March 7, 2014

This week in Torah 4 Bookworm’s Purim 5 Oscars pump Judy’s appetite 9 Calendar 11 School news 15

THE JEWISH Vol 13, No 10 n March 7, 2014 / 5 adar II 5774

Facebook.com/thejewishstar

www.thejewishstar.com

twitter.com/jewishstarNY

Kitov shuts book on Far rockaway

IRAN’S TOMB Heirs of Persian Jews prize site that’s tied to Esther and Mordechai

By Lonnie Ostrow Special to The Jewish Star

I first learned of the burial place of Mordechai and Esther from an Iranian immigrant with whom I worked back in 1996. “Robbie” would tell me many stories about his family’s brave escape from Iran to America in the early 1980s, occasionally shedding a tear when speaking about his relatives and friends who were left behind in a country so hateful to the few remaining Jews.

But when the holiday of Purim rolled Above, symbolic coffins of Morde- around, Robbie chai and Esther. Below, the Hama- would liven up with dan (Shushan) Mausoleum. tales from his youth.

He’d tell us what it was like to celebrate Purim in Persia — the place where it all took place.

At the centerpiece of Robbie’s Purim stories was a tradition I’d never heard of, at a place I never knew existed – an annual gathering at the tomb of Mordechai and Esther to hear the reading of the Megilah. Robbie would describe in vivid detail the festive nature in which hundreds of Iranian Jews would flock — many in costume — to hear the story of Queen Esther beneath the dome of her final resting place. And next to Esther, her Uncle Mordechai, the man who guided her in a valiant attempt to save the Jews of Persia from extinction more than 2,000 years ago.

“But we never learned about this place in yeshiva,” I protested. “And it’s not mentioned in the Megilah.

We’ve all heard about the Tomb of Rachel, the Tomb of King David. But the tomb of Esther?”

STAR

Rabbi Yecheskel Kaminsky on the phone at Kitov Bookstore.

By Malka Eisenberg Far Rockaway’s Jewish community is loosing one of its few remaining commercial anchors.

After 35 years of providing a full range of seforim, from the esoteric to the familiar, Rabbi Yecheskel Kaminsky will shutter his Kitov Hebrew Books and Gifts after Passover.

Located at 1847 Mott Ave., on an active business street that is home to a church and a hair salon that offers tattoos, the store has remained a destination for book

enthusiasts from near and far even as most of Far Rockaway’s frum shoppers gravitated to the Five Towns.

When Kaminsky first opened, Far Rockaway had numerous Jewish-centric establishments. Now, what remains are Kosher World Supermarket and Kosher Pizza World, both around the corner from Kitov on Cornaga Avenue.

“There’s no reason to come to Mott Avenue anymore,” Rabbi Yitzchak Friedman, a rebbe at Rambam Mesivta in Lawrence, Continued on page 12

thanks, joe! jew-hating soviet reds birthed ‘apartheid Week’

By Ben Cohen, JNS.org #Rethink2014 is one of the more creative Twitter hashtags I’ve recently encountered. Launched by students opposing the hatefest otherwise known as “Israeli Apartheid Week” (IAW), the hashtag is designed for incorporation into tweets that explain why this ghastly annual event is a series of calumnies and lies from beginning to end.

Some examples: “I oppose Israel Apartheid Week because I know what apartheid actually means.”

“I oppose Israel Apartheid Week because I’m sitting next to an Arab-Israeli Muslim IDF soldier on the bus in Jerusalem.”

“I oppose Israel Apartheid Week because it promotes anti-Semitism on campus.”

There are literally thousands of tweets in similar fashion, in yet another demonstration of the pushback against the IAW bigots that has, thankfully, gathered pace this year.

My own contribution to the hashtag, I have to confess, might have been a little obscure. “I oppose Israeli Apartheid Week because the analogy is a smear invented by the antiSemitic USSR,” I said. But there is, in my view, an important truth here that I want to elaborate on.

After the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945, the Soviet Union became the main source of statesponsored anti-Semitism in the world. The Communist leader Joseph Stalin, who counterposed ideas of patriotism to the “internationalism” of his opponents in the party, started depicting Jews as a disloyal fifth column whose true allegiance was to Zionism, rather than the socialist motherland. (Sound familiar?) Amidst all the dark talk of “rootless cosmopolitans”—a euphemism for “Jews”—Stalin, many historians now agree, began making plans for a mass deportation of Jewish citizens to SiContinued on page 6

Continued on page 3

Shabbat Candlelighting 5:34 pm. Shabbat ends 6:45 pm. 72 minute zman 7:04 pm. Torah Reading: Vayikra • Move clocks ahead at 2 am March 9. Change smoke detector batteries.

ON LiNe Facebook.com/TheJewishStar • Follow us on

Twitter/JewishStarNY

686684

Like us on

all the time

prst std Us postage paid garden City, ny 11530 permit no 301

.COM

686802

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

2

Continued from page 1 “That’s probably because none of your teachers ever visited Iran,” Robbie shot back. “Since the 1979 revolution, and even before that, Iran hasn’t exactly been a great place for Jewish tourism.

“Israel? Everyone’s been there.

But Iran? Jews have had a horrible time getting out for so long; getting in really isn’t an option. But still, Iran is Persia, or Shushan from ancient times. Lots of Jewish history there. The tomb of Esther is probably the most important of these places.”

Indeed, for centuries, the Jews of Iran have been flocking to the Tomb of Esther, located in the city of Hamadan. And not just for Purim. Bris’s, bar mitzvahs, weddings and other religious rituals have taken place at this historic shrine.

From the outside, this stone structure appears as though it dates back many centuries.

Historians say it was built above the underground graves of our Purim protagonists some five to seven hundred years ago. The dome that crowns the mausoleum was said to have once been covered in blue tiles. However, most have fallen away through the years. The inside of this ancient structure houses a sitting room, a small sanctuary, and the main chamber featuring two above-ground wooden coffins covered in brightly colored cloths. The ornate coffins are said to be symbolic, resting several feet above the actual graves of Mordechai and Esther. Hebrew lettering is inscribed on the walls above, along with a wooden cabinet that houses a 300 year old Torah scroll.

Oral tradition of Iranian Jews has been passed down through the centuries about this sacred landmark.

The story most commonly told is that Esther and Mordechai — after living out their years at the royal palace — were buried in the city of Shushan (now Hamadan), next to one another. The shrine above their graves was built many years later by the Persian Jewish community, destroyed in the 14th century by Mongolian invaders and rebuilt in 1602, according to archeologists.

In the early 1970s, the Iranian Jewish Society commissioned architect Yassi (Elias) Gabby to renovate this historic site. Houses around the tomb were demolished, making the shrine more accessible from the nearby street. An underground chapel was also built for worshipers, featuring a skylight in the shape of a Star of David. Some claim that this unique Jewish Star is the only one visible from space — a fact I cannot personally verify.

Holier than cemetery

The plaza outside the old structure is cluttered with dozens of ancient Jewish grave stones. Through the centuries, some prominent local Jews apparently managed to secure burial plots outside the shrine — a place many considered holier than the main Jewish cemetery in Hamadan. Sadly, most of these stones have been broken by vandals, or damaged by time, rendering it difficult to read the names of our Persian ancestors. Others have been

covered over by a modern stone walkway.

As for provenance, there is no documentation to verify that this ancient tomb is indeed the authentic burial site of Queen Esther and her uncle, Mordechai. Spoiler Alert: The story of Megalith Esther ends with the death of Haman and his ten sons, followed by the preservation of this miraculous event through random acts of kindness to celebrate the Purim holiday.

When last we leave Esther, she is still married to King Achashverosh (King Xerxes according to most historians). Mordechai is given a promotion to a prominent position in the King’s royal court.

There are no written accounts or commentaries that indicate a precise date of death, or location in Persia where our heroes are laid to rest. All we have is word-of-mouth passed on through the generations of Iranian Jews dating back to the days of Shushan. In recent decades, the Iranian government has closed the site to visitors, only allowing Jews to enter the tomb on Purim day itself – a detail relayed to me with great emotion by Robbie, my former colleague.

In Israel, a competing legend identifies the final resting place of Queen Esther as being on the outskirts of the village of Baram, in the upper Galilee, near Safed.

Alternate site?

In the year 1215, Rabbi Menachem Ha-Hevroni wrote that while visiting the Galilee, he came across the tomb of Queen Esther, “who, during her lifetime, had instructed her son Cyrus to bring her there for burial.”

King Cyrus was the son and royal successor of Xerxes. Israeli settlers in the middle ages have written about holding special celebrations at this nondescript location on Shushan Purim (the day after Purim), including the reading of the Megilah. In 1837, a major earthquake in Galilee caused mass destruction of all the ancient sites in this region. This alternate tomb of Queen Esther was among those lost during this natural disaster. Her “burial site” is believed by some historians to be located in the ruins of a building found in what is now Baram National Park.

For historical purposes, it would be comforting to know if either of these two sites is indeed the true final resting place of our Purim patriarchs. However, to the handful of remaining Jews in Iran, the tomb of Mordechai and Esther represents so much more than an ancient burial ground. For centuries, it has been a place of prayer, gathering and observance — a centerpiece of Jewish life in a nation where Judaism teeters on the brink of extinction some 2,500 years after Haman and his sons hanged from the gallows.

Lonnie Ostrow, a public relations, marketing, and web design professional, is in-house marketing director, editor and office manager for bestselling novelist Barbara Taylor Bradford. He is a member of Congregation Ohav Sholom in Merrick, New York, along with his wife, Simona and their two daughters.

At 8th Kosher Food & Wine Expo, it’s all in Good Taste perience, and understand modern trends and how to employ them in their own homes.

Long gone are the days when kosher wine was limBeyond the tables of neatly stacked wine glasses, the soft stream of reds and whites became subtly au- ited to the sweet, sacramental kind (so thick a spoon dible as the crimson glow of another wintry sunset could stand up in it — and yes, my father drank four full cups on Passover). California, Spain, France, Itfaded behind Pier 60 at Chelsea Piers in Manhattan.

