On Rosh Hashanah, A Breath of Life – Rabbi Sacks’ message for Rosh Hashanah 5775

September 23, 2014

In the year that we are now parting with, 5774, it became dangerous once again to be a Jew. Israel, subject to sustained missile attack, discovered how hard it is to fight an asymmetric war against a terrorist group ruthless enough to place rocket launchers beside schools, hospitals and mosques. It found itself condemned by large sections of the world for performing the first duty of any state, namely to protect its citizens from danger and death.

Anti-Semitism returned to the streets of Europe. One hundred and twenty years after the Dreyfus trial, the cry “Death to the Jews” was heard again in Paris. Seventy years after the Holocaust, the call of “Jews to the gas” was heard in the streets of Germany. There were times when it felt as if the ghost of a past we thought long dead had risen to haunt us. More times than was comfortable I heard Jews say, “For the first time in my life I feel afraid.”

Let us stay with those fears and confront them directly. We are not back in the 1930s. To the contrary, for the first time in the almost four thousand years of Jewish history, we have simultaneously independence and sovereignty in the land and state of Israel, and freedom and equality in the Diaspora. Israel is strong, extraordinarily so. The success of the Iron Dome missile defense was the latest in an astonishing line of technological advances — not just military but also agricultural, medical and commercial — designed to protect, save and enhance life.

Israel has lived with the disdain of the world for a very long time. Even the most lukewarm among us knows that it is infinitely preferable to have a state of Israel and the condemnation of the world than no Israel, no Jewish home, and have the sympathy of the world.

The unity Israel showed during the Gaza conflict was deeply moving. It reminded us that in a profound existential sense we remain one people. Whether or not we share a covenant of faith, we share a covenant of fate. That is a good state to be in as we face the Yamim Noraim, when we stand before God not just as individuals but as a people.

As for anti-Semitism, rarely has it been more self-evident that the hate that starts with Jews never ends with Jews. The most significant enemies of the Jews today are the enemies of freedom everywhere. Worldwide we may feel uncomfortable, anxious. But there are parts of the world where Christians are being butchered, beheaded, driven from their homes and living in terror.

As for Muslims, one prominent academic recently estimated that of the hundreds dying daily, at least 90 per cent were doing so at the hands of their fellow Muslims. Bahai are at risk. So are the Yazidis. So in other parts of the world are Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs, and for that matter atheists. No historian looking back on our time will be tempted to call it the age of tolerance.

Which brings us back to the Yamim Noraim. There is a note of universality to the prayers on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur that we do not find on other festivals. On other festivals the key section of the Amidah begins, Atah bechartanu mikol ha-amim, “You chose us from among all the nations.” The emphasis is on Jewish singularity. On the Yamim Noraim the parallel prayer begins, “And so place the fear of Lord our God, over all that You have made… so that all of creation will worship You.” The emphasis is on human solidarity. And human solidarity is what the world needs right now.

One message resonates through these days: life. “Remember us for life, King who delights in life, and write us in the book of life for your sake, God of life.” We sometimes forget how radical this was when Judaism first entered the world. Egypt of the Pharaohs was obsessed with death. Life is full of suffering and pain. Death is where we join the gods. The great pyramids and temples were homages to death.

Anthropologists and social psychologists still argue today that the reason religion exists is because of people’s fear of death. Which makes it all the more remarkable that – despite our total and profound belief in olam haba and techiyat ha-metim, life after death and the resurrection of the dead – there is almost nothing of this in most of the books of the Bible. It is an astonishing phenomenon. All of Kohelet’s cynicism and Job’s railing against injustice could have been answered in one sentence: “There is life after death.” Yet neither book explicitly says so.

To the contrary, King David said in a psalm we say daily: “What gain would there be if I died and went down to the grave? Can dust thank you? Can it declare your truth?”

Almost at the end of his life Moses turned to the next generation and said to them: “Choose life, so that you and your children may live.” We take this for granted, forgetting how relatively rare in the history of religion this is.

Why so? Why, if we believe the soul is immortal, that there is life after death and that this world is not all there is, do we not say so more often and more loudly? Because since civilization began, heaven has too often been used as an excuse for injustice and violence down here on earth. What evil can you not commit if you believe you will be rewarded for it in the world to come? That is the logic of the terrorist and the suicide bomber. It is the logic of those who burned “heretics” at the stake in order, so they said, to save their immortal souls.

Against this horrific mindset the whole of Judaism is a protest. Justice and compassion have to be fought for in this life not the next. Judaism is not directed to fear of death. It is directed to a far more dangerous fear: fear of life with all its pain and disappointment and unpredictability. It is fear of life, not fear of death, that have led people to create totalitarian states and fundamentalist religions. Fear of life is ultimately fear of freedom. That is why fear of life takes the form of an assault against freedom.

