attending college on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. We share academic interests in accounting, computer science, finance, health sciences, law, medicine and psychology. We all love the family-like atmosphere in the dorm and a friendly community of students and professors who care about our success. If you ask us, choosing Touro’s Lander College for Women was our best decision ever. Dean Marian Stoltz-Loike, Ph.D. | Lander College for Women 227 W. 60th Street, NY, NY For more information contact Sarah Klugmann at 212.520.4263 or sarah.klugmann@touro.edu

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Philadelphia JEWISH LINK

COMMUNITY NEWS

Local Museum to Present East Coast Premiere of Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Courtesy of the National Museum of American Jewish History)

he National Museum of American Jewish History (NMAJH), which is located on historic Independence Mall in Philadelphia, will be the premier East Coast venue for Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the first-ever exhibition about the trailblazing associate justice. Based on The New York Times bestselling book of the same name and created in partnership with its authors, Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik, the exhibition will take a deeply personal journey through historic change with an entertaining yet thorough look at the life and work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg (RBG) and the Supreme Court. In addition to exploring Justice Ginsburg’s work as a Supreme Court Justice, the special exhibition delves into her roles as student, wife, mother, lawyer, trailblazer, women’s rights pioneer, and pop culture icon. Notorious RBG will be on view at NMAJH from October 4, 2019 through January 12, 2020. “This fall, I am thrilled to celebrate Justice Ginsburg’s groundbreaking career as an activist, advocate, icon, and the first Jewish woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court,” said Josh Perelman, PhD, Chief Curator and Director of Exhibitions and Interpretation. “Justice Ginsburg’s life and career are an essential reminder that the freedoms promised here in Philadelphia are the right of every person in the country.” The exhibition Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg was organized by the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. Through archival photographs and documents, historical artifacts, contemporary art, media stations, and gallery interactives, it explores the American legal system and civil rights movements through the lens of Justice Ginsburg’s personal experiences and public service. Like the book, it tells the parallel stories of her remarkable life and the efforts she joined to expand “We the People” to include those long left out of the Constitution’s promises. Justice Ginsburg acquired the nickname “Notorious RBG” after a series of

(Credit: Robert Wedemeyer) fiery, record-breaking dissents she gave from the Supreme Court bench in 2013. Most vividly, she protested the gutting of the Voting Rights Act, comparing the decision to “throwing away your umbrella in a rainstorm because you are not getting wet.” The exhibition marries immersive 3-dimensional environments with historic artifacts to bring key moments in Justice Ginsburg’s personal and professional story to life. There will be recreations of Justice Ginsburg’s childhood Brooklyn apartment and of the Supreme Court bench, where visitors can take a seat and imagine making their own opinions heard. Visitors will also gain insight into RBG’s marriage to Martin “Marty” Ginsburg, her partner of more than fifty years, through family snapshots and other materials from their life together, including some of Marty’s favorite recipes as the accomplished amateur chef of the Ginsburg household. Finally, reflecting RBG’s

Official portrait of United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Joan Bader Ginsburg. Courtesy of WDC photos/ Alamy Stock Photo.

effect on pop culture, Notorious RBG will include contemporary art by artists such as Maira Kalman, the creator of NMAJH’s spring/summer 2019 exhibition, Sara Berman’s Closet, and Ari Richter. The National Museum of American Jewish History brings to life the more than 360-year history of Jews in America. Tracing the stories of how Jewish immigrants became Jewish Americans, the Museum invites visitors of all backgrounds to share their own stories and reflect on how their histories and identities shape and are shaped by the American experience. NMAJH is located at 101 South Independence Mall East at the corner of Fifth and Market Streets in Philadelphia. Admission to Notorious RBG is $9 dollars; timed-entry tickets are required. Admission to the core exhibition is free. Children 12 and under, Museum members, and active military with ID are always free. For more information on hours and admission, visit NMAJH.org or call 215.923.3811.

Where can I pick up a copy of the Philadelphia Jewish Link? See back cover for full list of locations. We just added some NEW ones! 22

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October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

CHERRY BLOSSOMS

A Rosh Hashanah to Remember By Rabbi Ephraim Epstein

very Rosh Hashanah is memorable; in fact, it is even called Yom Hazikaron, Day of Remembrance. However, this year 5780, is a Rosh Hashanah that the Cherry Hill community will recall for a very long time. It was a lovely Shabbos, September 28th, Parshas Nitzavim a day before Yom Tov. The shuls were full, and the attitudes positive as we were all looking forward to a meaningful Rosh Hashanah and a sweet New Year. Then, on Motzei Shabbos between 10:30-11:00 p.m. the heavens opened up with wrath. A local paper, the Cherry Hill Patch reported: “A devastating storm that knocked over trees and destroyed homes in Cherry Hill late Saturday night has been identified as a “downburst” by the National Weather Service out of Mount Holly.” Enormous trees were uprooted all over the neighborhood, a few fires broke out and the roads as well as several homes were flooded. However, the greatest challenge was that over 1,000 homes many of them owned by Jews were now without power on Erev Rosh Hashanah!! What to do? As we awakened on Erev Yom Tov, we were informed that PSE&G hoped to

Cherry Hill firefighters and EMS responded to more than 120 incidents during a storm that hit the area last weekend. (Courtesy: Cherry Hill Fire Department) restore power sometime later in the day. Great! How would people be able to prepare for Yom Tov? Some simply chose to change their plans and leave. But the majority of people chose to stay and make it work. And make it work they did. Those who had power opened up their doors to those who did not; to house, cook, and store food in freezers and refrigerators. Our local Chaverim procured 30 generators to share so families would indeed be able to prepare. The sense of community was palpable and the words of the

tefillah, vechulam yeyaseh agudah achas, “and the people of Israel will become one cluster” jumped out of the Machzor and into our lives. One of our shuls was not operable so other institutions offered to open their doors and make space for them. It was a fantastic demonstration of sheves achim gam yachad, “brothers dwelling in harmony together.” Perhaps the most creative moment of the day was when a Rebbetzin schlepped her 25-pound mixer and a large bag of potatoes onto the back of a truck of a

workman who shared some power to help prepare potatoes to make kugel. Baruch Hashem two hours before Yom Tov PSE&G restored almost all of the power in town. So last minute preparations were able to occur, and everyone entered Yom Tov with a tremendous sense of gratitude. - Thankful there were no fatalities or injuries. - Thankful that we had power back for Yom Tov. - Thankful for all the modern-day amenities we usually take for granted. - Thankful that we live in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, a community where we take care of one another. Perhaps the greatest lesson of all was: Just as we would have been unable to advance and take care of our needs without electrical power and energy, so too (and even more so) without the divine energy that Hashem shares with us every minute allowing us to breathe, see, hear, and live we would not be able to function. This Rosh Hashanah was truly a Rosh Hashanah to remember. Rabbi Ephraim Epstein is the senior rabbi at Congregation Sons of Israel, Cherry Hill. He is also the Rav HaMachshir of the Cherry K, a Cherry Hill Police Chaplain and the inaugural president of the recently founded Vaad Harabbonim of Cherry Hill. He can be reached at rabbiepstein@soicherryhill.org.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Childlike Joy

By Temma Cohen

he beauty of a child is their raw authenticity; a child, by nature, is unafraid to express emotions. A child will cry harder, laugh heartier, smile bigger and jump higher when excited, with no thought of who is watching and what people’s reactions to their behaviors may be. They wear their hearts on their sleeve and are effusive in their expression of their feelings. The emotions that a child conveys are in fact, deep down, the emotions that as adults, we too would feel wonderful displaying. However, we mostly suppress those emotions- social pressure and the expectations of others around us cause us to often reel in our true feelings and mask them with more rigid ones. As we approach the holiday of Sukkot, this idea October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

needs closer examination. Simcha poretz geder, a phrase coined by the fifth Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Sholom Dovber Schneersohn (the Rebbe Rashab), means “happiness breaks all boundaries.” As human creations, we are given a powerful tool from God- our mind. Our mind has the ability to control our feelings. This means we are in control of our own happiness! Our thought process is strong enough to make us feel a certain way. In the midst of any situation, it is our mindset and our attitude that frame the way we handle it. As the holiday of Sukkot approaches, we are reminded of this. Sukkot is called Zman Simchateinu, the “Time of our Joy.” It is actually a mitzvah on Sukkot to be happy- we MUST be happy, no matter how or why we may feel otherwise. On the one hand, this commandment seems impractical- what if someone finds themself going through a challenging time during this chag? How can one fulfill this mitzvah when

a deep sadness permeates one’s being? The answer lies in the children. Especially during a holiday, we can look toward the children for guidance. As I walk through the Gan Chabad classrooms preceding the holiday, I am surrounded by life and vitality. A preschool setting presents children with a hands-on holiday experience that involves all of the senses. They taste the apples dipped in honey, they glue leaves onto their miniature etrog and lulav project, they tape paper chains together for a sukkah decoration. Music plays in the background, friendly banter between friends flows and you would never know, walking into each classroom, if a child comes from any kind of challenging background at all. Their simple joy and excitement overtakes any troubles they may be going through at home. Their preparations for the holiday are so interactive and fun, all they think about is the happiness of the chag and how much they are looking forward to it.

It is that simple, innocent joy that we too can channel into our Yom Tov experience. To sit back in our sukkah and smell the sweet s’chach, peer through it at the sky and look at the stars. To close our eyes and forget any pain or stress that may be gnawing at our conscience and choose instead to focus on the hot chicken soup sitting in front of us and most of all, to appreciate the truly undiluted joy of the children that surround our table. May we all have a wonderful, truly joyful, holiday of Sukkot. Temma Cohen is first and foremost a mother of six beautiful children, who range in age from four months to 12-years-old. She is passionate about education and is currently in her 13th year of directing Gan Chabad Montessori located on the Main Line. Temma also co-directs Chabad’s Family Community along with her husband Rabbi Mendy Cohen. She loves to host family, friends and community members in her home.

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SUKKOT

Understanding the Ushpizin day. It would seem that the prevailing minhag ha’olam is to follow the former opinion and limit our invitation to once a night. However, if one forgets any night of Sukkos to perform that day’s Ushpizin, all is not lost and one certainly should still say it at any point the following day in accordance with the other opinions.

By Rabbi Meir Riber

ishrei is known as the Yerach Ha’Eisanim, “Month of Giants,” one reason for which is the plethora of Yomim Tovim we find sandwiched into just 30 days. We journey from the majesty of Rosh Hashanah to the purity of Yom Kippur, then immediately on to the festivity of Sukkos, capped a short week later with the awe of Hoshanah Rabba and the celebratory spirits of Simchas Torah. Another set of giants appearing this month, perhaps more neglected, are of course the Ushpizin, the seven illustrious guests that grace our Sukkah, one every night, those being: Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, Moshe, Aharon, Yosef and Dovid. In a good year we manage to get our Sukkah up and purchase our lulav and esrog in the few days bridging Yom Kippur and Sukkos; in a better year we actually manage to learn some of their relevant halachos during that time. Inevitably, however, our involvement with the Ushpizin is relegated to whatever is printed in our machzor and whether or not we remember to recite the Ushpizin on any given night. It is the purpose of this article to shed some illumination in a practice otherwise overshadowed by the surrounding days and deeds, and to restore the Ushpizin to the stature they are deserving of.

