COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:45 AM Page 1
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8 LAMPLIGHTERS Outstanding Individuals Dedicated to Chinuch Share Thoughts
FROM CROWN HEIGHTS TO THE WORLD Kinus Hashluchim
THE SEFER THAT WAS LEFT BEHIND A personal tale
SHINING BRIGHT: THE ARSENAL OF TANKS
Exclusive Photos 5748 With the Rebbe
ISSUE 2
KISLEV 5780 / DECEMBER 2019
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COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:45 AM Page 3
Lighting up the world. It's what we do.
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CONTENTS COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:45 AM Page 4
CHANUKAH
13 NIGHTS
16 23 26 4 COLlive Magazine
From Crown Heights To the World
8 Outstanding People Dedicated to Chinuch
The Sefer That Was Left Behind
The Rebbe’s Arsenal of Tanks
32
Chanukah 5748 with the Rebbe
36
Things To Do on Chanukah
38
World’s Largest Menorah Stands Tall
40
The National Jewish Monument
44
6 Most Unique Menorahs
KOSHER
54
A Food Destination Like No Other
58
The Crown Heights Food Guide
62
Oven Baked Chocolate Doughnuts
64
Apple & Pear Spiced Sufganiyot
Rivkah Krinsky
Itta Werdiger Roth
COLUMNS
6
From the Publisher
8
Dvar Malchus
Mica Soffer
From the Rebbe
10
Weekly Features on COLlive.com
47
Health
50
Parenting
66
Humor
Dr. Avraham J. Gottesman
Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch
Mordechai Schmutter
COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:45 AM Page 5
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COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:45 AM Page 6
FROM THE PUBLISHER MICA SOFFER
PUBLISHER
Mica Soffer EDITOR
Rabbi Yehuda Ceitlin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Leibel Baumgarten Libby Herz Shifra Klein Rivkah Krinsky Mordechai Schmutter Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch Sara Spielman Itta Werdiger Dovid Zaklikowski DESIGN
Toiby Hayes PHOTOS
Shimi Kutner RebbeDrive Hasidic Archives Shimon Roumani PARTNER Yossi Rivkin
I have found there to be a
light. From the Car Menorah
beautiful and emblematic
Parade in the streets of New
connection between the
York City to Mivtzoim at public
International Kinus
Menorah lightings and
Hashluchim, the chassidishe
celebrations, Pirsumei Nissa is
yomim tovim of Kislev, and
an effort joined by chassidim
Chanukah - and the role Crown
of all ages.
Heights plays in them.
What connects all of these
The kind residents of the
special occasions is the focus
shechuna open their homes
outward, sharing Yiddishkeit
and hearts to Shluchim during
and Chassidus with others, and
the Kinus (and year-round),
fulfilling the instruction of
enabling them to continue
“Hafotzas HaMayanot Chutza.”
succeeding in their holy work to prepare the world for the
After our first issue of COLlive Magazine, many reached out to
coming of Moshiach.
say they were delighted to read
Yud Tes Kislev, the Rosh
it because it highlighted
ADVERTISING Phone: 718-679-9450 ext: 2 Email: ads@COLlive.com
Hashana of Chassidus, is the
people and events that bring
day that Chassidus was allowed
goodness and joy to our
to be taught without
beloved Crown Heights. In this
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES OR SUBMISSIONS Phone: 718-679-9450 ext: 1 Email: Editor@COLlive.com
limitations. It is marked here
second issue, we tried to
with farbrengens and special
reflect these elements and the
learning programs in
spirit that defines the
the schools.
upcoming days and our
COLlive does not endorse any products or services reported about or advertised in COLlive Magazine unless specifically noted. The acceptance of advertising in COLlive Magazine does not constitute a recommendation, approval or other representation or quality of products or services, or the credibility of any claims made by advertisers including, but not limited to, the kashrus or advertised food products. The use of any products or services advertised in COLlive Magazine is solely at the user’s risk and COLlive accepts no responsibility or liability in connection therewith.
And Chanukah is when Crown Heights residents take an
Wishing you all a month of
active part in spreading the
Kislev full of light and joy,
Mica Soffer
FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
6 COLlive Magazine
neighborhood.
@COLliveOfficial
Photo: Nechama Photography
COLlive Magazine is published in print periodically by the Collive Media Group Inc. and is distributed free in Brooklyn, NY.
@COLlive
718.679.9450
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The Rebbe’s answer to a Jewish New Yorker who criticized public Menorah lighting ceremonies by Chabad in the USA By the grace of G-d 3rd of Sivan, 5738 Brooklyn, N.Y. Dr. New York, N.Y. Greeting and Blessing: This is to confirm receipt of your letter and I regret the unavoidable delay in replying to it more promptly. In it, you express your reservations about the kindling of the Chanukiot in public places on the ground of (a) the principle of the separation of church and state (b) it being “counterproductive.” Had I received your letter years ago, when the practice started, I would have had a more difficult task defending it, for the simple reason that the expected positive results were then a matter of conjecture. But now, after the practice and the results have been observed for a number of years, my task is an easy one since the general acclaim and beneficial results have far exceeded our expectations. The fact is that countless Jews in all parts of the country have been impressed and inspired by the spirit of Chanukah which had been brought to them – to many for the first time. Indeed, the
8 COLlive Magazine
eternal and always timely message of Chanukah – the victory of the outnumbered forces of light over the overwhelming forces of darkness that attempted to make Jews forget G-d’s Torah and mitzvos (as we say in the prayer of “V’al Hanissim”) – struck a responsive chord in the hearts of many Jews and strengthened their sense of identity with the Maccabees of all ages. This year, too, now that some six months have elapsed since Chanukah and reports have come in from various places where Chanukah lamps were kindled publicly, the results have been most gratifying in terms of spreading the light of the Torah and mitzvos, and reaching out to Jews who could not otherwise have been reached, either because some of them are unaffiliated with any synagogue or, though loosely affiliated, thought that the religious practices belong within the confines of a synagogue and do not relate to the personal everyday life of the individual. It was precisely through kindling the Chanukah lamp in public places, during “ordinary” weekdays, with dignity and pride, that it was brought home to them that Judaism is practiced daily, and that no Jew should feel abashed about it.
Photo courtesy of RebbeDrive
IN RESPONSE TO YOUR OPPOSITION
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DVAR MALCHUS
Photo courtesy of RebbeDrive
With regard to the “Constitutional” question, I can most assuredly allay your apprehensions on this score. I am fully certain that none of all those who participated or witnessed the kindling of a Chanukah Lamp in a public place (and in all cases, permission was readily granted by the authorities) felt that his or her loyalty to the Constitution of the U.S.A. had been weakened or compromised thereby. Indeed, many expressed surprise that this practice had not been inaugurated years earlier, seeing that the U.S. Congress opens with a religious invocation by a representative of one of the major religions in this country; and, surely, the U.S. Congress, comprising each and every State of the Union, is the place where the Constitution of the U.S.A. should be most rigidly upheld. There is surely no need to belabor this point. As for you stating that some Jews did object to the ceremony on Constitutional grounds, to my knowledge, these were exceptional and isolated instances. Moreover, I dare say that (entre nous) the objectors, though ostensibly citing the Constitution, were motivated by other sentiments, a plausible assumption, since they are identified with organizations that thwart every effort to get State aid for Hebrew Day Schools and Yeshivos to alleviate their burden of the secular department and other “nonreligious” needs. Be it noted that the money that would have been received in such aid carried the motto “In G-d We Trust!” it Is lamentable that as a result of this attitude thousands of Jewish children have been deprived of their right to a Jewish education. It is not surprising therefore to see such an appalling rate of intermarriage, nor is it surprising, however sad and deplorable, that the vast majority of intermarriages take place among the ranks of young people who have been deprived of Jewish education, for one reason or another.
In view of your expressed concern for the preservation of Judaism in this country and for the protection of our children against proselytizing etc., I am encouraged to take advantage of this unexpected exchange of correspondence between us to express my ardent hope that you will use your influence to put an end to the destructive fight against State aid to parochial schools – at any rate insofar as the secular department is concerned, so as to enable Jewish Day Schools and Yeshivos to open their doors to the maximum number of students, starting with the next school year and thereafter. For, only an adequate Jewish education can preserve our young generation and future generations from alienation, intermarriage and complete loss, G-d forbid. I hope and pray that everyone who has a voice and influence in Jewish community affairs and is concerned for the Jews and Judaism in this country no less than for the preservation of the American way, will indeed act in the spirit of the basic principle of “this nation under G-d, and government of the people, by the people and for the people,” including also the Jewish people, and do everything possible for the good of every Jewish child, that he and she remain Jewish, marry a Jew and live Jewishly; and of course a good Jew is also a good American. With prayerful wishes for an inspiring Yom Tov of
Mattan Torah and the traditional blessing to receive the Torah with joy and inwardness. Sincerely yours, (The Rebbe’s signature)
This letter is presented by Nissan Mindel Publications (NMP) as part of The Letter & The Spirit series of original English Letters of the Lubavitcher Rebbe selected and arranged by his personal secretary, Rabbi Dr. Nissan Mindel. Volume Five is ready for print (sponsorship available).
Kislev 5780 Edition
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W E E K LY O N
F E AT U R E S C O L L I V E . C O M MOTZEI SHABBOS S H A B B O S N I G H T L I V E RABBI SHMUEL BUTMAN Now in its 11th year on COLlive.com, Shabbos Night Live is viewed by thousands of steady viewers from all over the world. Rabbi Shmuel Butman, Executive Director of the Central Lubavitch Youth Organization (Tzach), shares a weekly story from the Rebbe followed by a sicha of the Rebbe. Some programs are filmed at the Kosel, Paris and even Kazakhstan.
MOTZOEI SHABBOS STORY DOVID ZAKLIKOWSKI
A weekly Chassidic story for the Melave Malka table is presented by Dovid Zaklikowski, an author and writer and Director of Hasidic Archives. These cherished tales about the Baal Shem Tov, Alter Rebbe, Berditchever Rebbe and other luminaries warm the heart and inspire the soul.
S U N D AY MYLIFE: CHASIDUS APPLIED RABBI SIMON JACOBSON An hour-long dose of insights into the teachings of Chassidus dealing with practical and emotional challenges in personal lives and relationships. Presented by Rabbi Simon Jacobson, choizer of the Rebbe and bestselling author of “Towards a Meaningful Life.” Every question is answered in a simple, clear language with eye-opening advice from the Rebbeim.
10 COLlive Magazine
M O N D AY STUMP THE RABBI Providing a quick answer to every question, Rabbi Yossi Paltiel, Rabbi Noam Wagner, Rabbi Shlomo Goldfarb, Rabbi Mendy Wolf, and others take on hundreds of topics and questions about Jewish life and Chassidic practice. Made possible by the Chanin Fund and Reliable Fast Cash.
M
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T H U R S D AY H E R E ’ S M Y S T O R Y JEM A fascinating and uplifting encounter with the Rebbe is told in first-person as documented by the team of Jewish Educational Media (JEM).
T U E S D AY CHABAD & FRIENDS RABBI CHAIM DALFIN Facts, stories and anecdotes of the Rebbe and the Chabad-Lubavitch movement’s connection and communications within the frum Jewish world. Presented by Rabbi Chaim Dalfin, a Chabad historian, a u t h o r and ethnographer of Chassidism.