Against that fear we say from the beginning of Ellul to Sukkot that monumental psalm of David: “The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom then shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life. Of whom then shall I be afraid?” On Rosh Hashanah we blow the shofar, the one mitzvah we fulfill by the breath of life itself without needing any words. On the first day of Rosh Hashanah, the “anniversary of creation,” we read in the Torah and haftorah not about the birth of the universe but about the birth of Isaac to Sarah and Samuel to Hannah as if to say, one life is like a universe. One child is enough to show how vulnerable life is – a miracle to be protected and cherished. On Yom Kippur we wear the kittel, a shroud, as if to show that we are not afraid of death.

Never before have I felt so strongly that the world needs us to live this message, the message of the Torah that life is holy, that death defiles, and that terror in the name of God is a desecration of the name of God.

The state of Israel is the collective affirmation of the Jewish people, a mere three years after emerging from the valley of the shadow of death, that Lo amut ki echyeh, “I will not die but live.” Israel chose life. Its enemies chose the way of death. They even boasted, as did Osama bin Laden, that the love of death made them strong. It did not make them strong. It made them violent. Aggression is not strength; it is a profound self-consciousness of weakness. And the main victims of Islamist violence are Muslims. Hate destroys the hater.

Today it is not just Israel or Jews whose freedom is at risk. It is the whole of the Middle East, large parts of Africa and Asia, and much of Europe. Therefore let us approach the New Year with a real sense of human solidarity. Let us show, by the way we celebrate our faith, that God is to be found in life. The love of God is love of life. Let us take to heart King David’s insistence that faith is stronger than fear. No empire ever defeated the Jewish people, and no force ever will. May God write us, our families, the people and State of Israel and Jews throughout the world, in the book of life. And may the day come when the righteous of all nations work together for the sake of freedom, peace and life.

Community Supports Israel

September 22, 2014

Teddy Kurtz, a 3rd grader from Magen David Yeshivah, organized the tournament that raised money for an organization called Friends of Maglan. Maglan is one of the only Special Forces combat units operating behind enemy lines, and they are in pressing need of special combat boots. Over 40 boys participated in this event, and after hearing about the soldiers, they felt proud to know that they helped.

In addition, Magen David Yeshivah held a Kids Literacy Event at the home of Joyce and Raymond Betesh, where guests were encouraged to write letters to the IDF. Those letters were sent to Israel that week, and will be given directly to the soldiers! There are many people to thank, including Suzanne and Eric Sasson for graciously opening up their home for the girls’ car wash, and to all that volunteered including: Mimi Cohen, Vivian Cohen, Sharon Dabbah, Ruthy Dweck, Sarita Esses, Sarah Goldman, Rochelle Hafif, Betty Hidary, Jennifer Mudick, Virginia Oved, Jennifer Salzman, Marcelle Sasson, Rita Scaba, Rebecca Sitt, Jamie Tawil, and Vivian Terzi.

Thank you to Erica Dweck and Nicole Oved for overseeing the boys’ event and to Tami and Sol Mosseri for graciously opening their home. Thank you to volunteers: Alvin Ades, Morris Dweck, Alan Frastai, Joe Gindi, Jack Hadar, Jack Hanan, Morris Hanan, Isaac Kroub, Isaac Maleh, Jacob Mosseri, Michael Oved, Steven Rabiti, Leo Rahmey, Gerry Sabbagh, Charles Safdieh, David Shalam, Joshua Shalam, Max Shalom, Micky Shamah, and Ralph Terzi. Thank you to Stephanie and Howard Kurtz for graciously hosting the dodge ball tournament and to Klemi Azrak, Danny Chabbott and Lawrence Kurtz for volunteering as referees.

Congregation Shaare Shalom’s Home Alone Summer Series

September 22, 2014

securedownload[2] — Congregants enjoying the class

With many men home alone in Brooklyn in the summertime, or just enjoying a more relaxing schedule, Congregation Shaare Shalom introduced The Home Alone Summer Series with newly appointed Rabbi Avi Harari. The weekly series has been a wonderful opportunity for the congregants to get to know the Rabbi, while enjoying a delicious dinner and class. With a different topic every week, Rabbi Harari has captivated the attendees with its diversity. The simple concept has kept the Shaare Shalom congregation close during the summer months.
“I immediately felt comfortable in the warm atmosphere of Shaare Shalom. It is a kahal (congregation) that has grown so much under Rabbi Joseph Dweck, and I hope to continue it forward in all aspects of growth and avodat Hashem (service of G-d),” said Rabbi Harari.
Born in Brooklyn, Rabbi Harari studied several years in yeshivot in Israel and at Yeshivah University, and currently teaches Tanakh (Torah) and Talmud at the Yeshivah of Flatbush High School. He and his wife have three children—two boys and a baby girl.