In its eighth year, the Kosher Food & Wine Experi- aly, New Zealand and most prolifically Israel, among ence has again surpassed even the expectations of the other regions, presented an array of fantastic wines, event’s organizers, who have been challenged to keep many with sophisticated, aromatic blends derived from both large vineyards and small family-owned up with its demand and popularity.

“The first year, we had 350 people and half of the labels.

Covenant, out of the Napa Valley, has presented tickets were given away,” quipped Jay Buchsbaum, VP Marketing for Royal Wine Corp, the event’s organizer. consistently good wines each year — of note, their Lavan (Chardonnay) and Red C (Cabernet).

With so many Israeli wines (and a wide price range) to choose from, my top picks of the evening are the Castel Petit Castel, a fruity table wine with a blend of Merlot, Cabernet and Petit Verdot; Grand Vin, their premier wine is rich, oaky (aged for 22 months in new French oak) and deeply fruity, a great choice for special occasions.

Psagot’s Single Vineyard was another favorite, slightly peppery and a great complement for meats. New on the scene and lesser known is Pacifica, the first dedicated kosher winery in the Oregon/Washington region. A small winery, Pacifica produces only 2000 cases per year, but winemaker Phillip Jones (formerly of Goose Bay Winery) takes great pleasure in crafting their wine, his favorite being Meritage, an interesting blend of four grapes (Cab, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec) and aged for 12 months in medium French oak. Spanish wine such as Capçanes Peraj Ha’Abib captures a spicy fruitiness; more mellow is their Petita Rosat, a delicious and fragrant Rose wine.

Even if wine is not your passion, food tastings provided an insight into the newest trends in kosher cooking and fine cuisine. Chefs at many of today’s best kosher restaurants are classically trained and skilled, applying knowledge of techniques traditionally used in non-koTwo of the stations at the Kosher Food and Wine Experience sher food to the kosher table. The 2014, at Chelsea Piers, presented food and wine tastings. result: an explosion of flavors and textures carefully layered into so “Now we’re sold out in advance — with over 1,600 many signature dishes.

When kosher lamb bacon appeared on the scene a people!”

What started as a means towards enabling con- few years back, it was innovative and revolutionary; sumers and retailers to taste different kosher wines, at KFWE 2014, the development of kosher charcuterie especially new releases, has morphed into a premier (cured meats) was apparent and unmistakable.

Executive Chef David Kolotkin of The Prime Grill tasting event, featuring a wide representation of wines from all around the world. Just as significant acknowledged this as “trend of the year,” and prehas been the evolution of food tastings taking a more sented some of their house-made charcuterie, a pronounced role in the event, with top kosher restau- salumi (aged nine months) that was spicy-smoky and rants and caterers from the tri-state area presenting deeply satisfying all by itself.

Incorporating it into the dish, Chagall Bistro, a signature samplings, a far cry from the small, light new French bistro in Brooklyn’s Park Slope, featured hors d’oeuvres offered at the original Experience.

Though the event has changed over the years — cured duck pastrami with a fruit relish and balsamicthis year’s, on Feb. 24, featured an annexed dessert ginger emulsion.

Wolf & Lamb’s Pastrami Wrapped Marinated Aprilounge on a docked yacht — the goal has remained the same: “To expand horizons of existing consum- cots with ginger glaze and pineapple chutney was a ers, to expand the palate of the consumers,” stated blend of sweet, pungent and smoky, perhaps the most memorable dish of the night, despite its simplicity.

Buchsbaum.

Asked about the biggest trend in kosher food and When asked if he noticed any change in the guests attending the event, the answer was a resounding wine, Buchsbaum cracked a smile and replied, “Ko“yes,” noting how much more informed the average sher consumers are ready to spend the money on quality.” When quality matters, it’s clear that the fupatron was compared to earlier years.

“Today’s guests are more informed about food, ture of kosher choices are on the rise.

Naomi Ross is a kosher cooking instructor and food more informed about wine and more knowledgeable about what they are interested in tasting,” he said. writer and can be reached at cookingconcepts@gmail.

They are coming not only to taste, but to learn, ex- com.

By Naomi Ross

Special to The Jewish Star

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

Esther’s tomb…

3

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

4

Living up to life’s challenges, with G-d’s help Rabbi Freedman is off this week. We are reprinting a previously published column. ometimes, heroes are the most ordinary people, who rise to the most extraordinary occasions. Like Noam Apter.

The sweet light of the Shabbat candles and the singing of Shalom Aleichem, a rabbi Binny song of peace, greeted Freedman Friday night in the Yeshiva at Otniel. Except that while the students and their families were singing of peace, wire cutters were slicing through the security fence.

While parents were blessing their children with light, and seeing in them the majesty of creation, two other “children,” armed with M-16 automatic assault rifles and grenades, were making their way into the dining hall, bringing only darkness and destruction.

At Otniel, in the Hebron foothills south of Jerusalem, boys add two years to their army service in order to combine army service with Jewish studies. Noam, along with Gavriel, 17, Tzvika, 19, and Yehuda, 20, were in the kitchen. In the blink of an eye, light became darkness and the sweet sound of Shabbat melodies was lost in the horrible sounds of gunfire.

Two terrorists, members of the Islamic Jihad organization, entered the kitchen wearing IDF army uniforms and began shooting immediately.

Under fire, Noam Apter ran towards the door separating the kitchen from the dining room where over 100 unsuspecting people, young boys and families, were welcoming Shabbat. Wounded and bleeding profusely, with his last strength, he managed to lock both locks and throw the key away. He locked himself in with the terrorists, preventing them from entering the dining hall, and raining From The hearT oF jeruSalem

S

death and destruction on all those inside.

Noam Apter paid for this act of heroism with his life. The terrorists murdered him, and the other three boys with him.

It is difficult to imagine what pure terror such a moment must contain. To be at such close quarters, with no way of defending yourself, facing evil in its purest form, the range of emotions that must inevitably sweep over a person is impossible to describe. And to overcome every natural instinct of self-preservation with the realization that life always means opportunity, and that we are always here for a purpose… There are those who, in a moment, achieve what most people strive for an entire lifetime to become. his week’s portion, VaYikra, introduces what is essentially an entire book of the Torah almost completely dedicated to the concept of sacrifices in the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later the Temple.

“Vayikra el Moshe, va’yedaber elav me’Ohel Moed le’mor: ‘Daber el B’nei Yisrael ve’amarta a’lehem: adam ki yakriv mekem Korban la’Hashem, min ha’be’hemah, min ha’bakar, u’min ha’tzon takrivu et korbanchem’.” (“And He called to Moshe, and He spoke to him from the tent of meeting [the Ohel Moed] saying: ‘Speak to the children of Israel and say to them: a man who offers up [brings close] from amongst you a sacrifice to G-d, from animals from the cattle or from the flock [sheep] offer up [bring close] your sacrifice [offering]’.” (Vayikra 1:1-2) Why does G-d suddenly decide to call Moshe before speaking to him? What is the difference between speaking to Moshe and calling him? After all, if G-d is calling Moshe, isn’t He by definition already speaking to him? And why does G-d specifically

T

choose to call Moshe here, just as the Torah is introducing the concept of sacrifices?

We may draw from an interesting peculiarity at the beginning of the Vayikra portion in an actual Torah scroll: the word Vayikra is written with a small aleph.

Jewish tradition explains this detail as the result of a fascinating dialogue between Moshe and G-d. Moshe, described in the Torah as “the most humble man on the face of the earth” (Bamidbar 12:3), was uncomfortable with G-d the Omnipotent calling him. Moshe felt he was unworthy of the honor of being called

by G-d, so he wrote the word Vayaker (without the aleph), meaning that G-d happened to appear to him, but G-d insisted on saying He called Moshe directly.

So Moshe wrote the word, but with a small aleph, indicating his discomfort with this honor.

In other words, the book of Vayikra which introduces the concept of sacrifice and opens with the phenomenon of Moshe being called

by G-d, flows from the idea of humility as represented by Moshe, the most humble man to ever live.

People think humility is to believe that I am nothing; in truth, it is more about recognizing that Hashem is everything.

To be humble is not to believe that you are not great; on the contrary, imagine that one night Leonard Bernstein falls ill and the New York Philharmonic is set for a performance in the White House. So Zubin Mehta is called to take his place because only a great conductor could fill such shoes. And imagine Zubin responds that he is not a great conductor at all, and declines. This is not humility, it is stupidity.

Humility is recognizing that your greatness has nothing to do with you. It is a gift

Humility is recognizing that your greatness has nothing to do with you. It is a gift from G-d, and your challenge is what to do with it.

from G-d, and your challenge is what to do with it. ayikra is not just being called, it’s a calling.

Moshe, all alone, shepherding his flock in the deserts of Midian, sees a burning bush, but ultimately it is what he hears that is of paramount significance; he hears the voice of G-d, coming from deep within himself, calling him to stand up to the challenge of who he was meant to be.

In truth, the difference between a calling (keriah) and a coincidence (mikreh) is only in our minds. Moshe might easily have viewed the burning bush as a fascinating occurrence, but he understood that it was a calling. Perhaps how often we feel we are “called upon” by G-d is a function of whether we are able to recognize everything around us as a calling emanating from Hashem’s voice.

So where does this ability to see the hidden calling in everything around us come from? Maybe it stems from the trait of anavah (humility).

A person may lose faith with G-d because he prayed for something personal, and “it just didn’t happen — G-d wasn’t listening.”

When was the last time you heard someone say, “I have been praying for world peace, and it just isn’t happening so I don’t believe in G-d”? If the center of your universe is yourself, there is little room for G-d.

What was incredible about Moshe was not that he was an anav (humble person) but that, with all that he did, he stayed an anav.

Perhaps this is the hidden essence of what the korbanot (sacrifices) were all about: Animal sacrifices represent the physical world and all that I am given in it; in taking the animal, I succeed in offering it all back up to G-d.