I. THE USHPIZIN IN HASHKAFA

Let us begin with some questions. First of all, what exactly are we doing? Are the Ushpizin in fact visiting our humble Sukkahs? The second, and perhaps more vexing issue, is why do we only invite these esteemed guests on Sukkos? Why not invite one every night of Pesach as well, or Chanukah for that matter? To fully understand matters, it is necessary to turn to the source for this custom, namely a section of the Zohar quoted in the Shelah amongst other seforim. Translated, it reads as follows: “Come, see when [a Jew] dwells in this abode [the Sukkah], the shade of emunah, the Shechina is canopied over him from above... and Avraham and five tzadikim and Dovid HaMelech establish their presence with him as well… Every night [of Sukkos] a Jew must rejoice with a shining countenance in honor of these Ushpizin that join him.” The Zohar goes on to recount that Rav Hamnuna, upon entering his Sukkah, would linger at the entrance and invite the Ushpizin, using an Aramaic formula that has become standardized as

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III.USHPIZIN VS. SHALOM ALEICHEM

the text we use every night of Sukkos. Certainly, there is room to interpret the Zohar on a superficial level, that the Avos Hakedoshim are actually coming to visit us somehow in our Sukkah over the course of Yom Tov. The commentators, however, establish that this is not the case. The Shelah writes that the spiritual aspect of the Ushpizin is what arrives in the Sukkah, while the Kaf HaChaim and Pele Yoetz both take this a step further and explain that it the particular “radiance” of each of the respective Ushpizin characters which joins us in the Sukkah. These ideas clearly converge on one principle; it is well-known that all the figures comprising the Ushpizin embodied particular traits, beginning with Avraham Avinu and his association with chesed, kindness, Yitzchak with gevurah, self-control, and onwards. Equally wellknown is that these traits represent seven middos of HaKadosh Baruch Hu, seven different ways He interacts with creation which were given to these tzaddikim to epitomize and instill in Klal Yisrael. It is thus the power and radiance of these middos that is flooding our Sukkahs, one attribute a night, bringing their potential for us to tap into. Before we return to the question of the link between Sukkos specifically and the Ushpizin’s arrival, we must pose one more dilemma. The Gemara makes it clear that our Sukkah is ultimately regarded as the property of Hashem- Shem Shamayaim chal al haSukkah, much as an animal enters the possession of the Divine when consecrated as a korban. If that is the case, we have a serious problem indeed. There is a well-known Talmudic adage that goes ein oreiach machnis oreiach, guests have no authority to invite other guests! What then gives us the right to extend our hospitality to the Ushpizin if we ourselves are but guests

of HaKadosh Baruch Hu, enjoying His accommodations? The answer is provided by reexamining the wording of the Zohar. As we saw, the Sukkah is referred to as the “Shade of Emunah,” with an emphasis on the Shechina enveloping us as we reside there. To be in another’s shadow implies negation to a power higher than oneself, the implication being, we are not merely lodging in another’s abode, we are in fact bonding with Hashem Himself as it were, with the Sukkah serving as the vehicle to be one with the Infinite. We now have our answer. We do not invite the Ushpizin during other times of the year for when we live under our own auspices, we do not have the ability to host them, being that they represent concentrated aspects of the middos of Hashem Himself. It is only the Sukkah, the structure housing the Shechina, that can provide an access point for them, and it is our negation and elevation towards the Shechina that allows us to act on Hashem’s behalf in proffering invitations.

II. THE USHPIZIN IN HALACHA

Should we be reciting the Ushpizin at every meal, perhaps every time we simply enter the Sukkah, or just once a night? The straight reading of the Zohar seems to imply that this is a once-a-day practice (as quoted above, “every night a Jew must rejoice...”), however the seforim are divided on the matter. The Shelah in his siddur, as well as the Kaf Hachayim write that the Ushpizin are only meant to be invited once every day of Sukkos, at nighttime, while the Yesod V’shoresh Ha’avoda, Pele Yoetz, and Rav Yaakov Emden maintain that the Ushpizin should be invited to every meal, even if that means multiple times in one

There is a question of minhagim in general as to whether to say Shalom Aleichem when Shabbos and Yom Tov coincide, or on Shabbos Chol Hamoed. To pursue this topic is not within the scope of our discussion, but what is relevant to us is the following. According to those who do sing Shalom Aleichem on Yom Tov as well, what takes priority on Leil Shabbos of Sukkos? Do we begin with addressing the malachim, or does that night’s tzaddik receive our attention first? The consensus seems to be in favor of Shalom Aleichem, the logic being that the malachim have already accompanied us back from shul, as per the Gemara in Maseches Shabbos, and it would be inappropriate to keep them waiting while we invite the Ushpizin. In addition, there is an argument of tadir v’shaino tadir, the Talmudic dictum that the more common practice takes precedence over the less common in the event of conflict. However, there is an opinion that we delay Shalom Aleichem until after reciting the Ushpizin, one reason offered for this in the name of the Satmar Rav is based on the Gemara in Sanhedrin that brings an opinion that tzaddikim in their departure attain a level of holiness above that of the malachim. Let us approach Sukkos with an enhanced appreciation of the Ushpizin. When we bid farewell to the Sukkah, we will take physical leave, but we will not leave the middos of the Ushpizin behind. Rather, we will emerge from the Sukkah to approach the winter with a newfound richness and radiance. Rabbi Meir Riber served as a Rebbi and Mashgiach in Yeshivas Aish HaTorah Jerusalem for over 10 years. He moved a year ago with his family to Philadelphia, where he is now Rosh Kollel of the CBS Community Center and Shul and Community Rav in the Somerton area. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

SUKKOT

A Succos Lesson: Two Hearts Beating as One By Rabbi Baruch Lichtenstein

grew up on the same farm and are inseparable. As a result of their closeness they can feel each other’s pain. When the man whips one horse the other feels the sting and as a result pulls harder as

TI NG

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

YEAR

Mishnayos Shel Chesed:

You can create an Eternal Merit for your Loved One

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pass the mesorah on to our brethren. He does not look kindly at our fulfillment of a mitzvah if thereby we cause our brother a transgression. How can we achieve unity? The Hebrew word for the number one is echad. The g’matria, (numerical value) of echad is 13. Likewise, the Hebrew word for love, ahava, is 13. The only way to achieve true oneness is when both parties manifest true love for one another. It was this type of unity that the Jewish people had when we received the Torah on Har Sinai, as Rashi comments k’ish echad b’lev echad, the Jewish people were unified like one man and one heart. If we look carefully at our brothers and sisters, at their very essence, we can come to an appreciation and love for every Jew. There’s a story that gives meaning to the concept of Jewish unity. It was during Napoleon’s invasion of Russia that some of his highly trained soldiers got stuck in a snowstorm. Realizing that they were unable to continue their advance they decided to spend the night in a home that happened to be owned by a devout Jew living in that area. After settling in for the night, one of the soldiers was gazing out of the window and saw an elderly Jewish man sitting in a carriage being pulled by two old horses. They were trekking with ease through the heavy snow. The soldier wondered how it was possible for these two old horses to make their way through the snow when their own younger and highly trained horses couldn’t. The host, recognizing the man and his horses, explained. That man has owned those horses since their birth. The horses

n the first day of Succos we will fulfill the Biblical precept of lifting and holding the Four Species. We will bind to the lulav three hadassim as well as two arovos. In our other hand we will hold the esrog. Holding all Four Species closely together is a requirement for the proper fulfillment of this mitzvah. A well-known Medrash notes that the esrog has both a good taste and a pleasant smell, the lulav has just a good taste (as it comes from a date tree), and the hadassim have just a good smell. The arovos, however, has neither a good taste nor a good smell. With deep insight, the Medrash teaches us that each of these species represents a different kind of Jew: some have Torah knowledge and good deeds, some have a lot of Torah knowledge but few deeds, some have many deeds but are shallow in Torah knowledge and some (like the arava) have neither of these qualities – no Torah knowledge and sadly no good deeds. In a beautiful lesson on the importance of unity among the Jewish people, Hashem says that they should all be taken together to atone for one another. This thought has halachic ramifications. The Shulchan Aruch rules that we may not and must not fulfill the mitzvah of holding the Four Species on Shabbos lest a well-meaning but uneducated Jew in need of a demonstration lesson on how to properly shake a lulav would carry his lulav and esrog to his teacher through a public domain and in violation of the precept not to carry on Shabbos. The possibility of a violation to the sanctity of Shabbos overrides the fulfillment of the lulav mitzvah. Let’s analyze this Rabbinic restriction more deeply. Thousands of Jews around the world spend hours and hours of time and a considerable amount of money in search of the “perfect set” and yet they are forbidden to shake their precious species on Shabbos because there may be a Jew somewhere in the world who may unwittingly carry them on Shabbos! We see from this that there is more to mitzvah observance than just looking after oneself to properly fulfill them. Hashem looks at our people as a collective nation. And He wants us to feel responsible for each other, to internalize a feeling of achdus, unity, and in this way

well. Because both of these horses work in tandem with each other they are able to plow through any storm. This is the meaning of true achdus: two hearts beating as one. When we hold the Daled Minim, the Four Species, in our hands, let’s keep in mind this Daled Minim lesson. Together we are able to confront any storm and challenge that the new year may bring. Indeed,‫טובים השנים מן האחד‬, two are better than one! Chag Sameach and Good Yom Tov to all! Rabbi Baruch Lichtenstein is the Menahel at Kosloff Torah Academy. A musmach of Yeshiva Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, he holds a B.S. in Biology from the City College of New York (CCNY) and a Master’s degree in School Administration from Teachers College of Columbia University. He also holds state certification as a secondary school principal. His more than four decades of experience in Jewish education include teaching and administrative assignments on both the elementary and high school levels.

When a Jew passes away, they can no longer perform mitzvos or get closer to Hashem. By arranging learning for the soul of a departed family member or friend, their soul can be elevated. As their loved ones, it is within our power to help their neshamos (souls) ascend ever higher. Through First Seder Bais Medrash’s MISHNAYOS SHEL CHESED Program, for just $613, we will learn the entire Shas Mishnayos in memory of your loved one.