S O U L W O R D S RABBI SHAIS TAUB A 30-minute class on the Parshah based on a sicha of the Rebbe and presented with a story to share at your Shabbos table. Filmed at Chabad of the Five Towns - Levi Yitzchak Library and presented by Rabbi Shais Taub, renowned author and teacher of Chassidus.
H I S T O R I C T R E A S U R E S RABBI SHOLOM BER SCHAPIRO
‘Treasures’ from the archives of Rabbi Dr. Nissan Mindel OBM, the personal secretary of the 6th and 7th Chabad Rebbes, is shared by his son-in-law, Rabbi Sholom Ber Schapiro, Director of the Nissan Mindel Publications (NMP). The program uncovers fascinating stories, rare artifacts and precious documents from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.
F R I D AY W E E K LY M O M E N T W I T H T H E R E B B E AVNER INSTITUTE A weekly feature showing a beautiful photo of the Rebbe along with an interesting document, Yechidus, story or letter from the Rebbe.
L A T E P A R S H A S H O W ELI WEISS Eli Weiss, who grew up on Shlichus in Miami Lakes in Florida and is a Yeshiva student, presents a humorist and meaningful take on the weekly Parsha - with the help of friends, special guests and even animals.
HALACHA DISCUSSION RABBI NACHMAN WILHELM Similar to his classes on OnlineSmicha.com, Rabbi Nachman Wilhelm of Minnesota discusses a modern-day question or issue and how it is adequately addressed by halachic poskim and rabbonim over the decades.
Kislev 5780 Edition
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FROM CROWN HEIGHTS
TO THE WORLD
WITH 770 AND THE ONGOING SUPPORT, SHLUCHIM SEE CROWN HEIGHTS AS THEIR HOME BASE AND COMMAND CENTER
By Leibel Baumgarten
“E
xcuse me,” asks a
Shabbatons, to Tishrei, Yomim
year, says the Crown Heights
young man in 770,
Tovim and innumerable family
community’s generosity is
holding a cell phone with a credit
events, each year the Crown
invaluable. “The way people
card reader attached. “I’m
Heights community hosts tens of
open their hearts and their
heading out on Shlichus next
thousands of visitors in just a few
homes is unbelievable,” he said.
month, would you like to be
square blocks.
“A large part of the success of
mishtatef (participate)?” A card
these programs is thanks to the
swipe, a warm smile, and wishes
hospitality offered by the families
for hatzlacha follow in quick
of Crown Heights.”
succession. So begins a lifelong journey, along which the Crown
But beyond the Friday night
Heights community will continue
meals, Shabbos afternoon
to offer support, encouragement,
farbrengens, and midweek
and a home base for the Shliach.
sleepovers, Crown Heights offers Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, Vice
Shluchim much assistance in
Crown Heights has been dubbed
Chairman of Merkos L’Inyonei
numerous areas of their Shlichus.
the “hosting capital of the
Chinuch, who oversees the Kinus
Aside from the financial help new
world.” Indeed, from the Kinus
and many of the organizations
Shluchim receive, many Shluchim
Hashluchim, Kinus Hashluchos,
which arrange numerous events
rely heavily on the support they
annual Campus, JLI and CTeen
in Crown Heights throughout the
receive from friends and family in
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Crown Heights year-round.
with enthusiasm and pride.
organizations serving the Shluchim located in the
Between matching campaigns and collecting in person while in
“My wife and I didn’t grow up in
neighborhood. Residents are
Crown Heights, it’s impossible to
Chabad families, and when we
well accustomed to filling
truly know how much financial
went on Shlichus 18 years ago
suitcases to the limit with all
support is offered to the global
we worried we wouldn’t have the
kinds of necessities for Shluchim
network of Shluchim from Crown
support or network other
and have become experts in
Heights residents alone.
Shluchim with families in Crown
airline baggage rules and
Heights have. But over the years
regulations. “If you fly Southwest
“There’s a lot more that is
the effect the Crown Heights
you get two free bags,” one
sacrificed than finances,” says
community has had in Chevron is
Crown Heights resident
Rabbi Danny Cohen, of Chabad of
incredible. Besides for donations
explained. “But if you are taking
Chevron. “When parents send
from communities like Bais
frozen fish or meat, pack it in a
their children to help Shluchim,
Shmuel Chabad Congregation,
suitcase; if you pack it in a box,
that’s a big sacrifice and it’s done
when a Crown Heights family
Southwest will make you repack
comes to Chevron, they don’t
it in their waxed corrugated
just leave a check, they get
boxes and charge you an extra
involved with doing Mivtzoim,
$10.00.” Numerous stores and
buy pizza for the soldiers and
vendors in Crown Heights will go
help out in many ways.”
out of their way to accommodate
“THE MODEL CHABAD HOUSE IS THE CROWN HEIGHTS COMMUNITY”
the needs of Shluchim. Of course, Crown Heights is many a Shliach’s source for food
But perhaps the greatest asset to
and resources, with central
THE REBBE’S ANSWER Rabbi Schneur Oirechman Our son Shmuly was four years old when he was struck in the eye by an arrow on Lag B’Omer. Almost immediately, through COLlive and others spreading the word, we were receiving many messages of support and encouragement from Crown Heights, and we found out how many people there were davening for our son, including numerous schools that took time to say Tehillim for his recovery. Specialists in Miami advised that there was nothing to be done to save the eye, and it would have to be removed. We traveled at once to the Rebbe, poured out hearts at the Ohel, and asked the Rebbe for clear and direct guidance as to what to do. From there we traveled to Philadelphia, where another specialist advised us to visit his teacher in California who might be able to save the eye, and once again returned to the Ohel. It was on this journey that we received a Facebook message from a stranger who had heard about the story thanks to a Crown Heights resident. He told us that when he was four years old he had a similar accident and his parents were advised his eye would 14 COLlive Magazine
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KINUS HASHLUCHIM Shluchim is not the money,
“They’ve never seen anyone
goods and volunteers they get
open their home to strangers, let
from Crown Heights, it is the
alone such a large amount.
solely out of kindness.” As one Shliach put it, “the model Chabad House is the Crown
people of Crown Heights that greet their community members.
“While they have seen hachnasas
Heights community. It is there
As much as the Shluchim teach
orchim at the Chabad House,
that we learned how to open our
and inspire their communities, it
there is a sort of expectance they
homes, accept people lovingly
is often a trip to Crown
without judgment, and
Heights, where they see so
create a nurturing
many families living day-to-
environment in which to
day with the ideals and
inspire, teach and
passion seen in the
facilitate spiritual and
Chabad House, which
personal growth.”
crystalizes the lessons. “18 years ago, we worried “When our teens come for
about an adequate
the CTeen Shabbaton and
support system,” says
they eat a Shabbos meal in a
have from the Rabbi and
Rabbi Cohen. “Today it is
private home packed wall to wall
Rebbetzin whose job it is to lead
touching to think about the
with almost 50 teens, none of
the community and who receive
massive network of friends and
whom the hosts have met
financial support from their
supporters we have in a
before, they are astounded,”
guests. But the Crown Heights
community without any friends or
says Rabbi Sholom Rodal of
families receive no such
classmates that already supports
Chabad of Mt. Olympus.
compensation; they’re doing it
thousands of other causes.” n
need to be removed. His parents took him to the Rebbe for dollars, and asked for a bracha. The Rebbe advised them not to remove the eye, and after successful surgery, he regained sight in the eye. We knew that this was the direct answer we had asked for from the Rebbe. We flew to California, and the “stranger” was kind enough to send us the very dollar he had received from the Rebbe at that meeting, and our son was able to hold on to the dollar during the surgery that helped save his eye and began his journey to restore his vision. Throughout the ordeal, the Crown Heights community have not only davened and said Tehillim on Shmuly’s behalf, but they have also helped financially and offered immeasurable support and comfort. But it is also thanks to Crown Heights that we were able to receive the Rebbe’s bracha and advice.
Rabbi Schneur Oirechman is the co-director of Chabad Lubavitch of the Panhandle in Tallahassee, Florida Kislev 5780 Edition
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NIGHTS By Libby Herz
OUTSTANDING INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE BRIGHTENING CROWN HEIGHTS WITH THEIR DEDICATION TO CHINUCH SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS
THE
word Chanukah means to inaugurate, commemorating the rededication of the Beis Hamikdash after it was liberated from the Greek-Syrian forces.
After being defiled, the kohanim purified it and renewed its activity as the seat of the divine presence in our world. The Rebbe explained that Chanukah serves as a model for all inaugurations, including the most significant inauguration of all—education, a child’s inauguration into life (chinuch and Chanukah share the same root). The uncompromising insistence on purity and perfection which Chanukah represents holds an important lesson regarding the essence of the educator’s task, the Rebbe said. To highlight the strides being made in chinuch, COLlive reached out to 8 outstanding individuals who are brightening Crown Heights with their devotion and care for Chinuch. We heard from them what they love about education, which teacher inspired them most and what is their message to parents today.
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Having been in Chinuch for 40 years (25
their way of life in every facet of their life.
years of which as principal), the greatest pleasure
When I was in elementary school, we had a Rebbi
that I have is seeing children being productive,
who told us that at the end of the year he would
happy and accomplished. We take the Mesorah of
award prizes to two boys. When the time came, we
Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit and imbue it in the children. We want them not only to learn it but also to live it. When they internalize what they
RABBI YOSEF SIMPSON
Principal - United Lubavitcher Yeshiva of Crown Heights
were all expecting the two boys with the highest marks to be called up. To everyone’s surprise, they didn’t get the prize. It was the two talmidim
learn, it becomes second nature.
who put in the most effort
Our objective is that by the time a
who got rewarded. This left a
talmid graduates 8th grade, he is on
strong impression on me. It’s
his way to becoming a chossid, yire
not only about marks, but the
shomayim and lamdan. This is what
work you put in. This is
the Rebbe Rashab envisioned for his
something that every student
Talmidei Hatmimim.
has the ability to excel in.
We start the process when the
Parents must spend time
children are still in kindergarten by
with their children. It
introducing elements of
shouldn’t be only when it
Chassidishkeit through stories, niggunim and
comes to learning. It can be time spent going for
listening and seeing how the Rebbe conducted
a walk, working on a hobby, or just sitting around
himself. The children keep on hearing the same
talking and really paying attention. It should be a
message year after year in so many different ways.
given that a parent needs to communicate and
The goal is not to view Chassidishkeit as a subject
interact with his child every day. This is for
but as a way of life. The Talmidim should leave our
children of all ages. Just look each other in the
Yeshiva feeling that Yiddishkeit and Chassidishkeit is
eye and communicate.
After a few years of teaching second and fifth grade, I began to teach English and history at Bais Rivkah High School. A few years later, with the Rebbe’s direction and encouragement, I began to teach limudei kodesh. As the years passed, the school grew and there was a need for a seminary, as well as a high school principal. The hanhala of Bais Rivkah, Rabbi Chaim Mordechai Hodakov, the Rebbe’s secretary, asked me to be the principal. I have been in this position for over 35 years, along with being a teacher for 46 years.
