Jewish Community Voice

Community to gather in support of Israel

By Voice staff — 12/31/2008

Madoff scandal rocks the Jewish philanthropic world

By JACOB BERKMAN, JTA (The Voice staff contributed to this story) — 12/31/2008

NEW YORK— The securities fraud of Bernard Madoff has rocked the Jewish nonprofit world. Madoff, the founder of Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC, was arrested Dec. 11 after admitting to his board that a hedge fund he ran was essentially a $50 billion Ponzi scheme.

Local religious groups come together to support Israel at 60

By DAVID PORTNOE Voice staff — 12/31/2008

Quresh Dahodwala first came up with the idea of having local faith communities issue proclamations in honor of Israel's 60th anniversary several months ago, but it was the recent terrorist attacks in Mumbai, India that got him to put the idea into action.

Israel hits Hamas to halt rockets

12/31/2008

As the Voice was going to press, Israel launched air strikes against Hamas military positions in Gaza. The attacks were in response to Hamas rockets directed against Israel's southern cities. The photo shows IDF soldiers after their return from an operation against Palestinian militants in Gaza. The photo was taken prior to a recent truce with Hamas. Photo: BPH Images.

'It's not easy being brilliant,' says Voorhees teen in search of right school

By HARRIET KESSLER Voice staff — 12/31/2008

Regardless of whether they're intellectually challenged or gifted, kids who are different "suffer when their needs aren't met," according to Jeffrey Kessler. And he should know. One of two New Jersey students recognized by Johns Hopkins University with its Spatial Ability Award, the 13- year-old has spent much of his young life seeking schools that meet his needs.

Pre b'nai mitzvah Beth El kids cook up a mitzvah in Camden

12/31/2008

In preparation for their b'nai mitzvah, five Cong. Beth El seventh graders do a mitzvah by cooking dinner at the Ronald McDonald House in Camden. A chicken dinner complete with pasta, salad, broccoli and brownies for dessert was prepared by (from left), Benny Breslau, Andrew Shapiro, Zoe Schlessel, Maia Silver, and Seth Gross (foreground). The students also toured the House and spoke with several of the families staying there.

TALK TO US…

12/31/2008

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JFCS to host free 'Mortgage 9-1-1' seminar

12/31/2008

The new JFCS Samson Family Assistance Program will kick off its schedule of workshops with a free seminar, "Mortgage 9-1-1," on Wednesday, Jan. 14 from 7-9 p.m. at the Weinberg Jewish Community Campus.

Katz JCC will mount free Experience Expo

12/31/2008

The Katz JCC will host a free Experience Expo at its Springdale and Kresson Rd. building on Sunday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Everything you ever wanted to know about Jewish pleasure…

By TOVAH FREEDMANKURLANSIK For the Voice — 12/31/2008

The audience had come to the Cherry Hill Public Library to find out about "pleasure." Rabbi Yerachmiel Milstein did not disappoint. Speaking at a post-Shabbat Melava Malka, the noted scholar spoke about "The Jewish Pleasure Principle" with a mix of passion and humor.

West Bank population up

12/31/2008

The population growth of West Bank Jews was three times higher than in all of Israel, according to a new report. The Jewish population in the West Bank grew by 107 percent during the past 12 years, according to a statistical annual report conducted by the Ariel University Center of Samaria.

Great cantors sing at Sons of Israel

12/31/2008

The "West Side Café" at Cong. Sons of Israel will show a film on "The Golden Age of Cantors" on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 7:30 p.m. The evening will be hosted by Cantor Isaac Horowitz and will feature the world renowned cantors of the past, including Yosselle Rosenblatt, Moishe Oysher, Labele Waldman, and Shmuel Malavsky.

Vodka Latke ups Jewish Federation Annual Campaign coffers

12/31/2008

Over 200 people joined in the festivities of Young Adult Division's (YAD) recent fifth Annual Vodka Latke & Tzedakah event. Held on the Weinberg Jewish Community Campus, the evening featured lavish hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and dancing.

'Asher Lev' at Arden Theatre

12/31/2008

Arden Theatre Company presents the world premiere of "My Name is Asher Lev" from Jan. 8 through Mar. 15, 2009. Based on the book by Chaim Potok and adapted and directed by Aaron Posner, this is the first play commissioned by the Arden to receive its world premiere at the theater. The Arden is located at 40 N. 2nd St., Old City Philadelphia.

Maccabiah Games to be televised

12/31/2008

Jewish Life TV will broadcast the 18th World Maccabiah Games in the United States direct from Israel in July. This marks the first time in history that the Maccabiah Games will be broadcast live outside of Israel. The 18th World Maccabiah will feature 8,000 athletes from around the world.