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SUKKOT

Safety in an Unsafe World By Rabbi Nesanel Cadle

he world is rapidly changing. There are constant, vast advances in so many areas of human endeavor. Things which were completely unimaginable in the not too distant past are now commonplace, thanks to modern technology. Unfortunately, we have also seen an alarming rise of anti-Semetic attacks in our country, and in locations around the world. With such rapid and unsettling

changes taking place, it is natural to feel more anxious and alarmed. Sukkos, appropriately, is a Chag designed to reassure us, and help us feel more secure. After an intense period of introspection, teshuva, and prayer, from the beginning of Elul through Yom Kippur, we are invited to spend a period of time rejoicing with Hakadosh Baruch Hu. After we adjust our perspective, and work hard to clean our slate, Hashem says to us, “now, rejoice with Me.” This rejoicing is designed to be the result of channeling our feelings of anxiety and concern about our fate in the coming year into constructive prayer

and repentance. We display our complete faith that Hashem will grant us all of our requests for the good. We act upon this faith when we perform the most prominent mitzvah of Sukkos, by leaving our homes and dwelling in the sukkah. By residing in a temporary, flimsy abode, we demon-

strate and act upon our absolute belief that it is God alone who assures our safety and comfort in this world. May Hashem grant that this Yom Tov of Sukkos strengthen our faith in Him, and that we feel assured and safe in His hands. In the merit of our performance of all the mitzvos of this season, with happiness and celebration, may the Jewish people finally be granted the long-term stability and security which can only be ours with the coming of Mashiach. Rabbi Nesanel Cadle is the rabbi at Congregation Knesset Hasefer in Yardley, PA.

It Shouldn’t Take a Synagogue Shooting to Unite Us By Rabbi Yochonon Goldman

year ago, Pennsylvania’s Jews saw our veneer of security shatter with the horrific Pittsburgh shooting that took 11 holy souls. Their only crime was wanting to gather as Jews and pray on Shabbos. In its wake, Jewish people from every stripe came together to comfort the injured, to console the bereaved, and to rebuild. I remember a neighbor coming that evening to our shul and asking for a mezuzah to hang on her front door. She told me that she grew up Jewish and had raised her children Jewish, but it wasn’t until the tragic event in Pittsburgh that she made the decision to proudly display a mezuzah on her front door. That was her personal response. The reaction to the Pittsburgh shooting was a theme that repeated itself over and over this past year, as anti-Semitic attacks in the United States skyrocketed. After a white supremacist murdered one and injured three others in Poway, California, the community united. Hundreds of Jews gathered for Shabbos services. On their way into the building, they passed crowds holding signs of support. Just before Rosh Hashanah, Jews of many different denominations gathered in Brooklyn to show their support for the Chasidic community, after a wave of anti-Semitic attacks targeted them. But it shouldn’t take an external threat to unite us. Sukkos has a unique connection to Jewish unity. Chazal tell us (Sukkah 27b)

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“All of Israel are fit to dwell in one sukkah.” This is inferred from Vayikra 23:42, the command that “Every resident among the Israelites shall live in sukkos.” The Lubavitcher Rebbe explains that the sukkah, which is a mitzvah that encompasses every part of the person, brings to mind the Godly energy that gives life to all of us equally. We may have differing talents, differing abilities, differing levels of observance or minhagim, but Sukkos is all about focusing on our commonalities. Sukkos shows us that it is not despite, but because of our differences that we can unite to form a whole. In the sukkah, we gather the Daled Minim, the Four Species, each symbolizing another denomination of the Jewish community: those who are scholarly and do good deeds, those who focus only on Torah study, those who occupy themselves primarily with good deeds, and those who emphasize none of the above (Vayikra Rabbah 30:12). Each of the Four Species symbolize unity in their own way, as well: the lulav’s leaves must be bound tightly together (Sukkah 32a). The hadas must have leaves that grow in level rows- equal with one another (Sukkah 32b) while the arava grows in bunches (Shabbos 20a). And the esrog grows all year long, uniting the seasons (Sukkah 35a). But you can’t shake four esrogim or four lulavim- our nation is complete only when all of us unite, putting aside our differences and our labels, coming together

and realizing that yes, some of us are aravos and some are esrogim, but all are needed. Binding the Four Species symbolizes this. Our focus on what unites us leads us to Simchas Torah, when we step beyond our petty differences entirely. We dance in a circle with no leaders and no followers, for we are all equal before Hashem. We dance with a covered Torah, for it is the inheritance of every Jew, regardless of whether they know how to read its words. That’s why Chabad strives to remove the barriers that may stand in the way of people who want to join in celebrating our heritage. It’s why we bring observances to people who may not even feel comfortable in a shul- you’ll see us around Philadelphia offering people the chance to shake the lulav and esrog. It’s not a marketing tactic- it’s at the core of our philosophy. Please join us in this effort. If you happen to be venturing out on Chol Hamoed, why not take your own set of Daled Minim with you to offer others who may

not have had the opportunity to make the bracha a chance to do so. Explain the significance of this mitzvah and how it brings unity to our people. As we prepare to remember the eleven sacred martyrs who gave their lives al kiddush Hashem a year ago in Pittsburgh, let’s resolve to come together as one nation. And what better time than Sukkos to get it done. There is a tradition of seeing an acronym in the spelling of the Hebrew letters of the year. This year of 5780, Taf Shin Pey, can be read as T’hei Shnas Pedus which means, “May it be a Year of Redemption.” May each of us be blessed with a G’mar chasimah tova - to be sealed in the Book of Life and may we experience a year of both personal liberation and collective liberation with the coming of Moshiach Tzidkeinu. Rabbi Yochonon Goldman is the spiritual leader of B’nai Abraham Chabad. Together with his wife Leah, they have served as emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe to Center City for the past 20 years. As director of the Zaslow Institute of Jewish Learning, he will be teaching a new JLI course based on the transformative teachings of the Tanya combined with modern psychology on Monday evenings in November. Continuing education credits are available for physicians, psychologists and social workers but the course is not limited to these professions. To find a class location near you, visit www.myjli.com. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

SUKKOT

Sukkot: Wood, Willows & Walls An Agricultural and Historical Journey to the Land x 2 By Rabbanit Shani Taragin

Weekly Dvar Torah

he celebration of each of the three regalim (Pesach, Shavuot and Sukkot) is accompanied by various mitzvot expressive of agricultural and historical significance: On Sukkot, we are commanded to sit in huts in order to remember our historical journey from Egypt to the Land of Israel and celebrate with our agricultural fruits and branches – etrog, lulav, hadassim and aravot. Sukkot simultaneously completes the annual agricultural cycle of the three festivals (barley-wheat-fruit), as well as our historical commemoration from Yetziat Mitzrayim-Har Sinai to Eretz Yisrael, thereby enhancing the happiness of the holiday – Vesamachta bechagecha… vehayita ach sameach! Interestingly, both mitzvot of Sukkot are intertwined to concurrently express our agricultural and historical dependence on and gratitude for God’s supervision. The sukkot (huts) remind us of the shelter provided by Hashem throughout our journey in the wilderness, and of the practical means of dwelling in the fields during harvest season. The Ba’al HaRokeach teaches that the sukkot are reminiscent of the military huts we camped in during our years of siege and conquest of Eretz Yisrael, recalling the final stage of our journey as we entered and fought for the Land. Rashbam explains that the sukkot remind us of our nomadic years bereft of a Land – historically and agriculturally, deterring us from feeling too smug

FROM ERETZ YISRAEL

and arrogant, as we recall our homeless past and appreciate our Homeland and homesteads anew. As the nation of Shivat Tzion gathered on the second day of Rosh Hashanah to hear the words of the Torah and the laws of Chag HaSukkot, they were told by Ezra and Nechemia to collect branches of olive, wood, myrtle (hadas), palm (lulav), and willow (arava) in order to build their sukkot, resembling those of the time of Yehoshua ben Nun. Professor Yehuda Felix understands the comparison as a botanical-historical phenomenon: due to intense agriculture and population density during the time of the First Temple, there was a shortage of wood. “A drastic change overtook the countryside after the exile of the ten tribes and the destruction of the First Temple... plantations began to yield to the encroachment of forest trees and bushes... Indeed, not since the days of Joshua the son of Nun had the country enjoyed such an ample supply of building timber for the construction of the booths in fulfillment of the biblical injunction” (Nature and Man in the Bible, Soncino Press, 1981). The sukkot thereby remind us of the eras of entering and re-entering our Land! The mitzvah of taking the four species is also expressive of agricultural and histori-

cal processes. On one hand, each species represents a topographical area of flora in Eretz Yisrael and a different stage of tree growth, (lulav – valleys and bark, hadas – mountains and branches, arava – riverbanks and leaves, etrog – irrigated fields and fruit). The Rambam explains that the happiness associated with bringing these agrarian species also serves as a historical reminder of leaving the barren wilderness bereft of water resources and fruit trees to the blossoming abundance in the Land of Israel! At the same time of year wherein we harvest the last of our fruits and bring our final Bikkurim (see Mishna Bikkurim 1:10) from the seven fruit species of Eretz Yisrael, reciting “Arami Oved Avi,” we also celebrate with the Four Species on Sukkot. A remarkable parallel may be drawn between the Mikra Bikkurim speech which recounts our national past and journey to the Land and the symbolic “speech” of the Four Species, both accompanying the respective fruits. The lulav represents our first stage in the wilderness as we dwelled in palm-covered huts for shelter (sukkot mamash). The aravot remind us of the Jordan River crossing (literally arvot Yericho) abundant with willows along the border to Eretz Yisrael. The hadasim are reminiscent of the wild flora pre-conquest and settlement during the

time of Yehoshua ben Nun. And the etrog? Just like the fruits accompanying the recital of Mikra Bikkurim, the etrog is the culmination of our historical process – the expression of our God-granted fruit harvest (Nogah HaReuveni, Nature in our Biblical Heritage, Neot Kedumim, 1980). One explanation cited for circling the mizbayach/bima each day of Sukkot with the Four Species, leading up to seven rotations on Hoshanah Rabba is to remember the miraculous victory of conquest after circling the walls of Yericho in a similar manner (YT Sukkah, Chapter 4). Rav Yaakov Ettlinger (Aruch LaNer, Sukkah 45b) explains that this is the basis of our happiness and gratitude expressed on Sukkot through a complete Hallel. Although we are grateful on Pesach and Shavuot as we recount the miracles of Yetziat Mitzrayim and Ma’amad Har Sinai, the primary praise we offer God is for the miracles performed in Eretz Yisrael, beginning with the victory of Yericho! We take our agricultural species and relive our historical journey, culminating and climaxing with Chag HaSukkot as we commemorate and celebrate the beginnings of entering Eretz Yisrael – then and now. Rabbanit Shani Taragin is Educational Director of World Mizrachi and teaches at Matan and other educational institutions in Israel.

There Are No Coincidences in Jewish Life – A Thought for the Yamim Noraim By Rabbi Ian Shaffer

he Torah reading at this time of the year, from Rosh Chodesh Elul until after Yom Kippur, begins with parshat Shoftim, a period of judgement, and ends with V’zot Habracha. It occurred to me that the name of each of these parshiot has a timely message to convey. These parshiot remind us of where we should begin in our self-assessment to prepare for the Yamim Noraim. Ki Teitzei, “when you go out,” and Ki Tavo, “when you come in.” October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

We must consider: how have we maintained our Jewish lives when we go out into the big wide world, and whether or not we have been consistent in keeping our faith and even making a Kiddush Hashem when possible. Also, Ki Tavo, when we return and come into the home, have we made our Jewish values and observance the key element in our home life? Have we made Shabbat into a true Holy Day? Did we observe the Festivals properly? Have we kept up the example of educating our children by modeling positive Jewish behavior, in learning Torah, reciting Birkat Hamazon, in going to shul to daven with a minyan regularly, etc.?