MRS. SHEINDEL TEICHTEL
Principal of High School - Associated Beth Rivkah Schools
I love working in Bais Rivkah because it’s not just another school. It was established by the Frierdiker Rebbe and is under the auspices of Merkos. The Rebbe showed a personal interest in the school and we were asked to send reports. A life in Chinuch is a life dedicated to my students. I love developing beautiful relationships with my students and I see the possibility of growth in each girl. What gives me the ability to continue with full force is the fact that the Rebbe gave my husband
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and I a brocha during a yechidus. The Rebbe told us, “May you take your students to Torah, chuppah and maasim tovim and your students are also your children.” The greatest impact a teacher has on her students is caring. A teacher can prepare the most professional, scintillating, exciting lesson, but if the student does not feel that the teacher is concerned with her hatzlacha, the lesson cannot be regarded as a successful one. The goals and objectives of Bais Rivkah have not changed. Our students are the future and we want to give them the tools to be the best they can be. We strive to imbue them with a strong sense of identity and pride which they can then share with others.
Bais Rivkah parents are the best. They want only the best for their children and want them to be happy and to have pride as frum, Lubavitch girls. I would like parents to know the following: 1. Understand that parents and the school are a team. 2. Take out the “oy” of yiddishkeit and put in the “J” for joy. Show your children the joy in yiddishkeit. 3. Being a parent is a great zechus and responsibility. It requires love and positivity, yet comes with the immense responsibility of guiding, nurturing and developing the child. 4. Listen to your child. Listening doesn’t mean agreeing.
group of teachers and mechanchim who are When I was 16 years old, Rabbi Hillel talented and extremely devoted. Heller offered a small group of students, myself included, the opportunity to spend the summer I love having the ability to help each student learning and assisting the once prestigious realize and reach their potential. It’s important for community of Lugano, Switzerland. That summer me to be there for them in the same manner that was an amazing experience on many levels, and it so many of my mechanchim were there for me, really helped cement my motivating and guiding me commitment towards Limmud through so many points of life. RABBI Hatorah. The following year, MENDEL BLAU I have gained from so many Rabbi Heller invited me to join Principal and Director of the special people who taught me as an Eltere Bochur and Junior Tomchei Tmimim and Achei and were role models to me. Reb Teacher. I returned to the Tmimim Yeshivos at Hillel and Reb Zalman Heller Lugano summer yeshiva for Chovevei Torah. helped me realize that I have four summers and took an something to contribute in the active role in the community. chinuch field, and how to Following my year of Shlichus approach chinuch. Some of the at Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon in Los mechanchim who most impacted Angeles, I accepted Rabbi me were Rabbi Hershel Lustig, Zalman Heller’s offer to join his Rabbi Zushe Wilhelm, Rabbi Mesivta (today near Yonkers, Levke Kaplan, Rabbi Sholom NY) as a primary maggid shiur Dovid Geisinsky, and Rabbi which I did for two years. I then Ephraim Piekarski. continued in Mesivta Oholei I am currently focused on helping to improve Torah for four years. Nine years ago, I was asked yeshivos gedolos. Many of our elementary schools by Rabbi Yisroel Labkowsky and Rabbi Zushe and mesivtos are tremendously successful. Winner, the Roshei Yeshiva of Chovevei Torah, to However, the yeshiva gedolah years are the most join and take a leading role at the yeshiva. B”H, I crucial time to help a bochur take ownership of his am fortunate to be working with a wonderful yiddishkit and personal growth. The transition to
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yeshiva gedolah (zal) comes with many challenges, and each student must be guided according to his individual needs.
underappreciated for their commitment and contribution
There is a need for more options in yeshiva gedolah and we have thus created two entirely separate yeshivos that operate independently, each with its own clearly defined standards, schedule, and learning curriculum. This has proven to be very successful and we see a tremendous difference in the way we are reaching our students.
parents knew or did. While there is always room to grow,
towards their children’s growth. We are living in a time when it’s fashionable to talk about what we wish our I work closely with many parents and am usually left very impressed and inspired to see how dedicated they are towards their children’s chinuch and how open they are to continue to grow, listen, and adapt to their children’s needs and growth.
I think more often than not, parents are
After our first year of marriage, my husband and I began searching for a shlichus that we felt would suit us. One day, we received a request from Rabbi Moshe Feiglin to open a Chabad House - an equivalent of the Aliya Institute for girls in Crown Heights.
One thought that the Rebbe shares is about how a tree is compared to a person. The Rebbe explains that when a seed is planted, it will grow to be strong as long as it is whole. Such a seed will be able to withstand some damage. But should a seed have a nick in it, there is no assurance that it will grow big and strong, or that it will grow at all. Our words, our hugs, and our facial expressions are the roots for our kids and teenagers. I think about this a lot.
We began with programs held once a month in our apartment. 7 years later, we are open every night with dinner and a MRS. program in our center. Plus, we have CHAVIVA NEW 18 incredible staff members, Baruch Co-Director of Aliya Girls Hashem.
loft and Neshamos.org
I love spending time with teenagers. I appreciate teens and understand the struggle. I remember my teen years, and it was a very confusing time. There are a lot of changes happening to you and around you. It’s an in-between growing stage from child to adult. Your brain hasn’t settled, so there are the ups and downs and sideways turns. I found that being busy and focusing on giving was very fulfilling for me. It helped me feel powerful and needed. I try and hope to share that opportunity with the teens that join our Aliya Girls Family. There are really so many teachers who impacted me. Still, I cannot think of a better teacher than the Rebbe. I have received clear guidance and direction from letters in Igros Kodesh and there is no greater gift than knowing you are doing good for the world and getting clear guidance on how to do it.
I would say that for a parent, every single moment is a teaching moment. Our kids are sponges and are constantly learning from us. Mostly, they are looking for our approval. When you spend time with them and see their eyes shining, that’s your super-parent power working. And if their eyes are frowning, sit with them, hear them, and talk with them from your inner child until their eyes light up again. Food for the parent’s soul: 1. Home is not an actual physical shelter but the feeling parents create when the family is together.
2. Every child needs a warm loving home. 3. It’s ok for a parent to say they made a mistake and they are sorry. 4. You can always reach out for help. Hashem created the refuah before the maka (cure before the illness). 5. Connect, connect, connect. 6. You can do it! We support you!
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Both of my grandfathers were
yeshiva, we have resource rooms, tutors,
teachers. My father was a principal, and my
therapies, and remedial programs. We also
mother is a teacher. As a child, I watched how
aspire to overwhelm talmidim with kedusha by
my father dedicated his every fiber to Oholei
offering programming to keep the talmidim
Torah and to chinuch and I’m always inspired by
involved with the right things and contribute an
him.
exciting environment to the yeshiva. The
As a bochur, I was a learning teacher in summer camp for a few years, as well as a learning director. After I returned from Yeshiva shlichus, I taught in Mesivta in Staten Island and later as a part-time teacher in the Oholei Torah Mesivta during my second year of kollel. Soon after,
programs motivate and inspire students to do well in and out of the classroom. Programs include davening competitions, Tzivos Hashem, mivtzoim opportunities, Avos U’banim, Yeshivas Erev, Connection Point, mishnayos ba’al peh, chidon mitzvos, and programs geared towards upcoming yomim tovim and
there was a need for another principal in Oholei Torah and my father, along with the board, offered me the job. There’s a lot that I love about chinuch. I feel like it’s the most important shlichus and that we
RABBI YEHOSHUA LUSTIG
Principal of Grades 5-7, Oholei Torah Elementrary School
are on the front lines. There’s a huge zchus in teaching yiddishe neshamos, and it comes with a huge responsibility. It’s very rewarding to make an impact on young children’s lives and to be able to help them. Oholei Torah and other
yomah depagrah. We have made big strides to ensure the wellbeing of our talmidim, some of whom face struggles on a daily basis. Issues can range from broken homes, illness in the family, social challenges, anxiety, a diagnosis such as ADHD, and the like. We have processes and procedures to reach each child to make sure their individual needs are met. Help comes in many forms. Sometimes a student needs a mentor, a big brother, a kriah
schools in Crown Heights are constantly
tutor, a therapist, a remedial program, or a new
improving and growing in all areas. The
pair of glasses. We try to create a safety net
schools in Crown Heights have had
where every talmid gets what he needs; not just
tremendous growth in recent years. There is a
those with glaring struggles, but also those who
very big focus on making every talmid feel safe
may go undetected.
and secure and that he receives individualized attention and care. We constantly seek ways to make yeshiva a very warm and positive environment; a place where talmidim feel happy and excited to attend.
I hope parents realize how much chinuch in Lubavitch is constantly improving and that we’re always working on ourselves. We appreciate feedback and we value communication. Sometimes a simple phone call notifying a
In addition to all the improvements made to the
teacher or principal about a concern is all that is
daily operation and core responsibilities of a
needed to prevent and resolve an issue.
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I began teaching in Machon Chana and was then a machaneches in Bais Rivkah High School. During Bnos Menachem’s first year, I worked behind the scenes. I became the principal in the second
Tanya and Likkutei Sichos. In the 7th grade, I had a teacher who taught us a sicha every week and we all soaked up every word. Those teachers helped build my own connection to the Rebbe.
year. At the time, the school was geared towards preschoolers through 6th graders. When the school expanded a high school principal was needed, so I walked away from everything that I had helped build and started the high
MRS. RISHE MAJESKY Hebrew Principal of High School - Bnos Menachem
school for them. I love that I have the ability to influence lives, influence the future, and help shape the future mothers, shluchos - the Rebbe’s children. And I just love the girls; they’re what keeps me going. Chinuch is one of the most difficult jobs, but one of the most rewarding jobs. It’s called meleches shamayim (heavenly service). As Lubavitchers, we know how the Rebbe treasures chinuch. Teachers who taught the foundations of chassidus are the ones I remember most. They were my role models. We didn’t have that much chassidus when I was growing up, and it was a real treat to learn the
Connection Point was created by JEM in collaboration with Tzivos Hashem, that helps children watch Sichos from rallies of the Rebbe and understand what the Rebbe is saying.
My focus is very much on being there for the girls emotionally. Chinuch today is only successful when girls feel cherished and loved. I think of each student not what she is today, but what she will become, the family she will build, and I try to think of that when I deal with her.
The challenges kids face today are tremendous. They have more p’nimius than we do. It was easier in our day to be a good girl or bochur. Kids now are facing tremendous challenges and you can see how these are the Rebbe’s children. They never saw the Rebbe and yet their chassidishkeit is so real, despite, or because of, the challenges they face. I would like parents to know that their relationship with their children is crucial. If children feel a connection to the adults in their life, all the ruchnius will come. Love your kids, hug them and cherish them and all the ruchnius and values will come.
LEVI PLOTKIN
Program Creator and Coordinator of Connection Point
motivates them to continue learning from, and connecting with, the Rebbe. I began the program 3 summers ago in Camp Gan Israel in Parksville, New York. I realized that children need to
This unique program gives
feel a direct connection to the
children the tools to watch a
Rebbe without needing others’
Sicha on video, and to
help, and I worked until I came
understand directly from the
up with this program. When
Rebbe.This creates a great
it was presented to the
sense of pride and contentment
campers in Parksville, it was a
within the child which, in turn,
great success.