There is nothing more powerful, and more meaningful, than the gift of hearing that voice that calls us to who we are meant to be, and living up to its challenges. May we all be so blessed.

Shabbat Shalom.

Columnist@TheJewishStar.com

V

Vayikra: Uniting body and soul to serve G-d I

n his Yizkor sermon on Yom Kippur 1963 (“Body and Soul”), Rabbi Norman Lamm introduced a fascinating idea in the name of Rabbi Moshe Avigdor Amiel.

Before Avraham, humans were referred to as basar (literally “humans” or “flesh”) — “Man shall leave his father and mother, and cling to his wife so they rabbi avi Billet may become one basar (human/flesh).” “And all the basar (humans) died [in the flood].”

After Avraham is introduced to us, people are referred to as nefesh (literally “souls”) — “And Avram took … the nefesh (people) they [taught] in Charan.”

Rabbi Lamm’s sermon is a work of art, worthy of being read in its entirety.

For our parsha it opens the door to a similar theme – that for the most part (nine times), all those who sin and are mandated to bring an offering are refered to as nefesh, with the exception being the first person, who is referred to as Adam (a human being).

(1:2) ParSha oF The Week

It is curious to note that Onkelos and Targum Yonatan don’t seem to distinguish between the terms (Onkelos calls both an Enash, while TY calls the Adam an enash, and the nefesh a Bar Nash), and yet the distinction is not lost on other commentaries.

Rashi notes (1:2) that the use of the word Adam is meant to specifically bring to mind the man Adam, “Just as Adam did not bring any offerings from stolen property, since the world belonged to him, so should everyone bring offerings only from their own property.”

Rashi also takes the specific usage of the word nefesh in 2:1 as a springboard to suggest that since it is only a pauper who offers a flour offering (instead of a more expensive animal), it is viewed by G-d as if he is literally offering his soul (his nefesh).

Ibn Ezra refers to the nefesh as an indication of a whole-hearted donation. While Ramban (4:2) explains how the accidental sin is sometimes brought about through a thought that originates within the soul. Since it is the soul, in that sense, that is sinning, it is the soul that needs atonement.

Rabbenu Bachaye is a more holistic in his

approach (or should I say whole-istic) when he suggests that the word nefesh refers to the combined body and soul. (With apologies to Rabbi Lamm.)

A distinction needs to be made, however in exactly how the Adam and the nefesh are presented in our parsha. It says, “When an Adam will bring his offering close” (1:2) and “When a nefesh sins” (multiple times). In a spiritual sense, this is easily understood: when a person sins, it is his nefesh, his spiritual side, which can’t afford the sin, it is the spiritual side that suffers on account of it.

The Adam, the human side, probably derives pleasure from the sin. The Torah therefore warns the Adam, “You are the responsible party! You have to bring the offering!

Don’t allow your nefesh to sin!”

At the same time, the Adam, the physical aspect of his existence, is the one bringing the offering. He needs a reminder to behave, to remain physically pure, so he can complete his offering bringing, to help achieve the atonement that his body and soul so desperately need.

Our existence represents a duality.

We all contain a body and a soul.

It is this duality of our existence, that we all contain a body and a soul, that drives everything we do. Both need sustenance. Our bodies need nourishment and need to be kept in decent working condition to last as long as we hope for ourselves.

And our souls also need nourishment and need to be kept in decent working condition so we may be blessed to last as long as we hope for ourselves. I’ll leave the body’s nourishment instruction to the doctors and the physical health experts.

But the soul’s nourishment comes from living a life of Torah and chesed, of being aware of mitzvot and doing our best to fulfill them, of including Torah learning in our weekly (if not daily) schedules, and of fighting with the body in its pursuit of sinful pleasures.

Thank G-d there are plenty of pleasures in the world that do not conflict with the soul and are either not sinful or are even mitzvot!

Let us pray that we can achieve an alignment of our bodies and our souls so that the instructions given to Adam and nefesh can mesh together as our souls and bodies complement each other in the service of G-d.

When the spirit and physical unite, they become a driving force for achieving greatness, on individual and communal levels.

Columnist@TheJewishStar.com

From Rabbi Fohrman, a foretaste of Purim learning jeopardy to do it. Yes, there had been a time when Judah had abandoned the child of a rival mother, when he allowed a child of Rachel to languish in slavery while he and his other brothers went home to their bereaved father.

But it will not happen again. This time, Judah will willingly become the slave so that a child of Rachel may go free.”

Rabbi Fohrman continues his narrative teaching with the following question: “When did Benjamin ever repay Judah?”

“It took centuries, but the answer is — right now, right here in the Megillah. Judah had been safe, but had traded his own safety for the life of Benjamin, a child from the other side of the family. And now, centuries later, Esther, a descendant of Benjamin was safe. But she would sacrifice that safety, so that the Judahites, from the other side of the family, might have a chance at survival. In so doing, Esther knows the historical significance of her actions.

And she rightfully echoes Judah, the man whose kindness she now repays. …”

Rabbi Fohrman closes this teaching with the following observation titled, “A Hidden Story of Family Reconciliation”: “Over time, that rivalry between the

FEBRUARY 1 – MARCH 31, 2014

FEBRUARY 1 – MARCH 31, 2014

Silhouette® Window Shadings

Silhouette® Window Shadings

$25 REBATE $25 on Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades REBATE

PER UNIT*

®

®

PER UNIT*

Fills a room with beautiful light. on Duette Architella Honeycomb Shades Fills aWindow room with light. $50 REBATE Silhouette Shadings diffusebeautiful the sun’s rays, filling ®

®

® your home with natural light.

So, you can the rely sun’s less on Silhouette Window Shadings diffuse rays, filling electric lighting.

Brilliant idea.

Ask for details. your home with natural light. So, you can rely less on

electric lighting. Brilliant idea. Ask for details.

®

PER UNIT*

$50 REBATE

Serving the Five Towns and surrounding areas

PER

UNIT* on Silhouette® Window Shadings Roman Shades and Vignette® Modern on Silhouette® Window Shadings and Vignette® Modern Roman Shades

www.distinctivewindowfashions.com

children of Leah and the children of Rachel would continue to express itself. Ages later, rival kings would lead the two halves of the family, and the bitter divide would reassert itself. But, eventually, at the close of the Bible, in the Megillah, there is a ray of hope. Judah’s healing words once again find an echo. Esther risks all for the Children of Leah, and Judah’s heroic act is knowingly reciprocated. The long arc of a circle had finally been closed.”

The actual Megillah narrative is, in some respects, a bit more severe than that interpreted above by Rabbi Fohrman. We are all cognizant of Mordechai’s admonitions to Esther that finally prompts her actions.

Those admonitions and the motivations behind the players in this drama are sharply dealt with by Rabbi Aharon Lichtenstein in his eloquent essay, “If You remain Silent at This Time: Esther’s Moral Development and Ours” [Yeshivat Har Etzion, 5744].

I strongly suggest that you and your families read this essay before Purim, together with Rabbi Fohrman’s work as well as his video on this theme, so as to place you in a proper frame of mind and reference as we enter, with G-d’s grace, this most joyous holiday season.

••• Here is a direct link to 12 audio shiurim (MP3) on Purim and the Megillah from Rabbi David Etengoff’s Rav Soloveitchik archives— tinyurl.com/nylbwj9 And here’s a link to Rabbi David Fohrman’s new presentation on Purim— bit.ly/1eWKVbk Please feel free to share this link with friends and family.

Columnist@TheJewishStar.com

We do repairs

Lenny Koegel 516-594-6010

* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for purchases made 2/1/14 – 3/31/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. * Manufacturer’s mail-inare rebate offer valid for purchases All trademarks used herein the property of Hunter Douglas.made 2/1/14 – 3/31/14 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. Offer excludes Nantucket™ Window Shadings, a collection of Silhouette® Window Shadings. Rebate will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card and mailed within 6 weeks of rebate claim receipt. Funds do not expire. Subject to applicable law, a $2.00 monthly fee will be assessed against card balance 7 months after card issuance and each month thereafter. Additional limitations apply. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. © 2014 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved.

All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

686645

vast majority of whom are Judeans [thus the title Jews] are under dire threat of being murdered by government fiat. Queen Esther, a descendent of Benjamin, is now in a position to reciprocate Judah’s heroic deed of antiquity. She could have easily walked away from this situation, given her royal position.

In “A Debt Repaid,” Rabbi Fohrman writes: “But Esther does not take this path. Instead, she chooses to risk her life — and to reciprocate a centuries-old act of selfless kindness.

“Judah had once promised Jacob that he would guarantee the safety of Benjamin, come what may.

But never had Judah suspected how harshly destiny would call upon him to back up every inch of that promise. How tempted must Judah have been simply to give up and go home when Benjamin was found with the silver goblet in his sack. Yes, he had pledged to safeguard Benjamin, but what was he supposed to do now? No one asked Benjamin to steal the cup! Judah could have easily rationalized that it was time to cut his losses; time to give up on Rachel’s child Benjamin and save his full-blooded brothers, the other children of Leah.

“But Judah didn’t do that. He made a direct appeal to the Egyptian [Joseph] to save Benjamin — and he put his own safety in

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

T

here is no end to the commentaries on the Book of Esther, and this year’s pick by me that follows is not the last word.

However, the popularity of Rabbi David Fohrman’s teachings in our community (he is rav of the nusach Sfard minyan at the Young Israel of Woodmere) prompts a review of a segment of his teachings for Megillat Esther, that, in my opinion, is worth your attention kosher and patronage. bookworm “The Queen You Thought You Knew” [OU Press, 2011] goes into great detail in describing the human, as well as the divine, dynamic that envelops the plot that underlines the theme of the holiday of Purim.

The mitzvah of hakarat hatov (showing gratitude to others), Alan Jay Gerber one of the most remarkable mitzvot that our faith mandates in terms of personal human relations, generates peace among us. This mitzvah, as it relates to the Purim theme, is given big play by Rabbi Fohrman.