This brings us to the next level of selfassessment. Are we Nitzavim, “standing” or Vayelech, “moving”? This is a question of whether we have improved in our commitment and grown in our Yiddishkeit or not. Have we moved or stood still? If we do this analysis well, then we come to Ha’azinu where we are “listening” to each other and to our mentors and hope that our children are listening to us and growing from the interactions we have with them. If all of this is done seriously, then the final parsha of the Torah promises us V’zot Habracha. “This will be a true blessing,” for us and our families, our communities and ultimately for the whole of the Jewish people.

When this self-assessment is successful, we then celebrate and move on to Bereishit, a new “beginning.” As the above title suggests, nothing is coincidental in our lives. Even the names and placement of the parshiot of the Torah. G’mar chatima tova. Rabbi Ian Shaffer moved to the US with his family from the UK 20 years ago. He has held the position of Adjunct Professor of Bible at Stern College for Women for the last 19 years. He has also given many classes in both his previous community of Fair Lawn, NJ, as well as in his current community of Cherry Hill, NJ. He has close to 500 shiurim on www.yutorah.org.

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FEATURES

Enclothed Cognition By Tamar Daniel

retty early on in studying for my bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design at Shenkar College, I nearly gave up sewing altogether because each time I completed a garment, the fit was off. Then I learned something that every dressmaker ought to know. The secret to perfectly fitting clothes? Sew a mockup. In couture houses, a mockup is called a toile. In the garment industry, it’s known as a muslin. This is a test version of your sewing project rendered in cheaper fabric. Fashion designers often go through several iterations in their quest for the perfect look. This is a critical piece of the product development process, not just at fashion’s highest echelons but at the most mundane factory level. There’s the forming of the shape, tweaking, iterating, and trying on and on and on. But whereas a garment graduates from being in toile form to its final manifestation, we are all early versions of finished garments - and we remain that way throughout our lives. We come into the world and leave the world naked. In between, we use our

clothes to say who we are. Clothing can be our public face, our herald of change, our safe harbor in a storm. There’s a dashing scene in the Talmud where two men, Reish Lakish and Rabbi Yochanan, meet while swimming in the Jordan river. The unlikely friendship that followed would not have happened had their initial encounter not been unclothed - because one was a great scholar of his time, and the other was a pirate, a thug and a thief. This story is powerful for many reasons, but the most potent take-away for me is that clothing, or the lack thereof, is the great equalizer. When we are stripped of it, the playing field is even and so is our opportunity to dress ourselves to our own advantage. I understood the power of clothing from an early age. My grandmother is a very accomplished seamstress, and earned her living making custom corsets from the age of 15. In those war-time years, she supported herself and her family by helping wealthier women appear slimmer and feel more attractive. From her, I learned about professionalism, pride in one’s work, and the drive

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to see a project through. In Austria during the war, she stepped out the morning after Kristallnacht into the deserted, glass-filled streets to hand deliver corsets to her customers. With my mother’s milk, you could say, I was taught the power of appearance, of reinvention, and of presentation. What we wear affects how we feel about ourselves; and how we feel about ourselves affects the choices we make and our performance Every. Single. Day. Cognitive psychologists from Northwestern University have been examining the psychological and performance-related effects that wearing specific articles of clothing have on the person wearing them. They coined the term “enclothed cognition” for this phenomenon. Enclothed cognition captures the influence that clothes have on the wearer’s psychological patterns. Their studies have shown that we can influence our own thinking and confidence by dressing “The Part”. The world of fashion is there for the taking, and now, more than ever before, there is a democratization of fashion where elevated looks can be constructed on any budget. I turned to fashion design early on because I was entranced by the power of reinventing oneself or someone else. The transformative potential and the end-

less change, the exposure and the coverage. The medium is the most intimate because we wear it on our person, it literally announces our presence to the world and forms a first indelible impression. It creates a lasting memory and can most meaningfully enable or hinder our goals for each day, and over a lifetime. I dress for who I want to be. I dress for my past self who was beguiled and entranced by fashion’s power and my future self who wants to have made an impact and used her voice meaningfully. The courage I wish for all of us is to keep reinventing, refining and posturing. I believe that we should use all the tools available to us to live the life we want. In getting dressed, we all start with an empty canvas and an even playing field. Legendary costume designer Edith Head said, “You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.” I’ve always loved that because it puts the power back in our hands, at any time, to start over. “If you dress for it” means, to me, that as long we keep our eyes on who we set out to be - even if that’s a moving target - we are always an early version of a finished garment to be tested and perfected. Tamar Daniel is a Wardrobe Stylist, Brand Consultant, and Merchandising Specialist. She lives with her family in Merion Station. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

5 Ways Holidays Can Damage Your Teeth The the Green Smoothie Challenge By Dana Kupfer,

By Christina Sciarretta DMD

he holiday very March, it feels like I seaam son pulling myself out ofisa in pit full of swing. The crappy health and way too stores are fully stocked many months ofwith cold, our dark, favoritedamp tradiweather, and you live are here tional foods. Ourifrefrigerators full at of the shore, know that with leftovers andyou ingredients to cook forthe the next holiday. is a wonderful weather weIthave had, thistime yearofisyear, no but it is also a hard time for your waistdifferent! I don’t know about you, but and teeth. My office sees an influx of itline feels to me like it has been raining patients around the holidays with tooth for 87 years. I cannot understand decay, broken fillings, and even mouth how people livesome in year-round rain, injuries. Here are tips to help avoid like Seattle that extra visitor to London. the dentist.We, here in Atlantic County, are beach people. 1. FOOD ANDinDRINKS We don’t thrive gloom and darkCONTAINING EAT ness. We come toSUGAR life in sun, sand, AWAY YOUR ENAMEL and salty air. As such, I always find It is a common custom for people to myself needing a total recharge load their challah slices up on honey from in March. That through rechargeSukkot. comesAlso, in Rosh Hashanah the form of a giant cupdishes full ofare green many traditional holiday filled with sugar – apple awesomeness andcrisp, goodsweet vibes.brisket, chicken, bubbly Moscato and to various red I use the month of March replenwines. It is that time of year when everyish my depleted body with the vita-

one is encouraged to indulge in savory and sweet food and beverages, but that come at a price for the health of your teeth. It is actually not the sugar that directly hurts your teeth. The real damage occurs after you have eaten, when the bacteria in your mouth feed on the sugar and transform it into acid that can cause decaying of your enamel. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to more serious sensitivity and pain.

2. STICKY TREATS CAN DAMAGE EXISTING DENTAL WORK

Candy is almost unavoidable during the holidays. Whether at shul groups, the pekalach bags on Simchat Torah, Sukkah hops and of course every shul has a known “Candy Man” with a Tallis bag laden with sweet treats. Foods like taffys and even dried fruit are among the worst of the worst for your teeth. If possible, avoid these completely if you have a mouthful of fillings and dental work. These treats dramatically increase your risk of tooth decay because they stick to your enamel and get lodged between your teeth. Furthermore, sticky treats can loosen your fillings or make previous dental work fall out completely. That bite of date or piece of candy may be the culprit of a pricey dental visit after the chagim.

mins and nutrients that it is CHIP missing, 3. HARD CANDY CAN due the over-abundance of carbs OR to CRACK TEETH teeth hardest part of andYour sugar andare lackthe of anything green your body. However, tooth enamel does or healthy… anyone else? Come not have the sameEnter regenerative powon, somebody! the Green

ers as our bones. Unlike bones, teeth cannot heal themselves or grow back together once they are broken. Despite their hardness, they are still susceptible to breakage under extreme pressures such as biting down on a popcorn kernel or crunchy challah crust. Teeth that are already weakened due to existing decay, gum disease, or poor hygiene are more likely to break with foods like dark chocolate covered almonds and hard candies.

Sukkah Safety By PJL Staff

ith the holiday of Sukkot around the corner, it is important to review a number of safety tips related to both Sukkot in particular, and Shabbat and Yom Tov in general. The following guidelines were compiled from information previously shared by the Orthodox Union and Maccabee Aish Jewish Fire Prevention.

ITEMS PERTAINING TO THE SUKKAH

Ad 1/4• 4.3 x 5.63

• Extension cords should be new and specifically designed to be used outdoors. Do not overload the wall circuit or the extension cord. Tape October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

•

cords down so that no one trips over them. Heaters – be cautious about using them. Children and animals can easily tip them over. Electric lights – do not place high wattage lights next to schach or anything else flammable, such as decorations. Be careful when bringing hot food and beverages into and out of the Sukkah. It is easy to trip and be scalded. If one lights candles in the Sukkah, do not light them in an area subject to wind where they can be blown over.

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4. USING YOUR TEETH AS A TOOL CAN BE VERY HARMFUL

I cringe when I see someone crack open a pistachio shell with their front teeth or tear off the plastic of frozen ice pops for all the children at dessert time. This habit is harmful in many ways and can easily cause teeth to chip or crack. When we are busy preparing for the holidays it is often tempting to open up that plastic wrapper with your teeth. However, I urge you to use scissors or another everyday tool to accomplish these tasks to avoid costly and time-consuming dental procedures like root canals, crowns, and implants. Additionally, using your teeth as a tool can damage your bite and may even lead to TMJ pain.

