June 8, 2017
Distributed weekly in the Five Towns, Long Island, Queens & Brooklyn
Your Favorite Five Towns Family Newspaper
The Six Day War or The Six Day Miracle?
Pages 9, 10, 11, 13 & 37
Around the
Community
46 Hundreds of Local Students March in Celebrate Israel Parade
A 50 Year Old Chanukah Story in the Days of Shavuos pg89
! n u R e m o H
36
R’ Yitzie Ross of the Five Towns Little League Talks Teams, the Secret to Winning, and Good Sportsmanship
Queens Residents Enjoy Huge Community-Wide Carnival
pg
75 Years since the Battle of Midway
61 RNSP Etches Hundreds of Bikes and Devices – See page 3
SEASONS LAWRENCE
330 Central Avenue, Lawrence, NY 11559
Page 33
102 pg
116
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Dear Readers,
E
for a tour in his truck. The prime minister – who spoke Hebrew and Yiddish – sat in the front next to the president. His interpreter sat in the back. During the tour, LBJ showed Eshkol his cattle and other animals with pride – breeding them was part of his business. Towards the end of the ride, Eshkol turned to his interpreter inquiringly, “Vos zukt d’sheigitz?! [What is this gentile saying?!]” It was this type of person that the Arabs were fighting – a group of European Jews that was not savvy in the ways of the world or in business. But when it came to fight for their country, they poured their hearts and souls into the battle. “Soul” here is the key word. Without a connection to the One Above, we would have been lost. Indeed, after the war was won even the most irreligious Jews were cognizant that the victory came from up high. Towards the end of the war, when the paratroopers liberated the Kotel, they turned to the rabbi there and asked him, “What should we say?” They knew that there was an expression of gratitude, of acknowledgment, of appreciation, that needed to be said. And the Kotel was the most fitting place to say it. The rabbi responded that they should say Shema. Sadly, they asked, “What’s that?” They may have been removed from Yiddishkeit, but they knew that there was Someone to thank. Fifty years after such a stunning miracle, the State of Israel still perseveres. And despite the fact that we don’t recognize it constantly, its existence – every day – is a miracle. Our country is just a speck on the map, there are thousands who vilify its presence, and yet, we’re still here – and we’re thriving.
very day we experience miracles; our very existence is a miracle. Last week, as I said “Elokai neshama she’nasata bi” in the morning, I felt its poignancy keenly; I was thinking about a family friend who had just tragically passed away and would never again be able to say those words. Every breath we take, every sound we utter, every word we hear, every limb we can move – a miracle. We don’t always feel the remarkable goodness that we are gifted with at every moment. Sometimes it takes the removal of that gift or seeing another without it to appreciate its value. There are times, though, when there are miracles that are so extraordinary that we see and feel them sharply and can re-experience them even years later. 50 years ago this week, in just six days the Israelis managed to defeat four of their neighbors who hungered for their demise and salivated at the thought of throwing them into the sea. The Six Day War was the second shortest war in recent history (the shortest was just 45 minutes), and its victory was decisive and overwhelming. Perhaps no one was more stunned than the Arabs when the shofar was sounded at the Kotel. Their armies were huge; they had been preparing to overthrow the Jewish government for more than a decade. And they were fighting against a bunch of Jews who were haunted by the Holocaust and spent their days endeavoring to cultivate Israel’s sandy fields. In his book, The Prime Ministers, Yehuda Avner recounts a story that took place when Prime Minister Levi Eshkol visited U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson at his ranch. He had come to the United States to ask the government for military equipment; Israel knew their neighbors were itching to attack. At the ranch, LBJ took Eshkol around
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Contents LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
8
COMMUNITY Readers’ Poll
8
Community Happenings
35
Home Run! R’ Yitzie Ross of the Five Towns Little League Talks Teams, the Secret to Winning, and Good Sportsmanship 102 NEWS
114
Global
13
National
24
Odd-but-True Stories
32
ISRAEL Israel News
17
Today I Wear Shoes by Elana Dure
86
The Six Day War or The Six Day Miracle?
89
PEOPLE 75 Years Since the Battle of Midway by Avi Heiligman
116
PARSHA Rabbi Wein
78
The Problem with Complainers by Rav Moshe Weinberger
80
JEWISH THOUGHT G-Z-Y by Eytan Kobre
82
Main Menu by Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
84
HEALTH & FITNESS Rejection by Dr. Deb Hirschhorn
98
The Healthiest Fish by Cindy Weinberger, MS RD CDN
99
Why Summer Camp is a Must by Dr. Hylton I. Lightman
100
FOOD & LEISURE The Aussie Gourmet: Vietnamese Coconut-Poached Chicken and Rice Noodle Salad 105
Dear Editor, The article on summer camps this week was wonderful. Camp is such a valuable commodity. As a child, I was a shy girl during the school year. The girls in my class had very big personalities and I didn’t click with them, feeling overwhelmed by their temperaments. When I went to camp for the first summer, my parents really had to encourage me to go. I was nervous that I wouldn’t have friends and would be stuck lonesome in a bunk – a continuation of the school year. But my parents were smart; they sent me to a smaller camp, where no one from school went. This was huge for me. In camp, I became a different person. It started out small, with me connecting to a few kids in my bunk in the first week or so of camp. Together, we made up cheers and joined in activities and laughed and made jokes, and the summer just flew by! During the school year, I kept up with those girls and my year was different. We would chat on the phone and I would sometimes get together with them on weekends. It really changed me. Each summer my excitement for camp would grow and I became a real “camp girl,” eventually being picked as co-captain of color war one year. Camp is really amazing for children. They can really blossom and excel in ways that they cannot
during the school year. I urge every parent to try their best to send their children to camp; you never know what it can do! A Reader Dear Editor, I know that there are many articles about the dangers of driving while texting. Well, perhaps you should write an article about the dangers of driving while holding animals. I am not joking – I just saw a woman in a SUV driving down Peninsula with two – yes, two – small dogs on her lap. If that is not distracting – and dangerous – and I don’t know! And besides, if she loves her dogs, she wouldn’t have them in her front seat with her where they can be flung through the windshield and crushed by airbags in an accident. Shaindy Parker Dear Editor, The article in The Jewish Home on the JWRP movement for men and women was enlightening and inspiring. I am amazed at how a “simple” trip to Israel can transform a whole family. Kudos to Lori Palatnik and her talented group for being the force to effect such a change. May they continue to have strength and energy to bring more and more groups to Israel and closer to Yiddishkeit. Continued on page 12
LIFESTYLES Dating Dialogue, Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW 94 What You Can Do with Your Business Degree by Chaim Homnick 118
89
Your Money
125
Enjoy the Simplicity while You Can by Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS 126
National Flag Day is June 14. Do you own an American flag?
HUMOR Centerfold Salmon Sandwich by Jon Kranz
76 114
POLITICAL CROSSFIRE Notable Quotes
106
To Die for Estonia? by Charles Krauthammer
113
CLASSIFIEDS
120
52
%
YES
48
%
NO
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Sale Dates: June 11th - 16th 2017
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The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Sale Dates: June 11th - 16th 2017
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
OF THE
5 TOWNS
&
Continued from 8
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When I read the article, though, I felt bad. I have been to Israel numerous times, although my busy schedule – work, raising a family, etc. – has prevented me from going recently. Wouldn’t it be wonderful for an organization to bring women to Israel who are frum and have been there before? We are also looking to connect and recharge our batteries, and a trip to the Holy Land would be an espresso-charged reboot for our souls. Has anyone considered arranging such a trip? Shira H. Dear Editor, I love the Dating Dialogue every week. The panel offers great insights – each woman providing her own perspective. This week, though, I laughed. When he wrote to the panelists asking if he should not marry a vegetarian since his family is a “foodie” family, I couldn’t believe it! Can’t we make our own decisions? Why do people feel the need to ask experts about every little detail when it comes to dating?
You like milchigs, he likes fleishigs – work it out. You like spicy, she likes sweet – work it out. Not everything is an issue that has be dissected and hashed out. Enjoy going out with the person you’re dating and see if you’re both compatible, good people. Don’t overanalyze – you are asking for trouble, and torment. Effie T.
Views expressed on the Letters to the Editor page do not necessarily reflect the views of The Jewish Home. Please send all correspondence to: editor @fivetowns jewishhome.com.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
The Week In News
Gulf Countries Sever Ties with Qatar
Qatar is being accused of supporting regional terror groups by four Arab countries – Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – in possibly the biggest diplomatic crisis to hit the Gulf since the 1991 war with Iraq. The group of nations severed ties with Qatar on Monday by cutting off land, sea, and air routes to the country. Qatar currently has 10,000 American troops on their soil and is set to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The energy-rich country insists that they do not support militant groups. They claim the crisis was ignited by “absolute fabrications” stemming from a recent hack of its state-run news agency. It seems that the source of the accusation lays within Qatar’s relationship with Iran. On May 27, Qatar’s ruling emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, called Iranian President Hasan Rouhani to congratulate him on his re-election. The Saudis regarded this friendly phone call as a clear, public rebuttal of their efforts to force Qatar to fall in line against the Shiite-ruled nation, which the Sunni kingdom sees as its No. 1 enemy and a threat to regional stability. Qatar shares a massive offshore gas field with Iran, complicating matters. Shortly after, Qatar’s state-run agency published comments from the government about Iran and Israel, inflaming tensions. Qatar is claiming that those comments were completely false and were made by hackers. The shutdown has major implications in the Middle East. Saudi Ara-
bia shut its land border with Qatar, through which the tiny Gulf nation imports most of its food. The four countries began withdrawing their diplomatic staff from Qatar as regional airlines announced they’d suspend service to its capital, Doha. The countries demanded that their ambassadors return within 14 days. They also said they would eject Qatar’s diplomats from their territories. Citizens were told to return home from Qatar, and Qataris living abroad were commanded to head back to their home country. Saudi Arabia said the decision was due to Qatar’s “embrace of various terrorist and sectarian groups aimed at destabilizing the region” including the Muslim Brotherhood, al-Qaeda, and the Islamic State group. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry accused Qatar of taking an “antagonist approach” toward Cairo and said “all attempts to stop it from supporting terrorist groups failed.” Qatar Airways, one of the region’s main long-distance carriers that routinely flies through Saudi airspace, redirected some of its flights through Iranian airspace on Monday. Saudi Arabia said it would begin blocking all Qatari flights at midnight. Premier UAE airlines Etihad and Emirates announced they would suspend flights to Qatar, as did budget carriers Air Arabia and FlyDubai. Bahrain’s Gulf Air and Saudia joined them. The Qatar Stock Exchange fell more than 7%. Qatar’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said there was “no legitimate justification” for the countries’ decision, though it vowed its citizens wouldn’t be affected by it. “The Qatari Government will take all necessary measures to ensure this and to thwart attempts to influence and harm the Qatari society and economy,” it said. Saudi Arabia also announced that Qatari troops will be dismissed from the continuing war in Yemen. Yemen’s internationally backed government, which no longer holds its capital and large portions of the country, also cut relations with Qatar, as did the Maldives. FIFA, international soccer’s governing body, said it remained in regular contact with Qatar but did not hint to any change of plans for 2022. Qatar also hosts the al-Udeid Air Base, which is home to the forward headquarters of the U.S. military’s Central Command. It wasn’t clear if the decision would affect American military operations. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson,
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speaking in Sydney, Australia, said he didn’t believe the diplomatic crisis would affect the war against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria. “I think what we’re witnessing is a growing list of disbelief in the countries for some time, and they’ve bubbled up to take action in order to have those differences addressed,” he said. “We certainly would encourage the parties to sit down together and address these differences.”
London under Attack
It’s been a sad few weeks for the U.K., with multiple terror attacks pummeling the nation. Last week, a suicide bomber in Manchester killed
23 and wounded 119, 23 critically. This weekend a famous landmark in London was the site of an attack. Three terrorists rammed a van into pedestrians on London Bridge and then began randomly stabbing civilians nearby at Borough Market. Seven people were killed and another 48 injured. Borough Market is a strip of bars and restaurants. Eyewitnesses claim that the three murderers jumped out of the van and began stabbing people indiscriminately. Some civilians attempted to barricade themselves in a pub while others tried throwing tables and other objects to fend off the attackers. One eyewitness said the attackers screamed, “This is for Allah” as they stabbed people. On Sunday, British Prime Minister Theresa May called for a stronger response to Islamist extremism. May said there is too much tolerance of extremism in Britain. “It is time to say enough is enough,” the Conservative leader said outside her Downing Street office, where British flags flew at half-mast, symbolizing mourning. “We cannot and must not pretend that things can continue as they are,” May said. She demanded increased security and increased efforts on
counter-terrorism strategy including harsher jail sentences and regulating online posts promoting extremism. “While we have made significant progress in recent years, there is – to be frank – far too much tolerance of extremism in our country,” she said. One of the victims was a Canadian citizen and a bride-to-be. Chrissy Archibald, 30, was at the site with her fiancé Tyler Ferguson when she was hit by the van. She died in his arms. “I am heartbroken that a Canadian is among those killed,” Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a statement. “Canadians stand united with the British people.” The three male terrorists were shot dead by police at the scene within eight minutes of the first emergency call, which came in at 10:00 p.m. Mark Rowley, head of counter-terrorism police, said eight officers had fired about 50 bullets at the attackers, who appeared to be suicide bombers because they were wearing what turned out to be fake suicide vests. Khuram Shazad Butt, Rachid Redouane, and Youssef Zaghba were the three murderers who carried out the attacks. Both Butt and Redouane had links to addresses in east Lon-
don, which were raided overnight. The Metropolitan Police said officers entered properties in Newham and Barking at 4:15AM on Monday. At least 12 people are in custody in connection with the attack. Metropolitan Police Assistant Commissioner Mark Rowley said Butt, a 27-year-old British national born in Pakistan, was known to security services, but there was no evidence of “attack planning.” He had appeared in a British TV documentary called “The Jihadis Next Door” in which he and others were shown pledging allegiance to ISIS. Redouane, 30, claimed to be Moroccan and Libyan. Zaghba was a Moroccan-Italian whose mother lived in the northern Italian city of Bologna. Just a few months ago, in March, a similar attack occurred at Westminster Bridge in central London. Five people were killed. President Trump used this as an opportunity to express his views on terrorism. He tweeted on Sunday, urging the world to stop being “politically correct” in order to ensure public security against terrorism. He also offered the U.S.’s assistance to Britain. On Tuesday, at 11AM, Britain held
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a nationwide moment of silence for the victims of the attacks and all flags remained at half-mast until Tuesday evening. The U.K. heads to the polls this Thursday and the recent terror attacks will surely play a role in which way citizens pull the lever.
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Sanctions against North Korea have been expanded by the United Nations Security Council. The targeted sanctions were widened after North Korea repeated its missile testing. This marks the first sanctions that Donald Trump’s government and China have worked on together since Trump took office. China is considered to be Pyongyang’s only major ally but Trump has been pressing China to help rein in the dictatorship and their nuclear aspirations. North Korea has vowed to develop nuclear-tipped missiles that are capable of hitting the United States. The Trump administration has made clear that they will not allow such developments to continue. “The United States will continue to seek a peaceful, diplomatic resolution to this situation,” U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley told the council after the vote. Haley then added that “beyond diplomatic and financial consequences, the United States remains prepared to counteract North Korean aggression through other means, if necessary.” The most recent sanction escalation included adding many North Korean names to the UN blacklist. A name on the list means a worldwide travel ban and asset freeze. “The Security Council is sending a clear message to North Korea today: stop firing ballistic missiles or face the consequences,” Haley said. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the 15-member council.
Fighters from the Islamic fundamentalist terror group Maute have seized most of Malawi City, a large urban city on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines. The group has pledged allegiance to ISIS, and the death toll is already over 200. In twelve days, Maute militants took over the police station, stole weapons and ammunition, placed roadblocks at key thoroughfares, and planted snipers strategically throughout the city. The seizing of the city is another large indication that ISIS has their eyes on Southeast Asia. The terror group is globalizing their brutal tactics that have been seen mostly in Iraq and Syria. Mindanao has seen an increase in radical Islamic extremists over the past two decades. Many have feared that as ISIS loses ground in the Middle East, their fighters will return home to wreak havoc there. “If we do nothing, they get a foothold in this region,” said Hishammuddin Hussein, the defense minister of neighboring Malaysia. According to The Combating Terrorism Center, a West Point think tank, ISIS is leveraging military groups in Southeast Asia to expand its presence in the region. Philippines President Rodrigo Détente has had a difficult time regaining control of the city. He has declared martial law in Mindanao and fired Brigadier-General Nixon Fortes, the commander of the army brigade in Malawi.
Polish School Honors Jews Expelled During Nazi Regime In the decades following the Holocaust, many Poles have attempted to commemorate the Jews who lived
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in Poland before WWII. Last week, in Krakow, a No. 2 middle school celebrated its 125th anniversary by commemorating the 87 Jewish girls who were expelled in 1939 during the Nazi occupation. Lital Be’er, director of Yad Vashem’s Reference and Information Services, explained that her researchers worked for almost two years at the school’s request to determine the fate of the 87 girls. Sadly, it was determined that 21 were killed in the Holocaust and 24 survived; the fate of the remaining girls could not be determined. Be’er explained that it was difficult to trace the girls since many changed their names to Hebrew names when they settled in Israel and many changed their last names upon marriage. Two years ago, principal Gabriela Olszowska reached out to Yad Vashem after discovering a pile of records that included a list of the 87 Jewish girls expelled on December 9, 1939, following orders from the German Nazi authorities. “I was very moved by the principal’s initiative to research the girls and commemorate them,” Be’er said. “We want to embrace those initiatives as much as we can.” Zvia Fried, who conducted much of the research for Yad Vashem, took part in the ceremony, saying that it was “very moving” and included prayers led by a rabbi and a Roman Catholic priest.
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Israeli nuclear scholar Avner Cohen recently revealed that during the Six Day War the IDF developed a “doomsday” plan to set off an atomic bomb in the Sinai Peninsula as a warning to their Arab enemies. The information is based largely on inter-
views Cohen conducted in 1999 with retired IDF brigadier general Yitzhak Yaakov, who oversaw the plan in 1967. According to Yaakov, the country was very scared of its Arab neighbors. “Look, it was so natural,” Yaakov said. “You’ve got an enemy, and he says he’s going to throw you to the sea. You believe him. How can you stop him? You scare him. If you’ve got
something you can scare him with, you scare him.” In the interview, Yaakov details the plan which was code-named Shimshon. Commandos were to fly helicopters to a mountaintop 12 miles from an Egyptian military complex at Abu Ageila. “The plan, if activated by order of the prime minister and military chief of staff, was to send a small paratrooper force to divert the
Egyptian Army in the desert area so that a team could lay preparations for the atomic blast,” his report says. “Two large helicopters were to land, deliver the nuclear device, and then create a command post in a mountain creek or canyon. If the order came to detonate, the blinding flash and mushroom cloud would have been seen throughout the Sinai and Negev deserts, and perhaps as far
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away as Cairo.” Israel has never publicly admitted to having nuclear weapons. However, many top American officials, including former Secretary of State Colin Powell, have confirmed that they have seen Israel’s nuclear capabilities. Powell wrote in a leaked private email that he believes Israel has some 200 nuclear weapons. Deputy Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office Michael Oren has expressed skepticism about the recent revelations of a nuclear possibility during the Six Day War, citing the fact that there is only one source, Avner Cohen, that has made this claim. The atomic plan was never acted upon as Israel won a quick and decisive victory in the Six Day War. Had Israel set off the nuke, they would have been the first country to do so in wartime since the United States dropped two bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
Trump Puts Embassy Move on Hold
Any plans that President Donald Trump had to move the U.S. embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem have been put on an at least six month hold. Trump signed a waiver this past week that backs him out of his campaign promise – at least for now. When making the announcement, the White House maintained that its support for Israel has not weakened. “While President Donald J. Trump signed the waiver under the Jerusalem Embassy Act and delayed moving the U.S. Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, no one should consider this step to be in any way a retreat from the president’s strong support for Israel and for the United States-Israel alliance,” the White House statement said. “President Trump made this decision to maximize the chances of successfully negotiating a deal between Israel and the Palestinians, fulfilling his solemn obligation to defend America’s
national security interests. But, as he has repeatedly stated his intention to move the embassy, the question is not if that move happens, but only when.” Since he took office, Trump has distanced himself from the promise he made. He did not mention the move last week during his trip to Israel. Reportedly, conversations with many Arab leaders, especially King Abdullah II of Jordan at the National Prayer Breakfast in February, led to Trumps cooling toward the idea. They claim that an embassy move at this time would cause further unrest in the region and make it difficult for their countries to play a role in any peace process. A 1995 law requires the U.S. Embassy to be moved to Jerusalem but allows the president to postpone the move for national security reasons. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama had all exercised that right every year since the law was drafted. The most recent waiver expired on June 1. Israel captured East Jerusalem and the West Bank from Jordan during the 1967 Six Day War – 50 years ago. Israel’s annexation of East Jerusalem has never been formally recognized by the international community. Palestinians claim that East Jerusalem is the capital of their future state. Moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem would be seen as endorsing Israel’s claim to the entire city and rejecting the Palestinians’ rights to East Jerusalem as their capital.
Abbas Admits Trump Yelled at Him
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas admitted that President Trump yelled at him during a meeting between the two leaders last week. During their talks in Bethlehem, Trump reportedly castigated Abbas, “You tricked me in D.C.! You talked there about your
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Education (IMPACT-se) group released a report which found that PA textbooks in the first to fourth grade demonize Israel and glorify “martyrdom.” The document cited an “alarming deterioration” in content since the previous study.
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commitment to peace, but the Israelis showed me your involvement in incitement.” The two met for the first time in Washington, D.C., on May 3. According to local Arab news outlets, the meeting became silent for a few moments after the outburst while the surprised Palestinians scrambled to get the meeting back on track. Until this revelation was con-
firmed, Palestinian sources had denied the report and said that the meeting was “comfortable and substantive.” Abbas has now admitted that Trump did get angry with him and brought up a video of Abbas saying that “we incite and the Israelis incite.” Abbas claimed that the video was edited to make him look bad. In their May 3 joint press conference
at the White House, Abbas said that Palestinians are “raising our youth, our children, our grandchildren on a culture of peace.” Benjamin Netanyahu hit back hard and said that the claim was “unfortunately not true.” The PA, Netanyahu charged, “names their schools after mass murderers of Israelis and pays terrorists.” In April, the Monitoring Peace and Cultural Tolerance in School
Members of the terrorist organization Hamas have been asked to leave the Persian Gulf nation of Qatar. The request came following “external pressures” to pressure the Gaza-based terrorists, according to an unidentified Qatari government source. A list of Hamas members that were required to leave the country was given to senior Hamas officials in Doha last week. The Qatari envoy, according to Lebanese news sources, expressed “regret” over the decision. The news agency also hinted that Israel was responsible for putting pressure on Qatar. The source claims that those on the expulsion list were put on the list after Israeli officials arrested and interrogated other Hamas members. MK Isaac Herzog praised Qatar’s decision. “The decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to declare Hamas a terrorist organization, and Qatar’s decision to distance itself from the group, foretells unprecedented movement in the Middle East,” Herzog said in a statement. “There’s no doubt that there is an unprecedented opportunity in the region.” President Trump called out Hamas as a terrorist organization in front of the leaders of 55 Muslim countries in Riyadh last month. “The true toll of ISIS, al-Qaeda, Hezbollah, Hamas, and so many others must be counted not only in the number of dead; it must also be counted in generations of vanished dreams,” Trump said.
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Over $1B in PA Terror Payments
Over the past four years, the Palestinian Authority has paid over $1.12 billion to terrorists and families of terrorists that died in terror attacks. That means that the PA has allocated over seven percent of its annual budget to paying terrorists, and over 20 percent of the foreign aid it receives ends up in the coffers of those imprisoned for committing terror crimes against Israel. The “salary” that one receives if he is sentenced to jail for fighting the “struggle against Zionism” is commensurate with the jail sentence they receive. Anyone who is sentenced to 30 years of jail time – which, of course, is given to the worst offenders – receives a monthly salary of NIS 12,000 ($3,360). To put that into perspective, the average monthly salary for a Palestinian is only $400. The blood money is paid from the moment the sentence is delivered. When terrorists are released from jail they also receive a lump sum based on how long they spent behind bars. In addition to their get-out-of-jail cash, they also have a guaranteed job in either the civilian sector or in the PA security forces. Again, a better job goes to those with a longer jail sentence. The support of terror was put into law in 2004. The strict laws mandate the payments to those that are entitled to “heroic treatment and recognition.” Although such payments are in direct conflict with the signed agreements in the Oslo Accords, the international community and Israel have overlooked them for many reasons. Ironically, many in Israel fear that if the support of terror would be brought to light and the West acted against these payments, the PA would collapse and there would be an even larger security threat in the vacuum.
ISIS in Sinai
ISIS has an affiliate in the Sinai Peninsula known as the Sinai Province. The IDF recently closed the border between Egypt and Israel based on information that ISIS operatives were gathering data on Israeli targets in the peninsula in order to carry out a terror attack on Israelis staying at Red Sea resorts and at the Taba crossing. Until now, the Egyptian military has been able to keep ISIS and their affiliates from operating along the Sinai’s coastal strip. The recent chatter that forced Israel to keep its citizens from spending Pesach in the region shows that the group is still trying to infiltrate and cause destruction in the region. Hamas and ISIS have been at odds with each other lately, and Hamas has arrested many ISIS operatives that were operating in the region. Hamas has built a series of military posts on the Gaza’s border with Sinai, along the Philadelphia Corridor. The posts are similar to those Hamas has along its border with Israel. Hamas also arrested members of other terror networks that it views as a threat to its rule. ISIS has responded by restricting the influx of smuggled goods into Gaza.
Norway Pulls Support for Center Named for Terrorist Norway has been praised by Israel for pulling out funds it had previously earmarked for a West Bank women’s center after learning it was named for a Palestinian terrorist. The Scandinavian country had planned on donating the money for a center in Buraq that opened last week. It is named for Dalal Mughrabi, a murderer who led a 1978 massacre on a highway near Tel Aviv in
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which 37 civilians were killed. Many of the victims were children, and dozens others were injured in the attack. “The glorification of terrorist attacks is completely unacceptable, and I deplore this decision in the strongest possible terms,” Norway’s foreign minister, Borge Brende, said in a statement. “Norway will not allow itself to be associated with institutions that take the names of terrorists in this way. We will not accept the use of Norwegian aid funding for such purposes.
“We have asked for the logo of the Norwegian office to be removed from the building immediately, and for the funding that has been allocated to the center to be repaid,” he continued. “We will not enter into any new agreements with either the Palestinian Election Commission or
UN Women in Palestinian areas until satisfactory procedures are in place to ensure that nothing of this nature happens again.” Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that “Norway has done the right thing. Standing strongly against the positive commemoration of terrorists is an essential part of the international effort to eradicate terrorism. Israel suggests that all members of the international community check where money invested in the Palestinian Authority ends up and expects all other partners in this project to follow Norway’s example.” Even the UN denounced the naming choice and pulled its financial support as well. The UN also called for the center to remove its United Nations Women logo from the building.
U.S.: Stop “Chronic AntiIsrael Bias” On Tuesday, the Trump administration gave formal notice that
it is reviewing its participation in the UN Human Rights Council and called for reforming the body to eliminate what it called its “chronic anti-Israel bias.” “The United States is looking carefully at this Council and our participation in it. We see some areas for significant strengthening,” Nikki Haley, U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, told the Geneva forum, opening a three-week session.
The council’s critical stance of Israel has long been a contentious issue for the United States, Israel’s main ally. Washington says the council is stacked with opponents of Israel and boycotted it for three years under President George W. Bush before rejoining under Barack Obama in 2009.
Haley said the United States was dedicated to protecting human rights, which are closely linked to peace and security. The 47-member forum adopted five “biased” resolutions on Israel and the Palestinian territory at its March session, but never even considered a resolution on Venezuela, she pointed out. She called for the Council to address serious human rights violations in Venezuela and for the government of President Nicolas Maduro to address them. “If Venezuela cannot, it should voluntarily step down from its seat on the Human Rights Council until it can get its own house in order. Being a member of this council is a privilege, and no country who is a human rights violator should be allowed a seat at the table,” she said. At least 65 people have died in the unrest in Venezuela since early April, with hundreds more injured. Haley also called for the council to adopt strong resolutions on abuses in Syria, Eritrea, Belarus, Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo at its session.
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Leaker is Reality Winner The feds took swift action when they charged Reality Leigh Winner on Monday with gathering, transmitting or losing defense information. The 25-year-old is an NSA contractor who is accused of sending a top secret document to a news outlet. The charges come just days after authorities were tipped off to the leak, a commendation to investigators who generally aren’t able to find or prosecute leakers. Court documents did not identify the document that was leaked or the news outlet that received it, but the criminal complaint against Winner was unveiled shortly after the national security site the Intercept published a story containing an NSA report on Russian efforts to interfere with the 2016 election. The story described how Russian military intelligence used hacking
ine 3 l d e1 ea l d jun a Rn d to u o j nde e ext
techniques against a U.S. voting software supplier and more than 100 local election officials in the days before voters went to the polls. The Intercept called the classified document the “most detailed U.S. government account of Russian interference in the election that has yet come to light,” saying it indicated that Russian hacking may have gone deeper than previously known.
News Outlet and determined the pages of the intelligence reporting appeared to be folded and/or creased,” the affidavit reads, “suggesting they had been printed and hand-carried out of a secured space.” An internal audit showed that six people had printed out the top-secret materials after they were published at the beginning of the month. One of them was Winner, who worked for Pluribus International at a facility in Georgia, the affidavit says. Investigators said they searched Winner’s work computer and found that she had emailed the news outlet in March from a personal account. In her message, they said, she appeared to ask for transcripts of a podcast. In response, the news outlet “confirmed Winner’s subscription to the service,” according to the affidavit. The review of Winner’s computer history also showed that on May 9 she searched the agency’s classified system using search terms that led her to the report, the affidavit says. That day she printed the document. The agency told the FBI about the leak on June 1. The same day, the affidavit says, an unidentified government contractor contacted the agency to say he had been in touch with
A search warrant affidavit filed in federal court in Georgia reveals how it took just a few days for investigators to single out Winner as the alleged source of the leak. It started on May 30, when the news outlet showed authorities the printed materials and asked them to comment, according to the affidavit. “The U.S. Government Agency examined the document shared by the
a reporter from the news outlet, who had texted pictures of the document. “The Contractor informed the Reporter that he thought that the documents were fake,” the affidavit reads. “Nevertheless, the Contractor contacted the U.S. Government Agency on or about June 1, 2017, to inform the U.S. Government Agency of his interaction with the reporter.” FBI agents swooped into Winner’s one-story red brick house in Augusta, Georgia, the next day. She was arrested on Saturday and admitted “removing the classified intelligence reporting from her office space, retaining it, and mailing it from Augusta, Georgia, to the news outlet,” court documents read. Winner doesn’t feel like a real winner at this time. She remains in jail pending a detention hearing. According to Rob Graham, who writes for the blog Errata Security, the Intercept’s scanned images of the intelligence report contained tracking dots — small, barely visible yellow dots that show “exactly when and where documents, any document, is printed.” Nearly all modern color printers feature such tracking markers, which are used to identify a printer’s serial number and
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Pretty soon Amazon will be taking out your garbage and doing your laundry – the internet giant seems to be taking over the world one step at a time. Back in 1994, before the internet influenced every aspect of our lives, Amazon was founded as an online bookstore. Now it is the largest internet retailer in the world. Last Tuesday, Amazon shares reached an all-time high of $1,000 per share, putting the company’s market capital at more than $477 billion. (Not a bad day for Jeff Bezos.) Two years ago, in 2015, Amazon surpassed Walmart as the most valuable retailer in the U.S. by market capitalization. Over the years the company has expanded and began selling pretty much everything including electronics, clothing, groceries, movies, furniture, and services. In May 1997 Amazon went public. On the first day of trading on the NASDAQ the retailer sold 72,156,000 shares and the stock closed at $23.50. If you got in then, you’re brilliant, congratulations, and don’t let go just yet. Just over a year later, Amazon shares closed at over $100 in July 1998. At that time the retailer announced it was expanding their wares to include CDs and DVDs. By 2001, Amazon made its first quarterly profit. In 2002, Amazon launched its web cloud services which now powers millions of companies and generated revenue of $3.66 billion in the first three months of 2017. Our most cherished feature, Amazon Prime, a premium membership with free and fast shipping on millions of products, was born in 2005. At that time the fee was $79; now prime members pay
$99 per year. The revolutionary Amazon Kindle made its debut in 2007. In July 2010, Amazon announced that the sales of Kindle eBooks outnumbered hardcovers for the first time. In 2013, just when we thought Amazon couldn’t make our lives any easier than it already has, Amazon announced its drone delivery system, Amazon Prime Air. The program promised to deliver packages within 30 minutes via drones, small flying devices. The first delivery was made in Cambridge in the United Kingdom in December 2016. In July 2015 Amazon celebrated its 20th anniversary by hitting the $500 mark on the market. And now, less than two years later, stocks briefly hit $1,000 a share. Who knows what 2018 will bring for this ever-evolving enterprise?