“The Rabbi’s smooth and effortless delivery translates to an easy explanation of the topic discussed, making his classes so enjoyable,” said Joey Shomer.
Moshe Hazbany added, “The weekly Monday night class at Shaare Shalom has allowed those spending most of the summer in Deal to stay connected to our shul and committing time to learning Torah. Over the course of the summer, I had an opportunity to bond with my fellow congregants through Rabbi Harari’s thought-provoking and insightful shiurim (classes). This program offers only a glimpse of what lies ahead in Shaare Shalom’s exciting future.”
“Monday night is the night of the week when many men, who spend most of the summer with their families in Deal, spend the night alone in Brooklyn. Providing them with a ready dinner and a class is an obvious draw,” said Rabbi Harari, adding, “A few years ago, I ran a similar set of classes during the summer at Magen David of New York, and judging by its success, I knew it would work at Shaare Shalom as well.” The topics of the classes range from Torah and Livelihood to The True Meaning of the Kaddish.
“Rabbi Avi Harari has captivated all that have attended his class. He has been excellent in engaging his audience. His topics are well presented with subjects that are pertinent to today. The dinners offered before the classes have been great and have given our congregants an opportunity to mingle,” said Salomon Cohen.
“Although this class was intended for the ‘home alone’ men, a good 50% of the attendees were men that don’t go away. It’s really very exciting what’s happening here. We plan to expand on these types of programs in the coming year,” said Moses Maya.
Please visit the Congregation Shaare Shalom website at shaareshalom.com to learn more about the fall class schedule.

SFF Climbs the Ladder of Success

September 22, 2014

Steve Jobs’ words have been the guiding principle behind the work of a freelance committee dedicated to helping change the worlds of individuals in our community every single day. With the youngest member only 16 years old and the oldest 26, these individuals have devoted so much time and energy to giving back to the community.

It is no surprise that they found themselves at the helm of another spectacular and successful summer, netting over $200,000 for the Sephardic Food Fund and uniting thousands of our community members for the same cause.
The SFF summer began with their 2nd Annual Shootout event, graciously hosted by Esther and Joey Jerome. The day saw over 450 participants competing in various sports, including basketball, soccer, tennis, and volleyball, with over 1,000 spectators showing their support. The BBQ was absolutely mouth watering, and the Chinese Auction was a huge hit! At an awards ceremony, trophies and iHomes were given to all of the winners.

Although it was wonderful, that wasn’t the biggest event of the summer. On August 18, 968 runners, over 200 cheering spectators, and 30 volunteers showed up for the largest community run to date. This was no ordinary run, though. With a growing popularity around the world, the SFF decided to organize its 2nd Color Splash Community Color Run.

It was a spectacular morning of color and fun as participants ran through the streets of Long Branch. Runners of all ages were covered in blue, pink, green and orange paint. Some even rolled in the paint-filled street to cover every inch of their bodies.

With Joe Betesh at the DJ stand, the final throw of paint came with a countdown to the drop to the song Colors. One thousand paint packets met the clouds, creating an artsy and symbolic notion of many individuals joining together to become one communal family.
We would like to thank everyone for their continued support of the SFF and for their support of our soldiers in Israel, who received some proceeds from the event.
A special thank you to our selfless sponsors, our gracious hosts, and our awesome volunteers! Special thanks to our photographer Morris Anteby, DJ Joe Betesh, Stormins Sports, Bobby Morabia, Stacey Gindi, Vicki Hoffstein, Edlo Sorcher, Prime Cut, Ray T. and the entire SFF family.

Arnold Fine, Longtime Jewish Press Editor and Columnist, Passes Away At 90

September 17, 2014

Arnold Fine, a beloved fixture at The Jewish Press for more than half a century, passed away in his sleep at his home in Battery Park City, Manhattan, on Friday, September 5, at age 90.
Fine’s association with the late founder of The Jewish Press, Rabbi Sholom Klass, began before The Jewish Press was launched when Fine worked for The Brooklyn Daily and Brooklyn Weekly, both published by Rabbi Klass.

In the mid-1960s Fine started writing a weekly Jewish Press column called “I Remember When” (an exclamation point would eventually be added to the title). The column, which brought to life the sights, sounds, and smells of New York City in the 1930s and ‘40s, quickly became one of the paper’s most popular features and to this day has continued to enchant readers of all ages.
The paper will continue to publish the column, said associate publisher Naomi Klass Mauer.

“The subjects Arnie wrote about are timeless and new generations have always taken to the column’s warmth and nostalgia,” she said. “His writings will live on even though he is no longer with us.”
Fine’s writing spoke to generations of readers, both Jewish and non-Jewish. Several of his articles appeared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series of inspirational short stories; his article “The Letter in the Wallet” appeared in Reader’s Digest and has been reprinted in numerous anthologies and appeared on countless websites and blogs (sometimes under the shorter title “The Wallet”).
In addition to his work at The Jewish Press, where he eventually served as senior editor, Fine was a photographer, a musician, and an educator.

An armed forces veteran, he had the distinction of being in both the Navy and the Army. He joined the Navy at the end of World War II and then found himself drafted by the Army a few weeks later.
After the war he roamed New York City as a press photographer with a 4×5 camera shooting for local newspapers. Looking to get ahead in the newspaper business, he went to college and earned a bachelor’s degree thanks to the GI Bill.

