February 24, 2012 by The Jewish Star

Jewish foundations funding antisemitism Page 4 Kosher bookworm: Purim 5772 Page 5 Kosher critic: Bravo’s pizza Page 7 Who’s in the kitchen: No bake lemon soufflé Page 8

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VOL 11, NO 8 ■ FEBRUARY 24, 2012 / 1 ADAR 5772 WWW.THEJEWISHSTAR.COM

You’d be surprised to learn who profited from Jewish Death Boycotts are sensitive issues to Jews, and they are often discussed and carried out in incongruous ways. When we see the BDS (Boycott Divest Sanction) movement gaining steam on college campuses across the United States, we want to lash out, telling them how wrong they are about Israel. However, when we know that many Eastern European Jews and their descendants cringe at the idea of owning a Mercedes or Volkswagen, it’s an oddity that we accept and even deal with as we conveniently park the German car around the corner so the neighbors don’t see. BDS efforts were first introduced two years before Israel’s independence in 1948 when the Arab League established and has since maintained a blacklist of companies that trade with Israel. Names on that list are often blocked from the lucrative Arab markets. Groups like the Anti-Defamation League and others from the alphabet soup of Jewish organizations staged public, direct and indirect campaigns at boycott compliant companies. The BDS movement has moved beyond products and trade; to academia and education – to prevent the flow of knowledge from Israel’s thinkers to the world and to keep new ideas out of Israel as well. Juda Engelmayer Boycotts work, clearly, as it did in apartheid South Africa. It is the reason that so many who oppose Israel for everything from ideological and religious reasons to base anti-Semitism try to make the groundless and wounding comparison between Israel and the apartheid regime. The unique history of the Jewish experience has helped create an almost understood, unstated list of products and companies that were associated with Jewish suffering. Earlier, when companies such as PepsiCo and Toyota were alleged to be adhering to this boycott, Jews took notice. Most Japanese automakers boycotted Israel until the Gulf War of 1992 cracked holes in the trade walls. For years, Pepsi products were not allowed in our home, and my father and grandfather would mock any Jewish friend or relative with a German car. As a writer, however,

Photo by Shevi Katzman, kinus.com

3,000 women packed the grand ballroom at the New York Hilton Sunday night at Chabad’s annual Kinus

Chabad wonder women converge on New York By Karen C. Green Imagine a grand ballroom the size of a football field — alive with palpable, unparalleled energy. Candleadorned round tables are set to accommodate 3,000 women and behind

a massive stage, a backdrop displays a giant projection of portraits of the Rebbe Menachem Schneerson and Rebettzin Chaya Mushka along with Yiddish words that translate as, “There goes a chosid, there eats a chosid, there sleeps a chosid.”

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Shabbat Candlelighting: 5:21 p.m. Shabbat ends 6:21 p.m. 72 minute zman 6:51 p.m. Torah Reading Parshat Terumah

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The words echoed the theme of a Sunday evening event that served as a crescendo for the five-day annual Chabad International Women’s convention from Feb. 15 to Feb. 19. Hosted by Merkos L’Inyonei ChiContinued on page 3

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Who profited from Jewish death? Continued from page 1 my father always used the most advanced IBM Selectric typewriter with the neat typeball that even came in a Hebrew font. My grandfather’s law office had three, and I used them all for my school papers as well. So why did IBM get a pass? It was a little known fact back then that the American Behemoth, International Business Machines, headquartered in Armonk, NY, collaborated with the Nazi regime to help track down every Jew in Germany and Eastern Europe. In his landmark book released in 2001, IBM and the Holocaust, writer and investigator Edwin Black documented how the “concept of massively organized information quietly emerged to become a means of social control, a weapon of war, and a roadmap for group destruction,” through the use of IBM’s first tabulating machine, arguably the first computer, the Hollerith tabulation machine – built by Buffalo born Herman Hollerith. Black argues that IBM, with the knowledge of its New York headquarters, willingly customized and specialized applications for the Nazis. IBM’s profits soared during the Third Reich, and it kept sending more cards and providing parts to maintain the machines that had been deployed to just about all concentration camps and regions under German control. IBM sent samples of customized punch cards back and forth to Reich offices until they met Hitler’s specifications. While IBM argues its virtue, the cards could only be designed, printed, and purchased from IBM; there were no generic alternatives back then. Additionally, the machines were not sold, but leased; and they were maintained and restored solely by IBM. IBM denies any knowledge or complicity and claims that it cannot be responsible for what its machines were used for once purchased. Yet, as the war raged on and news of the extermination camps spread to the world and, needless to say, to New York as well, IBM’s German affiliate had grown to be a serious economic engine for the company. On the tenth anniversary of the book’s launch, and more than 1.5 million books sold, Edwin Black prepared a second edition printing with smoking gun, never-before published IBM internal correspondences and government documents. Mr. Black has spent the past ten years filling in the small blanks left and answering the claims of IBM as a result of his work. On Sunday, February 26th, at Yeshiva University’s Furst Hall, the book will be launched while the author speaks before a live and an Internet webcast audience. Michael Hirsh at Newsweek wrote, “IBM facilitated the identification and roundup of millions of Jews during the 12 years of the Third Reich... Black’s evidence may be the most damning to appear yet against a corporate accomplice.” The next time you hear someone make a snide comment about a Mercedes or a Braun coffee maker, ask why the ThinkPad on his desk is any better. Boycott’s are not the answer, and blaming a company today for the actions of its leaders during WWII may satisfy individual rage, but will not change the facts. Remembering what happened, uncovering the truth, knowing who benefitted and facilitated, and teaching new generations not to hate are far more productive recourse. Juda Engelmayer is an executive with the NY PR Agency, 5W Public Relations.

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Continued from page 1 nuch, the educational arm of ChabadLubavitch, the conference offered several days of workshops, group programs, study sessions, and networking opportunities timed to coincide with the observance of the twentyfourth anniversary of the passing of Rebbetzin Chaya Musha Schneerson A’H, wife of The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, A’H. Participants at the banquet, who came from as near as the Five Towns and as far as Southeast Asia, felt right at home among their peers at the New York Hilton hotel as Photos by Shevi Katzman, kinus.com they were guided through the evening’s festivities by their emcee, Rebettzin Shterni Former Miss South Africa, Ilana SkolGruzman, a Shlucha in Vienna Austria who nick, discusses her spiritual journey. chaired the event. Chanie Wolowik of the Five Towns menting the global vision of the Rebbe… Chabad described the five day convention as if you’ve touched a single soul, then in the “an opportunity to recharge, to connect, to Rebbe’s opinion, you had a major effect.” be inspired from the older and younger genRebettzin Shapiro spoke at great length eration. Women in their seventies and girls in about the Rebbe’s love for every Jew and their twenties sharing stories and exchanging how his love-turned–vision-turned-mission ideas, we generally feel like sisters with com- serves as an inspiration for emissaries to live mon goals — for me, personally, it’s literally in countries with little in the way of Jewish a family reunion, seeing cousins that live in resources. Shanghai, Milan, Paris, Panama, Ohio, Kan“The Rebbe had the ability to see greatsas, Sao Paulo, Brazil, it’s amazing.” ness in all creation, in all humanity,” she The enormity of the event was difficult to said, “A shliach, an emissary, is a lamplightfathom. “Each person sitting here er, an ambassador that embodies represents a community… to see the Rebbe’s missions and goals. If all the places around the world there is one Jew alienated from represented, Singapore to Nepal. their roots then our work isn’t The same things that we do here done.” in the Five Towns are mirrored in Merkos Vice Chairman and the smallest and remote places Kinus organizer Rabbi Moshe worldwide,” added Wolowik. Kotlarsky, (father of Rebettzin Indeed, the ballroom was Chanie Wolowik), spoke of the packed with devoted women who proud shluchim worldwide who travelled from all over the world live and breathe the Rebbe’s — some from South Africa, Bra- Myrna Zisman, mission everyday of their lives. zil, Nepal, Laos and Cyprus — all Chabad support“Moshe Rabeinu appointed rullistening intently to the extensive er applauds the ers of 50 and rulers of 10 and program of speakers. The accents women. rulers of thousands — and each and languages spoken in the vast of those leaders had the same room varied greatly, but the common de- qualifications. Same is true of the Shluchim. nominator of kinus unified more than 3,000 The Rebbe sent out Shluchim in all capaciwomen. ties, whether to countries, to cities, or to Rebettzin Fruma Shapiro of Sydney, Aus- schools, whether for youth or for counseling tralia, the keynote speaker at the banquet, or for teaching or for humanitarism — all the touted the energies of the women. “Shlucha same.” are women who have consciously chosen to Mrs. Ilana Skolnick, the evening’s guest commit their lives, actively working, imple- speaker, spoke about her spiritual journey

THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

Wonder women convene

Above, sisters, Nechama Greenberg and Ari, Nomi Kotlarsky, Sara Benjaminson, Chanie Wolowik reunite at the Kinus. (Right), Six emissaries from different continents conducted the international roll call as women cheered and raised ﬂags at the banquet. to Yiddishkeit, which began with her being crowned Miss South Africa. Through her travels she met her husband, an Israeli living in Greece. Skolnick told an inspiring and moving story of continuously growing in Yiddishkeit, meeting with the Rebbe a few times, and ultimately becoming fully observant. “Over 30 years ago I travelled to New York as one of many other women, as part of a beauty pageant. Now, over 30 years later, I traveled to New York with thousands of women from around the world, but it is a group of women who bring light to the world. I have just one thing to say — thank you Rebbe.” As the evening drew to a close, six emissaries from different continents stood on stage, Rebettzin Simcha Abergel of Singapore, Rebettzin Shaindel Raskin of Larnaca, Cyprus, Rebettzin Nechama Dina Segal of Poltava , Ukraine, Rebettzin Shaindel Samama, of Strausborg France, Rebettzin Chaya Taxil of Salta, Argentina, and Rebettzin Sara Weinstein of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They

recited an international roll call of emissaries from all over the globe as women cheered and waved their countries’ flags. Myrna Zisman, Village of Cedarhurst trustee, and a Chabad of Five Towns supporter, spoke from the heart about the significance of the evening in relation to her connection to Chabad. “My husband Leibel is a seventh generation Chabadnick. His father, Shraga Feivel Zisman was an emissary of the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, in Kovno, Lithuania. “When the Rebbe needed assistance in that part of Europe, [my husband’s] father would leave for a few days and his wife, Leba Bluma ran his business. She was imbued with the same strength and belief as these wonderful women here tonight. “Although I have never met her, her reputation is legendary. She perished with the rest of my husband’s family in the Holocaust. I honor her memory and I honor these amazing women. They continue to save our nation, one Jew at a time.”

Community responds to ADL security alert By Malka Eisenberg With an eye to the recent bombings directed at Israeli diplomats in India, Georgia and Thailand, the Anti-Defamation League issued an advisory to Jewish institutions across the United States to heighten security and awareness. They noted that they are not aware of any current threats. “We are aware of this report,” responded Richard Hagler, Executive Director of HALB, SKA, and DRS. “We have shared this with our security staff as well as the local authorities. We take the security of our students and faculty seriously and are always concerned about their safety.” “Our security company has been in touch with us,” noted Esther Eisenman, Menahelet at Midreshet Shalhevet, “keeping us informed of the current situation and we remain vigilant regarding security in the building as always.” “We spoke to students about it,” pointed out Rabbi Zev Friedman, Rosh Mesivta at Rambam. “An email went out to the parents. At Rambam, being concerned and proactive

about security is always on our mind and is a priority.” “We must all be vigilant and not regard this as a ‘far away’ threat,” continued Rabbi Friedman. “An attack on Jews anywhere should make us ‘wake up’ and realize that there are those who would wish to promote their anti-Israel/anti-Jewish (terrorist) agenda anywhere they think they will be able to succeed.” The ADL recommended that all Jewish institutions review and practice security protocol, that everyone be aware of anything unusual or suspicious, enforce security in handling mail and packages, be sure intercoms, surveillance cameras and doors are in proper working order and stay in touch with local police. Everyone should be aware of suspicious packages, someone filming or photographing, or sitting in a vehicle observing the building and be able to identify a suspicious person, describing gender, age, appearance, clothes, or a suspicious vehicle by make, color, license plate, and the date, time and location.

Packages and letters should be checked for powder, too much postage, if addressed to a title, in a stiff or large envelope, sloppy writing, and anything else out of the ordinary. If a delivery is deemed questionable the advisory warns: stop, don’t open, handle, shake, taste or smell the item, isolate the area and keep others away. Call 911 and wash hands with soap and water. “The Nassau County Police Department have been recommending these steps as a regular course of business for the past dozen years,” said Deputy Inspector Kenneth Lack, commanding officer of the public information office. Detective Lieutenant Gary Shapiro, commanding officer of community affairs and bias crimes coordinator concurred with Lack in a conference call, and noted that although they are “not aware of any terror threats at this time it doesn’t mean that we are not being vigilant.” “This dovetails with what we’ve been telling our citizens for years,” said Lack. “We act on each and every one of the tips from our citizens. Through our contacts in community

affairs we get inquiries routinely but there have been no recent threats.” Lack stressed that they hold hundreds of meetings with the community and institutions throughout the year and hold a large Jewish security meeting at least once a year. “The department is vigilant,” stressed Lack. “We constantly have a heightened sense of awareness.” “The public’s help is the single greatest crime fighting tool; when you see something say something.” Lack cited SPIN, the security/police information network where police and private citizens share information to aid Homeland Security. “The police are vigilant and use cutting edge technology to keep the community safe but we need the community’s help. There are over 100 synagogues in Nassau County. We have to work together and keep awareness up,” Lack added. If you see something suspicious call crime stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS and for emergencies and immediate response call 911, pointed out Lack. For more information on security go to ADL’s website: www.adl.org/security.

1 Adar 5772 • February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

Opinion Why are these Jewish foundations funding antisemitism? W hat do Barbara Streisand, the Pritzker Family, Jewish Communal Fund and the Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston have in common? Along with other Jewish related charitable foundations they are all helping to fund the anti-Semitism of Media Matters for America (MMFA). The Daily Caller recently published internal MMFA documents exposing the group’s coordination with the White House and liberal media outlets such as MSNBC and Politico. The objective is to control the story-line American’s see every day as news. The group operates in regular coordination with the highest levels of the Obama White House, as well as with members of Congress and progresPOLITICO sive groups around the TO GO country. Brock, who collected over $250,000 in salary from Media Matters in 2010, has himself become a major fundraiser on the left. According to an internal memo obtained by The DC [Daily Caller], Media Matters intends to spend nearly $20 million in 2012 to influence news coverage. Jeff Dunetz Donors have every reason to expect success, as the group’s effect on many news organizations has already been profound. “We were pretty much writing their prime time,” a former Media Matters employee said of the cable channel MSNBC. “But then virtually all the mainstream media was using our stuff.” I have been investigating MMFA, since early 2007, when they were primarily designed to protect Hilary Clinton from “right wing” attacks. Once Barack Obama became the 2008 nominee they switched tactics to protecting the nominee and his progressive agenda. Sadly, rather than becoming a true media watchdog, they lowered themselves to name-calling and the use of truth in their writing became unnecessary. Part of their new attack strategy was directed against Jews and Israel, as the progressive agenda looks at Israel as a roadblock to a world where American and Arab leaders can sit in front of a campfire to sing

“Kumbaya.” The anti-Semitism of Media Matters took a leap forward when it hired M.J. Rosenberg to blunt criticism of Obama’s Israel policies. While there was no proof that this was a White House request, the strong coordination between the White House and Media Matters suggest that this may be the case. Rosenberg, a former AIPAC employee, served as editor of the Near East report but was forced out because AIPAC wanted the magazine to be more clearly aligned to their pro-Israel agenda. From 1998-2009, he was director of policy at Israel Policy Forum (IPF) where he strengthened his attacks not only on Israel, but on anyone who dared to support the Jewish State. At the IPF and even, to a larger extent, at MMFA, Rosenberg regularly questioned the patriotism of American Jews who support Israel (calling them Israel Firsters) and claimed those same Jews (he calls them the Israel lobby) control the media and America’s foreign policy. In December, MMFA’s sister organization, the Center for American Progress (run by Obama buddy John Podesta) went after the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Not to be bullied, Rabbi Abraham Cooper of the Simon Wiesenthal Center fought back. Rabbi Cooper spoke out against the Antisemitism of MMFA and the Center for American Progress. “Unfortunately, it’s becoming increasingly difficult in this country to take a position sympathetic to the Jewish state and in favor of the continuation of America’s historic strong alliance with Israel without being called ‘an Israel Firster’ and charged with ‘dual loyalties’.…. CAP blogger Eli Clifton joined Media Matters Senior Foreign Policy Fellow MJ Rosenberg in using Twitter to promote an article accusing the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s Museum of Tolerance of pushing ‘Western groupthink that has for centuries justified wars and countless atrocities against the Arab world . . .[that’s] representative of the way many Americans feel toward Muslims and Arabs — that they are all terrorists.’ Rosenberg himself has repeatedly smeared Jewish groups such the AntiDefamation League, the American Jewish Committee, and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee as ‘Israel Firsters.’” Not many people were surprised when the Simon Wiesenthal Center denounced the use of the dual loyalty term, but when