This segment of Rabbi Fohrman’s book reminds us of the deeds of our ancestors— Judah, a son of Leah, and Benjamin, a son of Rachel.

In Genesis, it was Judah who stepped up to the plate, at great personal risk, to defend his half brother Benjamin from possible captivity in Egypt. Fast forward to the story of Purim. The Jewish people in Persia, the

5

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

6

The Jewish

sTar

Independent reporting from the Orthodox communities of Long Island and New York City All opinions expressed are solely those of The Jewish Star’s editorial staff or contributing writers Published weekly by The Jewish Star LLC, 2 Endo Boulevard, Garden City, NY 11530 Phone: 516-622-7461 n Fax: 516-569-4942 News releases: Newsroom@TheJewishStar.com Publisher Editor

Editorial Designers

Photo Editor

Ed Weintrob Malka Eisenberg Stacey Simmons Matthew Stammel Christina Daly

n

Calendar listings: Calendar@TheJewishStar.com

EWeintrob@theJewishStar.com 622-7461 ext.291 MEisenberg@theJewishStar.com 622-7461 ext.240

Kashrut: The Jewish Star is not responsible for the kashrut of any product or establishment featured in the Jewish Star.

This newspaper contains words of Torah; please dispose of properly.

Submissions: All submissions become the property of the Jewish Star, may be edited and may be used by the Publisher in print, on the web, or in any media without additional authorization or compensation. All submissions may be edited for publication. Copyright © 2014 The Jewish Star LLC. All rights reserved.

Thanks, Uncle Joe…

Continued from page 1 beria. This potential second Holocaust, in the shadow of the first one, was averted only by Stalin’s death at the height of the so-called “Doctor’s Plot,” in which mainly Jewish doctors were put on trial on fabricated charges of attempting to poison Soviet leaders.

Stalin’s successors stopped short of outright genocide against the Jews, but the antiSemitic discrimination came thick and fast.

In both the USSR and its satellite states like Poland, communists launched anti-Semitic purges under cover of “anti-Zionism.” There was a robust propaganda element to these actions, since the communists were keen to square their loathing of Jews with imperatives, as they saw them, of Marxist theory.

So, from the early 1960s onwards, the Soviet Communist Party began pumping out books and pamphlets dedicated to showing that Judaism and Zionism were doctrines that glorified Jewish racism towards non-Jews.

The ugliest example of this genre was published in 1963—note that date, because it’s four years before Israel took control of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and eastern Jerusalem following the Six-Day War—entitled “Judaism Without Embellishment.” The author was a man named Trofim Kichko. If the book brought anything to mind, it was the Nazi tabloid rag Der Sturmer, whose viciously anti-Semitic cartoons where echoed in Kichko’s book.

Around the caricatures of hook-nosed Jews counting their fortunes in synagogues, Kichko came up with such gems as, “Jehovah delivered all the wealth of the non-Jews to the use of the Jews” and “Speculation in matzah, pigs, thievery, deception, debauchery— these are the real characteristics of many synagogue leaders.”

Kichko combined this classic anti-Semi-

tism with anti-Zionism. He defined Zionists as the “ideological parasites” of “Jewish capitalists” and flayed the Zionist movement—in much the same manner as today’s intellectually fashionable anti-Zionists—as a particularly brutal form of colonialism. This last theme resurfaced in many of the Soviet publications that followed Kichko’s book.

In 1975, the Soviets began pushing another libelous tract by Valeri Skurlatov, entitled “Zionism and Apartheid.” In that work, Skurlatov screeched, “Racial biological doctrines, according to which people are divided into ‘chosen people’ and goyim, have been turned into official ideology and state policy in Israel and South Africa, where the ‘inferior’ are forcibly separated from the ‘superior.’ That is what apartheid is.”

Such propaganda went hand in hand with Soviet efforts to demonize Zionism as a form of racism, culminating in the notorious U.N. Resolution 3379—rescinded in 1991— equating Zionism with racism. And because foreign policy is often domestic policy, the campaign against “Zionism” was an integral component of the repression of the Jewish communities inside the Soviet Union.

It’s a sorry history that should be pointed out every time the slanders of Israeli Apartheid Week are aired. IAW likes to think of its activities as promoting human rights. In fact, its advocates are the ideological inheritors of a modern libel—that Zionism and apartheid are the same—that was deliberately manufactured to oppress Soviet Jews, at the behest of a state that murdered millions of people in its gulags. This is the company that Israeli Apartheid Week keeps, and it is time—as a Marxist might say—to toss the event onto the dust heap of history.

Ben Cohen is Shillman Analyst for JNS.org

My personal oath It was the summer of 2007 when I took my sons to Israel to see the Land, and spend precious time with family and friends. One outing was to an olive press in Shilo. People were busy working in all phases of this lively operation and a tour guide greeted us and proceeded to educate us.

We were instructed as to how these juicy green olives would create incredibly healthy, flavorful oil. At the end of our tour we tasted and purchased this precious commodity, walking away with new knowledge and beautifully labeled cans and bottles of oil.

For that first Shabbos I made a delicious dip with this oil combining different spices as the oil takes on the taste of the spices perfectly.

Coming back from our trip brought on a burning desire to do something different and so I

made My Personal Oath.

I decided to only buy olive oil from Israel, then wine, spices, teas, honey, preserves, vanilla. Rapidly My Personal Oath took on a life of its own. In the last seven years I’ve found many other items that are a Product of Israel.

The list is unlimited and so is the availability.

And each time I open the spice cabinet I see Hebrew letters jumping off the product labels and the fragrance is beyond divine.

My Personal Oath comes alive every time with each scent, taste, dip and recipe. My friends know I’ll always bring Israeli wine, an olive oil or tea selection for Shabbos or Chag. It’s gotten so easy, My Personal Oath.

So, do your share and buy Israeli products — make it Your Personal Oath!

Rhonda Olenick, Far Rockaway

Taking The J Street Challenge A

new hour-long d o c u m e n t a r y, “The J Street Challenge,” is a powerful, must-see film for anyone with even a casual interest in Israel.

It was produced and released by Americans for Peace and Tolerance, a multi-ethnic organization promoting tolerance in communities across the nation.

J Street, founded Jeff Dunetz in 2008 and marketing itself as a kind of left-wing AIPAC, went out of its way from the beginning to emphasize itself as being staunchly “pro-Israel, pro-peace.”

A key question raised by the documentary is what it means to be “pro-Israel.” Harvard Professor Ruth Wisse suggests that “there is no such thing as an Arab-Israel conflict, there is an Arab war against Israel, there is an Arab war against the Jewish people’s right to a state.”

As the film examines J Street’s record, it becomes hard to dispute Alan Dershowitz’s assertion that J Street is “neither pro-Israel nor pro-peace.”

“The J Street Challenge” uses the organization’s own words to examine what the group means by “pro-peace,” and the rhetorical sleight of hand it uses to promote its position that Israel is always wrong.

Shalem Center scholar Daniel Gordis points out that “the minute you’re absolutely certain that you have a monopoly on wisdom I think you stop listening.”

According to J Street, the only reason for the “Arab-Israeli” conflict is land. Throughout the first part of the film, the viewer is introduced to the organization’s position that if Israel would return to the 1949 armistice lines all would be right with the world. A position nicely slapped down by Professor Wisse who explains that “since that so-called occupation was the consequence of the war against Israel, it cannot retroactively have become its cause.”

Part of explaining a group’s purpose is discovering the people funding its message.

“The J Street Challenge” pulls together all of the funding information discovered over the past six years and lays it out. The money comes from such critics of Israel as hedgefund billionaire and progressive “sugar daddy” George Soros, and Genevieve Lynch, a board member of the pro-Iranian-regime National Iranian-American Council.

And although it says it is opposed to the anti-Semitic Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign against Israel, J Street maintains close ties with those who advocate collaboration with the BDS movement, like the writer Peter Beinart and the corporate lawyer Kathleen Peratis.

The movie touches upon the role the POLITICS TO GO

Obama administration had in giving J Street legitimacy, inviting it to presidential meetings with the leadership of the Jewish community, and forcing democrats such as DCCC Chairman Steve Israel to support the group’s initial conference.

J Street’s usual position includes slamming Benjamin Netanyahu’s government as an obstacle to peace (they made the same comments about the Olmert government), and its leaders’ call for the United States to impose a solution on Israel even if it ignores Israel’s security needs. J Street also opposes tougher sanctions on the Iranian regime (and has, since its creation in 2008), along with other positions one usually hears from a group that opposes Israel and rarely hears from a group that supports the Jewish State.

More than anything else, the documentary seeks to present an understanding of what is at the core of the J Street message and how it seduces some in the Jewish community, particularly college-aged liberal Jews. It identifies J Street’s appeal to a naïve view of the world, with one activist explaining that she supports J Street because she likes “creating good things in the world” — to which Professor Wisse responds, “They are so sensitive and … so good-hearted.”

“The stupidity of this kind of innocence in a world that is so complicated, when you belong to a people with such a tortured history of trying to arrive at the good in the midst of being persecuted and prosecuted falsely over so many centuries, I mean, its almost intolerable,” Wisse said.

Rather than simply “attack” what J Street says, the film is formatted as a “debate” on the issues. Each topic within the documentary is introduced by the words of a J Street leader, member, or document. Those positions are then rebutted by one or more from an all-star cast who outline and explain J Street’s deceit — a cast which includes, in addition to Wisse and Dershowitz, Daniel Gordis, Wall Street Journal editor Bret Stephens, Jerusalem Post columnist Caroline Glick, CAMERA’s Andrea Levin, Israel Project CEO Josh Block, and Dr. Charles Jacobs, who runs “Americans for Peace and Tolerance,” the organization that released the movie.

“The J Street Challenge” is a must see.

Screenings can be arraigned for your organization on the film’s website, thejstreetchallenge.com.

Columnist@TheJewishStar.com

The film shows how J Street seduces college-aged liberal Jews who have a naïve view of the world.