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I get tremendous satisfaction when I see the
Program with over 2500 students enrolled.
children feeling a direct connection to the Rebbe and feeling like they are an integral part
Parents should work on giving the real Rebbe to
of the Rebbe’s mission. They develop
children and shouldn’t dilute it. Let them
confidence in being connected to the Rebbe -
experience it. The Rebbe spoke to children for
they own it.
hundreds of hours from the age of zero. The Rebbe
Growing up, I was most impacted by watching farbrengens myself. A lot of times in life people tell us what to feel, but seeing the Rebbe talking
didn’t believe the children are the future - he believed they are the “now.” If we give the direct
is the greatest thing we have now. Last year, 34
experience of the Rebbe to children, they will feel
schools joined the Connection Point Affiliate
that connection and they will live accordingly.
We got started in the summer of 5768 with training young men to become mechanchim. Today, we are the largest organization in Chabad focused on bettering Chinuch for Lubavitch children and have empowered those leading the chinuch in their communities. I love working with the best people in Lubavitch; the educators who work without desire for recognition. Every teacher is a legend and has such an impact. They work for our families, and they don’t want anything in return. If I can help them in their sacred work and make their work more successful, I’m in the best place.
RABBI ZALMAN SHNEUR
Executive Director and Founder of the Menachem Education Foundation (MEF)
I was greatly impacted by my Rosh Yeshivas in Beis Medrash (Zal). One was Rabbi Moshe Stern, Maggid Shiur in Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitch Zal in Montreal, and Rabbi Yitzchok Goldberg, Rosh Yeshivah in Tomchei Tmimim in Migdal Emek. One of my main focuses is to bring our best, brightest, chassidish, most passionate into
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chinuch and build their capacity as teachers, principals and menhalei mosdos chinuch. Going forward, the most important position is going to be the mechanchim and specifically the Menahel Mossad Chinuch. Currently, we are providing training for that position. It’s always been our focus to make chinuch our #1 shlichus. The Rebbe said the call of the hour is chinuch. If you have money, put your money into chinuch. If you have time and energy, put it into chinuch. If we are serious about our community, we have to be serious about the chinuch of our community.
My message to parents is that any effort put into chinuch pays back a thousandfold. Being in touch with teachers, and going down to your child’s school is priceless. Investing in chinuch is the greatest investment that parents can ever make. If you have extra money, make chinuch your number one tzedakah. You can outsource a lot of things, but not parenting.
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The Sefer That Was Left Behind A Crown Heights author describes the most prized book in his possession By Dovid Zaklikowski
My grandparents’ home in East Flatbush was a second home to me. Many a weeknight supper, almost every Yom Tov, and for several years, every Shabbos, I sat at their large dining room table. It never struck me as odd that the walls of the room were almost invisible, lined with the bookcases that held my grandfather’s extensive collection of seforim. The same went for the bedrooms, the living room, the basement, the office. Every room was a library, except for the kitchen—my grandmother’s sanctuary. Looking back two decades
after my grandfather, Rabbi Chaim Meir Bukiet, Rosh Yeshiva of the Central Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitch Yeshiva, passed away, I marvel at his love for Torah study. He never left home without a sefer in his hand, to be used at every free moment, whether he was waiting for a city bus or a friend. Even his rebukes to his lively grandson took the form of a learned discourse. I’ll never forget how he would say in his Polish Yiddish, “Dovid, Ich hob geleint oifen veg in a sefer vos ich hob gefinen…” (I read in a sefer on the way, where I found…). Then would come
the halacha that prohibited whatever it was I had just done, or the piece of wisdom that he tried to encourage me to make better choices. An amateur sleuth of historical documents and information, I often asked him about his eventful life. But for many years he resisted all my questions. He was living in the present, and reveled in every moment he could study another page of Torah. Then, out of the blue, at the Shabbos table, he said with a smile, “If I were you, I would not have sold the sefer with the Chofetz Chayim’s signature in it…”
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FAMILY For the first time, he described some of his experiences during the Second World War (later he would share many more details). He was a young yeshiva bochur in Otwock, near Warsaw, when war broke out. Inexplicably, the small resort town, then the home of the Frierdiker Rebbe and the Lubavitch yeshiva, was among the first targets for the Nazi Luftwaffe air force on September 1, 1939. My grandfather described the scenes of carnage and bedlam as the civilians reacted to the surprise attack. The yeshiva immediately disbanded, the students scattered, and my grandfather, an only child, returned to his hometown of Chmielnik. His town was soon occupied by the Germans, who made their intentions toward the Jewish population clear. Meanwhile, the Frierdiker
Rebbe was sending urgent messages to all the yeshiva students, begging them to go to Vilna which he believed would be a safe haven. Reluctantly, my greatgrandmother agreed to allow my grandfather to make the dangerous trip. She bid him farewell and gave him her precious ring, saying, “Use this in a time of dire need.” Vilna turned out to be only the first stop on a long journey, as the group of several dozen Lubavitch bochurim fled the German onslaught. Eventually, they arrived in Shanghai, where they established a yeshiva in exile. There was only one problem: they had no seforim and no money. It was then that my grandfather decided to pawn his mother’s ring. With the money, he purchased seforim from another exiled Jew in the city. Many of them were rare
Rabbi Bukiet with a sefer in his hand at the Agudas Chasidei Chabad Library. (Photo: Agudas Chasidei Chabad Library)
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editions signed by great rabbinical figures. After the war, the group of Lubavitch bochurim made their way to the United States on a ship organized by the Frierdiker Rebbe, who was now in New York. They were greeted with great joy at Chabad headquarters - 770 Eastern Parkway and went on to become notable chassidim and Shluchim. My grandfather settled down in Brooklyn. His love of learning required a large library, and he decided to sell some of the rare seforim he had purchased in Shanghai to pay for more books. That was how the sefer with the Chofetz Chayim’s signature passed out of his hands, a priceless treasure sacrificed to his insatiable hunger for Torah. By the time he passed away in
Rabbi Bukiet learning a the Central Tomchei Tmimim Lubavitch Yeshivah. (Photo: Lubavitch Archives)
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1998, he had more seforim than he could count. I was studying in Israel at the time and did not return for the levaya and shiva. When I did, I thought more about my grandmother than of the books. I dreaded seeing my kind, gracious bubbe devastated by her husband’s loss. The first visit was as difficult as I had feared. As my grandmother sat sobbing in the kitchen, I walked around the apartment. Now, I realized, I had missed an important opportunity. The shelves were bare. Uncles, aunts, siblings, and cousins had emptied them. There was almost nothing left to take. It hurt, but I understood. He had been their grandfather too. Recalling the last time I had spent Shabbos there, I made my way to the dining room/living room. In the corner was my grandfather’s favorite recliner. There he would sit, shokkeling to and fro, humming a tune, his eyes glued to the sefer in his hand. There he would learn his daily shiurim, and there he would take the tens of phone calls, the shaalos that he received as the chairman of Vaad Rabonei Lubavitch. I looked at the chair’s worn-out pink material. I could only imagine how much good had
been done from this humble piece of furniture. Next to the chair stood yet another bookshelf, where he kept the seforim he used most often. It was almost full, a testament to the poor state of the books—many were literally in tatters. There was his prized Rambam, which he used for his daily study regimen, and there was his one-volume Shulchan Aruch of the Alter Rebbe. At some point, it had fallen apart and been rebound with the cover from a different sefer (that had also fallen apart). I took it out and admired it. How many times had he used it to answer difficult questions? How many people had he aided in their struggles as he leafed through the brittle pages? This was going to be my heirloom, I decided. Its market value was probably nothing, but to me it was precious. It was a tangible expression of my zaide’s love for learning.
The volume came in especially handy recently, when I was working on a project of a basic introduction to Judaism for those interested in learning more about their heritage. It seemed appropriate that it should be written using my grandfather’s well-worn sefer. “Judaism in a Nutshell” is dedicated to my dear zaide, in tribute to a life devoted to Torah. n
Born and bred in Crown
Today, it sits on a shelf in my office among my relatively new and beautifully bound seforim. I do not answer questions in halacha like my grandfather did. But I make a point of using it when I need to look something up. I know my grandfather would not want it to go unused.
Heights, Dovid Zaklikowski is a writer, author and historian. He lives with his wife, Chana Raizel, and their five children, Motti, Meir, Shaina, Benny and Mendel in Crown Heights. His books are available in Jewish bookstores, on HasidicArchives.com and Amazon.com
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THE REBBE’S ARSENAL OF
TANKS It’s a dazzling sight that
bochrim did throughout the
thousands look forward to every
years. Whoever got cars, did
Chanukah – the Menorah
parades. Before we took over,
Parade whizzing through the
there were maybe 25 cars on
streets, lively music blaring,
average on Chanukah. Some
children shouting “Happy
years, if there were bochrim
Chanukah” to pedestrians,
interested in arranging it, it was
stopping on corners to hand out
done, if not, it didn’t happen.”
doughnuts and Menorahs.
BRINGING LIGHT TO THE STREETS OF NEW YORK CITY IS A CAREFULLY PLANNED EFFORT
BY SARA TRAPPLER SPIELMAN
Photos courtesy of RebbeDrive
Building on the success of the
setting up contacts. In the past, there
Mitzvah Tanks have become
Mitzvah tank parades for Yud
were 5 or 6 tanks, compared to 30 or
synonymous with Chanukah in
Alef Nissan – which Hirsch and
35 tanks now. Bochurim usually rented
the Big Apple.
Schmukler started together 23
Cadillacs because tanks were so
years ago under the auspices of
expensive and demanded
Lubavitch Youth Organization --
experienced, vetted drivers.
Behind the scenes of this spectacular parade – the largest in the world – is a multi-faceted team involved in strategically planning an event that began with a handful of cars driving
they began the Chanukah operation four years later, until it grew into the monumental accomplishment it is today.
together to Manhattan many
It didn’t come without
years prior.
challenges at first and still
“We inherited the parade,” organizer Mordy Hirsch said, referring to himself and Moishe Schmukler. “It was something
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requires months of preparation every year, including trips Schmukler takes across the country to RV headquarters
“There used to be very few classes [of yeshiva students] who could afford a tank,” Schmukler said. “We became like their travel agent.” Instead of young students going to expensive companies not knowing where or how to navigate affordable prices, Schmukler went to RV companies and guaranteed a price through them, becoming the middle
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OUTREACH
1991 than a car.’ We did everything
throughout the night. They also
for them. We vetted drivers,
work with the sanitation
made sure they had enough
department, highway patrol,
money, told them what gas and
and activist Devorah
tolls cost, which parkways to
Halberstam. In addition, they
stay off of… All the things that
coordinate with Rabbi Shmuel
over the years caused so much
Butman to drive by the lighting
headache in Crown Heights, like
of the World’s Largest Menorah,
The first year they sealed a deal
mess and garbage that caused
when it takes place on Motzei
and rented 18 tanks. Schmukler
police and sanitation to be
Shabbos on 5th Avenue,
now has professional
upset, we made it organized,”
ensuring he lights at the same
relationships, flying to
explained Hirsch.
time as the parade arrives.
The team works closely with the
Although it’s a big operation,
NYC police, especially the 71st
the organizers take into
“There was a slogan: ‘Today it’s
precinct, who arrange parking
consideration everything to the
easier to rent a Mitzvah tank
for the tanks and check on them
smallest detail, in order to think
man between driver and tank. Before Chanukah 19 years ago, the idea was born: to be upfront, reveal to RV companies what they are doing with so many tanks, rent it as a block and ensure safety.
headquarters of different RV locations every year.