Walmart Workers: Now Making House Calls
Select Walmart employees have been presented with the opportunity to moonlight as deliverymen. The retailer is testing out a new service that delivers goods right to your doorstep by conscientious workers at the end of the day. The concept relies on employees who volunteer to drop off packages at customers’ homes on their commute home from work. Walmart published a blog post on their site on Thursday saying the idea was intended to make their delivery service more fast and convenient and to help their employees earn some extra cash. The program is being piloted in a store in New Jersey and another in Arkansas. So far Walmart claims that “the response from associates and customers has been great.” The program is organized through an app designed for the program. Employees sign up to offer services through the app and they are alerted when there’s an order destined for a location that’s on their
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route home. The company says often orders end up being delivered the day after they’re placed. It seems sameday service is a goal for Walmart, a company that is clearly attempting to compete with Amazon’s same-day delivery services. “It just makes sense,” the company said in the blog post. “Walmart has strength in numbers with 4,700 stores across the U.S. and more than a million associates. Our stores put us within 10 miles of 90% of the U.S. population.” The company did not reveal what kind of compensation employees are being offered to deliver goods to customers but insists that workers have full liberty when, how, and if they want to participate. “Associates choose how many packages they can deliver, the size and weight limits of those packages, and which days they’re able to make deliveries after work,” the blog post says. “It’s completely up to them, and they can update those preferences at any time.” Sounds like a win-win for everybody.
Who Earns the Most?
The average person spends 90,000 hours at work over their lifetime, according to Business Insider, and that’s why it is important to choose a career that is fulfilling and satisfying. Compensation accounts for a large part of a person’s contentment in the workplace. Where should you be working that will earn you the most dough? Each year, 24/7 Wall St. reviews data from the U.S. Department of Labor to determine the best paying jobs in the country. The good news for everybody is that in 2016 the overall average salary of middle and low income earners increased. (Certainly, many will suggest that the increase simply accounts for inflation.) The average full-time employee earns $832 weekly, but many low income earners scrape together a weekly salary of
just $400. On the other side of the pay scale, many of the highest paid workers earn as much as $2,000 each week. A common theme amongst the highest paying jobs is that many require extensive schooling. Also, some of the highest paid workers advance through the ranks and gain more responsibility; their salaries are com-
mensurate with their accomplishments. Want to grow your bank account? The ten best paying jobs and their weekly salaries in the U.S. are: 1. Chief executives ($2,303) 2. Architectural and engineering managers ($2,258) 3. Pharmacist ($1,924) 4. Physicians and surgeons
($1,916) Lawyers ($1,897) Chemical engineers ($1,877) Aerospace engineers ($1,854) Dentists ($1,850) Computer hardware engineers ($1,843) 10. Software developers, applications and systems software ($1,776) 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
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Trump Proposes More Efficiency in U.S. Air Traffic
The Trump administration has no plans of slowing down anytime soon. On Monday, the White House announced plans to transfer control of the U.S. air traffic control system to a non-profit corporation. The goal is to lower costs and improve efficiency. The move would cause the transfer of about 15,000 controllers and thousands of other managers and technical workers to a new government-sanctioned corporation. The proposal is based on legislation introduced in 2016 by Representative Bill Shuster, the Pennsylvania Republican who is the chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. It would create a new user fee on aircraft using the system to replace current taxes on aviation fuel and airline tickets. The proposal suggested a 13-member board of directors for the new corporation composed of appointees from industry stakeholder groups. Last year the plan was not received well by Congress, as critics were concerned that the proposal would give too much power to airlines. This initiative is part of Trump’s campaign promise to reform U.S. infrastructure. Later this week Trump is expected to travel to Ohio to garner support for another aspect of his plan – to channel $1 trillion into the nation’s roads, bridges, inland waterways and other public facilities. DJ Gribbin, a special assistant to the president, says that these major moves are designed to shrink government and reduce taxes. During a briefing on Monday morning he pointed out, “All of those elements line up very nicely with the president’s view.” Opposers were quick to shoot down the proposal. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer claimed that it would impose “tolls from one end of America to the other.” The focus on privatization will lead to “less
construction and far fewer jobs,” Schumer said in a statement. Despite Mr. Schumer’s skepticism, most airlines welcomed the proposal. American Airlines Group Inc., the world’s largest carrier, said it looked forward to working with the Trump administration “to make air travel cleaner, safer and more efficient.” “The antiquated system we rely on today is inefficient and causes thousands of avoidable flight delays,” Shannon Gilson, a spokeswoman for American, said in an emailed statement. “If we aren’t able to modernize and innovate using the latest technology, the impacts to the traveling public will continue to grow.” Many other countries – including Canada and the U.K. and about 60 others – have made a similar transition to semi-private management of their air traffic networks which has been successful. Under Trump’s plan, the FAA will still monitor safety and write air traffic regulations.
Do Not Disturb While Driving
Have you ever been driving on the 878, phone in your bag, when suddenly it starts vibrating? Who is texting you? Is it the kids? Your boss? Your husband? But wait, you’re driving. Can’t that text wait just a few minutes? We all know it’s hard and requires a lot of willpower to not look at your phone while you’re driving. Now, Apple is endeavoring to make it a bit easier to be safer on the road. When iOS 11 comes to iPhones (and iPads) this fall, the new operating system will include a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode users can turn on. Once the feature is turned on, your iPhone can tell when you may be driving and will automatically mute your notifications so your screen remains dark. You can also set up your device to send your favorite contacts an automatic reply to tell them you are driving and will get back to them when you arrive.
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“It’s all about keeping your eyes on the road,” Apple Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi Federighi said. “When you are driving you don’t need to be responding to these kind of messages.” Most contacts will receive a note saying, “I’ll see your message when I get where I’m going,” he said. But special contacts can be allowed to
pass through so “you have the peace of mind that you can get contacted … and that message will go through,” Federighi said. “We think this is going to be a real important step in safety in the car,” he added. Texting and driving continues to be a hazard and has contributed to an increase in road fatalities. At least 46 states prohibit texting while
driving – and 14 states ban the use of handheld devices – but public safety advocates have continued to look for more ways to decrease the practice. An Israeli tech company called Cellebrite and a New York man whose son died in a collision in which texting may have occurred are developing a “textalyzer” they hope can be used by law enforcement to see
According to officials that are conducting a review of our national policies towards Cuba, the Trump administration is planning to roll back some of President Obama’s Cuba concessions. Many current and former administration officials have corroborated that Trump is expected to announce that the United States will no longer make unilateral concessions to Cuba – something Obama was criticized for. Trump is also expected to demand the return of U.S. fugitives of justice that have taken up residence in Cuba. One such example is Assata Shakur, who killed a New Jersey State trooper, escaped from jail, and is now under political asylum in Cuba. Trump made many campaign promises concerning the small island nation to conservative Cuban-American voters and anti-Castro members of Congress. “I’m 1,000 percent sure the president is going to deliver on his commitment,” said Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Florida. Diaz-Balart has been lobbying the White House to reverse the Obama policy. “I have no doubt that you’re going to see in short order a different policy.” The president has yet to make any public announcement as to what his future policy on Cuba will be now that he is in the White House. On May 20, which is considered by many to be Cuba’s Independence Day, Trump issued a statement saying, “The Cuban people deserve a government that peacefully upholds democratic values, economic liberties, religious freedoms, and human rights, and my Administration is committed to achieving that vision.” Raul Castro, who was given control of the country by his brother Fidel, has said that he will step down in February 2018. It is possible that Trump is waiting to see who the new leader will be before making any policy decisions.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
How Peaceful is the United States?
One of our most natural instincts is our safety and security – think the body’s natural fight-or-flight response – making security one of the primary concerns of governments. In the 11th annual “Global Peace Index” for the most peaceful countries on Earth, America fell eleven places. In 2015, America was the 103rd most peaceful country in the world. This year, though, it fell to 114th place. The United States was one of the 68 countries that became “less peaceful” over last year; on the other hand, 93 nations became “more peaceful.” The index, produced by the Australia-based Institute for Economics and Peace, accounts for a variety of social, economic and political factors, including rates of crime, homicide, and terrorism. “Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Portugal, Austria, and Denmark. There was also very little change at the bottom of the index. Syria remains the least peaceful country in the world, followed by Afghanistan, Iraq, South Sudan, and Yemen,” the report said. Most U.S. allies are in the top 20 most peaceful countries in the world, including Canada, Japan, Australia, Ireland and Germany, except for the U.K., which ranks 41. The Pew Research reports that violent crime in the U.S. has dropped sharply over the past 25 years, and property crime has declined significantly over the long term as well. Despite that, “the U.S. deterioration is primarily driven by the growing intensity of internal conflict within the country, which was partly seen in the divisive 2016 presidential election, as well as increases in the perceptions of criminality across American society,” the analysis said, also citing the impact of “rising homicide rates in several major American cities” and recent terrorist attacks.
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Trump Withdraws from Paris Climate Agreement The media went into a frenzy last week when President Donald Trump
announced that he will navigate the U.S. out of the Paris Climate Agreement. Despite him making the decision, the withdrawal won’t be complete for another few years. In December 2015, 195 nations, including the U.S., signed the Paris Agreement intended to keep the planet from warming by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial
levels. The threshold was determined by scientists who claim they could prevent the planet from launching into a tailspin of irreversible consequences, from unpredictable superstorms to crippling heat waves. As part of the agreement, all participating countries submitted a climate-action plan mapping out how they will adopt clean energy
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and phase out fossil fuels. The U.S.’s plan, which the Obama administration submitted in March 2015, set the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 26% to 28% by 2025. The baseline level this reduction is measured against is 2005, when the U.S. emitted 6,132 million metric tons of carbon dioxide.
According to the bylaws of the agreement, the earliest Trump is able to give written notice of the U.S.’s withdrawal is November 2019, and the U.S. wouldn’t officially exit it until November 4, 2020 — the day after the next presidential election. It would take a year to exit the overall UN agreement and would probably require Senate approval. Trump didn’t specify that he wanted to abandon the overall treaty; in fact, he did say that he is willing to
renegotiate the agreement. “I’m willing to immediately work with Democratic leaders to either negotiate our way back into Paris under the terms that are fair to the United States and its workers or to negotiate a new deal that protects our country and its taxpayers,” he said last Thursday. Withdrawing from the accord made many hearts go aflutter. Tesla CEO Elon Musk made good on his vow to quit the president’s economic council if Trump opted out of Paris. “Climate change is real,” Musk tweeted. “Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world.” Others pointed out that by withdrawing the United States will be left out of further negotiations. Trump, though, insists that he is willing to renegotiate with better terms for the United States.
Mets do Seventh Inning Stretch – Times Two Mets fans may try to quickly forget about the 11-1 beating that the Pittsburgh Pirates hit the Mets with last Sunday at Citi Field, but the
game will forever be part of NY Mets trivia. No, it’s not the drastic score – unfortunately there are lots of those beat-downs for the Mets these days. Rather, it was the seventh inning stretch…both of them.
With one out in the seventh inning, Pittsburgh first baseman John Jaso appeared to ground into an inning-ending double play. The Mets cleared the field, and the crowd stood for the seventh inning stretch, singing “G-d Bless America.” But Pittsburgh challenged the play because Mets second baseman Neil Walker did not have his foot on second base. The call was reversed after the umpire reviewed the replay and the Mets retook the field. After Pittsburgh tagged on one more run, the Mets got the third out and fans stood again for the seventh inning stretch. This time the 35,000 fans in the stands went straight for “Take me Out to the Ballgame,” having already sung “G-d Bless America.” Hey, at least one thing about the Mets 2017 season will be memorable.
619,300 Reasons
A restaurant in Washington, Kansas, chose to close its doors on Memorial Day in honor of U.S. soldiers who have been lost in war. The sign posted outside the restaurant, Mayberry’s, quickly went viral due to its poignancy. “People talk about Memorial Day being the start of summer and that sort of thing, but what it’s really about is those people who died. I hope people think about them,” said Kelly Ray, who manages the restaurant and
made the sign. It listed the number of American soldiers who have died fighting for the United States in each war since World War I. The title of the sign read, “We have 619,300 reasons to be closed on Monday!” Ray told KWCH TV that many patrons thanked him for putting up the sign. One veteran thanked him in person, but Ray stopped him. “I said, ‘No, thank you,’” Ray told KWCH. “‘You guys are the reason we’re here and we appreciate that.’ He said, ‘[Darn] shame more people don’t think like that.’”
Ode to a Pizza
Writing a college essay is as easy as (a pizza) pie. When Carolina Williams was asked to write about something she loves to do on her application to Yale University, she thought of pizza. “Honestly, I thought I should go with the first thing that popped in my head,” Williams said. “It was completely genuine.” In 200 words or less, Williams started off her essay: “The sound of my doorbell start off high, then the pitch mellows out...I have spent several minutes analyzing its tone because I have had many opportunities to do so, as one thing I love to do is order pizza and have it delivered to my house...” She continued, “Accepting those warm cardboard boxes at my front door is second nature to me, but I will always love ordering pizza because of the way eight slices of something so ordinary are able to evoke feelings of independence, consolation and joy.” Williams should have sent along a pie with her application. When she received her acceptance to Yale in the mail, the Yale admissions officer wrote a friendly note, “As a fellow lover of pizza, I laughed out loud (then ordered pizza) after reading
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your application.” Williams exulted when she was accepted. She put on a Yale t-shirt and ordered – what else?! – a pie from Papa John’s. Lest you think that pizza will open all doors to all colleges know that Williams ranked in the top ten of her class. She was active in the community and participated in many honors classes. Despite her acceptance to Yale, Williams will be attending Auburn University to pursue business because she felt that it was a better fit and liked the scholarships. Wonder if they have a Papa John’s nearby?
6-Twelve Slurpees
finished with the convenience store business. He opened up a new store – named 6-Twelve – across the street from his old 7-Eleven. “My goal is to get them to close,” the wily businessman admitted. “I know the price of everything in that store so I sell the same things cheaper.” Around half of his former customers have followed him across the street. “I come here because of him,” customer Dave Duffley said. “He greets everyone with a smile, and this feels like an American success story. Corporate pushed him out, so he went right across the street and opened his own shop. What’s not to love?” Hey, Musa. Any free Slurpees on 6-12?
Three Raccoons and a Café
When Abu Musa got fed up with the 7-Eleven company, he sought to get even. Musa owned a 7-Eleven franchise in South Boston. But he says that the company forced him to sell hot food that customers rarely bought. “They’d sit there on the rollers, no one would buy them, and every day I would throw out $200 to $300 worth of food that I had to pay for,” Musa said. He was then asked to begin offering chicken wings and pizza and to hire an extra worker to man the hot food counter. Ultimately, 7-Eleven and Musa parted ways in 2014. But Musa isn’t
First it was cats, then it was rats. Now it’s raccoons. People will dine with anything. A cafe in South Korea is attracting customers with a set of unusual residents – three raccoons, a capybara, and a corgi with identity issues. Han Song Hee, owner of the Blind Alley cafe in Seoul, said that the restaurant was a normal cafe until she purchased it about two years ago
If we refer to full-loaded bagels as “everything” bagels, why don’t we refer to plain bagels as “nothing” bagels? Page 114
and started bringing her baby raccoons, Cong and Milk, to work. Song Hee bought Cong from a breeder and rescued Milk from a fur trader. The brood expanded when she rescued a capybara – one of the world’s largest rodents – from a zoo that went out of business. She has since acquired another raccoon, Shot, and a corgi. The dog, named Cookie, has lived for so long amongst raccoons that it thinks it’s a raccoon – and no longer a canine. Song Hee says that the animals are kept in a separate room to keep them away from customers’ food. With all those animals in there, is there any room for humans?
given preference. The group received some interested queries for the position, although Craigslist took down the post eventually. “His name is Jerry but he said we can call him Dave or Bill,” Anderson said. “There was one guy Stan who sent us a message but then he stopped replying.” Doesn’t sound like a true dad type.
Ice Cream for Biden
Seeking: Dad for BBQ
What’s a barbecue for Father’s Day without a father? A group of ingenious guys recently put up a Craigslist ad seeking a “generic father figure” to attend their Father’s Day weekend barbecue. “While most of us know how to operate a grill, none of us are prepared to fill the role of ‘BBQ Dad.’ That being said, we are in need of a generic father figure from 4 p.m. until about 8 p.m. (though you may stay the full duration of the party),” Dane Anderson and his roommates posted. What does a real dad have to do? “Duties include: Grilling hamburgers and hot dogs (whilst drinking beer); Bringing your own grill (though this is subject to change, we will provide all of the meat); Refer to all attendees as ‘Big Guy,’ ‘Chief,’ ‘Sport,’ ‘Champ,’ etc. (while drinking beer); Talk about dad things like lawnmowers, building your own deck, Jimmy Buffet, etc. Funny anecdotes are highly encouraged. All whilst drinking beer.” Thinking of the position? Make sure you have the “desired experience: A minimum of 18 years’ experience as a father; a minimum of 10 years grilling experience; an appreciation of a nice, cold beer on a hot summer day.” Oh, and if your name is Bill, Randy or Dave your application will be
Did you know that former Vice President Joe Biden loves ice cream? One time he started a speech by saying, “My name is Joe Biden, and I love ice cream.” The VP even appeared on “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon and enjoyed an ice cream cone with the host. He loves it so much that a new flavor will soon be named after him. When news got out that Biden was the guest speaker at Cornell’s graduation this year, a student named Molly Mandel, who previously worked at the Cornell Dairy Processing Plant, decided to make Biden feel a little extra welcome by naming an ice cream after him. She found out that Biden’s favorite flavor is chocolate chip, and a Facebook page was then made called “Joe Biden eats Cornell Dairy ice cream,” where more than 3,000 people were intrigued by the idea. As a result, Cornell Dairy decided to make it happen and the process of making Biden’s unique ice cream began. What will the Biden flavor be named? There were 150 choices initially, which were then narrowed down to five. Which of these sound the most delectable? Biden’s Chocolate Bites, Bits n’ Biden, Not Your Average Joe’s Chocolate Chip; and Uncle Joe’s Chocolate Chip, and Big Red, White & Biden. You know, as long as it’s cold, sweet, and delicious, I don’t really care what it’s called.
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Around the
Community Yeshiva Gedolah Ateres Yaakov Annual Breakfast: A Growing Makom Torah in our Community
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here is a makom Torah growing in the heart of the Lawrence/Cedarhurst community that provides a serious, yet warm environment for post-high school bnei Torah aspiring to continue their growth and development in Torah and Yiras Shomayim. Yeshiva Gedolah Ateres Yaakov successfully encourages each talmid to advance in all facets of Torah learning, while building lasting relationships with caring and dedicated rabbeim and mentors. The community is invited to learn more about this wonderful institution at the Yeshiva’s annual breakfast this Sunday, June 11 at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Nossi Feiner, 243 Juniper Circle East, Lawrence, at 9:30am. At the Yeshiva Gedolah, talmidim learn from a faculty of accomplished talmidei chachamim. At the Yeshiva’s helm is Rabbi Meir Braunstein, shlita, a close talmid of Rabbi Yosef Elefant, one of the famed Mir Roshei Yeshiva. Rabbi Braunstein
has tremendous experience guiding talmidim as a rebbe in Yeshiva Aderes Hatorah for over five years. He is also the Rav of the Agudath Israel of Long Island, bringing vibrancy and growth to the chashuvah kehilla. The Yeshiva Gedolah and its dedicated rabbeim are guided by the Menahel, Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, Ph.D. Under his and Rabbi Braunstein’s guidance, the Yeshiva strives to ensure that their talmidim become well-rounded bnei Torah who are also able to meet the challenges of today’s society. The Yeshiva Gedolah is more than bochurim learning in a lively bais medrash. The bochurim benefit from Shabbatons, in-shabbosim, BBQ’s, and leibidik mishmars. These add to the geshmak of the yeshiva and are beneficial to every bochur’s individual growth. Being located on the Ateres Yaakov campus allows the Yeshiva Gedolah bochurim to benefit from its beautiful Bais Medrash, athletic facilities, food service, and convenient college
programs. Dovid, a talmid at the Yeshiva, expressed, “After leaving Eretz Yisroel, I was looking for a yeshiva were I could connect to a Rebbe. The Rosh Yeshiva and my Rebbe at Ateres Yaakov care so much about every facet of my life and my progress, and they are there for me whenever I need them. Whether it’s to discuss learning, dating, or just to chap a schmooze, I have someone listening with open ears and a caring heart.” The Yeshiva Gedolah provides another unique opportunity to its bochurim: a chance to teach and mentor Mesivta talmidim. This opportunity allows the Yeshiva Gedolah bochurim to hone their own learning skill, while having a long lasting impact on younger peers. In turn, the Mesivta talmidim see that they can continue their learning at the highest levels, even as they move on with their education and professional goals. The post-Mesivta and post-Eretz Yisroel years are a critical time of
transition. They are a time when bochurim make important decisions about their path in life and look to solidify their prior gains while planning their way forward. The Yeshiva Gedolah is designed to provide all of the support and resources young men need to excel and grow during these crucial years. Ateres Yaakov is steadfast in its mission of providing a high level of instruction and personal attention that provides continuity to a bochur’s Mesivta and Eretz Yisroel yeshiva experiences. The Yeshiva never turns any bochur away for fiscal reasons and provides significant financial aid to qualifying families. The Yeshiva needs the support of the entire community to ensure the success of this wonderful institution. Please join in the community in supporting this wonderful makom Torah at the Yeshiva’s third annual breakfast this Sunday, June 11 at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Nossi Feiner, 243 Juniper Cirlce East, Lawrence, at 9:30am.
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Around the Community
Massive Community-wide Carnival in Queens PHOTO CREDIT: DENNIS SHORE
Presented by: CHAZAQ and QJCC Sponsored by: Councilman Rory Lancman
The community enjoyed “Twins from France” entertainment, moon bounces, face paint, balloons, fun food and more
Shalom Task Force, Inc. Named One of America’s Top 50 Innovative Jewish Organizations
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halom Task Force, Inc. has been named one of North America’s top 50 innovative Jewish organizations in the 12th annual Slingshot Guide. The Guide has become a go-to resource for volunteers, activists and donors looking for new opportunities and projects that, through their innovative nature, will ensure the Jewish community remains relevant and thriving. Slingshot 2017 was released on June 6, 2017. Shalom Task Force was selected from among hundreds of finalists re-
viewed by nearly 100 professionals with expertise in grant-making and Jewish communal life. The Guide states: “Shalom Task Force’s education programs, which have reached 20,000 young adults in the U.S. and Israel, are giving the next generation of Orthodox men and women the tools and knowledge they need to prevent abusive relationships, along with safe spaces where they can talk freely and openly about this once-taboo topic.” Organizations included in this
year’s Guide were evaluated on their innovative approach, the impact they have in their work, the leadership they have in their sector, and their effectiveness at achieving results. Shalom Task Force is proud to be among the 50 organizations honored for meeting those standards. The organizations included in the Guide are driving the future of Jewish life and engagement by motivating new audiences to participate in their work and responding to the needs of individuals and communities – both
within and beyond the Jewish community – as never before. “Shalom Task Force is proud to once again be selected for inclusion in the Slingshot Guide. We are honored to be part of the amazing community of innovative organizations that are creating positive change in the Jewish world. STF continues to be at the forefront of Jewish agencies working to prevent domestic abuse and provide critical services to survivors,” said Esther Williams, Board President.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Around the Community
State Senator Leroy Comrie (D-Queens Village) recently took a tour of Yeshiva Sha’arei Zion in Forest Hills, which primarily serves the Bukharian community in Queens
Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato Tours Bnos Bais Yaakov
O
n Thursday, May 25, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Far Rockaway) toured Bnos Bais Yaakov, an established and well-respected yeshiva for girls in Far Rockaway. Bnos Bais Yaakov serves girls from nursery school through twelfth grade. “Bnos Bais Yaakov is known far and wide an educational institution of the highest caliber and after meeting their students and staff, it’s no wonder,” said Pheffer Amato. “Students consistently progress to higher learning, and go on to serve as professionals in many fields, as well as becoming leaders in their communities. “It was my honor to host a delegation of these energetic and clearly driven girls and their teachers a month ago in Albany,” Pheffer Amato continued. “Their questions were amazing, and I have no doubt lead-
ership is in their future. BBY (as we call it around here) employs over 230 professionals, the school’s programs are diverse, and they have a fantastic Resource Center, which provides academic and developmental support to ensure that all students receive the help needed to achieve, as well as mental health and early-intervention services. “I want to extend my warmest thanks for the invitation to the entire administration, especially Rabbis Blumenkrantz and Schwartz, and to wish a wonderful year and future success on the students of BBY,” she continued. “We come from a special corner of the world, and that’s thanks in no small part to the culture of service and leadership instilled by the yeshiva and by the wonderful people who work there.”
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Annual MAY Grand Siyum
L
ast Tuesday evening, Mesivta Ateres Yaakov held its annual Grand Siyum celebrating the nearly 30% pf the student body who completed a masechta of Shas or a seder Mishnayos. These 53 talmidim, who completed 60 masechtos and sedarim of Mishnayos over the course of the school year, were joined by more
than 150 parents, grandparents and relatives and the MAY rabbeim, who came to celebrate this outstanding achievement. After a catered buffet dinner, Rabbi Yaffe opened the evening commenting on the tremendous pride the Mesivta has in these talmidim. Rabbi Yaffe focused on the idea that when
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learning a masechta, one must be sure that not only does he travel through the masechta, but that the masechta travel through him. Listing each boy and “his masechtos” by name, he added that the Torah that the talmidim in the Mesivta learn is Toras emes and Toras chaim, not simply an intellectual pursuit. Rabbi Yaffe then introduced senior Moshe Goodstein, who completed Masechtas Sotah, to deliver divrei Torah to the assembled crowd. Moshe spoke about the commitment of learning and how true limud haTorah is not a “part-time venture” rather a constant and consistent way of life. The guest speaker for the event was Rabbi Elysha Sandler, former 12th grade rebbe at the Mesivta, Mashgiach Ruchani of Yeshivas Sh’or Yoshuv and Rav of Kehillas Bais Yisroel in Far Rockaway. Rabbi Sandler spoke about the constant dedication, commitment and diligence necessary to be mesayim a masechta, complimenting the talmidim and praising them for having the chashivus haTorah that they
exhibited. Led by senior Moshe Pifko, the 60 mesaymim then recited the Hadran together! Each talmid was given two gifts from the Yeshiva, a monetary incentive award and a choshuveh sefer. Particularly noteworthy were the 25 senior talmidim who participated in the popular V’ha’arev Nah program and completed either Masechtas Sotah or Ta’anis, and 11th grader Daniel Trapunsky who completed Masechtos Baba Kama and Brachos and Shas Mishnayos! The Mesivta thanks Assistant Menahel Rabbi Yossi Bennett for organizing the event. Rabbi Bennett commented, “We are so impressed and inspired by the amount of learning accomplished this z’man. In preparation for kabbalas haTorah, we were so fortunate to be able to celebrate this achievement with our talmidim and their families.” The evening closed with leibidik dancing in joyous celebration of Torah.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Yedidya Aharon Sotah Duvi Baron Sotah Moshe Bistritzky Ta’anis Shmuel Brier Ta’anis Chaim Bugayer Megilah Yosef Burg Sotah Rafi Calderon Rosh Hashana Aharon Cohen Megilah Dovie Dreyfuss Sotah Yehoshua Feierman Megilah
Joseph Fink Seder Nezikin Seder Nashim
Shmaryahu Friedman Rosh Hashana Chaim Friedman Rosh Hashana Dovie Frisch Megilah Mayer Geller Ta’anis Shmuel Gladstone Sotah | Makos Moshe Goodstein Sotah Eliyahu Gross Rosh Hashana
Yudi Gross Rosh Hashana Seder Nashim Daniel Grunstein Sotah Seder Zera’im
Dov Herschberg Megilah | Chagigah
Eliyahu Miller Seder Zera’im
Dovid Schiffer Ta’anis
Benjamin Kopolovitz Rosh Hashana
Menachem Miller Ta’anis
Jonah Schoenfeld Sotah
Aharon Koschitzki Ta’anis
Shmuel Muchnik Ta’anis
Yosef Silver Rosh Hashana
Chaim Krengel Rosh Hashana
Yonatan Nisanov Brachos
Tzvi Silverstein Sotah | Rosh Hashana
Naftali Kunstler Brachos
Pinny Peretz Ta’anis | Makos
Yehoshua Sinensky Makos
Elimelech Kunstler Brachos
Moshe Pifko Sotah
Aryeh Singer Megilah
Pinchas Lipsky Megilah
Daniel Rand Megilah
Yoni Sokel Ta’anis
Yehuda Malek Sotah
Elimelech Rekant Sotah
Daniel Trapunsky Brachos | Baba Kama
Shmuel Maltz Sotah
Jonathan Rogoff Megilah
Gavriel Waldman Megilah
Tzvi Messinger Ta’anis
Natan Samson Sotah
Yossi Weiss Rosh Hashana
Zev Meth Ta’anis
Meir Schechter Megilah
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Siach Yitzchok Sixth Grade Heads to Court
O
n Tuesday, May 23, Rabbi Yosef Heimlich took his sixth grade class on an exciting and informative trip to both the Brooklyn Federal and State Courthouses. The trip was organized and led by The Honorable Simcha Dunn, a judge and Siach Yitzchok parent. He was able to coordinate that the students met with The Honorable Leon Ruchelsman, a veteran Federal judge. He explained to the boys the setup of a courthouse as well as some of the workings of a court case. Students toured both the Federal and State Courthouses as well as observed part of an actual trial. The experiential learning will surely impart
much valuable knowledge regarding our legal system. The Yeshiva also appreciates the efforts of Mr. Ira Plotkin, a Siach Yitzchok grandparent, who chaperoned on this trip.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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! y a d s e This Tu Deadline:
d A d e d n e t x S E o b b a h MoTzei S
Double Chai TribuTe
Dinner 36
Celebrating our annual dinner
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
h o n o r i n g
Mr. & Mrs. Yoni Kutner G u e s t s
o f
th
י"ט סיון תשע"ז
H o n o r
The sands aTlanTic Beach
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1 3 9 5 B e e c h St r e e t AtlAntic BeAch nY 11509
RecepTion 6:45 dinneR 7:30
Pa r e n ts o f t H e Y e a r
Dinner Chairmen
Rabbi Yehudah Orlansky
YitzY halpern ephraim Kutner
alumnus of tHe Year
Journal Chairmen
eli Kutner Yisroel Weingot
לז"נ אביו רפאל משה ע"ה בן הרב ישראל נ"י
siachyitzchok.org/dinner
F o R d i n n e R R e s e RvaT i o n s o R To p l a c e a n a d p l e a s e c o n Ta c T: emAil
dinner@siachyitzchok.org
Phone
718-327-6247
fAx
718-471-0925
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
speci
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Welcome !
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Around the Community PHOTO CREDIT: IVAN NORMAN
Yeshiva of Far Rockaway Annual Hasmada Program grand raffle drawing was held on Monday, erev Shavous
Getting Creative with Chessed at Ella’s Bat Mitzvah By M. Lowinger
W
hen Ella Morgenstern was planning her recent bat mitzvah, she knew she wanted the celebration to include a special activity that would benefit others. But she also wanted her friends
and family to enjoy the simcha and have fun. So she brainstormed with her parents to decide on the perfect project. In the end, she chose to create inspirational notebooks that were fun to make and would eventually be shared with the girls of Project Extreme.