7

Camp Seneca Lake is going to CHINA

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

Our 3rd year!

Hong Kong

For teens graduating 10th Grade in June 3 Weeks in China, 5 Days in California, 2 Weeks at Camp

California

July 1st – August 13th Trip Director: Rabbi Sean Jensen

Forbidden City

Taiwan The trip was amazing and it wasn't only the activities we did in Asia every day, it was also due to the great staff and awesome kids that all contributed in their own way.

This trip truthfully surpassed all of my expectations. -Josh Weiss, Camper on Seneca China 2013

Panda Zoo

For more information: China: ross@senecalake.com Israel: info@senecalake.com

www.senecalake.com

SENECA ISRAEL A journey you will never forget 4 Weeks in Israel, 10 Days at Camp

July 6th – August 13th Trip Director: Rabbi Steven Moskowitz • Meet with incredible Israeli entrepreneurs who are greatly contributing to the world • Choose from 4 electives and participate in activities involving art, technology, culinary and sports • Stay in beautiful accommodations and enjoy Israel's finest cuisine

Our 2nd year!

686655

• Tour Israel's newest and most exciting sites • Participate in interactive sports activities at the Wingate Institute and meet with Israeli athletes such as Tal Brody • Travel to Eilat and enjoy exhilarating water sports

PBS tours Israel through eyes of Netanyahu gram) to build to conquer the all over Israel.” He is currently few remaining Jews who reworking on five other countries belled against Rome on the top for this series. of Masada. Netanyahu noted Each film requires about that the defenders atop Masada a year and a half involving committed suicide rather than research, planning, logistics, be tortured, murdered or entaking into account holidays, slaved by the Romans. politics, weather and schedulHe looked down at the reming. He filmed in Israel now, nants of the Roman camps nothe said since Israel is a “pivotal ing, “We’re back and we’re here country at a pivotal time and to stay.” In Jerusalem, Greenthe leader was willing and had berg and Netanyahu visited the the time and patience to do it.” cemetery on Har Hazeitim, the “The opportunity of dealKotel and the Kotel tunnels. ing with a leader up close and The PM pointed out the lonpersonal” enables viewers to gest, heaviest stone in Herod’s see him as a “human being, it outer retaining wall and the humanizes the country and the area in the tunnel closest to the leader” and makes the country Holy of Holies. “more accessible to the audiOne major error was not emence.” They are “exposed to a phasizing that the holiest site country as never seen before.” to the Jews is not the Western When they see this type of Wall but the Temple Mount Peter Greenberg accompanied by the Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu programming and they want to where Solomon’s Temple and at sunrise in Masada. learn more as a result, he said, photo by Tina Hager then the second Temple, later then, “I’ve done my job.” built by Herod stood. (This “We covered a lot of ground in Los Angeles. Greenberg noted that it was point was clarified for Mr. Greenberg in an screened now since Netanyahu is in the U.S. in 56 minutes,” said Greenberg. interview with The Jewish Star).

“It was a great mix from the Mediterranow; both Greenberg and Netanyahu will be This is the fifth “Royal Tour” Greenberg at the premier. nean Sea to the (Negev) desert. We had a has filmed. The others were Jordan, New Greenberg was born in Manhattan, went to lot of fun. He said that he hadn’t been on a Zealand, Jamaica, Peru and Mexico. “A di- public school and Bronx High School of Sci- bicycle for years because of security. So we verse mix,” he said in an interview with The ence. He is Jewish but said he had an “ecu- put the bikes on the road and jumped on and Jewish Star. were racing and the security guards ran after menical background.”

“The angle is the unprecedented access, He summers on Fire Island and is a vol- us. We were having a lot of fun with them to look at the country through the eyes of its unteer firefighter there. He said that he has actually.” leader.” He said that it was not viewed before been visiting Israel as a journalist since 1970 Channels, dates and times for “Israel: The airing by the prime minister or the govern- and has covered events throughout the Mid- Royal Tour” — Channel 13: March 6, 8 pm; ment and the first time it would be viewed dle East, notably, the Yom Kippur War, Camp March 9, 12:30 and 7 pm. Channel 21: March would be on Tuesday night at the premier David, Sadat’s assassination and has “been 6, 9:30 pm; March 9, 10 am.

Get the

Weekly!

Scan with your Smart Phone to Register & Subscribe*

* Scroll to the registration area to begin the registration process.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AnD SAvE!

EvERGREEn PRICInG now Only $30

Go Green, Save Green. Save money, time and valuable paper by choosing to be automatically charged $30.00 once a year on your credit card.

OnE TIME PRICInG

BEST DEAL!

$36.00 for one year. A renewal notice will be sent by mail when your term is up.

To subscribe call 516-569-4000 press 7 or www.liherald.com/subscribe

680611

By Malka Eisenberg PBS is providing a fair and even-handed view of Israel this week, as noted travel news journalist Peter Greenberg tours Israel with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on “Israel: The Royal Tour.”

The program debuts Thursday March 6 at 8 pm on Channel 13. It showcases sites handpicked by Netanyahu to convey his message and areas that have special meaning to him.

In the one hour film, Greenberg and Netanyahu traverse Israel from north to south and east to west by boat, helicopter, dune buggy and bicycle. They boat in the Red Sea and see the Dolphin Reef, walk and bike by Rosh Hanikra, raft down the Jordan River, and float in the Dead Sea. Netanyahu shows off some of the hi-tech inventions at the Technion, displaying the modern side of Israel there and in Tel Aviv, but he also manages to convey lessons of Jewish history in Jerusalem and Masada. He also points out some Christian sites.

Netanyahu discusses the threat of terrorism to Israel and the world, stressing that “terrorism is international” and that “we want peace,” noting that will only happen if the Middle East “becomes democratic, liberal and free.” He emphasized that Israel must be strong militarily and economically because only the “strong can make peace” and that Israel will not compromise on its security and that peace is not possible without security.

“We’ve been here for 4000 years,” he said.

In Israel you can see “the most amazing history and the most amazing future.”

On Masada, Netanyahu pointed out the Roman camps still visible from the mountaintop and the ramp the Romans forced Jewish slaves (not mentioned in the pro-

682529

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

8

It was a starry starry night … on to Purim!

Years ago we would oohh and aahh over the glamorous gowns, perfect hairstyles and magnificent jewels, albeit on loan. Lately we have all become Joan Rivers. The gown was ok but the color was a bit drab or a too bold, neckline too plunging, accessories too overpowering, hair styles too natural or overdone.

Did they have work done on their face, their body? Who were we kidding? — every one of us would be thrilled to look like the stars we were critiquing. They looked stunning.

Couture designers beg to design their gowns gratis and they have their hair and make up done by the best in the profession. They are dressed and adorned with jewels fit for royalty.

Only thing they have to do is starve themselves before the big day, to fit into the gown, that we would give anything to have (and fit into).

Imagine if we were being critiqued? Imagine that, as we exit our cars on arrival at a wedding or bar mitzvah, we are

over a traffic cone while walking the red carpet, reminiscent of her tripping while walking up to receive her academy award last year. She’s a great actress and she knows how to win over an audience by being real. Those are the things that will be all over the media. That and the selfie pictures taken by host Ellen with her and the stars in the audience.

Singer Pharrell Williams walked the red carpet in shorts and his “Curious George” hat, while showing off his tattooed calves. Times they are a changing, my friends.

Though chances are you were not at the Oscars, or The Governor’s Ball that followed, but you can enjoy one of Wolfgang Puck’s dishes. Below find his recipe for a wonderful prime rib roast you can serve for your Purim seudah.

Roast Prime Rib of Beef with Garlic-Herb Crust

Judy Joszef

swarmed by reporters and photographers. “And who are you wearing tonight?” “I’m wearing a vintage Loehmann’s back room evening dress.”

There is definitely a skill to walking that red carpet, although they make it look so easy. It’s not enough to look beautiful and poised; to win over the public, you have to upstage your outfit. Jennifer Lawrence did just that, tripping

Are you looking to grow your business?

1 bone-in prime rib of beef (4 to 5 pounds) 8 garlic cloves, minced 4 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary 2 teaspoons dried thyme 4 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons kosher salt Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place rack in center of oven.

If roast won’t fit in oven with rack in center, place rack in lower position. Place roast, rib side down, on rack inside large, heavy roasting pan. Let rest at room temperature while oven preheats.

In small bowl, stir together garlic, rosemary, thyme, pepper and salt. Spread mixture evenly over surface of meat, press down firmly. Cook roast for 25 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 250 degrees. Continue roasting for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until instant-read thermometer, inserted into center of roast without touching bone, reads 120 degrees for rare or 125 degrees for medium rare. Remove roast from oven.

Transfer to platter. Cover roast with aluminum foil. Let rest in warm spot for 30 minutes.

Uncover roast. Transfer to carving board. Pour juices that have accumulated on platter into sauceboat. Using a sharp carving knife, cut meat across grain.

Judy.soiree@gmail.com

CHARLES J. KLEINER ESQ. Your legal concern is my legal concern.

This is where your ad should be!

Charles J. Kleiner, Esq.

A warm and caring legal practice focusing on: N.J. Municipal Court/N.Y. Traffic Court and DMV Hearings Residential and Commercial Real Estate

Charles J. Kleiner, Esq. One University Plaza, Suite 412 Hackensack, NJ 07601 Tel. No. (201) 441-9616 Fax No. (201) 441-9617

Call Ed Weintrob today and be a part of something big!

Wills, Trusts and Estates Commercial Law Litigation Business Formations and Transactions Property Tax Appeals

450 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1308 New York, NY 10123 Tel. (347) 739-9739 Fax No. (212) 629-5825

Admitted in New York and New Jersey

718-908-5555 • EWeintrob@TheJewishStar.com

686656

686649

Charles@Kleinerlaw.com

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

A

nd so, it was Oscar time again. I really shouldn’t have watched it live, as I had not yet finished my column that was due the next morning. I told myself I would just watch the opening monologuel as I love Ellen DeGeneres. All of a sudden, it hit me, I could write about the Who’s in the Oscars, and tie it in with a recipe. kitchen So, in reality I wasn’t really wasting three and a half hours, I was doing research for my column!