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1974
what the Rebbe wants on Chanukah. The tanks are run by boys for the parade and all through Chanukah. “I’ve watched kids say year after year, ‘I don’t want to go to a party, but I want to go on mivtzoim on a tank.’ It’s their first real exposure to mivtzoim. Mothers say they can’t get their kids motivated with other stuff, but here, the boys are thrilled to take part,” Hirsch said.
of the community’s needs. They
parents. Every tank has a class
secure all the tanks on President
mother coordinating who goes
Street, since it’s a wide street
each night.
with fewer residents, to make parking easier.
Groups of students raise money in advance, starting from Rosh
Their detailed rules en route,
Chodesh Kislev, working hand
such as where they can park or
in hand with the organizers “so
deposit garbage, ensures a
kids feel it’s their tank, yet
smooth run. “A parent has to
there’s a layer of responsibility
drive, not just a bochur. They
that we’re putting on to make
have to be back in time
sure it’s a success,” Hirsch said.
because of yeshivah the next day and the music must be off when they come back into Crown Heights so they don’t wake sleeping children,” Schmukler said. Working now with all boys schools in Crown Heights, particularly for 7th and 8th grades, Schmukler and Hirsch meet with every principal and speak to students in classes, forming partnerships with
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Young students learn budgeting, delegation and social skills, and hone their outreach talents while doing
Now, throughout Chanukah, it’s a common sight to run into 3 or 4 tanks anywhere in the city. “It’s a very powerful part of the Rebbe’s arsenal,” Hirsch continued. “The tanks go to the front line, they go through hard places, they get to people who otherwise can’t be gotten to, it’s the marines in the Rebbe’s war against assimilation.” In 1974, soon after the Yom Kippur war, the Rebbe had already initiated a few campaigns by then, and
“THE TANKS GO TO THE FRONT LINE, THEY GO THROUGH HARD PLACES, THEY GET TO PEOPLE WHO OTHERWISE CAN’T BE GOTTEN TO, IT’S THE MARINES IN THE REBBE’S WAR AGAINST ASSIMILATION”
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Chassidim were looking for
Once, the Rebbe walked by a
Schmukler shared a humorous
creative ways to bring tefilin to
truck outside 770 and said,
story of a bochur calling an RV
the streets. They used trucks
“This is a tank against
company for a tank and was
back then - not tanks – and tried
assimilation.” The Rebbe
told to call the U.S. army.
to promote the campaigns by
created a new category, Hirsch
Nowadays, however, all the
going to the city.
believes, which has its own
heads of RV companies
unique mission.
Schmukler works with use the
Rabbi Kasriel Kastel from Tzach
lingo themselves, calling them
remembered that the first truck
“Thousands are getting
went out with loudspeakers
Menorahs, we’re bringing
promoting campaigns of the
excitement to Chanukah that
Now they own two tanks that go
time. Rabbi Sholom Duchman
people won’t get elsewhere. A
to Wall Street and Park Avenue
helped start it with some
lot of them are roaming the
with bochrim every Friday, as well
Israelis and took it to 5th
streets, they are lonely, lacking
as renting pick up trucks as
Avenue, just driving up and
meaning. They enter a
Sukkah mobiles for shluchim,
down with speakers, not even
welcoming environment
bochrim and restaurants during
getting out. At one point they
sheltered from the hustle and
the Sukkos holiday.
stopped for a drink and
bustle of Fifth Avenue and
someone asked what it was
experience yiddishkeit in a
about, which led to exchanging
way that they don’t get
phone numbers. And so the
anywhere else in Manhattan
concept of using a Mitzvah tank
with non-judgmental bochrim
for Mivtzoim was born.
department and shluchim
who just want to bring the
department, which reach out in
messages of the Rebbe out
the Tri-State area to get tanks to
there to the masses. So a tank
enhance Menorah lightings or
is the perfect vehicle for that.
do mivtzoim at a mall. There’s
That’s why I dedicated my life
also a driver department, which
to Mitzvah tanks.”
oversees drivers each night,
1974
“tanks” in place of RVs.
Hirsch and Schmukler are strong partners, teaming up with many others, including Chanukah project directors, a group
1974
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getting tanks moving along
2011
legally and returned properly, and a dispatch like in an airport, who knows when tanks are going out, and to where. Schmukler does walkthrough and damage checks so when drivers show up they just sign and drive off. He checks everything, even marking tape with how much gas there was when rented (he rents from NY, NJ or CT locations). Parade directors are focused on the parade itself, registering cars with the police department, while Shmuly Shuchat runs databases and the IP department. Many Crown Heights families register for the parade approximately 300 families participate in their cars – ordering car Menorahs, kits and doing mivtzoim with their children. Since everyone has to
mother in a vast city of non-
“TODAY IT’S EASIER TO RENT A MITZVAH TANK THAN A CAR”
be ready and synchronize to leave at the same time, the
“The parade is not always
organizers came up with
perfect in one lane, sometimes
schedules and manuals of how
it breaks up, as it is hard driving
to pull off a parade of this size,
through with so much traffic,
coordinating different zones for
but it’s not an issue because
cars, leaving and returning
there are so many people on
systematically. Led by tanks,
the streets that see the cars
followed by cars, the parade
coming past,” Schmukler
sometimes double up in
explained.
Brooklyn lanes and in Manhattan
He described a scene he once
use triple lanes just to be able to
witnessed of a little girl with her
move together efficiently.
30 COLlive Magazine
Jewish holiday sights and the child looked so proud to have something that’s hers. “Just from driving by with a Menorah on your car affects people’s lives,” Schmukler said. “Car Menorahs have become more accessible. When you drive around the whole week, even before Chanukah, and people see it on the car, you never know what you’re accomplishing by just one person seeing it.” This year’s parade will take place on Monday night, the second night of Chanukah, at the height of holiday shopping season when hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world – both Jews and non-Jews -- come to shop at this destination city. “We aim for that, for the busiest time, for the biggest pirsumei nissa,” Schmukler said. n
COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:47 AM Page 31
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COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:47 AM Page 32
CHANUKAH 5748 WITH THE REBBE Never before released photos of Chanukah in 5748 (1987) show the Rebbe during Menorah lighting at 770 Eastern Parkway with chassidim and children Courtesy of Hasidic Archives
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FLASHBACK CATEGORY
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Chanukah happenings Lighting of Brooklyn’s Largest Menorah at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn Sunday, December 22, the first night of Chanukah, Grand Kickoff Concert at 4:30 pm Live music, gifts for the children, special program. A bone marrow donor and recipient will meet for the first time at this special event! Every night of Chanukah beginning Dec. 23 at 6 pm Saturday night at 7:15 pm
Nightly Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Wonderland in the Five Towns, Long Island • Nightly Grand Menorah Lighting - every night at 6:00 PM at Andrew J. Parise - Cedarhurst Park and Friday at 3:00 PM • Special Glow Night at the Menorah on Monday, December 23 • Car Menorah Parade in the Five Towns, following the grand Menorah lighting on Thursday, December 26 RSVP Required • Chanukah Experience - Sunday and Monday December 29 and 30 at Chabad of the Five towns
Friday 3:30 pm
For more information and details: www.ChabadFiveTowns.com / 516.295.2478
Lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah
Chabad Chanukah Telethon
On Fifth Avenue in New York City Nightly lighting beginning Sunday, 24 Kislev - December 22 at 5:30 PM. On Friday, 29 Kislev - December 27, at 3:30 PM. On Saturday night, 30 Kislev - December 28, at 8:30 PM The World’s Largest Chanukah Menorah will be lit again this year during the Chanukah festival at New York’s most fashionable plaza, Fifth Avenue and 59th Street, by Central Park, between the Plaza and the Pierre Hotels, with live music and Latkes each night.
Annual Menorah Parade in NYC The grand Menorah parade will take place on Monday, 25 Kislev - December 23, the second night of Chanukah at 5:00 pm. The parade of Car Menorahs and Mitzvah Tanks will depart from Kingston Avenue and Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights at 5:00 pm and will spread the light of Chanukah throughout the streets of New York City. The parade is organized by the Mitzvah Tank Organization, under the auspices of Lubavitch Youth Organization. For more info visit MenorahParade.NYC.
36 COLlive Magazine
Tune in: The Chabad Chanukah Telethon will be broadcast live with dancing Rabbis and special guests. Watch live Sunday Dec 22, 2019 at 7pm to 11pm Chabad of Mineola’s annual Telethon is one of the most watched Jewish event of the year with hundreds of thousands tuning in on www.chanukahtelethon.com. On TV: RCN Channel 16 Optimum Altice - 6, 19, 48 Spectrum - 22, 91 Dish 62 Direct TV - Ch 48, 3, 88 JBS Jewish Broadcasting Service Optimum Altice - Ch 138 Spectrum - Ch 219 Fios Verizon - Ch - 798 Direct TV - Ch 388 COMCAST: Chl 19 (NJ), Chl 25 (CT) FIOS VERIZON: Ch 6, 798
A project of NCFJE Chabad of Mineola
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COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:48 AM Page 38
CHANUKAH
Photo: Shimon Roumani
38 COLlive Magazine
World’s Largest Menorah Stands
Tall
Photo: Shimon Roumani
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Chanukah at New York’s most fashionable plaza Then NY City Mayor Michael Bloomberg joined Rabbi Shmuel Butman for the lighting of the Menorah.
“It has long been a joyous
increasing the pirsumei nissa.
Schumer and other dignitaries.
New York City since it was first
This is all part of the campaign
Rabbi Shmuel Butman,
erected in 1977,” the New
started by the Rebbe in 1973.
Director of Lubavitch Youth
fixture of the holiday season in
York Times wrote about the World’s Largest Menorah in a glowing article last year. For many, the gold-colored Menorah that stands at New York’s most fashionable Plaza, on Fifth Avenue and 59th Street, near Central Park, between the Plaza and the Pierre hotels, is a source of Jewish pride.
Organization (“Tzach”), says Certified by Guinness World
it was specially designed by
Records as the world’s largest,
world-renowned artist
the Menorah rises to 36 feet and weighs 4000 pounds. It is lit on genuine oil in glass chimneys to protect the light from the Central Park winds. Due to its height, it is lit with the help of a special 45-foot “cherry-picker” crane as well as two lifts on both sides of the Menorah.
Yaacov Agam. Inspiration for the design came from the hand drawing by the Rambam showing the straight, diagonal branches of the original Menorah in the Beis Hamikdash. “The Menorah has the singular honor of standing in miniature
The lighting each night of
Honored over the years with
on the desk of the Rebbe,”
Chanukah, for over 40 years
going up on the crane were
Rabbi Butman notes. “The
now, is a central event for
Mayors Abraham Beame, Ed
Rebbe personally approved
millions of residents of New
Koch, David Dinkins, Rudy
the form of the Menorah. It
York and visitors to the Big
Giuliani, Michael Bloomberg
was only after the Rebbe’s
Apple. Photos and selfies with
and Bill de Blasio, Governors
personal approval that the
the Menorah are shared by
George Pataki and David
Menorah was built to its
many on social media,
Paterson, Senator Chuck
present dimensions.”