Project Extreme is a non-profit organization that provides innovative and personalized services for teens at risk and their families. Through a variety of long and short term programs, they help these teens overcome their challenges by providing life skills training, social support networks, and professional counseling – all in a safe and healthy environment. A full eighty percent of teens who have completed Project Extreme’s Adventure program have made positive adjustments at school and with their families. The organization’s success is widely recognized in the community. Camp Extreme for Girls is one of Project Extreme’s flagship programs. A summer adventure program in Minnesota, it includes horseback riding, mountain biking, ropes courses and visits to amusement parks. The goal, says Director Rabbi AY Weinberg, is to help at-risk teens overcome destructive patterns and gain self confidence through challenging activities. “When I heard about Project Extreme,” says Ella, “I felt really moved. My dad told me about it and it seemed amazing!” Ella’s father, Rabbi Jonathan Morgenstern, has been a longtime supporter of Project Extreme. He and his wife, Jordana, and his kehillah at the Young Israel of Scarsdale have hosted several Shabbbatons in their community. Ella and her friends decorated notebooks with artistic pictures and inspirational quotes that they clipped from magazines. “We all enjoyed it,” says Ella. “And the notebooks are really pretty.” Best of all, they will
be donated to the girls of Camp Extreme who will use them as journals in their therapy sessions. “They will be keeping track of their thoughts and experiences throughout the summer,” says Evie Hoffman, Director of Special Events at Camp Extreme. It was a memorable bat mitzvah celebration, to be sure. The girls challenged themselves to create notebooks that were especially beautiful, knowing that they would go to good use in just a few short weeks. As for Ella, she is proud to have had the opportunity to choose this important project for her special day. She also recommends this activity to others. “It’s fun and creative,” she says, “and it’s a great mitzvah! You are helping others while at the same time you are having an awesome time!” That’s a combination that’s hard to beat. For more information about Project Extreme Special Events, call 516612-3920.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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Around the Community PHOTO CREDIT: MAXINE LIPSHITZ
The Entire YCQ Celebrated Yom Yerushalyim – with Over 1,100 Participants
I
n celebration of the 50 year anniversary of the reunification of Yerushalyim and the establishment of Israeli control over the Old City in the aftermath of the June 1967 Six Day War, the Yeshiva of Central Queens invited the entire student body and all staff members to gather together in the yard for joint Hallel. With over 1,100 people, Rabbi Ophie Nat led Hallel with musical accompaniment by Mrs. Tali Spector on keyboard. Following the davening, the entire body stood proud as Rabbi Moshe Hamel, Rabbi Michael Ribalt and Mr. Yosef Newcomb on guitar led everyone in a powerful Hatikvah followed by songs praising Yerushalayim. Sarah Leah Sullivan, grade 3, said, “It was very nice that everyone was davening together. It made me feel like I was closer to Israel.” In Israel, Yom Yerushalayim is celebrated every year on 28th of Iyar, and in 1998 Yom Yerushalayim was declared a national holiday. In Jewish communities around the world, and right here in our own backyard, Jews stood with pride honoring the
land that Hashem has given to us, as well as all those who stood up against enormous odds to fight for what belongs to the Jewish people. Ariel Fatir, grade 8, said, “It was one of the best experiences I ever had at YCQ. It was a breathtaking. Rabbi Nat’s singing was beautiful.” Following the davening, the music continued with dancing and celebration in the yard. As part of YCQ’s mission to instill an understanding of medinat Yisroel, our Jewish heritage and ahavat Yisroel, Rabbi Mark Landsman, principal at YCQ, planned this event to show the world that we will not back down to our enemies. The success of the event showed the students how important it is to have pride in their Jewish heritage, the land of Israel, and in themselves as members of klal Yisroel. Morah Chayala Lahijani said that
this program was “very inspirational. When I was growing up, my school didn’t do anything like that.” The voices of all the students, staff and community members who came to participate in this event became one strong confident voice. Rebecca Sisser, grade 3, said, “It reminded me of when I was in Jerusalem when everyone at the Kotel was davening together.” Unified programs like this play a role in creating the strength of character needed for children to grow up with a sense of responsibility towards their homeland, their families and other members of the community. Hannah Nisanov, 8, said, “The program made me feel so good inside myself because I was davening and singing with my friends and the whole school. I espe-
cially loved when we sang Yerushalayim Shel Zahav together; it was beautiful.” This also offered the opportunity to show hakarat hatov to all of the men and women who fought, often giving their lives so that the Jewish people can return to Jerusalem and other holy places such as the Har Habayit, the Kotel, Kever Rachel, and Ma’arat Hamachpela in Chevron. Ariel Fatir, grade 8, said it was one of the best experiences he ever had at YCQ. “It was a breathtaking experience. Rabbi Nat’s singing was beautiful.” Fifth grader Eitan Goldberg summed it up perfectly, “I thought it was an excellent program and the davening with everyone’s voices together was inspiring and had a lot of kavana.”
Shulamith Students and their Special Zechut
Stylists from Quorum with all of the student donors
O
n Thursday morning, May 25, a group of Shulamith students excitedly entered the doors of Quorum, a salon on Central Avenue. While it’s not unusual for girls to have their hair done before yom tov, these eight exceptional young ladies were not just cutting their hair; they were lopping off ten or more inches of their glorious locks
to donate to Zichron Menachem, an organization in Israel that provides support for cancer victims and their families. Anthony, Davy, and the stylists at Quorum provided their services for free. They were each exceptionally sensitive, patient, and generous with their time and professional skills, which made it possible for the intrep-
Morah Nava Eisenberg, Elisheva Spirgel, Michal Lipsky, Daniella Leviyev, Tehila Oami, Leora Spirgel, and Lana Bahn
id young ladies to go through with their plans of donating their hair to make wigs for children who have lost their own hair to cancer treatments. The stylists made sure that each donor felt beautiful and completely happy with her “new look.” The incredible eight were third grader Lana Bahn, fifth grader Leora Spirgel, seventh graders Tehila Oami,
Daniella Leviyev, Michal Lipsky, and Elisheva Spirgel, and alumni Chelli Katz and Rivki Katz. Also donating her hair was Judaic Studies teacher Morah Nava Eisenberg. We are proud and inspired by these gallant young ladies, who gave of themselves to help others!
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community Rambam Mesivta at the Celebrate Israel Parade
Shulamith School for Girls at the Celebrate Israel Parade
Stella K. Abraham High School for Girls at the Celebrate Israel Parade
Yachad at the Celebrate Israel Parade
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Around the Community Over 650 YCQ students, parents and staff marched together to show solidarity with Israel in the 2017 Celebrate Israel Parade
HANC 609 students and families at the Celebrate Israel Parade
Students at HAFTR at the Celebrate Israel Parade
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
An Action-Packed Week at Yeshiva Har Torah
T
his past week at Yeshiva Har Torah was filled with tremendous ruach and fun. On Friday the morot played a spirited basketball
game against the talmidot, and the rebbeim played a gritty hockey game against the talmidim. The games were part of a fundraiser for Od Yo-
sef Chai in which the students raised over $4,000. On Sunday, students and teachers boarded buses to show support to Medinat Yisrael in the annual
Celebrate Israel Parade. Yeshiva Har Torah honored the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem with the theme “Jerusalem unites us all.”
A Whirlwind Week at HANC 609
T
he students at HANC’s Samuel and Elizabeth Bass Golding’s Elementary School in West Hempstead have participated in a myriad of activities over the past two weeks. The students in Mrs. Lehmann’s third grade class were thrilled to present their wax museum, which was a culmination of a research project on a famous person whom they wanted to portray in the museum. The children chose inventors, explorers, world leaders, sports stars, authors and scientists. Some of the many characters included Albert Einstein,
the accomplishments of that famous personality. On the day of the event, the children came to school dressed up as their famous person, and the lunchroom was transformed into a wax museum of historical figures who spanned the course of time. The children enjoyed sharing all that they had learned with their families and friends when the characters were brought to life. In a video presentation, each student expressed what their character’s wish would be for the world today. It was truly an amazing event for the students and visitors alike.
Rachael Ray, Golda Meir, Pocahontas, Ben Franklin, Steve Jobs, and Sally Ride. After completing extensive research about the person they wanted to portray, the students created wonderful poster boards that reflected
On Wednesday, May 24, the entire school dressed in blue and white to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Yerushalayim. The Yom Yerushalayim activities included an assembly in which the children watched a
video of the events leading to the re-unification of Yerushalayim, and a delightful puppet show for the kindergarten through second grade students by the Small Wonder Puppet Theater. During the day, all of the children participated in a Chinese Auction to benefit Ateres Zvi, an organization in Israel which cares for the poor, and Lev LaChayal, which provides a supportive Yeshiva environment for religious students who choose to serve in the IDF and serves as a “homebase” for students preparing for the IDF. The children were very excited to be a part of the mitzvah of Tzedakah and to win great prizes. The students in grades 3-6 were also able to experience the Gibber Exhibit, Jerusalem Re-united, comprised of beautiful original artwork, historical video footage and other visual media. The special day concluded with a wonderful HANC 609 choir concert with Rabbi Mordechai Shapiro at the Young Israel of West
Hempstead. The excitement continued at the Fifth Grade State Extravaganza. During the course of the past few months, each student researched many aspects of their state’s history, agriculture, industry, tourist attractions and culinary dishes. They wrote books about their states, created state product maps, and tri-fold travel brochure boards that they designed. The students came to the extravaganza dressed in costumes that represented the residents of their state. The entire room was decorated with red, white and blue, and the extravaganza showcased all of the knowledge that the children gained as a result of their research. The children sang “G-d Bless the USA” by Lee Greenwood and viewed the PowerPoint presentations that the class created. During the course of the event, the children feasted on foods that represented the culinary specialties from different regions of the country. The students
tasted sushi that was flown in from the Pacific Northwest, New York hotdogs, barbecued beef from Kansas City, chicken from Arkansas, corn from the Midwest, potatoes from Idaho, and ice pops to remind them of the frigid conditions in Alaska. The extravaganza was led by the fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Karen Spitalnik, with assistance from Rabbi Elie Bashevkin. The celebration continued on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, when HANC 609 joined all of the other divisions of the HANC schools in a joyful march in the Celebrate Israel Parade. Despite the drizzling weather, the students danced and marched with tremendous spirit and enthusiasm. Following the parade, the HANC contingent enjoyed a delicious barbecue, complete with activities that included musical entertainment, face painting, Israeli flag making, decorate your own cookie, etc. It was the perfect end to a truly enjoyable day.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Introducing
E V I T C EFFE P U O R G young adu & s t n e c s le o f ad For parents o
lts
Sharpen parenting skills and acquire guidance from professionals Receive input and enjoy support from parents in your situation When: Mondays from 8:00-9:30pm Where: Madraigos 936 Broadway, Woodmere Start date: Monday June 12th For more information or to RSVP, please contact Eli Perlman, LCSW, Clinical Director of Madraigos eperlman@madraigos.org | 516-371-3250 ext. 111 936 Broadway, Woodmere, New York 11598 | P: 516.371.3250 F: 516.612.4515 | www.madraigos.org
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Around the Community
Teach NYS Brings Leader John Flanagan to HAFTR
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each NYS, a project of the Orthodox Union, brought New York Majority Leader John Flanagan to the Hebrew Academy of Five Towns and Rockaway on Friday, June 2 to thank him for his tireless support for nonpublic school education. Leader Flanagan was a driving force in the New York State Senate in support of the historic STEM program, which begins to reimburse nonpublic schools for math and science teachers. In total, the New York legislature and Gov. Cuomo provided nearly $300 million for New York nonpublic schools in this year’s budget in late April at the urging of Teach NYS. Leader Flanagan also engaged the fifth to eight grade students in a model legislative session to teach them about how state government works.
“Our primary obligation in the state of New York is public and nonpublic education,” Leader Flanagan said. “As a father of three children, I care very deeply about the quality, the opportunity, and the access for all kids of all kinds of different faiths. I’m so proud of the work we did in the legislature this year to provide funding for nonpublic schools like HAFTR, including the historic STEM program to help schools hire quality math and science teachers. “We still have a lot of work to do to eliminate the disparity in funding for nonpublic schools, but we are making so much progress because of the support of organizations like Teach NYS and the teachers, parents, and students on the ground who fight for the education their community de-
serves.” “We are so grateful for Leader Flanagan’s time and support for nonpublic schools, including Jewish
day schools and yeshivas,” said Jake Adler, director of government affairs for Teach NYS. “Leader Flanagan has been a true friend to the non-
public school community since day one, and we would not have been successful in Albany without his tireless support.”
Can You Swim with the Sharks?
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hulamith High School students have been tinkering, coding, and creating in their engineering class all year. On Wednesday, May 24, students had the opportunity to pitch their innovative creations in SHS Shark Tank. The Shark Tank program speaks to the heart of Shulamith High School’s mission. G-d made each individual in His image and challenged each individual to leave their unique mark on this world. We are all born makers. We ideate, innovate, and dare to stretch our limits. If we know that, when – not if – we fall, we stand up
and rise again. As a student centered school it is programs like Shark Tank that challenge the students to stretch out of their comfort zone, think quickly and critically, and strive for excellence and purpose. The lineup of inventions included The Fingerprint ID attendance: a fingerprint machine that keeps track of attendance; The Medicine Cabinet: a pressure sensor controlled pill box that alerts doctors and nurses when patients take their medications; The SafeDrive: a phone case that prevents texting and driving; Fires Be Gone: an automatic heat-sensing
home fire extinguisher; The Anatobot: a robot used to minimize the risk of invasive surgeries using virtual reality; You Chop: an automatic chopping knife catering to those who suffer from arthritis; and The Smart Light: an automatic light switch. The students pitched their product ideas, along with their business plans, logos, and price points, to an audience of “Sharks” – professionals in fields related to business and technology – as well as parents and fellow students. Questions from the Sharks and the audience forced the students to think on their feet, and
they handled the challenge with poise and professionalism. Thank you to the Sharks – Toby Moscovits, Yossi Sharf, Adam Jerozolim, and Moshe Oratz – for taking time out of their busy schedules to give the students the invaluable opportunity to learn from their real world experience. Their wide range of expertise – from venture capital and product design, to real estate and development and mechanical engineering – challenged our students to think about their products from all angles.
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and the faculty members who mentored them. “It’s been four years since we began our pre-engineering course, complementing our STEM program,” commented Assistant General Studies Principal Rabbi Yossi Bennett. “This year the projects were once again extremely impressive and very inventive. We really have to thank CIJE, their entire staff and, particularly, our CIJE liaison, Mrs. Judy Leibowitz, for their continued support of this program.”
We parents cannot give true independence to our kids. But we can help set them on the path so our children live it on their own.
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s part of their progressive STEM Program, Mesivta Ateres Yaakov fielded multiple teams from the ninth and tenth grades to present projects at the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education Fair held this year at the New York Hilton in Manhattan. Projects included an automated greenhouse, a gas leak detector, a Breathalyzer lockbox to prevent drunk driving, and a device that recycles energy from electronic devices. The Mesivta is incredibly proud of the students who worked tirelessly on their projects
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MAY Participates in CIJE Engineering Fair
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dar is supposed to be a month of simcha and joy. But on the 21st day of this month, we were experiencing much sadness and fear. Our sweet Shloimy had developed pneumonia and was already in the hospital for a few weeks. The doctors were baffled by his case, as everything they tried seemed to make little difference. We had seen no improvements and nothing was helping him to recover. My wife and I sat in the hospital on that day, Chaf Aleph Adar, and begged Hashem to send us a yeshua. What more could we do? How could we save our son? My wife mentioned that early in the morning, she had been reading a newspaper and saw a story about the Tehillim Kollel, this organization that offered Tefillos and bakashos for its members. We signed up right there and then, in the hospital hallway. The person who answered the phone and took down our information was so caring and kind, and really, a ray of hope in the middle of darkness. A week passed. Nothing. Our Shloimy was still fighting for his life. I called up Tehillim Kollel, completely broken, begging for their help. Tehillim Kollel has so many locations around the world- I chose to change my membership to the holy tzion of R’Shimon Bar Yochai, with the special Kollel Meron begging Hashem to help and heal my Shloimy, Erev Pesach, my Shloimy was released from the hospital! He came home, weak but healthy. Adar was the beginning of joy- that is when the miracle began!
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Planting at Young Israel of Oceanside
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he Young Israel of Oceanside is looking forward to a bountiful harvest this year thanks to its creative Youth Director, Daniel Stroock, and to the generosity of Dees’ Nursery of Oceanside. Last week, on Memorial Day, the children of the Young Israel of Oceanside gathered on the synagogue’s property to plant its first-ever Youth Vegetable and Herb
Garden. Mr. Stroock and Young Israel member and gardening enthusiast Benji Alper prepared the area surrounding the synagogue’s playground and gave each child their own plants to add to the garden. Each child put labels next to their plants so that they will be able to go back and watch their plants grow throughout the season. Dees’ Nursery of Oceanside truly lived
up to their wonderful reputation as a friendly and community-minded company by offering to sponsor the project, and they provided the organizers with a wide assortment of vegetable and herb plants with everything from your basic tomatoes and cucumbers to dill, parsley and edamame. Children from the synagogue have also volunteered to go back to the garden regu-
larly to make sure that the plants are flourishing and to keep the garden free of weeds. The Young Israel looks forward to using the produce of the garden to enhance the menu at synagogue events this summer. Many thanks to the organizers of this wonderful project and to Dees’ Nursery for their tremendous generosity.
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MAY’s Graduation Honorees Natan Samson Limudei Kodesh Valedictorian Whether it’s a complicated Gemara or a vexing equation, Natan Samson will find the right answer. He may be the rare National Merit Scholarship Finalist – in the top 1% of high school students nationwide – but Natan is much more than his intellect. He has a unique and distinctive personality, who is a tremendous asset to his peers in the Bais Medrash. He will stop at nothing to decipher a sugya, going to the greatest of lengths to arrive at the correct conclusion. Natan demonstrates remarkable leadership skills in and out of yeshiva, most notably as co-captain of the championship Torah Bowl team. He is graduating with a 98.76 overall cumulative GPA and a 1490 SAT score. He will be learning next year in Eretz Yisroel at Yeshivas Yishrei Lev.
Shmuel Maltz Limudei Chol Valedictorian Shmuel Maltz appears unassuming, but that demeanor belies his tremendous accomplishments at Mesivta Ateres Yaakov. At the top of all his classes in both Kodesh and Chol, he is also a seasoned ba’al tefillah and ba’al korei and the co-captain of the championship Torah Bowl team. Shmuli was one of only two students in MAY (and very few in the NY area) to achieve the coveted honor of becoming a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. Shmuli is graduating with a 99.03 overall cumulative GPA and a 1540 SAT score, assuring his very exclusive spot at Cooper Union next year. Tzvi Silverstein Limudei Kodesh Salutatorian From Gabbai RIshon and Yearbook editor-in-chief to true Ben Aliyah and emes-
Natan Samson
dikah ben Torah, Tzvi Silverstein’s attitude towards growing in both Torah and middos is truly an inspiration to others. His deep love for learning and his heart of gold uplifts everyone around him. Whether b’iyun or bekiyus, Tzvi is always available to offer a helping hand for anyone in need. Both in and out of the classroom, Tzvi serves as a role model to his peers and a model student to his rebbeim and teachers. There is no doubt that Tzvi will continue to grow in his avodas Hashem and reach amazing
Shmuel Maltz
Tzvi Silverstein
heights. Tzvi is graduating with a 98.25 limudei kodesh cumulative GPA. He will be learning next year in Eretz Yisroel at Yeshivas Yishrei Lev. Moshe Goodstein Limudei Chol Salutatorian Moshe Goodstein brings a lot of everything to the table, from his fiery top-ofshiur learning, to his role as editor-in-chief of the Ateres Yaakov Star school newspaper. A four-year member of the football team, Momo helped lead the team to two
Moshe Goodstein
straight championships as their top wide receiver bringing his truly unique leadership skills to each and every game. Momo is a tremendous force in the Bais Medrash and in shiur, pairing his top-level smarts with his impressive consistency and ability to work through all types of distractions. Momo truly has an unlimited sky-high ceiling. Moshe is graduating with a 97.55 general studies cumulative GPA. He will be learning next year in Eretz Yisroel at Yeshivas Toras Chaim.
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Touro Class of 2017 Celebrates Commencement
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ull of pride, hundreds of friends and family members celebrated their graduates at the 42nd Annual Commencement of Touro College. The ceremony took place on May 28, 2017, at the David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center. During the ceremony, guests heard speeches from the valedictorians of Touro’s Lander College of Arts and Sciences (LAS), Simcha Bordon and Rachel Tabi; valedictorian of Touro’s Lander College for Men (LCM), Steven “Lippy” Treitel; and valedictorian of Touro’s Lander College for Women (LCW), Meira Goldberg. They were among the 592 graduates receiving baccalaureate degrees, along with 129 graduates who received associate degrees, from LAS, LCM, LCW, Machon L’Parnasa/The Institute for Professional Studies and The School for Lifelong Education (SLE). LAS Men’s valedictorian Simcha Bordon spent five years at the exclusive Brisk Yeshiva in Israel before attending LAS. He will be attending the Albert Einstein College of Medicine next year. “Touro has guided me, encouraged me, and celebrated my successes every step of the way,” he said. LAS Women’s valedictorian Rachel Tabi is headed to PriceWaterhouseCoopers to begin her career as an actuary. She thanked her Touro
L-R: Dr. Robert Goldschmidt, Dean, Touro’s Lander College of Arts & Sciences in Brooklyn; Jason Dov Greenblatt, an Assistant to the President of the United States and Special Representative for International Negotiations; Dr. Alan Kadish, Touro’s President; and Rabbi Moshe Krupka, Touro’s Executive Vice President
professors “for teaching me how to think, how to understand and how to use my imagination.” Afterwards, the audience heard from keynote speaker Jason Dov Greenblatt, an Assistant to the President of the United States and Special Representative for International Negotiations. Greenblatt received an honorary Doctor of Laws from Touro College. After receiving his honorary degree, Greenblatt spoke about his own
remarkable history and the unlikely journey he, the son of a Holocaust survivor and a Hungarian refugee, took to the halls of the White House. After graduating from New York University’s Law School, Greenblatt worked as an associate at a law firm before launching a coffee company. After Starbucks began their expansion, Greenblatt returned to the field of law and was recruited by the Trump Organization and spent twenty years rising up the corporate
ladder until he became the Chief Legal Officer. “None of us can predict tomorrow’s twists and turns,” Greenblatt advised. “What I would like to impress upon each of you today is the importance of keeping an open mind, embracing new opportunities and maintaining the willingness to reinvent yourselves and the resilience to do so.” Rabbi Moshe Krupka, Touro’s executive vice president, called Greenblatt’s work an “ongoing kiddush Hashem, a sanctification of G-d’s name.” Speaking to Greenblatt, Rabbi Krupka said, “You serve as a role model for Jewish youth as you maintain your Jewish identity while maintaining professional excellence in a secular workplace. You are the embodiment of universal Jewish values of integrity and humility.” Touro College President Dr. Alan Kadish stated that Greenblatt’s life has shown the world the “Jewish values of honesty, humility, kindness and integrity. You show that Torah study and shmirat hamitzvot is not a challenge to success in one’s career but the foundation to what one creates and achieves,” said Dr. Kadish. He encouraged all of the graduates to aim high, “Each of you can make a difference to yourself, to your family, to klal Yisrael and the world,” he said.
Rabbi Paysach Krohn “Transports” Shevach Students to Eretz Yisrael in the Aftermath of the Six Day War
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n Wednesday, May 24, Shevach High School held its “End of the Year Banquet.” This is an annual tradition at which the students and staff join to celebrate the conclusion of another year of growth in learning, in middos tovos, and in chessed, combined with a review of all the exciting events the school G. O. had provided. As world Jewry is now celebrating fifty years since the culmination of the Six Day War, the Shevach students were privileged to be addressed at the banquet by the sought after speaker, Rabbi Paysach Krohn, who spoke about the significance of Yerushalayim. He shared many insights and stories, including a description of the
first time he and his wife, Mrs. Miriam Krohn, came to Eretz Yisroel after 1967. He described how moving it was to be in front of the Kosel HaMaaravi at night, and especially Hoshanah Rabbah night. His vivid depiction of his feelings at the time was transmitted to the girls in such a riveting manner, it enabled them to picture it vicariously. He stressed that even Moshe Rabbeinu never made it to Eretz Yisrael! How lucky we are to have that opportunity! We cannot and should not take it for granted. Mrs. Krohn, who is now the Associate Principal for limudei kodesh at Shevach, was spending her seminary year in Israel in 1967. Rabbi Krohn mentioned with pride that his wife
did not leave before the Six Day War, in spite of the fact that her parents were pressing her to fly back to the U.S. Rabbi Krohn posed the question of why we daven every day to return to Yerushalayim, if we have the Old City and the Kosel HaMaaravi in our possession already. He cited a fascinating Gemara that the Beis Hamikdash of the future will be as large as Yerushalayim of today and Yerushalayin will be as large as Israel is today. The reason for this is that every shul that was ever built will become a part of the third Beis Hamikdash. Chazal teach that this is what Dovid HaMelech meant when he said in Tehillim that the Jewish people will be united
as one. Rabbi Krohn closed with a quote from Rabbi Emanuel Feldman’s recently republished book, The 28th of Iyar. He wrote: “Just the utterance of the word ‘Yerushalayim’ is like a soft melody.” The Shevach students will iy”H be in Israel sometime over the coming years, as we all hope to be, and Rabbi Krohn gave them a vision of what they will feel and an appreciation of what Klal Yisrael has already experienced. The miracle of Eretz Yisroel was brought home, leaving the students uplifted, inspired, and looking forward to the day when we will see the final geulah, with the building of the third Bais Hamikdash, may it come speedily in our times!
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Yeshiva University High School for Girls Congratulates the Class of 2017
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ara Teitelman is the valedictorian of the Central Class of 2017. Sara has made her mark in Central with a reflective outlook on the world, an insatiable passion for learning, and a devotion to helping others. While at Central, she has been a member of our Model UN Team, Math Team, and Book Club; she has also dedicated many free hours to peer tutoring and visiting patients at the Cohen Children’s Hospital. After studying at Migdal Oz, Sara will attend the Stern College for Women S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program, where she intends to pursue a pre-med track. “Sara has consistently reflected a personal desire to understand, and always exudes both a calmness and an intense curiosity,” says Head of School CB Neugroschl. “Her devotion to exploring Torah and to
challenging herself in all her studies has a personal quality – it’s about being a thoughtful person who fully engages the world. Sara has a kindness to everyone is truly remarkable. We are so proud of all Sara has accomplished.” Sophia Baradarian is the Central salutatorian of the Class of 2017. Sophia is soft-spoken, articulate, and acutely aware of the world around her; she views her fellow students with a desire to see the good in everyone. During her time in Central, Sophia served as the captain of our College Bowl Team and the leader of the Central Historical Society, also participating on the Central Math Team and the Book Club. Sophia has distinguished herself with her desire to help others, exemplified by her brainchild, an organization called “Col Tov,” which
seeks to inform members of the Jewish community about maintaining GI health, and provides free colonoscopies and endoscopies to patients who cannot afford them on their own. Head of School CB Neugroschl praises Sophia’s exemplary qualities: “Sophia has demonstrated an extraordinary balance of a drive for learning that is paralleled by her unusual humility, kindness, and commitment to others. Sophia has pushed herself to achieve academically and to also apply what she’s learned to all areas of her life. We are so proud of Sophia’s accomplishments at Central and beyond.” Sophia plans to learn at MMY before pursuing a pre-med track at the Stern College for Women S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program. Tovah Blank is the Central Class of 2017’s recipient
Sara Teitelman
Sophia Baradarian
of the Keter Shem Tov award, chosen by her classmates to represent them based on her strength of character and middot tovot. During her time at Central, Tovah has proven to be a motivated student and a leader among her peers, serving as the captain of the Central Debate Team and editor of the yearbook. She has also participated in our ACE team, Model Congress team, and Book Club. A true baalat chessed, Tovah approaches her classmates with kindness and a sincere desire to help. “Tovah has the distinction of being chosen by her peers to represent the friendships, the kindness,
Tovah Blank
and the exceptional middot that make Central a special community,” says Head of School CB Neugroschl. “Tovah has an understated compassion that can change your mood, make you smile, and encourage you to see the glass half full. She has left an abiding smile on all of our faces, and we are grateful for the extra warmth that she so consistently shared with everyone. Tovah reminds us all to be proud of what to means to be part of the Central family!” Tovah will be continuing her studies at Shaalavim for Women and then at the Stern College for Women S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program.
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YU Honors 4 Five Towns Valedictorians at 2017 Commencement
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n Thursday, May 25, Yeshiva University’s Class of 2017 celebrated YU’s 86th Commencement along with friends and family in The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Ron Dermer, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, delivered the keynote address and received an honorary degree. In his speech to the graduates, Dermer wished them good luck on their personal journeys but also gave them a broader mission to follow. “To keep Judaism alive for many Jews, we must restore pride in Jewish values and Jewish ideas for a generation of Jews that knows little about either. That is why Yeshiva University is so important. And that is why each and every one of you is so important because this university has equipped you, like few others in our generation, to succeed in that mission.” Following Dermer’s keynote address, ten undergraduate valedictorians received special recognition for their outstanding academic achievements, among them four residents of the Five Towns: Yonatan Mehlman and Kayla Axelrod of Woodmere, New York, the Yeshiva College and Rebecca Ivry Department of Jewish Studies valedictorians, respectively; Jacob Klar of Lawrence, New York, a Sy Syms School of Business valedictorian; and Michael Levinson of Cedarhurst, New York, valedictorian of the Irving I. Stone Beit Midrash Program. For Axelrod, the day was especially meaningful for her family, as her parents and grandfather celebrated the 25th and 60th anniversaries of their own graduations, respectively. Her father, Rabbi Shalom Axelrod, delivered the invocation at the commencement ceremony. “This is a very special moment for us,” she said. These exceptional new alumni will now move on to careers and graduate studies that range from accounting and medicine to Jewish education and marketing. However, as they look back on their undergraduate years, they share a deep sense of appreciation for the personalized, high-quality education they received at YU. Mehlman sought to make the most of the many opportunities available to him at Yeshiva College, studying biology and public health, immersing
Left to right: Yeshiva University’s Class of 2017 Valedictorians Akiva Marder, Mickey Levinson, Jacob Klar, Shua Katz, Avigail Goldstein, Tova Goldstein, Erica Secemski and Kayla Axelrod. Not pictured: Maor Shoshana and Yonatan Mehlman
himself in Torah studies and also taking leadership roles in student clubs like Music Vs., which seeks to use music, song, and dance to create lasting relationships with seniors in residential facilities, and START! Science, a program geared towards inspiring a love of science in local underserved public school students. “Part of what makes YU special is that I didn’t have to sacrifice on anything; I was able to study Torah seriously, receive an excellent education, and participate in some really amazing clubs, all in an amazing environment with my peers who have become my best friends,” said Mehlman. “Just this past Friday serves as a good example – I woke up early to teach science with my peers in a local public school, spent several hours performing cancer biology research in a lab on campus, led a group of my peers to a local nursing home as part of Music VS., and then rounded the day out by traveling to Queens with my shiur for a shiur Shabbaton by our rebbe, Rav Rosensweig.” Klar, who will be attending YU’s masters in accounting program in the fall, enjoyed the close relationship he was able to develop with faculty at Sy Syms. “Professor Leibowitz has such a passion for the material, which helped to keep me engaged in accounting class, and he really cared for his students,” Klar said. “Recently, while I was no longer in his class and studying for the CPA exam, I came across some challenging material and he made time to explain a concept to me. Most importantly, Rabbi
Feldman had a tremendous impact on my YU experience. I was able to see his immense knowledge of all areas while he was my shiur rebbe for three semesters and my professor in Syms for two semesters.” Levinson hopes to make aliyah and pursue semicha on YU’s Israel campus. “Rabbi Eli Belizon, my morning seder rebbe, really took me under his wing and showed me the importance and love of Torah during my time at YU,” he said. “He guided me through everything. Amazing friends and teachers and the dual curriculum made YU a special experience for me.” Other Class of 2017 valedictorians include Akiva Marder, Isaac Breuer College of Hebraic Studies; Avigail Goldstein and Erica Secemski, Sy Syms School of Business; Tova Goldstein, Stern College for Women; Shua Katz, Yeshiva Program/Mazer School of Talmudic Studies; and Maor Shoshana, James Striar School of General Jewish Studies. Philanthropist and activist Tzili Charney was also awarded an honorary degree in recognition of her generosity to the University. A University Benefactor, she, along with her late husband Leon Charney ’60YC, has given generously to Yeshiva, including a recent commitment of $1 million to establish the Leon Charney Legacy Project, focused on expanding Israel studies and the arts, and donating the Leon H. Charney Collection to the YU Library Archives. President Joel praised Charney for her “love, loyalty, vigor, sophistication and unyielding
Jewish pride.” Quoting her husband, Charney told graduates to “examine the options you have available to you. Maintain a promise of peace. Make proper choices and bring about changes in your life while, at the same time, continuing to make the world a better place”” President Joel also bestowed the Presidential Medallion upon Rabbi Manfred Fulda, associate professor of Talmud and an educator at YU since 1959, for his service. “You are the ultimate rebbe, modeling the values of our Yeshiva, and serving as a guide for our talmidim [students], and so we celebrate all that you have accomplished thus far. As you once remarked, you are one of the only people left alive who received a bracha [blessing] from the Chofetz Chaim. Rabbi Fulda, you have been nothing but a bracha to our Yeshiva, and therefore it is my greatest pleasure to award you the Presidential Medallion.” The class of 1967 was also honored as they marked the 50th anniversary of their graduation. For President Joel, the ceremony was bittersweet, as it marked his final commencement as YU president. “My wonderful students – finally, I get to graduate with you,” he said. “We are gathered 5,000 strong to celebrate you and the Jewish future. Be G-d’s partner and help perfect the world.” His speech was followed by a touching video tribute to him and the presentation of a ceremonial mace in honor of his service. In making the presentation, Dr. Josh Joseph, senior vice president, noted that President Joel had conferred degrees on 28,655 students and that “the most fitting tribute for you, the most fulfilling benchmark of your success, will be their success. You empowered your students with a mandate to matter, you created an educational experience that fills us with integrity, you ennobled us and enabled us. Thank you.” In total, more than 1,700 students from Yeshiva College, Stern College for Women and Sy Syms School of Business, as well as graduate students in the fields of law, medicine, social work, education, Jewish studies and psychology, were awarded degrees from YU during its commencement season.