Later on, after going back to college for a master’s in education, he became a celebrated special education teacher in the New York City school system. He was a pioneer in teaching brain-injured children and was loved by his students and their parents.

A natural musician, he played the clarinet, saxophone, and piano and loved the old big bands and their music.
Late in life he developed Parkinson’s disease but was still able to get around with the aid of a wheelchair. He was a frequent sight in Battery Park City where he could occasionally be spotted with the family poodle, Lisette, sitting on his lap as he wheeled down the Esplanade.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he was predeceased by his wife, Edith, who passed away in 2006. He is survived by three children, Jay (spouse Cindy), Brian (spouse Dina), and Martin (spouse Janet); six grandchildren, Eric (spouse Cece), Daniel (spouse Tara), Joan, Sarah, Max, and Adam; and two great-grandchildren, Ella and Eve.
Interment was at New Montefiore Jewish Cemetery in West Babylon, New York.

Better to Give Than Receive

September 17, 2014

Mitzvah Man Auction 2014

Do you ever think about why we are here, on this earth? Ask your friends; I bet at least one of them answers, “To give,” though others may not. That was the Mitzvah Man’s answer, when he began to think about his purpose, years ago, before this organization ever existed. We function daily, we work, we keep our houses tidy and running, we go from day to day dealing with problems of all shapes and sizes. We rest, we celebrate, we mourn, and the circle of life continues. Through it all, we create bonds. I believe the way we do that is through giving.
When the Mitzvah Man founder heard about a family living in their car, he was floored. “It was just heart wrenching for me,” he explained. “Imagine a couple and their two children sleeping, eating and functioning out of the small space we squirm in if we have to go more than an hour away? You really can’t understand the depth of these people’s pain and suffering until you see it with your own eyes.”

Baruch Hashem, the Mitzvah Man’s task force got to work. Through their volunteers and services this family was put up in a hotel for two weeks until better arrangements could be made. Finally, a kind-hearted soul from our community offered his home, rent-free for one year. Along with that came assorted large and small appliances. Soon clothing, footwear and many everyday needs began to arrive. This presented a much-needed opportunity for a struggling couple to grow and rise up. We are happy to report that six months later this family is back up on their feet, working and doing beautifully, thanks to the Mitzvah Man.

This year, the Mitzvah Man’s 4th Annual Chinese Auction took place at Maggie and David Bawabeh’s home. The outpouring of generosity was a testament to this beautiful family who truly exemplify hesed, and a cause that does its best to multiply it ten thousand fold. When the crowd arrived on Wednesday evening Michael Cohen, founder of the Mitzvah Man, opened his heart and shared the story of the beginning of this multifaceted organization. It started simply, with visits to the sick and kind favors to people in need during his spare time. Sometimes it was a ride to a doctor, a bulb that needed replacing, or assistance putting on tefilin in the morning. No job was too big or small, but quickly one soul in need became 10, 20 and 100. Fortunately, where there is need, there will be volunteers. This community is incredible, and this one-man show grew as quickly as the problems that needed tending. A force that started with one volunteer soon manifested itself into an army of over 1,900 soldiers, all giving of themselves to help anyone and everyone in need.

As a backdrop to the evening, there was a beautiful photo display of the many volunteers in action, along with food by Nicole Shammah, wine and a beautiful auction. Playing throughout was a spectacular video of hands-on hesed through the eyes of both volunteers and clients. It quickly became clear that whether the giver or the receiver, these mitzvot have changed their lives.
Rabbi Joey Haber topped off the afternoon with over 200 women listening raptly to his words. “There is nothing like the feeling of putting a smile on someone’s face. I want to thank Mitzvah Man, not for what he does and the hesed that people receive, but for turning 1,800 community members into hesed machines. And for giving them the opportunity to see life and experience life as someone who does…”

Today, reaching volunteers is easy. Texting, Facebook and Instagram can create hesed opportunities all around us, and there is truly something for everyone. This week three autistic teens volunteered to do hesed. Mitzvah Man explained, “Hesed is real, tangible and do-able. Everyone can help in their own way either monetarily, or through volunteering time, goods or services. Every day acts of kindness for those in need are diamonds for those who rely on the Mitzvah Man for assistance. It has been said that those who survived the sinking of the Titanic could not rely on the huge ship to rescue them—it was the little tiny rowboat that saved them in the end. Michael is carrying the oars, but he needs more people to row. A simple act of kindness goes beyond comprehension.
Another touching story occurred when a 95-year-old blind client had a volunteer visiting. The mitzvah girl realized that a woman like this, living alone was in grave danger should anything unexpected happen at home. She thought about it and decided that a voice activated, hands free telephone might keep this woman safe. It was a simple expense that was generously donated, but in the end, it literally saved her life.