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CHANUKAH
the nationa jewish monum THE MOST VIEWED MENORAH LIGHTING HAPPENS JUST ACROSS FROM THE WHITE HOUSE
One of the most prominent
all 50 US states and around
more and greater public
public Chanukah programs in
the world.
Menorah lighting ceremonies
lighting ceremony of the
Standing tall with the
the essence of the celebration
National Chanukah Menorah
Washington Monument
– to increasingly proclaim and
on the Ellipse, just across from
commemorating America’s first
celebrate the miracle of
the White House in
president and the White
Chanukah – The Festival of
Washington, DC.
House behind it, this Menorah
Lights, in the most public
is highly visible from the
manner possible.
The lighting of this golden
nearby government buildings,
branched Menorah is attended
world-class museums and the
In this way, we actively reaffirm
by thousands every year and
through traffic Constitution
the celebration of our
seen via TV newscasts,
Avenue. It can be considered
freedom, inspired by the
internet feeds and other
the national Jewish monument
historic and present victory of
media across the nation and
of sorts.
right over might, light over
around the world, many of
darkness, and understanding
them hundreds of miles from
Indeed, this Menorah has
and justice over intolerance
any Jewish community. Last
become a premier national
and bigotry, says Rabbi Levi
year’s ceremony reached a
and even international symbol
Shemtov, Head Shliach of
record amount of people, with
of the festival of Chanukah,
Washington, DC and
tens of millions watching it on
inspiring many communities
Executive Vice President of
nearly 1,000 TV newscasts in
across the globe to sponsor
American Friends of Lubavitch.
40 COLlive Magazine
Photos by Shimi Kutner
of their own. After all, this is
the world is the annual
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Photos by Shimi Kutner
al ment
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Ever since the first Menorah on public property in the United States was lit at Independence Mall in 1974, the unifying initiative of public Menorah lightings has become a sensation at prestigious, even unimaginable locations such as the Sydney Opera House, Moscow’s Red Square, Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate, Hong Kong Harbor, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Independence Mall in Philadelphia and, obviously, the Kotel in Jerusalem. “We are proud to have played an active organizing role in nearly all of these festivities,” says Rabbi Shemtov. n
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6 MOST UNIQU MENO This Menorah created with sand on a beach in Miami Beach may not last long, but it got the shape of the Menorah accurately, following the Rambam’s drawing @Joseph_Waks
“Officers Yitzy K. and Gene P. of the NYPD 61st Precinct in Brooklyn escorted the car Menorah parade of Chabad of Sheepshead Bay. When we suggested they put on a Menorah on their police vehicle, they were thrilled and left it on for the rest of the evening.” Rabbi Shlomo Z. & Tzippy Cohen
“It was our first Chanukah on the island and we needed a big Menorah. What better Menorah for Maui than one made with indigenous material? Working together with a local Israeli, the Tiki Torch Menorah became real! Out of necessity, it became a wonderful chance for pirsumei nisa We’re so excited to pull it out again this year and share the light ‘island style’.” -Chabad of Maui @JewishMaui 44 COLlive Magazine
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UE ORAHS
Every year, Jewish minds come up with creative ways to publicize the miracle of Chanukah by constructing and displaying Menorahs in unique places or materials.
There’s no car too fancy for a Menorah! Shluchim Itche and Chana’le Itkin decked out this Ferrari for the Kansas City Menorah Car Parade in 2016. Chabad of Kansas City, 2016
The Basketball Menorah blends in perfectly when thousands of Jewish fans fill Barclays Stadium in Brooklyn for Jewish Heritage Night. The CTeen youth organization, a division of Merkos 302, kindles this Menorah with a resounding blessing. Photo: Itzik Roytman
Eight short surfboards and one longboard make up the iconic Menorah that is displayed at the Laguna Main Beach each year by the Chabad Jewish Center of Laguna Beach. The Menorah was designed by Steve Sasche and built by local contractors, with all nine surfboards donated by friends, congregants and Laguna Beach locals. - Chabad of Laguna Beach, CA @chabad_lagunabeach Kislev 5780 Edition
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COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:49 AM Page 47
HEALTH
A CROWN HEIGHTS PEDIATRICIAN EXPLAINS HOW TO AVOID THE INFLUENZA VIRUS AND WHAT TO DO IF YOU GET IT By Avraham J. Gottesman, MD
As surely as the leaves change
specific common symptoms.
dangerous illness. This is
colors and a chill in the air
These include high fever,
especially true for young
makes us dig out our winter
headache, muscle aches, and
children, the elderly, pregnant
clothes, the Influenza virus or
a sore throat. The illness also
women, and those with
“the flu” shows up mid to late
tends to last longer than most
chronic illnesses.
fall in the United States.
common colds and to be
Complications of flu can
more severe.
include bacterial pneumonia,
The flu can be thought of as a bad cold that has some
ear infections, sinus infections Seasonal flu can be a
and worsening of chronic
Kislev 5780 Edition
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medical conditions, such as
with flu symptoms, the
often, even when people feel
congestive heart failure,
doctor may treat accordingly
better and are back in the
asthma, or diabetes.
without testing.
community they can continue
Many wintertime viruses give
The flu is very contagious and
Therefore, it is very important
similar symptoms. Doctors will
the contagion can last for a
for people recovering from
often refer to these as “flu-
while. Any droplets from the
the flu to be extra careful to
like illnesses” because
eyes, mouth, or nose of the
cover their mouths when they
without specific testing it can
sick person easily spread by
cough, throw away dirty
to spread the illness.
tissues, and of course wash hands or use hand sanitizer. It is best for all of us to make a
“OFTEN, EVEN WHEN PEOPLE FEEL BETTER AND ARE BACK IN THE COMMUNITY THEY CAN CONTINUE TO SPREAD THE ILLNESS.”
habit of not touching our mouth and eyes especially when we are out in public. This particularly applies to children, caregivers and food handlers. Another way to prevent the spread of flu is by getting a flu shot. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot. For those who are at higher risk of getting
copyright © RISING: The Book of Challah by Rochie Pinson / Feldheim 2017
be difficult to differentiate
coughing, touching surfaces
serious complications from
between various viruses.
with contaminated hands, and
the flu, such as young
Rapid tests for the flu are
food handling.
children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with
available but are not completely reliable. Many
The best way to prevent the
chronic medical conditions, it
doctors and hospitals prefer
spread of flu is by practicing
is particularly important that
to use their clinical judgment
good hand hygiene and
they are vaccinated.
rather than testing. For
keeping sick people home.
Vaccination is also important
example, if the flu is
The sick person is most
for health care workers and
circulating in a community or
contagious while they have a
others who live with or care
family, and a patient presents
fever and feel ill. However,
for high-risk people to keep
48 COLlive Magazine
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from spreading the flu to
benefit in preventing other
them.
causes of cold symptoms.
The effectiveness of the flu
While there is no medication
shot varies from year to year.
to cure the flu, there is
This is because the flu illness
medication such as Tamiflu
changes every year and
that can shorten the disease
because there are many strains
duration and lessen its
that circulate. The better the
severity. When taken within 48
match between the vaccine
hours of the onset of the
and the circulating strains the
illness, Tamiflu can cut down
more effective the vaccine will
the length of illness by about
be. Over the past 15 years, the
a day. It also may decrease
vaccine effectiveness has
the risk of severe
averaged >35% with some
complications or
years being much higher. The
hospitalization. The decision
vaccine also appears to
to prescribe Tamiflu is
decrease the severity of the
different in every case and
Dr. Avraham Gottesman is a
illness even if you do get the
should be discussed with your
board-certified doctor
flu. Although the vaccine is far
doctor.
specializing in pediatrics.
from perfect, it leads to a dramatic decrease in illness,
In most cases, the best
hospitalization and deaths,
remedy for flu is rest, fluids,
particularly in high-risk people.
and medications such as
AVRAHAM J. GOTTESMAN, MD
He graduated from Albert Einstein School of Medicine and received his pediatric
Tylenol or Motrin to treat
training at Long Island
Despite the common
symptoms. It is important to
Jewish Medical Center. He
misconception, you cannot get
stay home until you have
has been a practicing
the flu from the vaccine. This
gone at least 24 hours without
pediatric doctor and has
misconception comes from the
fever, and symptoms have
served the Crown Heights
fact that people get the shot
improved to the point where
community for over 12
during flu season. Inevitably,
you no longer risk spreading
some people will come down
the virus through coughing
with a flu-like illness right after
and/or sneezing. Flu season
getting the vaccine but it is
peaks December through
not from the shot.
February but can last as late as until May.
Additionally, it is important to note that the vaccine only
May we all have a healthy and
helps with the flu. It has no
safe winter. n
years. His practice is located at 555 Lefferts Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, Tel- 646-757-8751.
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PARENTING A DIFFICULT TEEN BY RABBI DANIEL SCHONUCH, LMFT
Dear Rabbi Schonbuch, My son just turned 15 and I’m having trouble communicating with him about his yiddishkeit and behavior. What should I do? — A concerned parent Dear concerned parent,
challenging times in the life
Despite your tension with
of a child and their parents.
him, it would be helpful to
Assuming that your son just
notice that his greatest
started Mesivta (High School),
Around this age, your child
challenges lie outside of the
I can only imagine some of
has turned into a young
home - and may have
the difficulties you are having.
teenager and is dealing with
nothing to do with you as a
This is one of the most
many new challenges.
parent.
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CHINUCH At this critical juncture in your
the more you can benefit
Communication also matters.
son’s life, he is dealing with
from it.
In general, positive statements, complimenting
new academic challenges, peer pressure, and beginning
The way to develop your
him, sharing appreciations
to question some of the
emotional wealth is to invest
and speaking kind words are
values he grew up with.
as much positive equity as
“deposits.” Every time you
Internet access and
possible, so when the going
tell your son that you
smartphone use can expose
gets tough (especially with
appreciate him or his actions,
him to new ideas and
your teenage son), you can
you are building more
possibly inappropriate
dig into your savings without
emotional wealth.
content that can make his
going into the red. By changing from direct
behavior even worse. I suggest that instead of
control to building a
The main point here is to
fighting and trying to control
relationship and influencing
stop assuming that you will
him, schedule weekly time
your son, you have begun to
“IT WOULD BE HELPFUL TO NOTICE THAT HIS GREATEST CHALLENGES LIE OUTSIDE OF THE HOME - AND MAY HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH YOU AS A PARENT.” somehow change your son
alone with him to focus on your
make a paradigm shift that
(or restore him to the little
relationship. Despite the
will help you enjoy his
child you once knew).
pressures of your busy
teenage years and reduce
Instead, you need to
schedule, carve out some time
tension. Successful parents
embrace a new paradigm
to take him to eat at a
try to maintain the paradigm
about your relationship.
restaurant or a walk around the
shift and by doing so, create
block together, go shopping, or
an environment for personal
I often share with my clients a
even take him to play ball in
change and growth.
simple yet powerful analogy:
the park. Of course, if you’ve been
Think about your relationship as you do your bank account.