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HANC Class of 2017 Valedictorian and Salutatorians
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he Hebrew Academy of Nassau County is proud to announce the Class of 2017 valedictorian and salutatorians. HANC High School’s Menahel, Rabbi Shlomo Adelman, proudly remarked, “Rachel Canter, Michal Kaufman, and Eric Lenefsky embody the core values of our yeshiva. Each of them, in their own unique way, personifies excellence as scholars, leaders, and ba’alei middot. The HANC community is incredibly proud of these well-deserving honorees who excel in their academic and religious studies.” Valedictorian Rachel Canter is a series of delightful contradictions that combine to make a fantastic student and a wonderful human being. She is simultaneously brilliant and humble, sharp-witted and reserved, conscientious and a risk-taker. She is a leader who is not bossy, but rather leads by excellent example. Rachel is an intellectual in every sense of the word and elevates the level of discourse in every classroom that she enters. Rachel is an academic success because she seeks to improve her understanding of any topic that she gets her hands on. Rachel’s teachers have commented that she is one of the brightest, hardest-working students they have ever come across, and her insights are representative of a student well-beyond her years. Never limiting her intellectual interests to schoolwork, Rachel is also incredibly well-read. She is a voracious reader who consumes as many books as possible, completing an astounding 117 books in 2015 alone! Simply put, Rachel’s love of learning is infectious and makes those around her want to expand their minds as well. Rachel’s true love of learning translated directly into a stellar academic record. Always looking to challenge herself, Rachel took a full load of honors and Advanced Placement classes. Last year, Rachel was given our school’s prestigious Passion for Education award presented to the student who best exemplifies a genuine passion for learning. She is a member of the National Honor Society, serving as vice president in 11thgrade and co-president in the 12th grade. She is also an AP Scholar. Not only is Rachel outstanding in the academic arena, but she im-
Rachel Canter
Eric Lenefsky
presses you with her passion and commitment outside the classroom. Rachel is not only a member of a variety of clubs, but she has taken on leadership roles in nearly all of them. Most notably, Rachel is co-president of our school’s Student Senate. She is also a major player in not one, but three school publications! She is editor-in-chief of the HANC Herald, editor-in-chief of Midreshei HANC, and a contributor and editor of the HANC Happenings. Rachel is also a yearbook editor, the book club co-Chair, and a starting player on the College Bowl Team. Additionally, Rachel is a four-year volunteer for both the Jewish Elderly Committee and the Peer Tutoring Society. Rachel will be attending Brandeis University where she plans to study English. Salutatorian Michal Kaufman is an exemplary role model. She is a hard-working, respectful, motivated young lady who is passionate about learning and growing both in her general studies subjects as well as her limudei kodesh subjects. She is good-natured and an easygoing young woman who always has a smile for everyone and a helping hand to those in need. As one who wants to pursue a career in education, it is no surprise that Michal thrives when given the opportunity to teach others. In addition to being inducted into the National Honor Society and being named to the Honor Roll her entire high-school career, Michal was selected by the administration and faculty to receive a host of other awards. She was selected as the recipient of the Rensselaer Medal (for excelling in math and science), the inaugural Yeshiva University Torah Umadda Book Award, and was the recipient of the Ateret Shem Tov Award. This award is given to the student who
Michal Kaufman
“demonstrates distinguished character and a strong commitment to leading a life of high ethical and moral standards consistent with Torah ideals and values.” Michal embodies these characteristics and was the natural choice for this award. Although thriving in all areas of academics, Michal truly has a mind for science and mathematics. She achieved the highest AP grades and class averages in AP Calculus AB and AP Physics 1 as well as being named an AP Scholar. She is also an avid reader of fiction as well as Jewish history and philosophy. Michal’s extracurricular accomplishments demonstrate what an important role she plays in our institution. She has been a member of our undefeated Mathletes Team, is a four- year member and current head of our Girl’s Chorus, is captain of the Volley Team, is a contributor to Midreshei HANC, and is a member of Jewish Elderly, to name a few. Ultimately, Michal left her mark on HANC by taking charge and revitalizing our Bikur Cholim Committee. Under her direction and leadership, she transformed it into one of the most successful chessed committees in our school. Outside of HANC, Michal played a vital role in her community as Chapter President of the Plainview NCSY. She has also dedicated her summer breaks to meaningful programs, including NCSY GIVE (Girls Israel Volunteer Experience) and JOLT (Jewish Oversees Leadership Training). After a year studying in Israel at Michlalah, Michal will be attending the Stern College Honors Program at Yeshiva University where she plans to study math and education. Salutatorian Eric Lenefsky is smart, humble, kind, and mature. He is driven and hardworking, but also
takes the time to explore his intellectual curiosities. He is a born leader, yet takes the time to hear and digest the opinions of others. Eric is truly a mature and level-headed young man. Eric takes his Judaism very seriously. He is a member of the Bet Midrash program taking the most challenging limudei Kodesh courses, competes as Torah Bowl Captain, and leads his fellow students during davening as gabbai. Eric is also the recipient of our school’s Keter Shem Tov Award, presented to a student who demonstrates distinguished character and a strong commitment to leading a life of high ethical standards. Simultaneously, Eric is a young man of science and math, facts, and exact calculations. He is committed to a future in medicine, so Eric has taken the most difficult science and math courses that HANC has to offer. He not only succeeds in these courses, but leads class discussions and introduces new ideas. Eric is also the chairperson of the Pre-Medical Society, the chairman of the Annual Blood Drive, a Peer Drug Educator, a Mathlete, and a Science Olympiad competitor. Academically, Eric is nothing short of a superstar! Eric has taken an astounding nine AP classes and more than a dozen Honor’s classes. He has been on Honor Roll for four years and is a member of the National Honor Society (and was elected Co-President as a senior). He is also an AP Scholar with Honors and a University of Rochester Bausch + Lomb Honorary Science Award Recipient. On top of the above-mentioned activities and leadership roles, Eric is the co-president of the Student Senate. He is also the captain of the College Bowl Team, the Debate Team captain, a member of the school’s AIPAC Committee, a staff writer for Midreshei HANC, a member of Model UN, and a four-year volunteer for the Jewish Elderly Committee. In case this wasn’t enough, he is also a four-year athlete on the softball team. Following a year of learning at Hakotel in Israel, Eric will be attending the Honors Program at Yeshiva University.
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RNSP Bike and Device Etching
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n Sunday, June 4, the Rockaway Nassau Safety Patrol held its 2017 Bike and Electronic Device Etching Event in conjunction with the Annual Yeshiva Darchei Torah Bike-a-Thon. Reads Lane was teeming with over 1,000 young cyclists. NYPD Crime Prevention Officers from the 101st Precinct were delighted to have hundreds of more bikes and electronic devices within the command etched and registered. In the event that an etched bike or device is found after being lost and/or stolen, the serial number that is inconspicuously etched on the lost or stolen item will help return that item to its rightful owner. Each year, RNSP units and NYPD officers find lost or stolen bikes and electronic devices. In tens of such cases,
lost and stolen devices that were etched were therefore returned to the registered owners. Conversely, there have been many bikes and devices that were recovered from thieves that unfortunately were unable to be traced to its rightful owners. Etching itself is an act of crime prevention. Whereas it is difficult to charge thieves in possession of unetched bikes or devices, those who are caught to be unrightfully in possession of stolen property are able to be charged and eventually prosecuted for theft. Etching is proof of ownership. The RNSP is always thrilled to bring such safety and crime prevention events to the community in addition to all other ways they serve the community and improve the quality of life for those
who reside within. The RNSP is active 24/7. Should you ever need assistance related to public safety, a past crime, or a missing person, feel free to call the 24/7 Hotline at 516858-7300. Much thanks goes out to the commanding officer of the 101 Precinct, Captain Vincent Tavalaro, and to Community Affairs Officers, P.O. Kevin Campbell and P.O. Lynn Blanchette. Their work
helps the entire community to this end and in so many other ways. Akiva Klein from the FSSP (Flatbush Shomrim) always comes through for the RNSP, bringing the FSSP Mobile Command Center, which keeps the power going and provides all the tools necessary to keep the event functional and its participants safe. Holding free public service events such as this does indeed come at a great financial expense. It is only with the assistance of enormously generous sponsors who made this event possible. These sponsors include: Caring Professionals Inc.; Carlos & Gabby’s; Superior Collision; Lazer Marble & Granite; Precision Auto Body; Klein’s Ice Cream; Steven Auto Parts; JC Sewer & Drain Service; Mold Pro; I Know a Guy, Inc.; David’s Famous Pizza; All Giving Reality; Cho Sen Island; Siyata; Sleep Tight Bedding; Broadway Kitchens LTD
Bathtique; Coffee Bar; Traditions Eatery; EZRA Pharmacy; Mike’s Burgers; Hapina; Chateau de Vin; and 925 Sterling. Last but not least the community owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the members of the RNSP, who tirelessly and regularly give their time to help others in need. This event was one small service of many that are afforded to the community on a daily basis. RNSP members Shmueli Russel and Nussen Bornfreund worked tirelessly over the course of the past few months putting this event together and making it a success. Much thanks is due to the families of the RNSP members. These family members are equally selfless by allowing their spouse s and parents to do the work they do. An RNSP member is never able to be so effective without such support and allowance. The RNSP wishes the entire community a safe and pleasant summer.
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RZA Mega Yom Yerushalayim Celebration
By Rabbi Gideon Shloush
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he Religious Zionists of America led an effort that brought more than five hundred people from dozens of communities across the United States to participate in a four day mega Yom Yerushalayim celebration in Israel on occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Reunification of Jerusalem. The conference, which was organized by and run in partnership with World Mizrachi, attracted 1,200 people from across the globe and thousands more from Israel. The program included a live concert, presentations from leading rabbinic and political figures from both Israel and abroad, an uplifting Leil Yom Yerushalayim T’fillah in the Great Synagogue, an unprecedented and inspiring, unified Shacharit at the Kotel, tours of the Old City, and a trip to Chevron and Har HaZeitim. Dr. Ernest Agatstein, Co-President of the Religious Zionists of America, said, “I was impressed by the large turnout of men and women from across the United States who picked themselves up in the middle of a busy work week to attend with their city delegations often led by their shul rabbis. U.S. delegations included attendees from Los Angeles,
Chicago, Columbus, Highland Park, Englewood, Livingston and the Five Towns. These participants joined together with delegations from England, South Africa, Canada, Mexico and Australia in celebrating this historic milestone.” Rabbi Leonard Matanky, co-president of the RZA, joined from West Rogers Park, IL. He remarked, “The World Mizrachi mission was not only a huge success, it was an extraordinary kiddush Hashem, bringing together thousands of people from the four corners of the earth to celebrate G-d’s miracles and gift of Yerushalayim. To all who came and all who created this mission – we are so very grateful. And to anyone who missed this opportunity, I pray that they find opportunities to visit and bask in the glory of our eternal capital.” Rabbi Elazar Muskin, senior rabbi of the Young Israel of Century City in Los Angeles, CA, added, “While walking in Jerusalem a few days ago, as part of the Mizrachi Yom Yerushalayim program, a TV reporter for Israel TV Channel 2 stopped and asked if she could interview me. Wondering why we traveled halfway around the glob, and spent thousands of dollars for the trip, she asked me what motivated us to attend. I explained that
this was our way of saying thank you to G-d for giving us the great miracle of the Six Day War, and more generally the great miracle of the State of Israel. It was our way of saying thank you to G-d for the great miracle of the Soviet Aliyah which was inspired and was a direct outcome of the Six Day War. It was our way of saying thank you to G-d for the prosperity we enjoy today in Israel that was not even a dream in 1967.” Rabbi Shlomo Appel of Jamaica Estates, NY, remarked, “I was looking forward to being in Yerushalayim for this very special anniversary of the reunification of the city. The program put together by Mizrachi Olami, beginning with the concert in Binyenai Haumah, the lectures, tours and especially the tefillah at the Kotel on Yom Yerushalayim morning, were moving and inspirational far exceeding all expectations.” The programming, coordinated by a team led by Rabbi Doron Perez of World Mizrachi, brought the most talented and recognized speakers from around the world. Presenters included former Chief Rabbi of the UK Lord Jonathan Sacks, YU Rosh Yeshiva Rav Herschel Schachter, Chief Rabbi of the British Commonwealth Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Chief
Rabbi of South Africa Rabbi Warren Goldstein, Chief Rabbi of the State of Israel Rabbi David Lau, Jewish Agency President Natan Sharansky, Minister of Knesset Michael Oren, President of the Conference of Presidents Malcolm Hoenlein, and former Governor of Arkansas Mike Huckabee. There was even a session focused on the future of worldwide Religious Zionism that was attended by the eighty or so Religious Zionist rabbis who had attended from overseas. The Religious Zionists of America proudly sent the largest overseas contingent – many hundreds of individuals from dozens of communities – to represent the United States at the YY50 conference. Rabbi Gideon Shloush is the Executive Vice President of the RZA. The Religious Zionists of America is the US affiliate of the 115 year old World Mizrachi movement. The goal of the RZA-Mizrachi is to instill in the American Jewish community a commitment to Religious Zionism, the preservation of Jewish political freedom, the enhancement of Jewish religious life in the land of Israel, and the promotion of aliyah. For more information, visit www.rza.org.
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Shabbos Joy on a Sunday Morning
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n a recent Sunday, Yeshiva Darchei Torah’s second grade talmidim made a stunning presentation for their parents and grandparents about the 39 Melachos of Shabbos –through hand-made projects, a stunning video, and stirring song. It was the culmination of months of learning, hard work and creativity. Video can be viewed at darchei. org/39-melachos-video-2017.
One of the scores of beautiful posters created by the boys depicting Melachos
Rav Yaakov Bender, Rosh HaYeshiva, presents a talmid with a beautiful book about the 39 Melachos. At right, Rav Avrohom Bender, rebbi and sgan menahel
Second grade talmidim singing Shabbos zemiros together at the 39 Melachos Presentation
Fleetwood Synagogue Open House By Tamar Weinberg
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leetwood Synagogue, a small and close-knit community shul located in Mount Vernon just between Riverdale and New Rochelle, had overwhelming success at the OU Community Fair this year. Due to the interest from dozens of families in nearby and faraway areas, there was a follow-up event for families to get to know Fleetwood a little better. An Open House brunch was held where the shul entertained thirteen families, of which five came from Queens and five came from Riverdale. Rabbi Daniel Rosenfelt brings a youthful presence to the Fleetwood community. He is energetic, and is “really excited for the shul’s growth and potential.” He is only the fifth rabbi of the shul since it was founded in 1958. Rabbi Rosenfelt recently relocated to his Fleetwood home with his wife and three children after living in Queens. The choice – which to him was easy: “You can get a beautiful home for $500k, get a great education,
and everything you need” – is right at your doorstep. Fleetwood offers city living within the confines of a suburb, with shops that are within walking distance to many homes and the most prestigious schools just a short drive away. A dozen restaurants are located in all directions from Fleetwood, all within a 10-minute drive. The idea, he explained, is low-cost living without compromising on quality. With over fifty people in attendance, the open house was intended to introduce leaders within the community, real estate agents and community members themselves. “We’re looking for pioneers ... to grow this community,” Rabbi Rosenfelt said. In Fleetwood, “everyone helps out. That’s the attitude we have. We’re able to take care of everything together. Every man, woman and child should feel like they can build a better community.” Rabbi Rosenfelt spoke at the brunch about how Fleetwood is about to be an “out of town community in town,” and how Fleetwood can be summed up as an option that is low in
cost, high in quality, and accessible to just about everything. Fleetwood residents have the benefits of city living without the pricing of the city. Given its close proximity to all major schools in Bronx, Westchester and Connecticut, no compromises need to be made on education either. Above all, Rabbi Rosenfelt talked about the strong sense of community, with participants playing a role somehow in some shape or form. “Just like the Mishkan was the glue for the Jews in the desert,” he said, “our shul binds us together and allows us to offer an out of town community in the heart of New York.” Fleetwood Synagogue is a modern Orthodox congregation that serves
lower Westchester. Since the shul is a mere two blocks away from the Metro North Train Station, one can get to Grand Central Terminal in only twenty five minutes. The small community meets the needs of all types of diverse congregants and offers daily minyanim, an eruv that is forever growing, and now, a new young rabbi. For further information on Fleetwood Synagogue and its neighborhood, contact Rabbi Rosenfelt at rab-
birosenfelt@fleetwoodsynagogue. org.
This article was originally featured in The Jewish Link.
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HAFTR Students Awarded at the SKA Recognizes Their Athletes Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in L.A.
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AFTR High School seniors Rachel Sacks and Gila Schein received awards last week in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair, winning 4th place in their category—biomedical engineering. ISEF, which was held in Los Angeles this year, is the largest international pre-college science competition in the world, with a record 1,778 students from 78 countries, regions and territories. The students’ 4th place award is an outstanding achievement, considering both the great number and outstanding caliber of all the projects. Their project (The Influence of Metalized Graphene Oxide/Reduced Graphene Oxide and Sulfonated Polystyrene on Dental Pulp Cell Differentiation and Protein Adsorption) advances the cutting edge research in the area of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. They developed materials which stimulate human stem cells to transform into a host of specific functional specialized cells, opening the door for possible tissue and organ repair. Rachel and Gila were introduced
By Miriam Koslow, ‘17 to the world of scientific research in HAFTR’s Science Institute, under the direction of Mr. Stanley Blumenstein, and in the school’s scientific technology classes. The students pursued progressively more sophisticated projects, culminating in their participation in the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces Research Scholar Program at Stony Brook University, under the leadership of Dr. Miriam Rafailovich. They were mentored by Ms. Rebecca Isseroff. The girls were also Siemens semifinalists and Long Island Science and Engineering Fair finalists. “Rachel and Gila are extraordinary young women, and this award is a reflection of their brilliance and their tremendous dedication to this research project.” said Ms. Naomi Lippman, principal of general studies, adding, “We are deeply grateful to Mr. Blumenstein and Mrs. Isseroff for their mentoring and encouragement of these students.” After learning in Israel next year, Rachel will attend Columbia University, and Gila will attend MIT.
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n Monday, May 22, the Stella K. High School for Girls hosted their annual Sports Dinner as a way of acknowledging and thanking their energetic and enthusiastic student athletes on all eight of SKA’s sports teams. The girls were treated to a delicious dinner followed by a special guest speaker. This year we were privileged to hear from Rabbi Eli Brazil, Director of Camp Kaylie and Director of Student Activities at DRS, who clarified how important it is to act on the court using good middot. Sportsmanship, he explained, is more important than the game! The coaches from each team then gave out awards to students on their respective teams. Many awards were given for MVP, Rookie of the Year, Sportsmanship, and much more. Congratulations to all of our awardees on a job well done! Thanks goes out to all of our amazing coaches: Basketball: Naomi Agbashof; JV Volleyball and Varsity Volleyball B: Pammy Soloman; Varsity Volleyball A: Lauren Packer and
Tamar Weinberg; Softball: Esther Goldfeder and assistants Nina Meyer, and Sarah Sklar; Tennis: Helene Meyers and assistant Eliana Abbe; Hockey: Tali Weintraub and Jaclyn Wernick; and Soccer: Susie Lewin and Kelly Wright. The SKA Basketball Team was also privileged to receive their banner from the championship game that they won in March against Bruriah High School. Congratulations to Captains Chaiy Bodek and Miriam Kazlow and the team on retaining the championship for the fourth straight year. Everyone had a great time reflecting on this past season while looking forward to next year’s season. Special thanks go to SKA’s Athletic Director, Mrs. Helene Myers, for her dedication, and Mrs. Helen Spirn, Head of School, and Rabbi Yosef Zakutinsky, Director of Student Programming, for their support. SKA’s Sports Dinner is a wonderful way of showing the student athletes how important each and every one of them are to the team and to the school. We look forward to another year filled with fun and championships!
Booked for the Evening, A Chinese Auction and Sumptuous BBQ to Benefit the Levi Yitzchak Library and Family Center
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ook Yourself for the Evening” and you will win by participating in the Levi Yitzchak Library Chinese Auction and BBQ Benefit. Brisket King of NYC Kosher Pit Master Sruly Edelman of Izzy’s Brooklyn Smokehouse will whip up amazing dishes while he shares his story. For a second year in a row he took a top prize in the Brisket King NYC competition; come see and taste his BBQ mastery.
The event will be held on Monday, June 12, at 290 Ocean Avenue, Lawrence, NY 11559 at 7pm, followed by the auction drawing. You will also win by supporting a community icon. The Levi Yitzchak Library has enriched the lives of all of us in the community. We would be hard-pressed to find someone who has not enjoyed the library experience. Hundreds go on a regular basis to provide for themselves and their
children an enriching, wholesome Jewish educational experience. But the Levi Yitzchak Library is an independent non-profit center and relies primarily on community support and to keep its doors open. You do not need to attend this event to help support this pillar of our community. By purchasing auction tickets you might also win one of the extraordinary prizes at the auction. The very best of vacation offers,
fashion finds, culinary options, and technological must haves is up for grabs. Visit www.libraryauction.org or stop by at 564 Central Avenue in Cedarhurst to view the options and purchase tickets. Happy Tales to You! Prizes are available for viewing at the Levi Yitzchak Library during library hours.
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The boys at the Learn & Live program began to make their very own pair of tzitzis this past Sunday. R’ Mosey Kaplan showed the boys the steps of how to make tzitzis. This upcoming Sunday will be the L&L Annual Melochos Carnival. For more information regarding the L&L program please email us at learnandlivefr@gmail.com.
MAY Annual Spring Shabbaton
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esivta Ateres Yaakov held its annual Spring Shabbaton on the beautiful campus of Camp Romimu in Monticello, NY. The Shabbaton was a resounding success, replete with tremendous growth in Ruchniyus, achdus, ahavas Hashem and ahavas haTorah. From start to finish, the Shabbaton was an inspiring, exciting and stimulating weekend. S’gan Menahel, Rabbi Yossi Bennett, “kicked off” the Shabbos with inspiring divrei chizuk following Shacharis on Friday morning. Then it was off to the buses for a fun-filled, inspiring, action-packed Shabbos! The Mesivta invited Rabbi Pesach Krohn, shlit”a, the noted author and speaker, as their guest for Shabbos. Rav Krohn helped set the tone for the Shabbos, describing the incredible inspiration that could be gleaned
from even a single Shabbos. The lively Kabbalas Shabbos, with enthusiastic singing and dancing, was a fitting hakdamah to such a special Shabbos. The leibudikeit throughout Shabbos was amazing, with incredible singing and dancing at all meals. Rav Krohn commented on how impressed he was by the talmidim of the Mesivta. He repeatedly noted their demeanor, their ruach, their interaction with their rabbeim, and the chinuch and middos they demonstrated. As per MAY tradition, the Shabbas kibbudim had been auctioned to the bidders willing to commit to the most learning completed over the course of the long weekend. Students committed to over 200 hours of learning outside of the formal shiurim, and the talmidim honored their rabbeim with those kibbudim. The sheer amount of learning throughout the Shabbos,
both formally and informally, was a testament to the growth experienced this year throughout the z’man. Motzei Shabbos included the annual Junior Varsity vs. Varsity softball game, a barbeque Melava Malka, a stirring kumzits – all demonstrating incredible achdus and comradery among the talmidim and their rabbeim. On Sunday morning, eight senior
talmidim delivered chaburos they had prepared to the younger shiurim and their peers. The Mesivta thanks senior Rebbe, Rabbi Yonasan Sprung, for helping his talmidim with this undertaking. The Mesivta thanks Rabbi Shlomo Drebin for organizing the Shabbaton and Rabbi Shlomo Pfeiffer and Camp Romimu for hosting them.
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Gesher Teams with Avid Fitness to Offer Free Spinning Classes to the Community
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he excitement around the community has been building for the upcoming Gesher Century Challenge II. Decorative lawn signs have popped up around town, many riders have signed up, and many corporate sponsors and incentives are in place.
The Gesher Century Challenge is appealing to a wide spectrum of people. Experienced riders have the opportunity to ride 55, 70, or 100 miles of marked and supported trails. There are trails designed for less experienced riders, and even for those who want to ride with children as young as eight- or nine-years-old. Gesher has planned a fun day for all of the riders and their families. Besides for the abundance of kosher food at the start and finish site and at all rest stops, Gesher is the sponsor of the main rest stop at the spacious Roslyn Pond Park. The
Hurt? Not Feeling Well?
family fun will take place at that location. A delicious lunch is planned, as well as ice cream and ices for the children. Once again, Gesher will have a face painter/balloonist available to add to the fun. The Century Challenge event is consistent with Gesher’s goal of providing balanced and healthy resources to the community. Gesher is fortunate to have the opportunity to team up with others who share that goal. One partner is Avi Dagan of Avid Fitness in Cedarhurst. Avi is well recognized for his desire to help others to push themselves to live a healthier lifestyle. Avid Fitness as constantly on the lookout to share their resources with the community. Recently Team Avid Fitness participated in the OHEL Challenge, earning accolades as the top earning team with over $42,000. As a way of promoting the Gesher Century Challenge, Avid Fitness is offering free thirty minute spinning classes this Sunday evening, June 11. These separate men’s and women’s classes are open to the entire community. Space for the classes is limited and participants need to preregister at www.geshercenturychallenge.com/ riders/.
Dr. Joe Frager and Dr. Paul Brody brought Governor Mike Huckabee to Joseph’s Tomb (Kever Yosef) in Shechem on late Sunday night, May 21. They were escorted by the IDF, who spent an hour calming the local Arab residents who were protesting the visit to the tomb. The crowd eventually swelled to 5,000 Jews who came to daven.
Yachad-LI and High School Memorial Weekend Event
For more information about the Gesher Century Challenge please visit www.geshercenturychallenge. com
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achad-LI had a really successful event on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend, spending the afternoon with local high school students from HAFTR, DRS and SKA, making their very own sushi! Yachad members and students rolled together under the guidance and expertise of Stop Chop & Roll who led them step-by-step in the art of fine sushi making. Eating their very own sushi together was the highlight of the day, followed by all the participants enjoying some pizza
and refreshments! Yachad sends a big thank you to Eli Elias and Mackenzie Taller for all their hard work in organizing this incredible inclusion event, and to the Elais and Taller families for their sponsorships of the event. Yachad-LI continues to promote inclusion of individuals with disabilities into all areas of Jewish life and runs local programs, parent support groups, vocational services, school and more to families of individuals with disabilities.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Yeshiva Ketana of Long Island
Father-Son Bar Mitzvah Breakfast
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A Landmark Groundbreaking in Binyamin
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nesset Speaker Yoel (Yuli) Edelstein, Minister of National Infrastructure, Energy and Water Resources Yuval Steinitz (Likud), Binyamin Regional Council Chairman Avi Roeh, MKs and many other dignitaries gathered on Thursday, May 25 in Binyamin for a groundbreaking ceremony for The Binyamin Medical Center, slated to become the first full scale multi-faceted medical facility in Judea and Samaria. The Binyamin Medical Center is a joint venture of One Israel Fund and the Binyamin Regional Council, developed in cooperation with Israel’s Ministry of Health. The center is modeled after the Efrat Medical Center, which is located south of Jerusalem in the Gush Etzion bloc. The center in Efrat, built first and foremost to provide emergency services during the second intifada, has expanded in recent years to offer a range of health care services, including x-rays, labs, physiotherapy, dentistry, a pharmacy, and HMO branches of primary and family care.
According to Rabbi David Marcus, Israel Director General of One Israel Fund and who is overseeing construction of the new center, the Binyamin Medical Center will attract leading healthcare professionals to offer a wide range of services as an outpatient hospital. The Binyamin Region is the largest regional council in the country and is currently home to over 75,000
Jewish residents. When surrounding areas are taken into account, the Medical Center will service in excess of 150,000 Israeli citizens along with the local Arab population as well. “Of course, urgent care is the driving force behind the center,” said Marcus, who formerly served as executive director of the Efrat Medical Center. “The closest emergency care available for residents of Binyamin today is in Jerusalem. It can sometimes take 90 minutes or more to get from communities like Eli and Shilo to the capital city hospitals. This region needs a top-notch medical facility,” he added. The BMC aims to “have a transformative impact on the Binyamin region, bringing lifesaving medical care and peace of mind to residents who now live with the fear and uncertainty of not knowing whether they will be able to reach a hospital in the event of an emergency,” said Marcus. “The center will improve the region’s security and quality of life, provide many employment opportunities, and will be a powerful engine of growth for the future,” he added. To underscore the importance of the project, Executive Vice President of One Israel Fund, Scott M. Feltman, along with five executive board members and their families, flew to Israel for this momentous event. Said Mr. Feltman, “I ask everyone to look just beyond the event billboards. That is Route 60 and you can see the bumperto-bumper traffic stretching as far as your eyes can see. This is what families and emergency responders face each and every day in trying to reach a hospital. Once this center is built, along with all of the necessary infra-
structure plans for this entire industrial zone, including the new central bus station as well as the extension of the Light Rail, no longer will the families of today as well as tomorrow agonize about accessing outstanding emergency and specialty care.” At the ceremony, Minister Steinitz said, “This center is only a beginning. It is the nucleus for the establishment of a full hospital in the future. There will be a hospital here. I am now preparing master plans for the water sector for years ahead, which take into account a million settlers in Judea and Samaria. We hope that a birthing unit will be the hospital’s busiest department in the future.” The 7,000-square meter center will integrate all regional medical and emergency resources under one roof, including public and private HMOs, Magen David Adom, Hatzalah, the IDF Medical Corps, and local medical and security teams. Beyond emergency and family medicine, the multi-faceted facility will include a surgical center, a full imaging department, advanced eye-care, dialysis, pharmaceutical and lab services, a women’s health clinic, physical therapy and hydrotherapy, alongside a wide range of specialty medicine services, such as cardiology, orthopedics, diabetes, gastroenterology, psychological care and more. The Binyamin Medical Center also represents a new model for healthcare funding in Israel. Marcus said that a stand-alone emergency room in Efrat would have been too expensive to run and too difficult to maintain financially, so by designing a sophisticated model, integrating private and public health services, the group seized on a plan that will allow doctors and health care providers to expand their services to the region as well as ensuring the fiscal integrity of the enterprise. The Center is estimated to cost $15M, the overwhelming majority to come from philanthropic sources, and is expected to take 3-4 years to complete the first phase. Once open, it will be an engine for growth, stability and prosperity for everyone living in this region. To learn more about the Binyamin Medical Center, email scott@oneisraelfund.org or visit www.oneisraelfund.org.
ring:
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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Around the Community
“Yerushalayim is Ours and We Will Never Leave” Message Reverberates Through Music and Words at Israel Day Concert in Central Park PHOTO CREDIT: BARRY BROWN STUDIOS
Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem Dov Kalmanovitz Israel Consul General Danny Dayan with Drs. Joe Frager and Paul Brody
(L-R) Shloime Dachs; activist Ken Abramowitz; Organizer Dr. Joe Frager; Fox News’ Pete Hegseth; Amb. John Bolton; and Chairpersons Dr. Paul and Drora Brody
By Michoel Bretter
T
he music rocked the house and the message rocked the world. Drizzles of rain could not dampen the enthusiasm and spirit of those who came from far and wide to participate in Sunday’s Israel Day Concert in Central Park this week, many of whom were dressed and draped in Israeli flags and other pro-Israel insignia. The concert, now in its 24th year, was particularly powerful this year, as it heralded the 50th anniversary of Israel’s resounding victory in the Six Day War and the resulting reunification of Yerushalayim. It followed the massive Israel Day Parade down Fifth Avenue and amplified the Parade’s message. The Israel Day Concert was arranged by renowned pro-Israel activists Dr. Joseph Frager, Dr. Paul Brody and Mrs. Odeleya Jacobs, VP of Business Development and Public Policy for the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Brody and his wife Drora chaired the event and coined the concert theme “Concert with a Message.” The concert is dedicated in memory of Carl Freyer, z”l, Dr. Manfred R. Lehman and his Eishet Chayil Anne, z”l, and Rose and Reuben Mattus, z”l. Dr. Frager and Dr. Brody, as well as Nachum Segal, served as emcees for the event, imparting the message of the day to the crowd and introducing the individual speakers. The concert coincided with the first yahrtzeit of legendary pro-Israel philanthropist Dr. Irving Moskowitz, z”l. A special tribute to the late doctor and his wife Cherna, who is continuing his legacy, was made by their grandson, Rabbi
Singer Beri Weber
Yechezkel Moskowitz. The atmosphere was palpably jubilant and optimistic. “Coming from the UN, I’m not used to seeing so many supporters of Israel,” quipped Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon from the podium. “We are here to send a strong message to the UN and UNESCO: ‘Jerusalem is the united capital of the Jewish people – period!’” These are not merely words. As Dr. Frager noted in his introduction, Ambassador Danon has done more than any individual in history to improve Israel’s standing in the UN. The concert lasted nearly five hours, but the energy in the air only intensified as the clock ticked. With a massive stage adorned by American and Israeli flags as the backdrop, the Shloime Dachs Orchestra and Singers, along with a diverse range of superstar performers – Israeli, American, Sephardic, Chassidic – entertained the similarly diverse crowd, who, more often than not, swaying and/or dancing live to the music. Dr. Brody stressed how broad a spectrum of Jewry the music touches. The list of singers included Shloime Dachs, Michoel Pruzansky, Beri Weber, Dr. Meyer Abittan, Jerry Markovitz, Izzy Kiefer and Heshy R, Avi Kilimnick, “Mr. Shabbos” Josh Alpert, White Shabbos and
Concert Organizer Dr. Joe Frager and Concert Chairperson Dr. Paul Brody (4th & 5th from left) flanked by (L-R) former MK Lt. Col Yoni Chetboun; Fox Correspondent Pete Hegseth; Political Consultant Boris Epshteyn; former UN Amb. John Bolton; Israeli UN Amb. Danny Danon; Concert media relations Odeleya Jacobs; Mark Levinson, Esq., V.P. OJC NJ-Israel relations; Aaron Klein, chief Israel Bureau Breitbart News
Bezalel Levin. Special guest performers from Israel were Mati Shriki, Tal Vaknin, Elron Zabatani, who resides in the “Muslim Quarter” of the Old City, and pianist Shlomi Aharoni. And while song flavors were diverse, the theme amongst all songs of the day was common: pride in being Jewish and being connected to the Land of Israel; the beauty of Yerushalayim; and the importance of achdut, unity, among all segments of Jewry. One particular musical highlight was the first public debut of “Tivne Chomot Yerushalayim,” a moving song composed by Duvi Honig, Founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce – which was sung by Tal Vaknin. Between music and songs, a group of leading VIPs and staunch pro-Israel leaders delivered concise-yet-powerful addresses highlighting the importance of the miracle of half-century ago, as well as the importance of American Jewry using every resource at its disposal to battle on behalf of Israel. Speakers included Danny Dayan, Consul General of Israel in New York;
Dov Kalmanovitz, Deputy Mayor of Yerushalayim; former UN Ambassador John Bolton; former top Trump advisor Boris Epshteyn; Aaron Klein of Breitbart Jerusalem Bureau; Fox News contributor Pete Hegseth; Farley Weiss, National President of the National Council of Young Israel; Ken Abramowitz; Rivka Abbe; Morton Klein, President of the Zionist Organization of America; Mark Levenson, Chairman of the New Jersey-Israel Commission; and IDF combat veteran and former Knesset member Yoni Chetboun, author of Under Fire. Mrs. Odeleya Jacobs, one of the event organizers, explained the deep emotions that she and other American organizers and attendees feel regarding the celebration. “This concert was a message to the world to strengthen the fact that Hashem gave Eretz Yisroel to the Jewish People,” she said. “We are here to celebrate the miracle Hashem performed on our behalf fifty years ago when we got ‘Eretz Yisroel Hashleima,’ all of Eretz Yisroel. May Hashem continue to bless the Am HaYehudi.”