TBS enjoys Night in Nashville

12/31/2008

More than 300 people enjoyed a recent evening of authentic Nashville cuisine, line dancing with Betsy Fischer and a concert of blues, rock and Jewish soul by TBS's own Cantor Jen Cohen and her band. Celebrants at TBS included (from left), Jeff and Sandy Brown, Night in Nashville chairs, "The King" himself, Cantor Jen Cohen and Rabbi Steven Lindemann.

Memories, appreciation mark JFCS Émigré Tribute Brunch

12/31/2008

The recent Émigré Tribute Brunch hosted by Samost Jewish Family and Children's Service at the Weinberg Jewish Community Campus was filled with touching tributes, music, dancing, and a sense of shared pride and accomplishment.

Billig takes JAG tournament

12/31/2008

Steve Billig took the recent Jewish Athletic Group (JAG) Racquetball Tournament by beating Jerry Janove in the final round of the playoffs. Six synagogues were represented in the annual event. Making the playoffs were (from left), Phil Edelstein, Adath Emanu-El; Howard Cetel, Temple Beth Sholom; Steve Billig, Temple Emanuel; and Jerry Janove, Cong. M'kor Shalom.

Making Waves

12/31/2008

DR. YAAKOV BAGLEY, of Cherry Hill, recently volunteered his dental services for needy children in Israel. At the DVI Clinic in Jerusalem (Dental Volunteers for Israel) he cared for up to 10 children a day, treating problems most American dentists never see. The clinic treats children from every religious and ethnic background.

Corzine signs pro-Israel laws

12/31/2008

TRENTON—Gov. Jon S. Corzine signed into law legislation honoring Israel, including plans to make permanent the New Jersey-Israel Commission and to commemorate Israel's 60th anniversary. The New Jersey-Israel Commission was established in 1988 to honor Israel's 40th anniversary and promote trade, science and technology, tourism and cultural and economic exchanges.

Beth El, TBS present AIPAC

12/31/2008

Cong. Beth El and Temple Beth Sholom will present a program by AIPAC (The America- Israel Public Affairs Committee) on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m. "The New Political Landscape and its Impact on U.S.-Israel Relations" will take place at TBS, 1901 Kresson Rd., Cherry Hill.

Dreidels galore at Emanuel

12/31/2008

Temple Emanuel recently attempted to reclaim the record for the most dreidels spinning at one time. Going for the Guinness Book of World Records mark were (from left), Carly Wolinsky, Gabriella Payne, Molly Greenblatt, Samantha Spirt and Vanessa Bein. Although the record was not broken, it turns out that Emanuel never lost the record. According to Guinness, Emanuel still holds the record because attempts by the Universities of Maryland and Michigan were not verified.

Immigration drops 16% in past year

12/31/2008

Some 16,500 Jews from around the world have made aliyah in 2008, a 16 percent drop from the previous year. The 6,100 immigrants from the former Soviet Union account for 35 percent of the olim. Some 3,250 of the immigrants came from Western Europe, or 20 percent, with 3,150 from the United States and Canada, or 19 percent.

Ancient coins found in Jerusalem

12/31/2008

A cache of ancient gold coins was discovered at a Jerusalem archeological site. More than 250 coins, thought to be 1,300 years old, were found in the excavations at the Givati car park in the City of David. Archeological excavations under the auspices of the Israel Antiquities Authority began in the area two years ago.

World must prepare for a nuclear Iran, say some Middle East policy analysts

By RON KAMPEAS JTA — 12/31/2008

WASHINGTON—Get ready for a nuclear Iran, but don't concede it. That's a view emerging from the conservative end of the spectrum of Middle East policy thinkers here at a time when the pro-Israel community is grappling with how to deal with the issue between presidential administrations.

Shoe thrower offered bride

12/31/2008

A Palestinian patriarch offered a bride to the Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President Bush. Ahmad Salim Judeh, whose clan is based in the West Bank town of Nablus, said Muntadar al-Zeidi could have one of the clan's daughters as his bride if he so wished, the Associated Press reported. Judeh, 75, also offered $30,000 toward al-Zeidi's defense.

Voters submit YouTube queries

12/31/2008

Israeli voters will be able to ask candidates for national elections questions via YouTube. The initiative, spearheaded by Israel's Channel 2, is similar to interactive initiatives from the U.S. presidential campaign. Internet users can upload a 25- second video with a question for a candidate, the Israeli daily Ha'aretz reported.

Syria wants Galilee access

12/31/2008

A Syrian draft document delineating the borders of the Golan Heights would put Syria on the banks of the Sea of Galilee. Syria is waiting for Israel's response through Turkish mediators to a document defining the boundaries of the Golan Heights for the purpose of peace talks, Reuters reported, citing sources familiar with the negotiations.