This woman lives alone and has no family and no aid—nothing. When she woke up one evening with pains in her chest, she yelled into her phone, “Hatzalah!” Hatzalah came within minutes, and brought her straight to Maimonides Hospital. When Mitzvah Man was alerted, volunteers reached community contacts in the ER and set her up with the best doctors and care. The woman had in fact had a heart attack. As soon as she was released, a private ambulance was arranged, and volunteers were waiting at her doorstep to carry her up to her apartment. Baruch Hashem, she is doing wonderfully.
Each one of us has the potential to create our very own storybook of hesed. We all have it in us; we just have to let it out. Giving is an incredible feeling. It is amazing, uplifting and inspiring. Join the force and be a part of our team. For more info please visit our website atthemitzvah-man.org, or call our hotline 1(866) 355-1825.

A Summer Night of Reading and Fun At Magen David Yeshivah

September 17, 2014

On a warm Monday evening in mid-August, a quiet street on the Jersey Shore was transformed for the young members of our Magen David Yeshivah family and their exciting literacy event. The students, along with their parents, were thrilled when they arrived and saw a backyard filled with colorful balloons, an assortment of delicious foods, and countless books for their very special “read aloud.” It was an MDY summer literary happening set in a warm and nurturing atmosphere.

The youngest students were invited to A Summer Night of Reading and Fun, which featured a read aloud with MDY teachers and administration and craft projects for all ages. Children were welcome to wear storybook themed pajamas and share their favorite storybook characters.
The beautiful home of Joyce and Raymond Betesh served as the setting for the event. Children, parents, and faculty had an unforgettable, fun-filled and educational evening organized by MDY’s talented and creative PTA.
The director of the early childhood division, Mrs. Terri Mizrachi, the Assistant Principal of the elementary school lower division, Mrs. Debra Hamburg, the director of the elementary school’s learning center, Mrs. Stacy Katzwer, the literacy coach and associate program director, Mrs. Carly Mavorah and other faculty members read iconic children’s literature—The Day the Crayons Quit, Knuffle Bunny, Chrysanthemum, and Miss Brooks Loves Books—to the attentive children Mrs. Hamburg said, “It was a perfect evening.

Our children and parents experienced one of our major school goals—reading and enjoying books. The listeners were totally engaged. The storytellers did what they love to do, read to and experience books with their cherished students. It was the perfect combination for a night whose impact will last well past this event.”
MDY elementary school has become a haven for readers. Celebrated authors of children’s books often visit and students are engaged in literacy activities consistently during the year.
As the sun began to set, it was time for the spectacular evening to come to a close. Mrs. Norma Chehebar, a parent of two MDY students, perhaps best summed up the evening, “Wow! It was a really amazing night. It gave my young children a great foundation for the love and enjoyment of reading and enhanced my excitement and eagerness to read to them.”

Gesher Yehuda’s Annual Bake Sale and Chinese Auction

June 6, 2014

Sold out—that’s what happens when so many people put their all into an event. When the recent Gesher Yehuda Yeshiva Annual Bake Sale and Chinese Auction wound down, the delicious breads, cakes, cookies and 75 gourmet lunches were wiped out. Even the ticket coupons were running in short supply! It is safe to say that this year’s event, in honor of Susan and Ted Salame was a huge success drawing supporters from nearly every corner of the community.

Hosted by the Salames’ children, Joyce and Saul Ashkenazi, the fundraiser brought awareness of the school’s importance to many new families. “It was a true pleasure hosting the recent annual Gesher Yehuda Auction and Bake Sale in our home. The turnout was amazing and we thank the community members for attending,” said Saul. He and Joyce generously gathered sponsors and encouraged family and friends to participate. A huge crowd turned out for a couples’ wine tasting event, where Ted spoke about the school.

What is significant about a day of prizes, food and fun is that people are pulling together for a cause that unifies the community. At the Bake Sale, Rabbi Sananes, always a supporter of the school, gave a Torah class and occupational therapist and creator of Know it all Moms, Michelle Cohen, showed how parents can be proactive with their toddler’s development through everyday activities.

None of this would have been possible without the coordination of volunteers. Saul added, “We also thank the Gesher committee for their efforts in setting up a beautiful bake sale and auction.” He praised Jack and Claude Setton and Susan and Ted Salame for their continued loyalty and support for the school.
The committee this year included, Grace Benun, Eliane Chattah, Rebecca Maleh, Susan Salame, Claude Setton, Marjorie Sitt, Elana Wahba and Pauline Wahba. In addition Annie Abadi, Sarina Setton, Shannon Wahba and many others assisted to make the day special.

“We make a great team!” exclaimed Claude, one of the school’s founders. She, like many others, is clearly proud of what this dedicated group is able to accomplish. From shopping to soliciting donations, from setting up the tables to rolling up their sleeves to prepare foods, they each performed a task and did it all seamlessly. They appreciate and thank the community for its support.

Yeshviah of Flatbush’s Yom HaShoah Program

June 6, 2014

The Khezrie Auditorium at the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School was filled to capacity on the eve of Yom HaShoah, as the community joined together for Witness Theater, (a production in which students told the stories of Holocaust survivors in a very special way).