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Around the Community
Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J. Santino (2nd left) presents an official Town of Hempstead Citation to Rabbi Yehuda Pearl during his retirement celebration held at the Congregation Anshei Shalom located in West Hempstead. Rabbi Pearl is retiring after 38 years of service to the community. Pictured (L-R) are Rabbi Elon Soniker, Supervisor Santino, Rabbi Yehuda Pearl and Norman Kaish.
Otsar’s Chevra Joins in MAY Shabbaton
O
tsar’s Chevra program had the privilege to join Mesivta Ateres Yaakov on their annual Shabbaton to Camp Romimu. The Chevra were thrilled to spend time with the Menahel, Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe. This Shabbos was particularly special as Rabbi Paysach Krohn was invited to be guest speaker. The Chevra were seamlessly integrated with the Yeshiva students, and they truly enjoyed singing, dancing or learning in the Beis Medresh together. One of the rabbeim of the
Mesivta, Rabbi Horowitz said, “The bachurim of Otsar’s Chevra are so inspirational, they embody the purest type of simcha all the time and they are truly tzaddikim. They are an amazing lesson in chizuk for all of us.” The end result was an unforgettable Shabbos full of ruchniyus and simcha. Otsar Family Services is grateful for this relationship with Mesivta Ateres Yaakov as both sides become the beneficiaries by sharing new experiences together.
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Around the Community
A Celebration of Kedusha at Mesivta Chaim Shlomo
F
or the twelfth year in a row, Mesivta Chaim Shlomo of Yeshiva Darchei Torah has held a unique mesibah that celebrated a major achievement. 135 bachurim joined the most recent program, committing to higher levels of kedusha and shmiras einayim from Purim until Shavuos. The driving force behind this project is Rav Dov Keilson, mashgiach ruchani of the
Mesivta. The project is dedicated as a zechus for the neshama of Aryeh Leib Rabinowitz, a�h, a wonderful wheelchair-bound bachur who spent only eight months in Mesivta Chaim Shlomo before his passing and whose family testified that they were among the greatest months of his life. The guest speaker at the mesibah was Rav Label Lam.
Rav Laibel Lam, guest speaker
Rav Dov Keilson, mashgiach ruchani of Mesivta Chaim Shlomo
The mesibah celebrated the achievements of 135 bachurim
Fit for Consumption
R
abbi Yisrael Moshen, the assistant administrator of the Vaad Hakashrus of the Five
Towns and Far Rockaway, gave the eighth grade talmidim of Yeshiva Darchei Torah a hands-on primer
on bedikas tola’im, checking fresh produce for forbidden insects. (Rabbi Moshen is an alumnus of Yeshiva
Darchei Torah and its kollel, Kollel Tirtza Devorah.)
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1.
TJH
Centerfold
You gotta be kidding An American tourist was riding in a taxi in Israel. As the taxi approached a red light, the tourist was shocked to see the driver drive straight through without even slowing down. Surprised as he was, he didn’t say anything, feeling like a “guest” and not wanting to make waves. The trip continued without event until the next intersection. This time the light was green and, to the American’s dismay, the cab driver brought the vehicle to a grinding halt. Unable to contain his astonishment, he turned to the driver. “Listen,” he said. “When you went through the red light, I didn’t say anything. But why on earth are you stopping at a green light?” The Israeli driver looked at him as if the American was deranged: “Are you crazy?!” he shouted. “The other guy has a red light! Do you want to get us killed?”
Riddle me this? Two spies want to get in an enemy’s military base. In order to get in they have to give the correct countersign to the guard at the gate after he gives them the sign. So they wait hidden near the gate so that they will overhear the countersign from another soldier. One soldier comes and the guard gives the sign: “6.”The soldier answers “3.” The guard lets him pass. Another soldier comes. The guard says “12,” and the soldier gives the answer “6.”The guard lets him pass. The first spy goes to the gate and the guard says “10.” The spy, sure that he knew what the answer was, says “5.” Immediately, the guard shoots him dead. The other spy, who saw that the first spy was killed when he gave the wrong countersign, now understands what the countersign is. He walks to the gate and the guard says “8.” The spy gives the correct answer and the guard lets him in. What was the answer that the spy gave? See answer below
Answers to six day war trivia Answers: 1. B- Israel captured the Golan Heights from the Syrians in the Six Day War. During the battle in the Golan Heights Israel gained invaluable assistance from Eli Cohen, an Israeli spy who reached the upper levels of government in Syria and was the Chief Advisor to the Syrian Minister of Defense. Before the war he suggested to the Syrian army that they should plant eucalyptus trees to keep the Syrian soldiers cool. When fighting in the Golan began, whenever IDF soldiers saw eucalyptus trees, they knew that there were Syrians nearby.
2. C 3. B- After destroying more than 60% of Egypt’s planes, including the most advanced ones that they recently got from Russia, Israel turned its attention to Syrian and Jordanian airfields and destroyed 57 Syrian planes, which was 75% of their fleet, and all of Jordan’s 28 aircrafts. By the end of the war, the Arabs had lost 450 aircraft, compared to forty-six of Israel’s. 4. A 5. A 6. OK, you are on your own with this one…it’s below my dignity to answer this one, even in an answer key.
Wisdom Key 5-6 correct: You are an Israeli military expert. How’s your garinim skills…maybe you can become a major general? 3-4 correct: Nu?! 0-2 correct: Did someone preemptively attack your brain cells? Try question 6 again…take it real slow and use your fingers.
Answer to riddle: 5. The countersign is the amount of letters the number had.
the | OctOber 29, 2015 theJewish JewishHome Home | OctOber 29, 2015 The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
Six Day War Trivia 1. What did Israel capture from Syria during the Six Day War? a. Gaza b. The Golan Heights c. The West Bank d. East Jerusalem 2. Who was the U.S. president during the Six Day War? a. Richard Nixon b. Harry S. Truman c. Lyndon B. Johnson d. Jimmy Carter 3. The Six Day War started when the Israeli air force preemptively struck Egyptian airfields. How many Egyptian planes did Israel destroy in less than three hours? a. 78 b. 293 c. 475 d. 934 4. Which territories did Israel capture from
Egypt? a. The Sinai Peninsula and the Gaza Strip b. Judah & Samaria c. The West Bank and the Gaza Strip d. East Jerusalem and the Sinai Peninsula 5. Who was prime minister of Israel during the Six Day war? a. Levi Eshkol b. Menchaem Begin c. Yitzchok Rabin d. Yitzchok Shamir 6. How many days was the Six Day War? a. 5 days b. 6 days c. 7 days d. 66 days See answers on left page
You’ve been in Israel for too long when… You can split a sunflower seed from its shell with just your teeth while at the same time raising your eyebrows to indicate to your friend that you totally find his story not credible. It’s been 20 years since you had a conversation where the other guy was able to finish the sentence. You wear a soccer jersey to a job interview and you think you are being formal. Your favorite song is, “Velcom to zee hotel Caleeefornya...” You don’t cut lines, you just go to the front “to ask a question”...and once you’re there, you might as well just pay. You show up late wearing flip flops to a wedding....at which you are the groom.
Every conversation ends with, “Nu.” You can run towards a bus while shlepping two suitcases and simultaneously eating a shawarma in a laffa. You think that it is normal to drink 3 “cafe hafuchs” (cappuccinos) before noon, and you woke up at 10AM. When someone tells you that they live in New York, you ask them. “Atta yodeya hachaver sheli, Shalom? [Do you know my friend Shalom?]” You consider yourself to be a professional photographer because when you were in America 15 years ago you bought a camera at B&H.
You talk more with your hands than your mouth. You exhibit withdrawal symptoms if you don’t have hummus. You are excited about the trip to Thailand that you are taking in 3 ½ years.
You fought in three wars but you have daily anxiety about people slamming your car doors too hard. You argue with the technician who asks you to remove the Bluetooth device from your ear before undergoing an MRI.
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Torah Thought
Parshas Beha’aloscha By Rabbi Berel Wein
T
he menorah has been one of the symbols of the Jewish people from time immemorial. It remains so today as well, it being one of the major symbols representing the Jewish state of Israel. The original menorah was cast and fashioned from one solid, large piece of gold. According to Jewish tradition, the construction of this great artifact was so detailed and complicated that it was beyond the ken of human talent and ability. It was created miraculously, simply by somehow taking this great piece of gold and throwing it into a fire. From the midst of the fire sprang forth the menorah in all of its grandeur and beauty. The menorah represented the light of Torah, of G-dly wisdom and holy erudition. It represented not only light that illuminated the outside world and society but rather it spoke to Israel of an inner glow that emanated from the soul and from the physical senses of human beings. In the words of the great rabbis
of Torah: “Does the L-rd require its light?” The menorah itself was situated in the structure of the Temple in such a way that most Jews were never able to actually see it and
piety. Human beings instinctively treasure light and abhor darkness. Darkness covers evil deeds and nefarious plots. The animals of
It is the light that was meant to reach all of humankind and to illuminate the otherwise dark recesses that lurk within us.
benefit from its glow. So it was that the light, so to speak, was really not on public display and was and is an inner light that made the menorah so symbolic of the Jewish people and its beliefs. Believe it or not, Judaism is truly more concerned with the spirituality and holiness of the individual rather than on outward appearances and public displays of
prey prowl at night in the dark. In a world of secrets, darkness is the most accessible cover. The menorah came to dispel such darkness. It is the light that was meant to reach all of humankind and to illuminate the otherwise dark recesses that lurk within us. It is no wonder then that this light was deemed to be an eternal one, constantly lit in
the Temple and renewed day in and day out. In our modern world, genius or the activity of ideas and innovation is often represented by cartoonists as a lightbulb going on in our brain. This is because the flash of brilliance is always characterized as somehow seeing the “light.” The initial creation of the universe, so to speak, is itself described as the beginning of light. The menorah carries with it this message of light, holiness and of hope and optimism. That is why there can be no more fitting symbol for the Jewish people and for Israel than that of the menorah. In King Solomon’s wisdom, he constructed ten additional menorot to adorn the Holy Temple. The subtle message here is that there can never be enough light, for it nurtures our souls and guarantees our eventual success in physical and spiritual terms. Shabbat shalom.
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From the Fire
Parshas Beha’alosecha The Problem with Complainers By Rav Moshe Weinberger Adapted for publication by Binyomin Wolf
T
his is a sad parsha. All of our dreams for greatness, all of our idealism, began to unravel in this week’s parsha. We spent almost a year encamped beside Har Sinai. We were poised to march into Eretz Yisroel to claim the great destiny that Hashem promised to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov. But then something happened. Moshe begged his father-in-law Yisro to remain with the Jewish people and “make aliya.” Although he did not know it at the time, not only would Yisro not make aliya, but Moshe Rebbeinu himself would die in the desert, never to step foot in Eretz Yisroel because of the problems to come. In preparation for the great journey to Yerushalayim, Moshe Rebbeinu said (Bamidbar 10:35), “Arise Hashem and disperse Your enemies and those who hate You will flee from before you!” But when he said that, Moshe never imagined that the enemies of Hashem would not come from Kena’an, the land they would conquer, but from within the Jewish people! Immediately after we read of Moshe’s prayer for our success in conquering Eretz Yisroel, the descent be-
gins. When all is said and done, the parents would die in the desert and the children would wander for decades. What was the central reason for our downfall? What was the common denominator in all of the myriad of failures and foibles during our time in the desert ultimately leading to the decree that an entire generation would never step foot in the Promised Land? The easy answer is that it was the sin of the golden calf. But Chazal explain that this was a circumscribed fault, a terrible miscalculation and mistake, but it was not an all-encompassing fault. In this parsha, and in those that follow, the Jewish people crave meat and complain to Moshe about it, Miriam complains about Moshe, the spies complain about Eretz Yisroel, Korach and his cohorts stage a rebellion against Moshe, complaining that he was consolidating all of the honor, glory, and power to himself, and the list goes on and on. What was the common denominator in the failings of the desert which continue until this day? Complaining. Yet we do not find that one of the 365 prohibitions in the Torah is “Thou shalt not com-
plain.” But this pattern of complaints repeats itself again and again as the central downfall of our people in the generation of the desert. The Torah teaches us several things about the essence of complainers. First, the pasuk (Bamidbar 11:1) starts by saying, “And it was that the nation was complaining, which was evil in the ears of G-d, and G-d heard and was angry.” Yet the Torah never tells us what they were complaining about! What do we learn from this? That the complainers’ problem was not the topic about which they are complaining. That has nothing to do with it! The complainers’ problem was their nature as complainers. In halacha, we often make a distinction between a cheftza, an object, and a gavra, a person. One might have thought that a complainer’s problem is in the cheftza, the object of his complaint. One could mistakenly think that if we resolve the complainer’s complaint, he will be happy. Indeed, if someone who is not generally a complainer complains about something, this is, in fact, the case. If we resolve the object of his complaint, he will be satisfied. But this is
not the case for those people classified as complainers. The moment we resolve one complaint, he has something new to complain about. It never ends. This is because his complaints are not about the cheftza of his complaint. The object of his complaints is simply the most readily available outlet for his nature as a complainer. The problem is with the gavra. The person is a complainer, so he will complain regardless of his external circumstances. His worldview is negative. He looks at the world through a jaundiced, critical lens. His mind is twisted by nature, so he seeks out the bad in everything. He is predisposed to feeling that everyone else harbors ill-will toward him and that the world is filled with incompetent people whose lives are devoted to making him miserable. We all know such people. These are the people who gleefully pounce on the person reading the Torah whenever he makes a mistake. Such a person goes into a state of mourning if the reader manages to read the Torah perfectly. These are the people who whisper to the person who is about to lead the davening, “You won’t extend
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
the davening an extra minute if you know what’s good for you.” It does not matter whether it is the temperature in shul, the chazzan, the rav, the fellow next to him, or anything else. He will find something to complain about because that is his nature. We learn several other things about complainers from the parsha. The Torah (Bamidbar 11:4-6) says: “And the mixed multitude among [the Jewish people] caused themselves to have a craving and the Jewish people also cried again and they said, ‘Who will feed us meat? We remember the fish which we ate in Egypt for free… Now our souls are dry. There is nothing before our eyes except this manna!” The complainers began complaining and brought everyone else into their misery with them. The Torah teaches us two additional aspects of complainers here. The first is that they try to rope others in and spread their toxic outlook as widely as they can. A person can be completely content with how things are going, but after ten minutes with a complainer, suddenly everything looks dark, dismal, and bleak. The second thing we learn about complainers from these psukim is their trademark opening line: “I’ve spoken to a lot of people and they all feel this way.” They all feel that “everyone” agrees with them. “It’s not just me who feels this way. A lot of people agree with me. They just don’t want to come forward.” The complainers are the only brave souls who care enough to come forward with their criticism. Finally, a complainer sees only the bad in the present and feels sure that the future will be even worse. The only thing in which the complainer sees anything good in is the past – no matter how much historical revisionism is necessary to see it in such a light. These people looked back longingly at the free food they received in Egypt. First, of course it was free. They were slaves! And never mind the genocide committed against the Jewish children. Never mind the back-breaking labor. Think of the free food! But when it comes to the present, everything is dark and black. They said about the manna, which fell as a gift from Hashem every day, “our souls are dry. There is nothing before
our eyes except this manna!” Nevertheless, Hashem fulfilled the wishes of the complainers by giving them more meat than they could possibly eat. But, of course, they hated that too. Hashem therefore points out that the problem was never with the object of the complainers’ complaints. It is with Hashem Himself. They are ingrates. Hashem explains this as follows (Bamidbar 11:20), “Because you have hated Hashem who is among you and cried before Him to say, ‘Why did we ever leave Egypt?’” Complainers do not lack anything with respect to the object of their complaints. The problem is with their nature, outlook, and personality. The
resolve one complaint, they have another. It is an all-encompassing fault. As bad as the sin of the Golden Calf was, it was a circumscribed mistake, a tragic miscalculation. Moshe knew that he could work with that and help the people rectify their mistake. But again, the problem with complainers has nothing to do with the particular subject of their complaints. The trait of being a complainer is ingrained and cannot be resolved by addressing the complaint itself. Dealing with complainers is a never-ending, life-sucking, toxic enterprise. Moshe therefore gave up and said, “Just kill me now. I cannot work with these people.” And when the Jewish people com-
A person can be completely content with how things are going, but after ten minutes with a complainer, suddenly everything looks dark, dismal, and bleak.
complainers in the desert even convinced themselves (Bamidbar 16:13) that Egypt was “a land flowing with milk and honey!”
COMPLAINERS CAN ONLY DESTROY, NEVER BUILD And what was Moshe’s response to the people’s complaints? How did the greatest leader in our history respond? He begged Hashem (ibid. at 11:15), “Please kill me if I have found favor in your eyes!” Moshe essentially said, “G-d, if you love me, just kill me now.” Why did Moshe react this way? Is this the same man who heroically came to our rescue when we built and worshiped the Golden Calf shortly after receiving the Torah at Sinai? Why was Moshe our fearless advocate after that terrible sin, but when we complain, which was not even one of the 613 mitzvos, Moshe immediately threw up his hands, gave up all hope, and begged G-d to just take his life? Why was this? We see from Moshe’s reaction that when it comes to complainers, you can never win. The moment you
plained after the report of the spies, Hashem Himself said that there was no hope for that generation. He decreed that they die in the desert. Eretz Yisroel cannot be built by complainers. They only know how to destroy, to criticize, to negate. They are incapable of building anything. It is the same thing in any organization, institution, or shul. The idealists build and create while the complainers find faults with everything the builders and creators do. “Look at this! There’s a loose tile in the social hall! What kind of shoddy work is this!” As if they would have ever built anything themselves. We see Moshe’s awareness of the difficulty in dealing with complainers reflected later in the parsha as well. When Miriam is afflicted with tzara’as, a skin disease, Moshe offers the shortest prayer ever for her recovery (ibid. at 12:13): “G-d, please heal her!” That was the extent of his prayer. Why did he not pray at length, as he surely wanted to do? Rashi explains that it was “so that the Jewish people should not say, ‘For his sister he prays at length, but for us he does not pray at length!’” Notwithstanding
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all of Moshe’s sacrifice and lengthy prayer for the sake of the Jewish people, he knew that the complainers would forget all of that and simply complain if Moshe uttered more than a few words of prayer for his sister’s recovery. With complainers, one simply cannot win. Building Eretz Yisroel, or anything worthwhile, requires the attitude described in the pasuk (Tehillim 34:12), “Who is the man who desires life, who loves days to see good.” Builders, creators, and idealists love life. They see good. This is the prerequisite for a person who wants to build and create. It is the opposite of the quality exhibited by complainers, those who look at the world through the lens of a crooked mind which sees only negativity and incompetence around him. My wife told me that one of the ladies in the shul made a resolution before Rosh Hashana not to complain during the upcoming year. Although this woman is not a complainer by nature, due to the pressures of making a living and raising her large family, she found herself complaining more often than before, and it was bothering her. She therefore resolved not to complain. She wanted to see the good and be grateful for all of Hashem’s blessings in her life. Such a resolution is extremely powerful and has the power to change the quality of one’s life for the good in an immense way. While I have no doubt that complainers will simply complain about what I have said here, I encourage everyone reading what I have said to discuss this issue with his or her family and friends. Think about whether and to what extent you have been a builder or a complainer. With Hashem’s help, may we merit to see the ultimate good and the fulfillment of everything we have been working toward building throughout the long years of exile with the coming of Moshiach and the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash, may we see it soon in our days.
Rav Moshe Weinberger, shlita, is the founding Morah d’Asrah of Congregation Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY, and has served as Mashpia in Yeshiva University since 2013.
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
Between the Lines
G-Z-Y By Eytan Kobre
The only thing that is constant is change. -François de la Rochefoucauld
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hen I was a child, my parents received a monthly publication called “Growing Child,” which touted itself as a parenting “newsletter timed to the monthly age of the child.” The punchline of each newsletter could be distilled to something like, Your child is X months old and may be experiencing such-and-such. This is just a phase and it will soon pass. Sometime after I turned 400 months, I think my parents gave up on the hope that it was just a phase. But, wittingly or otherwise, “Growing Child” may have been onto something. Because, with experience, one comes to realize that everything in life is just a phase. Nothing is forever. The story is told of a great king, some say Shlomo,1 who took great joy in sitting atop the roof of his palace, surveying the surrounding city.
He once observed a man (some say his chief general, Benayahu ben Yehoyada) walking through the marketplace dressed in gold from head to toe. The curious king summoned the man and asked how he had amassed so much gold and whether he was a thief. “Certainly not!” insisted the man indignantly. “I am a master silversmith and this is a metropolis. Dignitaries and wealthy people are always breaking their jewelry, which I fix and return as new…for a handsome sum, of course.” The king was intrigued. “If you are indeed a great silversmith, accept this challenge. In three days’ time, bring me a wondrous piece of jewelry that can turn a person’s mood no matter the circumstances – jewelry that can cast joy to melancholy and lift melancholy to joy. If you succeed, I will appoint you my royal treasurer and you will never have to work another day as a common silversmith.” The silversmith accepted. For three days, the silversmith created ring after ring, as he had seen on the finger of many a ruler and dig-
nitary, and, as the appointed time approached, the silversmith set out for the palace with a slew of masterful creations. Upon entering the palace, he encountered the prince (some say Shlomo’s son Rechavam). After some initial pleasantries, the discussion quickly turned to the purpose of the silversmith’s visit, whereupon the silversmith told of the king’s challenge. “Hand me one of those rings,” said the prince. The silversmith produced one fine ring from his collection. The prince placed the ring on his finger and carved the Hebrew letters gimmel –zayin – yud on its three sides. “Take this,” the prince said, handing the ring back to the silversmith. “Give this to the king and he will be pleased.” The king was pleased indeed. He understood immediately that gimmel, zayin, yud, stood for Gam Zeh Ya’avor – “this too shall pass.” And it was precisely what he had sought: when he was at the zenith of his power and glory, the ring would remind him how quickly it could all disappear; when he was at his personal nadir, the ring would remind him that
he would once again rise to power. The story – with its enduring message – has found a place in American history as well. Abraham Lincoln, a master storyteller, often repeated his favorite story: “This Too Shall Pass.” Lincoln actually popularized that saying and adopted it as his personal mantra. In a September 30, 1859 address to the Wisconsin State Agricultural Society, Lincoln commented on the phrase he popularized, with these remarks. How much it expresses! How chastening in the hour of pride! How consoling in the depths of affliction! And yet let us hope it is not quite true. Let us hope, rather, that by the best cultivation of the physical world, beneath and around us, and the intellectual and moral world within us, we shall secure an individual, social, and political prosperity and happiness, whose course shall be onward and upward, and which, while the earth endures, shall not pass away. During World War II, many Jewish-American soldiers wore rings inscribed with the letters G-Z-Y (or Gimmel-Yud-Zayin) – advertised as a
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
symbol of good luck and a “prophecy of our holy men” – heartened and reassured by its hopeful message. “So it will be always, the cloud will cover [the Tabernacle by day] and a vision of fire [will cover it] at night,” which can be understood as a metaphor for life itself (L’Torah Ul’Moadim, Bamidbar 9:16). A person at the height of success, the sun shining upon his or her every action, should recognize that it will not be so forever, that clouds will surely come sooner or alter. And in trying times, one cannot abandon hope, for there is always a vision of fire to brighten the path out of darkness. Neither good times nor bad times endure forever. Indeed, the text of Shema is the same for the morning and for the night because we profess the same belief in G-d in good times (morning) and in bad (night). “So it will be always.” The only permanence in life is impermanence. Material success is described as “a turning wheel” because
of its cyclical nature (Shabbos 151b), but life itself runs in cycles (Avos 4:28; Malbim, Bereishis 41:51-52; Ibn Ezra, Koheles 7:14). Nothing is forever.
(Yalkut Tehillim 680). And even when we seem to find ourselves plunged into some personal abyss of darkness, G-d guarantees “there will be a light” (Chofetz Chaim, Bereishis 1:3). One
In trying times, one cannot abandon hope, for there is always a vision of fire to brighten the path out of darkness.
This would all be so depressing were it not also so hopeful. Because no matter how bleak things seem, there is always a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Even when things don’t seem to go our way, G-d’s “anger” lasts but one moment (Tehillim 30:6; Berachos 7a). “If you see that the crisis seems too overwhelming, immediately you will be redeemed”
passing moment until all turns back to good. * * * In bygone times, the slower pace of life meant that life’s inevitable cycles transitioned gradually. We live in a rapidly-evolving world plagued by financial ruin, political upheaval, international conflict, terrorism, pover-
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ty, disease, and natural disasters. We slip in and out of good times and bad times with the blink of an eye. Whenever we seem to lose perspective – in good times or bad – we are steadied by the knowledge that “this too shall pass.” It is a constant reminder that, however we suffer or are exalted, the moment is fleeting. These words – passed from Shlomo to Lincoln to brave World War II soldiers – are a constant reminder that nothing is forever. It’s all just a phase. 1. The story of the ring is of uncertain origin, depicted in varying iterations. The within version was authored by the Sadigora Rebbe, R’ Dovid Moshe Shapira, in the July 12, 1942 edition of “Der Tug” without further attribution.
Eytan Kobre is a writer, speaker, mediator, and attorney living in Kew Gardens Hills. Questions? Comments? Suggestions? E-mail eakobre@outlook.com.
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
The Observant Jew
Main Menu By Rabbi Jonathan Gewirtz
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ave you ever gone to a restaurant and everything on the menu looked so good you had a hard time making up your mind? The descriptions sound intriguing and you just can’t decide. At least I can’t. I keep trying to figure out what I will enjoy more. I wonder how big the portions will be and what flavors they will introduce. I think menus should come with pictures. Of course, you’re still only guessing. Sometimes I agonize over the menu for so long that I simply don’t enjoy the experience. Then I tell myself I’m being silly, and I pick something. Sometimes it’s good and I’ll remember that for the future, and sometimes it’s not and I usually won’t remember until I order it again in the future because it sounds good again. Now, if you’re lucky, there will be a list of specials. Those are things that the chef recommends and they’re often a good value. Why? Because it’s something they need to get rid of quickly before it goes bad or that wasn’t popular in some other form. They spice it up and make it yummier to sell fast. Another way to aid your decision is to ask others who’ve been to the restaurant before. If you don’t know anyone to ask, you can look for people who post reviews (being careful to avoid lashon hara, of course, I’m sure) and gain insight from their experiences. Pay special attention to
people who seem to be experts in the matter, who have gone to the place multiple times. Of course, the times that I am most satisfied with the decisions I've made is when your choices are limited. Would you like the chicken or the beef?is a great question. I can decide what I'm more in the mood of that evening. You still might want to inquire about the method of preparation as a fried cutlet is quite different than a stuffed capon or a roasted ¼ chicken, but it makes the choice
That’s when we go for the tricks. Looking at someone else’s plate may not help us, as we can’t tell exactly what choices they made to get where they are or if the final dish served to us will look anything like it. So instead we turn to the Chef’s recommendations. He actually has a whole book of them. It’s called the Torah and unlike a restaurant, these aren’t mitzvos or guidelines that will be out of style or no longer fresh anytime soon. Rather, these are things He really suggests we do. Not be-
Life is a smorgasbord of choices.
easier. I’d have to say my favorite choice was the time I was given the choice of grilled chicken breast, rib steak, or salmon fillet. My decision took all of .00001 seconds. And that’s what started this article off. Life is a smorgasbord of choices. We are faced with decisions all the time. Not just what to eat or what to wear, but what to say, what to think, and what to do. We have to try to think like chess grandmasters and imagine the results of those choices fifteen moves in advance or else face the unpleasant consequences our choices might bring down upon us.
cause if we don’t listen to Him we’ll be punished, but because He knows what we will like or, conversely, what will leave a bad taste in our mouths. The Chef also recommends that we ask others for recommendations. Those are our chachomim who are experts in the Torah and the world. They are the grandmasters who think many steps ahead and can see the dangers of certain decisions. That’s why they enacted safeguards to help us. They made gezeiros on certain things not to “take away all my fun” but to prevent us from getting hurt on the slippery slope that all too often doesn’t seem so danger-
ous when we first happen upon it. The result, when we listen to the Torah and our chachomim, is that the bad choices – the overcooked foods or the ones which will make us sick or just feel gross – are removed from the menu. Our slimmed-down options put us in a better position to enjoy the party which is called life. While some will say that life is about experiencing different things, and not being able to experience them diminishes life, they’re probably not thinking about experiencing kidney stones or appendicitis. The things that seem attractive may end up being worse than either. Fortunately for us, by following the main menu of preferred choices and options, life will be a constant feast of epic proportions and exquisite delicacies. © 2017 – All Rights Reserved. Jonathan Gewirtz is an inspirational writer and speaker whose work has appeared in publications around the world. You can find him at www.facebook.com/RabbiGewirtz, and follow him on Instagram @RabbiGewirtz or Twitter @RabbiJGewirtz. He also operates JewishSpeechWriter.com, where you can order a custom-made speech for your next special occasion. Sign up for the Migdal Ohr, his weekly PDF Dvar Torah in English. E-mail info@JewishSpeechWriter.com and put Subscribe in the subject.