PJ Library spaces filled; additional funding sought

By the Federation Dept. of Jewish Education — 12/31/2008

More than 250 area families have enrolled their young children in the Jewish Federation's new PJ Library program, according to Penina Hoffnung, Director of Federation's Department of Jewish Education and Continuity (DJE). With more than 20 families already on a waiting list, donors are being sought to support PJ Library for 2009 and beyond.

Thirsty do-gooders at JCF event

12/31/2008

Jeff Klein, JCF executive director, welcomes a group of 40 local businesspeople to Flying Fish Brewing Co. in Cherry Hill, for an evening arranged by the JCF's Professional Advisory Committee which included a brewery tour, beer sampling, networking, and a mitzvah project—donation of used sneakers for recycing into athletic courts by Nike.

Local Jewish teen athletes, artists wanted for JCC Maccabi Games

12/31/2008

Calling all athletes and aspiring artists to take part in this year's South Jersey JCC Maccabi experience. Local Jewish teens between the ages of 13 and18 with passion for sports and the arts are encouraged to apply for The JCC Maccabi Games and the JCC Maccabi ArtsFest.

JCC plans new Sports Award event

12/31/2008

Planning for the JCC's first Sports Award Dinner are (from left), Jeff Brown, chair, Keith Dunoff, "Finley" the Rivershark's mascot, Jay Kopelson, and Rich Silpe.

Widows & widowers get together

12/31/2008

JFCS geriatric social worker Lisa Silverman leads a support group for widows and widowers that gives them the opportunity to share experiences and gain strength from one another. The next support group at JFCS will begin on Tues, Jan. 27, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. Registration is $36. Contact Lisa Silverman at 424-1333.

New Lion of Judah Chair to Host Brunch

By Federation Marketing Dept. — 12/31/2008

When you think of a "lion" what comes to mind? For many, it's pride, courage, strength and power. Lions also reflect the spirit of life and people are often drawn to them by their mysterious aura. This representation is a fitting symbol of an extraordinary group of women philanthropists known locally, nationally and worldwide as Lions of Judah.

Being with Other Jews Makes Me Feel Connected

By ILLANAH RESPES Jewish Federation Marketing — 12/31/2008

A senior at Cherry Hill High School East, Ariana Kalkstein's bubbly and outgoing personality is one that's hard to miss. Every moment of her day is spent educating herself or someone else, staying physically active or volunteering her time.

Neo-Nazis disrupt Budapest Chanukah

12/31/2008

Neo-Nazi protesters disrupted a Chanukah celebration in Budapest. Members of the Hungarian Guard shouted antisemitic epithets in the middle of Heroes Square, not far from where several hundred mostly young people lit torches to celebrate the holiday.

Guilty plea in Al Manar case

12/31/2008

The owner of a satellite television company pleaded guilty to aiding Hezbollah by broadcasting the terrorist group's Al-Manar station. Javed Iqbal of New York entered his plea in Manhattan federal court to charges of providing material aid to a terrorist organization, according to news reports.

Yoffie floats idea of shul mergers

12/31/2008

The leader of the Reform movement suggested that cash-strapped synagogues could merge with Conservative congregations. Rabbi Eric Yoffie, in a speech to the Union for Reform Judaism trustees in Tampa, Fla., made several suggestions about how the movement could deal with the current financial crisis.

iPhone offering digital siddur

12/31/2008

A new digital prayer book is available for Apple's popular iPhone. The siddur, created by the Internet company RustyBrick, offers prayer texts in several versions as well as a feature to determine appropriate prayer times based on location. A built-in database helps users locate the nearest minyan. Downloadable through the iTunes application, the siddur costs $9.99.

Bush pardons Israeli war hero

12/31/2008

A posthumous pardon was granted to a man who provided planes and weapons to Israel's armed forces during its 1948 War of Independence. Charles Winters, a Protestant from Miami who died in 1984 and was buried in Israel, served 18 months in prison for violating the Neutrality Act, which prevents U.S.

B'nai Mitzvah:

12/31/2008

B'nai Mitzvah: ADATH EMANU-EL JESSE PELLEN, son of Stacey Seligman and James Pellin, on Dec. 6. ZACHARY WISHNEFSKY, son of Gary and Heather Wishnefsky, on Dec. 20. BRIAN FRIEDMAN, son of Ronnie and Vicki Friedman, on Dec. 20.