At the beginning of the school year, YOF seniors were paired with Holocaust survivors, to learn their stories and prepare to portray them on stage. Students met with the survivors weekly, diligently taking notes, listening to and recording their harrowing stories of survival. Through the use of drama therapy, guided by Creative Arts Therapist and Director Sally Grazi-Shatzkes, students and survivors developed dramatic representations of the survivors’ experiences during the war.
“Drama therapy is the perfect vehicle through which to facilitate this kind of deeply emotional group process, because it allows us to tell, hear, and respond to very difficult material without words. Through these creative therapeutic techniques the students and survivors could support each other with movement, human sculpture and story enactments,” explained Grazi- Shatzkes.
As the auditorium lights dimmed, the audience was reminded that while most of the survivors and students had never been on stage before, they were motivated by their dedication to making sure that their stories were never forgotten. JBHS Head of School Rabbi Raymond Harari opened the evening with a recitation of the apt passage from Sefer Yechezkel, 37: Prophecy of the Valley of Dry Bones. The survivors ascended the stage, guided with care by the Witness Theater students, while the JBHS choir, directed by Musical Director Brian Gelfand, sang a beautiful rendition of the song, Katonti. Then began the production.

YOF 5
As each survivor narrated, the students reenacted the survivor’s story. The completely darkened auditorium, aside from stage lights, created an atmosphere that allowed the audience to forget all else, save for the drama on stage. The audience was drawn into the world the students and survivors created, experiencing the performers’ painful, sad and strong moments, and effectively becoming witnesses themselves to the stories being brought to life by the survivors and students.
Hearing tales of the survivors’ most sorrowful memories, stories of the families they lost, and the difficult conditions they endured, was hard. But in Witness Theater, after each story was told, the student and survivor discussed the survivor’s life after the war.

YOF 1

“It shouldn’t have happened, but it did. It’s a fact of life. Hitler wanted me dead and here I am, with grandkids and great-grandkids,” said Hy Abrams, who survived harsh conditions in many concentration camps.
Despite the difficult times the survivors lived through, they rebuilt lives for themselves. Survivor Editha Avishai was born in the ghetto in Hungary, where she lived with her mother and five siblings. After the war, she spent her childhood separated from her mother in an orphanage in Israel, feeling unwanted and unloved. “It wasn’t easy after all those years of suffering; it was very hard for me to love,” she said during the performance. However, Mrs. Avishai did marry and raise children and grandchildren.

It was clear, through the powerful and moving performances, that the survivors and students had developed strong bonds, as each story was reenacted with care and sensitivity. Grazi-Shatzkes said of the Witness Theater journey, “Each Wednesday night, the students and survivors deepened their relationships. As the survivors told and recreated their childhood memories and their losses during the Holocaust, the two generations acted as pillars of support for each other. The students and adults cried together and shared many moments of sadness and grief, but at the same time they looked to each other for laughter, love, hope, and faith. They became witnesses to each others’ personal growth. Not only were the stories told and enacted and shared, but now there are these beautiful, unique friendships full of deep respect and understanding that will last forever.” The students plan to stay in touch with the survivors after the program, and often reinforce their relationship by calling before Shabbat. One student is hosting a survivor for Shabbat dinner.

YOF 2
Every student was affected by the Witness Theater project. Participant Edan Malca was so moved by her experience that she was inspired to write a song, “Present and Past,” that she performed in tribute to the survivors along with the student choir. Mr. Gelfand set the lyrics to an original score. The participating survivors were Hy Abrams, Edith Avishai, Sol Goldberg, Sabina Green, Toby Levy, Rena Nudel, Edith Kozma and Trudy Tajerstein. The students included Eden Malca, Joy Feinberg, Michele Schewe, Lital Nainshtein, Lauren Levi, Celia Tawil, Nina Esses, Jacqueline Baum, Aliza Kantarowitz, Raizy Cohen, Chana Sitt, Sarah Cohen, Linda Gindi, Victor Dweck, Daniel Hoffstein and Ezra Idy.
Witness Theater is a joint venture between the Yeshivah of Flatbush and Selfhelp Community Services. This program was coordinated by Sally Grazi-Shatzkes, Project Assistant Joey Mandil, Selfhelp Administrative Director Adeena Horowitz and Selfhelp Social Worker Fran Tarshish.

MDY Welcomes Rishon L’sion Chief Rabbi Rav Yitzhak Yosef

June 6, 2014

During his inspiring first visit to the United States, Rishon L’Sion Chief Rabbi Rav Yitzhak Yosef visited the Magen David Yeshivah Elementary School.
When the Rishon L’Sion arrived, Rabbi David Shelby, a teacher at MDYES and a student of Rabbi Yosef’s father, Rabbi Ovadia Yosef zt’l, introduced his class. The Rabbi blessed them with health and strength to continue to learn Torah.