5. CHANGES IN ROUTINE MAY MEAN SKIPPING ORAL HYGIENE Smoothie. thatJews blending If you areI have one offound the many travnutrient-rich greens with other eling to family leafy for the holidays, you will want to double check that(yogurt, you packed veggies, fruit, and liquid coyour and milk, floss. etc.) If you do conuttoothbrush water, almond bring my body and mind back to life. It is a total rejuvenation! For 31 days, I commit to consuming a homemade green smoothie every single day. By the end of the month, I almost don’t even recognize myself. My skin is radiant, my hair is shinier, my energy level is sky-high, my mental clarity is improved, my sleep is deep, my wake is easy, I’m usually a bit more trim, I begin to crave healthier foods, and I feel unbelievably freaking awesome. I decided that I just couldn’t keep this magic to myself, so I created The Sciarretta Collection’s Green Smoothie Challenge! I can’t lie, it is a bit scary to see how much change happens, just from nourishing my body properly.

happen to forget to bring your dental care If you’re do a parent liketome, you host know products, not be shy ask your if they extra.eating is just about last thathave healthy and list family to of stay upyear, late onFriends the to-do fortend most the catching up or preparing for the holidays so it’s important for us to take time which may tempt you to skip your daily oral to stop and reset. If you go too long hygiene habits. Remember, the best way to without properyour nutrition, it will during creep avoid damaging oral health back upseason in awful ways,and like chronic this busy is to brush floss often. disease, illness, aches pains, Follow up with a good qualityand mouthwash or merely drinkmoodiness, plenty of water to I’d reduce low energy, etc. like your risk of developing cavities. to encourage you all to join our comIf you have children, do health, not let munity, take small charge of your your exhaustion from the holidays cause and consider taking the challenge neglect in your children’s habits. Parents yourself with your orfor team! need to beor consistent rolefamily models set(Of daily course, as with healthting routines andanything to making their related, understand it is alwaysthe important to dischildren importance of oral hygiene. A teeth cleaning and visit to cuss the benefits and risks with your the dentist is All a great and physician.) you way havetotoprevent do peace, remove all of the residual buildup from love, and good vibes, my friends! the holiday season. What makes a green smoothie? Dr. Dana Kupfer is a General Dentist at Leafy greens of your choiceMerion spinMerion Family Dentistry in Lower ach,treats kale,adults collards, swiss chard, etcbe who and children. She can reached her online at Otherat 484.278.4441. veggies of Visit choice: carrot, www.merionfamilydentistry.com. cucumber, beets, etc

Fruit of your choice (I almost always use bananas and one or more of the following: pineapple, mango, berries, cherries, papaya, avocado, apple, etc Liquid of your choice: yogurt, coconut milk, almond milk, ice, water, etc Extras: chia seed, flax seed, protein powder, hemp seed, cacao powder, etc Here are just a few of the benefits of green smoothies: • Increased energy • Improved digestion • Improved mental clarity and focus • Supports overall health • Improved mood • Glowy skin

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HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Eating Disorder Prevention (part 3 of 3 on Eating Disorders) By Dr. Frani Pollack

ow can we prevent an eating disorder? Or, perhaps a better question: How can we have a healthy relationship with food and with our bodies to minimize the chances of an eating disorder?

1. HEALTHY EATING

Healthy eating -usually including a variety of foods stretched over three meals a day and snacks- can prevent blood sugar variations. Thus, healthy eating includes a combination of: proteins, carbs, fruits, veggies, and fat in most meals, or at least at different points during the day. Ideally, healthy meals are eaten sitting down together as a family, a habit that has been shown to decrease the risk of a variety of problematic behaviors in children/teens including depression and poor grades. And yet, at the same time, Shabbat and holidays, with their accompanying abundance of food, can trigger eating issues. It is helpful if we think through our Shabbat and holiday eating practices, ensuring that they are mixed with other meaningful and important activities- davening, learning, seeing friends, taking walks, playing games, etc. Another important element in warding off an eating disorder is to be more aware of one’s hunger and fullness. Writers, like Geneen Roth, trying to combat binge eating disorder, focus on listening to our bodies’ signs of hunger and fullness, and using them as a guide. Kids tend to be naturally aware of these cues, but by the time they grow up they often lose touch with these indicators. Regaining attunement to these body signals will usually

result in eating regular meals and snacks.

2. BODY ACCEPTANCE

Awareness of different body sizes and appreciation of them is one of the most significant ways of preventing eating disorders. Our culture has trained us to look at thinness as the ideal. What if we worked on seeing a variety of body types as attractive? What if we trained ourselves to comment not only on weight loss as a significant indicator of looking good, but on other areas of attractiveness? And, what if instead of shadchanim encouraging girls to lose weight (when they may be at a weight that is healthy for them), that they encourage boys to be more open to different body sizes? Programs like the Body Project indicate decreases in eating disorders through challenging prevailing assumptions of preferred body types to help girls and women feel positive in the bodies they have.

3. EDUCATION

Education about eating disorders, hunger, and healthy eating should be brought into our homes and into our schools. We need to talk about these issues with our families, discuss articles, critique the media pressure to conform to a particular size, and speak about the prevalence of eating disorders. We should brainstorm about things that can be done in our community to reduce eating disorders, and knowledgeable speakers should be invited to lecture at our schools and in our communities to provide insight into these disorders and their prevention.

4. HOW TO BE IMPERFECT

Perfectionism is one of the primary

Sukkah Safety CONTINUED FROM P. 31

GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR SHABBAT AND YOM TOV

When burning Shabbat or Yom Tov candles: • Use sturdy candleholders, with flameprotective non-combustible (glass or metal) shades or globes. • Place candles at least four feet away from curtains, draperies, blinds, kitchen cabinets and bedding. • Place candles out of the reach of small children and pets. • Never leave burning candles unattended. • If candles are on the table, keep them in the center where they are less likely

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•

to be pulled down by a small child. Secure hair and clothing, such as sleeves or aprons, from the flame when handling candles. Keep candles, matches and lighters, including lit Yahrzeit candles, out of the reach of children. When lighting multiple Shabbat or Yom Tov candles, families need to be aware of the high amount of heat the candles generate. Create a safe place in the house where multiple candles can be lit. When cooking: Set appliances back on counter to avoid accidental burns and spills.

causes of eating disorders. The ideal woman is applauded: perfect house, kids, meals, and on top of all that, Mom is thin. What if we could tolerate more vulnerability, imperfection, and our own and others’ limitations? Dr. Brene Brown, one of the leading researchers and speakers on vulnerability, asserts that people who are vulnerable seem to be the happiest and most whole-hearted individuals. Brown says, “staying vulnerable is a risk we have to take if we want to experience connection.” Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable moves us away from a perfect ideal to a more human one.

they are now. Developing our natural gifts and interests can also give people a sense of pride and accomplishment. Yet, it is not always what someone accomplishes externally, but who they are that seems to raise confidence. What’s most important in developing self-esteem may be knowing that one is a good friend, a thoughtful daughter, or alternatively through undertaking meaningful action in the world. Feeling a strong sense of “self” prevents people from using weight and size as the only measures of self-worth.

5. THE IMPORTANCE OF EMOTIONS

We all need it, but how do we work on it ourselves as well as with our kids? Healthy self-esteem consists of people feeling accepted and valued for who

Since a false sense of meaning can come from an eating disorder, we need to be mindful of our own and our children’s relationship with Judaism. Are we/they connected in a positive way? Are there stumbling blocks that may prevent a more meaningful connection? Is there someone we can speak to if we need help in this area? Prevention takes time and work and perhaps runs against the current of our natural inclinations. However, the work that we do on ourselves and our families does effect change, and ultimately creates a ripple effect in our communities. Ultimately, all of these seven practices can lead to a greater fulfillment of venishmartem me’od et nafshoteichem. Frani Pollack is a licensed Social Worker and Psychologist with a private practice at Bala Child & Family Associates. She teaches at the University of Pennsylvania, the Council for Relationships, and the Home-Based Family Program. Dr. Pollack speaks and writes regularly on a range of psychological topics.

• Designate ovens, stoves and heat containing appliances as a “No Go Zone” for children. • Keep hands, hair and sleeves away from open flames. • Position the blech so heat can escape from all sides without heating walls,

cabinets and counters. • Never cover oven vents with aluminum foil. • Keep pot handles turned inward and away from the edge of the stove. • Never move pots of boiling hot liquids while uncovered. • Use extra caution when carrying hot food around children. • Treat burns immediately by cooling with cold water and call your local emergency department. • Never put water on a grease fire. Use a fire extinguisher and call the fire department emergency number. When using electrical timers: • Do not overload electrical timers/outlets and only use timers intended and rated for desired use.

Understanding and feeling emotions, and then knowing what to do about them are essential components in prevention. When we have an upsetting experience food could be the first “go-to” to soothe ourselves. Suppressing feelings using food, purging, or food restrictions are all behaviors that occur in eating disorders. Cultivating comfort with our feelings, understanding them, and acting appropriately in response to those emotions all contribute to the antidote. In his book, Raising an Emotionally Intelligent Child, Dr. John Gottman stresses the importance of parents helping their children name their feelings, listening empathically, and then aiding them in problemsolving.

6. SELF-ESTEEM

7. SPIRITUALITY

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

HOUSE TO HOME ‘Mocha Crème’ Launches at Mocha Bleu Courtesy of House of Kosher

By Elizabeth Kratz

Recipe by Esther Chana

Schechter resh baked pastries, new organic house coffees, croisAPPLE-POMEGRANATE sants and muffins, not to menCOBBLER WITH crepes, VANILLA tion gelato- topped smoothVODKA ICE CREAM iesThere and milkshakes, and two types is nothing more enjoyable of grabandgo savory then sitting out in your sandwiches, sukkah on a are allnight part of Mocha Crème, new chilly with friends and afamily, meeting place now at Moeating delicious warmdebuting cobbler and ice cream. This dessert encompasses flacha Bleu. vors and new aromas that appeal to everyThe counter-purchase ofone. I served it with ferings are perfecthomemade to samplevanilla with vodka ice cream but feel free to go the a friend while having morning cofsimple route and buy some store bought fee orice ancream. afternoon pareve Enjoy!treat with the kids; the ambiance is as comfortable at 7:30 in the morning as it is Ingredients juiceis open six at 210cups p.m..pomegranate Mocha Crème 5 granny smith apples, days a week and on motzei peeled, Shabhalved, slicedcomparably thinly bat in cored, winter.and Priced to 1 tbsp. cinnamon other coffee options in the neigh1 cup sugar, divided and more for borhood, Mocha Crème is launchgarnish ing2 1/4 as cups Mocha Bleu turns years all-purpose flour,10 divided 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 2 tsp. baking powder 1 stick cold unsalted margarine 1 cup cream, plus more for brushing House of Kosher pomegranate seeds, for garnish

old. A communal table for families, friends or small group meetings is in the new Mocha Crème area, perfect for high school students coming in for a quick gelato or sandwich. The couches and small tables just next to the coffee area are quiet in the morning and perfect for friendmeetups after carpool and business meetings, with coffee and muffins. There is ample space for children in strollers and free wifi. With a new shiny white woodand- chrome Frigomecccanica ‘jewelry- style’ pastry case, custom-designed in Italy and intended for everything to be seen easily from eye-level, Mocha Bleu’s owner Naftali Abenaim is bringing his most exciting dessert vanilla vodka ice out cream and coffee ideas into the open. confectioners sugar for garnish Temperature controlled to just the right degree, Abenaim explained Directions that he could dotomore and different 1. Preheat oven 375 degrees. Spray

a few mini cast iron skillets (House of Kosher will be carrying kosher cast iron in the next few weeks) with non-stick cooking spray. If you don’t have mini cast iron skillets use an 8 x 8 baking dish and coat with a non-stick cooking spray. 2. Add the pomegranate juice to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Boil the juice for about 15 minute or until reduced to about 1/3 cup. 3. While the juice boils combine apples, cinnamon, 3/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup flour, and 1/2 tsp salt. Pour in the pomegranate juice and fold to combine. Take the apple mixture and divide it between the mini skillets. 4. In a large bowl, combine remaining 2 cups of flour, 1/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt. Next, add the margarine and cut the margarine into the dry ingredients. Once the mixture resembles small crumbs, stir in the cream. Stir until well combined. 5. Take some of the topping and divide it evenly between all the apple filling. Using a pastry brush, brush some of the cream on top and sprinkle with sugar. Repeat process until all the tops have been coated. 6. Bake the cobbler for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish tops with pomegranate seeds, ice cream, and confectioners sugar. Serve and enjoy!