Rabbi Nathan Kaber, led Altoona synagogue

12/31/2008

Rabbi Nathan Kaber, a longtime rabbi in Altoona, PA, and a beloved resident of the Bernard Dubin House, died on Dec. 26. He was 95. Rabbi Kaber, the father of Jewish Federation of Southern New Jersey CEO Joel Kaber, served Temple Beth Israel of Altoona for 31 years.

DEATH NOTICES

12/31/2008

SYLVIA (nee Portman) ALPER, of Marlton, died on Dec. 13. Wife of the late Herbert Martin. Mother of Andrea (Jeffrey) Saper, Steven (Carri) Alper and Jeffrey (Valerie) Alper. Sister of Sydney (Loretta) Portman. Grandmother of six. Contributions to be made to Jewish Family and Children's Service, 1301 Springdale Rd., Cherry Hill, NJ 08003.

Events

12/31/2008

SATURDAY, JANUARY 3 TEMPLE EMANUEL Shabbat Morning Torah Study will meet every week at 9:15 a.m. Call 489-0029 for details. CONG. M'KOR SHALOM Rabbi Barry L. Schwartz leads a Sabbath morning study every week in January from 9:45-11:15 a.m. entitled "Vignettes of the American Jewish Experience from Post World War II to the Present.

Events

12/31/2008

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Mosaic Outdoor Club of Phila. First Night celebrations in Ocean City at 4 p.m. and culminating with fireworks at midnight. Bring a picnic dinner. The group will carpool at 1:30 p.m.

Camp Guide

12/31/2008

GREAT TIMES DAY CAMP Director: Mike Kernan www.greattimesdaycamp.com Info@greattimesdaycamp.com Great Times Day Camp is South Jersey's perfect answer to your summer childcare needs. Our staff is made up of state certified teachers who provide a safe and caring environment for our campers.

Events

12/31/2008

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31 CONG. M'KOR SHALOM Chaverim, our new social group for families with schoolaged children, sponsors a Family New Year's Eve Party and Game Night from 7:30- 11:30 p.m. Call 424-4220 for details.

Business ethics are vital for individuals, community

12/31/2008

As hard as it may be to look for the silver lining in the Bernard Madoff scandal, two important lessons spring to mind as the Jewish community contemplates the $50-billion Madoff may have lost or stolen. These lessons will not cushion the blow for the many charities and individuals who were hit hard, but they will help the Jewish community going forward.

DRY BONES…

12/31/2008

Livni is that rare politician—who tells the truth

NECHEMIA MEYERS — 12/31/2008

REHOVOT, ISRAEL— Kadima has now drawn even with the Likud in some recent polls despite the fact that Kadima leader Tzipi Livni has the unnerving habit of telling the truth, even when her views do not coincide with those of most Israelis.

'Gathering Sparks: The art of Siona Benjamin'

By FRED B. ADELSON For the Voice — 12/31/2008

Before the Nov. 26 terrorist attack at Nariman House in Mumbai, who knew there were Jews in India? For those who didn't, Mumbai has been home to a historically significant Jewish community called Bene Israel ("sons of Israel"), whose origin may date back to the days of King Solomon.

'All work & no play' not for this gang: Every family needs some fun

CHARLIE KALECH — 12/31/2008

I've been working a lot lately. I shouldn't complain, not in the current economic climate, but the late nights, back-toback meetings and constant phone calls can be overwhelming. My oldest sons have also taken on a lot since school began a few months ago.

The rebbitzin's recipes: Pareve foods make the culinary cut

DEBI EPSTEIN — 12/31/2008

Keeping a kosher home requires the separation of meat and dairy. In addition to keeping foods separate, a person who observes the laws of kashrut also maintains separate dishes, pots, pans, and cutlery. There is a third category of foods known as "pareve.

New Jewish cookbooks can help see you through the cold of winter

12/31/2008

The coldest days of winter are upon us. This is a great time to turn on the oven and cook up something warm and comforting. Fortunately, a wide selection of new and classic Jewish cookbooks provides plenty of new recipes to entice you into the kitchen.

Memories of a little boy, young families, and dreams of long ago

12/31/2008

His dark blonde hair was always falling into his face. It made me smile whenever I saw him. He was earnest, even intense, at five years old. Donald, the little boy who lived next door to us in our first house, wound his way around my heart from the moment I met him.

Language is powerful; we can choose to hurt or heal

RABBI AARON KRUPNICK Congregation Beth El — 12/31/2008

Va-Yigash Gen. 44:18-47:27 Six little words can speak volumes: " Nothing to fear but fear itself"… Franklin Roosevelt said that. " To bind up the nation's wounds"… With those words President Lincoln, at his second inaugural, calmed a war-torn nation nearing the end of the Civil War.

Candlelighting

12/31/2008