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Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef’s Visit to the Jersey Shore

June 3, 2014

Why were residents of the Jersey Shore in such a good mood despite the gloomy weather, recently? The anticipation in the air overcame the intense humidity—young and old alike awaited the arrival of the Rishon L’Sion, Hacham Yitzhak Yosef, the Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel.

Chief Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef speaking at Hillel Yeshiva

That anticipation began several days earlier, as schools and community institutions feverishly prepared for the Rabbi’s arrival. His schedule would be packed, as he planned to visit each yeshivah in succession and end the day with a community-wide gathering at Congregation Magen David of West Deal.
He began the tour at Keter Torah, where Rabbi Dabbah’s students greeted him and stood in awe listening to his words of Torah and berachot.
Next was Bet Yaakov, where the Rabbi addressed the 200+ girls in the auditorium, with words of inspiration and wisdom. Rabbi Choueka eloquently translated the Rabbi’s speech.

The students and staff of Hillel Yeshiva welcomed the Rabbi outdoors, with the entire student body greeting him in song as his car pulled up to the large parking area. What a sight of blue and white! Outside, Rabbi Kassin introduced Middle School Student President, Michael Ancona, who presented the Rabbi with hand-written letters of comfort and consolation on the loss of his father, Hacham Ovadia Yosef zt”l. He also gave the Rabbi a picture of his father’s visit to Hillel Yeshiva years earlier. Hacham Yitzhak was escorted into the auditorium where his inspirational words were heard by hundreds of middle school and high school students, as Rabbi Ovadia Alouf translated. The program opened with a warm and powerful introduction by Rabbi Moshe Dweck and concluded with passionate words by Rabbi Howard Bald.

Next, the Rabbi was off to Ma’or Yeshiva (Rabbi Semah), where he spoke to the boys about the importance of finishing their Torah studies. He advised them to progress one masechet (tractate) at a time until they finish the entire Shas (full Sephardim Shomrei Torah).

The Chief Rabbi at Magen David of West Deal

At Ilan High School, Hacham Yitzhak relayed to the girls how great his mother was; how she built a beautiful family. He instructed them on the proper way to create their future homes based on his mother’s example. Rabbi Diamond then translated the inspirational speech.

He finished the afternoon with a shiur over an hour long for Rabbi Diamond’s rabbinical students. The room was packed and everyone thirstily drank up the Rabbi’s words.

Community leaders met with Chief Rabbi Yosef at the home of Charles Saka

Later that evening, as promised, the Rabbi was led through a standing-room-only crowd into the sanctuary at Magen David Synagogue. President Elliot Braha welcomed the Rabbi, his assistants and the guests into the synagogue. Rabbi Saul J. Kassin then spoke about his experience with the Chief Rabbi during his years of semicha program in Jerusalem. Rabbi Isaac Farhi introduced the Rabbi, who spoke next, to an audience of nearly 800 people. Throughout his entire message, one could hear a pin drop. He closed with a beracha for the entire Jersey Shore community—for health, for prosperity, and most of all, for unity. Rabbi Shmuel Choueka then translated the Rabbi’s speech into English. Much of it focused on the greatness of his father, Hacham Ovadia zt”l.

The evening closed with a spiritually meaningful minyan for Arbit. It was a whirlwind day, but the effects will be felt for years to come!

Keep Hair Smooth This Summer

June 3, 2014

The summer is upon us and during these months we enjoy a more relaxed lifestyle, away from the formality of the city. This is the time to let our hair down—literally.

During the summer most of us are outdoors a lot, swimming, golfing, and sitting on the beach. The weather, especially if you are at the shore or by the water, is usually misty and humid and wreaks havoc on even the best hair. Some of us get frizzy or too full to be tamed easily.

There are many hair products on the market. Some de-frizz hair, some are meant to tame it. There are gels that keep hair slick and there are a wide variety of mousses. There are even products to add shine. Sometimes it gets confusing. For my hair, anything I put in it takes away the shine and feels dirty after a day, however some people swear by their hair products. Have you ever wondered what the difference is between all these products? Here’s a quick lesson.

Mousse, sometimes called styling foam, is a styling product that is packaged under pressure and expands when released. It is much lighter than other products, and some brands are created as a combination leave-in conditioner and styling product. Mousse works well for most hair types, but people who have dry hair should avoid products that contain alcohol. Those who require strong hold or who are looking to maintain a short, molded hairstyle might want to try gel instead.

Gel can be quite versatile, and it’s available as either a spray or direct application. Spray products are good for a quick, overall covering, but they generally provides less hold than direct application hair gel. The direct application type requires you to work it in evenly by hand, but it typically provides a stronger hold. Hair gel works well for scrunching curls and helping create sleek shapes. Again, people with dry hair should avoid hair gel containing alcohol.

Glossing or polishing drops, also sold as anti-frizz serum, are silicone-based hair styling products that are designed to smooth rough hair shafts, reducing or eliminating frizz. Most products are applied in small amounts and can be used on wet or dry hair. Users should be careful, however, because too much can make the hair look heavy and greasy.