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October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

desserts with a higher level dessert case. Just in time to enjoy along with the new desserts, Mocha Bleu is also debuting a line of house coffees from Jim’s Organic. While Nespresso cappuccino, espresso and other Italian coffee drinks are still available, Jim’s Organic, a local New Jersey company that sources beans from all over the world, developed a smooth blend called Papua New Guinea just for Mocha Bleu. Mocha Bleu’s new iced house coffee and decaf coffee is anVANILLA ICE Nothings. other blend,VODKA called Sweet CREAM “We developed this roast with them to Ingredients get it just right. It’s smoother and sweeter than your average,” Abe16 oz. whip 4 eggs 2/3 cup sugar 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 1/4 vanilla vodka

Directions 1. Beat the whip with an electric mixer. 2. Add in the eggs one at a time until completely combined. Add in sugar and vanilla. 3. Remove bowl from mixer and slowly combine the vanilla vodka. Pour into a container and cover. Freeze for 6 hours or overnight.

naim said. Chalav yisrael Italian gelato, made once a week by an Italian chef, headlines the new menu offerings. The difference between ice cream and gelato is that gelato generally contains heavy cream rather BBQ SHREDDED CHICKEN than milk as the majority of its base, SQUARES giving it a higher fat content and a The perfect appetizer needs to apmoreboth decadent, creamy taste. “It’s peal in presentation, creativity, and best to just close your eyes and of course taste. This is super simple and

has those perfect flavors that satisfy! The tangy chicken combined with that ever so refreshing slaw is the perfect way to start off any Yom Tov meal. Get ready to impress! Ingredients 2-3 lbs. chicken breast 2-3 cups chicken stock 1/2 cup BBQ sauce 1 bag purple cabbage 2 carrots, julienned 3 apples, julienned 1/2 cup mayonnaise 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp. honey salt to taste 1 box puff pastry squares Directions 1. In an instant pot place chicken, stock and BBQ sauce and set on the pressure cooker mode for 10 minutes. 2. Meanwhile combine your cabbage, carrots, and apples. 3. In a separate bowl combine mayonnaise, vinegar, and honey. Adjust dressing to taste if you like your slaw sweeter. 4. Put puff pastry squares in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes until they are puffy and golden. 5. Combine veggies and dressing. 6. Assembly: top each square with some lettuce, pulled chicken, and slaw. Drizzle with some extra BBQ sauce and some fresh parsley if desired.

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FOOD & DINING

Stock Market

Serve and garnish with green onion.

By Jonathan Chodosh

BEEF AND BARLEY

opefully, by the time you are holding this article in your hands, the fall winds will be blowing, even though at the time of this writing the temperature is pushing 90 degrees. Once the cold arrives, in addition to lattes and tea, you’ll probably still want to grab something warm to eat and drink. So, grab your favorite mug/bowl/cup and hold tight. A good stock is the secret to so many other recipes. What makes a homemade stock different from the shelf stable variety you can find at the store? How do you know whether to use chicken or vegetable stock? Where does fish stock come in? Does it? Do you have all of the ingredients? Will it take long to cook? Do I feel like doing all that chopping? A broth is the liquid left when meat is simmered in water. Stock is the liquid left when bones are simmering in water. Which one do I want for my soups? Broths might do in a pinch, but a good homemade stock will make your soup gain a few levels of awesome, not to mention your Yom Tov brisket and chicken fricassee. Stocks have a much richer flavor and feel heartier than broths. A good stock has a rounded sensation and full texture as you eat it. That is from the collagen extracted from the bones as they are simmered. And yes, they take a while to build, but trust me, it’s well worth the wait. Soups are one of the most cost-effective dishes to make but they still aren’t free. Like the old children’s book Stone Soup, there are many ingredients necessary to make an amazing soup. The majority of your soup will be the clear brothy part. The bits and pieces are what we will call ‘garnish.’ The garnish will flavor the brothy part but if you cook it all together you will end up with very overcooked garnish and a fairly tasty broth, but we can do so much better. Try making a stock or two and see how you can turn the cheapest bits of bones into the finest course for your Shabbos feast.

BASIC (BUT EPIC) CHICKEN STOCK

rot

8-12 qts. of cold water 4 lbs. chicken bones ½-1 cup white wine 2 tbs. fresh lemon/lime juice 2 tsp. vinegar Vegetable options: onion, celery, car-

Put all ingredients in a stock pot. Heat on medium-high heat until it just breaks

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6 qts. beef stock 1 onion 3 stalks celery 1lb. mushrooms 1 tbs. olive oil 1 bay leaf ¼ tsp. thyme cubed beef chuck ½ cup barley salt Dice onion and celery. Slice mushrooms. Saute vegetables, cubed beef and 1 tbs. salt in the bottom of a soup pot with olive oil. Add stock, barley, bay leaf and thyme. Cook for 2+ hours until the meat is tender. Salt to taste and enjoy.

BOUILLABAISSE (FRENCH FISH SOUP)

a boil and then reduce to a bear boil. You should see small individual bubbles a few times a minute. That is enough heat. Let cook for 3-4 hours. At that point you will have extracted all that the bones can give. *Skimming: some people swear skimming makes clear broth. I don’t bother, but if you do it will take 5-10 minutes. Once simmering wait for a foamy scum to form on the surface of the broth. Skim it off with a spoon.

BEEF STOCK

8-12 qts. of cold water 4 lbs. beef bones (meat not necessary) 16 oz. can tomato paste Vegetable options: onion, celery, carrot, mushroom Put oven on low broil. Coat bones in tomato paste. Broil 10 minutes each

side. They should be browned and a little crusty. Remove and put in a stock pot and fill with cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 6-10 hours.

STOCK TO SOUP TRANSFORMATIONS EGG DROP SOUP

chicken stock 3 tbs. cornstarch ½ cup water 1 egg salt green onion Bring chicken stock to a rolling boil. In a bowl, mix 3 tbs. cornstarch and ½ cup water. Drizzle mix into the stock and return back to a boil. Turn off the stove. Scramble an egg in a dish and drizzle into the soup in two or three additions and mix gently with a wooden spoon. Salt to taste.

Fish Stock 3 lbs. boney fish bones *not salmon 2 cups white wine ½ bunch parsley ½ tsp. thyme 1 bay leaf 4 qts. water Garnish 1 lb. salmon fillet cubed 1 lb. mild white fish (such as snapper) cubed 1 large onion 1 head fennel 2 lbs. potatoes 8 cloves garlic 2 tomatoes ¼ tsp. cayenne 2 tsp. paprika 1 pinch saffron 1 cup olive oil salt *Salmon is too oily to make a pleasant stock. A mild white fish makes a much better stock. To make the stock, simmer for 1+ hours. Fish bones don’t need any more time than that. Remove bones and parsley. You have just made a quick fish fumet. To assemble the soup dice all the vegetables and add them and the spices to the stock. Cook for 30 minutes until they are all soft. Before serving, add cubed fish and bring to a hard boil. Once at a full boil, drizzle in the full cup of olive oil and continue to boil for 3-5 min. Serve with a piece of crusty toast. Jonathan Chodosh is a food scientist and the owner of Teavon Food Group. You can find his vegan products (gelato, tapas salads, and dips) at Jack Levin’s Wine Store, or order by reaching him directly at jonathan@teavonfood.com. Follow him on social media @nerdydadfoods and @teavonfoodgroup. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

FOOD & DINING Recipes From The Rebbetzin

Sensational Sukkot and Simchat Torah Holiday Recipes 5780/2019 By Rebbetzin Deborah Epstein Chag HaSukkot (the festival of Tabernacles) is one of the three pilgrimage festivals, along with the holidays of Pesach and Shavuot. Yom Tov begins with candle lighting in the sukkah, on Sunday, October 13, eighteen minutes prior to sundown. The eight-day holiday concludes with the celebration of Simchat Torah on October 20. Sukkot is a time of great joy! During the time period of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem, the Simchat Beit Hashoayvah (Water Libation Ceremony) was performed. The Talmud states that to witness this sight was incomparable to any other joy in the entire world. Jews danced and sang with great exuberance in honor of the holiday. There are many mitzvot that are unique to Sukkot. We recite a blessing each day on the Four Species (the lulav, etrog, hadasim, and aravot), throughout the entire week. The blessing of shehechiyanu, is said only on the first day, along with the blessing of al netilat lulav. Furthermore, we dwell in the sukkah, (some people even sleep in a sukkah) all week long. We recite the blessing leyshaiv basukkah each time we eat in the sukkah. Additionally, every evening we welcome one of the seven Ushpizin – biblical guests, into the sukkah. Avraham, Yitzchak, Yaakov, Moshe, Aharon, Yosef, and David. Each of the seven personalities reflect a unique dimension of God’s interaction with the world. On Sukkot we dress in our finest attire, as we enjoy meat, wine, and other delicacies. Family and friends share this weeklong joy in the sukkah, together. I am presenting some unique recipes to enhance your upcoming holiday celebration. My best wishes for a happy, healthy, and sweet New Year, 5780, filled with blessings, peace, and success, to all of the children of Israel! Chag sameach!

CHAMPAGNE CHICKEN CUTLETS WITH BLACK RICE

1lb. chicken cutlets, thinly sliced 1 cup kosher champagne, divided 1 sprig fresh thyme, minced 1 sprig fresh rosemary, chopped 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1 cup black rice Cook black rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool. Place chickOctober 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

en cutlet in between two pieces of wax paper. Pound chicken cutlets with a mallet (or simply use a can of beans!) Place chicken cutlets into a zipper sealed bag, together with a half cup of champagne, thyme, rosemary, and garlic. Shake well. Marinate for four hours, or overnight. Remove chicken cutlets from marinade. Discard marinade. Place chicken cutlets onto a plate and add 2 tbsp. of black rice in the center. Roll chicken cutlet, seam side down, and secure with a toothpick. Repeat until all chicken cutlets have been filled. Place a half cup of champagne onto the bottom of a large roasting pan. Place chicken cutlets into pan, covered with aluminum foil, then into a preheated oven at 350 degrees for approximately fifteen minutes. Remove aluminum foil, and broil for an additional five minutes. Serves 4.