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Karen C. Green Malka Eisenberg Helene Parsons Miriam Bradman Abrahams Rabbi Avi Billet Jeff Dunetz Juda Engelmayer Rabbi Binny Freedman Alan Jay Gerber Jonathan Greenstein Rabbi Noam Himelstein Judy Joszef Zechariah Mehler Aviva Rizel Alyson Goodman Marina Russian Christina Daly

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Jewish Foundation Donors To MMFA Stephen M Silberstein Foundation Pritzker Family Foundation Sandler Foundation Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Greater Boston, Inc. Bernard & Audre Rapoport Foundation Joseph H and Barbara I Ellis Foundation Community Foundation of the United Jewish Federation of San Diego Barbra Streisand Foundation Lear Family Foundation Rebecca and Nathan Milikowsky Family Foundation Scott A. Nathan Charitable Trust Jewish Communal Fund Beatrice Snyder Foundation Jewish Community Federation of Cleveland Richard and Rhoda Goldman Fund Leonard and Sophie Davis Fund Peter and Linda Solomon Foundation Engelberg Foundation Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties Glickenhaus Foundation Joseph & Florence Mandel Foundation

the Jewish progressive magazine The Tablet condemned CAP and MMFA for its use of anti-Semitic stereotypes, eyebrows were raised. The root of this problem is not a twenty-something blogger writing something stupid on the Internet. Rather, it is that anti-Semitic rhetoric and logic are being protected and justified by those who are supposed to be gatekeepers. These people, often in the service of their larger political aims, are willing to apologize for or ignore what is obviously Jew-baiting and Jewhatred.....This isn’t how the world works. Americans’ sensitivity to racist language directed at African-Americans has not made Americans insensitive to “real” anti-black racism. Rather it has made us scrupulous about our language, and subsequently our beliefs and practices have come to reflect, if not wholly fulfill, the promises embodied in this country’s founding documents…..What makes people insensitive to racism is when American political and intellectual elites refuse to confront racist language. The use of phrases like “Israel Firster” and “dual loyalist” that are based on anti-Semitic tropes is anti-Semitic. So is the belief that Jews fan the flames of hatred for discussing the opinions of those who hate them. Eventually the CAP apologized and fired those responsible, but MMFA, through its hired hit man, continues his anti-Semitic ranting. One of the MMFA items published by the Daily Caller report was a list of foundations who donated money to keep Media Matters spewing anti-Semitic hatred. After some additional research, we have found a number of those foundations have Jewish goals, donate to Jewish causes, or had Jewish founders, who help fund the anti-Semitic Media Matters. Some of the names on this list stand out, for example Jay Robert (J.B.) Pritzker the president of his family foundation is very involved in Jewish causes including AIPAC and making sure the lessons of the Shoah are taught in public schools. Is his support of President Obama so strong that he ig-

nores MMFA’s questioning of Jewish loyalty to America? I would ask the same of the Rappoport Foundation who gives generously to the Jerusalem Foundation and United Jewish Communities, the Ellis Foundation who donates so generously to Hillel and many others on the above list. For comic relief I can report that the Lear foundation, founded by TV executive Norman Lear gave both to Media Matters and the Wiesenthal Center’s Museum of Tolerance. Perhaps he was trying to hedge his bets by supporting accused and accuser. As for the Jewish community federations of Cleveland, San Diego and San Francisco as well as the combined Jewish Philanthropies of Boston, there is no excuse. These organizations have no right to take funds directed toward Jewish charities and spend it on partisan secular politics. Sometimes we Jews tend to be our own worst enemies. As Ze’ev Jabotinsky said, Jews shut their eyes to one of the most elementary rules of life, that you must not “meet halfway” those who do not want to meet you. Media Matters for America didn’t just start spreading anti-Semitic stereotypes in December and neither is the bigotry a new exercise for their hired hitman M.J. Rosenberg. It is incredible that some Jewish foundations care so desperately about pushing the liberal agenda, that they don’t bother (or don’t care) to understand that those same liberal organizations are pushing an anti-Semitic agenda. It’s time for these groups (and their donors) to wake up and smell the cholent.

Jeff Dunetz is the Editor/Publisher of the political blog “The Lid” (www.jeffdunetz. com). Jeff contributes to some of the largest political sites on the internet including American Thinker, Big Government, Big Journalism, NewsReal and Pajama’s Media, and has been a guest on national radio shows including G. Gordon Liddy, Tammy Bruce and Glenn Beck. Jeff lives in Long Island.

5 THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

The Kosher Bookworm

Purim 5772: Majesty and Mystery Among all Jewish holidays perhaps the most festive is Purim. In just about every aspect an atmosphere of joy envelops every activity, from liturgy to culinary. Yet, underlining this festive mood are the numerous commentaries on the sacred writ that serve as the foundational mode of Purim. These commentaries serve as the theological basis of the holiday and are based upon the text of the Book of Esther which details the historical basis of the holiday. This year a new commentary has been published featuring the teachings of Rabbi Norman Lamm compiled and edited by Dr. Joel Wolowelsky, titled, “The Megillah: Majesty and Mystery”[OU Press / RIETS Yeshiva University Press, 2012 ] . This work is a compilation of commentary on the Book Alan Jay Gerber of Esther as well as an extensive commentary on the Maariv evening service that frames the night reading of the Megillah based upon the teachings of Rabbi Norman Lamm, Rosh Yeshiva of RIETS / Yeshiva University. Much of what I found in this work is original in both content and presentation. The language is easy flowing and informal which reflects a very user /reader friendly

tone. From the very outset, Rabbi Lamm sets a firm marker as to what he wishes to teach us concerning his concept as to the theme and purpose of the Megillah, that being the practical lessons to be gleaned from the behavior of all involved. Rabbi Lamm starts out with a question. Consider the following teaching: “Who is the real hero of the Megillah? Of course, if we refer the question to the folk-consciousness of our people, there is no doubt that the answer is either Esther or Mordecai. Remarkably, however, if we refer to the Megillah itself, we discover that the name mentioned most frequently throughout the entire book is that of King Ahashverosh. One 19th century Jewish scholar went to the trouble of counting the number of times that the term melech, king, appears in this little book. His study showed that the name appears no less than 187 times. “King Ahashverosh is a central figure, the axis of the whole plot. All revolves around him, nothing occurs without him. At almost every point we are apprised of the feelings and emotions of Ahashverosh: the king is happy, the king is angry; the king is restless, the king is upset; the king is fuming, the king is drunk; the king commands, the king consents. Even the greatness of Mordecai is tied to the king. At the very end of the book, we read that, ‘Mordecai the Jew was next unto King Ahashverosh,’

“Yet,” notes Rabbi Lamm the ultimate literary irony that haunts us throughout the book, “despite the fact that nothing seems to happen in this book without the ubiquitous king, he appears as a man who is feeble, spineless, unimaginative, and powerless. In the 10 chapters of the Megillah not a single act of importance is initiated by Ahashverosh– except, of course, his merrymaking at parties and his romantic adventures.” This introductory sample gives you but a hint at what is to come from the gifted pen of Rabbi Lamm. The irony cited above sure sets a tone that, in my opinion, accurately reflects the text and expands its theme in ways that makes this work both a joy to read and to learn from. The concluding teaching from the very last chapter and verse is no different in demonstrating to us both the human as well as the political quality of the theme of the Megillah as taught to us from the pen of Rabbi Lamm. Consider the following from that last phrase: “….seeking the good of his people and speaking peace to all his seed.”[Esther 10:3]. “In the closing words we learn how ‘Mordecai the Jew was next unto King Ahashverosh, and accepted by most of his brethren, seeking – doresh – the good of his people and speaking peace to all his seed.’ “Mordecai did not throw away his yarmulke and try his best to look and sound

like a Persian WASP. He remained a gadol, a genuinely great Jew, even while he was second in command to the king himself, and traveling in the highest circles of the Persian government. With all this, he was also one who sought the welfare, the good, for his people. “But, the word doresh means not only to seek, but to demand! Mordecai demanded of his people that they act according to the highest principles of Torah, of that which is good and right. And in that manner he assured shalom, as both peace and wholesomeness, for his people and their children after them.” These profound words from Rabbi Lamm should and must serve a sharp lesson to all those among us who find themselves with responsibilities in high government positions not to forget from where they come, their people, and their G-d. That is the lesson that Purim ultimately comes to teach us all, a lesson that applies to us for all time.