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
On the Streets of
Israel
Today I Wear Shoes By Elana Dure
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oday I am wearing white Nike sneakers. It is May 16th and I am visiting what remains of the Warsaw Ghetto Wall. “To have shoes and to not have shoes in the Warsaw Ghetto is the difference between life and death,” says our tour guide, Rachel, who traveled with us to Poland all the way from Israel. Rachel is a full-time tour guide at Yad Vashem and made her first voyage to Poland 20 years ago. I, along with 27 other participants of various Masa programs, joined an initiative to visit Poland through the Masa-GLI Holocaust Education Program. Despite its misleading title, the journey is not a Holocaust trip. While learning about the past, we will also focus on the present and future of Poland’s Jewry. Over the course of a week, we will examine the challenges of Poland’s Jewish community, including its task of pushing beyond the stigma of its troubled history. It is only our second day in Warsaw and we have already met with the country’s Chief Rabbi Michael Schudrich as well as learned about the history of Jews in Poland at the Polin Museum. We will later visit the
JCCs of both Warsaw and Krakow, as well as witness the remnants of a Jewish shtetl and the memorial at Treblinka. *** Today I am wearing white Nike sneakers. It is May 18th and I am at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Before me, in a glass display case, lay 80,000 pairs of shoes. I stare at
to choose whether or not to return to their hometowns in Poland. In the end, many chose to move away from the destruction of the past. Before the Nazi occupation of 1939, Poland was home to the largest Jewish diaspora in the world with a population of 3 million. Today the census lists approximately 1,000 Jews, although the population is growing as the Jewish community welcomes Poles who learn they are
Each shoe represents a life lost; a person who lost his opportunity to live. the overwhelming pile in disbelief. The grays and browns of the shoes mesh into a blob of conformity. No shoe is identifiable; its match hidden underneath thousands of other lonely soles. The symbolism of these shoes is striking. At once I am hit with a wave of sadness and shock. Each shoe represents a life lost; a person who lost his opportunity to live. After the Holocaust, survivors faced a dilemma. They were forced
Jewish later in life. After the Shoah, during communism, many Jews were too scared to outwardly celebrate their Judaism. They hid their religion from everyone, including their families. Now, children of the third generation are learning from their grandparents that they do, in fact, have Jewish roots. As such, members of the community must face a new dilemma. They must choose whether or not to em-
brace their Judaism. *** Today I wear white Nike sneakers. It is May 22nd and I just landed at Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv. Despite walking down this path a handful of times before, the ground feels more welcoming, more stable, more significant. There exists a Jewish homeland. We have a Jewish homeland. Despite the atrocities of Europe, our nation persevered and found its promise land. Then I pause, and remind myself that this is the narrative I learned as a child, not the story I heard on this trip. Because despite the atrocities of the Holocaust, Poland’s Jewish community survived and it is flourishing. They are welcoming. They are significant. They are stable. Today, the Jews of Poland wear shoes too.
Elana Dure is a resident of Woodmere and recent graduate of the University of Maryland. She is currently teaching English in Petach Tikva through Masa’s Israel Teaching Fellows program.
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The Six Day War or The Six Day Miracle? A 50 Year Old Chanukah Story in the Days of Shavuos By Brendy J. Siev
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his week, 50 years ago, Israel was besieged, and its existence – and that of all the Jews within her – was in limbo. The Arab world had assembled and their intentions were bloody and clear. The Egyptians cut off Israel’s only supply route from Asia. The Americans and French, in a show of supposed neutrality, would not send arms to Israel; the Soviets were sending military weapons to the Arab states. UN troops, meant to buffer a boundary between Israel and Egypt, had quietly slipped away. We were alone. But we were not. In a stunning and miraculous victory, Hashem led us through a Six-Day War, a whirlwind Chanu-
kah-level victory of the few over the entire Middle East and Soviet military machine. On the seventh day, we rested, stunned by the delivery of the Old City, the Kotel, the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Golan Heights, and Sinai Desert in Jewish hands. Fifty years ago this week, in “six short days, Israel swung from the fear of annihilation to the euphoria of an astounding victory,” writes former Knesset member Einat Wilf. Zionism, once the realm of highly secular and atheist Jews and a small group of religious Zionists, suddenly surged and brought strength to the religious Zionist movement. “For those who believed that G-d works in mysterious ways to bring about
the redemption of the Jewish people,” states Wilf, “1967 was proof.” The religious Zionist and settler movement grew; the ba’al teshuva movement grew with it. The Six Day War also empowered Jews who were quietly fading into the secular world of assimilation to feel Jewish pride and to pour resources into the Jewish State. Because, as the military correspondent for Haaretz wrote: “Even a non-religious person must admit this war was fought with help from heaven.”
THE YEARS BEFORE
always wanted peace with its neighbors. Keenly aware of its tiny status in the Middle East, the country and the people have wanted nothing more than shalom and at least a gritty harmony. But when they reached out to their neighbors to meet, Arab leaders, such as Egypt’s Gamal Abdel Nasser, said that Israel was out to deceive them and the world. They would never recognize the Jewish State and would never negotiate and settlement for refugees. Nasser even said in 1964, “The danger of Israel lies in the very existence of Israel as it is in the present and in what she represents.”
A Hope for a Handshake...A Rancorous Refusal From its inception, Israel has
The PLO Is Born Following the Arab League’s first
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JUNE 8, 2017 | The Jewish Home
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Israeli tanks advancing in the Golan Heights
Palestinian Congress, the Arabs formed the Palestinian Liberation Organization, the PLO. Its largest faction, Fatah, led by Yasser Arafat, created a Palestinian National Charter calling for Israel’s destruction. In fulfillment of their mission, they began to launch terrorist attacks and raids against Israeli civilians. These attacks involved not just guerrillas coming into Israel from Jordan, Gaza, and Lebanon, but actual orders from Egypt and Syria. Nasser wanted to harass the Israelis as well as undermine King Hussein in Jordan because King Hussein did not support the PLO, perceiving it as a threat to himself and his reign. A Secret Meeting...A Secret Recording By late 1965, Arab leaders convened in secret in Morocco. Their purpose: to discuss forming a coalition to go to war against Israel. But King Hassan II, the meeting’s host, did not fully trust his Arab guests and was prepared to allow a secret Mossad unit, “The Birds,” to infiltrate the conference. A day before, fearing their cover would be broken, Hassan told them to leave, but he eventually provided the Israelis with a secret recording of the meeting. This recording would be invaluable to the Israelis. On the one hand, they learned that the Arabs were divided and unprepared. On the other hand, the Israelis learned that they must prepare. Syria, in the meantime, grew increasingly angry and hostile toward Israel, especially when the country starting taking water from
Ariel Sharon, commander of an armored division in the Sinai at the time
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Blowing the shofar in victory
now had to put actions behind his savage and bellicose words. And so, on May 15, Yom Haatzmaut, Egyptian troops started moving into the Sinai Desert and massing near the Israeli border. Nasser ordered the UN troops in Sinai to withdraw from buffering between Egypt and Israel; they complied. At the same time, the Syrians gathered along the Golan Heights.
UN about Israel. The sole method we shall apply against Israel is total war, which will result in the extermination of Zionist existence.” This was reiterated by the Syrian defense minister who bragged that his army was now “entirely ready not only to repulse the aggression, but to initiate the act of liberation itself, and to explode the Zionist presence in the Arab homeland. The Syrian army, with its finger on the trigger, is united...to enter into a battle of annihilation.”
He told the pilots, “Remember: your mission is one of life or death. If you succeed – we win the war; if you fail – G-d help us.”
Formidable Opponents Assemble These chilling sentiments were no longer words or hate speech. No longer were the Israelis facing the challenge of individual terrorists or small attacks. The UN had silently walked away without a word of censure or an attempt at peace. The Israelis, 22 years after the German attempt to annihilate their nation, were facing another bitter foe with Nazi-istic intent. Six million had not been enough. The Arab countries and their troops assembled. Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon stood at the borders. Iraq, Algeria, Kuwait, and Sudan were ready as well. The troops numbered 465,000, armed with 2,800 tanks and 800 fighter planes. In order to stay neutral, the U.S. and France would not supply Israel with arms; the Soviets, however, sent arms to the Arabs.
the Jordan River. The Syrians used the Golan Heights as a springboard for repeated attacks and shelling of Israeli children, farms, and villages. The Israelis were criticized for retaliating, and the UN, told to monitor a ceasefire, did not stop the aggression. Even a basic UN resolution expressing regret over these incidents was vetoed by the Soviets. Nasser famously bragged in
1965, “We shall not enter Palestine with its soil covered in sand; we shall enter it with its soil saturated in blood.” He equated “restoration of rights of the Palestinian people” with “the eradication of Israel.” But the Israelis did not stand down. They finally retaliated on April 7, 1967; then, Israeli planes shot down six Syrian fighter jets provided by the USSR. False Intelligence, Soviet Incitement Angered, the Soviets sent false intelligence to Egypt. The Israelis, they claimed, had massed troops on the Syrian border and were prepared for a full-on military attack. The Syrians in turn called upon the Egyptians to honor its defense treaty between the countries. Nasser
Casus Belli The Egyptians cut off Israeli shipping to and from Eilat, stopping supplies from Asia and oil from Iran in violation of American and UN conventions and right to access. Despite that President Johnson in the United States tried to organize against the blockade (and stop Israel from entering a war), the U.S. president considered this act a casus belli, or an act that justifies war. Even Nasser knew that he was forcing the Israelis to enter war and said, “The Jews threaten to make war. I reply: Welcome! We are ready for war.” The Voice of the Arabs radio station declared, “As of today, there no longer exists an international emergency force to protect Israel. We shall exercise patience no more. We shall not complain anymore to the
WAR BREAKS OUT Israel Prepares for War and Its Casualties Indeed, Yitzchak Rabin, IDF
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OCTOBER 29, 2015 | The Jewish Home
Israel prepares Centurion tanks for battle
chief of staff, knew that the country does not “want war for its own sake.” He saw that “our existence is in serious danger.” The government prepared graves for tens of thousands in Tel Aviv parks. Though he knew from the secret recordings how poorly prepared the Egyptians were, Rabin was worried about waiting to act. Though David Ben-Gurion disagreed, Israel decided to preempt the attack and use surprise to give themselves an advantage. On June 5, 1967, Prime Minister Levi Eshkol gave the order to attack Egypt. He felt the support of the people, whom Foreign Minister Abba Eban wrote, “were gripped by a spirit of union and resolve. Men of military age silently laid down their work in factory, office, and farm, took up their files of reservist papers and disappeared toward the south.” Moreover, around the world, “thousands of young men were crowding the offices of Israeli consulates and Jewish Agency institutions...asking to be sent to Israel for immediate service.” The Israelis Attack: Operation Moked On June 4, Rabin visited the air force bases. He told the pilots, “Remember: your mission is one of life or death. If you succeed – we win the war; if you fail – G-d help us.” The Israeli Air Force, except for 12 fighters left to defend the country’s airspace, took off in the early morning of June 5, 1967. Their mission? To bomb Egyptian airfields while the Egyptians would be at breakfast. By 11 a.m., 180 Egyp-
Firing on Syrian positions
tian fighter planes were destroyed. Though the original plan was not to attack Syria until Israel was attacked, the Israeli fighters turned to attack the Syrian and Jordanian air forces and an airfield in Iraq. By the time the sun set on June 5, most of the Egyptian and half of the Syrian air force had been destroyed on the ground. The Arabs, in the meantime, broadcast their own propaganda: the Arabs had bombed all the major Israeli cities. The Israelis did not contradict this to keep the world’s sympathy on their side From Sky to Land: The West Bank is Conquered After the tremendous success with the air force, the Israelis turned to the ground, battling with tanks in the Sinai Desert. By June 9, they had taken over the Sinai Peninsula. But they were not going to touch the West Bank until King Hussein initiated hostilities. Here again, propaganda and misinformation played a role. The Jordanians, seeing that planes were flying from Egypt to Israel – and hearing from the Egyptians that the planes were theirs – opted to shell West Jerusalem and take over the UN headquarters near Talpiot. These planes, however, had been Israeli planes returning from Egypt. This mistake cost the Jordanians the West Bank. Within 48 hours, the Israelis counterattacked and took over the entire region. The Arabs, so convinced of an Arab victory, welcomed the Israelis with flowers and flags, assuming they were supportive
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Praying at the Kotel
Iraqi forces. The Israelis held back from entering the Old City, purposely allowing civilians to have escape routes. Palestinians then fled the area. On June 7, at 6:15 in the morning, Moshe Dayan told his troops to circle the Old City and to enter it. The frum soldiers waiting to enter davened and counted the omer. Paratroopers secured the city. And the Jews entered the city, climbing over a tank stuck in the Lion’s Gate, to get in. “Everyone,” said Rabbi Menachem HaCohen, at the time assistant to the chief rabbi, “as if in sync, began to run in the direction of the Har HaBayit.” Har HaBayit B’Yadeinu At 10:08 am, a message was received, “The Temple Mount is in our hands and our forces are by the [Western] Wall.” At the Kotel, IDF Chaplain Rabbi Shlomo Goren blew shofar to celebrate. Rabbi HaCohen said, “I went down from the Temple Mount with two soldiers to the Kotel by way of the Mugrabi Gate. We were the first ones to do this. I knew the area because I grew up in Old Jerusalem. In the middle of the way we saw two Arabs with their hands raised in surrender. In a few moments everyone who was on the Temple Mount descended, until the square was filled with soldiers.” Rabbi Goren led Mincha near the Kotel. Rabbi HaCohen got in a jeep and went to get his father. He related, “When I found my father I said to him that I came to bring him to the Kotel. He wrote a number of books
on the Kotel, and when he heard this he started to cry. He took his hat and he started to come with me.” Next, they went to Rabbi Goren’s fatherin-law, who did not respond, because he had taken upon himself a taanis dibbur during the war. Three rabbis quickly gathered for hataras niddarim, and then he left the house with the HaCohens, and the rav with only socks on his feet (his rebbetzin ran after him with slippers). Next, they went to the home of Rav Tzvi Yehudah Kook, who also did not respond: he was too ecstatic for words. Rabbi HaCohen “picked him up with my hands and brought him from the room after I had taken off of him the tallis and tefillin.” When they came to the Kotel, Rabbi Goren’s father-in-law stood leaning on the stones, frozen. Rav Kook was almost in a different consciousness, and when he saw where he was, he began to cry. Together with Rabbi Goren they read a perek of Tehillim. Moshe Dayan said upon arrival at the Kotel, “We have returned to all this is holy in our land.” Paratroopers struggled to touch the wall, battle-weary and tearful. Other commanders bowed their heads in silence, shaken and trembling. The longing that exists in every Jew to reach Jerusalem had been fulfilled. Thus the Israelis had defeated the Jordanians in three days. In the Golan In the meantime, a smaller legion was defending the Galil against Syria. Once the Egyptians and Jordanians were defeated, the rein-
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Israeli tanks entering Gaza
Raising the flag
forcements joined them against the Syrians who had the high ground in the Golan. On June 9, after two days of air bombardment, the Israelis broke through the Syrian lines. The Israelis had captured the Golan Heights. Triple in Size After six days, the Israelis were ready to go into the capital cities of Egypt, Syria, and Jordan. But the Americans advised them to accept a ceasefire; the Soviet Union was worried about the Israeli power and was threatening to enter the war. The Israelis, who were not interested in conquering beyond the West Bank, Sinai, and Golan, accepted the ceasefire on June 10. They had tripled the size of the country from 8,000 to 26,000 square miles. What If…? Plan B Most recently, on the fiftieth anniversary of the war, Israel disclosed their “Plan B.” During the Six Day War they had a contingency plan, called “Shimshon,” to detonate a nuclear bomb on a mountain in the Sinai Desert, a mere 12 miles from an Egyptian military base. This would serve as a warning to Egypt and the other Arab states. Until today, they call their last-resort use of nuclear weapons the Samson Option. Israel was rushing to put together an atom bomb for the detonation. Their plan was to send paratroopers to divert the Egyptian army and allow two helicopters to land the bomb and create a command post off the mountainside. In the event the bomb would be detonated, the
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mushroom cloud would be seen through the Sinai and Negev deserts and even in the Egyptian capital of Cairo. As the brigadier general, Itzhak Yaakov, said Socratic-ly in an interview, “Look, it was so natural. You’ve got an enemy, and he says he’s going to throw you to the sea. You believe him. How can you stop him? You scare him. If you’ve got something you can scare him with, you scare him.”
Israel’s population was small, this was a proportionately painful loss; 46 of 200 Air Force fighters died as well. Though these losses were difficult, this war was a case of rabbim be’yad me’atim: 15,000 Egyptians, 2,500 Syrians, and 800 Jordanians died attacking Israel. A War of Inspiration? The Six Day War, according to Sigal Samuel, marked a key religious shift for Arabs as well. Following the
At 10:08 am, a message was received, “The Temple Mount is in our hands and our forces are by the [Western] Wall.”
Fomenting Fear Amazingly, the Arab propaganda machine was still at play after the ceasefire. Arab politicians told refugees that the young people would all be killed. Arab radio announced that this was only the beginning; those who wanted safety from a long war should go to Jordan. Therefore, 325,000 Palestinians ran to Jordan Losses While the Israelis had a stunning win, one that has enabled them to have flowing water, a strategic advantage in the north, and access to the Kotel, 777 men died and 2,586 people were wounded in the war. As
war, the Palestinians became more radical in their Islam. As much as Palestinians differ in the intensity of their worship and observance, they come together, according to Maysoon Zayid, to “fight against Israeli occupation...hijab or not, halal or not.” The Six Day War was “a devastating blow to the credibility of Arab Nationalism,” says Hussein Ibish of the Arab Gulf States Institute. Arab Nationalism at the time claimed to be secular and progressive, leading the region into a bright and modern future. But the “1967 war called this bluff completely.” Despite that the Arabs, with bluster and hubris,
felt that they would naturally and immediately conquer Israel, “the defeat was virtually instantaneous and total.” With this came, in part, a rejection of the secular Muslim movement and a movement toward a more angry and radical Islam. At the same time, the Six Day War made evangelical Christians ecstatic, as “Israel took over the biblical Promised Land and Jerusalem returned to Jewish control after 2,000 years.” The war, to them, was a miracle.
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hile people today like to talk about Israel using terms like “occupation,” The New York Times this week included an editorial by Bret Stephens with the following blistering commentary, “In June 1967 Arab leaders declared their intention to annihilate the Jewish state, and the Jews decided they wouldn’t sit still for it. For the crime of self-preservation, Israel remains a nation unforgiven.” He writes that those who say Israel can give up the territories are talking “a historic nonsense.” He asked the Times readers to “note the following: There would have been no occupation, and no settlements if Egypt and its allies hadn’t recklessly provoked a war. Or if the ‘international community’ hadn’t fecklessly abandoned Israel in its desperate hours. Or if Jordan hadn’t foolishly ignored Israel’s warnings to stay out of it. Or if the Arab League hadn’t arrogantly rejected the possibility of peace.” Or if the land had not been handed to us from yad Hashem.
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Dating Dialogue
What Would You Do If… Moderated by Jennifer Mann, LCSW of The Navidaters
Dear Navidaters,
When the name “Baruch” came up, I was a bit intimated to go out with him. I had heard that his mother was an attorney, his father was a doctor, and he was in medical school. I come from a very different background. My father has a small business and my mother has never worked a day in her life. But his name came up a few times and people seemed to think that we would be very good together, so I decided to give it a shot.
We’ve gone out a few times and Baruch is a really wonderful guy. However, what I’ve since discovered is that his sisters and brothers are all professionals. Every one of them! I did graduate from college, but never went further with my education. I don’t consider myself a stupid person. In fact, I think I’m smart enough. But I’m a creative sort. I love to paint and create and have always loved makeup. To me, a woman’s face is like a canvass and I love to create beautiful looks. So naturally I pursued the career of being a makeup artist. That’s what I do and I love it. However, when Baruch talks about his family and when their lifestyles come up, I feel so small, like I want to crawl under the table. And though I like Baruch very much at this point and he seems to like me as well, I can’t even imagine how I would feel sitting around a table with his family, all of whom are highly educated and successful and all I would have to offer in terms of conversations about work is my knowledge of makeup. It just seems like a disaster waiting to happen, and I will be forever insecure around them. I have heard from some people who know the family well that they are a pleasant enough group and don’t act superior. But I guess it’s more about me and how I feel about myself in contrast to all of them. Mind you, when I’m with my family and friends, I feel full of confidence. So I’m wondering whether going further with Baruch is ultimately not a good idea for me because it could lead to my own permanent state of insecurity and that maybe the best thing to do would be to just end it now. I think it’s a lot to handle and I don’t want to feel like the low man on the totem pole. Am I being over-reactive? Is there a way for me to handle my fears or are my fears valid and I need to find someone from a family that is a better match to my own?
Disclaimer: This column is not intended to diagnose or otherwise conclude resolutions to any questions. Our intention is not to offer any definitive conclusions to any particular question, rather offer areas of exploration for the author and reader. Due to the nature of the column receiving only a short snapshot of an issue, without the benefit of an actual discussion, the panel’s role is to offer a range of possibilities. We hope to open up meaningful dialogue and individual exploration.
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The Panel The Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Faigie Horowitz, M.S.
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t sounds like you and Baruch are foils for one another. Perhaps he is attracted to you because of your warmth and creativity. Whatever it is attracting the two of you to one another, explore it. Go ahead; it’s about what you see in each other, not his family. Yes, you need to get over your lack of confidence and that is going to be a process. It’s not about this specific shidduch possibility. This is about you. Get help and commit to growing in self-confidence and maturity. At the same time, keep going out and see where it goes. Bring up the differences between your families
as the relationship deepens. Discuss what it means to be married to a doctor. Discuss what doctors’ personal lives are like and don’t expect instant answers. Explore the relationship as you deal with your own insecurities. They are not just related to this young man’s family.
The Mother Sarah Schwartz Schreiber, P.A.
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ou guessed it, sweetie. Your question is all about you and your “permanent state of insecurity.” I’ll leave it to the MSW and the therapists on the panel to advise you on how to overcome your insecurity/inferiority complex that
is hampering your dating life and self-actualization. Just a bit of motherly advice. A college degree can open many doors but, sadly, even a doctorate does not guarantee one’s innate intelligence, common sense, or empathy. You and Baruch seem to be getting along just fine in spite of your disparate levels of education. Your connection to Baruch may transcend your respective GPAs; he feels comfortable around you for all the right reasons. It’s time to sit down with him and discuss your insecurity regarding your imagined educational deficits. His response may reassure you that he respects you as a person – graduate degree or not. Ask to meet his parents; they may be more down-to-earth and non-judgmental than you fear.
It just seems like a disaster waiting to happen, and I will be forever insecure around them. Whether or not you continue in this relationship, your work is cut out for you. You’ve stated loud and clear that you derive satisfaction and fulfillment as a makeup artist. It’s up to you to not only “talk the talk” but do the work through
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whatever self-help modality and become a more secure, confident adult. Think about it: Estee Lauder felt at home in Buckingham Palace. Bobbie Brown is a celebrity in her own right. Surely you can find happiness as Dr. Baruch’s talented, creative wife.
Another Shadchan Michelle Mond
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he issue you are grappling with is an inner tension relating to self-confidence more than anything else. Although you can’t judge your unworthiness in their eyes, you feel unworthy in your own eyes. Some call this “Grasshopper Syndrome” – referring to when the Meraglim (spies) “were in (their) own eyes like grasshoppers.” But these are valid feelings: given your own background, this is a new situation for you, as you never had to incorporate yourself in a circle of what our society calls “professionals” (although your dad owning a small business is not too shabby!). Therefore, you don’t know what to expect when you find yourself among people who are uniformly accomplished academically. The main and most reassuring point is that nothing hints to Baruch or his family looking down on you for any reason. It is your own inner voice that is feeding you these insecurities in front of his
professional family. A friend of mine had a similar scenario: she is a semi-professional hobbyist who routinely works with world-famous “stars” in the field of her hobby. She too felt intimated by these people, wondering if she’d be accepted and treated as an equal. She was pleasantly surprised to find that while her star colleagues were proud and happy with their accomplishments in their field, they were just as approachable and down-toearth as anyone with good middos. Today, she is comfortable among her famous friends as she is with her own circle of family and friends. If you and Baruch enjoy each other’s company, it indicates that he appreciates you for everything you are, including your chosen professional and family background. There is so much to you and there are plenty of unique aspects within you which are admirable and fascinating. Just listen to how you talk about what motivated you to become a makeup artist! Perhaps he finds your creative smarts refreshing and likes your path better than he would any doctor or lawyer type. Or maybe he just doesn’t find it an important issue. After all, people routinely marry into families that are professionally different from their own, and, as you expressed, having a professional career doesn’t automatically make people snobs. In order to overcome this obstacle, set aside some “alone time” for mental
Pulling It All Together The Navidaters Dating and Relationship Coaches and Therapists
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he panel is right on target…your job right now is to flex that confidence muscle. Walking into a
room of professionals/ intellectuals (astro-
exercises to reflect and mentally prepare yourself to this new situation. Remind yourself of the reasons Baruch is drawn to you. You will send your insecurities crumbling, eliminate the voice of insecurity, and find a new level of self-confidence overcoming you. You will come to a place where you feel amazing about yourself, your own passions, and goals. Once you reach that point, you will feel comfortable and accepted no matter whose presence you’re in. Hatzlacha!
A college degree can open many doors but, sadly, even a doctorate does not guarantee one’s innate intelligence, common sense, or empathy.
can definitely understand why it could feel intimating thinking about sitting around a table of highly educated people who all have successful careers going for them. Who wouldn’t be? It’s a natural reaction. Just like if you were standing around with people who are all over six-feet tall and you were only five-feet tall. You’d feel different and self-conscious. That’s a kneejerk reaction to being the odd man out. However, that feeling should only be temporary and, frankly, not all that significant once you get past the superficial stuff and allow Baruch’s family to get to know you the person and vice versa. Obviously, Baruch is no slouch, and
he finds you appealing and probably very refreshing, after spending so much time with “book smart” types rather than a creative type such as yourself. Whatever a person’s profession – whether one is a waiter, a mailman or an Indian chief – everyone has the ability to elevate themselves and their profession through the dignity and expertise they bring to whatever they do. You shouldn’t put down your work. Frankly, it’s possible that Baruch’s family is clueless when it comes to looking their best and depend on people like yourself for the most important moments in their lives. Your challenge is to own your talent, feel proud of it, and never feel “less than” anyone else, no matter what their job might be. If you believe in yourself, other people will too. And there’s no reason why you shouldn’t. And when you command yourself with confidence, you send out a vibe that you are worthy.
nauts, NBA players, famous singers… the list goes on and on) can absolutely be intimidating. But intrinsic in your e-mail is your deeply held belief that these professionals are better than you. They are not holding the sign that says, “Makeup Artists under the Table” – you are. You assign
their careers or accomplishments a greater value than your father’s business, your mother’s homemaking, and your makeup artistry. And I have to wonder where you got the idea that because someone went to medical school or law school (or walked on the moon or has millions of dollars etc.) makes them better than you. I have several questions/areas of exploration for you to consider. 1. Does anyone in your fam-
The Single Tova Wein
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It is your own inner voice that is feeding you these insecurities in front of his professional family.
ily share the same concerns? What messages are your parents or siblings sending you about you and Baruch? If your parents are supportive and encouraging and building you up, then there is nothing to look at here. But if people in your family are nervous, uncertain, feeling unsettled, discouraging you, or outright telling you that you are no match for this family, then the issue goes deeper and you should reach out to a therapist right away to begin to separate your thoughts from your parents’. I hope this is not the case, but I couldn’t neglect this point. If you are surrounded by negativity, it becomes natural to feel negatively about circumstances or oneself. 2. Has this insecurity been triggered by other life situations? If yes, this has nothing to do with Baruch and his family or their careers. 3. Are you truly happy/fulfilled with your career? If you are not, then you will be triggered everywhere you go and by everyone you meet. If you are fulfilled and genuinely love being a makeup artist, we move on. 4. I may sound a bit firm right now, but only to make a point. Please consider that with your line of reasoning, another person could view you as closedminded. I’m laughing right now imagining a table of doctors and lawyers around a Shabbos table only talking “shop.” Can you imagine this scene? Let me tell
you the nitty gritty details of this case I was put on, says the attorney. OK, and then I’m going to tell you all about the surgery I performed, says the doctor. And yes, let’s not talk to each other about anything else. After all, we have NO other interests besides our fascinating careers. We really are the greatest people in the universe. No non-doctors or non-attorneys allowed! Are some people this conceded? Unfortunately, yes. But not Baruch’s family! Most evolved and modest people do not lead with their careers. Their goal will be to get to know you and make you comfortable. 5. The fanciest doctor or lawyer goes home at night and wonders what to eat for dinner, just like you do. He has a challenging child. She kicks herself for saying something she regrets. He has a shameful secret. She feels insecure about something or other. My point is that we are all just people. 6. If you were to see a therapist about this issue, you would probably do a little digging to figure out where this is coming from and then create new awarenesses and insights. Being that I don’t know anything about the who, what, where, when, and why, I can only offer you a practical strategy to try to help you. Sometimes the best way to get rid of a negative thought is to… replace it with a positive thought. Take out a notebook and write down everything you love about makeup artistry. When you feel down in the dumps, review this list. The second thing I would like you to do is to start to see doctors and lawyers as regular people. So… you’re going to find a great autobiography or biography of a doctor or attorney. You are going to read about all aspects of this person’s life. If you have any attorney/doctor friends or relatives, I want you to spend casual time with them. My goal is for you to see that they are just people and are so much more than their intellect or careers. (If Baruch wears his stethoscope to the table…that is another sto-
ry! And if his father sleeps in his white coat, run! Ha!) And third, you are going to chant your new mantra morning, noon and night: I am so blessed to love what I do and be good at what I do. Thank you Hashem! And, When I am tuned in to my gratitude, the right people will love me in return. Good luck! Sincerely, Jennifer P.S. – I know many “professional” types who would give anything to make a career out of a passion like cooking, writing or makeup artistry. They feel trapped and filled with regret at never having had the opportunity or the guts to go after what they love. And they have nothing but respect and admiration (and even a little bit of envy) for those who make a career out of it. You are one cool chick! Woman to woman, I really hope you don’t let your insecurity ruin
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a great thing. I think life is presenting you with an opportunity to think better of yourself and grow. So, go to it and grow through it. Are you going to not reach for the stars because you don’t believe you deserve it ? Esther Mann, LCSW and Jennifer Mann, LCSW are licensed psychotherapists and dating and relationship coaches working with individuals, couples and families in private practice in Hewlett, NY. To set up a consultation or to ask questions, please call 516.224.7779. Press 1 for Esther, 2 for Jennifer. Visit www.thenavidaters.com for more information. If you would like to submit a dating or relationship question to the panel anonymously, please email thenavidaters@gmail.com. You can follow The Navidaters on FB and Instagram for dating and relationship advice.
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Dr. Deb
Rejection By Deb Hirschhorn, Ph.D.