TRADITIONAL TZIMMES PUFFS WITH PECAN PRALINE

1 lb. puff pastry dough 4 medium, long, sweet potatoes, peeled, and sliced horizontally ½ cup baby carrots 1 cup craisins 5 tbsp. honey 4 tbsp. canola oil 2 tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. nutmeg 2 tbsp. pure vanilla 2 tbsp. rum extract Pecan Praline 1 cup pecans ½ cup brown sugar 1 tbsp. pure vanilla 4 tbsp. canola oil Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, combine all of the ingredients for Pecan Praline, mixing together well. Place onto a cookie sheet, lined with parchment paper. Roast Pecan Praline for 5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside. Place all of the above ingredients for Tzimmes (excluding puff pastry) into a medium sized bowl, mixing together

well. Place onto a roasting pan, lined with parchment paper. Bake for twenty minutes, covered with aluminum foil. Remove from oven and set aside to cool. Cut puff pastry into squares. Put one puff pastry square into each muffin pan compartment. Place 2 tbsp. of cooled Tzimmes into each square of dough. Repeat process until all squares of puff pastry have been used. Cook in preheated oven at 400 degrees for 15 minutes, until puff pastry is golden brown. Remove from oven. Top with Pecan Praline. Serves 12.

Balsamic Vinaigrette ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 cloves garlic, peeled, and minced 4 tbsp. sugar sea salt and black pepper to taste In a small bowl, whisk together all of the above ingredients. Serves 6.

ROMAINE WITH HONEY GLAZED GRILLED APPLES AND BALSAMIC VINAIGRETTE

2 -8 oz. containers plain pareve cream cheese ¾ cup sugar 3 eggs 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 1 tbsp. lemon juice Crust 2 cups graham cracker crumbs ½ cup canola oil In a small bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and oil, and press crust into the bottom and sides of a spring-form pan. No need to bake this crust before adding the cheesecake filling. Filling Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium sized bowl, mix together all of the ingredients for the cream cheese filling. Place filling on top of crust. Bake for 25 minutes, or until set. Remove from oven and cool. Refrigerate for several hours before serving. Pomegranate Glaze 1 cup confectioners sugar 2 tbsp. canola oil 3 tbsp. pomegranate juice In a small bowl, mix together all of the above ingredients. Drizzle onto cooled cake. Place in refrigerator for fifteen minutes until glaze has hardened. Serves 10-12. Deborah Epstein is the Rebbetzin of Congregation Sons of Israel, Cherry Hill, New Jersey. She is also the Director of the Mikvah Ohel Leah, in Cherry Hill. She is a celebrated chef, and has been a recipe columnist and developer for over a decade.

2 romaine hearts, chopped 2 Roma apples, peeled, sliced and grilled* (recipe follows) ½ cup roasted walnut halves* (recipe follows) 1 red onion, peeled, and chopped 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and cubed 1 can hearts of palm, drained, and sliced 2 Persian cucumbers, chopped 1 mango, peeled, pitted and cubed In a medium sized bowl, combine romaine, onion, hearts of palm and cucumbers. Add apples, walnuts, avocado and mango. Toss together. Season the salad with balsamic vinaigrette. Serve immediately.

HONEY GLAZED GRILLED APPLES

Coat apples with 2 tbsp. honey using a pastry brush, in order to form a glaze. Grill on a preheated outdoor barbeque for 5 minutes, until golden. Remove from barbeque, and set aside to cool. Roasted Walnuts Place walnut halves onto a roasting pan, coated with oil spray. Roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees for 4-5 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

PERFECTLY PAREVE CHEESECAKE WITH POMEGRANATE GLAZE

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FUN CORNER

The Kosher Crossword By Yoni Glatt

CLASSIC BIBLICAL ROCK koshercrosswords@gmail.com Difficulty Level: Manageable 1

21 25

49 54

ACROSS 1. Major artery 6. Fiddler on the reef? 10. Calc. prerequisite, often 14. Tool for climbing Everest 15. “Aladdin” character played by Gilbert Godfried 16. Judaism doesn’t believe in it 17. The Allman Brothers hit about Cain? 19. “Enchanted” girl in a 2004 film 20. Advil alternative 21. Sillier 23. Grimm beast 25. Simon and Garfunkel’s “I ___ Rock” 27. Dame introducer, in Paris? 28. Creedence Clearwater Revival hit about Isaac? 32. Off kilter 33. “Bad” cholesterol letters 34. “___ Morris is Trash” (Funny or Die series) 38. Whillikers or whiz lead-in 39. Aerosmith hit about Joseph? 43. Enthusiastic reply to “Wanna?” 44. Word with “while,” old-style 46. Sequitur or stop starter 47. Equally irate 49. Steppenwolf hit about Esau?

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48. Inaugurated 50. 1936 National League homer champ Mel 51. “10 Items ___” (checkout sign) 52. A “god” defeated by Elijah 53. Analysis of an ore 54. What unborn babies are in? 55. Some change 59. Clapton who rocks 60. ‘20s art style 62. Give a push to 65. King-size or twin 66. One of eight Eng. kings 67. “Viva ___ Vegas!” Answers on page 41

57 61

22. Yoko’s surname 23. 18 or 21, usually 24. “Andy Griffith” character Pyle 26. The capital of Georgia 29. A NIS is measured against it, often 30. Oilers, on NHL scoreboards 31. ___-mo (replay technique) 35. Praiseworthy 36. Barbecue briquettes 37. “Buddy-boy” alternative 40. G.I. time off, informally 41. 1 billion years, in astronomy 42. “No way, laddie!” 45. The capital of Georgia

YONI GLATT’S

33 40

27 30

32 39

53. Accountant’s review 56. Coach Parseghian of 27-Across 57. Estimating words 58. Wooden in manner 61. First Lady between Hillary and Michelle 63. Weigh station rig 64. David Bowie hit about Absalom? 68. False god of war 69. Summertime snack 70. Late comic great Radner 71. Late musical great Piamenta 72. Certain groundfish 73. Source for the latest celebrity info. DOWN 1. It constantly goes into our bodies 2. Andean stew veggie 3. Makes like Abraham with Keturah 4. Items for Moses or Jobs 5. Automobile rod 6. Stanley Kubrick’s art 7. One replaced Isaac 8. Amalekite king slain by Samuel 9. Irish singer born Paul Hewson 10. Winkler’s shark-jumping sitcom character 11. Blazing again, as a fire 12. In worse health 13. Highway light hazard 18. Lendl with eight Grand Slam wins

JEWISH SPELLING BEE How many common words of 5 or more letters can you spell using the letters in the hive? Every answer must use the center letter at least once. Letters may be reused in a word. At least one word will use all 7 letters and have a direct Jewish connection. Proper names and hyphenated words are not allowed. Score 1 point for each answer, and 3 points for a Jewish related word that uses all 7 letters. Rating: 6=Good; 8= Excellent; 10= Genius

Answers on page 41 October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

SCHOOLS Kosloff Torah Academy (KTA)

Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky, shlita, spoke to the student body at KTA’s annual Yimei Ratzon address. He described the chesed of Hashem toward us and opened the theme of our Yom Iyun: Melech, Crowning Our King.

Mesivta High School of Greater Philadelphia

KTA does its utmost to ensure a smooth transition into the new world of High School for its ninth graders. Orientation for the freshman parent body gave the teachers and faculty a platform in which to partner with parents, educate and enlighten them on what the expectations of high school are, as well as to how to best guide and assist their freshman and help make it a meaningful and growth-oriented year.

Kohelet Yeshiva Lab School (KYLS)

Mr. Imaizumi teaching his physics class.

Rabbi Avraham Steinberg, the Rosh Mesivta, with his shiur.

Shlomo Robbins blowing shofar.

Mesivta Yesodei Yisroel of Elkins Park

Students enjoyed a mix of intense learning and intense joy in Morah Aviya’s Chumash class.

2nd and 3rd graders got to watch as the rain barrel was installed in their Grow Torah Garden.

Gan Chabad of the Main Line

Students from Mesivta Yesodei Yisroel visited Hagaon Harav Shmuel Kamenetsky, shlita, and Hagoan Harav Sholom Kamenetsky, shlita. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Parents had a great time at Gan Chabad’s back to school night event, where they came to view the classrooms, speak with teachers, and have a wine and cheese social hour while they decorated their child’s Shabbos bag.

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SCHOOLS Politz Hebrew Academy

Politz Day School of Cherry Hill

Rabbi Morgenbesser discussed the many different sounds that we blow with the shofar to his first-grade class. As he practiced, the boys followed along. It was very exciting for the boys when Rabbi Morgenbesser used the huge spiraled shofar which was borrowed from the Menahel.

Politz Day School had a Yom Iyun for middle school students with local Rabbis who taught them about ideas in Tefilla. Rabbi Yitzchok Kahan, Rabbi Mordechai Snyder and Rabbi Ephraim Epstein shared insights with our students to inspire them during the Aseret Yemei Teshuva.

Caskey Torah Academy (CTA)

Kohelet Yeshiva Middle School (KYMS)

ECP students enjoying the sensory bin in their classroom.

Mazel Tov! In preparation for the upcoming Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, the 6th grade girls and 7th grade boys each enjoyed a “Mock Bat/Bar Mitzvah.” This event was a simulation of a real simcha, as they might celebrate with their friends. The goal of these evenings was to teach, model, and practice Derech Eretz at a simcha. After an opening message, the students played an entertaining, interactive game about Bar/Bat Mitzvah etiquette, and then practiced their skills in real-time at the ‘kiddush.’ The evenings continued with a meal, speeches, and of course, instructional dancing!

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KYMS students and people living with disabilities at JFCS’ Baking with a Mission program. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

SCHOOLS Kohelet Yeshiva High School (KYHS)

Boys in Ms. Glick’s Forensic Science class used their crime scene analysis skills to measure evidence in several mini “crime scenes.”

KYHS sweet treats: The Bnot Sherut offered sweet treats to high school Dr. Andrew Paris, President of the Kohelet Yeshiva Board of Directors, gave the students before Rosh Hashana for a Friday Dvar Torah on the Parsha to the high school students. sweet new year.