FOR FURTHER STUDY In addition to Rabbi Lamm’s excellent work may I suggest that you consider the following essays for your learning and reading pleasure: Megillat Esther, Its ‘Hidden’ Message by Rabbi Menachem Leibtag www.tanach. org/special/purim.txl Megillat Esther: She’asah Nissim La’avoteinu by Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom www.vbm-torah.org/purim/pur-es.htm

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1 Adar 5772 • February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

The Lesson of the Three Ms

n the descriptions of three of the elements of the to-be-constructed mishkan, the Torah includes the phrase “as you saw/were shown in the mountain.” In other words, in giving Moshe the descriptions of how things are to be made for the mishkan, he was also provided with a visual aid to better understand what the items in question should look like. The Torah does not shy away from repeating phrases such as “As G-d commanded Moshe” and the like, which support a running theme in the Rabbi Avi Billet Torah’s narrative. As our phrase in question is repeated, but only three times, it stands to reason that the three items the phrase is attached to are connected. We are told that Moshe saw a vision of the Menorah (25:40), how to set up the mishkan in its entirety (notably through erecting

the beams that make up the walls) (26:30), and what the Mizbeach was supposed to look like (27:8). Aside from all of the three items beginning with the same consonant, what could be a connection between these different items? The menorah is made out of solid gold, the beams are made of wood and covered with gold, and the mizbeach is made of wood and covered with copper. If anything, the Ark, the table, the small mizbeach and the beams would be in the same category, all made out of wood and covered with gold. Perhaps the cover for the ark and the menorah could be classified similarly as they are both of more complex and intricate design and made out of a solid piece of gold. I think that the three things have in common that they all serve the entire nation. The mishkan itself and the mizbeach do this in a more obvious way. The building will be the center of Jewish life. It is the central image of that which we look to for inspiration in our quest to get close to G-d, as a place on earth where G-d’s presence is identifiable. The mizbeach is the place where all sacrifices offered by the people will be brought, and

the candles to burn forever.” It therefore comes as no shock that the visions of the mishkan, mizbeach and menorah were shown to Moshe on the mountain. If we were to symbolically contemporize these three things, the mishkan would be our community center (the shul building, perhaps), the mizbeach would be the specific place we serve God (such as the sanctuary) and the method of doing so (prayer), and the menorah would be that which shines forever because it is fully supported by our communities. Maybe the parallel to the menorah is the Torah, maybe it’s our children, maybe it’s our way of life, maybe it’s the values we continue to live, sacrifice and strive for, maybe it’s just our hopes and dreams for our collective future. None of these happen or work automatically. A divine blueprint is the best guide for making things work and having them be successful. Moshe was given that blueprint for physical and tangible vessels of the mishkan. May we merit to be enlightened with a similar blueprint that will help our own “candles” burn forever.

it therefore serves the important function of channeling the connection people will be striving to make with G-d. The mizbeach is also used every day, and even had a prohibition against the extinguishing of its fire. How does the menorah serve the entire nation? More pointedly, how does the menorah stand unique amongst all the other vessels? The Ark, for example, is the symbol of the Torah. While it is usually hidden, it makes an appearance every now and then, such as when leading the people in battle. The menorah is unique because even though just like the smaller mizbeach, the table, and the ark its place is hidden from the view of the general public, it is the only item in the mishkan which not only has a daily use (the ark sits idly, and the table is touched once a week when the show-bread is replaced), but whose function is a conglomeration of the participation of the entire nation. One need look no further than the beginning of the next parsha (end of Ch. 27) to understand the role every member of the nation has in the functioning of the menorah. As the Ibn Ezra writes (27:20), “There is an eternal commandment for the community to always provide the olive oil that will allow

Zayin Adar: Commemorating a day off

nyone with a particular skill usually wants to show it off; great singers love to sing in public, people gifted with comic timing love to tell jokes, a great negotiator loves to negotiate, and a financial planner loves to plan people’s finances. There is only one group of people who have specific, non-transferable skills and really do not want to show these skills off. These are the members of the chevra kadisha, the holy assembly of people tasked with the preparation of bodies for ceremonial burial. While most people want more business and more opportunities to show off their special skills, the chevra kadisha actually prays for the day when their special skills are no longer necessary. As long as there have been chevrot kadisha, and as long as there has been Jewish ceremonial preparation of bodies for burial, there has been the custom among the Dr. Jeff Ratz members of this chevra to observe a holiday on the date of zayin Adar, the seventh day of the lunar month of Adar. This special day of observance among the members of this sacred society is significant because traditionally, on this day, the services of the chevra kadisha were not necessary at the death and internment of Moshe Rabeinu on Har Nevo in the midbar (desert). The Chazal teach that, to show respect for not only the dignity but the holiness of Moshe, Hashem himself performed the taharah ritual and prepared the body for burial. It has become customary, therefore, for chevrot kadisha around the world to recognize this “day off,” and to gather together to both complete ceremonial business—in some places to elect their boards and confirm constitutions, etc.—and also to enjoy each other’s company (which is not something these people typically do when they are together). Additionally, as zayin Adar almost never falls on Shabbos, it is truly a “day off” for those whose toils seem to never cease.

The preparations for burial include many piyutim and psalms that members of the chevra kadisha know almost by heart. One phrase truly captures the solemnity and ritual that is embodied each time this chevra gathers to do their work: “Pitchu sha’arim v’yavo goy tzadik, shomer emunim”; “Let the gates open and let the righteous nation enter, those who keep the L-rd’s faith.” Chevrot kadisha around the world participate in true chessed shel emet, true thankless acts of kindness. It is their commemoration and observance of our faith’s burial customs that maintains the dignity of our communities; it is their performance—above and beyond the

typical call of duty—that model for us how to maintain the dignity of the living each and every day. It is their recognition of the importance of a “day off” from honest, virtuous work that reminds us all of the necessity of contributing meaningfully to society, whether others recognize our contributions or whether they go unnoticed and ignored. This year, as in other years, the chevra kadisha of this community will be holding their annual chevra kadisha seudah on Wednesday, February 29th at the Young Israel of Woodmere. All are welcome to give thanks to this group who never ask for thanks, but, thanks to them, our continuity

as an Am Kadosh, a holy nation, is guaranteed. Rabbi Eli Mansour, a noted speaker, will deliver a lecture entitled “Insights to Purim” at 8 PM. For reservations, please contact the YIW office at 516-295-0150. Dr. Jeffrey Ratz has been a member of a chevra kadisha in various cities for over 30 years. He maintains a chiropractic practice in Brooklyn, NY. He lives with his wife, Pearl, in Woodmere, NY where they are members of Young Israel of Woodmere; together they have four children, each of whom is actively involved in his or her Jewish community from New York, to Maryland, to Jerusalem, Israel.

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I used to dream of making Aliyah, but it has become a far away fantasy. During my single days I spent every summer break there and left my first job to work in Tel Aviv. I met my husband in Israel; he shared my vision and we’ve continued to discuss making the big move. Twenty seven years have passed MIRIAM’S MUSINGS since we met and we’re still in New York, so what happened? Well, life did…kids, extended family, work and finances, and also a sense of inertia and comfort with our existence here. We’ve watched neighbors fill shipping containers with their belongings and go for Miriam Bradman a year or for good. I Abrahams recently spent time with my friend who did something only considered normal here, in Brooklyn and Teaneck. She lives in Israel with the kids while her husband continues to work here. He’s a frequent flyer who leaves JFK late Thursday night, travels light, sleeps through the flight and arrives early Friday morning at Ben Gurion, ready to spend quality time with his family. Though this solution wouldn’t work for

us, we wish full and part-time olim a heartfelt “kol hakavod” and admire them for their efforts to realize the Zionist dream. Yeshiva Rambam and Yeshiva of Flatbush instilled in me a deep love of Israel and a strong desire to be there. Some of my Israeli teachers were on a mission to encourage Aliyah. They planted the seed which motivated me to spend a summer at Tel Aviv University after my freshman year of college. I had never been away from home on my own and it was quite an incredible experience. I fell in love with Israel (and my independence!) and didn’t want to return to Brooklyn. I informed my parents I wanted to move there immediately, but was sensibly told I could go after graduating from Brooklyn College. After that amazing summer, I filled my need for an Israel “fix” by visiting annually. I eventually did move to Israel with the hopeful intention of staying permanently. I found a good job and sublet a room in my friend’s Tel Aviv apartment. My stay was cut short by fate when I met my future husband who was ironically on his way to New York from South Africa. In five months away, I caught a glimpse of how hard it would be to leave my family permanently. That small dose of minimal contact with my parents and sister, before Skype and cheap calling cards, is a big reason we haven’t moved. I observed the difficulties of