As I watched the actors and actresses on the red carpet … yes, I started watching with the red carpet special at 7:30, so I actually allotted myself four and a half hours of research. Pretty devoted of me, huh?

OK, back to the preshow, or shall I call it the critiquing of the star’s choices.

9

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

10

HEALTH, MIND & BODY A SPECIAL SECTION IN

Every Month In 2014

Next Big Health Package Coming on March 28 Call NOw to Reserve space and editorial support

With editorial support and special reduced advertising rates.

• Chiropractors • Dentists • Dermatolgists • Eye Care • Fitness Centers • Gyms

• Hospitals • Martial Arts • Pediatricians • Pharmacies • Physicians • Podiatrists

• Rehabilitation • Senior Care • Therapists • Urgent Care • Yoga and much more

Call Publisher Ed Weintrob • (516) 622-7461 ext 291

• Send events to Calendar@TheJewishStar.com •Events MUST include a contact number or email • Deadline Thursday 5 pm, 8 days before cover date.

THURSDAY MARCH 6 LUNCH & LEARN with Rabbi Shalom Axelrod of YI Woodmere. Traditions Restaurant, 302 Central Ave., Lawrence. 12:30-1:30 pm. $12 lunch. Alan Stern 516-398-3094.

SANDY RECOVERY FAIR. NY Rising event brings residents and businesses together with agencies working to further recovery from the storm. 4 to 8 pm. Meet with NY Rising-approved contractors and architechts.

Law-rence HS, 2 Reilly Rd, Cedarhurst. For info contact Michael Raab, 516-572-1395.

SATURDAY MARCH 8 HALB’s 59th DINNER. Hebrew Academy of Long Beach concludes its 59th dinner campaign on March 8, with a motzi Shabbat gala on HALB’s Woodmere campus. Freda and Scott Englander of Woodmere (left), with three children in the elementary school (and a fourth, 20 months old, a future enrollee), will receive the Rabbi Dr. Armin H. Friedman Young Leadership Award, named in honor of HALB’s dean emeritus and founding principal.

Esther and Baruch Weinstein of Cedarhurst (right), with four HALB graduates and a fifth slated to graduate DRS in 2017, will be the Guests of Honor. For information and reservations, call 516-791-8200 ext 107.tt, 1 Piermont Ave. 516-295-2282.

ISRAEL TALK. Tuvia Book series features a tribute to Ilan and Assaf Ramon followed by Israel-style refreshments. Book is an acclaimed Jewish education specialist and author who has lectured around the world. Free. 8:30 pm. Young Israel of Hewlett, 1 Piermont Ave. 516-295-2282.

SUNDAY MARCH 9 BLOOD DRIVE. New York Blood Center is urgently asking donors to roll up their sleeves to replenish our community blood and platelet supply. 8:30 am - 2:30 pm. Congregation Eitz Chaim, 661 Dogwood Avenue, West Hempstead. Pamglassman@aol.com or call 516.238.1849.

MEGILLAH OUTTAKES. Zayin Adar Breakfast. Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz tells “the rest of the story.” 9 am. Free. Bais Haknesses of North Woodmere and DRS Faculty. 649 Hungry Harbor Road, (516) 295-1491.

NIGHT OF 100 WINES, 36 SCOTCHES. Featuring wines by Royal Wine, Happy Hearts, C&R International, River and Allied Importers; Scotches by Tomintoul & Glengoyne, Balvenie & Glenfiddich, Glenrothes & Glenlivet, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Oban, Lagavulin, Cardhu, and Johnny Walker. 7:30 to 10:30 pm. $18 single, $25 couple (includes $10 off purchase of $20 or more). 21+. Young Israel of Long Beach, 120 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, NY 11561 (516) 431-2404.

‘THE GREAT DICTATOR’. Screening and discussion of the Charlie Chaplin 1940 film that mocked Hitler. It was Chaplin’s first talk-

‘Bar Mitzvah’ for NSHA megilah reading North Shore Hebrew Academy Middle School will reach a milestone when 16 Ashkenazic and Sephardic students read Megillat Esther for their schoolmates and faculty on Purim day, Sunday, March 16. Dr. Paul Brody of Great Neck (wearing tallit) has instructed close to 200 students over the past 13 years at NSHA, enabling them to read the Megillah at synagogues, hospitals, nursing homes and private homes for those unable to attend synagogues for the megillah reading. NSHA’s head of school, ing picture and the highest-grossing of his career, but created much difficulty for him and eventually led to his long exile from the United States, albeit indirectly. The film will be shown in its entirety and the discussion afterwards be facilitated by Dylan Skolnick, co-director Cinema Arts Centre in. Light refreshments. 12:30 pm. $10, $5 students and seniors. Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center, 100 Crescent Beach Rd., Glen Cove, 516-571-8040. 516-571-8040 x100.

ALIYAH FAIR. 12 to 5:15 pm, Nefesh B’Nefesh. Crowne Plaza Times Square, 1605 Broadway, Manhattan. 866-4-ALIYAH.

TUESDAY MARCH 11 FIDF GALA. Friends of the Israel Defense Forces event features more than 30 soldiers and officers from various IDF units, soldiers from the U.S. Armed Forces; performances by the IDF Orchestra; and in-person as well as live-satellite talks by distinguished figures in Israel and Washington. 5:30 pm reception; 7 pm dinner and program. Grand Ballroom of

Achiezer wants good readers Achiezer’s Krias Megilah Program is back for another year!

Last year, volunteers in the Five Towns and Far Rockaway performed more than 45 lainings and enhanced the Purim celebration for many in our community.

If you are a baal koreh and can lain the Megilah on Purim for our elderly, disabled or home-bound neighbors who are unable

to attend shul, please sign up today. Additionally, if you or anyone you know requires this service, please contact Achiezer.

In both cases, call (516) 791-4444 or email purim@achiezer.org and Achiezer will make the necessary arrangements for you. Purim falls on 14 Adar, which this year corresponds with motzei Shabbat, March 15, and Sunday, March 16.

Rabbi Jeffrey Kobrin (behind Dr. Brody), and the Middle School’s principal, Rabbi Adam Acobas (rear right) facilitate the students’ hectic schedules to enable adequate review time with Brody. The students join a small, qualified group who possess the knowledge to publicly chant the megillah. Brody, who has read the Megillah for over 40 years, chanted it at the Great Synagogue in Leningrad in 1985, despite great peril, as the gabboyim (sextons) were actually members of the KGB!

Waldorf-Astoria, Park Avenue at 50th Street, Manhattan. 646-274-9655 or 212-558-9400.

SPA FOR BODY AND SOUL. Each of us have an inner connection with G-d: Can we find it? Arbonne international consultant Mrs. Mushky Sandhaus will treat participates to “an ultimate facial” and share some tips for a naturally wholesome makeup experience.

7:30 pm. $18. Chabad of Roslyn, 75 Powerhouse Rd, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 RSVP to Chabad at 516-484-3500 or Chaya at 845-642-7401. Arbonne products available for sale but no obligation to buy.

WEDNESDAY MARCH12 ISRAELI DANCE. Learn with Danny Uziel and be comfortable dancing with the very best. Intermediate to advanced levels. Every Wednesday, 10 am to noon. $10. JCC of Greater Five Towns, 207 Grove Ave., Cedarhurst. 516-569-6733 x222.

THURSDAY MARCH 13 LUNCH & LEARN with Rabbi Shalom Axelrod of YI Woodmere.Traditions Restaurant, 302 Central Ave., Lawrence. 12:30-1:30 pm. $12 lunch. Alan Stern 516-398-3094.

SAT NITE AND SUNDAY MARCH 15-16: PURIM WEDNESDAY MARCH 19 ISRAELI DANCE. Learn with Danny Uziel and be comfortable dancing with the very best. Intermediate to advanced levels. Every Wednesday, 10 am to noon. $10. JCC of Greater Five Towns, 207 Grove Ave., Cedarhurst. 516-569-6733 x222.

LINKEDIN 1. You’ve heard the buzz about LinkedIn — this workshop will cover the basics of how to use it. We will offer a step-bystep guide to creating a profile, uploading contacts and beginning to network online. 11 am to 1 pm. Sid Jacobson JCC, 300 Forest Dr., East Hills. 516-484-1545 x21.

TUESDAY MARCH 25 62ND ANNUAL BETH SHOLOM GALA honors Jenny and Mordy Lent and Rabbi Kenneth Hain on his 25th anniverary year as Beth Shalom’s rabbi. 5 pm. For info and rese vation call 516-569-3600 x21.

WOMEN AND JEWISH HOLIDAYS with Michal Horowitz. Gain special insights through fascinating facts and beautiful stories. Today’s session, covering Passover, is second of a series. $15 ($15,per class). 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. JCC of the Greater Five Towns, 207 Grove Ave., Cedarhurst. 516-5696733 x222.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 26 WHITE SHUL DINNER. 92nd anniversary event honors David and Tzivy Kopelowitz, guests of honor; community service award to Rabbi Boruch Ber Bender; lifetime achievement award to Sidney Lipstein. 6:30 pm reception, 7:15 pm dinner. $360 per couple.

RSVP to 718-327-0500 x3. 728 Empire Ave., Far Rockaway.

ONGOING ART EXHIBITS SHOAH ART. “Art as Conscience: Holocaust Art of Aaron Morgan,” through March 16 at Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County, 100 Crescent Beach Rd., Glen Cove, 516-571-8040. 516-571-8040 x105..

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

Jewish Star Calendar

11

Kitov quits Far Rock…

Continued from page 1 lamented. “It’s very sad,” he told Kaminsky, but “I’m happy for you [on your retirement].

You served us well.”