Try to enjoy a few minutes
fighting with your teenager, it’s
Investing in your relationship
alone just schmoozing. What
never too late to apologize
is similar to saving money;
matters most is to give your son
and explain to him your new
the more you put into your
the feeling that he is the most
position. Authentic
bank account or relationship,
important person in the world.
apologizing necessitates
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hearing out how someone felt
you anymore. I will be here as
Some parents may feel that
about something you may have
a friend who will give you
this is akin to agreeing to
said or done, without justifying
advice only when you want it.”
negative behavior. However,
your actions. To listen deeply
as we have previously
and apologize can be
Of course, words are not
discussed, parents no longer
challenging, but the results are
enough. They must be
yield full control over their
worthwhile. It’s not really about
followed up with actions.
being right or wrong, it’s
Improve your connection,
acknowledging
reduce control, and stay
the hurt.
teenagers and would have an easier time if they would be more flexible and accept their teenager’s differences.
but teenagers are old enough
“THE WARMER AND MORE LOVING AND FUN WE MAKE OUR HOMES, THE MORE OUR CHILDREN WILL WANT TO BE CONNECTED TO YIDDISHKEIT AND TO US.”
to appreciate this type
within the guidelines of
and fun we make our homes,
of reconciliation.
positive and compassionate
the more our children will want
communication.
to be connected to Yiddishkeit
If your relationship has been very rough, I suggest you verbally declare your intent to restart the relationship. Here is one way to say it: “I’m sorry we have had a difficult relationship over the years. I will no longer fight with you or try to control you. I would just like to have a good relationship with you.” For some parents, these words may seem hard to say,
Imagine that someone you This process may take time.
many years said, “I’ve been
Be patient. And when your
thinking a lot about our
teenager sees that you are no
relationship, and how our
longer criticizing or controlling
fighting has driven us further
him, he will begin to trust you
we stop fighting and start over again? I promise not to nag, bother, and attack or criticize
52 COLlive Magazine
of weakness; rather, it is part of an overall strategy to regain momentum in the relationship. In regards to Yiddishkeit, keeping yourself inspired and connected will model for your teen how to serve Hashem. Even if you don’t always see the behavior you would like, we are all a “work in progress”. Now, you can only plant seeds. The warmer and more loving
and to us. n
have been fighting with for
and further apart. How about
Reducing control is not a sign
and be open to having a more meaningful relationship.
Rabbi Daniel Schonbuch, LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) is renowned for improving the emotional lives of individuals, couples and families. He is the author of 4 books. He can be reached at www.ItWillBeGood.com or 646-428-4723.
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Money talks. We translate.
732.987.7765
/
WWW.SELLMILESNOW.COM
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A FOOD DESTINATION Like No Other Editor of Fleishings Magazine reflects on the third kosher food crawl By Shifra Klein
The third Taste of Crown Heights food crawl, benefiting Toys For Hospitalized Children and sponsored by COLlive.com, The View Optique & Hal’s New York Seltzer, truly represented how Crown Heights has become a kosher hotspot. Over 20 food spots showcased their specialties to a crowd of kosher diners from all walks of life. It is fascinating to me, as a Crown
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KOSHER
Heights native, how this
sourdough is trending in the
neighborhood expanded from
kosher market. This naturally
a hub for Lubavitchers
leavened bread (no
worldwide to an established
commercial yeast whatsoever)
food destination like no other.
is a true art form that Crust has perfected.
Crown Heights has enough food options to satisfy every
We walked up Kingston to try
palate and budget. From basic
food from Meat and Agripas,
staples like pizza, falafel
who both share sister
(Essen) sushi (Sushi Spot),
restaurants in Crown Heights.
Chinese (Prime Avenue),
Meat NY is the brainchild of
bagels, deli (Mendy’s) and
Dani Branover of Basil and
bakery (Albany Bake Shop), to
Agripas is the fast-casual spot
fun spots like Beouf & Bun,
opened by Judah Schlass and
Izzy’s Smokehouse, Izzy’s Fried
Chef Elior Balbul of Alenbi.
Chicken, Gruit, Mozzarella, to
Meat executive chef Rayim
the more upscale Basil, Meat
served an update on meat and
and Alenbi — it can take a real
potatoes with yukon gold
professional over a month of
potatoes, homemade garlic
eating out to really grasp the
aioli and house-cured
full impact of the Crown
charcuterie. Alenbi (and
Heights food scene.
Agripas) executive chef Elior Balbul served out of this world
Our first stop for the crawl was
melt-in-your-mouth pulled
Gruit, the newest restaurant to
tongue in a harissa-like sauce
join the impressive lineup of
with creamy tahini and pops of
Crown Heights restaurants.
fresh herbs.
Gruit served up the creamiest most luscious liver mousse
We really appreciated the
that the chef paired with a
hospitality Mermelstien’s
blueberry agrodolce, which
brought to the crawl. A huge
was a sweet and tangy
buffet of many of their classics,
complement to the rich liver.
and drinks and cups were a
Right next door (at the crawl)
welcome surprise. Mama’s
was Crust Bakery, whose bread
Kitchen really impressed with
was truly outstanding and a
their mixed Jerusalem Grill. I
reflection of how much
love that they added liver to
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Photos by Shimi Kutner
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THIS NEIGHBORHOOD EXPANDED FROM A HUB FOR LUBAVITCHERS WORLDWIDE TO AN ESTABLISHED FOOD DESTINATION LIKE NO OTHER the mix and included their signature creamy hummus as well. The Boozery showcased their hit sorbets which everyone around me couldn’t stop praising. Across the street, TableOne Catering served crunchy chicken lollipops with an array of dipping sauces that made the experience more exciting. We heard incredible feedback about the pastry and most specifically the sfinj from Koshertown and the sushi from Sushi Spot. The chicken fingers from Empire Grill were also a huge hit. It was inspiring to walk the streets in Crown Heights and meet fellow Jews from all walks of life, celebrating k o s h e r food for a good cause. n
Shifra Klein is the founder and editor of Fleishigs magazine, the newest kosher food magazine to hit the foodie scene. Check out their new Travel Issue with guest editor Dani Klein of @yeahthatskosher. No passport is needed to join their search for the best getaways, including 5 cities you must visit, the top 5 cruises, the latest trends in travel, destination weddings like you have never seen and food tours. Subscribe at www.fleishigs.com and follow them @fleishigsmag
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Tzfasman Jewelers | 718.774.2770 | 551 Crown St, Brooklyn, NY 11213
@tzfasmanjewelers
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ALENBI
Crown Heights Kosher Food Guide
Kosher restaurant presenting refined Israeli plates in a chic, modern space with large windows. Kosher Certification: OK 887 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 529-3739
Albany Bakery Local bakery 339 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 778-1733
BAKERIE Modern bakery for kosher breads, sweets & daytime noshes with housemade spreads & coffee. Kosher Certification: OK Kosher 252 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 693-8248
Baguette Express Israeli style falafel, shwarma and sandwiches. Kosher Certification: CHK 250 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 Phone: (718) 484-7814
Basil Pizza & Wine Bar Kosher pizzeria & wine bar offering wood-fired pies & other Italian fare in a homey-sleek setting. Kosher Certification: OU 270 Kingston Av, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 285-8777
by Toiby Hayes
Boeuf & Bun Innovative, handcrafted burgers pair with a variety of craft beers at this upbeat locale. Kosher Certification: CHK 271 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 221-8900
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Benny’s Brick Oven Pizza Dark wood & exposed brick adorn the interior of this upmarket pizzeria with specialty slices. Kosher Certification: OK 419 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11230 Phone: (718) 484-4817
Brooklyn Artisan Bakehouse Rustic decor, down to earth ambiance and flavorful menu. Kosher Certification: OK 529 E New York Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 292-1382
Bunch-O-Bagels Cafe offering bagels plus a roster of entrees, omelets, salads, sandwiches & pasta dishes. Kosher Certification: OK 361 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 604-0634
Gruit A neighborhood restaurant & garden with a modern American kitchen and strong focus on seasonality & cocktails. Kosher Certification: OK Kosher 252 Empire Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (347) 846-0622
Holesome Bagels Bustling shop offering house-baked bagels, breakfast, sandwiches, pizza & salads. Kosher Certification: CHK 333 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 955-5300
Izzy’s BBQ Smokehouse Kosher BYOB barbecue restaurant serving platters, sandwiches, sides & desserts in hip digs. Kosher Certification: OK 397 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 425-0524
Chocolatte Bright & Modern cafe in crown heights, free WiFi Open 24 hours. Kosher Certification: CHK 792 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11213
Empire Grill Full-service eatery for an assortment of sandwiches, & Chinese food. Kosher Certification: CHK 597 Empire Blvd, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 221-8579
Ess And Bentch Offering hot dogs, shnitzel, sandwiches and french fries Kosher Certification: CHK 313 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 705-7770
Gombo’s Heimishe Bakery Counter-serve bakery specializing in jelly doughnuts, plus other sweets, sandwiches & coffee. 328 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 771-7701
Izzy’s Fried Chicken With fried chicken and waffles and fish and grits, Izzys Fried Chicken serves southern comfort and soul food. Kosher Certification: OK 262 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 925-2242
Izzy’s Taqueria Kosher restaurant serving Mexican cuisine next door to the flagship izzy’s BBQ. Kosher Certification: OK 399 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 975-2295
Kingston Bake Shop Kosher Certification: CHK 380 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (718) 467-2047
Koshertown Cafe Kosher Certification: CHK 469 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
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MEAT MEAT is where food and design meet. Extremely elegant restaurant featuring modern Mediterranean cuisine. Kosher Certification: OU 123 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (516) 888-1730
Mendy’s Mendy’s Deli is the place to go for burger, a delicious steak,or a heAvenly sandwich. Kosher Certification: CHK 792 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 907-8877
Phomen Easygoing Kosher Vietnamese restaurant specializing in pho & ramen noodle selections. Kosher Certification: CHK 411 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 697-1947
Sauce N Cheese Stop-in kosher pizzeria offering slices, calzones & salads in a simple counter-serve setting. Kosher Certification: CHK 509 Albany Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203 Phone: (347) 425-1450
Mermelstein’s Deli & Home-style Jewish Food Kosher Certification:CHK 351 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 778-3100
Sushi Spot Fine Dining Dairy establishment conveniently located in Crown Heights. Kosher Certification: CHK 265 Troy Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (917) 633-6770
Noribar High quality Sushi meals using fresh ingredients and skilled preparation techniques. Kosher Certification: CHK 326 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (347) 913-8888
Prime Avenue Prime Avenue offers a delicious global menu that includes schnitzel sandwiches & Chinese dishes. Kosher Certification: CHK 377 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 576-6665
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Snug storefront offering both basic & specialty kosher sushi rolls for delivery & curb-side pickup. Kosher Certification: CHK 426 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225 Phone: (718) 756-4040
Sweet Expressions Ice cream shop, candies, chocolates and sweets Hot and cold shakes and smoothies. 310 Kingston Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: (718) 613-0188
takeout
Mozzarella
Dovid Malka 1552 Carroll Street 718-773-2335
Koshertown 469 Albany Ave phone 718-778-6171
The Marketplace 589 E New York Ave phone (718) 363-1300
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THE
FUTURE OF
CROWN HEIGHTS What do you care about? Safety on the Streets
Lower Tuition
Housing Shortage
Protecting Yeshivah Education Increased Zoning
State Support for our Schools
More assistance for needy families IT’S ALL POSSIBLE! GET I NVOLVED! This is your community!