emigration through my husband’s experience when he left his family in Durban. He saw his parents less than once a year, relying on letters and phone calls to keep connected. Each time I revisit Israel I get an injection of the same fervor I felt on my college summer there. I love the Tnuva welcome sign at the airport and magically switch to Hebrew mode. I enjoy the bounty of delicious produce and dairy, the Mediterranean, “chag samayach” signs on buses, conversations with taxi drivers and reconnecting with my Israeli family. I am well aware of the negative aspects of life there; overstressed pushy personalities, the pervasive addiction to breaking news, economic struggle, the harsh reality of sending children to the army and a constant vigilance about the surrounding enemies. My fears about the ever-present “matzav” dissipate as I observe how Israelis handle it by living “normally.” My frantic phoning to check up on our sons in Israel contrasts sharply with an experience I had in Tel Aviv with Ariel when he received an alert on his cell phone signaling possible danger. We were waiting to be picked up by our Israeli cousins one Friday morning to visit the shuk and I called to mention the alert. My very sensible cousin sighed and said, ”if we stayed home for every warning we’d never leave home…it’s up to you, but we’re going.” I was torn but, uncharacteristically, de-

cided to join. I was nervous until we passed through the Nahalat Binyamin’s security and melded with the sea of locals; there were not many tourists then. I felt, who was I to be more cautious than my Israeli cousin who was living this way day after day, when it could, even should, be me living here. My husband phoned me from Woodmere about the alert, to see how I was coping. I told him I was shopping in Shuk HaCarmel and he couldn’t believe it. He told me to remember this when I came back home and harassed the boys regarding my fears concerning Israel. I’m excited to visit my daughter and niece next year during their year in Israel. I’m in awe of my friends’ children who join the IDF, envious of families moving en masse via Nefesh B’Nefesh and was amazed to read about the oldest couple ever to make Aliyah, age 95 and 93! Though anything is possible, I’ve (mostly) made my peace with living here. I feel as strong a bond as ever to the land and our people…and still tear up whenever I sing “Next Year in Jerusalem.” Miriam Bradman Abrahams is Cuban born, Brooklyn bred and lives in Woodmere. She organizes author events for Hadassah, reviews books for Jewish Book World and is very slowly writing her father’s immigration story. She teaches yoga. Miriam can be reached at mabraha1@optonline.net.

Bravo’s pizza is worthy of a standing ovation There is no food item in New York more iconic, more indulgent or more exquisite than a slice served hot from the oven at a really good pizzeria. I’ll never forget the first time my father brought me to New York at the ripe old age of nine. He took me to his old stomping grounds in Brooklyn and bought me a slice of pizza from some ancient establishment that he used to frequent during his days at the Mir. The slice I was given seemed massive and I remember it being the THE KOSHER finest piece of pizza I CRITIC had ever eaten. There was a time when New York was dotted with similar kosher establishments whose primary fare was exceptional pizza. But something happened in the Nineties that gave rise to the surge in kosher fine dining and as a result New York lost its quality kosher pizza joints. Zechariah Mehler Far from me to say that there isn’t good pizza available in the kosher world. There is in fact wonderful pizza, it’s just that some things have changed in ways that has left the New York kosher community bereft of the brilliantly constructed pies it once had access to. Slices became smaller, toppings applied less liberally and slowly but surely the pizza places began to each provide products so markedly similar that every restaurant’s pizza tasted like every other restaurant’s pizza. The travesty is that we accepted this sad state of affairs. We thought nothing of the fact that where once there was considerable pride taken in the superiority and consistency of the pizza we ate, now we measured the difference in quality by centimeters rather than feet. To quote a non-kosher

Photo by Xx

A sample of Bravo’s fare, with different varieties of pizza slices piled high with toppings. friend, “kosher pizza just tastes like…kosher pizza.” In other words, we have altered our standards to adjust for the fact that the vast majority of kosher pizza restaurants at their very best make good pizza, maybe even great pizza, but it’s still a far cry from the excellence it used to be. That is why when a friend told me about how a formerly treif pizzeria called Bravo Pizza had gone kosher I excitedly hauled into the city to see if they would produce a slice like the one I remembered. Bravo, located on Broadway between 36th and 37th Street, is an aptly named old school pizzeria. The large plate glass window that faces the street displays a truly daunting number of pizza pies each of which are supremely fresh. The interior is classically New York Italian feeling with its neon signs, dark ambiance, tin ceiling and pictures of famous Italians many of whom are fictional characters from the silver screen. The

tenor of the restaurant is loud and chaotic in the best way. Workers behind the bar where the pizza is kept take your order and hustle you down the line so that you can pay and as I stood in the crush of humanity clamoring for their slice I swear I was taken by how authentically New York the experience was. The slices themselves are superb. They are large and the ones with toppings are quite literally piled with them. My wife and I shared a regular slice, a mushroom and olive slice and two pieces of Sicilian. The regular is quite simply awesome and it stands as the control for which the more complex slices are graded. It has a crispy crust with a fantastic house- made sauce that has just a hint of the tomato’s sweetness and a nice little spicy kick. The pizza is covered abundantly in gooey cheese that is made by a manufacturer in Wisconsin specifically for Bravo. The mushroom and olive slice of course used all of these items as a base but was so strik-

ingly different that it was clear that it was not simply a plain pizza with toppings added on. It was a construct bearing its own distinct culinary identity. It had a deep rich flavor provided by the mushrooms that was cut beautifully by the saltiness of the olives. Add the cheese, sauce and crust and you didn’t just have another piece of pizza, you had a gastronomic magnum opus. The Sicilian was equally good and there are dozens of other pies that I am really dying to try, chief among them the stuffed pizza. So if you happen to be in Midtown I implore you to check out Bravo not just because they make a great slice of pizza but because it will remind you of what pizza is supposed to taste like. Zechariah Mehler is a widely published food writer and marketing expert. Follow him on Twitter @thekoshercritic and read his blog at KosherGonzo.com

THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

Next Year in Tel Aviv?

Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the kitchen

When life gives you lemons, make soufflĂŠ SoufflĂŠ, the word itself can be rather intimidating. Of all things culinary, the mention of a soufflĂŠ seems to strike fear in many. SoufflĂŠ; a French word that literally means "puffed up", is a culinary term in both French and English for a light, frothy dish, just stiff enough to hold it's shape. It can be savory or sweet, hot or cold. It's a light fluffy dish of egg yolks and stiffly beaten egg whites mixed with any variety of other ingredients. A primary ingredient in baked soufflĂŠs - though it is seldom mentioned in the ingredient list - is air. Air trapped in the body of the soufflĂŠ causes the dish to Judy Joszef look inflated. If the air starts to escape from the soufflĂŠ, it will look deflated. That's why most baked soufflĂŠs are served immediately. The dish acquired a reputation for difficulty and proneness to accidents. Conversely, a successful soufflĂŠ has certain glamour. This reputation for frailty may be partly due to nervous cooks who open the oven door while the soufflĂŠ is baking. Opening the oven door lowers the temperature in the oven and will interfere with the rising. The same is true for most cakes with beaten egg whites. I can still hear my motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voice,

â&#x2013; 6 eggs â&#x2013; 1 1/2 cups sugar â&#x2013; 2 cups heavy cream â&#x2013; lemon wedges

admonishing us ever so gently, not to bang, jump, make noises or open the oven door while those types of cakes and dishes were baking. A soufflĂŠ has to be left undisturbed for the full cooking time and then served promptly. A soufflĂŠ will collapse if it is undercooked, or if it is kept waiting after cooking. For those of you that are afraid to attempt the traditional soufflĂŠ, I bring to your attention the chilled or frozen "soufflĂŠ." Frozen soufflĂŠs aren't really soufflĂŠs, but are frozen mousses made from flavored mixtures of egg whites, or whole eggs, whipped cream and often a fruit flavoring or purĂŠe. They're often presented in a soufflĂŠ dish that has been wrapped with a removable collar so that the finished recipe looks like a baked soufflĂŠ, hence the name. Although this type of "soufflĂŠ" will not strike fear in those attempting it, I guarantee it will qualify as a "Lintasticâ&#x20AC;? winning dessert. This recipe is made in a quart size soufflĂŠ dish, but for those of you who choose to make it in individual ramekins, the recipe will work just as well. Just make sure to add the collars to the ramekins. Each recipe will yield 6 portions.