Abrams Hebrew Academy

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Cheder Chabad

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RTS

A Yeshiva Day School Basketball League? Why Not? By Rabbi Ira Budow

really enjoyed reading the inaugural edition of the Philadelphia Jewish Link. Truly, it is a Jewish newspaper in all facets. However, I felt something was lacking in the first issue - a sports section. What is a newspaper without a sports section? Jews love their sports. There are many stadiums around the United States that offer a wide variety of kosher food. My vote for the total kosher experience is Yankee Stadium where they actually have a catering hall inside the stadium. Full disclosureI am not a Yankee fan. Historically, I believe the sport that has boasted the greatest number of Jews is basketball. I will give you a few proofs to this assumption. The NBA started in 1946. Oscar Benjamin “Ossie” Schectman of the New York Knickerbockers scored the first basket of the NBA. Ossie was a New York Jew. The greatest basketball dynasty of the 20th century was the Boston Celtics. The coach and general manager was Arnold Jacob “Red” Auerbach. Red won 16 NBA titles during his 29-year career in the NBA. Sixteen championships accumulated by one person is a record for the NBA. Red Auerbach was a Jewish man from Brooklyn. Growing up my favorite team was the New York Knickerbockers. The ’70 and ’73 championship teams of the Knicks were wonderful to watch. The Knicks defined how a team should play as players

Rabbi Budow with his team of ‘79 were always looking to pass the ball. Their coach was William “Red” Holzman, a Jew from Queens, New York. If you ever go to Madison Square Garden and look up at the rafters you will see a banner in honor of Red Holzman. The number 613 is on the banner representing Red’s victories as a coach. 613! As Jews we know that we have 613 mitzvot. Red Holzman’s victory totals 613, coincidence? Yardley, Pennsylvania is next to Trenton, New Jersey, and Abrams Hebrew Academy’s origin was in Trenton. Tal Brody was born in Trenton and was a basketball star at Trenton High School and University

of Illinois. Tal was drafted number 13 by the Baltimore Bullets. Tal decided instead of playing for the Bullets to accept a request from Moshe Dayan to play basketball in Israel. Tal Brody is a legend in basketball until this day and I am very lucky to call Tal a friend. Every year when our school visits Israel our students are guests of Tal at a Maccabi-Tel Aviv game. It is a real highlight of the trip for our students who attend the game. So, what is the purpose of this article? I’m not trying to give you a history of Jews who played basketball. My purpose is to propose a Jewish basketball league

Mesivta Soccer

The Mesivta High School of Greater Philadelphia’s soccer team earned a 1-0 victory against Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy on Sunday, October 6. Yonah Erlbaum scored for Mesivta. Photo credit: Dr. David Stein

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among our day schools: Barrack, Politz Hebrew Academy, Politz Cherry Hill, Kellman Brown, Kohelet, Abrams and Caskey Torah Academy. We could make an active league for our students, both boys and girls, with a ten-game regular season schedule and additional playoff games. It would be a wonderful Jewish experience for all. I know that there might be some halachic issues for the schools, but we should try to make accommodations so that everyone could participate. Presently, many schools play against non-Jewish schools, not part of any league. Having a Jewish league would bring a renewed sense of excitement and pride for all of the schools. It would also level the playing field for our students as our teams would have a more balanced degree of competition. How do I know? Truth be told, I was a coach for the Jewish Educational Center (JEC, located in Elizabeth, New Jersey) basketball teams for boys and girls at the high school level. Forty years ago, my boys’ team won the last championship for JEC. Last year I had a reunion with guys from that team and the memory of our 1979 winning season still burns bright within us all. Shouldn’t we provide the same memories for our youth? Rabbi Budow has been the Head of School at Abrams Hebrew Academy for 39 years. One of his greatest accomplishments has been taking 700 people to visit Israel. His favorite pastime is seeing his grandchildren grow up.

Narberth Soccer

Coach Josh Katz giving pointers to Narberth Soccer’s “Orange Team,” which is made up of 3rd and 4th graders from Caskey Torah Academy and Kohelet Yeshiva Lab School. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

RTS

Caskey Torah Academy Soccer

he boys soccer team from Caskey Torah Academy (CTA) traveled to Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (JBHA) on Sunday morning, October 6, and displayed a solid effort in a 3-1 loss to the home team. Shmuel Reizel scored for CTA.

Coach Kenny Myers speaks to his CTA boys soccer team.

KYMS and KYHS Soccer

Solution to crossword puzzle from page 36: 1

O R C A

E A

O G R

O R M

T A

M B 20

L T S

U T E

O R

S L

M O N

R 61

D E

B A

O D

K I

M A

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57 62

E W

R E

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19 22

O N N

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G O O

56 59

S D

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E 29

49 53

E W S

JEWISH SPELLING BEE ANSWERS (FROM PAGE 36):

Jewish Answer-YAPCHIK. Here is a list of some common words (Yes, we know there are more words in the dictionary that can work, but these words are common to today’s vernacular)- ACACIA, CHAPPY, HACKY (sack), HAPPY, KAYAK, KAPPA, KHAKI, PAPACY, PAPAYA, YAPPY. Questions/comments/complimentsemail Yoni at koshercrosswords@gmail.com October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

Credit: Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl

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Want to Stage Your Home for a Quick Sale? By Anne Goldberg

emember the last time you visited a new home development? How did you feel touring the model? Usually, pleasant memories come to mind about how nice the home looked. That’s because it was “showcased” properly. Home showcasing or staging is not about remodeling, fixing up, or making a home look sterile. Instead, it focuses on simple steps to make a home look like a model without spending a lot of money. The secret is setting the stage, which helps potential buyers imagine themselves and their families at home in your “home for sale.”

STRIP DOWN AND BUILD UP

The first step is to clear the set. Remove extraneous furniture, decorations, pictures, etc. Take each room down to its most basic form, opening up the living space as much as possible. Then build it back up to the way you want it to look, as simple as possible and without clutter. Make the strip down process easier by stowing packed boxes in a storage area like the garage, or by renting a storage space to hold extra furnishings while your

home is on the market. In essence- pack up early. This is a great opportunity to declutter and purge the items you have no intention of keeping or moving.

PROPS

When building the set, try to make each room tell a story. Help potential

buyers see themselves in each room. A clever arrangement of props will make it easy for buyers to imagine preparing a feast in the kitchen, relaxing in the den, cozying up with a book by the fireplace, enjoying a cup of coffee in the garden, etc.

LIGHTING

Well-lit rooms give a larger appearance. Make sure each lamp has the highest-watt bulb it is rated for. If a large living room has only one lamp, add another. Open curtains and hang mirrors. When it’s being shown, the home should be bright. Good lighting makes your home appear as if it’s on center stage.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Ask what buyers are looking for in your community. What are they saying about the homes they didn’t buy? And what is it about the homes that are selling that make them in-demand? By determining your ideal target buyer, you will better understand how to market

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Almost as important as how a home looks is how it smells. Buyers are assessing a home with all of their senses, and the sense of smell should not be overlooked. Ask a close friend to walk through your home -objectively- and take a whiff here and there. Are there any offensive odors? Is it too perfumy? Too drab? Stale? Musty? Are there pet odors (which should be fixed and not covered up)? What can aromatherapy do to impress potential buyers? When it comes time to sell your home, you’ll want to work with a real estate professional who knows all aspects of the selling process - including showcasing. Anne Goldberg is a Realtor with Keller Williams Main Line Realty. She can be reached at: annegoldberg@kw.com

ANNE GOLDBERG, REALTOR Mobile: 973-985-9053 Office: 610-520-0100

Email: annegoldberg@kw.com Website: annegoldberg.kw.com

Making Realty Dreams Reality

Connect with active home buyers and sellers from our dynamic, growing community.

AROMATHERAPY

Are you, or someone you know, looking to buy or sell a home or invest in real estate on the Main Line or greater Philadelphia? I’d be happy to help. Give me a call!

ARE YOU A GROWTH-MINDED REAL ESTATE AGENT? To be included in our real estate section or for more information, please call 484-424-5200 or email publisher@phillyjewishlink.com

your home. Your realtor’s experience in your specific neighborhood can help answer all these questions and more.

720 W. Lancaster Ave Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 Each office is individually owned and operated.

It was a pleasure working with Anne. She truly cared about us finding the home that was right for us... and she did! She is very knowledgeable about all the aspects of buying a home and knows this market well. October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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Four Home Fix-Ups for Fall vinyl or fiber cement siding, PVC trim board and more.

(BPT)

ith cooler days and temperate weather, fall is a good time to get outdoors and tackle some larger home projects, as well as prep your home for winter. “Cold weather can wreak havoc on your house, leaving you with a long list of repairs,” said Cathy McHugh, director, brand management at DAP. “It’s important to take preventative action now so you can enjoy the coming weather change, rather than making costly repairs later.” Don’t know where to start? Here are the top four “must-do” repairs from the experts at DAP.

REFRESH AROUND WINDOWS AND DOORS

Temperature fluctuations and weather extremes can cause cracks and crumbling in sealants around windows and doors. The resulting gaps allow air to creep inside, putting your energy bills on overdrive. In addition, if current sealant has any dirt build-up, the hot and humid weather of summer can foster mold and mildew. Protect your home and give

INSPECT YOUR ROOF

your windows and doors a refresh and waterproof seal that stands up to the elements by applying a new exterior sealant like Dynaflex Ultra Advanced Exterior Sealant that will provide long-lasting allweather, waterproof protection, resisting dirt build-up and water absorption. It also comes with a lifetime mold-, mildew- and algae-resistant guarantee. It’s easy to apply and is paint-ready in just an hour, allowing you to quickly repair problem areas.

REPAIR IMPERFECTIONS AND SURFACE DAMAGE

It’s important to take a walk around your property and inspect your home and outdoor living areas for surface damage issues caused by hail, wind and heavy rain. Common damage includes cracks in sidewalks and driveways, as well as chips in siding. Address problem areas like these with an exterior filler, which

can fill in exposed, vulnerable areas and prevent further damage. To save time and money, choose a multipurpose filler designed specifically for exterior repairs like Platinum Patch Advanced Exterior Filler, formulated with innovative Weather MaxTechnology for long-lasting, all weather protection. The mold-, mildew- and algae-resistant formula creates a durable bond that prevents discoloration, as well as cracking and crumbling over time. It is sandable and paintable and offers superior adhesion to porous and non-porous building materials such as brick, concrete, metal, composite or wood decks,

Start by making a simple visual inspection of your roof. Before hauling out the ladder, use binoculars or zoom in with a smartphone camera to spot obvious damage. If your roof has a relatively flat surface and you feel comfortable on a ladder, then go up for a closer look. Shingles that are cracked, buckled, loose or are missing granules need to be replaced. And of course, while you’re up there, be sure to clear any clogged gutters to prevent potential water damage.

PREPARE YOUR FURNACE FOR FALL

Now is the time to prepare your furnace for fall. Change the filter, clean vents and remove any dirt or dust that has settled on the unit and connections. If you suspect problems, schedule a professional to check it out now - rather than wait until temperatures drop.

418 BRYN MAWR AVE BALA CYNWYD 5 Beds | 5 Baths | 3,690 Sq. Ft.

Open House

Imagine Yourself Here Join me in your neighborhood October 13 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Beautiful New Construction by Sposato Homes! Enter into a welcoming 2 story foyer with an abundance of natural light that illuminates the hardwood floors throughout the house. The entryway opens to an open foyer leading to a the living room, dining room, family room with a fireplace and a gorgeous kitchen. Israela Haor-Friedman Sales Associate 610-730-0731 (Mobile Phone) 610-649-4500 (Office Phone) israela.friedman@foxroach.com www.israelarealtor.com ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. ©2019 BHH Affiliates, LLC. Pub 10/19

I Love Lower Merion I’m a proud resident of Lower Merion and I love to call the Main Line “home.” I am passionate about helping families ﬁnd their perfect home. If you want to buy, sell, rent or just want to know what your home is worth, I would be honored to help. Call me and together we can ﬁnd the place you’ll love to call home.

Passionate about the place you call home

ISRAELA HAOR-FRIEDMAN A passion for the place you call home REALTOR®

610-730-0731 cell Israela.friedman@foxroach.com www.Israelafriedman.foxroach.com 610-649-4500 office

October 10, 2019 / 11 Tishrei, 5780

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