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ince my specialty within Marriage and Family Therapy is emotional and verbal abuse and trauma, there’s been an ongoing debate in my head as to what is the “worst” sort of verbal or emotional pain one person can inflict on another. I used to think it was misjudging the other person. The essence of misjudgment is that you think you “get” that other person, but you really don’t. Like the time that Joe decided Suzie didn’t really love or care for him because she never had his dinner ready when he came home. True, they both worked, and this is the 21st century, not the time of Leave It To Beaver (if you remember that time). True, she even said she was exhausted when they got home and she even joked to him, more than once, “I myself could use a wife to prepare me dinner. In fact, I wouldn’t mind if you prepared me dinner, Joe.” But it deeply hurt her when he came out and told her she must not love him. It was furthest from the truth. Being misjudged hurts. But recently, I realized that all forms of abuse – yelling, putdowns, sarcasm, blaming, misjudging, etc. – have one thing in common: they all show rejection. Maybe that is the real reason why we are told that Hashem is a “jealous” G-d and we are not to have idols or other gods: Because that is a rejection of G-d Himself. Rejection is really the worst thing one person can do to another. Joe could argue that he emphatically does not reject Suzie. Why, he will tell you that he even loves her. But, see, who is the “her” that he claims to love? Does he know her if he doesn’t really get her motivations? Does he respect her if he insists
his “interpretation” of her behavior stands above her own explanation of it? Can a person reject another person’s self-disclosure and still respect them? It is as if he made up in his mind a “Suzie” to love, not the real person. Why would he do that? If he listens carefully to her and really tries to understand her, then he may be called upon to open up his own vulnerabilities and truths. This may be so hard for him that creating a fake Suzie is easier. But in the process, the real one is rejected. The same is true for any of the other al chets that we beat our chests for on Yom Kippur. Take latznu, we
According to the Centers For Disease Control, in a 2016 study, the number of suicides of children ten to fourteen has doubled since 2007. There are many reasons, but if you analyze all of them – bullying, fear of school failure, problems with friends – they all come down to rejection. What about that time Suzie was fed up and she yelled at Joe? Do you blame her? Well, actually, that’s dibur peh, something we also ask forgiveness for on Yom Kippur. Why? Isn’t it normal to get fed up? Yes and no. It is, indeed normal, but it isn’t right. If Suzie feels rejected, it certain-
Rejection is really the worst thing one person can do to another. have scorned. Everyone likes to laugh. Laughter is healing and healthy. Except when it is laughter at another person. With one little “joke,” the object of the scorn is rejected, nullified. Bassy, 6, points a finger at her little classmate, Chavi, and says, laughing, “Your dress is so funny.” Is that harmless? Well, to you it might be; you’re an adult who knows the cruel world. But what about little Chavi? She thought she got dressed nicely that morning. And what does a dress have to do with her anyway? Well, it is her dress, her choice. And it seems to her that nothing else about who she is matters. There isn’t even anything else. Scorn is rejection. Not a big deal, right? They’re just little kids and “they’ll learn,” right?
ly won’t fix things for her to push him away with her speech. Now he feels rejected. The problem is not solved; it is deepened. So what should Suzie have done? She can sit down and talk calmly to Joe. She can explain to him how she feels. If he ignores this and it doesn’t seem to penetrate, the probability is that in his own home growing up, feelings were not a topic of conversation. To some people, discussing feelings is “soft” and they’re afraid of not having the strength to handle the pressures of life if they focus on their own. Ironically, such people are like the oak trees that I saw snapped in pieces in various Florida hurricanes: they’re the ones that are not strong enough to handle life’s pressures. This can gen-
tly be brought to his attention. If that doesn’t work, there is always counseling. That’s why many people have my job description. What can little Chavi do? She should tell an adult, and the adult should not say, “Let the kids work it out themselves.” That’s like telling someone to fix my computer who doesn’t know what a computer is. It’s the adult’s job to teach children the tools they need in life. Shabbos, I was watching my granddaughters on the swings. One fell off and a teenage boy who was most likely developmentally delayed laughed at her. As I ran to her to comfort her, I said sternly to the boy, “Don’t laugh when someone else is crying. That’s wrong!” That was enough. He stopped. The worst thing we can do to someone is reject them. Any words, gestures, anger, blame or whatever it is that somehow means they are wrong, defective, deficient, damaged, or inadequate is rejecting. That’s true even if they did something wrong. The key is to learn the fine art of expressing your own feelings about what they did or neglected to do instead of lacing into them. Rejection will make them feel less than. And it will start to shred the bonds of your relationship. Those are not things you want. It’s a trick to show your loved ones love while conveying your disappointment when something they did upsets you. Please check out the video on my website for 3 Keys to a Spectacular Marriage to learn just what to do. Dr. Deb Hirschhorn is a Marriage and Family Therapist. She can be reached at 646-54-DRDEB or by writing drdeb@ drdeb.com.
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Health & F tness
The Healthiest Fish By Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN
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hether dieting or not, fish makes a great meal – both nutritious and delicious. Experts recommend eating fish at least twice a week. What makes fish such a healthy choice? Fish is a great source of lean protein and heart healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory agents that help protect the blood vessels and arteries, thus promoting heart health. Fish is shown to boost brain health, fight heart disease, and have many other great benefits. But here’s the catch: some fish have high mercury levels and eating too much too often can raise the mercury levels in your body. All fish contain trace amounts of mercury. For most people, small amounts of mercury are okay; however, mercury is very dangerous for a fetus and a newborn baby. Therefore, pregnant and nursing women should closely monitor the fish they eat. According to the FDA, pregnant women and children under the age of 6 should not consume fish more than twice a week and should be careful to eat fish that are low in mercury. What are the dangers of mercury? Low mercury levels are normal. But mercury is toxic to the central nervous system and can cause irreversible damage.
The brain of unborn babies and children are especially susceptible, and therefore should be fish containing high amounts of mercury should be limited. The effects of mercury poisoning include cerebral palsy, blindness, deafness, impaired mental functioning, impaired lung function, growth problems, and having a small head. How does mercury get into the fish? First, mercury is released into the air and then settles onto the land and into the water. Bacteria and other microorganisms convert the mercury into methylmercury, the form found in fish. Then, fish in the water to absorb the methylmercury. Fish that eat other fish and that live longer have higher levels of methylmercury. Large fish have more mercury for the simple reason that big fish usually live longer. They have more time to build up higher levels of mercury in their bodies. For example, sharks have very high levels of mercury since they eat a lot of other fish and live a long time.
FISH LOWEST IN MERCURY, WITH THE MOST HEALTH BENEFITS Eat two to three servings a week of the following fish (pregnant women and small children
should not eat more two servings a week): Anchovies Flounder Haddock Herring Mackerel (North Atlantic, Chub) Pollock Salmon Sardines Tilapia Trout Whitefish
Tuna (canned albacore, yellowfin) This isn’t meant to scare you away from eating fish, it’s meant to steer you in the direction. As dangerous as high mercury levels can be, eating fish is very important and very healthy. Like I said, fish is one of the healthiest meals you can eat. Include low mercury fish in your diet two to three times a week to promote a healthy heart, a sharp brain, and a smaller waistline.
FISH WITH MODEST AMOUNTS OF MERCURY Eat six servings or fewer per month (pregnant women and small children should avoid these): Bass Carp Cod (Alaskan) Halibut Perch (freshwater) Snapper Tuna (canned chunk light)
FISH HIGH IN MERCURY Eat three servings or less per month (pregnant women and small children should avoid these): Sea Bass (Chilean) Mackerel (Spanish, Gulf) Sablefish Perch (ocean)
Cindy Weinberger MS, RD, CDN, is a Master’s level Registered Dietitian and Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist. She graduated CUNY Brooklyn College receiving a Bachelor’s in Science and Master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Sciences. Her Dietetic Internship was completed under Brooklyn College primarily in Ditmas Park Care Center and Boro Park Center where she developed clinical and education skills to treat patients with comprehensive nutrition care. She is currently a dietitian at Boro Park Center and a private nutrition consultant. She can be reached at CindyWeinberger1@gmail.com.
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Health & F tness
Why Summer Camp is a Must By Hylton I Lightman, MD, DCH (SA), FAAP
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hild development professionals recognize the camp experience – whether it’s day camp or overnight camp – as valuable in helping children to mature socially, emotionally, intellectually, morally and physically. Psychologist and educator Dr. Peter Scales of the Search Institute says, “Camp is one of the few institutions where young people can experience and satisfy their need for physical activity, creative expression and true participation in a community environment.” Camp can be a “deal breaker” in a child’s life because the reality is most schools don’t satisfy all these needs. Camp alumni share stories of meaningful friendships and lessons on getting along with others. Somehow, camp provides the perfect environment for children to take social risks. Interestingly, kids don’t go to summer camp to learn how to become leaders. They want to have fun. The positive outcomes happen as a result. How can your child benefit from camp? 1. Kids learn teamwork at camp. The team means working together for the benefit of something bigger than “Me.” Kids invest in the team whereby they learn that their relationships benefit from their investment. And when the team benefits, then individual relationships are for-
tified. When a child contributes to the group’s success, he is (almost) automatically empowered in a positive way. In other words, when you work with others to complete an activity, you build bonds. Kids will learn to have some voice within the group to become persuasive. 2. Camp provides children with a “blank slate,” allowing them to reinvent themselves. Kids often attend the same school year after year with the same group of peers, which can lead to being “labelled”
camp choir? The camp situation helps her to put herself out there to endeavor and experience something beyond her comfort zone. 4. Children learn resilience in the camp environment. Like life, camp is filled with situations where children fall. They have to learn how to pick themselves up, dust themselves off and move on. Think: Ropes course. Most camps have one. Most home backyards do not. Few kids arrive in camp knowing how to perfectly navigate the ropes course.
When they complete a task once deemed impossible, their self-confidence soars.
and “stuck” with a particular perception. For example, a quiet, studious “nerd” in school can become the camp’s powerhouse with quite the set of lungs and legs on the playing field. By being in a different environment and shuffling up the social mix, children can build confidence. And the brief passing of time of a camp session cuts the costs of making mistakes. 3. Camps are set up for kids to learn new things. Your daughter may not have the best singing voice but who cares when she’s part of the
They’ll fall, yet they go on. Confidence builds. And when they complete a task once deemed impossible, their self-confidence soars. 5. Camps are also great for kids learning to make decisions. Mom and Dad are home or wherever and Junior has to navigate the shoals independently. Hopefully (and prayfully), the counselors and others available to guide decisions will help him to expand his horizons. And he can feel good about healthy decisions. These invaluable skills often
translate into improvements at home and at school. They will contribute to a child’s overall “Emotional Quotient” which is important to helping them succeed throughout life. An overriding benefit of camp is unplugging from technology. Most ban the use of electronics. The camp’s daily routine of getting lots of physical activity, spending time outdoors, and eating regular meals can bring kids far down the path of optimal development. Years ago, I spent several summers as the physician at Camps Bnos and Aguda in Upstate New York. I was struck by how the kids were on their feet a good part of the day, even just walking across camp grounds for meals. We didn’t force kids to spend 20 minutes daily on an elliptical. Rather, they were eased into a lifestyle of activity that including walking, team sports, swimming and playing outdoors with other kids. They also learned how to think outside the proverbial box and found innate talents that hitherto had been latent and even nonexistent. I believe in camp and its potential to affect wonderful things for people. And yet, I add, proceed with caution. It’s not a simple thing just to hand over your child to a camp for 4-8 weeks. First, make sure that there’s a good fit between your child and
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camp. If your son is not a learner, then don’t send him to a camp for masmids. And if your daughter loves drama, make sure the camp has an appropriate outlet for her. Speak to you children about how camp differs from school. This is an especially important conversation for kids going to overnight camp. Homesickness may or may not happen. If it does, it’s normal to miss Mom, Dad, siblings and home. But there are so many wonderful parts to camp and speak about those in advance. Does your child have any medical conditions or needs medications? This is not the time to withhold information. You must be upfront and honest with the camp. Follow the camp’s guidelines regarding how medications are to come to camp and, if the camp says so, must be prepackaged by specific pharmacies. It may not be easy for your child to leave his bunk to go to the infirmary. At a minimum, it will help to assure a better camp expe-
rience. And staying compliant with meds and following the camp’s protocol may save his life. Often, the camp form will have a “Confidential” section. Feel free to speak to the nurse privately about personal and confidential matters. It is foolish, for example, not to mention seizure medications because the camper needs to be watched during swimming. Assure that your child is physically safe. Yes, this includes the quality of the swim program and the camp’s having an infirmary or some kind of emergency intervention available, if needed. You – Mom and Dad – must speak to your children about touching. No one is allowed to touch your child “down there” or inappropriately in camp or anywhere for that matter. Find out whether your child’s camp has a protocol or workflow in place if such deviant behaviors rear their ugly heads. What will the camp do? One frum camp had a situation in recent years which, to the credit of the camp’s di-
rector and the administration he put together, was dealt with swiftly. As a parent, there are many things you can’t do for your children. You cannot give your child confidence. You can’t choose or manage his or her friendships. You can’t always be his advocate/agent/ manager/coach. Most parents can’t get their children to turn off electronics, especially in the summer, and most important, parents have a hard time urging their children to take psychological risks. Camps do all of these things brilliantly. Counselors often present challenges to which younger children rise. Living in a cabin 24/7 with kids you like and kids you don’t builds self-control. Making a team for whatever purpose, helping to shlep bags and boxes across camp grounds, trying new foods and overcoming homesickness – that’s independence! We parents cannot give true independence to our kids. But we can help set them on the path so our children live it on their own.
Dr. Hylton I. Lightman is a senior statesman amongst pediatricians, an internationally-recognized authority and diagnostician, a public speaker, expert witness and go-to resource for health issues in the Orthodox Jewish community.
Originally from South Africa, Dr. Lightman is a board-certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP). He is also a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine. In addition, he is actively involved in teaching pediatric and family nurse practitioners through Columbia University, Pace University, Lehmann College, and Molloy College, as well as mentoring physician assistants through Touro College. You may reach Dr. Lightman at drlightman@totalfamilycaremd.com.
• Focus on the complete person • Seminary Credits accepted in major • Stimulating and challenging courses universities that speak to the heart and mind • Extracurricular Programs under direction • Warm atmosphere with expert of Mrs. Yocheved Shonek mechanchim and mechanchos
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Home Run!
R’ Yitzie Ross of the Five Towns Little League Talks Teams, the Secret to Winning, and Good Sportsmanship
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s baseball season is coming to an end, we sat down with Rabbi Yitzie Ross, a rebbe in Yeshiva of South Shore and wellknown parenting advisor at www. Yidparenting.com. As one of the three commissioners in our community’s baseball little league, we wanted to find out from him more about the league, baseball and our budding players. It seems that the baseball league has been extremely successful this season. Congratulations on a job well done. What has the league done differently? First of all, thank you. The other two commissioners and I have really put in hundreds of hours of work to ensure that the kids have a great time in a fun and structured environment. As to what we’ve done differently, the answer is: everything. Unified jerseys and caps, easy online access, advanced scheduling, and simple communication are just small parts of the changes we’ve implemented.
Did the rating system the league instituted this year work? It certainly did. If there are this many teams in the running for the playoff spots, it must have worked. What about the few teams that are not doing well? Statistically speaking, there will always be teams that play better than others. The teams that are not doing well usually have pre-existing issues. For example, one team lost their top-rated player the day before the season. A different team had their top player break his arm. These situations can really affect the way a team plays. As any coach will tell you, one strong player can change the dynamics of the team. However, this year we did whatever possible to ensure that we offered help to those teams that had little or no wins. We added strong players and even ran practices for certain teams during the week. However, even this doesn’t always help. No child likes to lose every game, and it’s so frustrating. However, that’s unfortunately a part of every league.
My son lost his first five games. I understood he was frustrated, but told him he needs to continue to play the best he can. Hopefully, next season, he’ll have more wins. It seems the shuls are not part of the league anymore. Why is that? Many years ago, there were only 3 or 4 main shuls in the league. Each shul had numerous teams in each grade and kept the teams fair. Baruch Hashem our community grew tremendously, and many more smaller shuls joined the league. As a result, three problems emerged. Since there were some grades that needed extra players in a shul, they began to “recruit” players (i.e., “ringers”). As a result, some shuls began to create super-teams that would demolish the other teams in that age group. Therefore, many teams never won a game the entire season. Since these shuls did not have official youth departments, many teams didn’t get jerseys, caps, or equipment. In many instances, there were no designated coaches and no
one to talk to if there was an issue. If a team was late or a field needed to be changed, there was no way to communicate and adjust accordingly. Many parents had difficulty signing their children up, since their shuls did not participate in little league. I had a mother cry to me that since her children were not athletic, they couldn’t find a shul team that would take them. Together, we came up with a way of fixing these issues to enable greater fairness, communication and equal access to the league. While it’s true that shul teams were removed from the equation, most parents have been thrilled with the results. Why is that? For starters, the team are fairer. Last year, after the fifth game, there were 14 undefeated teams in the league and there were 12 teams that were winless. This season, after five games, we had one undefeated team in the entire league and two teams that were winless. For you statisticians out there, the 1st place team in the 2nd grade has an average of +/-
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1.00 runs per game. That’s amazing. Many parents complained that the cost of participating in the league went up. Did it? As we discussed earlier, this used to be a shul league. Therefore, every shul charged whatever they wanted, (anywhere from $75 to $200), and bought the equipment themselves. However, some teams were underequipped, and many teams never even had jerseys. To put fees in perspective, Flag Football is $225. Five Towns Basketball is $295. The Hockey league is $250. These are all wonderful community leagues that the kids love. Our baseball league is $175, and includes a professional jersey, cap, trophies, medals, special rewards, and almost all the equipment, umpires and fields required to play. Additionally, thanks to some amazing sponsors, we gave out almost 200 partial, or full, scholarships this season! How are the coaches reacting to the changes you implemented? I think we need to take a step back first and give credit where credit is due. These coaches spend time and effort putting in work with other people’s children. All of us, and everyone in the league, should have tremendous hakoras hatov to these coaches for their efforts. To answer your question, the good coaches were the ones who were the most annoyed. They had spent many years teaching children how to field and hit, and all of a sudden they had a group of new players. However, after speaking to them privately, they understood the
issues, and recognized that the pros outweighed the cons. Some of them were handed strong teams, and they are doing well, and others have weaker teams and are making the best of the situation. Interestingly enough, one mother whose son is on a losing team shared an interesting thought with me. She said, “I would rather have Yaakov Friedman (one of our
parents yelling and, unfortunately, making a chillul Hashem. A large part of the problem was that when you have a close group of friends together from one shul, they tend to feed off each other. This can easily get out of hand. One mother told me that this season it’s much easier to sit and talk with other parents on any given team. The atmosphere is more
The three secrets to being a better baseball player are practice, practice and practice!
coaches) as my son’s coach on this losing team, than have a bad coach and be on a winning team.” She clearly understood that a great coach is also an amazing and rewarding part of the game. That’s wonderful. Is this typical? Well, most parents obviously want their kids to enjoy the feeling of winning the game. However, certain coaches not only give the kids fundamentals, but also create camaraderie and team spirit among the players. There’s nothing like an amazing and dedicated coach. Would you say the games are more competitive than in the past? Actually, I would say the opposite. The games are far less competitive and so much more fun. We used to hear crazy stories about players and
relaxed and everyone seems to be having a good time. How about the kids who aren’t so athletic? Do they still gain? Absolutely. No one is excluded from the league based on skill level. This doesn’t mean it’s okay for a father to leave everything up to the coach. One of the issues that we’re constantly addressing is children who don’t know how to play or don’t even have a desire to play. While a great coach can enhance a child’s skillset, it’s really a parent’s job to introduce and teach their child the basic fundamentals. Charles Levine, one of our excellent coaches, once told me, “Almost every child can learn how to swing a bat and stop a ball. Some just require more time than others.” I heard that the league has a dvar halacha at the games. What’s that about?
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Before every game, we send out a short dvar halacha to all of the coaches. During the games, we randomly stop kids and ask them the halacha. If the player knows it, his entire team gets a $2 Season Express card. We’ve handed out over 700 cards this season. We just want to make sure all the players know that that even when playing baseball, Torah is on our minds. On Monday a few weeks ago, a second grader from YDT met me on Central Avenue and said, “You’re the dvar halacha man, right?” He then began telling me the halacha for that week. How much time does running the league take? Are you three being compensated? Since we began in mid-February, we’ve spent hundreds of hours on it. I alone have responded to over 4,000 emails and made hundreds of phone calls to parents, coaches and the other commissioners. Additionally, we had to lay out a lot of money before the season began to cover the insurance, reserve the fields, and more. We are not getting paid or compensated financially for this. Our goal was to strengthen the league and to ensure its success so that our children could have a great time. The other two commissioners are more “behind the scenes”? Is this intentional? I would assume it’s because they’re smarter than I am. Seriously speaking, I can’t watch my own children playing a baseball game on Sunday without parents coming over to “share” with me what they think would be a better way to run the
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league. In any case, the three of us talk frequently and vote on any issue together. People were wondering why the league was so secretive initially. Well, if people would have known what we were doing, it would have been more difficult to get anything accomplished. Once the season began, we began introducing ourselves. What’s the best part of running this league? Watching the end of a close game. There’s nothing like watching two teams with identical uniforms in different colors (with special thanks to Lani White of icatchgraphix.com) playing in a one-run game. The coaches are completely focused on the game. There’s a fly ball to left field, and the outfielder makes the catch! Both teams line up, say “good game” to each other, and thank the umpire. It’s all worth it!
What’s the worst part? This past Sunday, I left my son’s game to walk around and make sure every team in Lawrence Middle School had Clinchers or T-balls. As I walked with my 9-year-old son and a talmid of mine, we came across a game in progress. One of the mothers, who has a son on a losing team, saw me and whispered loudly to another parent, “I can’t even look at him!” This particular mother has
Wow. That’s so sad. To be fair, most parents and kids have tremendous hakoras hatov to us and the coaches. We’ve received hundreds of beautiful emails telling us how happy the kids are and how thankful everyone is. We, in turn, have tremendous gratitude to the hundreds of parents that drive their children to the games and spend hours watching them play. We have hakoras hatov to the coaches, the district, and the umpires. Nassau
Rabbi Yitzie Ross with his four sons
not stopped complaining that her son’s team only won two games. I ignored the comment, but my son was confused. “Why is she upset at you?” How do I explain to a 9-year-old that a mother, instead of being grateful for the hard work we’re putting in, is annoyed with me because her son’s team is losing?
you let everyone play? We have almost 500 kids waiting for a spot. First of all, it would mess up the standings if teams joined in the middle of the season. Second of all, we would have odd amounts of teams. In a 7 or 8-week season, you can’t have “bye” weeks. Lastly, the teams would not be fair. They’ll sign up earlier next time and be able to join the league. Are the rumors about a fall league true? Possibly. I have no clue how you get all this information. I think one of the commissioners has a leak.
County, under the direction of its Executive, Ed Mangano, has gone out of its way to help us succeed by getting us fields, permits and more. This is a community league and we are thrilled that so many people are involved.
Any last thoughts you want to share with everyone? The three secrets to being a better baseball player are practice, practice and practice!
Apparently, there is a waiting list for this season; why didn’t
R’ Yitzie, thank you for your time!
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In The K
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tchen
Vietnamese Coconut-Poached Chicken and Rice Noodle Salad
Ingredients Chicken 2 chicken breast fillets 1-2 inch ginger, thinly sliced 1 stalk lemongrass, very thinly sliced 14 oz. can coconut milk
Dressing By Naomi Nachman
I am super-excited about my upcoming trip to Asia this summer on Miriam’s Legacy Kosher Tours. In preparation for this trip, I have been working on some Asian-themed recipes with incredible flavor combinations. I have shared a few of these already here in The Jewish Home. This recipe is the latest in my repertoire which I am delighted to share with you. I have always been a big fan of coconut and rice noodles. If you don’t like coconut, just poach the chicken in broth with the other ingredients. Rice pasta is gluten-free so people who are gluten intolerant can eat it too. This “pasta” salad is a perfect summer salad or main dish for Shabbat lunch. Cook’s note: The longer the noodles are in the marinade, the darker they get
4 TBS lime juice 4 TBS brown sugar 2 TBS soy sauce 2 TBS rice vinegar 1-2 limes’ zest
Noodles 1 pkg rice stick noodles, prepared according to package 1 carrot, peeled, cut into matchsticks 1 head Chinese cabbage finely shredded 1 cup bean sprouts 1 cup cilantro leaves finely chopped ¼ cup mint leaves ½ cup salted roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped (optional)
Preparation Prepare the chicken: Combine the chicken, ginger, lemon grass and coconut milk in a medium size saucepan on medium heat. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook, turning occasionally, for 10 minutes or until chicken is just cooked through. Cool and shred chicken. Prepare the dressing: Combine the lime juice, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar and zest in a small bowl. Set aside. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl place the noodles, cabbage, carrot, bean sprouts, cilantro, and mint. Drizzle with dressing and toss to combine. Lay chicken on top of pasta and sprinkle with peanuts.
Naomi Nachman, the owner of The Aussie Gourmet, caters weekly and Shabbat/ Yom Tov meals for families and individuals within The Five Towns and neighboring communities, with a specialty in Pesach catering. Naomi is a contributing editor to this paper and also produces and hosts her own weekly radio show on the Nachum Segal Network stream called “A Table for Two with Naomi Nachman.” Naomi gives cooking presentations for organizations and private groups throughout the New York/New Jersey Metropolitan area. In addition, Naomi has been a guest host on the QVC TV network and has been featured in cookbooks, magazines as well as other media covering topics related to cuisine preparation and personal chefs. To obtain additional recipes, join The Aussie Gourmet on Facebook or visit Naomi’s blog. Naomi can be reached through her website, www.theaussiegourmet.com or at (516) 295-9669.
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Notable Quotes “Say What?!”
A college student in Florida is accused of breaking into a building and changing his grade from an “F” to a “B.” His parents were like, “Really? You can’t even get an ‘A’ when you’re cheating?” – Jimmy Fallon
A sitting president of the United States and his grown children and the first lady are personally trying to ruin my life forever.
The accidental war and stunning victory also made the Israelis occupiers. - From a New York Times article, rewriting history and referring to the Six Day War as accidental even though Israel’s enemies prepared for a full three years for the war and were set to simultaneously attack Israel from all sides
Nothing, I keep other people awake at night. - Secretary of Defense James Mattis when asked on CBS’s “Face The Nation,” “What keeps you up at night?”
I went on CNN yesterday … for 16 minutes. 16 minutes. For 16 minutes, the host wanted to talk about the president’s tweets. There are 7 people dead in the UK – our close allies – 48 in the hospital, half in intensive care, and the media wants to talk about a tweet? It is just an “Alice in Wonderland” reality. -Trump advisor, Sebastian Gorka, highlighting the absurdity of the media, in an interview with NewsMax
- Kathy Griffin, who recently released a photo of herself holding a mask that looked like President Trump’s bloody severed head, at a press conference, after she lost her job at CNN because of the backlash
I’m not afraid of Donald Trump. He’s a bully. I’ve dealt with older white guys trying to keep me down my whole life, my whole career.Ibid.
I’m going to be a terrorist. –Youssef Zaghba, one of the three Islamic terrorists who carried out the attack in London last week, to security when he was questioned at an Italian airport last year
Jared’s actually become much more famous than me. I’m a little bit upset about that. – President Trump poking fun at Jared Kushner during a meeting with Congressional leadership
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I get the nomination, so I’m now the nominee of the Democratic Party. I inherit nothing from the Democratic Party. I mean, it was bankrupt. It was on the verge of insolvency. Its data was mediocre to poor, non-existent, wrong. I had to inject money into it. - One of several excuses Hillary Clinton gave last week for losing the 2016 elections
DNC data folks: today’s accusations are [baloney] and I hope you understand the good you did despite that nonsense.
- Angry tweet by Andrew Therriault, the former director of data science for the Democratic National Committee, in response to Hillary’s claims
To all scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, responsible citizens who were disappointed by the decision of the president of the United States, I want to say that they will find in France a second homeland. I call on them: come and work here with us. – French President Emmanuel Macron after President Trump pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement
What are we doing? - Golfer Tiger Woods to police officers giving him a field sobriety test before his DUI arrest on Memorial Day
I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris. – President Trump while announcing that the U.S. is withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement
Am departing presidential councils. Climate change is real. Leaving Paris is not good for America or the world. - Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeting that he will no longer be part of the president’s business council since he pulled out of the Paris Accord
In support of Paris, CA billionaires pledge to never again fly private, will only fly commercial. J/K – will quit symbolic councils instead. – Sen. Ted Cruz response tweet to Elon Musk
Great news for scientists – you no longer have to be a radical Islamic extremist to be welcomed into France. You can also get in if you are a scientist. – Mark Stein
Today, President Trump had lunch with French President
Emmanuel Macron, who was just sworn in 11 days ago. Trump was like, “Well, 11 days, you must be on your, like, 50th scandal by now?” – Jimmy Fallon
Mr. Kushner, an observant Jew, spent the Sabbath in fretful seclusion with his wife, Ivanka Trump, at his father-in-law’s resort in Bedminster, N.J., unplugged, per religious custom, from electronics. – From a New York Times article purporting to paint a picture of Jared Kushner’s anxiety-ridden Shabbos, after it was disclosed that he had backchannels with Russia.
This … paragraph raises the obvious question: Who, among Kushner’s associates, is both intimate enough to see his demeanor while “secluded” on Shabbat — and also two-faced enough to share that information with Times’ reporters for an obvious hit piece. – Breitbart.com, pointing out just how pathetic The New York Times reporting has become
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Exchange between the moderator and Hillary Clinton at the Recode convention in Palo Alto, California
Moderator: Goldman Sachs… You knew you were going on run for president or you thought might, or probably, you were thinking about it. You had to be thinking about it as a possibility. Why did you do those [speeches]? Hillary: Why do you have Goldman Sachs here? Moderator: Because they pay us. Hillary: They paid me. Moderator: I know they paid you and they paid you a lot. Hillary: Yes. Moderator: You’re not somebody who needed that money for the next week’s shopping and you knew you might have run. So why do it? Hillary: Well, I gave speeches to many, many groups. I spoke to camp counselors, I spoke to health care executives. I spoke to just a wide range of groups. And not just in the United States, particularly in Canada
At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is “no reason to be alarmed!” – Tweet by President Trump after London terror attack
Do you notice we are not having a gun debate right now? That’s because they used knives and a truck!
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– Ibid.