Dr. Tuvia Shulman, a dentist with a practice in Lawrence, told The Jewish Star that he recalled some of the kosher shops that have closed since Kitov’s arrival — a butcher, a pizza store, a kosher takeout, Sari’s bakery, Superbowl (a kosher dairy restaurant) and a health food store.

Kitov focused on books, as is still evident on the shelves filling the store from floor to ceiling, and on book tables spread across the main floor and in the basement below.

Kaminsky was born in Chicago, learned in Telshe and Lakewood and, not wanting to specify how long ago, married his wife Chani from Baltimore, a bookkeeper at Yeshiva Darchei Torah, and “thank G-d” have children and grandchildren.

He had been an administrator at Mesivta of Long Beach, saw the lack of a serious bookstore in the area, and took over what was then Minzer’s gift shop. “It became a seforim store,” he said. “Nobody has the seforim we have. People come from all over.”

He also processes book orders for local and out of town schools, and although he will be closing the store, he will be keeping many of his wholesale accounts.

“Retail is not what it used to be,” he said.

He is closing the store because he said he didn’t want to have to “train in” someone he would sell to and noted, “my personality is the business.”

As far as book ordering, “we get stuff when they need it.” He recalled a school that had ordered from somewhere else but didn’t get their order and called Kitov and was able

Singing in harmony, competing for a cause

to receive it in 48 hours. “It was a $6,000 order,” he said proudly.

Kitov also sold seasonal items, distributing Leiter Sukkot on Sukkot and selling Etrogim and Lulavim through Rabbi Cohen from Yeshiva of Far Rockaway. He noted that they will be continuing that part of the business.

Sukkot was a special time at Kitov.

“I remember before the hadassim (myrtle branches) were in packages,” reminisced Friedman, “looking for meshulashim (three leaves together).”

Shulman recalled his search for the perfect, three-leafed hadassim at Kitov.

“My father [Nahum Shulman] was a rabbi in the community, at Congregation Bais Tefilah. He used to get etrogim not only for his baal batim but for other important people in the community. In the days before hadasism came prepacked, my father used to spend days going through boxes of hadassim to find meshulashim. Kaminsky had no problem (with that). He was supportive; he didn’t mind people sitting for days searching.”

What did Kaminsky enjoy about the job?

“I was always dealing with rebbes, yeshivos, bachurim. I’ll miss the people,” he said.

“The Ribono Shel Olam gives parnoso (income) whatever business you do. I’ve been learning in the mornings, now I can do more learning, something I always wanted to do.”

“It’s the end of an era,” said Shulman. “He cared about his clientele, they were not just customers but neighbors and friends. Today you don’t get that kind of personal caring.”

“He’s more than a friend,” said Hashi Gluck of Five Towns Judaica in Lawrence.

“We speak about ten times a day. He’s a great guy. We are really close; he’s a larger than life personality. He’ll be sorely missed.”

By Malka Eisenberg There will be a competitive edge to the harmony next Wednesday, March 14, but it’s for a good cause.

The fourth annual boys a cappella competition benefitting the Koby Mandell Foundation, V’ata Banim Shiru (VBS) 2014, will be held at the Torah Academy of Bergen County at 7:30 pm.

Rambam Mesivta of Lawrence will face off against the Rav Teitz Mesivta Academy of Elizabeth (Jewish Educational Center) and the MTA (Manhattan Talmudical Academy) at TABC in Teaneck.

“We reached out to all schools, but these are the only schools that currently have a cappella groups and are available that night,” said organizer Gaby Novick, The judges were culled from well known a cappella groups: Elchanan Majeski from AKA Pella, Ari Lewis and Ely Shestack from the Maccabeats, Mike Boxer and Craig Resmovits from Six13, and Shloime Kaufman.

The Rambam choir, now called the Harmonidies, was founded by then-Rambam students Yossi Szpigiel and Jacob Bernstein because “we simply enjoyed music and singing,” according to Bernstein. “Neither of us had any formal musical background — we basically just created it for fun.” They both graduated from Rambam in 2010 and attended Yeshivat Har Etzion in Israel.

After many conversations with fellow

student Gaby Novick regarding running a chesed project, they selected the Koby Mandell Foundation as the place to donate funds raised from a choir competition.

Gaby Novick, co-founder and president of VBS had been organizing the VBS programs since 2010 and has been very involved in this year’s event.

Roy Angstreich, executive director of the Koby Mandell Foundation said that Novick participated in their “Camp Koby Experience in Israel” a few years ago. The five and a half week summer program brings about 50 high school teens from North America to serve as counselors at their camp for Israeli victims of terror. Last summer twelve Five Towns students participated in Camp Koby. “We are so grateful to Gaby Novick and all the volunteers and performers. As a result of their efforts, much needed funds are raised to send additional bereaved children who are victims of terror to our summer camp: Machane Koby VYosef,” added Angstreich.

Rabbi Seth and Sherri Mandell established the Koby Mandell Foundation in 2001 after their 13-year-old son Koby and his friend Yosef Ishran were brutally murdered by terrorists near their home in Israel. The camp and foundation seek to help the more than 50,000 people affected by terrorism.

To get tickets, go to: vatabanimshiru@ gmail.com

Saturday March 8 - JOIN THE FUN

“HOOPS FOR COMMUNITY”

Sponsored by

Maidenbaum Tax Reduction Group Thank you to our other sponsers including: The Mayer Family, Panera Bread, Applebee’s, Traditions, AHC Appliance, Law Offices of Howard Adelsberg, The Kellner Family, Gutterman’s, Joey Hoenig, The Kaminer Family and the Fivetowns.com Nassau

HERALD

Halftime Show brought to you courtesy of Gourmet Glatt

Produced by Five Towns Community Chest Hosted by HAFTR

Showtime 7:30pm - HAFTR Sports Complex 44 Frost Lane • Lawrence The entire family will enjoy the antics of the Court Jesters Comedy Basketball Team as they take on our team of local faculty members, community leaders and our neighbors.

Tickets: Early Bird $8; At The Door $10; Family Pak $36

686148

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

12

Please bring a non-perishable food item for collection at the door. Proceeds will benefit Tomchei Shabbos, The JCC Kosher Food Pantry, Rock and Wrap It Up and more.

Refreshments • Half Time Show • Raffle Prizes

Please contact pbohnet@fivetownscommunitychest.org/374-5800 for reservations or additional information.

Neil Young was attracted by promoter Shuki Weiss to perform in Israel this summer.

Larry Philpot via Wikimedia Commons

would be the biggest name to perform in Israel this year. BDS groups have already taken to social media, calling on the Stones to boycott the Jewish state.

Last year popular R&B singer Alicia Keys ignored the campaigns targeting her Israel performance and gave a concert in Tel Aviv that Arnon says was simply “incredible.”

Arnon says Weiss’s company was behind the 2006 Israel

Dr. Richard R. Sternberg

CAHAL

THE COMMUNITY-WIDE SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Licensed, Board-Certified Clinical Psychologist Certified Psychoanalyst Certified Marital Therapist Diplomate of the American Board Of Professional Psychology Fellow, American Academy of Clinical Psychology Accredited By The National Register of Health Service Psychologists

is offering beautifully designed and colored

PURIM

(In choosing a psychotherapist, please be aware of the differences in credentials.

They represent important disparities in terms of training, expertise and experience.)

SHALOCH MANOS CARDS

Individual, Couples and Family Therapy

Pack of 10 cards: only $18 3 Packs (30 cards): only $50

Specializing in the treatment of Anxiety & Depressive Disorders Severe Mental Illness Marital & Relationship Problems Divorce & Family Problems Academic/Vocational Difficulties Problems of the Elderly & their families

Send PURIM greetings to family and friends while supporting this vital program for over 100 children with learning disabilities in our local yeshivas from the 5-Towns, Far Rockaway, Queens and greater Nassau County

Pick-up your cards today at

1175 West Broadway, Suite 21 Hewlett (516) 569-3869

CAHAL

540-A Willow Avenue, Cedarhurst entrance in municipal parking lot

Academic Appointments: Clinical Supervisor, NYU-Bellevue Medical Center Adjunct professor of psychology, Adelphi University Adjunct professor of psychology / clinical supervisor, C.W. Post/ Long Island University Faculty member & supervisor, Suffolk Institute for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy

Or to place an order call 516-295-3666 fax 516-295-2899 e-mail sheldon@cahal.org 686650

I practice entirely outside the insurance-government system.

Your absolute privacy and confidentiality will be assured.

concert by Roger Waters, a massive show was moved from its original venue to the Neve Shalom “Oasis of Peace” village, where Arabs and Jews live together. The vision was to play at a location symbolizing hope and peace between the two peoples. It was only after the show was announced that Waters was introduced to the BDS movement, according to Arnon. But Waters chose to play in Israel anyway, and after performing there decided to become one of the BDS movement’s biggest supporters.

“Whether you or I agree [with Waters’s decision to support BDS] doesn’t matter,” Arnon says. “I don’t think I am trying to put words in anyone’s mouth. I don’t think it’s legitimate to prevent people from educating themselves, and it’s also not legitimate to shove one specific set of beliefs down an audience’s throat. Everyone is entitled to obtain his or her own opinion, how they see fit.”

While Waters came away with one particular conclusion, many other artists who come to Israel see the country in a positive light, says Arnon. He cites various co-existence projects musicians are exposed to when they visit Israel, including work done by an organization called “Heartbeat,” which brings Jerusalem-area Jewish and Arab youths together to play music in order to “let go of the fear they might have of each other.”

“We’ve taken artists to see [Heartbeat’s work] together and given artists the opportunity to come and express their thoughts,” Arnon says. “Israel is a democracy and artists can go on stage and say what they want to say. That’s what the arts have been about the last few centuries.”

Arnon feels it would be best for both the Jewish and Arab public in Israel if artists would choose discussion over boycotts. While he says singers are entitled to boycott, he has a problem with those who say, “Don’t go there and play for your fans, and don’t engage with them.”

“Bottom line, come here and tour and see the facts,” Arnon says, conveying his message to potential artists considering performances in Israel. “Our success is having an artist tour, understand the difficulties, and understand that bad things happen here similar to anywhere else in the world. We encourage them to come instead of not showing up.”