Watch for
CENSUS INFORMATION coming soon
CROWN HEIGHTS JEWISH COMMUNITY COUNCIL Where you never need to pay us for: Medicaid and Food Stamps: application, renewal and changes Now – HEAP and other energy assistance Green Card and Citizenship 387 KINGSTON AVENUE, BROOKLYN, NY 11213 | 718-771-9000 | MAIL@CHJCC.ORG
COLlive Mag Kislev 2019 11-13__final-changes_Layout 1 11/14/2019 1:50 AM Page 62
Recipes
OVEN BAKED CHOCOLATE DOUGHNUTS TOPPED WITH A SWEET DOUGHNUT GLAZE AND SPRINKLES By Rivkah Krinsky Chanukah is a beautiful time to experience joy, light and connection with our families and friends. Doughnuts and latkes play a big role in our enjoyment together and we can do so with a healthy balance. With an array of delicious options to buy; jelly, dairy, custard (you name it) the amount of doughnuts we can consume can become overwhelming over the eight days of Chanukah. A lovely way to enjoy them and at the same time tone down the oil and feel lighter, would be to change it up some of the time with a healthy alternative as such that both kids and adults can create and enjoy in good health!
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Photos by Mushka Krinksy / @Mush_mkp
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Rivkah is a Certified Health Coach based in Brooklyn, NY with clients around the globe. She offers her guidance and expertise in weight loss, maintenance and energy through balanced healthy living. On her page you’ll find motivation to empower and recipes to inspire a healthy balanced lifestyle. Follow Rivkah on IG: @revive_with_rivkah FB: Revive with Rivkah Website: revivewithrivkah.com
INGREDIENTS: Makes approx 20 mini doughnuts or 8 regular size
UTENSILS: You will need regular size or mini size doughnut
1 egg
pans. They can be purchased at Kettle and Cord
1/4 cup cocoa powder
or Amazon. You can alternatively take your
1/2 cup coconut sugar
favorite muffin recipe and bake them in these
2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons coconut oil melted 1/4 cup almond milk 2 tbsp apple sauce 1 cup spelt flour
pans in addition to this recipe. Due to the baking method instead of deep frying, these doughnuts are lighter and healthier.
DIRECTIONS:
1 1/4 tsp baking soda
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease doughnut
1 tsp vanilla extract
pans with coconut spray. Mix wet ingredients in a bowl. Add dry and mix till combined. Spoon
GLAZE: 3 tbs cocoa powder
batter into doughnut molds 3/4 way full. Bake for 10 min till tester comes out clean. When cooled pop out of pans. Mix glaze ingredients
1 tbsp hot water
with a fork. Drizzle glaze on cooled doughnuts
3-4 tablespoons maple syrup
and add sprinkles.
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RECIPES
Itta Werdiger Roth is responsible for Mason & Mug and the Hester. She also wrote the official New York Times recipe for potato kugel.
In this recipe Itta Werdiger Roth uses her homemade Apple, Pear & Cinnamon Jam to create a delicious Chanukah doughnut. Preserving fruits while they’re at their peak is an age-old tradition. The cold north-east has produced tons and tons of different varieties of apples and pears, let’s take advantage as winter hits! Whether you just want to try something new, taste real fruit with less added sweeteners or use only organic ingredients, there is something quaint to the experience of cooking and then preserving this sweet delicacy. Spread it on toast, save it for your Hamentaschen or do what I like to do: Doctor up some fresh bakery doughnuts! Your home-made filling will be far superior to anything commercially made.
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JAM:
INGREDIENTS
3 lb. of apples and pears (unpeeled & roughly chopped) 2 sticks cinnamon pinch allspice pinch ground cardamom 2 lemons (juiced) 2 cups sugar 12 fresh Sufganiyot (Israeli style doughnuts, plain, no filling or icing)
GLAZE: 1 cup powdered sugar 1 tbsp whole milk (substitute brandy or soy/nut milk) ½ tsp vanilla extract
DIRECTIONS
1/8 of a nutmeg (freshly ground)
• Combine everything but the sugar in a heavy bottomed pot. Cover and turn the flame on low to simmer for 15-20 mins. Remove the cinnamon stick and discard. Using either a blender or stick mixer, puree ingredients. • Add sugar to the fruits & continue cooking for about 1½ hours stirring intermittently. (The fruits will spit a little, this is normal but watch out for burns!) Use a soft rubber spatula to regularly scrape the sides and bottom of the pot. Your jam will set as it cools. • Slice sufganiyot in half like a bagel and shmear jam on the bottom half, then cover with the top. • Whisk all icing ingredients together until smooth. Spoon icing over the center of doughnuts & watch as they drip. Let sit for 10 mins at room temp (or cooler) until icing hardens and you’re ready
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PLAYING WITH FIRE! A HUMOROUS SAFETY PRIMER FOR CHANUKAH (SOME OF WHICH MIGHT BE USEFUL) BY MORDECHAI SCHMUTTER
1
The safest place to light your
hurts for that first second. And then
no dreidel-shaped sucking candies.
candles, fire-hazard-wise, is outside.
again when you pull it off, if there’s any
You’d think there would be lollies,
hair there.
though.
7
12
Lubavitch holds it should also be up on a huge Menorah so the whole neighborhood can keep an eye on it.
2
If you are lighting inside, and all the tables in your house are made
Your wife lights candles every Friday night no problem, but you
can’t light for 8 nights of the year without this turning into a whole thing?
table in foil, followed by a layer of cute
Syrian-Greek, don’t make a big
deal about Chanukah at the office. Despite them making a big deal about their holidays.
of a material that can catch fire, the best thing to do is to cover an entire
If any of your coworkers are
8
If somebody doesn’t help Bubby carry in the presents from the back
placemats that your kids made in
room, she’s going to get tackled by
school.
kids on the way in.
3 4
9
13
Don’t schedule a doctor’s appointment for Chanukah, or
the doctor will develop serious opinions about your eating habits.
Foil foil foil! Even the coins should be covered in foil.
Do not try to put a toy together
“Why is your skin glistening?” “Oh,
yourself. If it says, “Assembly
that? My kids spilled a gallon of oil.”
required,” it means you’re going to
Before lighting Chanukah candles,
need to hold an assembly to figure out
make sure your home has a
how to put it together.
working fire extinguisher. If you’re not sure if your fire extinguisher works, use it once as a joke.
10
Whoever decided that the letters on the dreidel should
be the same color as the dreidel has
5
14 15
When you’re frying oily foods, make sure to wear shoes. If you spill oil on the floor, put up a yellow sign that shows
someone slipping, so people have
Kids using candles instead of oil is
obviously never tried to play dreidel by
something to grab on the way down.
less about the pretty colors of the
candlelight. (“Is that a nun or a
That spot on the floor will be slippery
candles that last 20 minutes and more
gimmel?” “You’re asking ME? I can’t
forever until you spill something sticky
about how we don’t want little kids
even tell with the lights on!”)
to balance it out.
11
16
pouring giant bottles of oil into tiny cups.
6
If, while you’re holding the candle, some wax drips on you, don’t
There is no bigger choking hazard than a dreidel. Actually,
that’s not accurate. There are no big
That said, dropping a jelly doughnut is okay, because the
jelly will help counteract the oil.
shriek and throw it across the room. In
choking hazards. If it’s big, it’s not a
Doughnuts are magic anyway, because
fact, some people have wax poured
choking hazard. Point is, dreidels are a
they don’t have a five-second rule. If
onto them on purpose, and it only
choking hazard, which is why there are
you dropped a doughnut 8 days ago,
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HUMOR it’s still okay to eat. Such is the neis of
all eating together, the party is going
Chanukah.
to be extra stressful, because you just know everyone’s going to bring their
17
The best way to cut through
it with dish soap, which we’re pretty sure is also slippery. And then to hose the whole thing down with water. You don’t actually have to eat
that a little bit of oil can go a long way. Whereas our philosophy is, “Kal
is to peer across the top of it and see if everything is out of focus.
26
33
If you’re leaving the house while the candles are still lit,
make sure to put them out, as if the
Try to eat at least something healthy over Chanukah, such
as apple sauce, jelly, or dark chocolate.
If you want to serve something healthy at your party, you can
serve Greek salad. If you’re not sure
candles aren’t safer with everyone out
what’s in a Greek salad, just start
of the house than with everyone in the
throwing things in that you think are
house.
Greek – yogurt, baklava, bed sheets – and if someone says, “Why is this in
27
Your neighbors’ pirsumei nisa
here?” you can say, “It’s Greek!” and
notwithstanding, keep your
no one will question it. Who’s going to
eyes on the road.
vachomer a lot of oil...”
28
Don’t schedule more than 8 Chanukah parties for yourself.
It goes: mother’s side, father’s side, mother’s mother’s side, mother’s father’s side, father’s mother’s side,
20 21
Sterno is still lit. Your best bet
kids with them.
oil all 8 days of Chanukah. In
fact, the moral of the Chanukah story is
19
There’s no good way to tell if a
spilled oil, they say (if you
don’t have jelly doughnuts), is to clean
18
32
argue with you? How many Greeks are you having at your party, exactly?
34
If your Syrian-Greek coworker shows up and tries to stop the
party, you can finally put the fire extinguisher to use to fend him off.
There is no such thing as
father’s father’s side, shul party, and
“light sour cream.”
“Oh no it’s the 8th night and we
In all seriousness, though, Chanukah
haven’t played dreidel with the kids
safety is a serious matter, as opposed
yet.”
to, say, Purim, when Chanukah safety is
Before you eat a latke, make sure to dab it with a paper
towel so no one will want to sit next to
not a serious matter. At that point
are newspaper, kitty litter, and, in my
29
post allergen signs that say things like,
experience, Shabbos shirts.
But these safety guidelines apply any
“There are no nuts in the doughnuts.”
time, really, such as when you’re frying
Unless you decided to make a peanut-
latkes for another holiday when latkes
butter-and-jelly doughnut, which
are a really good idea, such as Pesach.
probably sounds worse than it is.
So make sure that, in any case, you
you. The best materials to absorb oil
22
If frying latkes keep setting off the smoke alarm, move the
alarm to somewhere with less smoke, such as the fireplace.
23 24
Fact: There is no good way to wash a food processor. If something catches fire, make sure to remember the
three steps: Stop, Drop, and Roll. (“Yuck! What are you doing to the latkes?” “They caught fire!”)
25
30
If you’re making food for a
we’re more focused on Purim safety.
Chanukah party, make sure to
(We have very short attention spans.)
take all the proper precautions to If you’re having bagels at your
make sure that Chanukah is as happy
party, you run the risk of
as can be. But not so happy that you
people cutting themselves while trying
have to worry about Purim safety.
to get the bagels open. To prevent this, put out only plastic knives.
31
Have a happy and… well, not healthy… Chanukah!
Chanukah games, such as “Pin the Candle on the
Menorah” are fun and all, but before you blindfold a child and hand him a
If you’re having a huge family
pin, make sure all the onlookers have
Chanukah party, make sure
had their tetanus shots. (On a side
everyone lights where they sleep. If
note, this game doesn’t exactly teach
they light where they eat, and they’re
the importance of fire safety.)
Mordechai Schmutter is a freelance writer and a humor columnist for Hamodia, COLlive.com and other publications. He also has six books out and does stand-up comedy. He can be contacted at mschmutter@gmail.com
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some have well guarded trade secrets we just call them family traditions
HERZOG LINEAGE nine generations of patient winemaking