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My handshake with him, it’s not innocent. It’s not the alpha and the omega of politics, but a moment of truth. – French President Emmanuel Macron talking to the Journal du Dimanche about his now infamous handshake with President Trump when he squeezed Trump’s hand tightly for an extended period of time
Bill Maher is one of the good guys in this fight against Trump right now. - Joy Behar, co-host of “The View,” urging people to give Bill Maher a pass for using a racial term for blacks, since he is a “fellow Trump-basher”
It’s easier to say that it’s not our [U.S. Democrats’] fault, but Russians’ fault, to say “that they interfered with the elections.”... It reminds me of anti-Semitism, when everything is Jews’ fault. Someone is a mutt, can’t do a thing, but the Jews are to be blamed. But we know where such an attitude leads to, it never ends well. - Russian President Vladimir Putin at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum when asked about the allegation that Russia interfered in the U.S. elections
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Political Crossfire
To Die for Estonia? By Charles Krauthammer
S
o what if, in his speech last week to NATO, Donald Trump didn’t explicitly reaffirm the provision that an attack on one is an attack on all? What’s the big deal? Didn’t he affirm a general commitment to NATO during his visit? Hadn’t he earlier sent his vice president and secretaries of state and defense to pledge allegiance to Article 5? And anyway, who believes that the United States would really go to war with Russia – and risk nuclear annihilation – over Estonia? Ah, but that’s precisely the point. It is because deterrence is so delicate, so problematic, so literally unbelievable that it is not to be trifled with. And why for an American president to gratuitously undermine what little credibility deterrence already has, by ostentatiously refusing to recommit to Article 5, is so shocking. Deterrence is inherently a barely believable bluff. Even at the height of the Cold War, when highly resolute presidents, such as Eisenhower and Kennedy, threatened Russia with “massive retaliation” (i.e., all-out nuclear war), would we really have sacrificed New York for Berlin? No one knew for sure. Not Eisenhower, not Kennedy, not the Soviets, not anyone. Yet that very uncertainty was enough to stay the hand of any aggressor and keep the peace of the world for 70 years. Deterrence does not depend on 100 percent certainty that the oth-
er guy will go to war if you cross a red line. Given the stakes, merely a chance of that happening can be enough. For 70 years, it was enough. Leaders therefore do everything they can to bolster it. Install tripwires, for example. During the Cold War, we stationed troops in Germany to face the massive tank armies of Soviet Russia. Today we have 28,000 troops in South Korea, 12,000 near the demilitarized zone. Why? Not to repel invasion. They
our deterrent pledge to NATO. Until Trump. His omission was all the more damaging because of his personal history. This is a man chronically disdainful of NATO. He campaigned on its obsolescence. His inaugural address denounced American allies as cunning parasites living off American wealth and generosity. One of Trump’s top outside advisers, Newt Gingrich, says that “Estonia is in the suburbs of St. Petersburg,” as if Rus-
That very uncertainty was enough to stay the hand of any aggressor and keep the peace of the world for 70 years.
couldn’t. They’re not strong enough. To put it very coldly, they’re there to die. They’re a deliberate message to the enemy that if you invade our ally, you will have to kill a lot of Americans first. Which will galvanize us into full-scale war against you. Tripwires are risky, dangerous and cynical. Yet we resort to them because parchment promises are problematic and tripwires imply automaticity. We do what we can to strengthen deterrence. Rhetorically as well. Which is why presidents from Truman on have regularly and powerfully reaffirmed
sian designs on the Baltic states are not at all unreasonable. Moreover, Trump devoted much of that very same speech, the highlight of his first presidential trip to NATO, to berating the allies for not paying their fair share. Nothing particularly wrong with that, or new – half a century ago Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield was so offended by NATO free riding that he called for major reductions of U.S. troops in Europe. That’s an American perennial. But if you’re going to berate, at least reassure as well. Especially given ris-
ing Russian threats and aggression. Especially given that Trump’s speech was teed up precisely for such reassurance. An administration official had spread the word that he would use the speech to endorse Article 5. And it was delivered at a ceremony honoring the first and only invocation of Article 5 – ironically enough, by the allies in support of America after 9/11. And yet Trump deliberately, defiantly refused to simply say it: America will always honor its commitment under Article 5. It’s not that, had Trump said the magic words, everyone would have 100 percent confidence we would strike back if Russia were to infiltrate little green men into Estonia, as it did in Crimea. But Trump’s refusal to utter those words does lower whatever probability Vladimir Putin might attach to America responding with any seriousness to Russian aggression against a NATO ally. Angela Merkel said Sunday (without mentioning his name) that after Trump’s visit it is clear that Europe can no longer rely on others. It’s not that yesterday Europe could fully rely – and today it cannot rely at all. It’s simply that the American deterrent has been weakened. And deterrence weakened is an invitation to instability, miscalculation, provocation and worse. And for what? (c) 2017, The Washington Post Writers Group
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Good Hum r
Salmon Sandwich By Jon Kranz
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ew things sound more Jewish than bagels and lox. For many, the phrase “bagels and lox” sounds more Jewish than matzah ball soup, Hava Nagila or Steven Spielberg. Of course, there are plenty of things that sound Jewish even though they are not. A Jew’s harp is a musical instrument but, despite its name, it actually is not Jewish. (I’m not kidding.) Anyway, a “Jew’s harp” sounds more like a Jewish mother who keeps bringing up the same topic over and over again. Bagels and lox, however, don’t just sound Jewish – they actually have Jewish connections. The word “bagel” derives from the German “beugel,” which means ring or bracelet, and some scholars believe that in the 1600s the bagel was given by Jewish husbands to their wives as a gift for childbirth. Nowadays, a husband would have to be completely insane to give his wife a bagel as a gift for childbirth or for any other occasion. If a husband does so, he should know that she’ll get angry faster than he can say baker’s dozen. Lox also has some Jewish connections. The word “lox” derives from the German “lachs” and the Yiddish “laks,” both of which mean salmon. Jews in Europe, beginning in Medieval times, elected to brine salmon and turn it into lox in order to make it last longer. Of course, there are things that Jews would not want to last longer, including slavery in Egypt, Cous-
in Yankel’s speech, and bar mitzvah lessons. Admittedly, the edible glue that holds our bagels and lox together – the incomparable cream cheese – is not a purely Jewish creation. But it still is vital to the trio, creating a deli-
stapled to your head. (Am I the only kid whose parents did this?) One thing I find strange is that bagels go swimmingly with fish but not with meat. While bagels and lox are ubiquitous, bagels and brisket are not. In fact, if you walk into a kosher
I once considered opening a bagel shop but investors told me that they wouldn’t put a dime or even “pumpernickel” into such a venture.
cious three-part harmony. One could argue that bagels, lox and cream cheese are the Crosby, Stills and Nash of Jewish cuisine. (Yes, adding a slice of tomato or onion would be the Neil Young.) Scholars agree that we will never know the identity of the first Jew to slap salmon on a hole-y roll or the motivation for the combination. This is unfortunate but, then again, we also don’t know which Jew deserves credit for creating chopped liver. (I’m sure the creator felt slighted by the lack of credit and constantly complained: “What am I, chopped liver?”) We also don’t know which Jew to thank for creating the kippah clip but it certainly beats having a kippah
delicatessen and order pastrami on poppy, you will be laughed at. (For the record, you also will be laughed at if you order corned beef on the cob.) I do have one important question about bagels. If we refer to full-loaded bagels as “everything” bagels, why don’t we refer to plain bagels as “nothing” bagels? I think it’s because plain bagels would be way too offended, which I fully understand. How would you like to be told every single day that “you’re nothing”? (Yes, that is the story of my childhood.) As it is, our bagels suffer enough humiliation from the new trend of “scooping.” When you ask for a bagel to be scooped, the plump and insecure bagel totally takes it the wrong
way. The bagel thinks you are really asking: “Can you please slim down that fat bloated beast?” If you then ask for thinly cut lox, the chubby bagels become even more self-conscious. Bagels also are traumatized whenever a bakery sells day-old bagels at a drastically reduced price. Isn’t it bad enough that bagels are made in the shape of a zero? If a bagel looks like and then is treated like a zero, how can it possibly have any self-worth? (Yes, the doughnut suffers similarly.) If you want to learn more about this issue, stayed tuned for the upcoming documentary titled, “Shelf Life: A Stale Tale.” I once considered opening a bagel shop but investors told me that they wouldn’t put a dime or even “pumpernickel” into such a venture. I was devastated and my friends had a tough time (cinnamon) “raisin” my spirits. I actually became very resentful and bitter about bagels. You could say that I became “sourdough” and, with respect sesame and poppy bagels, I developed a deep-“seeded” hatred. Bottom line: I’m now so anti-bagel that I may start spreading my cream cheese on something other than a bagel and I may even try to convince others to do the same. I’m calling it my “Schmear” Campaign. Jon Kranz is an attorney living in Englewood, New Jersey. Send any comments, questions or insults to jkranz285@gmail. com.
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
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Forgotten Her es
75 Years since the Battle of Midway By Avi Heiligman
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his past week marks 75 years since the battle that is widely considered the turning point of the war in the Pacific. However, the fight for Midway began much earlier and was fought in ways the world had never seen. Intelligence played a huge part in the battle – a fact that the Japanese did not realize until it was too late – and the surface ships never fired at one another. It was a strange naval battle for both navies but the Americans quickly adapted (a rarity during WWII) and were able to deliver a devastating blow to Japanese forces. From Pearl Harbor to the Battle of the Coral Sea in early May 1942 the Allies couldn’t check the Japanese advance anywhere. In April the Americans launched a surprise attack of land-based bombers that only strengthened the Japanese resolve to conquer the rest of the Pacific. They thought the Americans had a secret base somewhere, and they were determined to prevent another attack on their capital. In reality, the American bombers had been launched from an aircraft carrier which was kept a secret until the end
of the war. At the Battle of the Coral Sea the Japanese thought they had sunk two carriers and the Americans had no battleships available since the attack on Pearl Harbor. They were right about the battleships but the carrier USS Yorktown was still afloat – barely. She made an emergency trip to Pearl Harbor for repairs, and 72 hours later was steaming to join the rest of the U.S. fleet near Midway. Admiral Chester Nimitz knew from intelligence that the Japanese were planning another attack and had the Yorktown join the carriers USS Hornet and the USS Enterprise in making a beeline for Midway. Midway was a remote island that served as a seaplane base as well as a refueling station for airliners and ships. The Japanese were led by the planner of the Pearl Harbor raid, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto. His plan, called Operation Mai, was extremely complex and it included several naval forces coming from a multitude of directions. One force consisted of his carriers, another with the actual landing forces, a
third with the submarines, and then a main battle force with the largest battleship afloat, the Yamato. Yet another task force was sent as a diversionary tactic for an operation to be launched before the Midway attack. This part of the operation was to land troops on three of the Aleutian Islands off the coast of Alaska. The Aleutian part of the plan was to draw the American ships to that area while Midway, the Japanese main target, was invaded. Yamamoto was expecting the Americans to fall into this trap. The Hornet and the Enterprise would be destroyed trying to fight off the overwhelming Japanese forces. But there were some major flaws in the plan. Firstly, the Americans had broken the Japanese naval code and discovered that Midway was to be the focal point of the attack. Captain Joseph Rochefort had a team of cryptanalysts in Pearl Harbor who had broken the Japanese naval code (more on this story in a future article). Nimitz knew where and approximately when the Japanese would strike as well as the composition of their forces. Secondly, the Japanese
ships were coming into battle in many units and they were forgetting a tactical piece of strategy in naval warfare – strength in concentrated numbers will have a major advantage over an enemy who throws in their units piecemeal. Thirdly, two of the Japanese carriers, the Shokaku and the Zuikaku, were being repaired and did not join in the attack. Had they had waited about a month the Japanese would have had six carriers instead of four and the results probably would have been very different. Lastly, the Yorktown was ready to fight despite Japanese intelligence telling them otherwise. In total, the Japanese also had four carriers, two battleships, two heavy and one light cruiser, and 248 aircraft. The Americans had 233 planes on their carriers and another 127 aircraft based on Midway. However, many of the American planes were outdated and were outclassed by the Japanese fighter planes. What the Americans did have was surprise. The Japanese weren’t expecting much resistance and if there were any American ships in the area they would be notified by sub-
The Jewish Home | JUNE 8, 2017
marines patrolling from Midway to Pearl Harbor. However, the Americans left before the subs were in place and were able to set up an ambush against the Japanese carriers. At 12:30 PM on June 3, the battle began with nine American B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bombers attacking the transport and landing group, although they didn’t score any hits. The next morning, an American Catalina flying boat scored a torpedo hit on a Japanese tanker. Early on June 4, Japanese bombers, torpedo planes and fighters took off to bomb Midway Island installations. They started their attack at about 6:20 AM. Defending U.S. Marine Corps Brewster Buffalo and Grumman F4F Wildcat fighters suffered disastrous losses in the first minutes of the battle and the Japanese inflicted major damage to the facilities on Midway. Motor Torpedo Boat PT-25 was also damaged by strafing in Midway lagoon. However, a third of the Japanese planes were destroyed and Midway’s airfield was still functioning. If the Japanese were to continue with their plan to land troops on June 7 they would need to bomb Midway again. While that attack was taking place, all available planes on Midway had taken off and were headed toward the Japanese carriers. They found them but suffered several losses while causing no damage on the ships. After this attack, the Japanese began to recover their planes and starting rearming them on the carriers when word came in from a
cruiser’s floatplane that he had seen the American fleet. This changed Admiral Nagumo’s plan and he was in a quandary as whether to attack Midway or the carriers. It proved a costly error as he decided to rearm the planes with anti-ship ordinance, like torpedoes, instead of heavy bombs to attack the island. At 9:20 AM, American Devastator torpedo bombers from the Hornet led by Lieutenant Commander
Leslie,
went for Soryu, scoring hits. The dive-bombers left Soryu and Kaga ablaze within six minutes. Akagi was hit by just one bomb (dropped by Lieutenant Commander Best), which penetrated to the upper hangar deck and exploded among the armed and fueled aircraft there. Soryu took three bombs in her hangar deck, and Kaga was hit at least four, possibly five times. All three carriers were out of action and were
The ship was sinking and the captain ordered, “Abandon ship!”
John C. Waldron commenced the attack on the Japanese carriers. With no fighter cover, it was slaughter for the Americans as all of their planes were shot down. It was the same way for the torpedo bombers coming from the Enterprise. No hits were scored as there were problems with the torpedoes not exploding. After the torpedo bombers were wiped out, the dive bombers came in for the attack on the Japanese carriers that changed the course of history. Enterprise’s air groups split up and attacked two targets. Beginning at 10:22, Wade McClusky and his wingmen scored hits on Kaga, while to the north Akagi was attacked four minutes later by three bombers, led by Lieutenant Commander Richard Halsey Best. Yorktown’s dive bombers, commanded by Max
eventually abandoned and scuttled. The one Japanese carrier that was not attacked (as of yet) was the Hiryu, and she sent 24 planes to hit the Americans. Several planes were shot down but eight made it through and three dropped bombs on the Yorktown. The Japanese thought they had sunk her but in an hour damage control parties had controlled the fires and got the engines running again. However, two torpedo planes attacked the Yorktown and scored hits. The ship was sinking and the captain ordered, “Abandon ship!” In return, dive bombers from three American carriers (planes from the Yorktown had landed on the two other ships) mortally damaged Hiryu in a strike around 5:00 that afternoon. The destruction of
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the four carriers in the Carrier Strike Force compelled Admiral Yamamoto to abandon his Midway invasion plans, and the Japanese fleet began to retire westward. At 2:55AM on June 5, two cruisers that were from the bombardment group, the Mikuma and the Mogami, collided while trying to evade an attack by an American submarine, the Tambor. When the sun came up, American dive bombers sank the Mikuma while the Mogami eventually made it back to home waters for repairs. On June 6, the Japanese submarine I-168 sent a spread of three torpedoes at the crippled Yorktown and the destroyer USS Hammann. Both ships were sunk and thus ended the Battle of Midway. The diversionary raid on the Aleutians was a victory for the Japanese as they had landed on three islands. However, it did not divert the American carriers from the main battle which were ultimately able to destroy the Japanese carriers. Not only did the Americans sink four of the six Japanese carriers that bombed Pearl Harbor, they had successfully turned away for the second time a superior enemy that was trying to land on strategic Pacific bases. The sinking of the carriers turned the tables of the balance of power in the Pacific and the Americans were now able to go on the offensive in August.. Avi Heiligman is a weekly contributor to The Jewish Home. He welcomes your comments and suggestions for future columns and can be reached at aviheiligman@gmail.com.
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Studying Sm
rt
Taking Care of Business What You Can Do With a Business Degree By Chaim Homnick
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usiness degrees are the most popular option for college grads. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 20% of the 1.85 million annual bachelor’s degrees conferred in the 2013-2014 school year were in business. In fact, business has been the single most common major each year since 1980-81. However, despite their ubiquity among grads, business degrees (whether an undergraduate or an MBA degree) are pretty non-specific. Graduate medical school and you get hired as a doctor. The same is generally true for law school and for myriad other professions. In fact, many of the students pursuing business degrees are merely doing it as a stepping stone on their way to law school, accounting, or another field where a business degree is a useful first step. But what do you do after completing an undergraduate degree in business or an MBA if you are now hoping to join the
workforce? While there are many specific options within a business degree, even those don’t necessarily lead to a clear market for a new grad’s services. Minoring in Finance or Accounting (or earning an MBA that specializes in a specific field) is
that degree to help focus their career goals. Therefore, below are a few options for business majors to consider as careers. Keep in mind that some of these categories can overlap. Someone may find a job doing sales within the finance market or managing a real estate office.
It is critical for students pursuing business degrees to have some sense of what they hope to do with that degree to help focus their career goals.
America isn’t for everyone. As that metaphor implies, it can be a long climb from entry-level positions up to the top. However, those with an aptitude for leadership and organization may find positions in management and quickly work their way up. In the Jewish world, retail management or nursing home administration seem to be areas where one can find a niche market to grow within. Obviously, the easiest route within this field is having a family business that conveniently has a management position waiting for you. For the rest of us, be prepared for the process to take time.
SALES/MARKETING valuable, but it doesn’t necessarily dictate your future job prospects. It is critical for students pursuing business degrees to have some sense of what they hope to do with
MANAGEMENT Perhaps the classic option, trying to use a business degree as a way to climb the ladder in corporate
Graduates with a salesman’s hustler mentality or a penchant for marketing may enjoy working their way up the ladder behind the force of their own sales success. Rather than being a paper-pushing junior manager, a top salesman may earn
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his keep selling cars, investments, insurance or whatever else enables him to ride his sales success to the top. Those in marketing may strive to earn their bosses’ attention by being great team players that make significant contributions to clients’ campaigns.
FINANCE On the surface, finance seems like an alluring, wheeling and dealing existence. In reality, those starting out can face poor salaries, long hours, and a lot of paperwork. You have to love numbers and find a way to stand out within your firm in order to advance.
REAL ESTATE A business degree is a useful way to learn about various markets and to learn the role of cash flow, assets, financing and other key concepts within those markets. Real estate is a field with a slew of potential options for brokers, investors, and flippers to earn a living and potentially more. But it also incurs more risk than many people realize.
OWN A BUSINESS Ironically, this last category is one where a business degree is perhaps least likely to be a prerequisite to success. Sure, concepts learned in business school can aid a business owner, but there are countless cases of uber-successful business owners who barely graduated kindergarten and a commensurate number of MBA grads whose attempted forays into entrepreneurialism failed spectacularly. Nonetheless, while you don’t need an MBA to own a business, having one can be useful on a few levels. Firstly, business school does hone your understanding of the fiscal guidelines for success within a business and it can teach you numerous other ancillary business skills. Second, there are times where having an MBA can provide you or your business with an extra layer of legitimacy or it can simply provide a fallback option to use towards a new job if your business struggles. Either way, if you own a business or decide to launch one, perform a real cost-benefit analysis
to ensure that earning a business degree is the best course to take. Ultimately, a business degree is inherently more nebulous than degrees within engineering or medicine or another career track. Nonetheless, it can be a crucial tool towards several promising career options. For students starting down the path of a business degree without any specific endgame in mind, it is imperative that they utilize every
opportunity to intern in different fields or research different options. Only then can you truly take care of business and make sure you don’t end up waiting tables after you graduate.
Chaim Homnick is the College Advisor at Mesivta Ateres Yaakov of Lawrence and also teaches 5 periods of Honors/ AP English Literature. Chaim is the owner of Five Towns Tutoring (five-
townstutoring.com) and has new Regents groups forming now, especially for 9th and 10th graders, in Algebra, Geometry, Bio and Global. He scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and the LSAT and tutors both extensively. He has a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration as well as an MBA. Chaim lives in Inwood, New York. For questions, comments, previous articles or tutoring, he can be reached directly at chomnick@gmail. com or 305-321-3342.
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Renovated 1BR Apt, Eik, Renovated 3BR,2BA 1st Flr 4BR,2BA Cape, Formal Updated 4BR,2.5BA Hi Close To All..$1,995/mo Apt & Fin Bsmt..$3,200/mo DR,Bsmt,SD#14..$560K Ranch, Near All..$729K
Magnificent 5BR, 3.5BA 7BR,5BA Contemporary, Split, Pool, SD#14..$899K IG-Pool, SD#14..$POR
Lovely 4BR Brick Colonial W/Add’l Piece Of Property On The Side, Eik, Formal DR, Prime Loct..$989K
Carol Braunstein
Susan Pugatch
Call or Text
(516) 592-2206
cbraunstein@pugatch.com
(516)
www.pugatch.com
295-3000
spugatch@pugatch.com
CEDARHURST: 574 Trysting Pl (2-3:30)$539K H E W L E T T: 3 7 5 O a k D r i v e ( 1 2 - 1 : 3 0 ) $560K N. WOODMERE: 501 Hungry Harbor Rd (12-1:30)$729K
4,200+/-SF Free Standing Bldg With 12 Car On-Site Parking Great Location!!!
1,800+/- SF Two Story Bldg 2,000+/-SF Office Bldg in Rear 12 Car Parking - Close to All
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Classifieds classifieds@fivetownsjewishhome.com / text 443-929-4003 APT FOR RENT
HELP WANTED
LAWRENCE. LARGE ONE BEDROOM APT. Close to train, underground parking, spacious living room/dining area. Motivated seller $118,000. Call 917-299-8082
CHEF For take out Food store in The 5 Towns. Will train. Call or text 917-620-8954
APARTMENT FOR RENT ON SEAGIRT AND BEACH 9TH. Two floors recently added private front entrance, central air. Perfect for young couple asking for $1750 a month includes heat. Please call 347 524 3864
SITUATION WANTED Driver/Personal Assistant/Companion Experienced male seeks parttime evening/weekends position performing the above duties at reasonable rates. Excellent references. Contact Arnold cancerman1961@gmail.com
HELP WANTED Bais Yaakov of Queens seeks experienced, vibrant LIMUDEI KODESH TEACHERS, grades 3,5,6, for September ’17. Email Resume to: nechamajurkowitz@gmail.com
SEEKING NURSERY ASSISTANT TEACHER Warm, Motivated and Organized Excellent opportunity for growth Please send resume with references to morahseek@gmail.com Yeshiva Ketana of Queens is looking for 3RD-5TH GRADE GENERAL STUDIES TEACHERS. 4 afternoons a week 1:30-4:30. Warm environment, good pay. Please call 917-742-8909 and email resume to rlswia@aol.com Hebrew Academy of Long Beach, Woodmere, NY is accepting applications for the 20172018 year in Language Arts and Ivrit. Send resumes to: sbotwinik@halb.org ART TEACHER TAG HS has opening to teach drawing, painting, AP Studio Art, and AP 2D Design (Photoshop) for pm classes, 2017-18. Send resume to mshepard@tagschools.org
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Pugatch Realty Corp., in Woodmere, is looking to hire and train a select group of motivated Realtors. If you are looking to build a career in real estate, or looking to take your existing career to the next level, there is no better place to start that the #1 Real Estate Brokerage in the Five Towns…Call Today (516) 295-3000 x 128. All calls kept confidential.
SCHOOL SECRETARY POSITION AVAILABLE IN QUEENS Located in Kew Gardens, small boys kiruv school seeks secretary to run school office. Tasks include answering phones, daily attendance, creating flyers, helping with mailings, coordinating various programs such as busing, state testing, etc. Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel and a strong computers background necessary, experience in schools a plus. Hours are MondayThursday 8:30-3:45, Friday 8:30-12:15, possibly adjustable. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send resumes to jobseekfr@yahoo.com
Boys kiruv school located in Kew Gardens seeks general studies teachers for upper elementary grades. Must be proficient in Common Core curriculum and comfortable with technology in the classroom in addition to receiving training in an award winning system. Competitive salary. Hours are Monday-Thursday 12:30-3:45 Please send resumes to jobseekfr@yahoo.com
We are a mesivta in the Far Rockaway/5 towns area, seeking experienced teachers only in ELA , Math, Chemistry and History for September 2017 for Grades 9 thru 12, afternoons only: We provide a professional, warm and supportive environment with an excellent salary. Please email resume to: 5tmesivta@gmail.com
Immediate openings for Middle School Language Arts Teacher and Limudei Kodesh Maternity substitute in Hebrew Academy of Long Beach - afternoons only. Resumes to ulubetski@halb.org SIACH YITZCHOK - FAR ROCKAWAY seeks JH Math & ELA teachers candidateteacher@gmail.com
355 Central Avenue, Lawrence NY 11559 (Across the street from Seasons)
P: 516.791.6100 | F: 516.374.7059 www.WeissmanRealty.com
THE SUMMER SELLING SEASON IS HERE If you are thinking of selling your house or just curious about how much your house is worth, call on our expert team to give you a free market analysis.
CEDARHURST
LAWRENCE/FAR ROCKAWAY
Coming July 1
Reduced 3bd, 2bth with gorgeous granite kitchen. Large grnd oor opens to back and water. Just needs to be nished. Make it the way you want. Call Sherri Slochowsky 516-297-7995
Sunny Junior 4 in Beautiful Co-op Building. Renovated Kitchen and Bath, Hardwood Floors. Elevator, Doorman, and Laundry. $265,000.
APARTMENT & OFFICE RENTALS Far Rockaway office for lease Cornaga location, 3 to 4 offices, plus bthrm. Good for doctor, dentist or business. $1900 Call Sherri 516-297-7995 Cedarhurst offices for lease Single rooms or executive suites. All utilities included. Starting at $400. Call Sherri 516-297-7995
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Classifieds HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Special Ed preschool looking for CB EI teacher for summer only Good pay and conditions 9AM-3PM ~ July 10-August 21 Please email scohen@onourwaylc.org
CATAPULT LEARNING Teachers, Title I Boro Park, Williamsburg and Flatbush Schools *College/Yeshiva Degree *Teaching experience required *Strong desire to help children learn *Small group instruction *Excellent organization skills Competitive salary Send resume to: Fax: (212) 480-3691 ~ Email: nyteachers@catapultlearning.com
Special Education Early Childhood Center looking for a Physical Therapist to conduct Early Intervention and CPSE evaluations (children 0-5). Flexible hours. Please email resume and sample evaluation to ewaldman@ onourwaylc.org Local F.T. Accounting Office Seeks P/T JR. ACCOUNTANT proficient in Q.B. knowledge of payroll tax, sales tax, business tax and individual taxes Qualified applicants should please e-mail resume to: 5towntaxoffice@gmail.com FIVE TOWNS OFFICE LOOKING FOR immediate hire of several people…part time and full time…starting at $15 per hour. Need detail- oriented person to handle A/P, A/R, customer service, and ability to negotiate bids and contracts. Computer literate a must. Please email fabadi@egwaste.com Yeshiva Ketana of Queens Looking for Energetic & Inspiring Female GENERAL STUDIES TEACHERS 2017-2018. Grades 2-5 Email Resume Rlswia@aol.com 718-969-1000 EXT 105 REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT AND INVESTMENT COMPANY is looking for an experienced Investor Relation associate to raise capital for sponsor/investor relationships. Compensation will be offered thru partnership/commission. Contact info@zreny.com 718-285-0941 WARM, LOVING, HEIMISHE PLAYGROUP IN FAR ROCKAWAY – AGES 2 ½ TO 4 – IS LOOKING FOR ASSISTANTS AND SUBSTITUTES. PLEASE CALL 516-371-6848
OVERNIGHT \WEEKEND COUNSELOR Responsible and exp’d staff to live in a beautiful group home & work 3 nights\ week 7pm - 9am. Staff are not req’d to remain awake after 11pm. Staff are req’d to work two weekends per month. Free rent & food. Stipend given as well. Great for college girl. For additional info contact Frayde Yudkowsky at 732.948.4636 or fyudkowsky@ evolvetreatment.com
MISC DONATE YOUR CAR, TRUCK, VAN, SUV AND HELP ILL CHILDREN Get $1200 in gift cards and $1500 tax deduction 718-974-9428 SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURES Tickets + Safari Valid any operating day $40 Parking passes $20 Call or text Shua @917-923-0011
SHIDDUCH DATING? NEED PLACES TO GO? Check out Pegishaplace.com WIG GEMACH Everyone in our community deserves to look great! Donate used wigs and make a world of a difference. For appointments to see wigs or to donate, call Deena 845-304-6668
Life CAPTURE
I M A G E S LTD PHOTOGRAPHY I VIDEO
GABRIEL SOLOMON
GABE@LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM 516.499.9620 WWW.LIFECAPTUREIMAGES.COM
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Money
No Soup For You! By Allan Rolnick, CPA
N
ovember 2, 1995, was a delicious day in television history. That’s when Jerry Seinfeld and the rest of his gang introduced us to the “Soup Nazi”, a stern-looking chef who demands his customers follow his obsessive rules for lining up and ordering. The Soup Nazi didn’t win any awards for customer service, but his soup was so good that customers lined up around the block for it anyway. The episode scored an Emmy for Larry Thomas, the actor who played the character. And it led to fame and fortune for Al Yeganah, the real-life “Soup Nazi” who operated a restaurant on Manhattan’s West 55th Street that the character was based on. Fast-forward to now. The Original Soup Man, based on Staten Island, has bought the rights to the Soup Nazi’s name and his recipes. The company manages three locations plus an online operation, and its stock even trades on the over-thecounter market (under the symbol SOUP, naturally). But all is not well in Soup Heaven. The company faces financial problems that no amount of Lobster Bisque or All-Natural Gluten Free Lentil can solve. So the Soup Man found himself borrowing some
gold “bouillon” from our friends at the IRS. Here’s the scoop. Employers are responsible for withholding income tax and payroll tax from their employees’ wages. They’re also responsible for spooning out their own share of payroll taxes on those wages. Employers who find themselves in fi-
ordering his soup. When employers fail to pay, the IRS springs into action. They can hold “responsible persons” with an ownership in the business or signature authority over its accounts personally responsible for payment. They’ll happily hit you with penalties equal to 100% of the tax not paid. And they have no
He’s stewing at the thought of five years of meals in a place where the soup probably isn’t very tasty.
nancial trouble sometimes “borrow” from the IRS by failing to make those deposits. (Just until business gets better, they tell themselves. Right...) Failure to pay those taxes deprives the government of much-needed revenue, of course. And it cheats those employees out of future social security benefits. For those reasons, the IRS is even more obsessive about collecting payroll taxes than the Soup Nazi is about
problem souping up the pressure to hold you personally liable even if you had no idea the taxes weren’t being paid. (Did you just discover your payroll service made off with the money? Stinks to be you...ladle up!) You can probably see where we’re heading. On May 23, federal prosecutors indicted Soup Man’s chief financial officer, Robert Bertrand, on 20 counts of failing to pay. They reported that from 2010 to 2014 he
paid some employees in unreported cash and others in unreported stock awards to the tune of $2.8 million. And they alleged that his actions fleeced the government out of $593,971.52. Bertrand pled not guilty and walked out of court on $50,000 bond. But he’s stewing at the thought of five years of meals in a place where the soup probably isn’t very tasty. And he’ll have a hard time pleading ignorance — the indictment reports that his outside auditor warned him as far back as 2012 that he needed to report those payments. (At least you can still buy the soup on Amazon. com!) Fortunately for the rest of us, there’s no need to risk years of watery, tasteless soup in order to pay less tax. You just need a plan. That’s where we come in, and we can promise better service than the Soup Nazi. Call us when you’re ready to discover our recipe for Savings Gumbo! Allan J Rolnick is a CPA who has been in practice for over 30 yea rs in Queens, NY. He welcomes your comments and can be reached at 718-896-8715 or at allanjrcpa@aol.com.
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Life C ach
Enjoy the Simplicity While You Can By Rivki D. Rosenwald Esq., CLC, SDS
T
here’s a time in a toddler’s life when you can give them a little pasta, a little pizza, and they are a happy camper! But somehow, you’re not! Oy, you think, I wish they’d eat something besides pasta and pizza, even though you know they sell healthy, whole wheat pasta, completely protein-enriched! Then there’s that moment you regret that wish! That pivotal point where you realize all I’m ever thinking is, “What should I make for dinner?!” And you start longing for those simpler times. The ones you didn’t know to appreciate back then. So, for all you young moms and dads, go ahead – keep enjoying the variety you’ve learned to appreciate in your own life. But for them, just keep boiling the water for the pasta and do it with a smile! Because soon enough things do change! They discover steak, and quiche, and stews, and salad, and many other things that keep you busy buying, and making, and slicing, and dicing. Things that you cannot simply toss in a Ziploc and use on the go. Things that require menu planning and cooking time. And you get to a point where you think there are just so many permutations of dinners that you can make. And then, added to that, they develop their own philosophies as well. For instance:
Philosophy 1: “I don’t eat left overs!” What does that mean?! Do they think we are some kind of savants? Do they imagine we’ll know right to the bite just how much they will eat? And, after all, if you didn’t make enough would they be happy?! These are not leftovers, these are extras!
did that already 10 times that day! Philosophy 3: “I decided to be a vegan!” Yes, OK, that’s wonderful for you, whatever! “However, couldn’t you have waited till you moved out and started to cook for yourself?!” unless they need no variety and are happy for you to pull out the little Ziploc
Should you open an account at every restaurant in the neighborhood and tolerate a traffic jam of deliverymen at your front door?! What should you do with them once they’ve served their usefulness? Toss them?! Refrigeration must be understood in a more kindly light. It allows them to eat more of what they loved last night instead of it becoming public enemy number one! Philosophy 2: “I’m not in the mood of that tonight.” Now, trust me I get this feeling! But it’s not like it’s a flavor of yogurt! You can’t just switch it on a moment’s notice. This took time to prepare. Maybe they can work on changing their mood instead. That, after all, might be a lot simpler. They probably
bag you saved with the whole wheat pasta in it alongside their memorable bronzed baby shoes. Cooking for a family is not an easy feat. After all, not everyone likes the same foods. So, you must own a wellstocked cabinet filled with a variety of breakfast cereals for the outlier. Not everyone arrives home at the same time. So, if you take out what you served earlier at the meal is that considered leftovers?! And not every day is it easy to make things from scratch. So, is something made fresh and then fro-
zen OK with them? Do they look for proof it was made fresh that day?! Even when you try and simplify by ordering in not everyone wants the same food! Should you open an account at every restaurant in the neighborhood and tolerate a traffic jam of deliverymen at your front door?! What I’m telling you is if you have a simple eater, a repeat eater, or an undemanding in terms of variety eater in your life, just check that the dish has nutritional value and then sit back and enjoy the ease of it all. Because just like moods change, tastes change. And before you know it you’ll be plenty challenged to come up with variety, freshness, and pot and pan proof of recent production. So, while a Ziploc bag, sitting prepared on the shelf, can provide satisfying sustenance – wish no more! Don’t feel pressured to introduce new choices; soon enough they’ll figure it all out on their own. Just grab that bag and go, especially while you still have time to go other places beside the supermarket, the kitchen, or the witness stand to take an oath you just made it all fresh that day! Rivki Rosenwald is a certified relationship counselor, and career and life coach. She can be contacted at 917-705-2004 or rivki@rosenwalds.com
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POOL DATE thru S: Aug 27th* *8 No W /24 and 8/ omen ’s Sw 27 im 25th
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