Supplies: 1-quart soufflĂŠ or casserole dish (with straight sides) â&#x2013; parchment or foil â&#x2013; pastry bag with star piping tip â&#x2013; tape â&#x2013;

Directions: This recipe calls for a "collar". It is made of parchment paper or foil. It's wrapped around the dish, so that the top of the foil or parchment paper rises two inches above the rim of the dish. The sides of the molded mixture are supported by the collar before they set. Once the collar is removed, soufflĂŠ stands tall and it seems as if it "rises" out of the dish. Prepare a 4-cup soufflĂŠ or casserole dish with foil collar. Measure two lengths of foil long enough to encircle the dish. Fold in half lengthwise; the foil should be about two inches higher than the rim of the dish. Fasten collar to dish with tape. Sprinkle the kosher gelatin over water in small saucepan. Let stand 10 minutes, until gelatin is softened. Place over very low heat until gelatin dissolves and mixture is clear. Remove from heat, cool. Combine eggs and sugar in large mixer bowl. Beat at high speed until very thick and light. This will take 7-8 minutes. Do not use a hand mixer. While that's beating, whip 1 1/2 cups of the cream in a small bowl until soft peaks

NO BAKE, CHILLED LEMON SOUFFLĂ&#x2030; Ingredients: â&#x2013; 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind â&#x2013; 2/3 cup lemon juice â&#x2013; 2 envelopes unflavored kosher gelatin â&#x2013; 1/2 cup water

LOVE &

form, refrigerate. Combine lemon rind and juice with cooled kosher gelatin, pour into egg/sugar mixture. Continue beating until well-blended. Remove bowl from mixer. Chill for 5 minutes in large bowl partly-filled with ice and water. Stir frequently, until mixture is thick. Fold in whipped cream with a rubber spatula. Pour into prepared dish. Refrigerate at least 4 hours. Remove collar gently. Beat remaining cream. Garnish soufflĂŠ with cream and lemon wedges. So go ahead, make noise, dance around the kitchen, bang the cabinet doors and open the fridge, this soufflĂŠ is not going to fall! Judy Joszef is a pastry and personal chef as well as a party planner. She spent 18 years as a pastry chef at Abigaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, The Cedar Club, Centro and T42 in the Five Towns, before launching her current business, SoireĂŠ. She can be contacted at Judy.soireĂŠ@gmail.com.

THE ABRAHAM ARBESFELD KOLLEL YOM RISHON & THE MILLIE ARBESFELD MIDRESHET YOM RISHON PROGRAMS PRESENT

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Yeshiva University Shenk Shul

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Rabbi Ephraim Kanarfogel

Love and Politics in Sefer Shmuel

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Is all Fair in Love and War? Just War through the Prism of secular and Jewish Thought

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Father Knows Best? Towards Understanding Yitzchakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Love of Esav

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What is the meaning of Love in Tanach?

Dr. Shira Weiss

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Can We Truly Love God?: An Analysis of the Trials of Abraham and Job

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1 Adar 5772 â&#x20AC;˘ February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

9 THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE â&#x20AC;˘ 1 Adar 5772

The promised land

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1 Adar 5772 • February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

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Photos by Natan Farber

DRS students visiting the Kever of R’ Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, most famously known as “The Rav” on their trip to Boston.

DRS takes over Boston Last week, for the first time in DRS history, three grades traveled together on grade-wide trip to Boston. The Freshman, Sophomores, and Juniors all left early Wednesday morning for an exciting, fun-filled, and meaningful excursion. The trip included stops at the Basketball Hall of Fame, a Celtics Game, a tour of Fenway Park, Ice Skating, and a Blue Man Group show. One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the Kever of R’ Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, most famously known as “The Rav.” R’ Soloveitchik was the Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva University, where many DRS Rabbeim spent years learning in the YU Beis Medrash. Rashi, in Parshas BaMidbar, explains that when one teaches a student Torah, the student is likened to the teacher’s own son. The Rabbeim explained to the students that Rav Soloveitchik was in a sense their greatgrandfather. Over the trip, the students got a real chance to bond with their friends and Rabbeim. The excitement from the trip was incredible, and we look forward to bringing that excitement into our Adar celebrations in DRS as well.

DRS students enjoyed a trip to Fenway Park, in addition to other fun-filled activities.

HOW CLOSING HALF THE POLICE PRECINCTS IN NASSAU COUNTY WILL AFFECT YOU. The Nassau County plan to close half the police precincts will result in less police presence at a time when home invasions, burglary and other crimes continue to rise. At recent hearings, Republicans in the legislature listened to dozens of county residents give empassioned speeches against closing police precincts. They did exactly what people asked them not to do. The Republicans voted in favor of precinct closures.

Call your legislator and tell him or her to vote NO on February 27 to closing police precincts. For information on what you can do to help stop the closing of our police precincts and protect your family’s safety, visit...

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Paid for by the Nassau County PBA, DAI and SOA

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1 Adar 5772 • February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

By Chaviva Freedman It was an exciting week at HAFTR High School. Not only did more students in the senior class receive additional college acceptances, but it was also a week filled with team wins and insight about the college guidance process. The ninth and tenth grade students, along with their parents, attended College Awareness Night on February 14. The program, run by College Guidance, was instituted to inform the students about the college application process, and to give tips on how to do

well when it comes to the details of filling out the application. Information about standardized exams was also included. The program featured various speakers, including General Studies Principal Ms. Naomi Lippman, Judaic Studies Principal Rabbi Gedaliah Oppen, Rabbi Lewis Wienerkur, director of Boys’ Israel Guidance, and Mrs. Joan Parmet, Director of College Guidance. To give the students insight from a student’s perspective, senior Hillel Friedman told the students and parents about his experience in applying to Princeton University. In addition, college guidance counselors Mrs. Karen Wolf and Mrs. Susan

Szaluta conducted an interactive game with the audience to dispense important information in a fun way. The entire evening was very informative and gave everyone in attendance an idea of what is to come in the near future. In team news, the HAFTR Mock Trial team won its first trial in two years! The trial this year revolves around the story of Dana Malone being attacked with a tire iron, and all the evidence brought into the trial points to P.J. Long, the defendant. The HAFTR team was playing defense when they won, and it was a proud moment for the whole team. As one of the witnesses for the defense, I had an amazing experience with this particular trial, and I can’t wait to see what happens

when the team advances to the intermediate round on February 29th! Congratulations to everyone on defense: Hillel Friedman, Aryeh Lifshitz, Michael Sosnick (attorneys), Chaviva Freedman, Sarah Fuchs, and Tara Seidel (witnesses). In other team news, HAFTR also hosted its annual debate tournament on February 16. Many schools came to debate the issue of whether the U.S. government should provide funding for manned missions to outer space. At the conclusion of the debate, HAFTR earned third place. Congratulations to Matthew Goldstein and Hillel Friedman for their win, and congratulations to the rest of the team for their individual debate wins. Let’s keep up the good work!

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Mathew Goldstein (l) and Hillel Friedman proudly display their trophy earned at the debate tournament.

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Ducks. Potatoes. Wine. Introducing LI’s new bumper crop….the sun. The Long Island Solar Farm, NY’s largest source of green energy. At LIPA, we’re committed to adding renewable energy to our power supply. Like the new Long Island Solar Farm, the State’s largest solar power project.* Purchasing power from the Long Island Solar Farm is just one of the steps we have taken to meet Long Island’s growing energy needs and still have power in reserve. And we’re using electricity produced more efficiently, so we’re leaving a smaller carbon footprint. That’s good for our environment.

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THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

HAFTR happenings

Feb 24

Join the congregation as they begin writing a new Sefer Torah in honor of the Assis & Greenfeld families 11:00am–1:30pm. Everyone will have an opportunity to write a letter in the new Sefer Torah. Special program for children 1160 Broadway Hewlett. www.jewishhewlett.com.

ON THE

Calendar

Shabbat in Korea! Korean-style Shabbat Dinner! Sponsored by Ms. Melanie Erlich. Special program for kids! For more information contact 516-295-3413 or www. jewishhewlett.com

Submit your shul or organization’s events or shiurim to jscalendar@thejewishstar.com. Deadline is Wednesday of the week prior to publication.