686644

By Josh Hasten, JNS.org While Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters has in recent years acted as a de facto frontman for the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, urging fellow artists not to perform in Israel, Shuki Weiss Promotion and Production Ltd. for nearly 35 years has brought the biggest names in entertainment to the Jewish state for historic live shows.

Musical guests attracted to Israel by the company have included Metallica, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead, Madonna, David Bowie, and Eric Clapton. The trend continues this summer, with Neil Young, Soundgarden, and the Pixies all signed by Weiss to perform in Tel Aviv, and The Rolling Stones tentatively booked by Weiss but still unconfirmed.

“I’m not getting the message from the artists that they are feeling the pressure [from the BDS movement]. While that might have been true in the past, that’s not the case today,” Oren Arnon, the head promoter for Weiss’s company, tells JNS.org.

Weiss has also signed the international circus troupe Cirque du Soleil, which is bringing its “Quidam” performance to Tel Aviv this summer.

Promoting and producing live performances in Israel, in the dangerous and unstable neighborhood that is the Middle East, comes with significant financial risk, says Arnon. When the security situation becomes heated and artists decide to cancel their shows, “we lose millions [of dollars],” he says.

That was the case during the Second Lebanon War in 2006, when the popular British electronic music band Depeche Mode canceled their Israel show over concerns for their safety. (The band made up for it by performing in Israel some time later.)

Over the past several years, a number of artists have canceled their planned Israel shows not due to security fears, but as a result of the pressure levied by members of the BDS movement. Yet Arnon says of what he calls the “many” artists who haven’t backed out, “We’ve had many positive experiences with conscientious and intelligent artists who choose to come and see for themselves rather than cave to the propaganda.”

If Weiss can confirm The Rolling Stones’ appearance, it

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

Defying BDS, promoter brings big names to Israel

13

Advertising Sales

Classifieds

The Jewish Star has immediate openings for full-time and part-time staff to sell advertising and marketing opportunities to businesses and institutions in the Five Towns, Kew Gardens Hills, and Flatbush.

These salaried positions offer paid time off, medical and 401(k), plus great commission and bonus opportunities and flexible schedules.

To Advertise in this Section, Call 516-622-7461 REAL ESTATE

SELLING YOUR HOUSE?

An ideal candidate will have an entreprenurial mindset and good interpersonal skills; previous sales experience is not essential.

Run Your Ad in

The Jewish Star Just Call Our Classified Department at 516-622-7461

We do more than sell advertising space in print and on the Web, we produce marketing campaigns that boost neighborhood businesses and support its institutions.

The Jewish Star is a product you can be proud of, published

by Richner Communications, a well-established, family-friendly company that offers competitive compensation and benefits.

EMPLOYMENT

Home Improvement

HIRING?

HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED OR SETTLED? Contact Woodford Brothers Inc, for straightening, leveling, foundation and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLDBARN. www.woodfordbros.com. Suffolk Cty Lic. #41959-H, Nassau Cty Lic. #H18G7160000

Run Your Ad in

The Jewish Star Just Call Our Classified Department at 516-622-7461

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Credit Financial

Vacation Rentals/Prop.

Help Wanted

OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800-638-2102.

Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com

AIRLINE CAREERS BEGIN here– Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance Technician training. Financial aid for qualified students– Housing available. Job placement assistance. Call AIM 866-296-7093

Mortgages & Loans

Mortgages & Loans

CANADA DRUG CENTER is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800-418-8975, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

AUTOMOBILE & MARINE

If You’re Ready to Buy a Home, We Are Ready to Help.

Autos Wanted CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing!

Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647

The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers: Up to $15,000 of Down Payment Assistance

The Jewish Star, the preeminent newspaper of Torah Jewry on Long Island, has immediate openings for full-time staff and part-time freelance reporters in its News Department.

DONATE YOUR CAR to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 631-317-2014 Today!

1-800-382-HOME(4663)

www.sonyma.org

To cover local news that’s important to Long Island’s Jewish communities, The Jewish Star is seeking fast-paced print-centric reporters and writers and also individuals with Web and video experience.

SELL YOUR CAR Just Call Our Classified Department at 516-622-7461

for Housing

683588

One phone call, one order, one heck of a good price to run your ad in any state, or across the country.

Call the USA Classified Network today!

Candidates for the full-time staff position should demonstrate an ability to report and write both quickly and accurately. Staff compensation includes salary, medical, 401(k), vacation, and some schedule flexibility.

1-800-231-6152

Business/Opportunities MAKE UP TO $2,000+ Per Week! New Credit Card Ready Drink-Snack Vending Machines. Minimum $4K to $40K+ Investment Required. Locations Available. BBB Accredited Business. (800) 962-9189

Weigh the Advantages of Legal Advertising in

THE HE T

JEWISH STAR

For information on rates and coverage, contact our Legals Dept. at 516-569-4000.

The Jewish Star is a product you can be proud of, published by Richner Communications, a well-established, familyfriendly company that offers competitive compensation and benefits.

MERCHANDISE MART

SERVICES

Please send a brief letter, resume, and writing samples or links to Jewish Star Publisher Ed Weintrob.

Wanted CASH FOR COINS! Buying ALL Gold & Silver. Also Stamps & Paper Money, Entire Collections, Estates. Travel to your home.

Call Marc in New York 1-800-959-3419

Find it in the HERALD Classifieds.

DONATE YOUR CAR

PLACE YOUR AD Just Call Our Classified Department at 516-622-7461

NEED A CAR? Wheels For Wishes benefiting

x % Ta 100 tible uc Ded *Free Vehicle/Boat Pickup ANYWHERE *We Accept All Vehicles Running or Not *100% Tax Deductible

WheelsForWishes.org

660730

News Reporter

EWeintrob@TheJewishStar.com

Education

Health & Fitness

680217

EWeintrob@TheJewishStar.com

GUARANTEED INCOME FOR Your Retirement Avoid market risk & get guaranteed income in retirement! CALL for FREE copy of our SAFE MONEY GUIDE Plus Annuity Quotes from A-Rated companies!

800-669-5471

AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualifiedHousing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (877)818-0783

Please send a brief cover letter and resume to Jewish Star Publisher Ed Weintrob.

680216

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

14

Suffolk County

Call: (631) 317-2014

Metro New York

Call: (631) 317-2014

For FREE publication in The Jewish Star, email SCHOOLS @TheJewishStar.com. Copy may be edited for style and space and will appear at the discretion of the editor. Deadline: Monday noon.

HANC is Purim-ready Students at HANC’s Samuel & Elizabeth Bass Golding Early Childhood Center and Elementary School, in West Hempstead, are getting ready for Purim. Nursery students at the ECC learned all about Purim and dressed up as Purim characters and acted out the Purim story. Students were excited to learn about reading the megillah, giving mishloach manot, making hamentaschen and dressing up in costume.

Nursery Aleph students also had a special Purim treat when they made their very own yummy chocolate chip and sprinkle hamentaschen!

At HANC 609, elementary school students welcomed Rosh Chodesh Adar II with a rockin’ Purim chagiga filled with singing and dancing.

First graders in Morah Katz’s class welcomed Chodesh Adar by putting on a Purim puppet show using puppets they made themselves.

The students acted out the Purim story and sang songs about the mitzvot of Purim, including reading the megillah and delivering mishloach manot. The first graders also baked hamentaschen and decorated their own megillot.

Now, HANC’s first graders are ready for Purim!

Family Day at Gan Chamesh of Chabad of the Five Towns

HANC’s k’garten visits the LICM

Binyamin Ze’ev Markovich, age 4, of Cedarhurst, was joined by his Savta Chana Aharoni, visiting from Bat Yam, Israel, to celebrate Family Day in Gan Chamesh at the Chabad of the Five Towns preschool.

For “Show & Tell,” Binyamin brought in locks of his hair in a bag, since his first locks were recently shorn by Rabbi Chaim Kanievsky, Israeli rabbi and posek (halachik decisor) who was also thes sandak at his Brit Milah.

Binyamin is holding a photo showing his first haircut, at age 3, in Israel, by his Saba Yosef, who passed away a few months later, as his proud Savta looks on.

Festivities on Family Day were led by teachers Morot Etel Hurwitz, Ruthi and Brina, assisted by Binyamin’s Imma, Yudit, who serves as the Chabad’s dynamic music teacher.

Kindergarten students at HANC’s Samuel & Elizabeth Bass Golding Elementary School, in West Hempstead, had a wonderful trip to the Long Island Children’s Museum.

The students explored a room full of circular objects and built a semi circle bridge they could stand on; they had a soapy, bubbly blast in the Bubble Room, where the students were able to go inside a giant bubble. They also had a great time building towers with special keva planks; some of the towers were even taller than they were! One of the students’ favorite activities of the day was seeing and petting different types of animals, including Franklin the turtle.

It was a great day for the students at HANC 609!

HAFTR admins learn at iJED confab HAFTR Administrators participated in the 2014 iJED (Innovation in Jewish Education) Conference at the Marriott in Uniondale to learn more about the best and latest practices in teaching and learning.

The conference utilized diverse and innovative instructional strategies and methodologies focusing on 21st century learn-

ing, financial sustainability and supporting diverse learners. The sessions provided opportunities for our leaders to engage in learning labs, boot camps, hands on learning, project based and problem based learning, online learning, blended learning, case studies, remote learning, Backchanneling, iPlayground, blogging, networking, collaborating,

and other exciting and 21st century outlets.

Pictured (left to right): Jason Bokor, chairman of the Board of Education; Rabbi Gedaliah Oppen, HAFTR High School Judaic Studies principal; Reuben Maron, executive director; Naomi Lippman, High School General Studies principal, and Joy Hammer, Lower School principal.

THE JEWISH STAR March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774

Jewish Star Schools

15

686648

March 7, 2014 • 5 ADAR II 5774 THE JEWISH STAR

16