Hair volumizers are used to temporarily add volume, body, and shine to thin or flat hair. They come in many forms like shampoos, conditioners, sprays, pomades and lotions. They contain humectants, which work by attracting moisture from the surrounding areas to the hair strand, thereby swelling the hair and making it look thicker. Various polymers present in the volumizer coat the hair strand, making it look thicker and shiny.

Shampoo and conditioner forms of the volumizers are used just like ordinary shampoo or conditioners.

The spray and lotion form of volumizers are used in damp hair, near the roots.

To use, flip your head downward and gradually blow dry your hair, with the air being blown along the shaft of the hair; once the hair is dry, you can flip your head up.

Syria’s Oldest Synagogue, Destroyed by Assad

May 28, 2014

Exclusive Photos: Syria’s Oldest Synagogue, Destroyed by Assad

The Jobar Synagogue was one of the holiest Jewish sites in Syria and contained priceless historical artifacts. Now it’s destroyed—and the opposition says Assad is to blame.

Syrian Arab Army forces flattened the Eliyahu Hanabi Synagogue in the Jobar neighborhood of Damascus over the weekend. The attack not only wrecked a site that’s at least 400 years old. It may have destroyed thousands of irreplaceable Jewish artifacts contained inside the synagogue, according to opposition leaders and photos obtained at the site.

The area where the synagogue once stood has been under bombardment by the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad for months. The Syrian regime is laying siege to the town, one of the few rebel strongholds in the area. It’s all part of what the opposition calls Assad’s “scorched earth” policy, which includes random and violent attacks on civilian populations.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the destruction of Jobar Synagogue, which was a treasure of Jewish and Syrian cultural heritage,” said Shlomo Bolts, an official at the Syrian American Council, an American charity connected to the Syrian opposition.

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The Jobar Synagogue in Damascus laid in ruins Monday after being shelled by Syrian government forces. All photos provided exclusively to The Daily Beast by witnesses on the ground. ()

Bolts, a Jew of Syrian ancestry, said that the Syrian Jewish community is only the latest victim of Assad’s strategy to target religious and cultural institutions.

“Yet this is hardly the only place of worship to be destroyed by the Assad regime. The Umm al-Zinar Church [a house of worship in Homs that locals say dates back to the first centuries of Christianity], the [1,400 year-old] Khalid Ibn Walid Mosque, and countless other irreplaceable cultural sites are now lost to history due to a dictator’s manic desire to keep power at all costs,” he said.

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The Syrian American Council is part of the Coalition for a Democratic Syria, an umbrella organization that claims to represent over 100,000 Syrian-Americans. The group’s contacts inside Syria shot photos of the rubble where the Jobar Synagogue stood until days ago. Those photos were provided to The Daily Beast.

This week’s attack, though the final blow, was not the first time the Syrian regime had bombarded the Jobar Synagogue. An Israeli news report from April 2013 noted that the synagogue had been “looted and destroyed,” although later photos proved that the synagogue had taken only moderate damage from a mortar shell.

Activists estimate that at least 33 churches and hundreds of mosques have been destroyed by the Assad regime since the start of the Syrian civil war. Six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Syria have been destroyed in Syria since the fighting began.

Last December, photos emerged in another Israeli news report showing that many of the synagogues most precious artifacts were intact. The report stated that the bulk of the synagogue’s artifact collection was being held safely in the hands of local leaders.

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Before the conflict, the synagogue held thousands of religious and cultural treasures, including hundreds years old Torah scrolls, historical texts, precious dining ware, and ancient Judaica of all sorts. Some of the items were reportedly looted in the early days of the war. Some were reportedly placed in safekeeping. Many remained in the building until its destruction.

Opposition sources told The Daily Beast that the damage assessment following this week’s devastating attack on the Jobar synagogue was ongoing but all of the Jewish heritage items that remained inside the synagogue are feared lost.

The Eliyahu Hanabi Synagogue, built to honor the prophet Elijah, had existed at least since medieval times. The site has been a destination for Jewish pilgrimage for centuries. It was said to have been built atop the cave where Elijah hid from his persecutors. The Prophet Elisha, who allegedly built the synagogue, was said to have anointed King Hazael on its steps, now gone.

The town of Jobar was home to a significant Jewish population throughout the medieval period, although the community was eventually driven out of Syria and the synagogue was taken over in 19th Century by local Arab leaders. Following the establishment of the State of Israel, the synagogue was used as a school for displaced Palestinians.

As early as March 2012, UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova was publicly warning about damage to precious sites and calling on both sides to protect Syria’s cultural legacy.

“Damage to the heritage of the country is damage to the soul of its people and its identity,” she said.

Thank Those Serving – Remembering Those Lost

May 26, 2014

Memorial Day, an American holiday observed on the last Monday of May, honors men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, at least, it marks the beginning of summer.

For more click here,

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history

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