Feb 25 HAFTR 34th Annual Dinner THE HEBREW ACADEMY OF THE FIVE TOWNS AND ROCKAWAY will be holding its 34th annual dinner at the Sands at Atlantic Beach, Saturday evening, February 25, at 8 p.m. Michelle and Scott Sulzberger are the Guests of Honor, Miriam and Avi Kestenbaum are the Yachad Awardees, and Rabbi Dr. Gilbert Klaperman, Esq. will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award. For more information, please contact the business office at 569-3370.

FREE WEEKLY INTRODUCTORY CLASS: Free sixweek class meets every Tuesday evening at 8:30 pm. Learn about Kabbalistic concepts from a Torah perspective. The class will include a survey of the Jewish mystical tradition from the Biblical era through the Talmudic era, to the classic texts published in the last thousand years and into the modern era. All welcome! Class conducted at the Young Israel of North Bellmore, 2428 Hamilton Road, 11710. Visit yinb.org or call 516-826-0048 for more information.

Feb 26 Young Israel of Woodmere NY Giants Victory Celebration Breakfast

Photo by Susan Grieco

Young Israel of West Hempstead 56th Annual Dinner Family of the Year Honorees Simeon and Beth Chiger with their children Zachary, Jordan, Melissa and Joshua.

IN CELEBRATION of the fourth Giants Super Bowl victory the 4th Giants breakfast will take place iy”h following the 8:30 minyan. Catering will be by Season’s Benjy Schreier. Sponsorships appreciated. All monies collected will go to Israeli charities Keren Malki for severly handicapped children, and to Keren Orah for blind children. For more information, contact Sol Ripstein at 516 244 4866. Featured speaker will be Rabbi Billet. Jets fans are welcome.

For more information call: (516)374-2665 or email: info@lylibrary.org

books and help grow our collection.

Schedule: ■ Pack Mishloach Manos for others: 11am 12pm and 2pm - 3pm ■ Jewelry making for children in an orphanage: 12pm - 1pm and 3pm - 4pm ■ Make beautiful door hangers for your parent’s bedroom door: 11am - 12pm and 4pm - 5pm ■ Decorate an Asher Yatzar sign: 12pm - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm ■ Write appreciation cards: 2pm - 3pm and 4pm - 5pm ■ Make Duct Tape Tzedakah pouches: 1pm 2pm and 4pm - 5pm ■ ALL DAY: Create a work of art that will be turned into a beautiful wall tile ($36) and be included on our “Wall of Happiness”, ■ Recite a Bracha on a candy, Mitzvah Auction and “Pass On a smile” Cards ■ Explore * Express * Experience Library Hours: Sunday: 11am - 5pm, Monday: Open for Class Trips and Group Visits, Tuesday and Thursday 11am - 7pm, Wednesday 11am 5:30pm 564 Central Ave Cedarhurst, NY 11516

Feb 26 Levi Yitzchak Library Mitzvah Marathon and Book Drive to Commemorate Levi’s 3rd Yahrzeit IN MEMORY OF LEVI YITZCHAK WOLOWIK A’H whose 3rd Yahrzeit will be this Sunday nightMonday, the 4th of Adar, the Library will be hosting a Mitzvah Marathon. Come in and participate in a variety of chessed projects and fun activities from 11am5pm. Bring in your new or gently used Jewish

Feb 26 Chabad of Hewlett

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Calling all Senior Song Birds THE JCC OF THE GREATER FIVE TOWNS, located at 270 Grove Avenue in Cedarhurst, hosts a choir for seniors every Tuesday morning at 11 a.m. for a joyful hour of singing with choir master Zvi Klein. We sing songs in all languages and we perform for local venues. There is a $5.00 optional contribution requested per session. For information please call Sheryl at 516-569-6733 x222.

Jonathan Greenstein

Antique Judaica collector’s corner Dear Jonathan, I have this very pretty torah shield from my family. It is 7.2” long and has a pineapple shaped hallmark on it. Can you tell me more about it? I would rather remain anonymous. New York City You have a very important torah shield. It was made in Augsburg Germany about 230 years ago. The dial in the middle turns to indicate the proper usage. it looks to be in exceptional condition. Sit down, as the value is about $12,000 15,000!!!

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Jonathan Greenstein is the owner and Chief expert of Judaica 1550 1938 for J Greenstein Gallery on Central Avenue in Cedarhurst.please email inquiries to jgreensteinco@aol.com

his week’s portion, Terumah, introduces us to one of the most challenging concepts in Judaism. “Ve’Asu’ Li’ Mikdash, Ve’Shachanti’ Be’Tocham.” “And they shall make for me a sanctuary, and I will dwell in their midst.” (Shemot 25:8) Hashem wants… what, exactly? A home? A sanctuary? The most obvious difficulty with this idea is why, and in fact, how G-d, the endless unlimited One, can or FROM THE HEART would be confined to a OF JERUSALEM limited space? After all, G-d, Hashem, is everywhere. So how can G-d, the Endless One, have a physical home? It is interesting to note that the Ramban (Nachmanides; a 12th century commentary) says that the essence of this Mishkan (Tabernacle) was to recreate the Sinai experience, wherein G-d’s presence Rabbi Binny dwelled on the mounFreedman tain. (19:20). In other words, the mitzvah to build a physical space on earth for G-d’s presence stems from the first physical place where G-d chose to ‘dwell’ on earth: Mount Sinai. And indeed, the very notion of receiving the Torah from G-d at Mount Sinai raises, essentially, the same question as does the Mishkan: why did we, as a people have to go to a specific mountain in order to receive

NO NEED TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE!

the Torah? If G-d is everywhere, what difference did it make where we were when we received the Torah? This mitzvah forces us to confront one of the most basic themes in Judaism: the seeming need for creating sacred space. This central position in Judaism is one we are confronted with every time we go to pray in a synagogue. In fact, the ultimate and inevitable result of this philosophy has the entire Jewish people, and one might easily argue (based on the disproportionate attention in the media) the entire world focused on the crisis brewing in the Middle East. Two groups of people completely at odds over a strip of land so small, that the name ‘Israel’ doesn’t even fit inside the country on standard globes. Why is this piece of property so important? And of course, the essence of this struggle is very clearly not just over the land of Israel, but also over the city of Jerusalem, and specifically over a small mountain made holy because of a building, long since destroyed, which sat on top of a very special rock. Known as the Even Yetzirah, or Foundation Rock, Jewish tradition suggests that it was from this holy slab of rock, over which the Temple was built three thousand years ago that the earth was formed. Can you imagine? The entire Middle East crisis, five wars in the last fifty years, and the majority of the world poised for what may become a global confrontation, all over who gets the deed to… a rock? Is any space worth so much pain and suffering? Are we all mad? What lies at the root of this concept of sacred space that is

apparently so essential to what Judaism stands for? Judaism has never suggested that one comes closer to the spiritual essence of G-d by abandoning the physical world. In Judaism, the goal is not to find G-d on top of Mount Sinai; the goal is to bring G-d down below. Can I infuse the physical world with the spiritual essence of G-d? This is the ultimate question posited to us as a people at Sinai. And this is why the Jewish people attempt to infuse the very spiritual experience of Sinai, which began with three days of separation and purification (19:10-11,15), with the very physical experience of the Golden Calf. But they were sadly mistaken, because in the end, they were not infusing the physical with the spiritual, they were merely creating a purely physical experience alongside a purely spiritual one. There is a beautiful Mishnah in Ethics of the Fathers, which teaches that a person who interrupts his Torah study by exclaiming: “How beautiful is this tree!” literally is worthy of forfeiting his life. Rav Shimshon Raphael Hirsch points out that this does not mean a person should not interrupt his Torah study to wonder at the beauty of the trees. Rather, it means that if the beauty of nature and the world is an interruption of one’s Torah study, then there is something wrong with said person’s relationship with Torah. Because the beauty inherent in all of creation is not an interruption of one’s relationship with G-d, it is part of it. All of which is why G-d’s response, according to Rashi, to the debacle of the

Golden Calf was to build a Mishkan. In this Mishkan was a Holy, and a Holy of Holies. And inside the Holy of Holies, on top of the ark, were two cherubs, little golden angelwinged… idols! And these cherubs are at the epicenter of the holiest spot in Judaism. Because only in such a spiritual place can we recognize the challenge and the value of synthesizing both the physical and the spiritual into one, with the aim of bringing G-d into the world, through us. This is the concept of sacred space. Every great idea and every worthy goal needs a focal point, and if the mission of the Jewish people on this world is to bring G-d into the world, then the challenge of infusing the physical world with spiritual beauty begins with that rock where tradition has it the world was first created, because the entire purpose of physical creation, was to allow us as human beings to be partners with G-d in creating a holy world. And the definition of holiness is seeing G-d in every physical reality, every flower and every tree, every bug and every grape. Which is why we need a land, because only in connecting with land that is our own, can we really achieve as a people that ideal of transforming the physical world into the spiritual majesty of building a place for the endlessness of G-d in our seemingly limited physical reality. Rav Binny Freedman, Rosh Yeshivat Orayta in Jerusalem’s Old City is a Company Commander in the IDF reserves, and lives in Efrat with his wife Doreet and their four children. His weekly Internet ‘Parsha Bytes’ can be found at www.orayta.org

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THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

Sacred space?

1 Adar 5772 • February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE THE JEWISH STAR

16 Sabers: Top RowRivkie Katz, Zahava Schwartz, Deena Warshaw, Eliora Habshush, Ruchie Einhorn, Sara Schapira Middle Row- Renee Hindy, Hudi Gallis, Bayla Bach, Rivki Eckstein, Ruthie Besalel Bottom row- Devora Eisenberg, Sharoni Knoll

Hebrew only please! A Jewish newspaper should have a Hebrew column. So here it is. We will try to maintain a level of vocabulary so that it will be easy enough for students to read and interesting enough for those more fluent to enjoy.

The death of Avraham (Yair) Stern

By Rabbi Noam Himelstein

Story of sterns murder by the british in 1942 (70 years ago this week). quick note that whether one agreed or disagreed with him (he fought the british to create a jewish state in 1942) he certainly loved the people and the land.

Photo courtesy Shalhevet

Shalhevet Sabers: The game’s the thing By Malka Eisenberg Midreshet Shalhevet opened with great promise and, although it almost closed after its first year, it burst once again to life and now is a full four-year high school with over 80 students, regents, APs, and a basketball team. The basketball team was initially called the Sparks and that first year most of the students whether they knew how to play basketball or not were on the team. But then again the same students had to do everything and were in Torah bowl, college bowl and choir, too. The thing they had and still have is spirit, the unity of a team, a sisterhood of players, impeccable midot, and the sheer joy of playing a game together. Three of the original team members have stayed on the team and are now seniors, veterans of the sport, and inspirational team players. With their current coach, the team has strengthened and coalesced. They renamed the team the Sabers, their defense is stronger and their practices more focused and more frequent. They have found a good fit with this coach, Ilona Diamond, who radiates respect, concern, and a sense of purpose towards the team and they reciprocate. Their final game of the season was last Sunday, and although they played valiantly, they did not win the game. They have come close to winning in other games at times but, as the saying goes, “it’s not whether you win or lose but how you play the game.” They show great kindness and concern not only for each other but for members of the opposing team, apologizing when inadvertently knocking over a member of the opposing team and stopping to help her up. One Saber, after retrieving the ball from an opposing player,

said “sorry” on the way up and made a basket. Classic. One of the original team members and a senior, Deena Warshaw, from Far Rockaway, assessed her feelings after the game. “As a senior it would’ve been nice to take part in a victory, however the team is my family; we work hard together, put forth genuine effort, and I will miss playing with them.” Eliora Habshush, a senior from Brooklyn, said, “I have been a dedicated team player of the Shalhevet basketball team for the past four years. I enjoyed playing every game and being able to play for the fun of it. Being on the team was a great experience and I’m going to miss the Shalhevet basketball family.” The third four-year player, senior Devora Eisenberg, from Woodmere, said, “I’m so proud to have been part of a team that was so united and motivated, who didn’t care just about winning but about having fun. I’ll miss playing with them and very excited for them to make history with their future wins.” Diamond gave a statement of her thoughts and feelings at the end of the season. “I cannot even begin to express the pride I have towards my girls. Coaching Shalhevet’s basketball team was an incredible experience that I look forward to continuing. Although we may not have won, I feel as if I have succeeded in my job this year. It is very important to me to instill the proper foundation of hard work, dedication, proper sportsmanship, and a sense of Derech Eretz in my players. I not only had the opportunity to see the girls improve their game, but I believe that each of my girls really took those four things to heart, and I couldn’t be happier. I wish the best of luck to all the teams moving forward into the playoffs and I look forward to meeting them again next year on the court.”

Vantage point-Jerusalem Atop one of the highest mountains and facing the hills of Jerusalem, I often stare out and see the golden hue of the ancient walls. The plaza outside our Beit Midrash is a great place to look out and think about my experience in the holy land, spending a year of learning and growthnot just a “gap” to college. Although I’ve only been here a few months, the experience has been life changing. I did not originally expect to be spending the year learning in Yeshiva in Israel. After much thought Kevin Rychik and consideration and a brief visit, I decided to spend the year at Yeshivat Sharei Mevaseret Zion. I believe I

made a great choice. Great rabbeim from diverse backgrounds, from a graduate of Yale Medical School to the Mir and kids with a modern orthodox background but from all over North America: Texas, Chicago, Tennessee and Canada-all brought together in an amazing atmosphere. Combined with trips around the country, we marvel as we follow the footsteps of our forefathers. I’ve already made great friendships that will last a long time. Living in the land of Israel, learning Torah for its own sake and studying many aspects of Judaism in an intellectually challenging program is nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. In the coming weeks I wish to share with you the experiences of other Five Towners, like me, spending their post high school year in Israel. Through words and photos I hope to bring you a little closer to our vantage point.

Rabbi Noam Himelstein studied in Yeshivat Har Etzion and served in the Tanks Corps of the IDF. He has taught in yeshiva high schools, post-high school women’s seminaries, and headed the Torah MiTzion Kollel in Melbourne, Australia. He currently teaches at Yeshivat Orayta in Jerusalem, and lives with his wife and six children in Neve Daniel, Gush Etzion.

17 THE JEWISH STAR February 24, 2012 HEBREWDATE • 1 Adar 5772

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DENTISTRY BECAUSE WE CARE EVENT Our dental practice has served the Five Towns Community for over 40 years. As our way of saying thanks, we would like to give back! We understand that many people cannot afford dental care. On March 4th, starting at 9:00a.m., our team is donating our time to provide free dental care to those truly in need. We realize that in these hard economic times people may not have the resources to go to the dentist. If you know of anyone who is in need of care, please have them give us a call to schedule an appointment. We feel that everyone should have the opportunity for treatment to maintain a Smile 4 A Lifetime. We will be seeing patients by appointment only. We are happy to have Pediatric Dentist Dr. Denise Cohen joining us for any children that may be in need.

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Liquor & Wine Largest Selection Of Kosher Wines In New York At Prices Too Low To Advertise!

PURIM SPECIALS

SPECIALS ARE WITH AD ONLY Mony Classic Elat

Rashi

Bartenura

Rashi

Light Pink, Red and White Concord

Moscato

Claret and Black Muscat

3.99 750 ml

2 for $13.99

With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

Capcanes

Naturally Sweet Concord Grape $

Peraj Petita

750 ml

3 for 9.99 $

With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

Barkan

Teal Lake Moscato D’Aussie

17.99

3 for 19.99 With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

by case

$5.99 perbybottle case

With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

$14.99 per bottle

Ben Ami Z’Mora

$8.99 perbybottle case

8.99 $7.99 per bottle by case

With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

Zachlawi Arak

Vodka

26.99 750 ml 2 for $50.99

9.99750 ml

7.99 $

Moses Kosher for Passover

$6.99

Semi-Sweet Cabernet Sauvignon

Classic

7.99 750 ml

by case

Kedem

3.99

$9.49 per bottle

3 for $9.99 With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

9.99 per bottle

Semi-Sweet Cabernet Sauvignon $ 750 ml

19.99 750 ml

per bottle With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

Don Alfonso D

Dalton Canaan

Cabernet Sauvignon C & Sauvignon Blanc

Red and White

6.99 750 ml $

2 for 11.99 $5.49 per bottle by case With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

13.99

$12.49 perbybottle case 750 ml

With Coupon. Not To Be Combined. Exp 3/9/12

New York’s Finest and Largest Selection of Kosher Wines & Spirits 343 Rockaway Tpke. Lawrence, NY 11559 Prices Tel: (516) 371-1133 Valid Thru 3/9/12

Hours: Mon-Wed 10am-8pm • Thurs-Sat 10am-9pm Sun 12am-7pm

Kosher Wine & Single Malt Tasting Every Thursday: 4-8 p.m. Friday: 1-5 p.m.

538061

OUR LOWEST PRICES EVER!!!